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The Casual Rule #1
The Casual Rule
Julia Conti is living the dream in New York City. She has a job she loves in publishing and shares an apartment in the Village with her lifelong best friend, Allie. Following a bad break-up, Julia swears off of men and relationships, until she meets Ben Martin, an up and coming author who is smart, sexy and very easy on the eyes. Fueled by their mutual attraction, close working relationship and fear of relationships, Julia and Ben embark on a purely physical affair, following the Casual Rule. As they bring each other further into their lives, their casual status blurs. Can she keep sex and love separate or will feelings take hold and Julia get her heart broken again?
A little sweet, a little smutty, a little snarky.
Recommended for readers 18+ due to sexual references and sex scenes
**CAN BE READ AS A STANDALONE***
A little sweet, a little smutty, a little snarky.
Recommended for readers 18+ due to sexual references and sex scenes
**CAN BE READ AS A STANDALONE***
266 pages, ebook
First published May 14, 2014
173 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
About the author
A.C. Netzel
7 books152 followersSmart, Steamy, Snarky... Romance.
AC Netzel fills her stories with smart, steamy, snarky romance. She writes romantic comedies and contemporary romances that transport readers into stories filled with clever banter, heartwarming moments, laughter, and sizzling chemistry.
AC is a wife and mother who has an unhealthy obsession with her grandpup, Cooper, the best boy in the world. She and her husband live at the Jersey Shore, where she uses the beach as her seasonal office and the seagulls as her nosy coworkers who steal her food.
Here's how to find me:
My Blog: http://www.acnetzel.com
Facebook (to friend me):http://tinyurl.com/ou5urcq
Facebook: Author AC Netzel(to like my author page): http://tinyurl.com/on8mzkm
Instagram: https://instagram.com/acnetzel/
Amazon store: https://www.amazon.com/author/acnetzel
Email: acnetzel@gmail.com
AC Netzel fills her stories with smart, steamy, snarky romance. She writes romantic comedies and contemporary romances that transport readers into stories filled with clever banter, heartwarming moments, laughter, and sizzling chemistry.
AC is a wife and mother who has an unhealthy obsession with her grandpup, Cooper, the best boy in the world. She and her husband live at the Jersey Shore, where she uses the beach as her seasonal office and the seagulls as her nosy coworkers who steal her food.
Here's how to find me:
My Blog: http://www.acnetzel.com
Facebook (to friend me):http://tinyurl.com/ou5urcq
Facebook: Author AC Netzel(to like my author page): http://tinyurl.com/on8mzkm
Instagram: https://instagram.com/acnetzel/
Amazon store: https://www.amazon.com/author/acnetzel
Email: acnetzel@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
May 27, 2015
"Who said anything about a relationship? We can keep it casual. See each other when we want. No expectations. No strings. I have friends who were in committed relationships. They came out of it hating each other. It doesn’t have to be that way. When we’re done, we stay friends. No hard feelings. We’ll just have a good time, on our own terms, make our own rules."
This book was a complete surprise. It's funny without being over the top silly, steamy without taking anything away from the actual story and even though the attraction between Julia and Ben is instantaneous, it's by no means an insta-love story. The banter between characters and the flow of the story was so well done that I absolutely cannot believe this is the author's first book. I was in the mood for a solid CR read and that's exactly what I got.
This story doesn't end on a cliffy, thank you sweet baby Jesus, but their story does continue in the next book and I can't wait!
This book was a complete surprise. It's funny without being over the top silly, steamy without taking anything away from the actual story and even though the attraction between Julia and Ben is instantaneous, it's by no means an insta-love story. The banter between characters and the flow of the story was so well done that I absolutely cannot believe this is the author's first book. I was in the mood for a solid CR read and that's exactly what I got.
This story doesn't end on a cliffy, thank you sweet baby Jesus, but their story does continue in the next book and I can't wait!
September 22, 2015
4.5 Stars
I've been so lucky lately to stumble across new-ish self pubbed authors that end up blowing me away. This is a full length novel. It's funny, it's emotional, it's super sexy, and it was completely unexpected. It's a little angsty, a little dramatic, a little sad, a lot of happy, and really fantastic all the way around.
We go from a zany and unexpected first meeting to a last minute surprise dinner to loads of sexual tension at the office to meeting the goofy and/or neurotic family. There was a lot stuffed into this one book, and it all worked perfectly. Will definitely follow this author around and see what she can give us next!!
I've been so lucky lately to stumble across new-ish self pubbed authors that end up blowing me away. This is a full length novel. It's funny, it's emotional, it's super sexy, and it was completely unexpected. It's a little angsty, a little dramatic, a little sad, a lot of happy, and really fantastic all the way around.
We go from a zany and unexpected first meeting to a last minute surprise dinner to loads of sexual tension at the office to meeting the goofy and/or neurotic family. There was a lot stuffed into this one book, and it all worked perfectly. Will definitely follow this author around and see what she can give us next!!
November 18, 2014
4 - 4.5 sweet and romantic stars.
This was such a great surprise. A really sweet, romantic and witty story sizzling with great chemistry and some really hot smut.
A fuck buddies to lovers story, their romance felt genuine and gave me happy tingles. This would be a perfect book to lift you out of a book funk. It's easy to read, with likeable characters who feel 'real', just the right amount of angst and not too much drama. I curled up to read this on a rainy Saturday afternoon and I was enjoying it so much that I continued reading it on my phone under the table when we went out later.
Yes, I am that exciting. *shrugs*
Julia, an assistant editor living in New York, has just come out of a toxic relationship with a jerk(who's subsequently known as 'Mikehole') and has sworn off relationships. Her room mate dares her to flirt with a hot guy they see in the park so she goes for it but makes a bit of a tit of herself. Then the next day at work she's assigned to meet with a new author. And of course the author is THAT guy...
They quickly find they're on the same page about relationships and decide to be fuck buddies.
That's when the plentiful smut comes in. Nice.
There are no real surprises with where the story goes, but the slow burn love story in this felt so real, with some lovely, sweet moments that had me, a proper cynic, swooning away.
Julia is lively, intelligent, witty and sexy and as this is narrated in first person from her pov, I felt really close to the action. Ben was harder to read at first, he came over as a little arrogant, in spite of his hotness, but as the story went on and I got to know him, I loved him. The scenes with Julia's family on Christmas eve were laugh out loud funny, but so tender too. It gave me the warm and fuzzies.
This is a lovely, feel good, complete story with no cliffhanger. Highly recommended.
This was such a great surprise. A really sweet, romantic and witty story sizzling with great chemistry and some really hot smut.
A fuck buddies to lovers story, their romance felt genuine and gave me happy tingles. This would be a perfect book to lift you out of a book funk. It's easy to read, with likeable characters who feel 'real', just the right amount of angst and not too much drama. I curled up to read this on a rainy Saturday afternoon and I was enjoying it so much that I continued reading it on my phone under the table when we went out later.
Yes, I am that exciting. *shrugs*
Julia, an assistant editor living in New York, has just come out of a toxic relationship with a jerk(who's subsequently known as 'Mikehole') and has sworn off relationships. Her room mate dares her to flirt with a hot guy they see in the park so she goes for it but makes a bit of a tit of herself. Then the next day at work she's assigned to meet with a new author. And of course the author is THAT guy...
They quickly find they're on the same page about relationships and decide to be fuck buddies.
That's when the plentiful smut comes in. Nice.
There are no real surprises with where the story goes, but the slow burn love story in this felt so real, with some lovely, sweet moments that had me, a proper cynic, swooning away.
Julia is lively, intelligent, witty and sexy and as this is narrated in first person from her pov, I felt really close to the action. Ben was harder to read at first, he came over as a little arrogant, in spite of his hotness, but as the story went on and I got to know him, I loved him. The scenes with Julia's family on Christmas eve were laugh out loud funny, but so tender too. It gave me the warm and fuzzies.
This is a lovely, feel good, complete story with no cliffhanger. Highly recommended.
Read
December 31, 2024An up-and-coming Editor. A ridiculously HOT Author. A steamy, funny, Friends-with-Benefits romance.
Funny, sweet, steamy, sexy, and totally captivating with characters you could feel. Hordes of Hopeless Romantics will love the way this story unfolds.
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry… you’ll fall in love with Julia & Ben.
An up-and-coming Editor
A ridiculously hot Author
An attraction that can’t be ignored.
Crazy best friend.
Loud Italian Family.
Witty banter.
Clingy Ex.
Friends with Benefits.
Heart rendering, steamy, romance bursting with the feels.
And love.
So much love.
#FREE #friendswithbenefits #FWB #contemporaryromance #contemporaryromancereads #freekindlebooks #freeromancereads #freeromance #booksthatmakeyoucry #booksthatmakeyoulaugh #KindleUnlimited #KU #commitmentphobe #bookstagram #romancebookrecs #spicyromance #steamyromance #booksta #booktok #damagedhero #christmasromance #bigitalianfamily
http://mybook.at/TheCasualRule
It’s got everything…
Snarky girl, Sexy guy, friends-with-benefits, love, lust, the best of best friends, two very different families, real-life funny, sweet, emotional, angsty, swoony romantic… and s-t-e-a-m-y.
The Casual Rule is the first of a series, but can be read as a standalone.
.
There are no cliffhangers.
Just love.
So much love.
.
So get clicking…RIGHT HERE: Getbook.at/TheCasualRule
.
5***** Review: Funny, sweet, sexy, and totally captivating with characters you could feel. There are hordes of hopeless romantics who will love the way this story unfolds.
The Casual Rule by AC Netzel
(Can be read as a standalone)
Amazon link: getbook.at/TheCasualRule
Funny, sweet, steamy, sexy, and totally captivating with characters you could feel. Hordes of Hopeless Romantics will love the way this story unfolds.
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry… you’ll fall in love with Julia & Ben.
An up-and-coming Editor
A ridiculously hot Author
An attraction that can’t be ignored.
Crazy best friend.
Loud Italian Family.
Witty banter.
Clingy Ex.
Friends with Benefits.
Heart rendering, steamy, romance bursting with the feels.
And love.
So much love.
#FREE #friendswithbenefits #FWB #contemporaryromance #contemporaryromancereads #freekindlebooks #freeromancereads #freeromance #booksthatmakeyoucry #booksthatmakeyoulaugh #KindleUnlimited #KU #commitmentphobe #bookstagram #romancebookrecs #spicyromance #steamyromance #booksta #booktok #damagedhero #christmasromance #bigitalianfamily
http://mybook.at/TheCasualRule
It’s got everything…
Snarky girl, Sexy guy, friends-with-benefits, love, lust, the best of best friends, two very different families, real-life funny, sweet, emotional, angsty, swoony romantic… and s-t-e-a-m-y.
The Casual Rule is the first of a series, but can be read as a standalone.
.
There are no cliffhangers.
Just love.
So much love.
.
So get clicking…RIGHT HERE: Getbook.at/TheCasualRule
.
5***** Review: Funny, sweet, sexy, and totally captivating with characters you could feel. There are hordes of hopeless romantics who will love the way this story unfolds.
The Casual Rule by AC Netzel
(Can be read as a standalone)
Amazon link: getbook.at/TheCasualRule
May 19, 2014
Okay I am admittedly biased because I have absolutely adored this author since I read her FSOG Fan Fiction. With that being said this was an AMAZING debut novel. Laugh out loud funny, smart and well written with characters that I connected with right from the start. Julia is a smart, feisty witty female character and Ben is the perfect blend of alpha male and sensitive soul. I loved this book and I can't wait to see what the author has in store next!
November 4, 2014
Wow! This ended up in a different place than I expected. I thought I could predict the direction and I love that the author mixed it up a little at the end. Well done and I caught myself actually crying in certain parts. Like I said not at all what I was expecting. It was a solid 4 star until about 80% and that's when the story hit its stride for me. Great story!
November 9, 2022
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
When I read the blurb for THE CASUAL RULE, I figured this would be a fun book to read over the holiday weekend. I didn't expect to fall for a storyline that brought freshness to the "friends with benefits"~ish trope or to love the hero and heroine as much as I did. AC Netzel completely won me over.
Julia Conti has declared that she's done with men, after dumping her longtime boyfriend for his inability to remain faithful to her. But her best friend Allie challenges her declaration in the form of a dare, which Julia can't ignore. It's that dare (and a spectacular set of abs) that introduce Julia to Ben Martin.
Ben doesn't do commitment. Julia's convinced herself she doesn't want commitment. So the two of them enter into an arrangement of just sex until they don't want sex any longer and then they'll be just friends. As hot as these two were with each other, you just knew their relationship wasn't going to go like either of them planned on it going.
There was much to love about both of these characters. They were both very down to earth and were written in a way that made me want to run out and find them so we could be friends. No matter what they said or did, I find myself forgiving whatever their transgression was. Their chemistry was such a tangible thing that you wanted them to have a HEA and stop with their stupid arrangement.
THE CASUAL RULE doesn't end with a cliffhanger, but definitely sets up the next book in the series (which is out now). I was so in love with these characters (the secondary characters were just awesome) that I immediately one-clicked the next book. If you're looking for something fun, with a couple that is hard not to love, definitely pick this one up. I highly recommend it.
When I read the blurb for THE CASUAL RULE, I figured this would be a fun book to read over the holiday weekend. I didn't expect to fall for a storyline that brought freshness to the "friends with benefits"~ish trope or to love the hero and heroine as much as I did. AC Netzel completely won me over.
Julia Conti has declared that she's done with men, after dumping her longtime boyfriend for his inability to remain faithful to her. But her best friend Allie challenges her declaration in the form of a dare, which Julia can't ignore. It's that dare (and a spectacular set of abs) that introduce Julia to Ben Martin.
Ben doesn't do commitment. Julia's convinced herself she doesn't want commitment. So the two of them enter into an arrangement of just sex until they don't want sex any longer and then they'll be just friends. As hot as these two were with each other, you just knew their relationship wasn't going to go like either of them planned on it going.
There was much to love about both of these characters. They were both very down to earth and were written in a way that made me want to run out and find them so we could be friends. No matter what they said or did, I find myself forgiving whatever their transgression was. Their chemistry was such a tangible thing that you wanted them to have a HEA and stop with their stupid arrangement.
THE CASUAL RULE doesn't end with a cliffhanger, but definitely sets up the next book in the series (which is out now). I was so in love with these characters (the secondary characters were just awesome) that I immediately one-clicked the next book. If you're looking for something fun, with a couple that is hard not to love, definitely pick this one up. I highly recommend it.
October 23, 2015
*4.5 This debut novel was a fantastic surprise! The author used humor (I was literally snorting with laughter at times) and a believable story line to put a fresh spin on the "friends with benefits" trope. I'm usually frustrated when given only one POV but I adored Julia and loved being in her head - she's snarky, sensitive and smart. I love me some great banter between characters and this book has it in spades!! The chemistry between Julia and Ben - wow!!! Also enjoyed the NYC/NJ setting - who doesn't enjoy ogling hot guys in Central Park??!! I took off half a star because, at the end, I needed a Grand Gesture AND an Epic Grovel from Ben. I felt like Julia's actions created Ben's chance for the Grand Gesture (but we don't have Ben's POV, so maybe he had "plans") but his Epic Grovel was heartfelt and real. Very cute epilogue/HEA, albeit too short, so I'm glad we'll get more of this adorable, fun and sexy couple in book two.
May 18, 2014
Julia has sworn off men after a horrible breakup until she meets Ben. She decides that she wants something different this time around. Like is never easy and love can be messy. What is constant is friends...and cupcakes. I have been a fan of AC Netzel when she wrote FSOG. She writes sexy and angst well along with cute clumsiness. I laughed, was hot n bothered and teared up before it ended. This is her first published book and I feel so proud that she's following her passion.
July 24, 2015
The Casual Rule is witty, funny, snarky, sexy, heartbreaking and oh so heartwarming.
I fell in love with Julia in the first chapter. I loved the witty and snarky comments that she and her best friend Allie exchanged. I loved the silly and just downright dirty things that they say to each other and I love that they went "sight seeing" in Central Park. I love that they are such good friends that they can be openly honest with each other even when it hurt.
"Ah, excuse me. Do you have the time?"
The dare that set things in motion with Juila and Mr. Khaki Shorts with the super sexy V that makes even the smartest woman stupid. I love that their first interaction wasn't that of the insta-love variety, but the insta-lust with a tad bit of insta-hate. That is what I really liked most about this book that everything was worked up to and not the insta-variety. After Julia resigns herself to the fact the Mr. Khaki Shorts is an ass, she goes on about her merry way...well that is until they keep running into each other. She finds out that he is actually an aspiring author, Ben Martin, whose manuscript she has been editing and now she has to work with him. She decides to keep it professional, but their attraction is just to much to deny.
Thus starting her very first casual relationship. I liked that everything keeps at that pace and that even though I know things are heating up and they are going to change I love that it happened gradually. I loved that both characters had flaws. I liked that super sexy Casual Ben is a little bit geeky. I like that Julia is a bit of a slob. I like that nothing is ever perfect...well the sexual chemistry between the two is pretty awesome. Ben made Julia feel beautiful and I really really liked that.
So of course things don't always go the way that they are planned. Julia realizes that she grew to have feelings for Ben and when he couldn't reciprocate she ended things. This is were this book really won me over. Even though Julia did not want to lose him she knew that it would not be good for her to continue seeing him. I liked that even though it crushed her she kept strong. I liked that it wasn't a rushed reunion when Ben finally came to his senses. I loved that when things are finally all aired out and in the open Ben makes some really surprising confessions.
Another thing that I really liked about this book is that even though is was told in one POV, Julia's, I still connected with Ben. I was able to sympathize and fall madly in love with him. Even though I wished there was a little glimpse into his head, I feel like the author did a fantastic job in writing his character in a way that made me love him.
This book is just so fantastically well written and I really enjoyed getting to know Ben and Julia. I will be making time to read the next book The New Rule bacause I need to know how things play out with these two characters and even with Cam-eel and Elizabitch. If you are looking for a contemporary romance with wit, snark, sex and love then you should read this book.
I fell in love with Julia in the first chapter. I loved the witty and snarky comments that she and her best friend Allie exchanged. I loved the silly and just downright dirty things that they say to each other and I love that they went "sight seeing" in Central Park. I love that they are such good friends that they can be openly honest with each other even when it hurt.
"Ah, excuse me. Do you have the time?"
The dare that set things in motion with Juila and Mr. Khaki Shorts with the super sexy V that makes even the smartest woman stupid. I love that their first interaction wasn't that of the insta-love variety, but the insta-lust with a tad bit of insta-hate. That is what I really liked most about this book that everything was worked up to and not the insta-variety. After Julia resigns herself to the fact the Mr. Khaki Shorts is an ass, she goes on about her merry way...well that is until they keep running into each other. She finds out that he is actually an aspiring author, Ben Martin, whose manuscript she has been editing and now she has to work with him. She decides to keep it professional, but their attraction is just to much to deny.
Thus starting her very first casual relationship. I liked that everything keeps at that pace and that even though I know things are heating up and they are going to change I love that it happened gradually. I loved that both characters had flaws. I liked that super sexy Casual Ben is a little bit geeky. I like that Julia is a bit of a slob. I like that nothing is ever perfect...well the sexual chemistry between the two is pretty awesome. Ben made Julia feel beautiful and I really really liked that.
So of course things don't always go the way that they are planned. Julia realizes that she grew to have feelings for Ben and when he couldn't reciprocate she ended things. This is were this book really won me over. Even though Julia did not want to lose him she knew that it would not be good for her to continue seeing him. I liked that even though it crushed her she kept strong. I liked that it wasn't a rushed reunion when Ben finally came to his senses. I loved that when things are finally all aired out and in the open Ben makes some really surprising confessions.
Another thing that I really liked about this book is that even though is was told in one POV, Julia's, I still connected with Ben. I was able to sympathize and fall madly in love with him. Even though I wished there was a little glimpse into his head, I feel like the author did a fantastic job in writing his character in a way that made me love him.
This book is just so fantastically well written and I really enjoyed getting to know Ben and Julia. I will be making time to read the next book The New Rule bacause I need to know how things play out with these two characters and even with Cam-eel and Elizabitch. If you are looking for a contemporary romance with wit, snark, sex and love then you should read this book.
June 4, 2014
The Casual Rule by AC Netzel
Julia Conti has sworn off men. Her last relationship ended badly and she isn't interested in finding a new one. She has a great job as an assistant editor for a publishing house and an awesome apartment in the Village that she shares with her best friend, Allie. She definitely doesn't need a man to make her happy.
"I know BOB would never betray my heart. He seems quite taken with me; he's hard for me all the time after all, and he lives rent free in my nightstand drawer. It's a win-win for both of us."
When Allie convinces Julia to go man-hunting at Central Park she isn't prepared for meeting heartthrob Ben Martin. She definitely isn't prepared when said heartthrob is an author whose manuscript she is editing. A "friends with benefits" arrangement is sounding very attractive all of a sudden.
"I run into my bedroom. I have to look hot. I strip off my work clothes and ransack the pile of clean clothes on my floor, or as Allie calls it, my floordrobe."
"I squeeze into my super tight skinny jeans. I have to jump up and down to shimmy them over my hips, suck in my stomach to zip them up and squat a few times to loosen up the denim. I need to lay off the cupcakes."
Neither Julia nor Ben are prepared for the instant attraction they have. Not to mention their budding feelings. Julia has obviously been burned before and Ben has some sort of commitment issue. In the meantime they have sex. A lot of steamy sex! Julia was a hilarious character. Practically every page had a laugh. She was easy to identify with and is a character you can just see yourself being friends with. Julia's family was endearing and her friends quirky. Ben was plenty sexy, although I would have liked a bit more character development with him. My only other complaint is that any sort of substance to their relationship didn't happen until the very end. But then I guess that mirrored their relationship in a way, so it worked.
"I want to be a part of your life. Everyday. I want to call you because I miss hearing your voice. I want to hold your hand and take long strolls through Central Park in the spring. I want to make out with you under the boardwalk at Seaside Heights and win you ugly crane game prizes. I want to laugh with you, cry with you... love you."
Overall, If you're looking for a light and fun romantic comedy with plenty of laughs you are sure to enjoy The Casual Rule! It would make the perfect beach read! 4 Stars!
Reviewed for Lives and Breathes Book Blog
Julia Conti has sworn off men. Her last relationship ended badly and she isn't interested in finding a new one. She has a great job as an assistant editor for a publishing house and an awesome apartment in the Village that she shares with her best friend, Allie. She definitely doesn't need a man to make her happy.
"I know BOB would never betray my heart. He seems quite taken with me; he's hard for me all the time after all, and he lives rent free in my nightstand drawer. It's a win-win for both of us."
When Allie convinces Julia to go man-hunting at Central Park she isn't prepared for meeting heartthrob Ben Martin. She definitely isn't prepared when said heartthrob is an author whose manuscript she is editing. A "friends with benefits" arrangement is sounding very attractive all of a sudden.
"I run into my bedroom. I have to look hot. I strip off my work clothes and ransack the pile of clean clothes on my floor, or as Allie calls it, my floordrobe."
"I squeeze into my super tight skinny jeans. I have to jump up and down to shimmy them over my hips, suck in my stomach to zip them up and squat a few times to loosen up the denim. I need to lay off the cupcakes."
Neither Julia nor Ben are prepared for the instant attraction they have. Not to mention their budding feelings. Julia has obviously been burned before and Ben has some sort of commitment issue. In the meantime they have sex. A lot of steamy sex! Julia was a hilarious character. Practically every page had a laugh. She was easy to identify with and is a character you can just see yourself being friends with. Julia's family was endearing and her friends quirky. Ben was plenty sexy, although I would have liked a bit more character development with him. My only other complaint is that any sort of substance to their relationship didn't happen until the very end. But then I guess that mirrored their relationship in a way, so it worked.
"I want to be a part of your life. Everyday. I want to call you because I miss hearing your voice. I want to hold your hand and take long strolls through Central Park in the spring. I want to make out with you under the boardwalk at Seaside Heights and win you ugly crane game prizes. I want to laugh with you, cry with you... love you."
Overall, If you're looking for a light and fun romantic comedy with plenty of laughs you are sure to enjoy The Casual Rule! It would make the perfect beach read! 4 Stars!
Reviewed for Lives and Breathes Book Blog
June 29, 2015
So how do you know when a book is good? Like really, really good? When you start and finish it in the same day. Yep, that totally happened! Which says a lot, considering it’s literally been months since I’ve done that. Once I got hooked into the story I just couldn’t put it down! Lately, very few books have captured my undivided attention, so it was a pleasant surprise when I started reading and was immediately drawn in.
This book had everything I could possibly want. Humor that had me laughing out loud, romantic moments that me swooning/tearing up, and some oh-so-steamy moments that had me…squirming. And all of it was executed perfectly! The writing was on point, the character development was very well done, and each scene flowed seamlessly to the next.
I absolutely loved the idea of Julia and Ben from the very beginning. Their personalities meshed so well together, and it was always more fun than serious, which I guess is what a friends with benefits deal is supposed to be. I’m not going to lie, I totally had hope that their arrangement would turn into something more. Each exchange left me all warm and tingly inside, unabashedly clinging to the possibility of “what if”. Of course I won’t spoil it for you, but let me just tell you it’s a wild ride!
Without a doubt, I HIGHLY recommend The Casual Rule. If you’re in the mood for a fun romantic comedy with a bit of smut, then look no further!
This book had everything I could possibly want. Humor that had me laughing out loud, romantic moments that me swooning/tearing up, and some oh-so-steamy moments that had me…squirming. And all of it was executed perfectly! The writing was on point, the character development was very well done, and each scene flowed seamlessly to the next.
I absolutely loved the idea of Julia and Ben from the very beginning. Their personalities meshed so well together, and it was always more fun than serious, which I guess is what a friends with benefits deal is supposed to be. I’m not going to lie, I totally had hope that their arrangement would turn into something more. Each exchange left me all warm and tingly inside, unabashedly clinging to the possibility of “what if”. Of course I won’t spoil it for you, but let me just tell you it’s a wild ride!
Without a doubt, I HIGHLY recommend The Casual Rule. If you’re in the mood for a fun romantic comedy with a bit of smut, then look no further!
October 11, 2014
LAUGH OUT LOUD FUNNY!!!
Funny...witty...hot steamy sex. The story left me feeling happy. I laughed,..cried...mostly laughed. and have I mentioned the hot sex???
There's mirror sex. I love~love~love mirror sex...
(~“Open your eyes, watch us.” I open my eyes and look into the mirror, our eyes meet, and I’m lost in his intense gaze. I feel like a voyeur in my own hedonistic life. “Do you like to watch us, Julia?” he growls through his clenched teeth.~)
Great story line, believable characters, even wacky in-laws! I loved all the NYC and Jersey Shore references too, almost like they were part of the story.
I want best friends like Allie and Julia. And can I have a Ben too? Can you pick one up at the local grocery store?
No crazy, off-the-wall situations to deal with, like in-the-air plane crashes or kidnapping... just two people dealing with love and romance, in this day and age. A modern day romance with modern day romance rules to juggle.
I haven't laughed like this since Wallbanger or Tangled. If you like books like these, then get this one!
Funny...witty...hot steamy sex. The story left me feeling happy. I laughed,..cried...mostly laughed. and have I mentioned the hot sex???
There's mirror sex. I love~love~love mirror sex...
(~“Open your eyes, watch us.” I open my eyes and look into the mirror, our eyes meet, and I’m lost in his intense gaze. I feel like a voyeur in my own hedonistic life. “Do you like to watch us, Julia?” he growls through his clenched teeth.~)
Great story line, believable characters, even wacky in-laws! I loved all the NYC and Jersey Shore references too, almost like they were part of the story.
I want best friends like Allie and Julia. And can I have a Ben too? Can you pick one up at the local grocery store?
No crazy, off-the-wall situations to deal with, like in-the-air plane crashes or kidnapping... just two people dealing with love and romance, in this day and age. A modern day romance with modern day romance rules to juggle.
I haven't laughed like this since Wallbanger or Tangled. If you like books like these, then get this one!
June 22, 2014
I absolutely loved this book! I really felt connected to Julia. This book had everything and I'm so very proud of AC. I cried and laughed and truly felt my heart on edge. Can not wait until the next!
December 4, 2014
4.5 Stars
"No strings. No expectations. No hurt feelings. This is so crazy; I think it just might work."
This book totally worked! From the very first page to the last it was pure gold. Adorable, witty, heartwarming, sweet, sexy .... I had such a fun time reading.
Julia has sworn off men after a horrible breakup but true to any good book she has a funny and supportive BFF who wont let her wallow in misery and coerces her to approach a random, very HOT stranger in Central Park.
Ben isn't looking for love either. Relationships aren't his thing but he isn't blind to the pretty woman who randomly approached him in the park. There is a mutual attraction between them and when they end up having to work together is when the magic happens. Since both Julia and Ben are on the same page about relationships it's only natural that they begin a casual yet very steamy non relationship (with lots of funny thrown in too). But as with every great non relationship feelings slowly creep in (yay for love!).
What I loved most about this book was that author AC Netzel was able to take a topic that we have all read before and turn it into something all her own. The characters felt genuine and were easily likable. As a born and raised Long Island girl myself now living in New Jersey I felt right at home with Julia and her close relationship with her Jersey family. The big Italian Christmas reminded me so much of my own family. Ben was just an all around good guy, not some unrealistic alpha male bizillionaire, but someone who you could actually meet in Central Park. The story wasn't overly angsty, it moved at a natural pace so you didnt get frustrated waiting for something to happen. It was an all-around good solid book that I highly recommend you pick up.
For an author who describes herself as an 'accidental writer', AC Netzel sure did a fantastic job. I can't wait to read more.
"I want to be a part of your life. Everyday. I want to call you because I miss hearing your voice. I want to hold your hand and take long strolls through Central Park in the spring. I want to make out with you under the boardwalk at Seaside Heights and win you ugly crane game prizes. I want to laugh with you, cry with you... love you."
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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"No strings. No expectations. No hurt feelings. This is so crazy; I think it just might work."
This book totally worked! From the very first page to the last it was pure gold. Adorable, witty, heartwarming, sweet, sexy .... I had such a fun time reading.
Julia has sworn off men after a horrible breakup but true to any good book she has a funny and supportive BFF who wont let her wallow in misery and coerces her to approach a random, very HOT stranger in Central Park.
Ben isn't looking for love either. Relationships aren't his thing but he isn't blind to the pretty woman who randomly approached him in the park. There is a mutual attraction between them and when they end up having to work together is when the magic happens. Since both Julia and Ben are on the same page about relationships it's only natural that they begin a casual yet very steamy non relationship (with lots of funny thrown in too). But as with every great non relationship feelings slowly creep in (yay for love!).
What I loved most about this book was that author AC Netzel was able to take a topic that we have all read before and turn it into something all her own. The characters felt genuine and were easily likable. As a born and raised Long Island girl myself now living in New Jersey I felt right at home with Julia and her close relationship with her Jersey family. The big Italian Christmas reminded me so much of my own family. Ben was just an all around good guy, not some unrealistic alpha male bizillionaire, but someone who you could actually meet in Central Park. The story wasn't overly angsty, it moved at a natural pace so you didnt get frustrated waiting for something to happen. It was an all-around good solid book that I highly recommend you pick up.
For an author who describes herself as an 'accidental writer', AC Netzel sure did a fantastic job. I can't wait to read more.
"I want to be a part of your life. Everyday. I want to call you because I miss hearing your voice. I want to hold your hand and take long strolls through Central Park in the spring. I want to make out with you under the boardwalk at Seaside Heights and win you ugly crane game prizes. I want to laugh with you, cry with you... love you."
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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July 28, 2014
If you're looking for a book with a little bit of smut, a little comedy and a ride on an emotional roller coaster, then pick up this book today. You will love Julia. She is incredible and I think she's one of my new favorite female characters this year. At first you'll think of her as a man hater, but you'll see her grow and change into a woman who becomes comfortable in her own skin. I love that she has depth to her and has courage to do what needs to be done to protect herself. I also really love that she has a passion for life in general. I think too many books have female characters who pressure young women to be a size two or that dieting and exercising are the ways to catch a man. Julia isn't like that. She has a health image of who she is and isn't afraid to be herself with Ben.
When you first meet Ben, he's a bit of an ass. He insults Julia's ideas for his book, yet he can't stay away from her. There's no doubt that Ben is attracted to her but he doesn't want a typical relationship with labels. While the book is told from Julia's point of view, you do get to see Ben change and grow in his thoughts about what a relationship is. What I loved most about Ben is that he wasn't afraid to show that he cared about Julia and her interests.
Overall I greatly enjoyed reading this book. I laughed, I cried, and cursed Ben several times. I may have cursed Julia too at one point. My only disappointment was how the book ended. I was hoping for a little more about where their future was headed, and I'm hoping that Ms. Netzel will write more about these two people.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official
When you first meet Ben, he's a bit of an ass. He insults Julia's ideas for his book, yet he can't stay away from her. There's no doubt that Ben is attracted to her but he doesn't want a typical relationship with labels. While the book is told from Julia's point of view, you do get to see Ben change and grow in his thoughts about what a relationship is. What I loved most about Ben is that he wasn't afraid to show that he cared about Julia and her interests.
Overall I greatly enjoyed reading this book. I laughed, I cried, and cursed Ben several times. I may have cursed Julia too at one point. My only disappointment was how the book ended. I was hoping for a little more about where their future was headed, and I'm hoping that Ms. Netzel will write more about these two people.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official
August 2, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. A lot more than I anticipated from the blurb. I would give this book 4-4.5 stars. It is a standalone book. Julia has been burned by her cheating ex. It took her so long to get over him that she has now sworn off love & relationships because she never wants to feel that pain again. Ben is a commitment phone who doesn't believe in love & only does casual relationships. Sex & fun only no feelings. When Ben & Julia find themselves meeting several times under such coincidental circumstances the attraction is undeniable on both ends. Ben proposes they enter into a casual booty call type relationship and Julia accepts thinking this is exactly what she needs right now. That is until feelings start to creep in.
Ben is crazy sexy. He does lots of sweet things. He has dirty talk down to a panty dropping science. The sex scenes are very steamy. This book will make you want a Ben, commitment phobe or not.
I highly recommend this read
Ben is crazy sexy. He does lots of sweet things. He has dirty talk down to a panty dropping science. The sex scenes are very steamy. This book will make you want a Ben, commitment phobe or not.
I highly recommend this read
June 17, 2014
The was the perfect book to pull me out of this rut I've been in. It was funny, sweet, steamy, and just overall perfection.
Julia's heart was broken by her asshole ex. She was determined not to do the boyfriend thing again. Not worth having her heart ripped out of her chest again. Then she meets Ben. Sweet, sexy Ben. He doesn't do commitment. But Julia and Ben have an undeniable attraction and decide to give a casual non-relationship a try. The sex is off-the-charts-amazing! But it's more than just sex. They relate to each other. They laugh together and genuinely enjoy each other's company. Until one day, Julia realizes that she's been lying to herself. She's not a casual fling kind of girl. And she's fallen head-over-heels in love with Ben. Now what...? :)
5+ stars! Excellent job!
Julia's heart was broken by her asshole ex. She was determined not to do the boyfriend thing again. Not worth having her heart ripped out of her chest again. Then she meets Ben. Sweet, sexy Ben. He doesn't do commitment. But Julia and Ben have an undeniable attraction and decide to give a casual non-relationship a try. The sex is off-the-charts-amazing! But it's more than just sex. They relate to each other. They laugh together and genuinely enjoy each other's company. Until one day, Julia realizes that she's been lying to herself. She's not a casual fling kind of girl. And she's fallen head-over-heels in love with Ben. Now what...? :)
5+ stars! Excellent job!
April 13, 2025
I just loved reading this book. It kept me intrigued and had to know what Ben and Julia would do next. I laughed, cried and smirked at how they toyed with each other. Sometimes the way Julia teased Ben was so funny. I just loved the fact that is is a full length novel. Well worth the money. Not really a dark romance but light and funny!
I recommend this book to anyone who likes romance.
Till next time - Sweets Books
(Written by Colleen - SBAH)
I recommend this book to anyone who likes romance.
Till next time - Sweets Books
(Written by Colleen - SBAH)
May 20, 2014
I loved it. What else is there to say, true love derived from lust. The 'I'm not looking for anyone right now' card always trumped by the queen of hearts hiding up someone's sleeve.
The book was fresh, easily read and impossible to put down. Excellent job A.C.Netzel!
I kept thinking that this is just the kind of story that would play out excellently on the big screen. Romance <3
The book was fresh, easily read and impossible to put down. Excellent job A.C.Netzel!
I kept thinking that this is just the kind of story that would play out excellently on the big screen. Romance <3
July 29, 2016
Absolutely loved this book. Beautifully written, this book had me laughing out loud one minute, then tearing up the next. Loved the characters, loved the writing - especially the snarky bits. Highly recommend.
January 14, 2015
What a great book this was! Julia is a real, believable and damn funny! I loved her thoughts, especially when it came to Ben's family. Loved Allie too; we all need a friend like her!
May 18, 2014
It made me laugh. It made me cry. I didn't put it down until I finished it. Loved it!
June 19, 2014
A fun quick read. The author does a great job with adding in the quirky - sarcasm and wit make this a fun read!! Ben is just delicious!!! Will it be happily ever after??!!!
September 6, 2014
Awesome book to read. Couldn't put it down
December 15, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It was the perfect combination of snarky, smutty and funny.
I'm really looking forward to more of Ben and Julia. Hopefully a little of Allie and Vince as well.
I'm really looking forward to more of Ben and Julia. Hopefully a little of Allie and Vince as well.
Want to read
June 24, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/15/2019)! 🎁
September 12, 2019
R
I really enjoyed how you captured how women get caught up in their heads. Men, black and white, either, or. And they can be clueless. Can't see what's right in front of their noses.
Loved the angst, joy, angst and reuniting.
Good story. 👍👍👍👍
I really enjoyed how you captured how women get caught up in their heads. Men, black and white, either, or. And they can be clueless. Can't see what's right in front of their noses.
Loved the angst, joy, angst and reuniting.
Good story. 👍👍👍👍
July 5, 2014
The Casual Rule had everything I want in a story. The characters are mature, smart, real, and hysterically funny. The author made it impossible for me not to fall in love, much like Julia. Both my cheeks were sore, one from the constant smile on my face and the other from not getting out of my seat in order to finish. Stayed up way past my bead time for this one. An excellent read!
July 24, 2014
What would you do if you had a friendly bootie call arrangement, and unintentionally fell in love? Great characters, some drama and angst, a hot guy who has a "V", and some really good sex scenes. Enjoy the ride.
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