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Searching for Billy Shakespeare
Intensely introverted and socially awkward grad student Kate Mireau has loved only one man since she was a little girl.
William Shakespeare.
Unfortunately, he died over four hundred years ago.
Since no modern-day man will ever compete with the Bard’s wit and wisdom, Kate is destined for dissatisfaction in matters of the heart. Besides, any attempt she makes to step out of her comforting world of books usually ends in humiliating disaster. But when she agrees to help her new roommate’s brother prepare for an upcoming audition, she meets a man who makes her pulse race almost as fast as Shakespeare’s insults. ‘Tis said the course of true love never did run smooth, and Kate discovers that Gabe is not an aspiring classical actor—he’s one of Hollywood’s sexiest leading men.
Experience has taught Kate that she’ll just end up embarrassing them both. Will she retreat to her safe world of beloved plays and poetry, consoling herself with the notion that he is a star out of her reach? Or if all the world's a stage, then maybe Gabe is her chance to find there’s more to life than just words, words, words.
William Shakespeare.
Unfortunately, he died over four hundred years ago.
Since no modern-day man will ever compete with the Bard’s wit and wisdom, Kate is destined for dissatisfaction in matters of the heart. Besides, any attempt she makes to step out of her comforting world of books usually ends in humiliating disaster. But when she agrees to help her new roommate’s brother prepare for an upcoming audition, she meets a man who makes her pulse race almost as fast as Shakespeare’s insults. ‘Tis said the course of true love never did run smooth, and Kate discovers that Gabe is not an aspiring classical actor—he’s one of Hollywood’s sexiest leading men.
Experience has taught Kate that she’ll just end up embarrassing them both. Will she retreat to her safe world of beloved plays and poetry, consoling herself with the notion that he is a star out of her reach? Or if all the world's a stage, then maybe Gabe is her chance to find there’s more to life than just words, words, words.
- GenresRomance
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2017
2 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
Crista McHugh
68 books933 followersCrista McHugh is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY BESTSELLING author of fantasy and romance with heroines who are smart, sexy, and anything but ordinary.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 3, 2018
Unfortunately this was just not the book for me. I LOVED the beginning and the supporting characters in the beginning but things didn't last the way that I expected them to. I felt like the blurb was misleading. However, the story was well written and I am still curious to check out the author's other works regardless of my negative review. Which I just despise doing by the way. Writing a bad review always puts me in a nasty hangover like state. Does anyone have an idea on a word or catchy phrase for this?! Lol, I am going off topic but I do want to say that even though this was not the book for me I can see this book being very successful and understand why others like it! Also have to give the author kudos for adding a fun LGBT+ couple to the mix!
December 31, 2017
Kate Mireau is a grad student trying to get her P.H.D in English writing a dissertation based on the works of William Shakespeare, as that has been the love of her life… The Bard. Growing up on a hippie Alpaca farm in Washington State with no T.V she had to try to keep herself occupied the best way she knew how.. by reading anything and Everything, ESPECIALLY, the works of William Shakespeare over and over again to the point of knowing them all of by heart.
After finding her fiance in the arms of another woman Kate is forced to find a new place to live, which winds up being on the Upper East Side in New York City right on Park Avenue, living as a sort of live in maid for “Ringleader Barbie” Ari Horowitz.
After moving in, she starts getting calls from Ari’s brother, Gabe, an actor in California, trying to get a hold of Ari. This turns into some tutoring as Gabe is trying to get a Shakespearean role that is out of his element and Kate is the only one who can help him. But is Gabe really who he says he is? Or will he throw her hum-drum scholars lifestyle into chaos as the two of them grow closer together?
I liked this read, the relationship between Kate and Gabe was ok… it felt a little rushed. But, I enjoyed their conversations and the fact that they started falling for each other sight unseen. I just felt that the whole story needed some editing. While fairly decently written, it contained too many extra people and situations that were unnecessary. Her friend Livvy and Livvy’s girlfriend Aisha for instance. I understand them being there to help her find her place to live, but the personality of Aisha and the animosity between her and Kate wasn’t needed, the proposal was not needed as nothing came from it, etc… there was just a lot that could have been cut out to slow the story down and to keep the focus where it should have stayed. They also could have focused on Gabe’s sister Ari a little more as well, as I feel like she could have been a good character edition of the story and there could have been more growth between her and Kate and in her personality in general… but, instead she just ran in and out all the time.
It did, though re-kindle my interest in The Bard a little though, and those who know me? That is saying A LOT!!! I fell out of love with Shakespeare in high school when I was always told what to think of his works, and what he meant by certain things like I couldn’t have any thoughts or feeling of my own. This was a man who was poor and wrote to eat. Although, I will not lessen his talent, I don’t know if he would have even thought of half of the things the scholars have read into his plays! I would LOVE to go back and meet him to find out! But, some of the quotes in this book made me want to go back and re-read some of his works to, in my later years, get my own opinions! It was a speech that Kate makes that really made me want to do this, and I think she said it best.
“I remembered that his words were never meant to be read on a page. His words were meant to be read aloud. I never truly understood the power of them until I heard him recite a speech to me while he was preparing an audition piece. That led me to explore modern interpretations of his work. “Shakespeare is not just confined to the Elizabethan world. His works are as real and as universal today as they ever were. And in the hands of skilled actors, they become living, breathing creatures. My hope is that this passion I’ve discovered will be able to draw modern students into Shakespeare’s world so that they appreciate the Bard as more than just a dead poet who talked funny.”
Well said, Kate. Well said.
After finding her fiance in the arms of another woman Kate is forced to find a new place to live, which winds up being on the Upper East Side in New York City right on Park Avenue, living as a sort of live in maid for “Ringleader Barbie” Ari Horowitz.
After moving in, she starts getting calls from Ari’s brother, Gabe, an actor in California, trying to get a hold of Ari. This turns into some tutoring as Gabe is trying to get a Shakespearean role that is out of his element and Kate is the only one who can help him. But is Gabe really who he says he is? Or will he throw her hum-drum scholars lifestyle into chaos as the two of them grow closer together?
I liked this read, the relationship between Kate and Gabe was ok… it felt a little rushed. But, I enjoyed their conversations and the fact that they started falling for each other sight unseen. I just felt that the whole story needed some editing. While fairly decently written, it contained too many extra people and situations that were unnecessary. Her friend Livvy and Livvy’s girlfriend Aisha for instance. I understand them being there to help her find her place to live, but the personality of Aisha and the animosity between her and Kate wasn’t needed, the proposal was not needed as nothing came from it, etc… there was just a lot that could have been cut out to slow the story down and to keep the focus where it should have stayed. They also could have focused on Gabe’s sister Ari a little more as well, as I feel like she could have been a good character edition of the story and there could have been more growth between her and Kate and in her personality in general… but, instead she just ran in and out all the time.
It did, though re-kindle my interest in The Bard a little though, and those who know me? That is saying A LOT!!! I fell out of love with Shakespeare in high school when I was always told what to think of his works, and what he meant by certain things like I couldn’t have any thoughts or feeling of my own. This was a man who was poor and wrote to eat. Although, I will not lessen his talent, I don’t know if he would have even thought of half of the things the scholars have read into his plays! I would LOVE to go back and meet him to find out! But, some of the quotes in this book made me want to go back and re-read some of his works to, in my later years, get my own opinions! It was a speech that Kate makes that really made me want to do this, and I think she said it best.
“I remembered that his words were never meant to be read on a page. His words were meant to be read aloud. I never truly understood the power of them until I heard him recite a speech to me while he was preparing an audition piece. That led me to explore modern interpretations of his work. “Shakespeare is not just confined to the Elizabethan world. His works are as real and as universal today as they ever were. And in the hands of skilled actors, they become living, breathing creatures. My hope is that this passion I’ve discovered will be able to draw modern students into Shakespeare’s world so that they appreciate the Bard as more than just a dead poet who talked funny.”
Well said, Kate. Well said.
December 11, 2017
Kate Mireau is a grad student who loves William Shakespeare. She is writing her dissertation that has taken many years to do and is due in a few months. She walks in her on fiancé cheating on her. Her best friend Livvy and her friend help Kate find a roommate.
Ari invites Kate to come interview for the roommate position. Kate ends up getting it and cooks and cleans for lower rent. Once day Gabe, Ari’s brother, calls and he need help from Kate for a role he wants to try out for. It requires Shakespeare.
Kate had no clue she would fall for the nice voice man. Once they meet under unusual circumstances. She knows she is plain Jane but after the do-over from Ari, she is not bad.
Can these two help each other and Kate come out of her shell?
I enjoyed this book. It is the first one by this author I have read. I loved the characters as they were great together. Who knew Gabe would be down to earth. Kate was sweet and you could relate to her fairly easily. You want to see what happens to the couple. I enjoyed all the quotes from the different plays from Shakespeare.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the NetGalley.
Ari invites Kate to come interview for the roommate position. Kate ends up getting it and cooks and cleans for lower rent. Once day Gabe, Ari’s brother, calls and he need help from Kate for a role he wants to try out for. It requires Shakespeare.
Kate had no clue she would fall for the nice voice man. Once they meet under unusual circumstances. She knows she is plain Jane but after the do-over from Ari, she is not bad.
Can these two help each other and Kate come out of her shell?
I enjoyed this book. It is the first one by this author I have read. I loved the characters as they were great together. Who knew Gabe would be down to earth. Kate was sweet and you could relate to her fairly easily. You want to see what happens to the couple. I enjoyed all the quotes from the different plays from Shakespeare.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the NetGalley.
July 4, 2018
This was a fun contemporary romance by Christa McHugh that actually included several familiar characters from her Kelly Brothers series. This book is not part of that series, it just borrows some characters. Kate is a struggling student working on her dissertation of her favorite author, William Shakespeare, when she discovers her fiancé with another woman. Finding herself not only heartbroken but also homeless, she agrees to become basically a live-in maid for a rich socialite. In that capacity she starts a friendship with a Hollywood actor without even realizing who he is. Gabe and Kate made a great couple even before they were an actual couple. Filled with fun supporting characters and plenty of great quotes from Shakespeare (without being too much), this was a highly enjoyable read.
December 23, 2017
Unique, fun romance
I was looking for something different to read and the title caught my eye. I'm so glad it did. Crista McHugh did a wonderful job bringing to life realistic characters and Shakespeare. Kate and Gabe develop a friendship via the phone as she coaches him on her life's work, Shakespeare. I loved that the author took the time to develop that relationship before it evolved into romance. I also enjoyed the supporting characters that made Kate's world come alive. This is the first book I've read by Crista McHugh and I look forward to checking out her back list and her future releases.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book.
I was looking for something different to read and the title caught my eye. I'm so glad it did. Crista McHugh did a wonderful job bringing to life realistic characters and Shakespeare. Kate and Gabe develop a friendship via the phone as she coaches him on her life's work, Shakespeare. I loved that the author took the time to develop that relationship before it evolved into romance. I also enjoyed the supporting characters that made Kate's world come alive. This is the first book I've read by Crista McHugh and I look forward to checking out her back list and her future releases.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book.
December 29, 2017
Sweet contemporary romance with an introverted, strong heroine that steals the heart of an extroverted actor.
Fighting through a nasty break-up, Kate decides to throw the same caution responsible for her ex’s transgressions to the wind and get a new flat. She strikes lucky as although her flatmate is a high society princess, Kate is just thankful to be able to afford the rent as she finishes her English PhD dissertation… which is stuck in a rut. Enter Gabe, her flatmate’s brother, who may be the answer to all her problems. Or maybe the creator of new ones…
Wit and cheek galore, flowing plot, and adorable yet believable characterisation, this is a romance to warm your hearts and restore faith in members of certain professions. Sweet, fun, and compulsive. Recommended.
*Thank you to the author for the free review copy.
Fighting through a nasty break-up, Kate decides to throw the same caution responsible for her ex’s transgressions to the wind and get a new flat. She strikes lucky as although her flatmate is a high society princess, Kate is just thankful to be able to afford the rent as she finishes her English PhD dissertation… which is stuck in a rut. Enter Gabe, her flatmate’s brother, who may be the answer to all her problems. Or maybe the creator of new ones…
Wit and cheek galore, flowing plot, and adorable yet believable characterisation, this is a romance to warm your hearts and restore faith in members of certain professions. Sweet, fun, and compulsive. Recommended.
*Thank you to the author for the free review copy.
June 15, 2018
4.5 Stars
The cover for Searching for Billy Shakespeare is what caught my attention. The cover actually had me thinking this was one of Crista’s YA reads. In fact, it’s a New Adult Romance.
Searching for Billy Shakespeare marks my first time reading Crista McHugh, who has been on my author reading wish list for awhile. I have to admit, the first 20% of the book was not what I was expecting. In fact, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like the book. I wasn’t getting a romance vibe and the heroine, Kate, just seemed nerdy and square. She was pretty much just lost in her own world of William Shakespeare. What kept me reading was my curiosity about how Kate’s life would turn out. But, I’m getting ahead of myself.
Kate Mireau is a twenty-seven-year-old graduate student at Columbia. For the past three years, she’s been working day and night on her dissertation on William Shakespeare. In an out of character move, she takes the night off only to discover her boyfriend of ten years has been cheating. While tragic, this forces Kate to make a fresh start with her life.
Kate’s fresh start includes a move from Brooklyn to the Upper East Side, a trust-fund roommate, plus experiences and opportunities she’s never had. This new start also puts her on the path to meet Gabe. Kate and Gabe started their love affair in a way that I really, really loved. Their first interaction was by phone. And they continued to have a phone relationship and ultimate friendship by phone, long before they ever actually laid eyes on each other. The two actually started having deep feelings for one another long before Kate knew Gabe was a Hollywood superstar. But their road to happiness isn’t going to be easy. Gabe’s Hollywood lifestyle doesn’t really go well with Kate’s quiet, graduate lifestyle. The two are going to have to learn to make some major compromises to find the happiness and love they want.
Searching for Billy Shakespeare has very likeable characters. I really fell in love with Kate and Gabe. The secondary characters were good and definitely helped drive the story. However, I was disappointed that major events occured in the secondary characters lives that affected Kate and Gabe, but the resolutions weren’t revealed to readers. This apparently is a spin-off of Crista’s Kelly Brothers series, so maybe there’s another story in the works featuring Gabe’s sister.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed the book.**
The cover for Searching for Billy Shakespeare is what caught my attention. The cover actually had me thinking this was one of Crista’s YA reads. In fact, it’s a New Adult Romance.
Searching for Billy Shakespeare marks my first time reading Crista McHugh, who has been on my author reading wish list for awhile. I have to admit, the first 20% of the book was not what I was expecting. In fact, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like the book. I wasn’t getting a romance vibe and the heroine, Kate, just seemed nerdy and square. She was pretty much just lost in her own world of William Shakespeare. What kept me reading was my curiosity about how Kate’s life would turn out. But, I’m getting ahead of myself.
Kate Mireau is a twenty-seven-year-old graduate student at Columbia. For the past three years, she’s been working day and night on her dissertation on William Shakespeare. In an out of character move, she takes the night off only to discover her boyfriend of ten years has been cheating. While tragic, this forces Kate to make a fresh start with her life.
Kate’s fresh start includes a move from Brooklyn to the Upper East Side, a trust-fund roommate, plus experiences and opportunities she’s never had. This new start also puts her on the path to meet Gabe. Kate and Gabe started their love affair in a way that I really, really loved. Their first interaction was by phone. And they continued to have a phone relationship and ultimate friendship by phone, long before they ever actually laid eyes on each other. The two actually started having deep feelings for one another long before Kate knew Gabe was a Hollywood superstar. But their road to happiness isn’t going to be easy. Gabe’s Hollywood lifestyle doesn’t really go well with Kate’s quiet, graduate lifestyle. The two are going to have to learn to make some major compromises to find the happiness and love they want.
Searching for Billy Shakespeare has very likeable characters. I really fell in love with Kate and Gabe. The secondary characters were good and definitely helped drive the story. However, I was disappointed that major events occured in the secondary characters lives that affected Kate and Gabe, but the resolutions weren’t revealed to readers. This apparently is a spin-off of Crista’s Kelly Brothers series, so maybe there’s another story in the works featuring Gabe’s sister.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed the book.**
January 30, 2019
3.5 stars
I would like to thank netgalley and Season Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a clever story and I love the use of Shakespeare. But the academia does get a little bit of a bashing in this and towards the end the amount of work she gets done in such a short amount of time does get rather unbelievable.
I would like to thank netgalley and Season Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a clever story and I love the use of Shakespeare. But the academia does get a little bit of a bashing in this and towards the end the amount of work she gets done in such a short amount of time does get rather unbelievable.
January 9, 2018
Searching for Billy Shakespeare begins with Kate’s best friend, Livvy, talking her into going out with her and her girlfriend for the night. Even though Kate resists, she is eventually persuaded. They run by Kate’s apartment, which she shares with her fiancé. Upon entering, Kate’s world crumbles. She takes a little while to lick her wounds and find a new apartment.
Kate responds to an ad for someone searching for a roommate, and to her utter surprise, she is “approved”by her new roomie, Ari. There are stipulations, but Kate jumps at the chance. It doesn’t take long for Kate to receive a call from an unknown number, only to find out it’s Ari’s brother, Gabe, needing some help for an audition that is a little out of his comfort zone: the classics. Kate is a little intrigued, and before long, finds herself waiting anxiously for his next phone call. After a near tragic event involving Ari, Gabe flies to New York. Kate still has no idea exactly who Gabe actually is, which endears her even more to Gabe. They both eventually decide to take their relationship to the next level, albeit slowly. After a series of mishaps, Kate realizes that what she’s been searching for all along is right in front of her………
Oh, how I’ve missed Crista McHugh’s stories. Searching for Billy Shakespeare is a nicely written tale that moves fast from the very beginning. Kate is a loveable, and nerdy, introvert who is more than comfortable with herself. She just has a little trouble being comfortable with others being comfortable with her quirks, and afraid she won’t fit in, especially in Gabe’s world. Gabe is grounded, even though he is very famous. It absolutely adds to his lovability factor that Gideon Kelly (from the Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh) is his best friend. I did NOT see that coming, but was a fun bit thrown in by the author for her loyal readers. Looking for Billy Shakespeare ultimately teaches us that if something looks too good to be true, it may, in fact, be just the opposite and be the best thing ever! If you’re a fan of quick romantic reads, with a bit of humor and relatable characters, you will never go wrong with anything written by Crista McHugh. Searching for Billy Shakespeare is fun, engaging and endearing. I’m hoping we’ll get a follow-up for some of the other characters we met in this one. Well done, Crista McHugh! Very well done!
Kate responds to an ad for someone searching for a roommate, and to her utter surprise, she is “approved”by her new roomie, Ari. There are stipulations, but Kate jumps at the chance. It doesn’t take long for Kate to receive a call from an unknown number, only to find out it’s Ari’s brother, Gabe, needing some help for an audition that is a little out of his comfort zone: the classics. Kate is a little intrigued, and before long, finds herself waiting anxiously for his next phone call. After a near tragic event involving Ari, Gabe flies to New York. Kate still has no idea exactly who Gabe actually is, which endears her even more to Gabe. They both eventually decide to take their relationship to the next level, albeit slowly. After a series of mishaps, Kate realizes that what she’s been searching for all along is right in front of her………
Oh, how I’ve missed Crista McHugh’s stories. Searching for Billy Shakespeare is a nicely written tale that moves fast from the very beginning. Kate is a loveable, and nerdy, introvert who is more than comfortable with herself. She just has a little trouble being comfortable with others being comfortable with her quirks, and afraid she won’t fit in, especially in Gabe’s world. Gabe is grounded, even though he is very famous. It absolutely adds to his lovability factor that Gideon Kelly (from the Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh) is his best friend. I did NOT see that coming, but was a fun bit thrown in by the author for her loyal readers. Looking for Billy Shakespeare ultimately teaches us that if something looks too good to be true, it may, in fact, be just the opposite and be the best thing ever! If you’re a fan of quick romantic reads, with a bit of humor and relatable characters, you will never go wrong with anything written by Crista McHugh. Searching for Billy Shakespeare is fun, engaging and endearing. I’m hoping we’ll get a follow-up for some of the other characters we met in this one. Well done, Crista McHugh! Very well done!
December 18, 2017
“Searching for Billy Shakespeare” is on f the most fun, trendy and spunky romances I’ve read. Penned by Crista McHugh, Gabe Harrison (appeared in her Kelly series) gets his own happy story with Kate Mireau, the introverted grad student and the Shakespeare addict working on her dissertation.
Teaching literature as she finishes her dissertation, circumstances take Kate Mireau to the residence of Ari to share an apartment. With makeovers and care, friendship brews and late night calls with Gabe Harrison, spurs the sparks of romance.
Gabe Harrison is auditioning for a role that requires Kate’s expertise in Shakespeare, and with late night calls, conversations and a family incident brings Gabe face to face with the stunning and elusive Kate and he’s willing to go “Measure To Measure” to make Kate his forever. Insecurities and fears are shared, gossip and conversations are discussed, and feelings and emotions are addressed, all with the power of love remaining the ultimate.
Looks like Crista McHugh came back with a stunning story after a brief hiatus and what a comeback. I was so entertained with her Kelly Series, and now with “Searching For Billy Shakespeare” shows her penmanship and her mastery of narration. It’s beautiful reading Gabe get his love story, the appearance of the Kelly brothers, and the attention she pays to Kate’s feelings in regards to discovering Gabe being a prominent Hollywood actor – all add so much depth and personality to the characters.
What can I say about Crista – she’s been and will be one of my all time favorite writers. She writes such genuine love stories that are so relatable to our daily lives and makes reading them such a pleasure. Simple, classy and charming creations are her fictions.
Received an ARC from Seasons Publishing via NetGalley and the Author for an honest review.
Teaching literature as she finishes her dissertation, circumstances take Kate Mireau to the residence of Ari to share an apartment. With makeovers and care, friendship brews and late night calls with Gabe Harrison, spurs the sparks of romance.
Gabe Harrison is auditioning for a role that requires Kate’s expertise in Shakespeare, and with late night calls, conversations and a family incident brings Gabe face to face with the stunning and elusive Kate and he’s willing to go “Measure To Measure” to make Kate his forever. Insecurities and fears are shared, gossip and conversations are discussed, and feelings and emotions are addressed, all with the power of love remaining the ultimate.
Looks like Crista McHugh came back with a stunning story after a brief hiatus and what a comeback. I was so entertained with her Kelly Series, and now with “Searching For Billy Shakespeare” shows her penmanship and her mastery of narration. It’s beautiful reading Gabe get his love story, the appearance of the Kelly brothers, and the attention she pays to Kate’s feelings in regards to discovering Gabe being a prominent Hollywood actor – all add so much depth and personality to the characters.
What can I say about Crista – she’s been and will be one of my all time favorite writers. She writes such genuine love stories that are so relatable to our daily lives and makes reading them such a pleasure. Simple, classy and charming creations are her fictions.
Received an ARC from Seasons Publishing via NetGalley and the Author for an honest review.
December 26, 2017
Searching for Billy Shakespeare, Crista McHugh
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
I loved the description – I adore movie star romances – but though Crista has written many books I've only read one, Here All Along, which is about Gabe's friend Gideon, and it didn't really work for me. Still, hesitantly I requested and – I'm so glad I did as I loved it.
It doesn't have the deep, heavy angst and drama I love so much, but Kate and Gabe were such great characters that I still was totally hooked by it. We don't actually meet Gabe til nearly halfway through, but he's there in multiple phone conversations with Kate and I was in love with him just from those ;-)
Kate's wonderful, studious and slightly klutzy, and with a total jerk of a boyfriend, Mike. He seriously took her for granted, and in way he'd become just a safe habit for her. He'd sapped her confidence which is why she left him get away with it. Catching him out was awful, but with the help of her friend Lizzie moving out and on was the best thing she could have done. I was hoping the jerk would get to see just how well she'd moved on from him but...maybe in another book as a secondary plot.
I loved her, she was so hardworking, so honest and one of those people who are just plain Right. She worked hard at her PHD, did the best she could for her students, was a good friend to Lizzie, and TBH had been carrying Mike when it came to relationships. All that time though, she was a bit lost, a bit marking time it seemed, not sure of direction, and Gabe came along at just the right time.
I love that she doesn't know who Gabe is, so she's not awed by him, treats him as anyone else. He needs that, the Gabe I remember from the other book was a bit of a prat, but here he's wonderful. Maybe he just reflects how he's treated, and Kate talks to him as an equal so he reacts back the same way. He admires her intelligence, isn't awed by it as so many people are, and that gives her confidence.
Its a great fun read, I really enjoyed all of it, made me smile and I was so understanding of how Kate felt. I did wish for a teeny bit more angst, y'know, the sad bit that usually hits about 80% when relationships hit a block, but that's just me, and this was still a perfect read without.
Its not one I'll re-read though I think, I'd need the drama for that but I'll certainly feel Crista is an author whose work I wont hesitate to try again.
Stars: Five, a great fun read, a real feel good romance, though for me I could have had a teeny but more sad parts.....
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
December 12, 2017
Kate is a grad student at Columbia, working on her dissertation on Shakespeare. When she catches her boyfriend cheating on her she has to find another place to stay and she is fortunate to find a new apartment (and roommate) at the East Side of Manhattan. Low rent and she only has to cater to her new roommate by making breakfast en cleaning the apartment.
When the brother of her roommate calls one night she is immediately taken in by his voice. And when he asks her to help him prepare for an audition on her fave subject (Shakespeare) Kate is happy to oblige. She and Gabe have long telephone conversations and Kate develops a crush on someone she has never even met! Until the day they do meet...
This is my first book by this author and I was attracted by the cute cover and the blurb. Love me some smart heroines and Kate is also an introvert. I actually did not really deduct that from the story, she was more shy to me. However, she was very able to stand up for herself.
I read this in a couple of hours and even delayed going to bed as I wanted to read on. There is no drama-for-the-sake-of-drama in this book. It is mostly about Kate and the changes in her life after meeting new people. The relationship between Kate and Gabe was really sweet.
I give it 5 stars as it grabbed my attention and even spurred me on to read it in one sitting.
*** I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my honest review. ***
When the brother of her roommate calls one night she is immediately taken in by his voice. And when he asks her to help him prepare for an audition on her fave subject (Shakespeare) Kate is happy to oblige. She and Gabe have long telephone conversations and Kate develops a crush on someone she has never even met! Until the day they do meet...
This is my first book by this author and I was attracted by the cute cover and the blurb. Love me some smart heroines and Kate is also an introvert. I actually did not really deduct that from the story, she was more shy to me. However, she was very able to stand up for herself.
I read this in a couple of hours and even delayed going to bed as I wanted to read on. There is no drama-for-the-sake-of-drama in this book. It is mostly about Kate and the changes in her life after meeting new people. The relationship between Kate and Gabe was really sweet.
I give it 5 stars as it grabbed my attention and even spurred me on to read it in one sitting.
*** I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my honest review. ***
February 5, 2018
So this was a fun and quick read for me, it was set in New York, it had a mini makeover with a twist and the female lead, Kate, was quite delightful. Finding her fiance inflagrante delicto in their shared flat was enough to make any woman run to her BFF and lick her wounds. But when said BFF is sharing her own apartment with her own significant other, she needed to find her own place quickly. Sadly, a grad student just can't afford what's available in the always expensive rental hell of NYC. What luck then when an ad placement for a Park Ave rent controlled apartment comes up! Nevermind that the roommate they seem to be looking for sounds more like the maid than a roomie, Kate was had with rent controlled. Plus a desperate woman can't be too choosy. Little did she know that her life would change in more ways than one. Finding Billy Shakespeare was definitely a cute and funny and definitely romantic read. Although the romance is simple enough, without too much external conflict, it was the female leads own self discovery and fighting of her own anxieties and insecurities that hold the story. Gabe was definitely a great romantic lead but appears nearly two dimensional besides Kate. Still this romance would definitely make you swoon!
December 18, 2017
I love the premise of this book, and the quotes from Shakespeare that open each chapter are delightful. The book is well written in terms of being free of distracting grammatical errors or plot holes. Nonetheless, I had trouble staying focused on the story as it played out. I didn't feel much connection to the characters, and some things seemed a bit ridiculous to me (e.g., Gabe's sister). Maybe it's because I felt like the blurb was a bit misleading (I didn't think the description of Kate was spot-on, and the blurb made me think this would be a romantic comedy, but it's not, at least in my opinion), or maybe it's because it took a while for Gabe and Kate to connect, but I struggled to get through parts of this one. I think there is an audience for this book, but sadly, it's not me.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2018
Searching for Billy Shakespeare by Crista McHugh
I like romantic stories and this story about a graduate student who is an introvert and very shy who falls in love with a Hollywood celebrity. I can’t lie it took me a lot longer to get into this book because the plot did not wow me as much as I wanted it to wow me. I was actually left feeling pretty disappointed and let down.
I like the fact that the author includes quotes and the background of the story matches the feel of the story but I just did not find myself connecting to these characters in the manner that I would have liked to have had connected to them.
The characters are at least relatable but I was wishing for more, I’m sorry to say this book didn’t work for me, but it may work for other readers. I hope it does.
3 stars
I like romantic stories and this story about a graduate student who is an introvert and very shy who falls in love with a Hollywood celebrity. I can’t lie it took me a lot longer to get into this book because the plot did not wow me as much as I wanted it to wow me. I was actually left feeling pretty disappointed and let down.
I like the fact that the author includes quotes and the background of the story matches the feel of the story but I just did not find myself connecting to these characters in the manner that I would have liked to have had connected to them.
The characters are at least relatable but I was wishing for more, I’m sorry to say this book didn’t work for me, but it may work for other readers. I hope it does.
3 stars
December 9, 2017
4.5 stars
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my rating or review in any way.
This book connected with the Kelly Brothers series!!!!!!!!! We got references to Ethan and actually got to see Gideon and Sage/Sarah. I was not expecting it and it made me so happy. Plus I really enjoyed that Kate was a scholar of William Shakespeare, and as someone who holds a B.A. in Literature, I related to her so much. The reason I marked this down is because it utilizes a trope that kind of bothers me...the attractive female character who doesn't realize she's pretty until someone gives her a makeover. Still, it was a fun and fast read and I really enjoyed Gabe as a romantic interest.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my rating or review in any way.
This book connected with the Kelly Brothers series!!!!!!!!! We got references to Ethan and actually got to see Gideon and Sage/Sarah. I was not expecting it and it made me so happy. Plus I really enjoyed that Kate was a scholar of William Shakespeare, and as someone who holds a B.A. in Literature, I related to her so much. The reason I marked this down is because it utilizes a trope that kind of bothers me...the attractive female character who doesn't realize she's pretty until someone gives her a makeover. Still, it was a fun and fast read and I really enjoyed Gabe as a romantic interest.
January 1, 2018
Kate’s working on her doctorate using William Shakespeare as her thesis. Her life isn’t anything exciting with her boyfriend and work, but that’s life, right? Until she finds out her live in boyfriend is cheating on her and she needs a new place to live. Her new roommate’s brother, Gabe, is wonderful sounding over the phone but will he be the same in person? Gabe needs Kate’s help when he’s trying out for a serious role in a William Shakespeare play. Kate gives Gabe some help but she also makes him read and think about the characters on his own. This is a sweet romance that brings Kate and Gabe together with a unique premise.
December 10, 2017
I received this book from the author and was so happy. Crista as usual gave us another amazing book, that I really hope will have a second book added. we also got to visit Gideon and Sara from the Kelly Brothers series. I was sad to see the book end. This series focuses around Kate, a grad student who falls in love with her roommates brother, who is a movie star. Kate helps him prepare for an audition for a Shakespeare role. When they meet, the sparks fly. This is such a sweet love story. A must read.
December 28, 2017
Searching for Billy Shakespeare is a cute story by Crista McHugh. Mistaken identity and a woman with a lack of self-confidence gives this love story a bumpy ride. However, love does prevail with a smile on this reader’s face. This is a tongue-in-cheek, fun, quick paced story with a shout out to the Bard himself.
A few of the Kelly Brothers make an appearance, too. If you’re a fan of that series, (my all-time favorite series by Crista McHugh), it made the story even better!
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
A few of the Kelly Brothers make an appearance, too. If you’re a fan of that series, (my all-time favorite series by Crista McHugh), it made the story even better!
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
February 4, 2018
When Kate catches her boyfriend cheating on her she has to move and find a new place to live, with the help of her friend Lizzie she finds a flat share and swears off men apart from her hero William Shakespeare who she is doing her dissertation on! That is of course until her flat mate's brother rings her wanting some help with a Shakespeare part he is playing...... and if she falls in love with his voice on the phone wait till she meets him in the flesh!
A lovely feel good book, predictable but fun a nice easy book to curl up with and enjoy
A lovely feel good book, predictable but fun a nice easy book to curl up with and enjoy
January 2, 2018
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
January 19, 2018
Searching for Billy Shakespeare by Crista McHugh is an interesting romantic comedy about a dead poet, a Hollywood celebrity and a female graduate student working on a PH.D in English. It is keeps you interested in the story. I enjoyed the fact that Shakespeare was used in the story. Crista McHugh does a wonderful job of weaving a story that makes sense today but also makes Shakespeare interesting.
I received a copy thru a Goodreads Giveaway.
I received a copy thru a Goodreads Giveaway.
December 15, 2017
Chick lit, first person single POV. Reminiscent of books I used to read many years ago. I tend to stick with contemporary romance nowadays, but I had fun with this book for a change of pace. Quick read. Kate was awesome, the stereotypical nerdy phD student. Once she steps out of her comfort zone and realizes that Gabe will stick with her, despite her klutzi- and normalness, she gets the guy!
December 24, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I’m not a Shakespeare’s fan but the book was interesting enough that it didn’t matter. I loved Kate and her nerdyness, thought Gabe was perfect before I even knew who he was. I loved the friendship of Livvy and Livvys commitment to Alisha. And of course I thought Stan was perfect. Great characters, real life for a Columbia Student. Great story
December 31, 2017
This was a fun, light-hearted read about a student seeking her PhD, finding self-confidence and embracing new opportunities and experiences. It had fun allusions to Shakespeare and loveable characters who had you cheering for them.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my review.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my review.
December 18, 2017
Fun romance. This is really a transformation story about Kate as she works through the breakup with her fiancé and then slowly starts to course correct her own life. I enjoyed watching her find her own style and voice.
December 12, 2017
This is a fun book, a quick read with likeable characters and a unique plot. I loved getting to catch up with the Kelly's, and getting to know Kate and Gabe.
February 12, 2018
This was such a fun and romantic book! I love Shakespeare and I loved these characters too! Gabe is completely swoony and Kate is a fun heroine! A great story!
July 23, 2019
Very clever writing. Loved the premise of the book. Very entertaining.
June 14, 2023
I loved this adorable romance. The magical words of the bard are mixed in with this opposites attract (PhD student and Hollywood pretty boy) story. I will 100% pick up another book by McHugh.
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