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City Love #4
Wish List
Could the wrong man on paper be the perfect man in real life?
Cate Harmon likes lists. While this may serve her well as a financial planner, her girlfriends think that creating a checklist for her ideal man is going a step too far. But she has one, and she’s sticking to it.
Cate has always dreamed of starting a family and settling down and yet she’s the only one of her close knit friendship group still unattached. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to lower her standards.
Enter Dave, a reformed bad boy with gorgeous hair and eyes the wrong color. Dave doesn’t tick any of the boxes on Cate’s list. It’s unthinkable that she would develop feelings for him, and yet … Cate finds herself being drawn to Dave in a way she’s never felt before.
Will Cate confront the reasons behind her list? Or will she risk losing a man who could be better than any list she could ever dream up?
This romance where opposites attract is perfect for fans of Rachel Gibson, Susan Mallery, Victoria Dahl, and Susan Elizabeth Phillips.
Cate Harmon likes lists. While this may serve her well as a financial planner, her girlfriends think that creating a checklist for her ideal man is going a step too far. But she has one, and she’s sticking to it.
Cate has always dreamed of starting a family and settling down and yet she’s the only one of her close knit friendship group still unattached. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to lower her standards.
Enter Dave, a reformed bad boy with gorgeous hair and eyes the wrong color. Dave doesn’t tick any of the boxes on Cate’s list. It’s unthinkable that she would develop feelings for him, and yet … Cate finds herself being drawn to Dave in a way she’s never felt before.
Will Cate confront the reasons behind her list? Or will she risk losing a man who could be better than any list she could ever dream up?
This romance where opposites attract is perfect for fans of Rachel Gibson, Susan Mallery, Victoria Dahl, and Susan Elizabeth Phillips.
280 pages, ebook
Published May 26, 2016
5 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Belinda Williams
22 books107 followersBelinda Williams is an award-winning Australian author who writes romantic comedy and romantic suspense featuring good guys. She’s occasionally tempted by bad boys, but prefers to write strong women characters and men with big hearts.
When she’s not writing, Belinda is a music lover who sings lead vocals in cover bands. Her other love is the water and she can often be found counting laps instead of words at her local swimming pool.
When she’s not writing, Belinda is a music lover who sings lead vocals in cover bands. Her other love is the water and she can often be found counting laps instead of words at her local swimming pool.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 13, 2016
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is the fourth in a series, whilst it can be read as a standalone (as I did), by not reading the previous books I felt as though I had missed out on some character development.
Cate's three friends have all met the love of their lives and she is feeling a bit like a spare part. Cate has had a difficult childhood, estranged from her alcoholic father and three elder siblings her only close relative is her brother. Cate has risen above her bad beginnings and made a good life for herself as a financial planner, the reader is told that she is an inveterate list maker although we don't really see any evidence of this - maybe this was shown in the previous books? Anyway, one of her lists is a wishlist for the perfect man. When Cate's apartment floods and she meets a sexy plumber she shies away from a relationship with him (not that he ever offered) because he doesn't fit her list.
Cate finds herself bumping into Dave the sexy plumber on a few occasions, apparently he knows someone in her apartment complex and his company has the maintenance contract for the building. She finds herself drawn to him but when he comes to her for financial planning advice, he is no longer available since it would be unethical for her to have a relationship with a client.
I don't know why I find novels about life in Australia more 'alien' than novels about life in the USA - both are different countries separated by a common language (as they say), maybe because we see more TV and movies set in the USA. Anyway, I found some of the attitudes of Cate and her friends to be strange. To be frank, I disliked Cate's friends and the way that they spoke to/about her. They openly mocked (this wasn't teasing, it was unkind) Cate's lists, they 'teased' her in front of strangers and dismissed her feelings. I thought it was telling that she was their 'friend' and yet none of them knew the truth about her childhood - I think subconsciously Belinda Williams was saying that these were not the sort of women that you would trust with personal secrets. But maybe that's me being all English and repressed, maybe that kind of brash, loud teasing is normal in Australia and indicative of being BFFs.
I enjoyed the story and I liked Dave, in fact I liked all of the men in this novel bar one, the women? Not so much. And there lies my issue with the novel. I didn't really buy into Cate's dilemma (in the UK at least plumbers make a fortune), and I didn't like Cate very much and I disliked her friends, even the kind ones still felt it incumbent on them to make personal comments.
I wish I had read the previous books in the series because maybe they would have explained the friendship between the women in this book and made me like Cate's friends more than I did.
This is the fourth in a series, whilst it can be read as a standalone (as I did), by not reading the previous books I felt as though I had missed out on some character development.
Cate's three friends have all met the love of their lives and she is feeling a bit like a spare part. Cate has had a difficult childhood, estranged from her alcoholic father and three elder siblings her only close relative is her brother. Cate has risen above her bad beginnings and made a good life for herself as a financial planner, the reader is told that she is an inveterate list maker although we don't really see any evidence of this - maybe this was shown in the previous books? Anyway, one of her lists is a wishlist for the perfect man. When Cate's apartment floods and she meets a sexy plumber she shies away from a relationship with him (not that he ever offered) because he doesn't fit her list.
Cate finds herself bumping into Dave the sexy plumber on a few occasions, apparently he knows someone in her apartment complex and his company has the maintenance contract for the building. She finds herself drawn to him but when he comes to her for financial planning advice, he is no longer available since it would be unethical for her to have a relationship with a client.
I don't know why I find novels about life in Australia more 'alien' than novels about life in the USA - both are different countries separated by a common language (as they say), maybe because we see more TV and movies set in the USA. Anyway, I found some of the attitudes of Cate and her friends to be strange. To be frank, I disliked Cate's friends and the way that they spoke to/about her. They openly mocked (this wasn't teasing, it was unkind) Cate's lists, they 'teased' her in front of strangers and dismissed her feelings. I thought it was telling that she was their 'friend' and yet none of them knew the truth about her childhood - I think subconsciously Belinda Williams was saying that these were not the sort of women that you would trust with personal secrets. But maybe that's me being all English and repressed, maybe that kind of brash, loud teasing is normal in Australia and indicative of being BFFs.
I enjoyed the story and I liked Dave, in fact I liked all of the men in this novel bar one, the women? Not so much. And there lies my issue with the novel. I didn't really buy into Cate's dilemma (in the UK at least plumbers make a fortune), and I didn't like Cate very much and I disliked her friends, even the kind ones still felt it incumbent on them to make personal comments.
I wish I had read the previous books in the series because maybe they would have explained the friendship between the women in this book and made me like Cate's friends more than I did.
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August 1, 2016 Woaaahhhh this was really surprising, now this was something I didn't expect.
Although I really enjoyed this book, this was a typical bad boy coming to your life and lifting you off your feet.
Cate is facing a huge dilemma, almost everyone of her friends is settled in a loving relationship, except her. Her friends are on a mission to change that. Although Cate does not admit about the list, she knows her best friends know about it and they never fail to mention to it her. I like that her friends never try to cajole her, they tell her exactly how it is which often can be interpreted as rude. But I for one think, its what Cate needs to hear. Then enters Dave. The plumber who saves the day when Cate flat is flooded with water. I love how Cate is so wrong about Dave in every way, like literally she is wrong about him. It just goes to show you can never judge a book by its cover.
Dave is a man with very few words, he is the silent type. But whenever he does have something to say, you know it will be something articulate. I LOVE banter. Banter is always a WINNER. And oh boy, I found this to be so funny. I just had a recollection of how annoying Dave could be sometimes, and he really did get under my skin. I was equally frustrated with him, I felt Cate's anger through the pages of my ebook (I did! I swear!)
I really loved Belinda's writing style, I can't believe I have never come across the author until now but I am so glad I did. I look forward to her future works! Yay for the author! ;D
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Although I really enjoyed this book, this was a typical bad boy coming to your life and lifting you off your feet.
Cate is facing a huge dilemma, almost everyone of her friends is settled in a loving relationship, except her. Her friends are on a mission to change that. Although Cate does not admit about the list, she knows her best friends know about it and they never fail to mention to it her. I like that her friends never try to cajole her, they tell her exactly how it is which often can be interpreted as rude. But I for one think, its what Cate needs to hear. Then enters Dave. The plumber who saves the day when Cate flat is flooded with water. I love how Cate is so wrong about Dave in every way, like literally she is wrong about him. It just goes to show you can never judge a book by its cover.
Dave is a man with very few words, he is the silent type. But whenever he does have something to say, you know it will be something articulate. I LOVE banter. Banter is always a WINNER. And oh boy, I found this to be so funny. I just had a recollection of how annoying Dave could be sometimes, and he really did get under my skin. I was equally frustrated with him, I felt Cate's anger through the pages of my ebook (I did! I swear!)
I really loved Belinda's writing style, I can't believe I have never come across the author until now but I am so glad I did. I look forward to her future works! Yay for the author! ;D
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May 26, 2016
4.5 lists aren't always needed stars. I have to be honest, I didn't remember Cate very much from the other books in this series which means she didn't stand out to me. I'm glad she did get her own book because she made me laugh, shake my head and snort. The read was enjoyable as I anticipated because Belinda Williams is quite the writer. I happened to like the secondary characters as much as the primary but that's to be expected since many of the secondary characters are from the previous books.
Dave was so unexpectedly cute and charming! I don't know how else to say it. He was shy and kind of like a teenage boy at times because he beat around the bush so much instead of directly saying he was interested and I find it so charming. I don't know, he wormed his way under my skin like he did Cate and I was all about Dave. Chant with me now: Dave, DAve, DAVe, DAVE!
Cate grew as a character throughout the pages of the book which I really liked. The story gives you background on her and dives deeply into all that is Cate so that it makes sense why she is the way she is and why lists are so important to her. She's kind of the person that does what she thinks is best for others even if it isn't necessarily the best for her. She also is a bit of an idealist which made me laugh.
Dave was so unexpectedly cute and charming! I don't know how else to say it. He was shy and kind of like a teenage boy at times because he beat around the bush so much instead of directly saying he was interested and I find it so charming. I don't know, he wormed his way under my skin like he did Cate and I was all about Dave. Chant with me now: Dave, DAve, DAVe, DAVE!
Cate grew as a character throughout the pages of the book which I really liked. The story gives you background on her and dives deeply into all that is Cate so that it makes sense why she is the way she is and why lists are so important to her. She's kind of the person that does what she thinks is best for others even if it isn't necessarily the best for her. She also is a bit of an idealist which made me laugh.
April 27, 2017
Note: I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley
I legit had a massive smile on my while reading this book, even in the rocky parts. I think I said something corny when I started reading it saying it was like coming back home but it was true; I love these women so much and I love Williams' stories about their lives and as soon as I started reading Cate's story I was back in their world with Maddy and Scarlett and Christa. It was like I hadn't left.
It's not all big smiles and excitement though; Williams did bring a few tears to the surface in some part, but just for a moment. I'm not saying the book is 90% happiness and frivolity, but it was just so wonderful to read that every little thing made me happy, the conflict, drama, Cate's frustration and denial, the SURPRISES! It was the perfect package and balance.
Wish List is the final in the City Love series and after seeing Christa's, Maddy's, and Scarlett's stories we finally get to explore Cate's. Williams has been great at dropping snippets of information through all her books about each woman, and with Scarlett's story Cate was given a closer look, just enough to tease you and build anticipation. Justified too because the Cate we discover is totally unexpected from the Cate we've gotten to know. Delving into her mind and life is wonderful and finding out more about her secretive past and seeing that she isn't always the cautious and structured girl she seems to be is fantastic, like all the girls we see her grow.
Williams' starts off the story slowly, almost as you'd expect, meeting a guy who isn't the guy you expect to fall for, but even if you think you know what may happen, that it will follow some clear set of events, it won't. Williams brings a whole new story to the table and brings complexity and depth and drama that doesn't feel over the top or too messy, it feels real and justified and intense.
For me this is the best and most wonderful ending to a series and a book I've read. Williams has always treated these women well and given them stories that suit them and that they deserve, this is no exception, and being the final book it also manages to be a farewell and big finale for the four of them. The continual surprises and little bits of joy and intensity are an emotional ride but I wouldn't change a thing. As I read my heart was pounding, I had knots in my stomach, a smile on my face, continually holding in gasps and squeals as my eyes fled across the page trying to read faster and possibly physically immerse myself in the story.
One thing I admire about William's writing is she makes wonderful romantic stories that are heart-warming, heartbreaking, and satisfying without making them overly sweet and mushy, or too innocent or risqué either. Getting inside the heads of these women helps balance that out because you see their reservations, their developing feelings and their reasoning behind what they do. You also fall in love with new characters and reacquaint yourself with the old ones.
I could go on forever and talk about every little thing in this book but I won't, I've gone on enough already, but I will say that there's 101 things to adore in this story, it's got everything, love, drama, friendship, excitement, the works. William's has done a truly marvellous job and had wrapped up the City Love series spectacularly.
A longer version of this review was published on my blog http://wp.me/p3x8rS-1j6
I legit had a massive smile on my while reading this book, even in the rocky parts. I think I said something corny when I started reading it saying it was like coming back home but it was true; I love these women so much and I love Williams' stories about their lives and as soon as I started reading Cate's story I was back in their world with Maddy and Scarlett and Christa. It was like I hadn't left.
It's not all big smiles and excitement though; Williams did bring a few tears to the surface in some part, but just for a moment. I'm not saying the book is 90% happiness and frivolity, but it was just so wonderful to read that every little thing made me happy, the conflict, drama, Cate's frustration and denial, the SURPRISES! It was the perfect package and balance.
Wish List is the final in the City Love series and after seeing Christa's, Maddy's, and Scarlett's stories we finally get to explore Cate's. Williams has been great at dropping snippets of information through all her books about each woman, and with Scarlett's story Cate was given a closer look, just enough to tease you and build anticipation. Justified too because the Cate we discover is totally unexpected from the Cate we've gotten to know. Delving into her mind and life is wonderful and finding out more about her secretive past and seeing that she isn't always the cautious and structured girl she seems to be is fantastic, like all the girls we see her grow.
Williams' starts off the story slowly, almost as you'd expect, meeting a guy who isn't the guy you expect to fall for, but even if you think you know what may happen, that it will follow some clear set of events, it won't. Williams brings a whole new story to the table and brings complexity and depth and drama that doesn't feel over the top or too messy, it feels real and justified and intense.
For me this is the best and most wonderful ending to a series and a book I've read. Williams has always treated these women well and given them stories that suit them and that they deserve, this is no exception, and being the final book it also manages to be a farewell and big finale for the four of them. The continual surprises and little bits of joy and intensity are an emotional ride but I wouldn't change a thing. As I read my heart was pounding, I had knots in my stomach, a smile on my face, continually holding in gasps and squeals as my eyes fled across the page trying to read faster and possibly physically immerse myself in the story.
One thing I admire about William's writing is she makes wonderful romantic stories that are heart-warming, heartbreaking, and satisfying without making them overly sweet and mushy, or too innocent or risqué either. Getting inside the heads of these women helps balance that out because you see their reservations, their developing feelings and their reasoning behind what they do. You also fall in love with new characters and reacquaint yourself with the old ones.
I could go on forever and talk about every little thing in this book but I won't, I've gone on enough already, but I will say that there's 101 things to adore in this story, it's got everything, love, drama, friendship, excitement, the works. William's has done a truly marvellous job and had wrapped up the City Love series spectacularly.
A longer version of this review was published on my blog http://wp.me/p3x8rS-1j6
May 26, 2016
Cate is turning a new leaf, no more hopeless romantic with rose colored glasses, she's been there and done that. And all it got her was heartbreak and misery. She wants what all her friends have found. A good man and a committed future, so no more jumping head first and no more spontaneous leaps of faith. One thing leads to another and before she knows it she's devised a wish list, everything she requires for her perfect man. Only what happens when she meets Dave? He's completely wrong for her but there is no denying the instant pull between them.
When her well meaning friends set her up with a man who actually does meet all her wishlist requirements, will Cate let Dave pass her by or will she take one last giant leap of faith for the chance to claim that elusive but so worth it love of a lifetime?
This was an emotional ride all the way around. Cate definitely gets put through the emotional ringer on her journey to love and it was both heart wrenching and uplifting. There is definitely a strong physical connection from the get-go but the emotional bond these two form can't be overlooked. Dave and Cate together were a really great couple. Even with all their differences, their bond was stronger for it.
That being said, I still found it hard to warm up to Cate. During the first half of the book it felt like with the introduction and rehashing of all her girlfriends and their past and present drama (especially Christa and Max's wedding stuff) Cate was overshadowed. This is just my thoughts but it felt like there were too many people and too much input coming from all directions that it became confusing and a bit dull. I wanted more page time with Cate and Dave. Than in the second half there is a lot of family drama, both from Cate and Dave's side. It's like these two could not catch a break. Once one secret was painfully revealed and than resolved, we got thrown another curve ball.
The pacing was slow to start and than after that first bump there was no slowing down. It did give us insight and that extra push I needed from Cate. I loved the confrontation scene at the end because it finally showed Cate in a decisive light. She wasn't second guessing or afraid, she was finally an h I could get behind and root for. I loved that scene! One of my favorites but it was literally at the end and I guess I was just expecting more from Dave.
Overall a good read for a sultry afternoon. Recommend if you enjoy the angsty drama of a push and pull relationship that ends on sweet romantic note.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
When her well meaning friends set her up with a man who actually does meet all her wishlist requirements, will Cate let Dave pass her by or will she take one last giant leap of faith for the chance to claim that elusive but so worth it love of a lifetime?
This was an emotional ride all the way around. Cate definitely gets put through the emotional ringer on her journey to love and it was both heart wrenching and uplifting. There is definitely a strong physical connection from the get-go but the emotional bond these two form can't be overlooked. Dave and Cate together were a really great couple. Even with all their differences, their bond was stronger for it.
That being said, I still found it hard to warm up to Cate. During the first half of the book it felt like with the introduction and rehashing of all her girlfriends and their past and present drama (especially Christa and Max's wedding stuff) Cate was overshadowed. This is just my thoughts but it felt like there were too many people and too much input coming from all directions that it became confusing and a bit dull. I wanted more page time with Cate and Dave. Than in the second half there is a lot of family drama, both from Cate and Dave's side. It's like these two could not catch a break. Once one secret was painfully revealed and than resolved, we got thrown another curve ball.
The pacing was slow to start and than after that first bump there was no slowing down. It did give us insight and that extra push I needed from Cate. I loved the confrontation scene at the end because it finally showed Cate in a decisive light. She wasn't second guessing or afraid, she was finally an h I could get behind and root for. I loved that scene! One of my favorites but it was literally at the end and I guess I was just expecting more from Dave.
Overall a good read for a sultry afternoon. Recommend if you enjoy the angsty drama of a push and pull relationship that ends on sweet romantic note.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
June 6, 2016
Once you close the door to old habits it makes it difficult to open them again and let in the real and right thing for you. Cate learned this first hand. After making a change in her life, she feels the need to make things the way she want them to be by making the perfect list for the man of her dreams. Cate finds out hat list are not always the best way to keep tabs or checks.
Hopes, dreams, futures planned have a way of changing when the glass is not filling. Wish List takes us on the journey of Cate as she discovers that life is not about list. Its about grabbing hold of what's right in front of you and making the most of it. At the same time she just may learn a thing or two from Dave. There were fun times, slow times, heartbreak and endearing times. In the end you received a rich story with developed characters and an emotional read.
**This ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Hopes, dreams, futures planned have a way of changing when the glass is not filling. Wish List takes us on the journey of Cate as she discovers that life is not about list. Its about grabbing hold of what's right in front of you and making the most of it. At the same time she just may learn a thing or two from Dave. There were fun times, slow times, heartbreak and endearing times. In the end you received a rich story with developed characters and an emotional read.
**This ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
May 2, 2016
Wish List is the fourth and, sadly, final installment of the City Love series featuring the four fast friends Christa, Maddy, Scarlett and Cate.
Finally, we have Cate’s story and I have been waiting for it ever so patiently. Cate has been there through the entire series and we get to know her a little better every time, but never really deeply. Cate is the romantic of the quartet, hopeless romantic it sometimes seems, but she hasn’t been having any luck. Throughout the series we have seen her heartbroken after a bad choice and embark on something new but nothing that got really serious.
Cate is a financial planner, originally an accountant. She has a very logical, analytical mind and she loves lists. Kind of gives you a bit of a hint as to where this one is going to go.
I love Cate, I have from the beginning. Yes, there have been times I wanted to shake her and even in Wish List there were those same moments but that didn’t stop me loving her. She is a dedicated planner making her mark in her new job and career path while in her personal life she’s getting ready to end an era and lose her flatmate.
The eternal romantic is the last one left on the shelf and her friends are starting to treat her with pity, which she absolutely hates. Another night at home alone and just as she’s changing for a relaxing bath the hot water service bursts and leaves her in a compromising state of undress when the sexy plumber arrives to take a look.
The plumber may be sexy, competent and thoughtful but he doesn’t tick the boxes on Cate’s Wish List.
Wish List may be Cate’s story but it wouldn’t be complete without a look into the lives of all the couples from earlier in the series. We get to check in on the progress for all of them and come along for the ride that is Christa and Max’s engagement and wedding planning. We also get to meet his groomsmen, new characters that haven’t been introduced until now. And what do we have here, one of them is looking rather listworthy… but will that be enough.
Wish List was a little predictable and formulaic but it was fun. It was engaging and interesting with enough drama to keep me enthralled.
It was fantastic to finally learn Cate’s backstory, in its entirety. I always knew there was more to her and it seems there was a lot more to her story. She may be an open, caring, romantic but she has many hidden stories and traumas that she hasn’t shared with any of her friends. Wish List is her time to shine and we learn all about her past.
There is a lot more than meets the eye to the men in this story as well. Tragedy has struck, adultery, family drama, alcohol abuse and the list goes on.
Williams tackles the issues of drink driving, verbal abuse, sexual assualt and adultery with empathy and insight; she illustrates many of the different reactions and coping mechanisms with relatability and realism while still capturing the magic of romance.
Wish List is another heartwarming story with more than a touch of heartbreak that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’m a little sad to have reached the end of the City Love series, I will miss these girls and their partners. I would love to check in on them a little further down the track to see how it is all going…. perhaps Lauren could get her own story, I’m sure that could work.
Perfect for a quiet afternoon to escape the school holiday madness.
Wish List was book #25 for the Australian Women Writer’s Challenge 2016.
Finally, we have Cate’s story and I have been waiting for it ever so patiently. Cate has been there through the entire series and we get to know her a little better every time, but never really deeply. Cate is the romantic of the quartet, hopeless romantic it sometimes seems, but she hasn’t been having any luck. Throughout the series we have seen her heartbroken after a bad choice and embark on something new but nothing that got really serious.
Cate is a financial planner, originally an accountant. She has a very logical, analytical mind and she loves lists. Kind of gives you a bit of a hint as to where this one is going to go.
I love Cate, I have from the beginning. Yes, there have been times I wanted to shake her and even in Wish List there were those same moments but that didn’t stop me loving her. She is a dedicated planner making her mark in her new job and career path while in her personal life she’s getting ready to end an era and lose her flatmate.
The eternal romantic is the last one left on the shelf and her friends are starting to treat her with pity, which she absolutely hates. Another night at home alone and just as she’s changing for a relaxing bath the hot water service bursts and leaves her in a compromising state of undress when the sexy plumber arrives to take a look.
The plumber may be sexy, competent and thoughtful but he doesn’t tick the boxes on Cate’s Wish List.
Wish List may be Cate’s story but it wouldn’t be complete without a look into the lives of all the couples from earlier in the series. We get to check in on the progress for all of them and come along for the ride that is Christa and Max’s engagement and wedding planning. We also get to meet his groomsmen, new characters that haven’t been introduced until now. And what do we have here, one of them is looking rather listworthy… but will that be enough.
Wish List was a little predictable and formulaic but it was fun. It was engaging and interesting with enough drama to keep me enthralled.
It was fantastic to finally learn Cate’s backstory, in its entirety. I always knew there was more to her and it seems there was a lot more to her story. She may be an open, caring, romantic but she has many hidden stories and traumas that she hasn’t shared with any of her friends. Wish List is her time to shine and we learn all about her past.
There is a lot more than meets the eye to the men in this story as well. Tragedy has struck, adultery, family drama, alcohol abuse and the list goes on.
Williams tackles the issues of drink driving, verbal abuse, sexual assualt and adultery with empathy and insight; she illustrates many of the different reactions and coping mechanisms with relatability and realism while still capturing the magic of romance.
Wish List is another heartwarming story with more than a touch of heartbreak that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’m a little sad to have reached the end of the City Love series, I will miss these girls and their partners. I would love to check in on them a little further down the track to see how it is all going…. perhaps Lauren could get her own story, I’m sure that could work.
Perfect for a quiet afternoon to escape the school holiday madness.
Wish List was book #25 for the Australian Women Writer’s Challenge 2016.
May 27, 2016
Belinda Williams has once again shown that she can write characters with depth, in this, the 4th book in the City Love Series. This is love story offers a bit of fun, humor, tears, romance, friendship and everything in between. I loved it.
Cate has been a bit of a quieter character through the first three books in the City Love Series, and now we finally get to really know Cate for being more than just a "boring" stereo typical accountant / financially minded type, more than just a the dreamy romantic girl that we've seen in the earlier books. This is her story and it's all about the love that she wants to find in her "perfect man" as defined by a specific "wish list" of characteristics.
Like all of William's City Love Girls, Cate could easily be someone you know., a friend, a colleague, someone you went to school with. William's continues to write characters that are relatable and characters that make you think about the people around you. Cate is organised, so of course she has a list of what she's looking for in a fella - it's important to know what you do and don't want, right? But what happens when you meet someone that doesn't tick pretty much any of the boxes on the "Must Have" list, but makes you "tick"!!......What do you do when you're faced with breaking the rules that you've set up to protect yourself from getting hurt? Cate's story will make you giggle and make you feel love and sorrow. All the things that a good book should make you feel.
OK, so a bit about this book being part of a the series.....it is the 4th in the City Love series and I've read (and loved) them all. Although it's a series and the characters are common each book in this series can stand alone and (even though I've read them all) I think this is no exception. You can read this without having read the first three, while being independent stories, but the series does follow a chronological collection of events. If you know the back stories from the earlier books you will find that you better understand some of the sideline stories that surround Cate and you will perhaps better appreciate how the stories of her girlfriends have impacted on Cate's life, friendships and romance and how Wish List, while being about Cate, is carefully providing closure to all the previous stories in the series ~ so having read the earlier books offers some advantage if you don't want to feel bombarded by storytelling that isn't perhaps crucial to the main . It provides wonderful finale to a reader who has invested in the bigger picture.
My point is that if you think this book is up your alley, because you like a Modern Romance, do yourself a favour and start at the beginning with The Boyfriend Sessions, and work your way through the City Love Series, in order, because you won't regret it.
Love your work Belinda, and can't wait to find out what's next!
Cate has been a bit of a quieter character through the first three books in the City Love Series, and now we finally get to really know Cate for being more than just a "boring" stereo typical accountant / financially minded type, more than just a the dreamy romantic girl that we've seen in the earlier books. This is her story and it's all about the love that she wants to find in her "perfect man" as defined by a specific "wish list" of characteristics.
Like all of William's City Love Girls, Cate could easily be someone you know., a friend, a colleague, someone you went to school with. William's continues to write characters that are relatable and characters that make you think about the people around you. Cate is organised, so of course she has a list of what she's looking for in a fella - it's important to know what you do and don't want, right? But what happens when you meet someone that doesn't tick pretty much any of the boxes on the "Must Have" list, but makes you "tick"!!......What do you do when you're faced with breaking the rules that you've set up to protect yourself from getting hurt? Cate's story will make you giggle and make you feel love and sorrow. All the things that a good book should make you feel.
OK, so a bit about this book being part of a the series.....it is the 4th in the City Love series and I've read (and loved) them all. Although it's a series and the characters are common each book in this series can stand alone and (even though I've read them all) I think this is no exception. You can read this without having read the first three, while being independent stories, but the series does follow a chronological collection of events. If you know the back stories from the earlier books you will find that you better understand some of the sideline stories that surround Cate and you will perhaps better appreciate how the stories of her girlfriends have impacted on Cate's life, friendships and romance and how Wish List, while being about Cate, is carefully providing closure to all the previous stories in the series ~ so having read the earlier books offers some advantage if you don't want to feel bombarded by storytelling that isn't perhaps crucial to the main . It provides wonderful finale to a reader who has invested in the bigger picture.
My point is that if you think this book is up your alley, because you like a Modern Romance, do yourself a favour and start at the beginning with The Boyfriend Sessions, and work your way through the City Love Series, in order, because you won't regret it.
Love your work Belinda, and can't wait to find out what's next!
June 23, 2016
Could the wrong man on paper be the perfect man in real life?
Cate Harmon likes lists. While this may serve her well as a financial planner, her girlfriends think that creating a checklist for her ideal man is going a step too far. But she has one, and she’s sticking to it.
Cate has always dreamed of starting a family and settling down and yet she’s the only one of her close knit friendship group still unattached. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to lower her standards.
Enter Dave, a reformed bad boy with gorgeous hair and eyes the wrong color. Dave doesn’t tick any of the boxes on Cate’s list. It’s unthinkable that she would develop feelings for him, and yet … Cate finds herself being drawn to Dave in a way she’s never felt before.
Will Cate confront the reasons behind her list? Or will she risk losing a man who could be better than any list she could ever dream up?
My Review:
I love Williams work, she always pens fun fantastic romances that capture your heart from beginning to end. I really enjoyed the mister wrong is mister right perspective because sometimes its just the mix you need for everything to click into place. Although Cate took a minute to grow on me she eventually won me over and I was cheering along for our h/h to find their HEA.
I always have a great time reading Belinda Williams books and I can't wait to read more again in the very near future.
My Rating:
Reviewed By:
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Disclaimer:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Source:
Received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley.
Note:
If any of Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like or let me know what you think! Thank you!
Cate Harmon likes lists. While this may serve her well as a financial planner, her girlfriends think that creating a checklist for her ideal man is going a step too far. But she has one, and she’s sticking to it.
Cate has always dreamed of starting a family and settling down and yet she’s the only one of her close knit friendship group still unattached. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to lower her standards.
Enter Dave, a reformed bad boy with gorgeous hair and eyes the wrong color. Dave doesn’t tick any of the boxes on Cate’s list. It’s unthinkable that she would develop feelings for him, and yet … Cate finds herself being drawn to Dave in a way she’s never felt before.
Will Cate confront the reasons behind her list? Or will she risk losing a man who could be better than any list she could ever dream up?
My Review:
I love Williams work, she always pens fun fantastic romances that capture your heart from beginning to end. I really enjoyed the mister wrong is mister right perspective because sometimes its just the mix you need for everything to click into place. Although Cate took a minute to grow on me she eventually won me over and I was cheering along for our h/h to find their HEA.
I always have a great time reading Belinda Williams books and I can't wait to read more again in the very near future.
My Rating:
Reviewed By:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
Booklikes
Goodreads
Google Plus
Blogger
Amazon
Disclaimer:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Source:
Received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley.
Note:
If any of Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like or let me know what you think! Thank you!
April 27, 2016
Belinda Williams has written another fun and exciting novel with Wish List, the fourth book from her City Love series. It is a fast-paced read, replete with an engaging storyline, well-defined characters, and a complicated, yet seductive romance. The story takes place in the land down under, specifically in Sydney and the South Coast. Although this book is part of a series, it can be totally enjoyed as a standalone.
Cate Harmon likes lists, order, and numbers, so her career as an accountant and financial planner is a perfectly natural fit. She is smart, beautiful and has some really good friends and a awesome brother. Cate is the only one of her friends that does not have a significant other, which depresses her at times. When her hot water heater breaks and floods her apartment, plumber Dave Worthington comes to the rescue. At the beginning, he is not what Cate considers boyfriend material, yet overtime her list of significant other requirements are replaced by Dave's compassion, collection of classic cars and love.
Ms. Williams has become one of my favorite authors and I never pass up an opportunity to read anything she writes. This is an well-written story, and Cate and Dave are interesting, complex and genuine. They challenge each other without even knowing it. If you enjoy a novel with a strong heroine, an eclectic group of caring friends, and an unsung hero, then spend sometime in Oz with Wish List.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Cate Harmon likes lists, order, and numbers, so her career as an accountant and financial planner is a perfectly natural fit. She is smart, beautiful and has some really good friends and a awesome brother. Cate is the only one of her friends that does not have a significant other, which depresses her at times. When her hot water heater breaks and floods her apartment, plumber Dave Worthington comes to the rescue. At the beginning, he is not what Cate considers boyfriend material, yet overtime her list of significant other requirements are replaced by Dave's compassion, collection of classic cars and love.
Ms. Williams has become one of my favorite authors and I never pass up an opportunity to read anything she writes. This is an well-written story, and Cate and Dave are interesting, complex and genuine. They challenge each other without even knowing it. If you enjoy a novel with a strong heroine, an eclectic group of caring friends, and an unsung hero, then spend sometime in Oz with Wish List.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
June 1, 2016
An original premise with well-developed characters, strong friendships, and a whole lotta fun despite the turmoil.
Dave is most definitely the strong silent type, and although talking to him is like trying to converse with a monk, I dug him. He has an air of mystery and that intrigued me. Somehow I couldn’t help but to fall in love with him. He had his flaws, and I so wanted to spank him (the good and bad kind), but Cate stuck in there with him, and I was glad.
Cate’s life has been anything but easy, and she has her own things to work through – namely the list. I thought the subject of the list would be approached differently, and the fact that it was not what I expected pleased me. Now, there is a list; but it’s in her head, not something she’s written down and literally checks off. But, hey, don’t we all have a list of some sort when it comes to dating and marriage – things we want in a mate, things we’re willing to live with, things that are an absolute deal-breaker? I think we do, so we really can’t fault Cate.
There was a lot going on, but I didn’t feel overwhelmed. I followed the story without any confusion, and I enjoyed the banter tremendously. Scarlett and Bear are my favorite secondary characters, and I must search them out in other novels.
There’s great writing, very vivid descriptions, and just the right amount of narrative. This is the first book I’ve read by Williams, and I must say, I’m impressed. I plan to read more of her work.
Dave is most definitely the strong silent type, and although talking to him is like trying to converse with a monk, I dug him. He has an air of mystery and that intrigued me. Somehow I couldn’t help but to fall in love with him. He had his flaws, and I so wanted to spank him (the good and bad kind), but Cate stuck in there with him, and I was glad.
Cate’s life has been anything but easy, and she has her own things to work through – namely the list. I thought the subject of the list would be approached differently, and the fact that it was not what I expected pleased me. Now, there is a list; but it’s in her head, not something she’s written down and literally checks off. But, hey, don’t we all have a list of some sort when it comes to dating and marriage – things we want in a mate, things we’re willing to live with, things that are an absolute deal-breaker? I think we do, so we really can’t fault Cate.
There was a lot going on, but I didn’t feel overwhelmed. I followed the story without any confusion, and I enjoyed the banter tremendously. Scarlett and Bear are my favorite secondary characters, and I must search them out in other novels.
There’s great writing, very vivid descriptions, and just the right amount of narrative. This is the first book I’ve read by Williams, and I must say, I’m impressed. I plan to read more of her work.
June 5, 2016
4.5 stars! I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book I've read by Belinda Williams and I must say that I loved it! I didn't read the others in the series, and honestly didn't realize it was a series until I started reading. But that didn't take anything away from this story at all. I really love how Cate has a list (whether in her mind or actually written down) about what would make the perfect person for her. Honestly, my husband and I are quite different and I think it makes life so much better! But Cate thinks she has an idea of what she wants, until she meets Dave. While she really likes him, he doesn't meet her criteria, so she questions whether to move forward. Meanwhile, she meets another guy who does meet everything on her list. Needless to say, she has a difficult decision ahead of her!
This story was really cute and I loved reading every bit of it. I really want to go back and read the others in the series, regardless of knowing how they turn out. Williams has a way with writing that really grabbed me and her characters are so fun. I would definitely recommend this book to any other romance fan! I had a hard time putting it down!
Pagesofcomfort.blogspot.com
This is the first book I've read by Belinda Williams and I must say that I loved it! I didn't read the others in the series, and honestly didn't realize it was a series until I started reading. But that didn't take anything away from this story at all. I really love how Cate has a list (whether in her mind or actually written down) about what would make the perfect person for her. Honestly, my husband and I are quite different and I think it makes life so much better! But Cate thinks she has an idea of what she wants, until she meets Dave. While she really likes him, he doesn't meet her criteria, so she questions whether to move forward. Meanwhile, she meets another guy who does meet everything on her list. Needless to say, she has a difficult decision ahead of her!
This story was really cute and I loved reading every bit of it. I really want to go back and read the others in the series, regardless of knowing how they turn out. Williams has a way with writing that really grabbed me and her characters are so fun. I would definitely recommend this book to any other romance fan! I had a hard time putting it down!
Pagesofcomfort.blogspot.com
May 25, 2016
Cate is the last single woman in her group of friends. She feels a bit lonely at times, especially since her roommate doesn’t spend too much time at their place now that she is engaged. One night Cate just wants to let some tension go and decides on a long bath. This leads to a broken water heater and a call to the plumber. The plumber is one hot man who helps Cate when she burns her foot and even takes her to the hospital. He’s very sweet but not her type.
Cate has a wish list of things that she looks for in a man and Dave the Plumber doesn’t have any on those things…no cool British or Irish accent, not a college grad, doesn’t like sailing, and he’s not left-handed. These are pretty specific things but they’re what Cate wants…or does she. She’s incredibly attracted to Dave but she’s not sure they could work. Her friends give her grief over her list and try to make Dave and Cate work but Dave’s father will do just about anything to break them apart.
This was a cute contemporary romance set in Sydney, Australia. I thought it was pretty funny that Cate wanted a man with a British or Irish accent when I’m thinking Dave with his Australian accent would be just fine.
Cate has a wish list of things that she looks for in a man and Dave the Plumber doesn’t have any on those things…no cool British or Irish accent, not a college grad, doesn’t like sailing, and he’s not left-handed. These are pretty specific things but they’re what Cate wants…or does she. She’s incredibly attracted to Dave but she’s not sure they could work. Her friends give her grief over her list and try to make Dave and Cate work but Dave’s father will do just about anything to break them apart.
This was a cute contemporary romance set in Sydney, Australia. I thought it was pretty funny that Cate wanted a man with a British or Irish accent when I’m thinking Dave with his Australian accent would be just fine.
June 1, 2016
What happens when Mr Wrong turns into Mr Oh so right?
Cate is the only one still single out of all of her friends. Everyone has an ideal guy but Cate's is so specific that she calls it her wish list. She wants a college grad who is right handed, hates sailing and has a sexy British accent
When her water heater burst Dave comes to repair it. Only he does things for her that are far out of his job description. Her friends give her grief because she is not giving Dave the chance that he deserves.
The plumber is sexy, charming, and thoughtful but he doesn’t meet the criteria of Cate’s Wish List.
I loved Dave. It was obvious that he had a caring nature from the start. He is not very talkative and he held on tight to some of his secretes, but that somehow gave his character more depth.
The story starts off slowly and almost predictable, until things take a turn for the highly unexpected. Wish List is a complex Drama that is full of intense, realistic drama and angst. Belinda Williams did a splendid job of telling Cate and Dave's story.
*4 Wish Filled Stars*
**ARC Provided to Books Need TLC in exchange for an honest review**
Cate is the only one still single out of all of her friends. Everyone has an ideal guy but Cate's is so specific that she calls it her wish list. She wants a college grad who is right handed, hates sailing and has a sexy British accent
When her water heater burst Dave comes to repair it. Only he does things for her that are far out of his job description. Her friends give her grief because she is not giving Dave the chance that he deserves.
The plumber is sexy, charming, and thoughtful but he doesn’t meet the criteria of Cate’s Wish List.
I loved Dave. It was obvious that he had a caring nature from the start. He is not very talkative and he held on tight to some of his secretes, but that somehow gave his character more depth.
The story starts off slowly and almost predictable, until things take a turn for the highly unexpected. Wish List is a complex Drama that is full of intense, realistic drama and angst. Belinda Williams did a splendid job of telling Cate and Dave's story.
*4 Wish Filled Stars*
**ARC Provided to Books Need TLC in exchange for an honest review**
June 8, 2016
**I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley for my honest review**
This was a perfect final book in this series! I enjoyed learning about Cate. I had always thought Scarlett should have been the last book, but I am so glad it was Cate! She had been through a lot in her past and present. Through this book we saw how she grew as a person, and into who she needed to be in order to find her soulmate.
I liked Dave right away. His obvious concern about Cate's foot when they first met came through even though he was not a talkative man. He did concern me with his secrets and not giving up all the info on his past when it was obvious Cate had her struggles growing up and wouldn't have shunned him. I wish he didn't keep them from her and have her find out from others that there was more to the story.
It only took me 4 days to read the book as it was so much fun to be back with the City Love girls. Even with the predictable nature, it was a fun ride. I recommend this whole series to anyone who loves girlfriends and their journey in finding their soulmates.
This was a perfect final book in this series! I enjoyed learning about Cate. I had always thought Scarlett should have been the last book, but I am so glad it was Cate! She had been through a lot in her past and present. Through this book we saw how she grew as a person, and into who she needed to be in order to find her soulmate.
I liked Dave right away. His obvious concern about Cate's foot when they first met came through even though he was not a talkative man. He did concern me with his secrets and not giving up all the info on his past when it was obvious Cate had her struggles growing up and wouldn't have shunned him. I wish he didn't keep them from her and have her find out from others that there was more to the story.
It only took me 4 days to read the book as it was so much fun to be back with the City Love girls. Even with the predictable nature, it was a fun ride. I recommend this whole series to anyone who loves girlfriends and their journey in finding their soulmates.
August 22, 2016
from: Wish List: City Love 4 (Kindle Edition)
I was generously provided an arc in exchange for a honest review from Netgalley. I loved this book although I wish I could have read the other books in this series first as this is the last book. But dont worry it doss standalone. I almost didnt like Cate at the beginning shd kinda seemed snobby to me but as I read I could understand her more. She a financial planner who loves list. Her friends even joke she probably has one for the perfect man. And she does in fact gave one. But she didn't plan on reformed bad boy Dave who she meets when her water heater goes and hes the closes plumber. Dave was a very quiet guy who had secrets. But shes falling for him even though he has gorgeous hair and eyes there not the color on her list. But shes drawn to him like no other man ever. I lived how she grew through the story and even though I felt it took awhile to get them together it didnt drag. Definitely a worth it for sure read, and Ill definitely be reading the other books in this series and whatever knew comes my way!
I was generously provided an arc in exchange for a honest review from Netgalley. I loved this book although I wish I could have read the other books in this series first as this is the last book. But dont worry it doss standalone. I almost didnt like Cate at the beginning shd kinda seemed snobby to me but as I read I could understand her more. She a financial planner who loves list. Her friends even joke she probably has one for the perfect man. And she does in fact gave one. But she didn't plan on reformed bad boy Dave who she meets when her water heater goes and hes the closes plumber. Dave was a very quiet guy who had secrets. But shes falling for him even though he has gorgeous hair and eyes there not the color on her list. But shes drawn to him like no other man ever. I lived how she grew through the story and even though I felt it took awhile to get them together it didnt drag. Definitely a worth it for sure read, and Ill definitely be reading the other books in this series and whatever knew comes my way!
June 1, 2016
This was an entertaining read. It was book 4 in this series, but I had no problem following along.
This was the story of Cate (I love that it's Cate with a C) and Dave. Cate is a romantic at heart, but after her horrible life growing up, she had a "wish list" of qualities that she wanted in a man. Or at least she thought she wanted those qualities. When Dave shows up at her apartment to fix her busted hot water heater, she notices how attractive he is, but he's not very talkative. They run into each other in a few places and eventually start a relationship. Dave is hiding a bunch of stuff from Cate and it blows up in his face. I was soooo proud of Cate for not rolling over and taking his mess, but I honest to God thought they were finished and I wouldn't get my HEA for them. Thankfully, I was wrong!
While I enjoyed this, there was just something in there that kept me from adoring it. I can't exactly put my finger on it. It felt too long to me. Still though, it was a good read :)
*Thanks to Tasty Book PR for providing a copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
This was the story of Cate (I love that it's Cate with a C) and Dave. Cate is a romantic at heart, but after her horrible life growing up, she had a "wish list" of qualities that she wanted in a man. Or at least she thought she wanted those qualities. When Dave shows up at her apartment to fix her busted hot water heater, she notices how attractive he is, but he's not very talkative. They run into each other in a few places and eventually start a relationship. Dave is hiding a bunch of stuff from Cate and it blows up in his face. I was soooo proud of Cate for not rolling over and taking his mess, but I honest to God thought they were finished and I wouldn't get my HEA for them. Thankfully, I was wrong!
While I enjoyed this, there was just something in there that kept me from adoring it. I can't exactly put my finger on it. It felt too long to me. Still though, it was a good read :)
*Thanks to Tasty Book PR for providing a copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
May 29, 2016
I was given this book to read and give a honest review.
Well as far as a romantic story, this one was great. Dave and Cate as opposite as they could get. Cate has a wish list on how the man of her dreams should be. I think we all did have a list like that, I know I did, Cate navigated through a lot of things to finally be with Dave. Dave on the same hand had some issues that he never told her about. Sorry wont say much more for I do not want to give the book away. It was fun to read specaily as it took place in my hometown Sydney Australia.
The storey flowed well and was exciting to follow, Enjoyed it thoroughly..
Well as far as a romantic story, this one was great. Dave and Cate as opposite as they could get. Cate has a wish list on how the man of her dreams should be. I think we all did have a list like that, I know I did, Cate navigated through a lot of things to finally be with Dave. Dave on the same hand had some issues that he never told her about. Sorry wont say much more for I do not want to give the book away. It was fun to read specaily as it took place in my hometown Sydney Australia.
The storey flowed well and was exciting to follow, Enjoyed it thoroughly..
May 30, 2016
Cate has stood around and watched her other friends find love and while she wants to find that as well, she has this list of her requirements for her other half. Cate plans her whole life and relationships are another thing she manages like a list. When someone comes along that doesn't meet her official list requirements, she isn't sure if she should chance it. The characters are well written and the whole story has an easy flow to it. I enjoyed their back and forth and how Cate was pushed to step outside her limits. This romance story is not at all cookie cutter and is an enjoyable read.
April 25, 2016
ARC provided by NetGalley.
This was my first book from Belinda Williams and I gotta say I'm hooked! I loved her wrinting style. I loved the characteres even when I didn't like their decisions or attitudes. This is a great story and although there's quite a bit frama in it, I didn't feel it was drama just for the sakes of it. I feel like I would understand more (Cate's being described as a big romantic) if I had read the previous books.
This was my first book from Belinda Williams and I gotta say I'm hooked! I loved her wrinting style. I loved the characteres even when I didn't like their decisions or attitudes. This is a great story and although there's quite a bit frama in it, I didn't feel it was drama just for the sakes of it. I feel like I would understand more (Cate's being described as a big romantic) if I had read the previous books.
January 4, 2018
*Copy provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was the fourth book in the series, I read it as a standalone and I had no problem following along. This was a very entertaining read, but I wouldn't say it was spectacular. I won't be picking up to re-read or to read any others in the series. This book started out really slow, then it's like the last half of the book the author just kept throwing things at you. It was a good read, but for some reason I just couldn't get into it, it didn't wow me.
This was the fourth book in the series, I read it as a standalone and I had no problem following along. This was a very entertaining read, but I wouldn't say it was spectacular. I won't be picking up to re-read or to read any others in the series. This book started out really slow, then it's like the last half of the book the author just kept throwing things at you. It was a good read, but for some reason I just couldn't get into it, it didn't wow me.
October 24, 2019
Loved. See review for first in series
May 26, 2016
3.5 stars.
I had no idea when I picked this up that it was the fourth (and final?) book in this series. Although it does standalone and is perfectly readable without trying the others, I do feel that I probably would have got more out of it if I at least knew the other characters before they were thrown at me. It might also have been nice to have seen Cate from someone else’s POV, since this book is all from her perspective and although I liked her, it’s clear she keeps a lot of things hidden from her friends.
However, I did enjoy this. It’s fun in places, surprisingly emotional in others, and despite Cate’s somewhat snobbish thinking at the beginning, I liked her a lot as I learnt more about her throughout. This book is told wholly in Cate’s first person POV, and I would have loved to have seen things through Dave’s eyes a time or two. Even though it’s clear Cate isn’t picking up on all his emotional cues, he is a quiet kind of guy and I’d have loved to have known what he was thinking throughout.
This is a story of friendship as well as love, and I wasn’t always that fond of Cate’s friends. Scarlett was funny at times, but could be a bit cruel, while the others clearly don’t know Cate as well as they thought they did. I think because I haven’t read the other books, I missed some of the nuances of their friendships (like just how long Cate had known them all, since apparently the other three had been friends forever) and wasn’t too keen on the way they almost pitied Cate because she’s not all loved up like they are.
However, this is also a romance, and I loved how perceptions were turned on their head when it came to Cate and Dave. He really wasn’t anything like she thought when all she knew about him was that he was a plumber. I loved how he quietly wormed his way into her life, though I’m kind of sad the “Later, Cate” thing fell away without notice. The pace is pretty slow between them for 2/3rds of the book, and then everything seems to happen at once. As happy as I was that things finally happened, it might have been nice if all the revelations hadn’t all landed on top of each other. Then again it led to a lovely ending and a fair bit of character growth for Cate, so it definitely has its good points.
Overall this was enjoyable. I liked the characters and some of the more unexpected aspects of the plot – Cate’s father and family, the silent support Dave gives without question. It has a nice bit of chemistry and although it is slow going for the most part, I never got bored and enjoyed it right to the finish. I’m a little sad that I came into this series right at the end, but I’m tempted to catch up with the rest of the books sometime – and if Dave’s sister ever gets her own tale, I’ll definitely want to read it.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I had no idea when I picked this up that it was the fourth (and final?) book in this series. Although it does standalone and is perfectly readable without trying the others, I do feel that I probably would have got more out of it if I at least knew the other characters before they were thrown at me. It might also have been nice to have seen Cate from someone else’s POV, since this book is all from her perspective and although I liked her, it’s clear she keeps a lot of things hidden from her friends.
However, I did enjoy this. It’s fun in places, surprisingly emotional in others, and despite Cate’s somewhat snobbish thinking at the beginning, I liked her a lot as I learnt more about her throughout. This book is told wholly in Cate’s first person POV, and I would have loved to have seen things through Dave’s eyes a time or two. Even though it’s clear Cate isn’t picking up on all his emotional cues, he is a quiet kind of guy and I’d have loved to have known what he was thinking throughout.
This is a story of friendship as well as love, and I wasn’t always that fond of Cate’s friends. Scarlett was funny at times, but could be a bit cruel, while the others clearly don’t know Cate as well as they thought they did. I think because I haven’t read the other books, I missed some of the nuances of their friendships (like just how long Cate had known them all, since apparently the other three had been friends forever) and wasn’t too keen on the way they almost pitied Cate because she’s not all loved up like they are.
However, this is also a romance, and I loved how perceptions were turned on their head when it came to Cate and Dave. He really wasn’t anything like she thought when all she knew about him was that he was a plumber. I loved how he quietly wormed his way into her life, though I’m kind of sad the “Later, Cate” thing fell away without notice. The pace is pretty slow between them for 2/3rds of the book, and then everything seems to happen at once. As happy as I was that things finally happened, it might have been nice if all the revelations hadn’t all landed on top of each other. Then again it led to a lovely ending and a fair bit of character growth for Cate, so it definitely has its good points.
Overall this was enjoyable. I liked the characters and some of the more unexpected aspects of the plot – Cate’s father and family, the silent support Dave gives without question. It has a nice bit of chemistry and although it is slow going for the most part, I never got bored and enjoyed it right to the finish. I’m a little sad that I came into this series right at the end, but I’m tempted to catch up with the rest of the books sometime – and if Dave’s sister ever gets her own tale, I’ll definitely want to read it.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
August 2, 2016
There was definitely more to this story than I thought there'd be. While an Ideal Man Wish List is a great focal point, the bigger story was why the list existed in the first place.
I don't know a single woman who has ever created a real Ideal Man Wish List. Every woman I know would say what she hoped the man she married would be like. Some wound up with him, some found love with someone who was the total opposite. This was Cate.
My heart bled for her as the tragedy of her past was revealed and I realized why she was dead set on finding a man who fulfilled every box on her checklist. But I was also elated that Dave was nothing like her Ideal Man. Because he was her Perfect Man.
He wasn't perfect in the flawless sense. He was perfect because he fit her. He made her feel appreciated, wanted, needed, and loved. To be truthful, I think that's what all women want in a partner, to feel all of those things without having to change to be those things.
There is a span of time when Cate and Dave separate. Now, my opinion, separation can be a good thing but forgiveness shouldn't be so easily given when the couple is brought back together again. The reason for separating is monumental. The path to happiness isn't paved with gold or smooth tiles. It requires work, and work means explanations and that internal struggle of forgiving or not forgiving. While I was happy they got together again, I wanted more of that internal struggle and the realization that forgiving was okay, that moving on together was completely possible.
I didn't read the other books in this series but this book reads (somewhat) as a standalone. I say somewhat because Cate's friends have already had their stories and they're featured in this one as well. Knowing something about each friend will help understand their roles in Cate's romance. Even without that knowledge, this is an enjoyable read. It's quirky and cute but emotional and evocative revolving around a tried and true trope many romance readers are familiar with and, possible, enjoy.
Received from publisher for an honest review
I don't know a single woman who has ever created a real Ideal Man Wish List. Every woman I know would say what she hoped the man she married would be like. Some wound up with him, some found love with someone who was the total opposite. This was Cate.
My heart bled for her as the tragedy of her past was revealed and I realized why she was dead set on finding a man who fulfilled every box on her checklist. But I was also elated that Dave was nothing like her Ideal Man. Because he was her Perfect Man.
He wasn't perfect in the flawless sense. He was perfect because he fit her. He made her feel appreciated, wanted, needed, and loved. To be truthful, I think that's what all women want in a partner, to feel all of those things without having to change to be those things.
There is a span of time when Cate and Dave separate. Now, my opinion, separation can be a good thing but forgiveness shouldn't be so easily given when the couple is brought back together again. The reason for separating is monumental. The path to happiness isn't paved with gold or smooth tiles. It requires work, and work means explanations and that internal struggle of forgiving or not forgiving. While I was happy they got together again, I wanted more of that internal struggle and the realization that forgiving was okay, that moving on together was completely possible.
I didn't read the other books in this series but this book reads (somewhat) as a standalone. I say somewhat because Cate's friends have already had their stories and they're featured in this one as well. Knowing something about each friend will help understand their roles in Cate's romance. Even without that knowledge, this is an enjoyable read. It's quirky and cute but emotional and evocative revolving around a tried and true trope many romance readers are familiar with and, possible, enjoy.
Received from publisher for an honest review
September 10, 2016
Cate is looking for love or is she. She has a list for everything and as her 3 best girlfriends have pointed to her so often. Cate has seen them all either get married or end up in a lasting relationship and she wonders if she is ever going to have that. When Dave falls into her life she wonders what its about him that makes her dream of the family she always has wanted when he ticks non of her boxes on her list. Will she be able to find a way to heal from the past and set aside the list or will she stick with the list and end up with someone else before its to late to see if he's really the guy for her?
What a fun love story. I found this book intense as some points, but it was really fun and not so intense it wasn't enjoyable. I did feel that there was something missing, I wish that the book would have been a back and forth between Cate and Dave so we would have got Dave's point of view as well. I enjoyed the story line and the characters were very relatable. I found the book hard to put down at points. This book does contain strong language and adult scenes so it may not be the book for everyone but its worth the read. I have never read any other of Belinda's books and can't wait to read more. Also this being the 4th book in the series it was not hard to catch up with what was going on but it would have been fun to read the other girls stories as well.
What a fun love story. I found this book intense as some points, but it was really fun and not so intense it wasn't enjoyable. I did feel that there was something missing, I wish that the book would have been a back and forth between Cate and Dave so we would have got Dave's point of view as well. I enjoyed the story line and the characters were very relatable. I found the book hard to put down at points. This book does contain strong language and adult scenes so it may not be the book for everyone but its worth the read. I have never read any other of Belinda's books and can't wait to read more. Also this being the 4th book in the series it was not hard to catch up with what was going on but it would have been fun to read the other girls stories as well.
Read
April 19, 2016Can I just start by saying wow?? Belinda Williams' new novel, Wish List, is one of my favorite novels I've read in quite some time. I was not familiar with the City Love series prior to reading this, but I will now most certainly go back to read the first three in the series.
Wish List is not only full of romance and a dreamy man, but has a fabulous story line and plot as well. Cate is the last single girl in her group of friends and has always had certain expectations of her dream man. Thanks to some water issues in her apartment one night, Dave enters her life, and it's impossible not to fall in love with him. However, right after they meet - this is what makes this novel so different - he isn't coming onto her, flirting, etc. He's just a quiet, cool, laid back guy. The development of Cate and Dave's relationship unfolds so naturally, not at all like some sappy, romantic fantasy, but like what most of us go through. Sometimes it's the one unlike what we imagined or dreamed of, that comes along and sweeps us off of our feet. Nothing appears forced or rushed in the writing, and I must say, Belinda Williams did an amazing job with a romance novel, without being too sexual or too graphic.
Even if you are not a huge fan of the romance genre, this book is wonderful. Yes, this novel has the pretty girl and the handsome guy, and yes this novel fills you with suspense about whether the couple will make it or not, but this novel is different. Belinda Williams has woven a wonderful mix of romance, desire, work ethics, family issues, and most importantly, the power of communication. If you have followed the City Love series, this most certainly will not disappoint, but even if you haven't read any of the series before, this is a must-read! Bravo to Belinda Williams and of course, to Cate and Dave :)
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wish List is not only full of romance and a dreamy man, but has a fabulous story line and plot as well. Cate is the last single girl in her group of friends and has always had certain expectations of her dream man. Thanks to some water issues in her apartment one night, Dave enters her life, and it's impossible not to fall in love with him. However, right after they meet - this is what makes this novel so different - he isn't coming onto her, flirting, etc. He's just a quiet, cool, laid back guy. The development of Cate and Dave's relationship unfolds so naturally, not at all like some sappy, romantic fantasy, but like what most of us go through. Sometimes it's the one unlike what we imagined or dreamed of, that comes along and sweeps us off of our feet. Nothing appears forced or rushed in the writing, and I must say, Belinda Williams did an amazing job with a romance novel, without being too sexual or too graphic.
Even if you are not a huge fan of the romance genre, this book is wonderful. Yes, this novel has the pretty girl and the handsome guy, and yes this novel fills you with suspense about whether the couple will make it or not, but this novel is different. Belinda Williams has woven a wonderful mix of romance, desire, work ethics, family issues, and most importantly, the power of communication. If you have followed the City Love series, this most certainly will not disappoint, but even if you haven't read any of the series before, this is a must-read! Bravo to Belinda Williams and of course, to Cate and Dave :)
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Author for an Honest Review***
Wish List: City Love 4 by Belinda Williams is the last book in the City Love Series and a book for all romantics.
I never got the opportunity to read the first three books in this series, but I found that it was not a requirement to be able to follow this story.
As we start this story we meet Cate Harmon, a financial planner who has a thing for creating lists. The funny thing about that is Cate’s friends are positive she has created a checklist to help her find the perfect man. Although she doesn’t deny it, she also refuses to settle for anything less. When Cate’s water heater bursts she finds herself at the mercy of Dave Worthington, a plumber who just happens to be close by.
For me this love story, which is a beautiful one by the way, progressed a little slower than I am used to reading. Please don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with that at all. I did find that by progressing at this pace, we were able to get some background history on Cate. It gave us insight as to why she is so pedantic with how she lives her life.
Then we progress to our plumber Dave……. A man who will intrigue you for most of the book, as he is one of those quiet types. Their interactions are always short and to the point to start with, that it made you wonder when you were going to get to the good bits. As the story plays out you discover that this is a man with a secret…. actually he is a man with many secrets.
Over all I found this to be a well written account of a girl with a past she would rather forget, trying to find her way in the world. I really did enjoy the storyline and would recommend it to others, but I would have just liked to have seen it progress a little faster.
This is a four star rating for me.
Reviewed by Stacey Johnston
Wish List: City Love 4 by Belinda Williams is the last book in the City Love Series and a book for all romantics.
I never got the opportunity to read the first three books in this series, but I found that it was not a requirement to be able to follow this story.
As we start this story we meet Cate Harmon, a financial planner who has a thing for creating lists. The funny thing about that is Cate’s friends are positive she has created a checklist to help her find the perfect man. Although she doesn’t deny it, she also refuses to settle for anything less. When Cate’s water heater bursts she finds herself at the mercy of Dave Worthington, a plumber who just happens to be close by.
For me this love story, which is a beautiful one by the way, progressed a little slower than I am used to reading. Please don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with that at all. I did find that by progressing at this pace, we were able to get some background history on Cate. It gave us insight as to why she is so pedantic with how she lives her life.
Then we progress to our plumber Dave……. A man who will intrigue you for most of the book, as he is one of those quiet types. Their interactions are always short and to the point to start with, that it made you wonder when you were going to get to the good bits. As the story plays out you discover that this is a man with a secret…. actually he is a man with many secrets.
Over all I found this to be a well written account of a girl with a past she would rather forget, trying to find her way in the world. I really did enjoy the storyline and would recommend it to others, but I would have just liked to have seen it progress a little faster.
This is a four star rating for me.
Reviewed by Stacey Johnston
April 18, 2016
*3.5 rounded up
So, I liked this. Surprising depth and even some darkness (primarily with Cate's family - they are definitely toxic!).
Cate's character was likable, but there were things about her that put me off. For instance, I didn't actually get the impression that she was as much of a romantic as everyone claimed. That may be because this was the first book in the series that I have read and it's the 4th. It was disappointing to me that Cate found out about Dave's wealth so quickly and the timing for that reveal wasn't great. She does more open to dating him soon after that, which doesn't dissuade you from thinking that she is a snob. I wanted her to find out about his wealth AFTER falling for him.
Dave was a bit too gruff for my tastes, though I did like him as well. The thing I liked most was how he treated people, generally being happy to help in any way that he could. The issues that came to light about his dad and how they were dealt with felt melodramatic.
The tension between the two was great though, and I liked them as a couple. They seemed to be well-matched.
I do wish this had more of a focus on her list, as it seemed to imply in the description. I had been under the impression that she was going to actually have a list that she took too seriously that included things like a certain eye color. Mostly, she wanted a rich guy who was successful and that's what she got. There wasn't a love triangle, despite the fact a few dates with a guy who "checked several boxes" were mentioned. I didn't ever believe that she cared much for James.
Overall, this was a nice read and likely a good ending to this series.
So, I liked this. Surprising depth and even some darkness (primarily with Cate's family - they are definitely toxic!).
Cate's character was likable, but there were things about her that put me off. For instance, I didn't actually get the impression that she was as much of a romantic as everyone claimed. That may be because this was the first book in the series that I have read and it's the 4th. It was disappointing to me that Cate found out about Dave's wealth so quickly and the timing for that reveal wasn't great. She does more open to dating him soon after that, which doesn't dissuade you from thinking that she is a snob. I wanted her to find out about his wealth AFTER falling for him.
Dave was a bit too gruff for my tastes, though I did like him as well. The thing I liked most was how he treated people, generally being happy to help in any way that he could. The issues that came to light about his dad and how they were dealt with felt melodramatic.
The tension between the two was great though, and I liked them as a couple. They seemed to be well-matched.
I do wish this had more of a focus on her list, as it seemed to imply in the description. I had been under the impression that she was going to actually have a list that she took too seriously that included things like a certain eye color. Mostly, she wanted a rich guy who was successful and that's what she got. There wasn't a love triangle, despite the fact a few dates with a guy who "checked several boxes" were mentioned. I didn't ever believe that she cared much for James.
Overall, this was a nice read and likely a good ending to this series.
June 3, 2016
This is book four in the City Love series, but you don't necessarily have to read the others to read this one. We're introduced to all of the characters in the first part of the book. Cater Harman is a financial planner and a hopeless romantic. She has a list of attributes her perfect mate would have. Then, during a water emergency in her apartment, she meets her plumber. Dave Worthington meets absolutely none of the criteria on Cate's list.
I wasn't crazy about Cate at first. When she was set up with a guy from her friend's wedding party who met all of her criteria, it was just nice. The romantic feelings were one sided, and not on her side, but she kept stringing him along. I loved her towards the end when she stood up for herself. There were a couple of awesome scenes where she redeemed herself for me.
Dave was so sweet and patient with Cate. He was super quiet at first. He had a love once and it didn't end well. He didn't want to open himself up and get hurt again. The one thing that annoyed me was even though Cate opened up to him, he still kept things to himself. There were a lot of secrets and family drama for both of them and then of course feelings of inadequacy.
While I did love the book, I also wish it was a litter faster paced. With all of the friends thrown in and events happening, I felt we didn't get as much on Cate's and Dave as we could have. Even still, it was well written and a good read for a quiet day.
June 3, 2016
I thought Wish List was a great read. I didn't really know what to expect since I went into this book blindly. It's also the first of Belinda's books that I've read, and I wasn't disapointed.
Cate is a financial planner who is extremely single, and its something no one lets her forget. All of her friends are moving on with their love lives and Cate is left with no-one to go home to at night. She's a huge fan of lists, and one in particular is her wish list, for the perfect guy. Once she meets Dave, the plumber, when she has a horrible leak, she thinks right away that she could never be with him despite how gorgeous he is, because he doesn't meet the requirements of her wish list. Both Cate and Dave had secrets. They both had a past.
Cate and Dave's story was a great story, full of angst and just a beautiful love story. Belinda did a great job with Wish List. I will definitely read more from her!
Cate is a financial planner who is extremely single, and its something no one lets her forget. All of her friends are moving on with their love lives and Cate is left with no-one to go home to at night. She's a huge fan of lists, and one in particular is her wish list, for the perfect guy. Once she meets Dave, the plumber, when she has a horrible leak, she thinks right away that she could never be with him despite how gorgeous he is, because he doesn't meet the requirements of her wish list. Both Cate and Dave had secrets. They both had a past.
Cate and Dave's story was a great story, full of angst and just a beautiful love story. Belinda did a great job with Wish List. I will definitely read more from her!
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