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North Pole, Minnesota #1
Any Boy But You
Elena Chestnut has been chatting with an anonymous boy late into the night. It’s a very You’ve Got Mail situation, and she has no idea who he is. He can’t be Oliver Prince, hot-and-bashful son of the family running the rival sporting goods store. Their fancy sales strategies are driving Elena’s family out of business. Elena’s mystery boy has teamed up with her in their latest sales strategy, an augmented reality game, to help her win the grand-prize plane tickets. Money’s so tight Elena’s going to miss senior year spring break with her friends if she can’t win this game.
The girl Oliver's fallen head-over-heels for online had better not be Elena Chestnut. She's his angry, vindictive Latin tutor, the daughter of his dad’s business rival, and the one girl he’d never even think of kissing. She’s definitely not his online crush, because that girl is funny, sweet, and perfect.
When Oliver asks to reveal their names at the Valentine’s Day dance, their IRL relationship will either ruin what they have online, or they’ll discover just how thin the line between love and hate really is.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains swearing, snowball fights, and sexual tension that could melt the North Pole. Read at your own risk.
The girl Oliver's fallen head-over-heels for online had better not be Elena Chestnut. She's his angry, vindictive Latin tutor, the daughter of his dad’s business rival, and the one girl he’d never even think of kissing. She’s definitely not his online crush, because that girl is funny, sweet, and perfect.
When Oliver asks to reveal their names at the Valentine’s Day dance, their IRL relationship will either ruin what they have online, or they’ll discover just how thin the line between love and hate really is.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains swearing, snowball fights, and sexual tension that could melt the North Pole. Read at your own risk.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2017
About the author
Julie Hammerle
8 books230 followersUSA Today best-selling, RITA nominated author Julie Hammerle writes romantic comedies for adults and teens. Before settling down to write "for real," she studied opera, taught Latin, and held her real estate license for one hot minute. Currently, aside from writing, she ropes people into conversations about Game of Thrones and makes excuses to avoid the gym. Her favorite YA-centric TV shows include 90210 (original spice), Felicity, and Freaks and Geeks. Her iPod reads like a 1997 Lilith Fair set list.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
December 12, 2017
Any Boy But You is a superbly cute tale set in a town called North Pole where the Christmas season lasts all year long. It reminds me of a fluffy, less angsty Romeo and Juliet story.
Elena Chestnut is struggling to come to terms with the fact that her family’s sporting goods business is in trouble. They’re barely staying afloat, and her parents are thinking of moving away. It doesn’t help that her arch enemies and business rivals, the Princes, are thriving.
To make matters worse, the Prince son - Oliver Prince - has created a Pokemon-Go style game named Stash Grab that’s making the Princes even hotter than ever. Elena refuses to play it at first, simply because a Prince created it. But after seeing all the townspeople she knows playing it nonstop and not knowing how to answer most of the questions, she decides she will enter the game with her remarkable trove of sports trivia.
That’s when she starts chatting with an anonymous person online, and behind the safety of an avatar, they tell each other more and more personal information. Little does she know that the person she’s chatting with is none other than Oliver Prince. Elena then struggles to combine his online persona to the person she knows in real life, because she just can’t believe they’re the same person.
Meanwhile, Oliver refuses to believe that the girl he’s talking to online is Elena Chestnut. Elena is his snobby, hostile Latin tutor, she hates him, and they’re arch enemies… but the girl online is funny, sweet, and understanding. She’s perfect. She can’t be Elena.
So both Elena and Oliver find themselves slowly falling for each other, but neither of them knows the real identity of the person they’re talking to. When all is revealed, hints are dropped, clues point to answers and everything is out in the open… will they hate each other even more, or will they pursue their mutual feelings? There is, after all, a very fine line between hate and love.
The Chestnut versus Prince family feud was set up from the very beginning, and it’s the reason why I thought this book was a little like Romeo and Juliet. I was rather curious as to how Julie Hammerle would pull off the enemies-to-lovers trope, and I was certainly not disappointed. I loved the journey because there was not a hint of instalove. The generations-long feud between the Chestnuts and the Princes has always affected Oliver’s and Elena’s interactions with each other in real life, but now both of them slowly start to see each other for who they really are. Before, they didn’t know why they had to hate each other, just that they did, and there was a little history behind the feud too that was interesting and shocking at the same time.
The unsung heroine in this story is definitely Elena’s best friend Harper. Her story of figuring out her sexuality was one that I thought was really important. Also, her friendship with Oliver and her willingness to reach out to him and offer advice was adorable. She was a loyal, caring and witty friend, and I thought her presence should not be diminished in the story.
Sometimes you just need to read an amazing, feel-good book that unleashes all the warm fuzzy emotions inside you. That’s exactly what Any Boy But You does. It’s a book filled with fun and humor and did I mention snow? Impossibly charming, and it looks like the author created the world right out of a Hallmark movie. I’ve been having a drought of adorable, sweet, cheesy contemporary romance books in my life, so I’m glad that I read this book. I thoroughly loved it, and I definitely recommend it for a quick and fun read. A sweet winter romance that will leave your heart fluttering - perfect for rom-com fans!
Elena Chestnut is struggling to come to terms with the fact that her family’s sporting goods business is in trouble. They’re barely staying afloat, and her parents are thinking of moving away. It doesn’t help that her arch enemies and business rivals, the Princes, are thriving.
To make matters worse, the Prince son - Oliver Prince - has created a Pokemon-Go style game named Stash Grab that’s making the Princes even hotter than ever. Elena refuses to play it at first, simply because a Prince created it. But after seeing all the townspeople she knows playing it nonstop and not knowing how to answer most of the questions, she decides she will enter the game with her remarkable trove of sports trivia.
That’s when she starts chatting with an anonymous person online, and behind the safety of an avatar, they tell each other more and more personal information. Little does she know that the person she’s chatting with is none other than Oliver Prince. Elena then struggles to combine his online persona to the person she knows in real life, because she just can’t believe they’re the same person.
Meanwhile, Oliver refuses to believe that the girl he’s talking to online is Elena Chestnut. Elena is his snobby, hostile Latin tutor, she hates him, and they’re arch enemies… but the girl online is funny, sweet, and understanding. She’s perfect. She can’t be Elena.
So both Elena and Oliver find themselves slowly falling for each other, but neither of them knows the real identity of the person they’re talking to. When all is revealed, hints are dropped, clues point to answers and everything is out in the open… will they hate each other even more, or will they pursue their mutual feelings? There is, after all, a very fine line between hate and love.
The Chestnut versus Prince family feud was set up from the very beginning, and it’s the reason why I thought this book was a little like Romeo and Juliet. I was rather curious as to how Julie Hammerle would pull off the enemies-to-lovers trope, and I was certainly not disappointed. I loved the journey because there was not a hint of instalove. The generations-long feud between the Chestnuts and the Princes has always affected Oliver’s and Elena’s interactions with each other in real life, but now both of them slowly start to see each other for who they really are. Before, they didn’t know why they had to hate each other, just that they did, and there was a little history behind the feud too that was interesting and shocking at the same time.
The unsung heroine in this story is definitely Elena’s best friend Harper. Her story of figuring out her sexuality was one that I thought was really important. Also, her friendship with Oliver and her willingness to reach out to him and offer advice was adorable. She was a loyal, caring and witty friend, and I thought her presence should not be diminished in the story.
Sometimes you just need to read an amazing, feel-good book that unleashes all the warm fuzzy emotions inside you. That’s exactly what Any Boy But You does. It’s a book filled with fun and humor and did I mention snow? Impossibly charming, and it looks like the author created the world right out of a Hallmark movie. I’ve been having a drought of adorable, sweet, cheesy contemporary romance books in my life, so I’m glad that I read this book. I thoroughly loved it, and I definitely recommend it for a quick and fun read. A sweet winter romance that will leave your heart fluttering - perfect for rom-com fans!
February 7, 2017
2.5 stars
I loved the premise of this. I adore the idea of arch enemies secretly falling for each other even though they don't know it. Sadly it fell a bit flat for me.
I liked Elena and Oliver well enough. They're both standoffish and sort of bitchy, but it's mostly due to a ridiculous feud that's been going on between their families. And man, did that cause a lot of dramatics throughout the story.
When Elena and Oliver started acting nicer to each other, the banter between them was cute and it was easy to root for them. Perhaps my downfall came from the Pokemon Go-like game that was the basis of the plot. I didn't get why people loved that game, and that carried over into reading this.
Overall, it was cute and I was intrigued to see how it ended, but it was also a little overdramatic for me. I'm not sure if I would read any others in the series.
**Huge thanks to Entangled Teen and NetGalley for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved the premise of this. I adore the idea of arch enemies secretly falling for each other even though they don't know it. Sadly it fell a bit flat for me.
I liked Elena and Oliver well enough. They're both standoffish and sort of bitchy, but it's mostly due to a ridiculous feud that's been going on between their families. And man, did that cause a lot of dramatics throughout the story.
When Elena and Oliver started acting nicer to each other, the banter between them was cute and it was easy to root for them. Perhaps my downfall came from the Pokemon Go-like game that was the basis of the plot. I didn't get why people loved that game, and that carried over into reading this.
Overall, it was cute and I was intrigued to see how it ended, but it was also a little overdramatic for me. I'm not sure if I would read any others in the series.
**Huge thanks to Entangled Teen and NetGalley for providing the arc free of charge**
February 8, 2017
Finally something to end my disappointing books streak.
I was sold when I read You've Got Mail in the summary, and it delivered.
This was a cute read. Mrs. Hammerle's writing style is super; she managed to intertwine this book with great characters, a fun romance, while at the same time touching on some serious subjects too. It was all well executed. I had a hard time putting it down, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
I was sold when I read You've Got Mail in the summary, and it delivered.
This was a cute read. Mrs. Hammerle's writing style is super; she managed to intertwine this book with great characters, a fun romance, while at the same time touching on some serious subjects too. It was all well executed. I had a hard time putting it down, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 23, 2017
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Most contemporary books that are out there tend to happen during the summer, and at this time of year, I like to read more wintery stories. When I heard about this book, especially with its enemies to lovers trope, I knew it would be for me, and I was right.
In Any Boy But You, our main character, Elena, is struggling to come to terms with the fact that her families business is in trouble, and she may have to move away. It doesn't help that her arch enemies, the Prince family, have a similar business that's thriving. They even create an app, similar to Pokemon Go, where users walk around their town of North Pole, Minnesota, looking for sports questions to answer, and the person with the most at the end of the game would win big prizes from the Prince store. Elena, initially, wants nothing to do wit the game, but soon starts playing just to see what the hype is all about. When she discovers a chat feature in the game, she finds herself talking to another player nearly all the time, and slowly falls for them. The problem, she doesn't know who it is, and when she discovers that it's in fact Oliver Prince, she can't reconcile his in life persona, to his online one.
Oliver, on the other hand, feels very the same. He knows Elena as a snobby Latin tutor, his arch enemy, and she's nothing like the funny girl he's been talking to online. However, he soon builds up the courage to ask her to the Valentine's dance, even though it could cause more problems than it'll fix.
This book was so cute! I read it in one day, and flew through it. It had just the right about of feels and angst, and both Elena and Oliver were characters I could understand and relate to. I love books with an enemy to lovers trope, and this book fit all requirements I could have. Even the secondary characters, like Oliver's sister, and both their parents had really good story lines, running along in tandem to the main part of the story.
I can't wait to read more in this series, which I'm expecting will be a companion series, rather than a proper sequel, but I hope to find out more about Elena and Oliver in future books.
Most contemporary books that are out there tend to happen during the summer, and at this time of year, I like to read more wintery stories. When I heard about this book, especially with its enemies to lovers trope, I knew it would be for me, and I was right.
In Any Boy But You, our main character, Elena, is struggling to come to terms with the fact that her families business is in trouble, and she may have to move away. It doesn't help that her arch enemies, the Prince family, have a similar business that's thriving. They even create an app, similar to Pokemon Go, where users walk around their town of North Pole, Minnesota, looking for sports questions to answer, and the person with the most at the end of the game would win big prizes from the Prince store. Elena, initially, wants nothing to do wit the game, but soon starts playing just to see what the hype is all about. When she discovers a chat feature in the game, she finds herself talking to another player nearly all the time, and slowly falls for them. The problem, she doesn't know who it is, and when she discovers that it's in fact Oliver Prince, she can't reconcile his in life persona, to his online one.
Oliver, on the other hand, feels very the same. He knows Elena as a snobby Latin tutor, his arch enemy, and she's nothing like the funny girl he's been talking to online. However, he soon builds up the courage to ask her to the Valentine's dance, even though it could cause more problems than it'll fix.
This book was so cute! I read it in one day, and flew through it. It had just the right about of feels and angst, and both Elena and Oliver were characters I could understand and relate to. I love books with an enemy to lovers trope, and this book fit all requirements I could have. Even the secondary characters, like Oliver's sister, and both their parents had really good story lines, running along in tandem to the main part of the story.
I can't wait to read more in this series, which I'm expecting will be a companion series, rather than a proper sequel, but I hope to find out more about Elena and Oliver in future books.
February 19, 2018
I love this series. I've read the books out of order but their all standalone stories so it doesn't really matter. The North Pole is my favourite fictional town and I can't wait to see what Julie Hammerle will come up with next.
When I read the synopsis of this book I expected the story to be sweet, but predictable. What I got was so much more. Any boy but you, wasn't the fiery hate relationship I was expecting.
Elena and Oliver are on opposite sides. They are literally working on opposite sides of the road. Their families both run sports shops in the North Pole. Their grandparents started the shop as a partnership but a long-running feud has turned these two families into a modern day, Romeo and Juliet.
Oliver is a twin his sisters is Miss Popular. Oliver would rather play video games and live the life of a hermit. His school grades are average and he doesn't have many friends. His mum has decided enough is enough. He needs to improve his life and get out more. Oliver has created a game which is designed to boost sales in the sports shop. Now his mum has put him on a technology diet he has to hand the reins to his sister.
Elena knows her family business is in trouble, but she doesn't realise how bad it is. They have let all their employees go and Elena is working a lot of hours. She has given up running for the school and her free time is now spent at the shop. Her best friend Harper has been really busy lately and Elena finds herself drawn to Oliver's game. Everyone around town is playing it and 1st prize is her summer break dream. Elena is approached to tutor Oliver and the money is too good to turn down. They struggle to get on and survive the sessions.
Oliver wants to check up on his game and the only way he can is to join as a player. He isn't trying to win he just wants to see his masters piece. What he finds is an online chat with an amazing girl. She's funny, interesting and has Oliver wanting a social life for once. They don't know who each other is but there are lots of people in the North Pole surely it can't be the one person he hates the most.
The side story of this book is Harper's story. She hooks up with Oliver's twin and she realises girls may not be a passing thought. I hope Harper gets her own story. She's an interesting character and I want to see her find love.
5 stars out of 5. Great Read.
When I read the synopsis of this book I expected the story to be sweet, but predictable. What I got was so much more. Any boy but you, wasn't the fiery hate relationship I was expecting.
Elena and Oliver are on opposite sides. They are literally working on opposite sides of the road. Their families both run sports shops in the North Pole. Their grandparents started the shop as a partnership but a long-running feud has turned these two families into a modern day, Romeo and Juliet.
Oliver is a twin his sisters is Miss Popular. Oliver would rather play video games and live the life of a hermit. His school grades are average and he doesn't have many friends. His mum has decided enough is enough. He needs to improve his life and get out more. Oliver has created a game which is designed to boost sales in the sports shop. Now his mum has put him on a technology diet he has to hand the reins to his sister.
Elena knows her family business is in trouble, but she doesn't realise how bad it is. They have let all their employees go and Elena is working a lot of hours. She has given up running for the school and her free time is now spent at the shop. Her best friend Harper has been really busy lately and Elena finds herself drawn to Oliver's game. Everyone around town is playing it and 1st prize is her summer break dream. Elena is approached to tutor Oliver and the money is too good to turn down. They struggle to get on and survive the sessions.
Oliver wants to check up on his game and the only way he can is to join as a player. He isn't trying to win he just wants to see his masters piece. What he finds is an online chat with an amazing girl. She's funny, interesting and has Oliver wanting a social life for once. They don't know who each other is but there are lots of people in the North Pole surely it can't be the one person he hates the most.
The side story of this book is Harper's story. She hooks up with Oliver's twin and she realises girls may not be a passing thought. I hope Harper gets her own story. She's an interesting character and I want to see her find love.
5 stars out of 5. Great Read.
June 1, 2017
super easy read. read it in a day. but it's very infuriating due to how juvenile the characters and writing are.
February 8, 2017
Any Boy But You
Julie Hammerle
Received from Netgalley
ANY BOY BUT YOU by Julie Hammerle is the first book in the North Pole, Minnesota series.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains swearing, snowball fights, and sexual tension that could melt the North Pole. Read at your own risk.
ANY BOY BUT YOU is the story of Elena and Oliver. Their families are rivals as both families own sporting goods stores, but lately both stores are really really slow. Oliver comes up with a Pokemon Go type of game to bring some traffic to the Prince store. Elena knows she has to come up with something to help her family as well, but right now she has accepted Mrs. Prince's offer to tutor Oliver.........her arch enemy. Elena agrees to do it because she wants to earn money for Spring Break and knows her parents won't be able to help her.
I really felt bad for Elena and Oliver. They didn't know why they were supposed to hate each other, just that they did. They had no idea what the history behind the feud was and when they find out, they are shocked. At the same time, they start texting each other on the game APP but don't know who they are talking to as they have user names not real names. I really enjoyed the banter between Elena and Oliver and I totally got why she would think ANY BOY BUT YOU. What will happen when they find out the truth of who they are texting? Will their feelings of hate grow or will they pursue how they really feel?
ANY BOY BUT YOU is a very cute, sweet, Teen romance. I really enjoyed learning the history behind the feud of these two families. If you like You've Got Mail and Gilmore Girls you are going to love this story. I've never read anything by Julie Hammerle, but I really enjoyed ANY BOY BUT YOU and look forward to reading more by this refreshing author.
Julie Hammerle
Received from Netgalley
ANY BOY BUT YOU by Julie Hammerle is the first book in the North Pole, Minnesota series.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains swearing, snowball fights, and sexual tension that could melt the North Pole. Read at your own risk.
ANY BOY BUT YOU is the story of Elena and Oliver. Their families are rivals as both families own sporting goods stores, but lately both stores are really really slow. Oliver comes up with a Pokemon Go type of game to bring some traffic to the Prince store. Elena knows she has to come up with something to help her family as well, but right now she has accepted Mrs. Prince's offer to tutor Oliver.........her arch enemy. Elena agrees to do it because she wants to earn money for Spring Break and knows her parents won't be able to help her.
I really felt bad for Elena and Oliver. They didn't know why they were supposed to hate each other, just that they did. They had no idea what the history behind the feud was and when they find out, they are shocked. At the same time, they start texting each other on the game APP but don't know who they are talking to as they have user names not real names. I really enjoyed the banter between Elena and Oliver and I totally got why she would think ANY BOY BUT YOU. What will happen when they find out the truth of who they are texting? Will their feelings of hate grow or will they pursue how they really feel?
ANY BOY BUT YOU is a very cute, sweet, Teen romance. I really enjoyed learning the history behind the feud of these two families. If you like You've Got Mail and Gilmore Girls you are going to love this story. I've never read anything by Julie Hammerle, but I really enjoyed ANY BOY BUT YOU and look forward to reading more by this refreshing author.
February 21, 2017
I really liked this young adult story that reminded me of those Shakespearian tragedies that featured families that had feuds lasting generations but had a romance entangled in it.
Elena Chestnut worked in her family’s sporting goods store which was struggling to keeping afloat thanks to the rival sporting goods store run by Oliver Prince’s family. Right from the beginning, the author set up the Chestnut versus Prince family feud. Thanks to the title, I already suspected how the story would conclude, but I was curious as to how the author would get the readers from loathing to love. I was really impressed by how the author wove the story around the Stash Grab app, which reminded me of the Pokémon Go that was all the rage this summer, and it really worked in keeping the story fresh.
I enjoyed the journey because it was not insta-love. The Chestnut – Prince feud was exasperating but betrayal is often the cause of long-lasting grudges. What I found thought-provoking was the parent’s indifference to the effects of their grudges on their children and the community. This self-centered attitude was evident in Elena and Oliver’s actions towards each other as well as their neighbors. I am glad that the main characters all grew as people and made better life choices. It was encouraging to witness characters develop as the story unfolded. I really ended up liking Oliver and Elena whereas in the beginning I didn’t really care for their attitudes.
The author’s writing was entertaining and the plot was laid out really well. I found the characters to be likable especially Elena, Oliver and Harper. The unsung heroes here were Harper and Oliver’s mom. The mother because her intervention caused Oliver to exist outside his computer and Harper because she was the link between Elena and Oliver. The second half of this story was a little more angst-filled and I was even more captivated by secrets that I could clearly see would blow up in people’s faces. I took pleasure in how Elena and Oliver got together and the effect on their families.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a light and charming read with a fresh twist on the enemy to lovers trope.
*Special Thanks to Entangled Crush via Netgalley for the e-arc given in exchange for an honest review.
Elena Chestnut worked in her family’s sporting goods store which was struggling to keeping afloat thanks to the rival sporting goods store run by Oliver Prince’s family. Right from the beginning, the author set up the Chestnut versus Prince family feud. Thanks to the title, I already suspected how the story would conclude, but I was curious as to how the author would get the readers from loathing to love. I was really impressed by how the author wove the story around the Stash Grab app, which reminded me of the Pokémon Go that was all the rage this summer, and it really worked in keeping the story fresh.
I enjoyed the journey because it was not insta-love. The Chestnut – Prince feud was exasperating but betrayal is often the cause of long-lasting grudges. What I found thought-provoking was the parent’s indifference to the effects of their grudges on their children and the community. This self-centered attitude was evident in Elena and Oliver’s actions towards each other as well as their neighbors. I am glad that the main characters all grew as people and made better life choices. It was encouraging to witness characters develop as the story unfolded. I really ended up liking Oliver and Elena whereas in the beginning I didn’t really care for their attitudes.
The author’s writing was entertaining and the plot was laid out really well. I found the characters to be likable especially Elena, Oliver and Harper. The unsung heroes here were Harper and Oliver’s mom. The mother because her intervention caused Oliver to exist outside his computer and Harper because she was the link between Elena and Oliver. The second half of this story was a little more angst-filled and I was even more captivated by secrets that I could clearly see would blow up in people’s faces. I took pleasure in how Elena and Oliver got together and the effect on their families.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a light and charming read with a fresh twist on the enemy to lovers trope.
*Special Thanks to Entangled Crush via Netgalley for the e-arc given in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2017
Oh boy, oh boy!!! I'm pretty sure this book was made for me! I'm a HUGE fan of You've Got Mail (I couldn't even tell you how many times I've seen that movie, but I've always loved it!!!), and I absolutely adore Gilmore Girls! Add in a star-crossed lovers/dueling families element and you get Any Boy But You!
This book was adorable and I really, really didn't want to put it down...the morning after finishing it, I was suffering from some serious sleep deprivation because I actually refused to put it down until I was done, but I absolutely loved every moment of it! Oliver and Elena were fantastic characters, and I loved that the book showed both of their POVs, and I really loved seeing all of the quirky elements of their town, North Pole!
Sometimes you just need to read a great feel-good story that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside and that's exactly what Any Boy But You does! I loved how Oliver and Elena's relationship built, and I really loved how the game that Oliver designed, which was very Pokemon Go-esque, tied in with their budding relationship. It was believable, but also soooooo picturesque and so perfect for their charcters! And the town of North Pole gave me serious Stars Hollow feels which I absolutely loved, too. There were just so many moments in this book that I just could not stop smiling, and I'm definitely looking forward to reading it again!
Overall, I absolutely loved Any Boy But You! It's perfect for rom-com fans, especially if like me you love both You've Got Mail and Gilmore Girls!
This book was adorable and I really, really didn't want to put it down...the morning after finishing it, I was suffering from some serious sleep deprivation because I actually refused to put it down until I was done, but I absolutely loved every moment of it! Oliver and Elena were fantastic characters, and I loved that the book showed both of their POVs, and I really loved seeing all of the quirky elements of their town, North Pole!
Sometimes you just need to read a great feel-good story that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside and that's exactly what Any Boy But You does! I loved how Oliver and Elena's relationship built, and I really loved how the game that Oliver designed, which was very Pokemon Go-esque, tied in with their budding relationship. It was believable, but also soooooo picturesque and so perfect for their charcters! And the town of North Pole gave me serious Stars Hollow feels which I absolutely loved, too. There were just so many moments in this book that I just could not stop smiling, and I'm definitely looking forward to reading it again!
Overall, I absolutely loved Any Boy But You! It's perfect for rom-com fans, especially if like me you love both You've Got Mail and Gilmore Girls!
February 14, 2017
What seemed to be a convoluted plot made for a nice romantic comedy.
Elena sees her family business go down the drain when their rivals for generations create a new game that becomes a craze in their small town. When she decides to give the game a try, she meets someone, a new friend. And she has no idea it is Oliver, the very creator of said game. Oliver is just too socially awkward and now he is grounded, without his computer until his Latin grade go up and forced to be tutored by the rivals' heiress, he can only check for bugs from a dummy account, where he unknowingly starts sharing secrets with none other than Elena.
While I knew this used the anonymous letters trope, I hadn't noticed the rival families one as well, and in the beginning I wasn't so sure all this could work—it didn't help it initially made me believe that above all, best friends would compete for the same boy but I was fortunately wrong. I was very wrong about many things for this book.
To be honest, this isn't a full 4-starsbut more of a 3.5. It is still close to average. But there is a different flavor to much of it. For example, Oliver's personality was surprising to me. He is super awkward and even though he was able to create an app game that was the town equivalent of Pokémon Go, his grades at school are basically C's, and he's failing Latin. In other words, far from the brainy cliché I expected. And oh my, is he cute! I wanted to adopt him even when he misbehaved. This was a book that made me believe the character flaws, which is rare in YA's and in romances in general, in my opinion.
The family rivalry bit wasn't as big as I had thought it would be. It is essential to the plot but the author didn't waste my time proving her point. In fact, she didn't waste my time at all. This book had a quick pace that could have made me read in one sitting had I had the time when I started.
In all, I don't think this can be fully enjoyed by those who aren't into romance. Nonetheless, this is a good YA I don't want any fan of YA's or romance missing.
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
Elena sees her family business go down the drain when their rivals for generations create a new game that becomes a craze in their small town. When she decides to give the game a try, she meets someone, a new friend. And she has no idea it is Oliver, the very creator of said game. Oliver is just too socially awkward and now he is grounded, without his computer until his Latin grade go up and forced to be tutored by the rivals' heiress, he can only check for bugs from a dummy account, where he unknowingly starts sharing secrets with none other than Elena.
While I knew this used the anonymous letters trope, I hadn't noticed the rival families one as well, and in the beginning I wasn't so sure all this could work—it didn't help it initially made me believe that above all, best friends would compete for the same boy but I was fortunately wrong. I was very wrong about many things for this book.
To be honest, this isn't a full 4-starsbut more of a 3.5. It is still close to average. But there is a different flavor to much of it. For example, Oliver's personality was surprising to me. He is super awkward and even though he was able to create an app game that was the town equivalent of Pokémon Go, his grades at school are basically C's, and he's failing Latin. In other words, far from the brainy cliché I expected. And oh my, is he cute! I wanted to adopt him even when he misbehaved. This was a book that made me believe the character flaws, which is rare in YA's and in romances in general, in my opinion.
The family rivalry bit wasn't as big as I had thought it would be. It is essential to the plot but the author didn't waste my time proving her point. In fact, she didn't waste my time at all. This book had a quick pace that could have made me read in one sitting had I had the time when I started.
In all, I don't think this can be fully enjoyed by those who aren't into romance. Nonetheless, this is a good YA I don't want any fan of YA's or romance missing.
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
February 19, 2017
Super cute story set in a town that celebrates Christmas 365 days of the year in a quirk way that'll remind readers of Stars Hollow, Connecticut from Gilmore Girls, but where gay, lesbian and bisexual characters are relatively common. It's You've Got Mail for the Pokémon Go generation, but that doesn't mean that the characters, including the characters are infallible. They're flawed, but that just made me love them more. Can't wait for the next two books in the series.
February 7, 2017
*This book was received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This was an okay read. I liked that through the app Oliver and Elena unwittingly fell in love with each other although in real life they are sworn enemies. I did find the book hard to get into at first due to the coldness of Elena's character, however I also see it is necessary to show her character development as by the end of the book she is much more sympathetic and overall just pleasant. I did however find parts of the story frustrating such as the continued feud between the families and the plot twist wasn't that unexpected or shocking. Overall, this was a light and quick read with some ups and downs.
This was an okay read. I liked that through the app Oliver and Elena unwittingly fell in love with each other although in real life they are sworn enemies. I did find the book hard to get into at first due to the coldness of Elena's character, however I also see it is necessary to show her character development as by the end of the book she is much more sympathetic and overall just pleasant. I did however find parts of the story frustrating such as the continued feud between the families and the plot twist wasn't that unexpected or shocking. Overall, this was a light and quick read with some ups and downs.
February 24, 2017
Sweet, funny, tons of heart. It's the post-Christmas, Stars-Hollow, snowball-fights-and-boyfriends book you've been waiting for.
February 14, 2017
I have had a drought of adorable, cheesy books in my life. That’s right – this Book Princess has been reading serious books. Books full of non-cliches, not as much funnies for no reason, and a ton of originality. Don’t worry, I’m cringing for myself. When I saw this book on Netgalley, I knew that I instantly had to request it and feel the cheesiness and adorableness fill my book life.And that’s surely what I got.
This book was pretty adorable. I loved the whole idea of North Pole, Minnesota. I’m not sure this town actually exists, but I kind of want to go there. It’s a super small town where everyone knows everyone, and it’s Christmas themed all year round. There’s Santabucks instead of Starbucks. Like, how cute is that?? Okay, not so cute if you’re not a Christmas dork. However, I really appreciated all the creativity that Hammerle put in to creating this town and how it added to her overall concept. I felt like this town was truly another character in the book.
Another huge part that I loved was the addition of Harper. Harper is Elena’s best friend, and of course, I assumed she would be the stereotypical contemporary best friend. She would be witty, sassy, only there to wake the main character up when they were being stupid, and provide the funnies. However, Harper became so much more than that as she struggled her way through identity issues. I guessed her secret from the beginning, but it was super interesting to go through the journey with her. I loved how the author took this usual throwaway character and added a lot to her and didn’t just become the cliche best friend that Elena would have some big fight and lose.
The plot was super cool as well. Feuding families is nothing new, but I loved the whole addition of the Pokemon Go-esque app that was driving this town mad and how Elena and Oliver started talking due to it. It was a super cute way for them to connect, and I thought the app was such a cool and unique addition.
Now, you’re probably reading this going, “Mandy, you’re fangirling hard right now. Why the four stars?” The issue for me came in the romance. Don’t get me wrong – I did enjoy Elena and Oliver together, and I thought they were adorable. I totally shipped them. However, the issue lies in the love-hate relationship. I think the hate part went on far longer than it should have to be realistic. It kind of just switched one day, and I wasn’t completely sold due to the fact that Elena was just so mean to him and then did a complete 180. I would have liked a bit more of a slower turn, and it ruined a bit of the middle half for me.
Overall, though, this book was exactly what I needed. It was adorable, cheesiness, and so much fun. It was more than that, though, and it truly added some originality to the fluffy contemporary genre. There were some issues with it with the love/hate relationship, but it didn’t deter too much from my reading. Four crowns for this snowy book, and a visit from Ariel!
Check out more of my reviews here!
This book was pretty adorable. I loved the whole idea of North Pole, Minnesota. I’m not sure this town actually exists, but I kind of want to go there. It’s a super small town where everyone knows everyone, and it’s Christmas themed all year round. There’s Santabucks instead of Starbucks. Like, how cute is that?? Okay, not so cute if you’re not a Christmas dork. However, I really appreciated all the creativity that Hammerle put in to creating this town and how it added to her overall concept. I felt like this town was truly another character in the book.
Another huge part that I loved was the addition of Harper. Harper is Elena’s best friend, and of course, I assumed she would be the stereotypical contemporary best friend. She would be witty, sassy, only there to wake the main character up when they were being stupid, and provide the funnies. However, Harper became so much more than that as she struggled her way through identity issues. I guessed her secret from the beginning, but it was super interesting to go through the journey with her. I loved how the author took this usual throwaway character and added a lot to her and didn’t just become the cliche best friend that Elena would have some big fight and lose.
The plot was super cool as well. Feuding families is nothing new, but I loved the whole addition of the Pokemon Go-esque app that was driving this town mad and how Elena and Oliver started talking due to it. It was a super cute way for them to connect, and I thought the app was such a cool and unique addition.
Now, you’re probably reading this going, “Mandy, you’re fangirling hard right now. Why the four stars?” The issue for me came in the romance. Don’t get me wrong – I did enjoy Elena and Oliver together, and I thought they were adorable. I totally shipped them. However, the issue lies in the love-hate relationship. I think the hate part went on far longer than it should have to be realistic. It kind of just switched one day, and I wasn’t completely sold due to the fact that Elena was just so mean to him and then did a complete 180. I would have liked a bit more of a slower turn, and it ruined a bit of the middle half for me.
Overall, though, this book was exactly what I needed. It was adorable, cheesiness, and so much fun. It was more than that, though, and it truly added some originality to the fluffy contemporary genre. There were some issues with it with the love/hate relationship, but it didn’t deter too much from my reading. Four crowns for this snowy book, and a visit from Ariel!
Check out more of my reviews here!
February 20, 2017
Read full review HERE
This was yet another book that was part of my “I don’t have a clue how many books I’ve requested for February, but it should be fine“… SPOILER ALERT: It wasn’t! I ended up with way too many books to read this month, but I digress. This sounded cute and different, so I’m glad I got to read it.
This was my first book by Julie Hammerle and I did enjoy the writing. The book is told in dual POV, on the third person.
One of the biggest differences from other YA cute contemporary romances, is the fact that a lot is going on in this book. The story has a lot of different elements, and while that makes the story well rounded and complex, it also made the plot very slow. A little bit too slow for my taste.
I liked the story of the feud, though it irked me a bit the amount of hate that Elena and Oliver had between them. This made it difficult to connect and like them sometimes, especially Elena, who was constantly rude and irrational when it came to Oliver, even when he was nothing but nice and honest with her. The fact that I didn’t really connect with the characters, took a bit away from my connection with the book itself.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Harper, and I’m really hoping book 2 is about her. But again, while I enjoyed the moments between Elena and Harper, who had been BFFs for a long time, it was the new friendship between Oliver and Harper that won my heart. Oliver was an introvert who didn’t quite know how to make friends, but he cared about Harper and he helped her sort out her feelings and thoughts without ever judging or pressuring her. I really really loved these moments.
The romance was cute, and I liked that they got to know each other well through the chat before finding out who they were, because they wouldn’t have given each other the chance otherwise. But I was not 100% convinced on their chemistry. Still, they had some pretty cute moments.
Overall this was a fun and cute book, with a sort of complex plot and lots of elements. It’s definitly worth a read.
This was yet another book that was part of my “I don’t have a clue how many books I’ve requested for February, but it should be fine“… SPOILER ALERT: It wasn’t! I ended up with way too many books to read this month, but I digress. This sounded cute and different, so I’m glad I got to read it.
This was my first book by Julie Hammerle and I did enjoy the writing. The book is told in dual POV, on the third person.
One of the biggest differences from other YA cute contemporary romances, is the fact that a lot is going on in this book. The story has a lot of different elements, and while that makes the story well rounded and complex, it also made the plot very slow. A little bit too slow for my taste.
I liked the story of the feud, though it irked me a bit the amount of hate that Elena and Oliver had between them. This made it difficult to connect and like them sometimes, especially Elena, who was constantly rude and irrational when it came to Oliver, even when he was nothing but nice and honest with her. The fact that I didn’t really connect with the characters, took a bit away from my connection with the book itself.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Harper, and I’m really hoping book 2 is about her. But again, while I enjoyed the moments between Elena and Harper, who had been BFFs for a long time, it was the new friendship between Oliver and Harper that won my heart. Oliver was an introvert who didn’t quite know how to make friends, but he cared about Harper and he helped her sort out her feelings and thoughts without ever judging or pressuring her. I really really loved these moments.
The romance was cute, and I liked that they got to know each other well through the chat before finding out who they were, because they wouldn’t have given each other the chance otherwise. But I was not 100% convinced on their chemistry. Still, they had some pretty cute moments.
Overall this was a fun and cute book, with a sort of complex plot and lots of elements. It’s definitly worth a read.
February 16, 2017
SWOON!
A winter romance with a super cute heartthrob and a game that rivals pokemon. So what's not to love?
The character building is done well for the MCs. For the support cast it's not bad but they feel a bit cliche and flat in compare to the MCs. Not to say that I didn't like North Pole or it's inhabitants. The support cast, though cliche is quite alright, just in compare to the brilliantly written MCs, they feel a bit flat retrospectively.
I totally adore Elena and Oliver. I could related to both of them. Enjoyed both POV and more than that their chemistry felt real. Their bickering and banter was really entertaining, I totally swooned for them!
Elena and Oliver are so different, they both deal with life differently. It's interesting to see how they each see the same situation.
The story line is the classic romcom/hallmark kind. And while some of it is a tad, well cliche. I couldn't care less. Because this has all the swoon and cuteness a girl could ask for.
There were quite a lot of dramas thrown in and a bit of mystery, which I actually quite enjoyed.
The only reservation was the end for me. It's too hallmark for my taste. There was this huge build up... and then boom. All is solved. HEA. The end.
This is the first book of Hammerle I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style. While I have a bit of an issue with the way the end went, I felt all the anticipation, heartache, giddiness and happiness she put into this book. I think she excelled at putting me into the MCs frame of mind.
I can't wait to read more of her works
I read this in one sitting, it was captivating and entertaining.- it's a great cute&fluffy! All the swoon, all the cuteness and definitely a must read.
When is the next book coming out?
Oh and who wishes they had access to the game as well?!
A winter romance with a super cute heartthrob and a game that rivals pokemon. So what's not to love?
The character building is done well for the MCs. For the support cast it's not bad but they feel a bit cliche and flat in compare to the MCs. Not to say that I didn't like North Pole or it's inhabitants. The support cast, though cliche is quite alright, just in compare to the brilliantly written MCs, they feel a bit flat retrospectively.
I totally adore Elena and Oliver. I could related to both of them. Enjoyed both POV and more than that their chemistry felt real. Their bickering and banter was really entertaining, I totally swooned for them!
Elena and Oliver are so different, they both deal with life differently. It's interesting to see how they each see the same situation.
The story line is the classic romcom/hallmark kind. And while some of it is a tad, well cliche. I couldn't care less. Because this has all the swoon and cuteness a girl could ask for.
There were quite a lot of dramas thrown in and a bit of mystery, which I actually quite enjoyed.
The only reservation was the end for me. It's too hallmark for my taste. There was this huge build up... and then boom. All is solved. HEA. The end.
This is the first book of Hammerle I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style. While I have a bit of an issue with the way the end went, I felt all the anticipation, heartache, giddiness and happiness she put into this book. I think she excelled at putting me into the MCs frame of mind.
I can't wait to read more of her works
I read this in one sitting, it was captivating and entertaining.- it's a great cute&fluffy! All the swoon, all the cuteness and definitely a must read.
When is the next book coming out?
Oh and who wishes they had access to the game as well?!
February 9, 2017
I want to thank Netgalley, Entangled, and the author for a chance to read this book for an HONEST review.
So this is basically your normal RomCom--Modern day Romeo and Juliet set in North Pole, MN
Like typical Romeo/Juliet style many moons ago there was this feud between the two families for reasons that are unknown at first. (you find out towards the end of the book) You have the Elena Chestnut (Juliet) and Oliver Prince (Romeo) who have grown up taught to hate each other but as fate would have it they end up having feelings for each other. What makes this book different is one 2 sporting goods stores are involved in a town where it is Christmas 365 days a year (yep that's right 365 days) an the Chestnuts have one an the Prince's have the other...during a app game that the Prince's came up with is when Elena an Oliver start talking not knowing who the other is an BOOM! instant chemistry! I'm not saying it wasn't a bad book because it wasn't...it was a really good book just a normal RomCom
So this is basically your normal RomCom--Modern day Romeo and Juliet set in North Pole, MN
Like typical Romeo/Juliet style many moons ago there was this feud between the two families for reasons that are unknown at first. (you find out towards the end of the book) You have the Elena Chestnut (Juliet) and Oliver Prince (Romeo) who have grown up taught to hate each other but as fate would have it they end up having feelings for each other. What makes this book different is one 2 sporting goods stores are involved in a town where it is Christmas 365 days a year (yep that's right 365 days) an the Chestnuts have one an the Prince's have the other...during a app game that the Prince's came up with is when Elena an Oliver start talking not knowing who the other is an BOOM! instant chemistry! I'm not saying it wasn't a bad book because it wasn't...it was a really good book just a normal RomCom
February 13, 2017
Oh my gosh I love this book.
I finished it in less then 5 hours.
That is how wonderful this book is.
Basically we have two families that hate each other from something that happened decades ago. So of course Elena Chestnut hates Oliver Prince just because of his name and vice versa. But when Elena's best friend Harper becomes friends with the Princes, what can she do.
Then the town North Pole gets on board playing Stash Grab. You can win two free plane tickets and of course a gift card to spend at the Prince's store.
Elena wants no part of it, but thinking she can win and really use the free plane tickets to go away with her friends for spring break starts playing in secret.
Oliver who designed the game, starts failing classes. So his parents take away all electronics except for his phone.
Oliver decides to play his own game under a fake email and name.
Soon secrets are formed and old secrets pop up about the two families, can Elena and Oliver get along long enough to uncover the past and make amends to save friendships and businesses? Will a new friendship form in an unlikely way? Or will everything crumble just when people start to get along?
Check this awesome book out!
I finished it in less then 5 hours.
That is how wonderful this book is.
Basically we have two families that hate each other from something that happened decades ago. So of course Elena Chestnut hates Oliver Prince just because of his name and vice versa. But when Elena's best friend Harper becomes friends with the Princes, what can she do.
Then the town North Pole gets on board playing Stash Grab. You can win two free plane tickets and of course a gift card to spend at the Prince's store.
Elena wants no part of it, but thinking she can win and really use the free plane tickets to go away with her friends for spring break starts playing in secret.
Oliver who designed the game, starts failing classes. So his parents take away all electronics except for his phone.
Oliver decides to play his own game under a fake email and name.
Soon secrets are formed and old secrets pop up about the two families, can Elena and Oliver get along long enough to uncover the past and make amends to save friendships and businesses? Will a new friendship form in an unlikely way? Or will everything crumble just when people start to get along?
Check this awesome book out!
February 15, 2017
3.5 “Snow, Pokémon Go & Mortal Enemies” Stars
ARC via NetGalley.
Thank you, Entangled Teen.
I love the concept here: a boy and a girl from two families that go way back and have hated each other for a long time fall in love without realizing who they’re falling for. It has all the key elements to make for a great forbidden romance, right?
Elena Chestnut and Oliver Prince have been taught to pretty much hate each other from moment one. Their grandparents started a business together decades ago, but ended up fighting and splitting the business into two rival winter sporting goods store. They have also split the loyalty of the people living in North Pole, Minnesota; a small town that breathes Christmas 365 days of the year. That means that Elena should never have anything to do with Oliver, and the same goes for him.
Except North Pole is a really small town, so staying away from each other proved much more difficult than they thought.
First, Oliver was in serious need of tutoring. He spent too much time being awesome at computer stuff and not enough getting good grades at school, which made his uptight mother really upset. Little pause here to say I did not like his mother at all. Not even a tiny bit. Sure she seemed to have the best intention at heart by forcing Oliver to step away from his comfortable zone, leave the computer behind and focus on living a real life, but the way she handled the situation was too pushy. Or maybe that’s the way she had to be because her husband was a pushover. As you can see, both of Oliver’s parents were not that great. Therefore, I wished we had spent less time involved in their drama and more time with Oliver and Elena, or other people their age. More on that soon.
Anyway, since Oliver needs help at school, Elena is the one hired as her tutor, both because she’s good at tutoring and also because she really needs the money. Her family’s business is doing well at all, especially now that Oliver came up with a great idea to make his family’s business thrive.
Oliver came up with a local version of Pókemon Go that had everyone in North Pole going crazy. The thing was fun to watch and showed me the author’s (and Oliver’s) really creative side. I loved the whole idea behind the game and how it moved things along with the main characters and the side characters. I kept picturing myself in North Pole, slipping on the ice because I was too busy staring at my phone to pay attention. So I say great job on creating this world and making the reader feel a part of it.
The game Oliver created was also responsible for the second form for Oliver and Elena to interact. Without revealing who they were, they started chatting using the app and became confidents. Things progressed to flirting and soon enough they were ready to see each other. There was a whole lot of cute going on with those two, and it was only made better by the fact that these two should definitely not be falling in love with each other.
But while I liked the rivalry and the hate-and-like relationship, I wished it had lasted a tiny bit less. In fact, I think the book could’ve benefited from being a little shorter. There were a few places where I thought it was dragging a bit, because of how drama-filled it was. I mean, there were many problems with Elena and her family, then Elena and her family’s business, then Oliver and his family, Oliver and Elena, Oliver’s parents and Elena’s parents… and I’m not even getting into the smaller arcs involving Elena’s friend and Oliver’s sister. As you can see, there was too much going on.
The mortal-enemies thing between Oliver and Elena was good in the beginning, but I wish they had moved past that sooner. I wanted them to see the good in each other before they realized they’d been talking to each other on the app. I wanted them to become friends or develop feelings for each other earlier than they did.
I also wished we’d seen less of Oliver and Elena’s parents. At times I felt like I was in the middle of a series that had started with adult protagonists, but had merged into YA later on. There was too much backstory, and sure some of it was needed to explain the rivalry, but had it been treated in a more distant way, I think I would’ve gotten more of the teenage love that was the focus of the book and less of the drama surrounding their parents. Besides, those adults were messy. I wanted to slap some sense into them half the time.
Going back to Oliver and Elena, despite my reservations as to how their relationship progressed, I still enjoyed seeing them go from enemies to two people in love. They had a younger vibe to them (which was odd because half the time they used words or structures that I associated with how older people talked), which made the romance lighter and sweeter than some other titles from Entangled Teen. Overall, it was a positive read. The story was definitely cute, the setting was vivid and there was a lot of creativity involved in this book. Plus, isn't that cover just super cute?
March 4, 2018
I was gifted an ebook via Netgalley.
I expected to really love this based on the fact that it was set in Minnesota (where I was born and raised) and knew it would be a fluffy, light read. It was a fluffy, light read for sure and a really quick read. The hate-to-love trope was strong but a little on the unrealistic side. I wish there would have been more of the typical Minnesota little town vibe that I could relate to. The characters weren't super fleshed out and I didn't really care for Elena or Oliver. The parents seemed really unrealistic too. I didn't hate the book, but I didn't love it either.
I expected to really love this based on the fact that it was set in Minnesota (where I was born and raised) and knew it would be a fluffy, light read. It was a fluffy, light read for sure and a really quick read. The hate-to-love trope was strong but a little on the unrealistic side. I wish there would have been more of the typical Minnesota little town vibe that I could relate to. The characters weren't super fleshed out and I didn't really care for Elena or Oliver. The parents seemed really unrealistic too. I didn't hate the book, but I didn't love it either.
February 17, 2017
I have been reading lots of other genres like adult romance and fantasy so I was due a break from them. When I came across this blurb, I was interested because of the mysterious messaging theme. And adding in the concept of arch enemies being involved with each other, the author had me sold on reading the book. It was time for a sweet romance and this one hit the spot!
It has all the characteristics of a teen romance - little bit of angst, a touch of betrayal and cute romance between an imperfect pair. I call the pairing of Elena and Oliver as imperfect because neither of them are oh-so-perfect in their characteristics. Oliver while being brilliant enough to create an app which has the entire town immersed in a game, can't pass all subjects at school. Though he is cute, he is anti-social. Elena is a goody person who can't go against her parents but that doesn't stop her from being curious enough to take part in the game. It's small things like these which add to the charm of the protagonists.
When I started the book, I was like "Uhuh" because I felt Harper might be interested in Oliver. But I loved the way the author played out Harper's romance though the ending kind of made me sad. The beginning chapters had me feeling sad for Elena and her family because of the town people flocking to the Princes but as the story progressed that feeling diminished and I started feeling dislike for the feud.
The premise of the story is interesting for a teen romance lover but it's actually Elena and Oliver's shy and snarky (do they go together?) relationship which is the real hook in the story. The romance is light but cute with a sweet undertone to it. The slow buildup and the ultimate reveal of their identities had me swooning at times. The ending had a couple of surprises and I wish more of their together-as-couple scenes could have been included.
All in all, it is an adorable teen romance which had me giddy and smiling softly in turns.
I received a review copy and this in no impacts my thoughts on this book. It is my honest and unbiased review.
My one line review : A cute fun romance between an imperfect pair.
My rating : 5/5
My reread factor : 3.5/5
It has all the characteristics of a teen romance - little bit of angst, a touch of betrayal and cute romance between an imperfect pair. I call the pairing of Elena and Oliver as imperfect because neither of them are oh-so-perfect in their characteristics. Oliver while being brilliant enough to create an app which has the entire town immersed in a game, can't pass all subjects at school. Though he is cute, he is anti-social. Elena is a goody person who can't go against her parents but that doesn't stop her from being curious enough to take part in the game. It's small things like these which add to the charm of the protagonists.
When I started the book, I was like "Uhuh" because I felt Harper might be interested in Oliver. But I loved the way the author played out Harper's romance though the ending kind of made me sad. The beginning chapters had me feeling sad for Elena and her family because of the town people flocking to the Princes but as the story progressed that feeling diminished and I started feeling dislike for the feud.
The premise of the story is interesting for a teen romance lover but it's actually Elena and Oliver's shy and snarky (do they go together?) relationship which is the real hook in the story. The romance is light but cute with a sweet undertone to it. The slow buildup and the ultimate reveal of their identities had me swooning at times. The ending had a couple of surprises and I wish more of their together-as-couple scenes could have been included.
All in all, it is an adorable teen romance which had me giddy and smiling softly in turns.
I received a review copy and this in no impacts my thoughts on this book. It is my honest and unbiased review.
My one line review : A cute fun romance between an imperfect pair.
My rating : 5/5
My reread factor : 3.5/5
February 21, 2017
A view weeks ago I was browsing through the Netgalley database when I saw the cover of ‘Any Boy But You’. That cover really grabbed my attention. And when I read where the book was about I immediately requested it. It had been a while since I read a YA novel. And this book sounded really good. I was super excited when I was approved to read ‘Any Boy But You’, and even more when I was asked to join the blog tour.
In ‘Any Boy But You’ we meet Elena Chestnut and Oliver Prince. Elena and Oliver grew up learning to hate each other over a feud that has been between their families for ages. And both Elena and Oliver totally hate each other.
Ever since a Pokémon go kind of game took over the town of North Pole. Elena has been chatting with a boy unlike any other boy she knows. And she has no idea who he is. All she knows is that he lives in the same town as her, plays the same game and goes to the same school.
‘Any Boy But You’ is definitely a very fun read. It’s a combination of You’ve Got Mail, Gilmore Girls and two very nice teens I would have totally loved to hang out with growing up. There was even a ‘Kirk’ kind of guy in this town and I loved reading about it.
The two main characters Elena and Oliver were also really fun to read about. They were perfect for each other, but because of their family feud they never really got the chance to get to know each other.
This book was definitely a fun YA read. I haven’t been loving YA as much as I used too, but this book was really nice. The writing was easy to follow, the characters were fun to get to know, the town was really nice to read about and although a little predictable, it was very entertaining.
I never played Pokémon Go, but since this book has a similar kind of game which almost all the characters in this book are playing I really felt compelled to start playing. I won’t though.. I can’t use any more distractions. LOL!
‘Any Boy But You’ is a fun YA read with a nice Romance you’ll keep wanting to read until the very end. Since this book is supposed to be the first book in a series, I can’t wait to read more.
In ‘Any Boy But You’ we meet Elena Chestnut and Oliver Prince. Elena and Oliver grew up learning to hate each other over a feud that has been between their families for ages. And both Elena and Oliver totally hate each other.
Ever since a Pokémon go kind of game took over the town of North Pole. Elena has been chatting with a boy unlike any other boy she knows. And she has no idea who he is. All she knows is that he lives in the same town as her, plays the same game and goes to the same school.
‘Any Boy But You’ is definitely a very fun read. It’s a combination of You’ve Got Mail, Gilmore Girls and two very nice teens I would have totally loved to hang out with growing up. There was even a ‘Kirk’ kind of guy in this town and I loved reading about it.
The two main characters Elena and Oliver were also really fun to read about. They were perfect for each other, but because of their family feud they never really got the chance to get to know each other.
This book was definitely a fun YA read. I haven’t been loving YA as much as I used too, but this book was really nice. The writing was easy to follow, the characters were fun to get to know, the town was really nice to read about and although a little predictable, it was very entertaining.
I never played Pokémon Go, but since this book has a similar kind of game which almost all the characters in this book are playing I really felt compelled to start playing. I won’t though.. I can’t use any more distractions. LOL!
‘Any Boy But You’ is a fun YA read with a nice Romance you’ll keep wanting to read until the very end. Since this book is supposed to be the first book in a series, I can’t wait to read more.
February 6, 2017
3.5
*This review will also appear on A Leisure Moment*
**I received an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Elena Chestnut had hated the Princes for as long as she could remember. The animosity of the two families drove the story and created an irresistible atmosphere of competition.
The small town of North Pole, Minnesota was Stars Hollow, Connecticut with more snow. It was a character itself. Craig and Dinesh reminded me of Kirk and Taylor. The game that Oliver Prince designed brought the town together in a Stars Hollow-like fashion. I couldn’t help making Gilmore Girl references. Elena didn’t have the same relationship with her mom that Lorelei and Rory had, but I didn’t mind (especially considering I couldn’t stand Rory in the remake—just staying). Either way, North Pole made small towns look good.
Elena got on my nerves a little bit. She had been born and bred to hate the Princes, but sometimes I huffed and rolled my eyes at just how much she hated them. I liked her best when she showed the wonderful person that she was, the girl she was around her best friend and the girl who fought tooth and nail to keep her family’s store afloat. When she accepted her feelings for Oliver, she put her stubborn streak aside. Not that I have anything against being stubborn (pot meet kettle and all), but she lied to herself sometimes. If anything, I love when a character is honest with herself. That Elena was the best Elena.
Oliver had gorgeous auburn hair and social anxiety. He preferred his laptop over human interaction—or rejection. I really liked Oliver. I fell easily for him, even with his jerk tendencies. He and Harper had a wonderful friendship. They understood each other and dealt with each other when they were both being idiots. Harper was the bridge between him and Elena and made their love possible.
The two started their relationship via the game that took the town a storm. I liked reading their easy banter and wanted them to see through their stubbornness, for them to see that the person they were talking to on the app was the same person in real life. If only they could forget about the awkward history.
This wasn’t my favorite contemporary romance, but the banter and Gilmore Girls feel kept my attention. I had to know how it ended. Would Elena get her yellow rose? Would Oliver get his laptop back and revert back to his old ways? Any Boy But You had strong friendships and strong feuds, the lines getting so blurry at times that the only person in the town that made sense was Craig. I wouldn’t mind returning to North Pole, Minnesota. With a town like that, it’s hard not to fall half in love with it.
*This review will also appear on A Leisure Moment*
**I received an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Elena Chestnut had hated the Princes for as long as she could remember. The animosity of the two families drove the story and created an irresistible atmosphere of competition.
The small town of North Pole, Minnesota was Stars Hollow, Connecticut with more snow. It was a character itself. Craig and Dinesh reminded me of Kirk and Taylor. The game that Oliver Prince designed brought the town together in a Stars Hollow-like fashion. I couldn’t help making Gilmore Girl references. Elena didn’t have the same relationship with her mom that Lorelei and Rory had, but I didn’t mind (especially considering I couldn’t stand Rory in the remake—just staying). Either way, North Pole made small towns look good.
Elena got on my nerves a little bit. She had been born and bred to hate the Princes, but sometimes I huffed and rolled my eyes at just how much she hated them. I liked her best when she showed the wonderful person that she was, the girl she was around her best friend and the girl who fought tooth and nail to keep her family’s store afloat. When she accepted her feelings for Oliver, she put her stubborn streak aside. Not that I have anything against being stubborn (pot meet kettle and all), but she lied to herself sometimes. If anything, I love when a character is honest with herself. That Elena was the best Elena.
Oliver had gorgeous auburn hair and social anxiety. He preferred his laptop over human interaction—or rejection. I really liked Oliver. I fell easily for him, even with his jerk tendencies. He and Harper had a wonderful friendship. They understood each other and dealt with each other when they were both being idiots. Harper was the bridge between him and Elena and made their love possible.
The two started their relationship via the game that took the town a storm. I liked reading their easy banter and wanted them to see through their stubbornness, for them to see that the person they were talking to on the app was the same person in real life. If only they could forget about the awkward history.
This wasn’t my favorite contemporary romance, but the banter and Gilmore Girls feel kept my attention. I had to know how it ended. Would Elena get her yellow rose? Would Oliver get his laptop back and revert back to his old ways? Any Boy But You had strong friendships and strong feuds, the lines getting so blurry at times that the only person in the town that made sense was Craig. I wouldn’t mind returning to North Pole, Minnesota. With a town like that, it’s hard not to fall half in love with it.
February 7, 2017
Netgalley copy in exchange for an honest review.
Here is a general overview of the state of my heart after reading this book (or even while reading this book): aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwww! I am a puddle of warm and sweet feelings.
This was so sweet and heartwarming, I do want a big hug right now. It was not too much sweetness, though, and it tackled quite a lot of nice topics, such as sexual identity, divorce, with on the one hand seriousness and on the other hand a lot of fun and humour, too! These many ingredients made the perfect recipe for a heartwarming novel that made my heart melt, for sure!
The characters were incredibly realistic and funny, thanks to Julie Hammerle's writing, and I enjoyed reading the quick, snappy chapters. One thing I particularly liked was that the reader gets elements from both sides of the story, which is always a bonus for me: you get Elena's perspective, and you get Oliver's as well.
I also liked the whole message behind the book: no one is truly bad and evil, you have to dig in to discover the beauty in people. Of course there are always extreme cases and I'm not asking everyone to see in pink and everything. But for once, when life is hard and tough, reading a positive book makes people feel great.
It certainly worked for me.
Here is a general overview of the state of my heart after reading this book (or even while reading this book): aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwww! I am a puddle of warm and sweet feelings.
This was so sweet and heartwarming, I do want a big hug right now. It was not too much sweetness, though, and it tackled quite a lot of nice topics, such as sexual identity, divorce, with on the one hand seriousness and on the other hand a lot of fun and humour, too! These many ingredients made the perfect recipe for a heartwarming novel that made my heart melt, for sure!
The characters were incredibly realistic and funny, thanks to Julie Hammerle's writing, and I enjoyed reading the quick, snappy chapters. One thing I particularly liked was that the reader gets elements from both sides of the story, which is always a bonus for me: you get Elena's perspective, and you get Oliver's as well.
I also liked the whole message behind the book: no one is truly bad and evil, you have to dig in to discover the beauty in people. Of course there are always extreme cases and I'm not asking everyone to see in pink and everything. But for once, when life is hard and tough, reading a positive book makes people feel great.
It certainly worked for me.
Read
April 28, 2017The cover and blurb for Any Boy But You led me to expect a sweet teen romance. While the romance itself was "clean," I was surprised to find a fair amount of profanity in the book and several bisexual/homosexual characters whose same-sex attraction was not presented in any moral context. A character comes out to her best friend, and it's treated as if she's discovered she likes Coke better than Pepsi. There's absolutely no personal, social, or familial considerations of the effects. Even for those who have no moral compunctions about same-sex lifestyles, it seems odd not to have a single character bat an eye at the revelation or even express any surprise.
From a storytelling perspective, the characters fell flat, and even the main characters did not come across as likable. I thought I'd warm up to them, but by the end, I still hadn't developed any affection for the hero or heroine (or their friends or family for that matter). Maybe that could be overlooked if the dialogue was snappy, the plot original, or the outcome surprising, but that wasn't the case. The resolution is predictable and cliche.
All of that said, the writing is solid, the editing is excellent, and the setting is cute. The pacing didn't drag, and despite my disappointment with the characters, I finished the story.
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
From a storytelling perspective, the characters fell flat, and even the main characters did not come across as likable. I thought I'd warm up to them, but by the end, I still hadn't developed any affection for the hero or heroine (or their friends or family for that matter). Maybe that could be overlooked if the dialogue was snappy, the plot original, or the outcome surprising, but that wasn't the case. The resolution is predictable and cliche.
All of that said, the writing is solid, the editing is excellent, and the setting is cute. The pacing didn't drag, and despite my disappointment with the characters, I finished the story.
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
February 5, 2017
This was a light, entertaining story with believable characters. This is an accessible read that will appeal to its target audience although I did find the pacing needed attention in the middle with the story starting to drag a little.
While the story is well written it is rather pedestrian. I imagine that it will appeal to teens, especially reluctant readers, looking for a light read. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
While the story is well written it is rather pedestrian. I imagine that it will appeal to teens, especially reluctant readers, looking for a light read. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
March 21, 2017
3.5 Stars
The Chestnuts and the Princes have been at war for years. An old family feud that has spiraled out of control even has the town divided. With both families owning sporting goods stores placed right across the street from each other, there's not a day that goes by where the feud isn't on their minds. The only difference is the Princes are making money while the Chestnuts are struggling. When a mobile app scavenger hunt whips the town into a frenzy, Elena Chestnut finds herself caught up in the middle and puts her right in Oliver Prince's way.
I struggled a little with this book and initially I wanted to give it just three stars. Most in part because of Elena. I just really did not like her. Her character is extremely petty and immature. Her attitude alone turned me off from the start. It's amazing her family's store even had customers at all with her working there. She yelled at almost everyone she came into contact, lashed out at them because she was upset with her own life, and refused to acknowledge that people aren't their parents (mainly Oliver and Regina).
Another big turnoff for me was what happens between two of the parents. I felt it was completely unnecessary and hindered the plot more than helped. I don't see how both parties remained completely ambivalent towards it later.
What saved this book was Oliver and the supporting characters - most importantly Harper. Despite his families feud with the Chestnuts, Oliver could really care less. He lived in the world of computers. It isn't until he's forced to look up from that world that he realizes just how much he's been missing. And not just on the romantic front. His friendship with Harper was a surprising evolution. Whereas Elena only thought about how to bring him down, Oliver tried to help Elena - to share information when he found out the hidden secrets of their parents past. He even tried to help with business ideas, something that he really didn't need to do.
Then there was Harper. Can we please get more of her? She was by far the most interesting character. Though I figured out her secret long before it was revealed, I enjoyed watching her come into her own.
Set in a small town in the middle of nowhere surrounded by pretty much constant winter, the town itself adds it's own character. While the ending was maybe just a little to cutesy and perfect for me, it fit the story and I ended up enjoying it. I really liked Hammerle's first book, The Sound of Us, and look forward to more from her.
I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Chestnuts and the Princes have been at war for years. An old family feud that has spiraled out of control even has the town divided. With both families owning sporting goods stores placed right across the street from each other, there's not a day that goes by where the feud isn't on their minds. The only difference is the Princes are making money while the Chestnuts are struggling. When a mobile app scavenger hunt whips the town into a frenzy, Elena Chestnut finds herself caught up in the middle and puts her right in Oliver Prince's way.
I struggled a little with this book and initially I wanted to give it just three stars. Most in part because of Elena. I just really did not like her. Her character is extremely petty and immature. Her attitude alone turned me off from the start. It's amazing her family's store even had customers at all with her working there. She yelled at almost everyone she came into contact, lashed out at them because she was upset with her own life, and refused to acknowledge that people aren't their parents (mainly Oliver and Regina).
Another big turnoff for me was what happens between two of the parents. I felt it was completely unnecessary and hindered the plot more than helped. I don't see how both parties remained completely ambivalent towards it later.
What saved this book was Oliver and the supporting characters - most importantly Harper. Despite his families feud with the Chestnuts, Oliver could really care less. He lived in the world of computers. It isn't until he's forced to look up from that world that he realizes just how much he's been missing. And not just on the romantic front. His friendship with Harper was a surprising evolution. Whereas Elena only thought about how to bring him down, Oliver tried to help Elena - to share information when he found out the hidden secrets of their parents past. He even tried to help with business ideas, something that he really didn't need to do.
Then there was Harper. Can we please get more of her? She was by far the most interesting character. Though I figured out her secret long before it was revealed, I enjoyed watching her come into her own.
Set in a small town in the middle of nowhere surrounded by pretty much constant winter, the town itself adds it's own character. While the ending was maybe just a little to cutesy and perfect for me, it fit the story and I ended up enjoying it. I really liked Hammerle's first book, The Sound of Us, and look forward to more from her.
I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2017
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Any Boy but You is the first book in the young adult contemporary romance series, called North Pole Minnesota by Julie Hammerle. I have Julie's other book, the Sound of Us sitting on my TBR pile, but after having read Any Boy But You, I need to bump it up the pile. Because Any Boy But You was super cute. I loved the concept behind it.
Elena and Oliver start texting anonymously through a popular app game, but little do they know they are from rival sporting goods families. I cracked up when I saw the concept behind the story. Like a modern day Romeo and Juliet, but for the texting and app generation. It was super cute. I totally dug the fun and flirty writing style, and I adored the characters. The book is set up in my favorite narration style as well...dual narrative with both Elena and Oliver's points of view.
The writing in Any Boy But You is great. It is quipy, with plenty of pop culture references and it just makes you happy. This is a feel good read if there ever was one. It put a smile on my face. It is a bit predictable, but in the way I wanted it to be. I easily finished Any By But you in one sitting, and I was grinning from ear to ear by the time I was done.
Bottom line: If you are looking for a light read full of great characters, fluffy fun and a good ole family rivalry, Any Boy but you by Julie Hammerle is the book for you. This is a quick, feel good read that is super fun. I can't wait to travel back to the land of North Pole, Minnesota for the next book in this fun series.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Any Boy but You is the first book in the young adult contemporary romance series, called North Pole Minnesota by Julie Hammerle. I have Julie's other book, the Sound of Us sitting on my TBR pile, but after having read Any Boy But You, I need to bump it up the pile. Because Any Boy But You was super cute. I loved the concept behind it.
Elena and Oliver start texting anonymously through a popular app game, but little do they know they are from rival sporting goods families. I cracked up when I saw the concept behind the story. Like a modern day Romeo and Juliet, but for the texting and app generation. It was super cute. I totally dug the fun and flirty writing style, and I adored the characters. The book is set up in my favorite narration style as well...dual narrative with both Elena and Oliver's points of view.
The writing in Any Boy But You is great. It is quipy, with plenty of pop culture references and it just makes you happy. This is a feel good read if there ever was one. It put a smile on my face. It is a bit predictable, but in the way I wanted it to be. I easily finished Any By But you in one sitting, and I was grinning from ear to ear by the time I was done.
Bottom line: If you are looking for a light read full of great characters, fluffy fun and a good ole family rivalry, Any Boy but you by Julie Hammerle is the book for you. This is a quick, feel good read that is super fun. I can't wait to travel back to the land of North Pole, Minnesota for the next book in this fun series.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
September 28, 2017
This was a cute read. I don’t really have a lot to say - I loved the Minnesota setting, I loved the “war” between the two sporting goods stores (although I’d have loved it more if it was like actual war, even a prank war) and I liked Oliver and Elena.
I’m a tiny bit annoyed that there’s been a further two books in this series, but not about Harper, Elena’s best friend who’s questioning her sexuality in this book, and who id love to read a book about, but apparently the next two books are more fluffy m/f romances. 🙄🙄🙄
I’m a tiny bit annoyed that there’s been a further two books in this series, but not about Harper, Elena’s best friend who’s questioning her sexuality in this book, and who id love to read a book about, but apparently the next two books are more fluffy m/f romances. 🙄🙄🙄
March 19, 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a digital ARC in exchange fot an honest review.
This was a really cute, fun book. It's the best yet that I have read from the Entangled Teen Crush books, and it's a series I plan to keep up with because I liked this first book so much. It has sparks of You've Got Mail and Gilmore Girls to it...both, which I love. The storyline was realistic and was more romcom like than typical romance novel like. There was no instalove...thank goodness, and it had interesting, well developed characters who were very likable. There was also come diversity with the characters, which is something I always appreciate seeing. For anyone who enjoys cute romcoms, this one is for you; I wholeheartedly recommend it.
This was a really cute, fun book. It's the best yet that I have read from the Entangled Teen Crush books, and it's a series I plan to keep up with because I liked this first book so much. It has sparks of You've Got Mail and Gilmore Girls to it...both, which I love. The storyline was realistic and was more romcom like than typical romance novel like. There was no instalove...thank goodness, and it had interesting, well developed characters who were very likable. There was also come diversity with the characters, which is something I always appreciate seeing. For anyone who enjoys cute romcoms, this one is for you; I wholeheartedly recommend it.
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