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Table for Two
Trying to take a few brief moments away from a stressful situation, Reagan Murphy snags the last table at a bustling downtown lunch spot. When another woman walks into the crowded restaurant seeking a table, Reagan offers to share hers. Jillian Jacobs just wanted a quick bite before she’d have to focus on a new and unreasonable deadline. Irritated by her empty stomach and by the prospect of waiting, Jillian resentfully accepts a seat at a stranger’s table. Their shared lunch is filled with hostility, snide comments, and shades of derision from Jill and Reagan finds herself relieved at the end of the encounter. But then the two are thrown back together when Jill becomes a catering client of Reagan’s. Soon navigating a professional relationship becomes complicated as their attraction begins to smolder. Will it get in the way and cause even bigger problems? Or will this be the start of something they’ve both been looking for all along?
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2021
27 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Kate Gavin
4 books53 followersKate Gavin is a native Midwesterner, currently living in Ohio. When not staring at a computer screen for her day job or this writing gig, she spends her time retrieving items from her thieving dog, chasing after her kiddo, and bingeing TV shows with her wife.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
March 21, 2021
'ARC provided by both NetGalley and The Publisher in exchange for a honest review'
**'You as a good writer try to write what you write and then either it holds up or it doesn't hold up.There are no rules or particular sensibilities...'
4.5stars!
My first time reading something by Kate Gavin and I don't think it will be the only time because everything about this particular story has this feel of both realism and believability -- plus no reader can past on a well written story. 'TABLE FOR TWO' will literally grab you from the beginning to the last sentence -- unleashing a roller-coaster of emotions because of it's pragmatic storytelling. More than anything, 'TABLE FOR TWO' is also a heartwarming read -- where Ms.Gavin help readers to get a glimpse of this natural ability to put words and sentences together to mean something while in another breath she makes them privy to the perspectives of every other important character interacting with both leads (Reagan & Jillian) which was very thoughtful by Ms.Gavin.
The storyline did reveal an unflinching expression of Reagan's vulnerabilities that did make her appear human to readers -- and this unbound celebration of friends & family whether in sadness or life's achievements.
It's during a time where Reagan was struggling with her father's depleting health that she crosses part with Jillian then they got into this heated exchange but this brief moment and a few more interactions did lead to this intense romantic connection. Anger, emotional trauma, misplaced priorities etc. did lead to their break-up but as the storyline progresses few readers might actually see that predictability is in play because of how each felt about the other. Jillian was faced with doubts and inner questions about herself; like how much of who she was or wants to become rests not just in her mind but in her heart and body. So committing to being a better partner and person starts within then trusting to be open for changes in her life.
Overall, this story is also about identity, has a bit about second chances and the courage to starting life afresh.
A highly recommended book!
**'You as a good writer try to write what you write and then either it holds up or it doesn't hold up.There are no rules or particular sensibilities...'
4.5stars!
My first time reading something by Kate Gavin and I don't think it will be the only time because everything about this particular story has this feel of both realism and believability -- plus no reader can past on a well written story. 'TABLE FOR TWO' will literally grab you from the beginning to the last sentence -- unleashing a roller-coaster of emotions because of it's pragmatic storytelling. More than anything, 'TABLE FOR TWO' is also a heartwarming read -- where Ms.Gavin help readers to get a glimpse of this natural ability to put words and sentences together to mean something while in another breath she makes them privy to the perspectives of every other important character interacting with both leads (Reagan & Jillian) which was very thoughtful by Ms.Gavin.
The storyline did reveal an unflinching expression of Reagan's vulnerabilities that did make her appear human to readers -- and this unbound celebration of friends & family whether in sadness or life's achievements.
It's during a time where Reagan was struggling with her father's depleting health that she crosses part with Jillian then they got into this heated exchange but this brief moment and a few more interactions did lead to this intense romantic connection. Anger, emotional trauma, misplaced priorities etc. did lead to their break-up but as the storyline progresses few readers might actually see that predictability is in play because of how each felt about the other. Jillian was faced with doubts and inner questions about herself; like how much of who she was or wants to become rests not just in her mind but in her heart and body. So committing to being a better partner and person starts within then trusting to be open for changes in her life.
Overall, this story is also about identity, has a bit about second chances and the courage to starting life afresh.
A highly recommended book!
March 16, 2021
4.25 Stars. This was just what I wanted. I have not had the best luck with romance books in the first quarter of 21. A few too many books have been stuck in just the okay category so this was the good romance I needed. I read Gavin’s debut book, back in 2019, and liked it. It had bumps but it was a solid debut filled with some real potential. This book, her second, showed how she has grown as an author and Gavin is now on my authors to watch list. Her writing style is comfortable to read and it makes me excited to think what she has instore for us in the future.
Do you know that feeling when you start reading a book and know after only a few pages that you are going to enjoy it? Well, that is exactly how this book was. It only took a few pages to get sucked into the story and I knew I was hooked. I’m a big fan of ice queens and I prefer them extra icy. Jillian Jacobs fit that bill perfectly. You could almost call her an ‘ice empress’ since she was so frosty. Not only was her attitude what I was looking for, she had an actual reason for being that way. She wasn’t just mean for mean’s sake, it was a part of her roots. In the end it made it all the more rewarding when her ice started to melt.
Liking both characters helped me to connect to their romantic journey. I was invested and wanted them to be together. There were a lot of sweet romantic moments that I enjoyed and the sex scenes were well written to give the book some spark. It was a real nice balance that I think most romance fans will enjoy.
My one complaint was that I did find some of the angst a bit contrived to fit into the classic formula of a romance. I get it, it happens all the time, I just wished it could have been a little more inventive, or I even wish that I bought the conflict a little more. This is something I complain about often in romances so feel free to ignore this rant. In the end it didn’t really affect my enjoyment beyond an eye roll so it’s not too big of a complaint.
Overall, this was a really nice romance and just the kind of book I’ve been looking for. I would absolutely recommend this to fans of ice queen characters. Gavin impressed me with this one and I can’t wait to read more by her.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review
Do you know that feeling when you start reading a book and know after only a few pages that you are going to enjoy it? Well, that is exactly how this book was. It only took a few pages to get sucked into the story and I knew I was hooked. I’m a big fan of ice queens and I prefer them extra icy. Jillian Jacobs fit that bill perfectly. You could almost call her an ‘ice empress’ since she was so frosty. Not only was her attitude what I was looking for, she had an actual reason for being that way. She wasn’t just mean for mean’s sake, it was a part of her roots. In the end it made it all the more rewarding when her ice started to melt.
Liking both characters helped me to connect to their romantic journey. I was invested and wanted them to be together. There were a lot of sweet romantic moments that I enjoyed and the sex scenes were well written to give the book some spark. It was a real nice balance that I think most romance fans will enjoy.
My one complaint was that I did find some of the angst a bit contrived to fit into the classic formula of a romance. I get it, it happens all the time, I just wished it could have been a little more inventive, or I even wish that I bought the conflict a little more. This is something I complain about often in romances so feel free to ignore this rant. In the end it didn’t really affect my enjoyment beyond an eye roll so it’s not too big of a complaint.
Overall, this was a really nice romance and just the kind of book I’ve been looking for. I would absolutely recommend this to fans of ice queen characters. Gavin impressed me with this one and I can’t wait to read more by her.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review
March 16, 2021
4 Stars
“Table for Two” was a very sweet romance featuring an ice queen with the lovable girl next door.
Reagan is going through a very difficult time in her life. Her father is in the last stages of pancreatic cancer and she’s taken some time off of work to help deal with that. On a break one day she goes out to eat at a crowded restaurant and ends up sharing a table with the frosty Jillian. It’s not a good time for either one and both are happy to see the lunch end. Sometime later Reagan decides to go back to work her first client back is none other than Jillian.
Jillian was an ice queen and she was my favorite kind of ice queen. She knows her personality is brusque and cold but it doesn’t bother her too much. She was raised by terrible parents and learned from them so it isn’t something she’s done on purpose. She admits she doesn’t know how to turn it off even when she wants to.
Reagan on the other hand, was very sweet and caring. She has a close family and a tight group of friends to support her in dealing with her father’s illness. She’s the co-owner of a restaurant group with her best friend and she is hired by Jillian to cater her step-father’s birthday bash.
The two have chemistry even when they aren’t getting a long and Jill is being her iciest. Jill and Reagan were a lot of fun while getting to know each other. I liked that Reagan would stand up for herself and tell Jill when she was being wrong. Reagan was sweet but she wasn’t going to let anyone treat her the wrong way either, no matter the reason. Reagan and I both fell for Jill the more we learned about her past and how her family treated her. It was easy to see why she was so frosty and understand it. It made so much fun when the frostiness disappeared and her caring and sweeter side came out.
The only part I didn’t enjoy and it sometimes took me out of the story was some of the dialogue. It seemed melodramatic and unnatural at times. There were at least two occasions where I thought to myself “people just don’t talk like this in real life” as I was reading. I know in one instance Reagan says “I felt adrift” and I just don’t know anyone who really says “adrift” in everyday language. Other than that, I really enjoyed “Table for Two” and as this was my first time reading from Gavin, I’ll be looking forward to more of her work.
This is a pretty low angst read but it does have some sadness in line with Reagan’s father’s illness. I recommend this to fans of ice queens and opposites-attract romance.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
“Table for Two” was a very sweet romance featuring an ice queen with the lovable girl next door.
Reagan is going through a very difficult time in her life. Her father is in the last stages of pancreatic cancer and she’s taken some time off of work to help deal with that. On a break one day she goes out to eat at a crowded restaurant and ends up sharing a table with the frosty Jillian. It’s not a good time for either one and both are happy to see the lunch end. Sometime later Reagan decides to go back to work her first client back is none other than Jillian.
Jillian was an ice queen and she was my favorite kind of ice queen. She knows her personality is brusque and cold but it doesn’t bother her too much. She was raised by terrible parents and learned from them so it isn’t something she’s done on purpose. She admits she doesn’t know how to turn it off even when she wants to.
Reagan on the other hand, was very sweet and caring. She has a close family and a tight group of friends to support her in dealing with her father’s illness. She’s the co-owner of a restaurant group with her best friend and she is hired by Jillian to cater her step-father’s birthday bash.
The two have chemistry even when they aren’t getting a long and Jill is being her iciest. Jill and Reagan were a lot of fun while getting to know each other. I liked that Reagan would stand up for herself and tell Jill when she was being wrong. Reagan was sweet but she wasn’t going to let anyone treat her the wrong way either, no matter the reason. Reagan and I both fell for Jill the more we learned about her past and how her family treated her. It was easy to see why she was so frosty and understand it. It made so much fun when the frostiness disappeared and her caring and sweeter side came out.
The only part I didn’t enjoy and it sometimes took me out of the story was some of the dialogue. It seemed melodramatic and unnatural at times. There were at least two occasions where I thought to myself “people just don’t talk like this in real life” as I was reading. I know in one instance Reagan says “I felt adrift” and I just don’t know anyone who really says “adrift” in everyday language. Other than that, I really enjoyed “Table for Two” and as this was my first time reading from Gavin, I’ll be looking forward to more of her work.
This is a pretty low angst read but it does have some sadness in line with Reagan’s father’s illness. I recommend this to fans of ice queens and opposites-attract romance.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2021
4.5⭐️ – The way my brain works, I rarely remember stories, and never in details. Sometimes I’ll remember characters, usually not their names. What I remember are emotions and feelings. When I saw Kate Gavin’s name, I knew I had read a book by her and the emotion her name evoked was something like “why not”. I’ll be honest, even after rereading the review I wrote of that book, Full of Promise, I don’t remember it (which really doesn’t mean it wasn’t good, my memory sucks). But the last sentence of the review (“There’s nothing groundbreaking about it but it’s heartwarming and totally worth reading”) plus that feeling in my head were enough for me to want to give Table for Two a try. I am so glad I did! Sure, it made me cry and I don’t like crying but if a book must make me cry, that’s the way to do it.
Jillian is an ice queen (a euphemism for what she really is) but she doesn’t want to be. She says it herself, she doesn’t know how to turn it off. Growing up with an excruciatingly demanding mother and a stepfather who didn’t notice her most of the time, Jill is as closed off as can be. She hides her social awkwardness behind an icy and at times downright rude facade. Meeting Reagan, who is kind and patient but won’t take shit from anyone, will change everything. Reagan is living one of the most difficult moments of her life, her father is dying of pancreatic cancer and she’s trying not to waste a second of the time he has left. One of her two best friends is also her business partner and picks up the slack when Reagan needs more time for her family. When her parents insist she goes back to work, Reagan is determined to be at her best, even when dealing with the oh-so-attractive yet oh-so-difficult Jillian.
I have to say, Reagan charmed me immediately but I have a soft spot for misunderstood characters who learn to show vulnerability. My heart broke for Jill more than once and when the dreaded breakup occurred, I could understand Reagan’s reaction but I was crushed on Jill’s behalf anyhow. Gavin pushed the angst to the max (for a mercifully short time) and I loved every second of it.
Besides Jill and Reagan, I loved Reagan’s parents, hated Jill’s family, and I wish everyone had friends (I include Ash, Jill’s non-binary assistant) like both have to support and love them.
If you couldn’t tell already, I enjoyed this book very much. I’m pretty sure the next time I come across Kate Gavin’s name, I won’t need to check my reviews to confirm that yes, I want to read her books.
ARC provided to LeZReviewBooks for an honest review.
Jillian is an ice queen (a euphemism for what she really is) but she doesn’t want to be. She says it herself, she doesn’t know how to turn it off. Growing up with an excruciatingly demanding mother and a stepfather who didn’t notice her most of the time, Jill is as closed off as can be. She hides her social awkwardness behind an icy and at times downright rude facade. Meeting Reagan, who is kind and patient but won’t take shit from anyone, will change everything. Reagan is living one of the most difficult moments of her life, her father is dying of pancreatic cancer and she’s trying not to waste a second of the time he has left. One of her two best friends is also her business partner and picks up the slack when Reagan needs more time for her family. When her parents insist she goes back to work, Reagan is determined to be at her best, even when dealing with the oh-so-attractive yet oh-so-difficult Jillian.
I have to say, Reagan charmed me immediately but I have a soft spot for misunderstood characters who learn to show vulnerability. My heart broke for Jill more than once and when the dreaded breakup occurred, I could understand Reagan’s reaction but I was crushed on Jill’s behalf anyhow. Gavin pushed the angst to the max (for a mercifully short time) and I loved every second of it.
Besides Jill and Reagan, I loved Reagan’s parents, hated Jill’s family, and I wish everyone had friends (I include Ash, Jill’s non-binary assistant) like both have to support and love them.
If you couldn’t tell already, I enjoyed this book very much. I’m pretty sure the next time I come across Kate Gavin’s name, I won’t need to check my reviews to confirm that yes, I want to read her books.
ARC provided to LeZReviewBooks for an honest review.
March 22, 2021
Enjoyed this one a great deal, despite a weak start.
I enjoyed this one quite a bit and I think the dynamics between Jill and Reagan ended up being so good, it almost negated the fact that the book started out bad. It was hard to like the concept of them at first. Jill was plain rude, so how she could have left the slightest positive impression on Reagan, even if it's just physical, baffled me. And Jill didn't seem at all capable of liking another human being so I was pretty unconvinced that they could have anything substantial to work with.
But I'm glad it got a lot better after a while and Jill ended up pretty likeable even though she continued making poor decisions here and there. But she tried. And I like her tenderness and protectiveness of Reagan which was ascentuated by her nastiness towards other people. Jill and Reagan have a wonderful relationship despite being complete opposites in terms of personality and background. What was interesting was the contrasting family dynamics that came into play when they were brought into each other's worlds - Jill's elitist family vs Reagan's close-knit middle class one. And I love those private moments, the comfort they offer to each other, in Reagan's grief and Jill's loneliness.
So yes, despite the weak start, I enjoyed this book a great deal.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this one quite a bit and I think the dynamics between Jill and Reagan ended up being so good, it almost negated the fact that the book started out bad. It was hard to like the concept of them at first. Jill was plain rude, so how she could have left the slightest positive impression on Reagan, even if it's just physical, baffled me. And Jill didn't seem at all capable of liking another human being so I was pretty unconvinced that they could have anything substantial to work with.
But I'm glad it got a lot better after a while and Jill ended up pretty likeable even though she continued making poor decisions here and there. But she tried. And I like her tenderness and protectiveness of Reagan which was ascentuated by her nastiness towards other people. Jill and Reagan have a wonderful relationship despite being complete opposites in terms of personality and background. What was interesting was the contrasting family dynamics that came into play when they were brought into each other's worlds - Jill's elitist family vs Reagan's close-knit middle class one. And I love those private moments, the comfort they offer to each other, in Reagan's grief and Jill's loneliness.
So yes, despite the weak start, I enjoyed this book a great deal.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2021
A very good read, such warmth and that with an ice queen! I had not read anything by Gavin before, but this was a good introduction and I look forward to reading more by her. This was a sweet read with interesting main characters and nicely fleshed out secondary characters. There is not a lot of angst in the book, but there are a lot of emotions as one of the main storylines is about losing a loved one.
Reagan is the co-owner of several restaurants with her best friend, but she is temporarily cutting down her hours to care for her terminally ill father. I immediately liked her, she’s a gentle and warm soul, but does not let people walk all over her. Jill on the other hand, is an ice queen and beyond. In fact, she is plain rude and contemptuous. They say first impressions are everything. In that case, there is not much hope for Reagan and Jill as they meet when being forced to share the last table during lunch and it is not a pleasant experience. Later, it turns out that Reagan has to work for Jill to organize a catering job, you can imagine her joy…
Obviously, Jill is hard to like at first, but I thought Gavin did a really good job in bringing her around. With some ice queen characters, it is immediately clear that they are in fact a bit of marshmallow on the inside, secretly hoping to find love and a connection, so basically, they’re not really ice queens. This was not the case with Jill, she’s cold and it takes quite some time for her to realize that perhaps she wants/needs more in life than work. When we get to meet the family it is clear why, her family is just as emotionally unavailable as Jill is and I slowly began to understand Jill and started liking her and rooting for her.
Where Jill’s family is cold and detached, Reagan’s family is warm and inviting and you understand the differences in their personalities. As I already mentioned, Jill is dealing with her father’s illness and impending death and there is a lot of emotion and sadness, but I didn’t find it very depressing to read. It plays an important role in the book and also in the relationship of Reagan and Jill. You easily see a conflict coming, but it worked well for me, it had some good angst and, most importantly, I understood the actions of both mains.
All in all, an excellent romance. It is not the most surprising story, and I’m not sure whether I will remember the details in time to come, but that is not necessary to enjoy a book, and yes, I liked this a lot as it just left me feeling warm and fuzzy. I easily recommend this to anyone looking for a good romance.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Reagan is the co-owner of several restaurants with her best friend, but she is temporarily cutting down her hours to care for her terminally ill father. I immediately liked her, she’s a gentle and warm soul, but does not let people walk all over her. Jill on the other hand, is an ice queen and beyond. In fact, she is plain rude and contemptuous. They say first impressions are everything. In that case, there is not much hope for Reagan and Jill as they meet when being forced to share the last table during lunch and it is not a pleasant experience. Later, it turns out that Reagan has to work for Jill to organize a catering job, you can imagine her joy…
Obviously, Jill is hard to like at first, but I thought Gavin did a really good job in bringing her around. With some ice queen characters, it is immediately clear that they are in fact a bit of marshmallow on the inside, secretly hoping to find love and a connection, so basically, they’re not really ice queens. This was not the case with Jill, she’s cold and it takes quite some time for her to realize that perhaps she wants/needs more in life than work. When we get to meet the family it is clear why, her family is just as emotionally unavailable as Jill is and I slowly began to understand Jill and started liking her and rooting for her.
Where Jill’s family is cold and detached, Reagan’s family is warm and inviting and you understand the differences in their personalities. As I already mentioned, Jill is dealing with her father’s illness and impending death and there is a lot of emotion and sadness, but I didn’t find it very depressing to read. It plays an important role in the book and also in the relationship of Reagan and Jill. You easily see a conflict coming, but it worked well for me, it had some good angst and, most importantly, I understood the actions of both mains.
All in all, an excellent romance. It is not the most surprising story, and I’m not sure whether I will remember the details in time to come, but that is not necessary to enjoy a book, and yes, I liked this a lot as it just left me feeling warm and fuzzy. I easily recommend this to anyone looking for a good romance.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2021
I’m not sure why I was surprised that I enjoyed this so much, but this is definitely falling into the category of one of my favourite books of the year so far.
Reagan owns a number of restaurants with her best friend. She’s dealing with the terminal illness of her father and is convinced to take a break for a few hours. Whilst getting lunch she finds herself sharing a table with Jillian.
Jillian, or Jill, is an ice queen workaholic, who automatically makes presumptions about Reagan. They both “enjoy the view” over lunch, but don’t leave each other on good terms. They’re thrown back together when Jill ends up planning her stepfathers birthday party and Reagan’s company is hired to do the catering.
Gavin provided the perfect mix of sadness, disappointment, hope, joy and love for me. Whilst Jill and Reagan’s family issues are very different, they have a shared knowing and understanding that makes them great partners for each other.
I loved that Gavin didn’t automatically make Jill less of an ice queen just because Reagan walked into her life one day and I especially enjoyed her character arc because of this. Her enlightening moments are really well done and the internal conflict and understanding she comes to feels very genuine.
Reagan has to take a leap of faith, and I enjoyed the aspects of the storyline where she is attempting to connect with Jill. szadfrerI also liked that Reagan calls Jill out regularly and that it becomes a great part of their relationship.
The parts of the narrative that take place when the MCs are apart from each other really add to the storyline. Reagan’s friends are well written and I love the protective gestures and holding Jill to account that take place. The scenes with Reagan’s mom are really well done, with a kindness and gentleness to them that act in stark contrast to Jill’s family. The way they are articulated ensures that you can understand where Jill has come from and why she is the way she is.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but anyone who has read lots of my reviews knows I’m a sucker for the inclusion of a pet in a book, so the added addition of a number of dogs in the narrative was definitely a positive factor for me, even without the impact they have on the storyline and allowing us to see some things.
I think any sapphic romance fan will enjoy this, especially ice queen fans and would happily recommend this.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Reagan owns a number of restaurants with her best friend. She’s dealing with the terminal illness of her father and is convinced to take a break for a few hours. Whilst getting lunch she finds herself sharing a table with Jillian.
Jillian, or Jill, is an ice queen workaholic, who automatically makes presumptions about Reagan. They both “enjoy the view” over lunch, but don’t leave each other on good terms. They’re thrown back together when Jill ends up planning her stepfathers birthday party and Reagan’s company is hired to do the catering.
Gavin provided the perfect mix of sadness, disappointment, hope, joy and love for me. Whilst Jill and Reagan’s family issues are very different, they have a shared knowing and understanding that makes them great partners for each other.
I loved that Gavin didn’t automatically make Jill less of an ice queen just because Reagan walked into her life one day and I especially enjoyed her character arc because of this. Her enlightening moments are really well done and the internal conflict and understanding she comes to feels very genuine.
Reagan has to take a leap of faith, and I enjoyed the aspects of the storyline where she is attempting to connect with Jill. szadfrerI also liked that Reagan calls Jill out regularly and that it becomes a great part of their relationship.
The parts of the narrative that take place when the MCs are apart from each other really add to the storyline. Reagan’s friends are well written and I love the protective gestures and holding Jill to account that take place. The scenes with Reagan’s mom are really well done, with a kindness and gentleness to them that act in stark contrast to Jill’s family. The way they are articulated ensures that you can understand where Jill has come from and why she is the way she is.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but anyone who has read lots of my reviews knows I’m a sucker for the inclusion of a pet in a book, so the added addition of a number of dogs in the narrative was definitely a positive factor for me, even without the impact they have on the storyline and allowing us to see some things.
I think any sapphic romance fan will enjoy this, especially ice queen fans and would happily recommend this.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2021
This is the second novel by Kate Gavin, but the first I have read. After reading it I will definitely put the author on my "waiting for the next book" list.
Table for Two has almost everything a good romantic story must have. Believable and complex protagonists with good chemistry, a few good supporting characters, well written emotions, a plausible conflict, and an interesting plot. A combination of an ice queen from a dysfunctional family and her complete opposite worked quite successfully and with Gavin's technically good writing made this novel very well worth reading. If you are a romance fan, I very much recommend it. I had a hard time putting it down, and will read it again.
4.25 stars
March 21, 2021
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
Table for Two has almost everything a good romantic story must have. Believable and complex protagonists with good chemistry, a few good supporting characters, well written emotions, a plausible conflict, and an interesting plot. A combination of an ice queen from a dysfunctional family and her complete opposite worked quite successfully and with Gavin's technically good writing made this novel very well worth reading. If you are a romance fan, I very much recommend it. I had a hard time putting it down, and will read it again.
4.25 stars
March 21, 2021
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
March 15, 2021
Table for Two by Kate Gavin is an absolutely lovely romance novel with everything I could ask for in a love story. The tale revolves around two women (Reagan Murphy and Jillian Jacobs) who meet accidentally when they have to share the last table in a café for lunch. That first meeting doesn’t go well. Things become even more awkward after the two are thrown together again when Reagan’s restaurant is hired to cater a party for Jill’s mother. If only the two could stop thinking about each other.
This book hits just about all of my “must haves” for a great romance. We have Jill, the prickly ice queen that you can’t help but fall in love with, especially after you get to know the person inside that sharp exterior. And there is Reagan who is going through a stressful family situation. Both characters are well-developed, and it’s easy to see the chemistry between the two grow as they interact with each other. The story has just the right amount of angst. The hurdles they face to become a couple will keep you reading until the very end.
I really can’t find anything bad to say about this book. This is the first novel I’ve read by Ms. Gavin, but it won’t be the last.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
This book hits just about all of my “must haves” for a great romance. We have Jill, the prickly ice queen that you can’t help but fall in love with, especially after you get to know the person inside that sharp exterior. And there is Reagan who is going through a stressful family situation. Both characters are well-developed, and it’s easy to see the chemistry between the two grow as they interact with each other. The story has just the right amount of angst. The hurdles they face to become a couple will keep you reading until the very end.
I really can’t find anything bad to say about this book. This is the first novel I’ve read by Ms. Gavin, but it won’t be the last.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
April 8, 2021
I picked up this book because I kept seeing good reviews, and it definitely did not disappoint!
Reagan Murphy met Jillian Jacobs when they shared a table in a restaurant during an especially busy day. Though they were drawn to each other’s looks, Jillian was just too rude and unpleasant. They think nothing of it until they find themselves needing to work with each other as Jill’s mother hired Reagan’s company to do the catering in her stepfather’s birthday party.
It's my first time to read a Kate Gavin book, and I must say that I'm really impressed! I felt that it was well-written. Although I did spot an error, the overall story just flowed for me. I thought that the pacing was perfect and that there were no boring moments. I found myself unable to stop reading unless I really had to.
Characters can make a break a book for me, so it's really fortunate that I loved how they were written. There was a real depth to each of them. They both had their own history which explains their behaviors. Reagan grew up with a lot of love and has a great relationship with her family. Jillian, on the other hand, grew up in a cold and unloving household, and has always been treated poorly by her parents. As such, she has difficulty expressing positive emotions. After reading so many books with characters marketed as “ice queens”, I’m glad Jill really fit the bill. Kate Gavin succeeded in writing one of my favorite things about ice queens – the slow thawing or shredding of the prickly bits for the person they love. In this book, we see how Jill tries and struggles and even fails at times. It’s just a joy to read for me!
The main characters had great chemistry for me. I believed they really saw something special in each other. I also loved that they were mature enough to communicate. Both were really trying their best to figure out their feelings and eventually make it work. I totally buy their romance, and I can’t help but feel giddy every time they hold hands or touch. They always seem to find a reason to touch each other in a tender and comforting way.
The supporting characters were also strong, and they had their own roles to play. Reagan’s parents and friends were all wonderful. Although Jill’s mom was trash, I still appreciate her role in the book.
I really don’t like it when a conflict happens so late in a book, but I could forgive it this time because it didn’t feel contrived to me. I felt like it was bound to happen, so I was just waiting. Despite being prepared for it, though, it still hurt because of how invested I was in their story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. I would say it’s one of the best books I’ve read so far this year. Looking forward to more of her books! 4.5 stars ⭐️
Reagan Murphy met Jillian Jacobs when they shared a table in a restaurant during an especially busy day. Though they were drawn to each other’s looks, Jillian was just too rude and unpleasant. They think nothing of it until they find themselves needing to work with each other as Jill’s mother hired Reagan’s company to do the catering in her stepfather’s birthday party.
It's my first time to read a Kate Gavin book, and I must say that I'm really impressed! I felt that it was well-written. Although I did spot an error, the overall story just flowed for me. I thought that the pacing was perfect and that there were no boring moments. I found myself unable to stop reading unless I really had to.
Characters can make a break a book for me, so it's really fortunate that I loved how they were written. There was a real depth to each of them. They both had their own history which explains their behaviors. Reagan grew up with a lot of love and has a great relationship with her family. Jillian, on the other hand, grew up in a cold and unloving household, and has always been treated poorly by her parents. As such, she has difficulty expressing positive emotions. After reading so many books with characters marketed as “ice queens”, I’m glad Jill really fit the bill. Kate Gavin succeeded in writing one of my favorite things about ice queens – the slow thawing or shredding of the prickly bits for the person they love. In this book, we see how Jill tries and struggles and even fails at times. It’s just a joy to read for me!
The main characters had great chemistry for me. I believed they really saw something special in each other. I also loved that they were mature enough to communicate. Both were really trying their best to figure out their feelings and eventually make it work. I totally buy their romance, and I can’t help but feel giddy every time they hold hands or touch. They always seem to find a reason to touch each other in a tender and comforting way.
The supporting characters were also strong, and they had their own roles to play. Reagan’s parents and friends were all wonderful. Although Jill’s mom was trash, I still appreciate her role in the book.
I really don’t like it when a conflict happens so late in a book, but I could forgive it this time because it didn’t feel contrived to me. I felt like it was bound to happen, so I was just waiting. Despite being prepared for it, though, it still hurt because of how invested I was in their story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. I would say it’s one of the best books I’ve read so far this year. Looking forward to more of her books! 4.5 stars ⭐️
April 2, 2021
Typical lesfic
Low points:
Oversharing friends and mother (!!)
Breakup at 60 and 80, overblown reactions
No communication
Paint-by-numbers sex scene (one)
Ice-queen is just actually a rude person
Stalking behavior
Bright points:
They/them side character (incidentally identical to author)
No oops how did that happen pregnancy from the bi character
Low angst but lots of begging, groveling and crying
DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED BY CANCER
Overall this is an average lesfic where each MC has their besties/mother they overshare sexual details with who give them advice and cheer them on to progress the plot at just the right moment. The breakup happens at exactly 81% and is followed by months of radio silence and gets fixed just before the end. Pretty standard, nothing memorable but a fairly safe read nonetheless. The hidden subplot between Sam and Alex looks more interesting than what’s going on with the mains.
My rating: three stars
ARC received via NetGalley courtesy of the publisher in return for an honest review.
Low points:
Oversharing friends and mother (!!)
Breakup at 60 and 80, overblown reactions
No communication
Paint-by-numbers sex scene (one)
Ice-queen is just actually a rude person
Stalking behavior
Bright points:
They/them side character (incidentally identical to author)
No oops how did that happen pregnancy from the bi character
Low angst but lots of begging, groveling and crying
DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED BY CANCER
Overall this is an average lesfic where each MC has their besties/mother they overshare sexual details with who give them advice and cheer them on to progress the plot at just the right moment. The breakup happens at exactly 81% and is followed by months of radio silence and gets fixed just before the end. Pretty standard, nothing memorable but a fairly safe read nonetheless. The hidden subplot between Sam and Alex looks more interesting than what’s going on with the mains.
My rating: three stars
ARC received via NetGalley courtesy of the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 28, 2021
Very nice read. Recommend
May 8, 2021
Jill is going to be a bit of a hard sell in this story. She's harsh and abrupt and since we're in her head, we know she doesn't like that about herself but does it anyway. Which is hard to engage with, at least for me. I mean, if you are doing something you don't like and don't want, well, stop doing that. And yeah, I know it isn't that simple and kudos to Gavin for making that (mostly) hang together as it is explored in the course of the story. I mean, I eventually gained a good deal of sympathy for Jill and seeing how bereft she is of any model for kindness was heartbreaking.
Reagan was a lot easier to like and I engaged with her immediately. It's hard for me to process the kind of grief she is under because I don't have a way to relate to it. Only in this story, we are there along with her so we see her interactions with her family and can feel it all along the way. I found that incredibly touching even though it's not something I'd seek out in the normal course of things.
Two things pulled this back from being completely outstanding. The major one is that the author doesn't really bother giving us what it is that draws Reagan to Jill. It's a case of the vague "somethings" that is akin to instalust. Reagan is drawn in and we're supposed to go along. Which is hard when you know that Jill has such a strong tendency towards toxic behaviors. And this is actually compounded by knowing that Reagan is in an abnormal place due to the grief she is going through so it's hard to hang hopes on this being a lasting condition (well, besides that I'm reading a romance novel and that's the assumption).
The second was a late-story dark moment. It doesn't help that . It dropped an entire star on this alone. And that it took so long for them to clear it up afterwards wasn't any help, either (particularly because a mini-blip before had been handled so well and with good communication and an increase in mutual understanding).
So this ends up with 3½ stars that I'm willing to round up, but only just barely, because I ended up really liking the character arcs and seeing where they ended up brought all the feels.
A note about Steamy: There are three or so explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. The first couple are actually really well-done and exactly what was needed to show the increasing intimacy and overcoming their reservation to choose to be together. After that, it was pretty much gratuitous and I skimmed.
Reagan was a lot easier to like and I engaged with her immediately. It's hard for me to process the kind of grief she is under because I don't have a way to relate to it. Only in this story, we are there along with her so we see her interactions with her family and can feel it all along the way. I found that incredibly touching even though it's not something I'd seek out in the normal course of things.
Two things pulled this back from being completely outstanding. The major one is that the author doesn't really bother giving us what it is that draws Reagan to Jill. It's a case of the vague "somethings" that is akin to instalust. Reagan is drawn in and we're supposed to go along. Which is hard when you know that Jill has such a strong tendency towards toxic behaviors. And this is actually compounded by knowing that Reagan is in an abnormal place due to the grief she is going through so it's hard to hang hopes on this being a lasting condition (well, besides that I'm reading a romance novel and that's the assumption).
The second was a late-story dark moment. It doesn't help that . It dropped an entire star on this alone. And that it took so long for them to clear it up afterwards wasn't any help, either (particularly because a mini-blip before had been handled so well and with good communication and an increase in mutual understanding).
So this ends up with 3½ stars that I'm willing to round up, but only just barely, because I ended up really liking the character arcs and seeing where they ended up brought all the feels.
A note about Steamy: There are three or so explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. The first couple are actually really well-done and exactly what was needed to show the increasing intimacy and overcoming their reservation to choose to be together. After that, it was pretty much gratuitous and I skimmed.
April 3, 2021
oh, I loved!
This book leaves you feeling warm, I've not come across a book that's been able to do that in a while.
I think this is the first book I've actually read by Kate Gavin... that's going to change.
Your two main characters, Reagan Murphy, sweet caring, and kind, among other characteristics, and then you have Jillian Jacobs, highly opinionated, ice queen, rude, she has reasons for her not being able to get too close to people. The chemistry between the pair is definitely there and builds up from when they both meet. *
Reagan Murphy is trying to take a few moments to herself from her busy day, she manages to grab the last available table at a busy downtown lunch spot. When another woman walks in looking for available seating, Reagan offers to share her table with her. Jillian Jacobs just wants to grab a quick lunch and needs to focus all her attention on her new working deadline. She irritated and hungry, doesn't want to wait to be served, so accepts a seat with a stranger.
Their shared lunch is filled with hostility, rude comments, and shades of derision from jill, and Reagan finds herself relieved once the dinner is over.
The two are thrown back together when jill needs a catering client of Reagan's company. Soon navigating a professional relationship becomes complicated as their attraction begins to smolder.
All in all, this is a really good romance book. I've given it a 4.5* and I highly recommend it.
This book leaves you feeling warm, I've not come across a book that's been able to do that in a while.
I think this is the first book I've actually read by Kate Gavin... that's going to change.
Your two main characters, Reagan Murphy, sweet caring, and kind, among other characteristics, and then you have Jillian Jacobs, highly opinionated, ice queen, rude, she has reasons for her not being able to get too close to people. The chemistry between the pair is definitely there and builds up from when they both meet. *
Reagan Murphy is trying to take a few moments to herself from her busy day, she manages to grab the last available table at a busy downtown lunch spot. When another woman walks in looking for available seating, Reagan offers to share her table with her. Jillian Jacobs just wants to grab a quick lunch and needs to focus all her attention on her new working deadline. She irritated and hungry, doesn't want to wait to be served, so accepts a seat with a stranger.
Their shared lunch is filled with hostility, rude comments, and shades of derision from jill, and Reagan finds herself relieved once the dinner is over.
The two are thrown back together when jill needs a catering client of Reagan's company. Soon navigating a professional relationship becomes complicated as their attraction begins to smolder.
All in all, this is a really good romance book. I've given it a 4.5* and I highly recommend it.
December 29, 2021
I'm going to keep this short as I didn't review this novel back in November when my life was very stressful but the audiobook version really deserves praise. This is the first book I've read by this author and I have to admit that I chose it because of the narration by Anastasia Watley. I'm a fan of Ms. Watley since I listened to her superb performance of The X Ingredient by Roslyn Sinclair. I'm glad that I've given this story a chance as I really enjoyed it.
This is an enemies-to-lovers story with an ice queen thrown in the mix. I have to admit that it took me some time to warm to the icy Jillian (sorry for the pun) and that's a testament to the author's skill to build the character. She's not one-dimensional either and eventually, the reader gets to know the reasons behind her icy demeanor. Reagan is the perfect counterpoint to Jillian, open and sociable but not a pushover. She slowly learns how to handle Jillian and break her barriers. Kudos to the author as she builds the chemistry between the mains very well.
Anastasia Watley's narration is fantastic as usual, her voices are distinctive, her tone is perfect for the story, sometimes serious, other times cheeky. Her performance of the emotions is spot on and made the whole story very enjoyable. 4.5 stars.
This is an enemies-to-lovers story with an ice queen thrown in the mix. I have to admit that it took me some time to warm to the icy Jillian (sorry for the pun) and that's a testament to the author's skill to build the character. She's not one-dimensional either and eventually, the reader gets to know the reasons behind her icy demeanor. Reagan is the perfect counterpoint to Jillian, open and sociable but not a pushover. She slowly learns how to handle Jillian and break her barriers. Kudos to the author as she builds the chemistry between the mains very well.
Anastasia Watley's narration is fantastic as usual, her voices are distinctive, her tone is perfect for the story, sometimes serious, other times cheeky. Her performance of the emotions is spot on and made the whole story very enjoyable. 4.5 stars.
March 23, 2021
Reagan, adorable. Jill, complex and interesting. Their friends Gwen, Carly and Sam, wonderful and supportive (I wish I had such friends). The story, engaging. But Jill's confrontations with her wicked mother Maureen and with her despicable boss Harrison were very bland and weak. Too bad, because otherwise I would have rated this story higher.
March 11, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. If you’re looking for a cute casual read with not too much angst or drama then I highly recommend.
We meat Jillian, a not so nice business woman and Reagan, maybe too nice of a business woman. Reagan brings out the good in Jillian and we see a whole 180 turn in her social behavior. They make the perfect couple and though I would’ve hope for more fiery tension filled encounters between them I still loved the pairing. Five stars!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in returned for an honest review!
We meat Jillian, a not so nice business woman and Reagan, maybe too nice of a business woman. Reagan brings out the good in Jillian and we see a whole 180 turn in her social behavior. They make the perfect couple and though I would’ve hope for more fiery tension filled encounters between them I still loved the pairing. Five stars!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in returned for an honest review!
March 6, 2021
My first book by Kate Gavin and it it left me feeling warm and comfortable. The best way to describe this story is as a wearing a pair of comfy sweats and curling up on the couch with a soft blanket.
Jillian is a hard as nails and not too friendly marketing exec, at the office she is nicknamed the ogre. Not the best of nicknames and it isn’t based on looks but on behaviour. Jill goes out for lunch on a bad that at the office only to find no tables available at her favourite spot. A kind starter, Reagan, offers to share her table. She agrees but Jill is her usual grumpy self and even the unflappable Reagan is put off by her attitude, but still attracted to her. Reagan is the co-owner of a successful restaurant business, but the most important thing in her life now is spending time with her dying father. Jill mostly is just socially awkward and hides this behind a very icy and snarky mask and her emotions are stored away in vault behind a thick wall. Growing up in a household where love isn’t shared and prestige is everything will make a person be like Jill. But she doesn’t want to be this person, she just doesn’t know how tot run it off. Reagan is sweet and caring and a charmer. When the women are basically thrown together to work on Jill’s stepfathers birthday party both their feelings and resolves are put to the test.
Reagan is a character almost everyone will instantly like, but for me a character like Jill is what I like best. A tad misunderstood, hiding behind icy facade but such a marshmallow once the walls are broken, or just coming down a little. The big event happens too late in this book, you see it coming, I was even surprised it didn’t happen sooner, but when it did happen it was a real sad moment. Whit it happening so late it got resolved quickly as well, so that s a plus...
The supporting characters are very strong as well in this story and diverse! My favourite supporting character is Reagan’s mother, she has a smaller “part” but she is hilarious (unless she is your mom, than it’s embarrassing), a close second is Ash, Jill’s non-binary assistant.
This book should be read if you are looking for a good romance with a (reluctant) ice queen and a very loveable cast in general.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Jillian is a hard as nails and not too friendly marketing exec, at the office she is nicknamed the ogre. Not the best of nicknames and it isn’t based on looks but on behaviour. Jill goes out for lunch on a bad that at the office only to find no tables available at her favourite spot. A kind starter, Reagan, offers to share her table. She agrees but Jill is her usual grumpy self and even the unflappable Reagan is put off by her attitude, but still attracted to her. Reagan is the co-owner of a successful restaurant business, but the most important thing in her life now is spending time with her dying father. Jill mostly is just socially awkward and hides this behind a very icy and snarky mask and her emotions are stored away in vault behind a thick wall. Growing up in a household where love isn’t shared and prestige is everything will make a person be like Jill. But she doesn’t want to be this person, she just doesn’t know how tot run it off. Reagan is sweet and caring and a charmer. When the women are basically thrown together to work on Jill’s stepfathers birthday party both their feelings and resolves are put to the test.
Reagan is a character almost everyone will instantly like, but for me a character like Jill is what I like best. A tad misunderstood, hiding behind icy facade but such a marshmallow once the walls are broken, or just coming down a little. The big event happens too late in this book, you see it coming, I was even surprised it didn’t happen sooner, but when it did happen it was a real sad moment. Whit it happening so late it got resolved quickly as well, so that s a plus...
The supporting characters are very strong as well in this story and diverse! My favourite supporting character is Reagan’s mother, she has a smaller “part” but she is hilarious (unless she is your mom, than it’s embarrassing), a close second is Ash, Jill’s non-binary assistant.
This book should be read if you are looking for a good romance with a (reluctant) ice queen and a very loveable cast in general.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
March 26, 2021
Yeah! What a sweet read, with good chunks of emotion, hot sex, and enjoyable side characters.
MC Jill and MC Reagan had a lot of chemistry and a unique "coming together" story, if you will. Both held my interest, but Jill especially stood out. She has a lot of issues, had a complex and cold upbringing, and I applaud Ms. Gavin for creating this character in a realistic, rich way. Ice queen, sure, but her vulnerability shines through quite early on, giving us readers that hook that leads us throughout the rest of the story. It was just a full-on good read, for lack of better descriptors!
I have not yet read Kate Gavin before but I certainly will seek out other work! 4/5.
MC Jill and MC Reagan had a lot of chemistry and a unique "coming together" story, if you will. Both held my interest, but Jill especially stood out. She has a lot of issues, had a complex and cold upbringing, and I applaud Ms. Gavin for creating this character in a realistic, rich way. Ice queen, sure, but her vulnerability shines through quite early on, giving us readers that hook that leads us throughout the rest of the story. It was just a full-on good read, for lack of better descriptors!
I have not yet read Kate Gavin before but I certainly will seek out other work! 4/5.
April 1, 2021
3.5 Stars - Fun while it lasted
3.5 rounded down to 3 because I finished this a few days ago and already can't really remember much about it. I know I enjoyed the experience but I guess it did not make a lasting impression on me. I can say that is the blurb appeals to you that is totally worth your $$ and your time, just don't go into it looking for soul moving drama. :)
3.5 rounded down to 3 because I finished this a few days ago and already can't really remember much about it. I know I enjoyed the experience but I guess it did not make a lasting impression on me. I can say that is the blurb appeals to you that is totally worth your $$ and your time, just don't go into it looking for soul moving drama. :)
March 8, 2021
Jillian Jacobs was under a lot of stress when she first met up with Reagan Murphy. What she didn’t know was the stress Reagan was under.
Reagan along with her best friend Gwen has built up quite a business owing and operating restaurants around the city. Gwen was the chef of the operation, while Reagan saw to the business side of their operation. Now she’s taking a break in the everyday operations because of her desire to spend as much time as possible with her father who didn't have long to live. She wanted to also be as much help as possible to her mother who had the terrible job of watching the man she loved waste away on her. But one thing neither parent wanted for Reagan was to get out, run her business and hopefully find a woman to share her life with.
Jillian Jacobs was working herself and everyone around her trying to impress the boss. No matter what she did it never seemed like enough. Her family life consisted of a step-father she never got along with,and her mother who put herself first no matter how it affected her daughter. Now along with trying to meet another deadline for her job, her mother expected her to do the work required in planning her step-father’s birthday party.
When the two women met it didn’t go that well. Reagan offered to share her table with Jillian thinking it would be nice to have someone to talk with, but Jillian wasn’t having any of it. Bad manners were the one thing she got from her mother. She only knew of one way to talk with her staff or anyone else and that was to be demanding, rude and just plain nasty. Reagan didn’t understand her at all. Thank God they’d never have to meet again.
That’s until her mother’s call re the party. She had already picked the restaurant to cater the party. Now all Jillian had to do was all the work that entailed, including with the woman she’d just been so rude to. Reagan had no choice, she had to work with possibly the rudest woman she’d ever met.
Great characters, great story all in a fast paced book. Simply one of the best I’ve read. Very Enjoyable.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
Reagan along with her best friend Gwen has built up quite a business owing and operating restaurants around the city. Gwen was the chef of the operation, while Reagan saw to the business side of their operation. Now she’s taking a break in the everyday operations because of her desire to spend as much time as possible with her father who didn't have long to live. She wanted to also be as much help as possible to her mother who had the terrible job of watching the man she loved waste away on her. But one thing neither parent wanted for Reagan was to get out, run her business and hopefully find a woman to share her life with.
Jillian Jacobs was working herself and everyone around her trying to impress the boss. No matter what she did it never seemed like enough. Her family life consisted of a step-father she never got along with,and her mother who put herself first no matter how it affected her daughter. Now along with trying to meet another deadline for her job, her mother expected her to do the work required in planning her step-father’s birthday party.
When the two women met it didn’t go that well. Reagan offered to share her table with Jillian thinking it would be nice to have someone to talk with, but Jillian wasn’t having any of it. Bad manners were the one thing she got from her mother. She only knew of one way to talk with her staff or anyone else and that was to be demanding, rude and just plain nasty. Reagan didn’t understand her at all. Thank God they’d never have to meet again.
That’s until her mother’s call re the party. She had already picked the restaurant to cater the party. Now all Jillian had to do was all the work that entailed, including with the woman she’d just been so rude to. Reagan had no choice, she had to work with possibly the rudest woman she’d ever met.
Great characters, great story all in a fast paced book. Simply one of the best I’ve read. Very Enjoyable.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
March 13, 2021
Jillian and Reagan meet in a chance encounter over lunch. They DO NOT hit it off initially. Jillian can’t seem to accept genuine kindness and turns up her nose at Reagan. Reagan is just trying to make it through her days the best she can. They soon meet again and are forced to work together when Jillian’s mother hires Reagan’s company to cater a party. Initially, Jillian continues to treat Raegan in a brusque, better than thou manner, but overtime they get to know each other, and Jillian slowly lets her guard down. As they encounter family heartache, work struggles and uncomfortable situations they learn to prioritize each other and navigate a lasting relationship based on trust and patience.
I really enjoyed this book! This is how adult relationships are supposed to work. Neither Jillian nor Reagan are perfect, but they form a bond through trust, communication, mutual admiration and understanding. It’s a breath of fresh air to just watch something come together so seamlessly. Cheers to Kate Gavin. Well done.
I really enjoyed this book! This is how adult relationships are supposed to work. Neither Jillian nor Reagan are perfect, but they form a bond through trust, communication, mutual admiration and understanding. It’s a breath of fresh air to just watch something come together so seamlessly. Cheers to Kate Gavin. Well done.
February 5, 2022
4.25 stars
When I started listening to this, I thought that Jillian Jacobs was not only one of the iciest ice queens ever, she was also one of the most unlikable. I mean, REALLY. And I wondered how the heck the author was going to explain that level of horribleness and get the readers to root for her. She succeeds, but it takes a bit to get there. In the end, it was worth the wait.
There's a lot going on in this book. Reagan Murphy is going through quite a bit. Her father is in the final stages of cancer and her best friend and business partner has been taking the reins of their successful restaurant business so Reagan can be by his side as much as possible. Reagan meets Jill quite by accident while taking a break at a busy restaurant to catch her breath, while Jill tries to do the same during an extremely frustrating work day. But there's just one table left. Reagan offers to share and Jill reluctantly agrees - and then proceeds to be rude as hell to her.
Both were happy to say their goodbyes, but as it happens, their paths are brought together again when Jill's mother ropes her into planning a dinner for her stepfather - who she detests. Jill's uber picky mother chose Reagan's restaurant business to cater the event and insists on Jill handling all the details personally.
Jill continues to be, well, JILL during many of their interactions and she continues to frustrate Reagan - even if she is one of the most attractive women Reagan has ever met. Jill can't help but notice how appealing Reagan is either - even though she continues to behave in an absolutely atrocious manner.
The story then becomes how they get to know one another and we learn what makes Jill who and what she is. Without spoiling anything, I loved Reagan's backbone and her unwillingness to just accept Jill's behavior - as much as she was drawn to her. I also appreciated how well the author peeled away at Jill's layers and how she grew Jill's character throughout the story. It was going to take a lot to convince me that she would be a good match for Reagan, the way she behaved. But there's always more to anyone's story and this was a good one.
Anastasia Watley narrates and while she doesn't quite have great distinction in her character's voices, she has such a wonderful, laid back tone that just oozes smooth sensuality. I love listening to her.
I finished this audiobook this morning and am still thinking about it, so it definitely had an impact. This was my first Kate Gavin book and I look forward to experiencing more of her work in the future.
When I started listening to this, I thought that Jillian Jacobs was not only one of the iciest ice queens ever, she was also one of the most unlikable. I mean, REALLY. And I wondered how the heck the author was going to explain that level of horribleness and get the readers to root for her. She succeeds, but it takes a bit to get there. In the end, it was worth the wait.
There's a lot going on in this book. Reagan Murphy is going through quite a bit. Her father is in the final stages of cancer and her best friend and business partner has been taking the reins of their successful restaurant business so Reagan can be by his side as much as possible. Reagan meets Jill quite by accident while taking a break at a busy restaurant to catch her breath, while Jill tries to do the same during an extremely frustrating work day. But there's just one table left. Reagan offers to share and Jill reluctantly agrees - and then proceeds to be rude as hell to her.
Both were happy to say their goodbyes, but as it happens, their paths are brought together again when Jill's mother ropes her into planning a dinner for her stepfather - who she detests. Jill's uber picky mother chose Reagan's restaurant business to cater the event and insists on Jill handling all the details personally.
Jill continues to be, well, JILL during many of their interactions and she continues to frustrate Reagan - even if she is one of the most attractive women Reagan has ever met. Jill can't help but notice how appealing Reagan is either - even though she continues to behave in an absolutely atrocious manner.
The story then becomes how they get to know one another and we learn what makes Jill who and what she is. Without spoiling anything, I loved Reagan's backbone and her unwillingness to just accept Jill's behavior - as much as she was drawn to her. I also appreciated how well the author peeled away at Jill's layers and how she grew Jill's character throughout the story. It was going to take a lot to convince me that she would be a good match for Reagan, the way she behaved. But there's always more to anyone's story and this was a good one.
Anastasia Watley narrates and while she doesn't quite have great distinction in her character's voices, she has such a wonderful, laid back tone that just oozes smooth sensuality. I love listening to her.
I finished this audiobook this morning and am still thinking about it, so it definitely had an impact. This was my first Kate Gavin book and I look forward to experiencing more of her work in the future.
March 15, 2022
This was a big miss for me. There are a lot of reasons I can go into as to why I did not connect with it, but the main reason was that the author spent time expanding on certain descriptions and topics and not others. In one scene we might learn that the place where takeout was ordered was so generous with dish sizes that the MC's shared a single dish but in another scene one of the MC's comments about running late for an appointment with no mention of access to a clock. This made it incredibly difficult to understand where the characters were and what they were doing. I felt like I constantly had to fill in unnecessary gaps.
Taking this a step further, we are introduced to some intense backstory makeup for both the MC's and it just fell a little...flat. I was excited to watch a true ice queen, but felt like we missed out on the internal monologue that would make a person growing up with people who were emotionally unavailable unique. One of the MC's is dealing with a parent's inevitable passing and instead of describing those intense emotions, we get told that the pain and frustration of this scenario was eased by having a connection with a partner.
Not something I would recommend if you have personal experience with preparing to lose a parent or the emotional unavailability of immediate family since the depth into both scenarios is a little more surface level. I think if you are looking for a romance first and foremost, with the backstories used more as a way to fill out the characters but not as the driving motivation for character reactions you will probably really enjoy this novel.
Taking this a step further, we are introduced to some intense backstory makeup for both the MC's and it just fell a little...flat. I was excited to watch a true ice queen, but felt like we missed out on the internal monologue that would make a person growing up with people who were emotionally unavailable unique. One of the MC's is dealing with a parent's inevitable passing and instead of describing those intense emotions, we get told that the pain and frustration of this scenario was eased by having a connection with a partner.
Not something I would recommend if you have personal experience with preparing to lose a parent or the emotional unavailability of immediate family since the depth into both scenarios is a little more surface level. I think if you are looking for a romance first and foremost, with the backstories used more as a way to fill out the characters but not as the driving motivation for character reactions you will probably really enjoy this novel.
May 23, 2021
Did you ever have that moment where you read a book and you really enjoyed it but when you finished you dont know what to write for the review? But you just knew that you enjoyed it. I am in that moment right now and have been in alots recently. So I'll try my best to say what I don't know what to say.
**Spoiler Alert**
All in all, i do enjoy this book.
4.25
**Spoiler Alert**
All in all, i do enjoy this book.
4.25
May 12, 2021
I have never read anything from Kate Gavin before, but she has shot up my must-watch list. I loved this book and all the fantastic tropes that the author packed in. I loved the storyline and how the author built the relationship between the main characters Jill and Regan.
I adored Regan and her wonderful kind heart. She was one hundred per cent the hero of the story, and she deserved all the good things. Reagan’s relationship with her family was lovely and heartbreaking at the same time. What was truly beautiful was when Jill (practically a stranger) would be there for her and give her strength. You need to read it to know what I mean here, but it is absolutely worth it!
My favourite character has to be Jill. She is so lovely and misunderstood, and my heart broke for her more than a little every time she made a relationship faux pas and then scrambled adorably to fix it. She needed someone like Regan to come along and take her by the hand to show Jill her worth. Because she was so worthy of love and I was so invested in these beautiful women getting their happily ever after.
The epilogue was just beyond, and I cried my heart out with all the lovely sentiments drawing back to the idea of family and love.
This book is one hundred per cent written as a solo read, however, and this is big; Kate Gavin has set this story up beautifully that it could easily be the start of a fantastic series. For example, the readers are left wondering about Carly and her adventure into dating. And then there is Sam and Ash, who I am craving more from their story. The way Kate Gavin writes, she could have an award-winning series here at her fingertips. I really hope she takes the gamble and writes more from the ‘Table for Two’ universe.
You can feel the tension between these two from the beginning. Even when they were infuriated with each other, they still had this sexy tension that readers like me, love. When they start to flirt and let go a little bit, their simmering chemistry explodes, and you can feel it radiating from the page.
I want to mention that yes, Reagan and Jess have beautiful and sexy chemistry but what I loved more was the supportive and intimate relationship they had with each other without the sex. The moments where the romance just flowed, and they would hold hands, touch or snuggle. The connection at these times made my heart swell.
I adored every minute and every page of this book. I wouldn’t change a thing, and I really hope that Kate Gavin uses her wonderful secondary characters in future novels. She has jumped on my must-watch list. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
I adored Regan and her wonderful kind heart. She was one hundred per cent the hero of the story, and she deserved all the good things. Reagan’s relationship with her family was lovely and heartbreaking at the same time. What was truly beautiful was when Jill (practically a stranger) would be there for her and give her strength. You need to read it to know what I mean here, but it is absolutely worth it!
My favourite character has to be Jill. She is so lovely and misunderstood, and my heart broke for her more than a little every time she made a relationship faux pas and then scrambled adorably to fix it. She needed someone like Regan to come along and take her by the hand to show Jill her worth. Because she was so worthy of love and I was so invested in these beautiful women getting their happily ever after.
The epilogue was just beyond, and I cried my heart out with all the lovely sentiments drawing back to the idea of family and love.
This book is one hundred per cent written as a solo read, however, and this is big; Kate Gavin has set this story up beautifully that it could easily be the start of a fantastic series. For example, the readers are left wondering about Carly and her adventure into dating. And then there is Sam and Ash, who I am craving more from their story. The way Kate Gavin writes, she could have an award-winning series here at her fingertips. I really hope she takes the gamble and writes more from the ‘Table for Two’ universe.
You can feel the tension between these two from the beginning. Even when they were infuriated with each other, they still had this sexy tension that readers like me, love. When they start to flirt and let go a little bit, their simmering chemistry explodes, and you can feel it radiating from the page.
I want to mention that yes, Reagan and Jess have beautiful and sexy chemistry but what I loved more was the supportive and intimate relationship they had with each other without the sex. The moments where the romance just flowed, and they would hold hands, touch or snuggle. The connection at these times made my heart swell.
I adored every minute and every page of this book. I wouldn’t change a thing, and I really hope that Kate Gavin uses her wonderful secondary characters in future novels. She has jumped on my must-watch list. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
October 11, 2024
It was fine and my reading experience was enjoyable but I just didn’t get as invested in the characters as I needed to be to truly love this book.
Although we did see the ice queen melt and see the two women grow closer, at the stage or the relationship in which the book ends the story I’m just not totally convinced they’ll be together forever and that’s what I want to feel at the end of a romance! If we had gotten a bit more time I might have felt differently..
Individually I thought the characters had potential, I enjoyed the writing and the narrator who did the audiobook (Anastasia Watley) was also good.
Definitely a readable romance, if the premise intrigues you then go for it! I’ll be reading another one of Kate Gavins books to get more of a feel for her :)
Although we did see the ice queen melt and see the two women grow closer, at the stage or the relationship in which the book ends the story I’m just not totally convinced they’ll be together forever and that’s what I want to feel at the end of a romance! If we had gotten a bit more time I might have felt differently..
Individually I thought the characters had potential, I enjoyed the writing and the narrator who did the audiobook (Anastasia Watley) was also good.
Definitely a readable romance, if the premise intrigues you then go for it! I’ll be reading another one of Kate Gavins books to get more of a feel for her :)
January 17, 2022
Wonderful narration by Watley. Solid romance.
January 23, 2022
An angsty read made better thanks to the amazing Anastasia Watley. Reagan succeeds in warming Jillian's cold, cold heart. Liked both mains. A solid romance.
March 26, 2022
I'm rating this 3.5 as it dazzled me in some areas but fell flat in other areas.
The first portion of this story was emotional as we watched protag Reagan say goodbye to her father. We also meet Jill, the other MC, and learn how she was the Queen B of all Ice Queens. Yikes. However, not once did I hate her. I don't care for those kinds of women, but she had a different air about her. She was never snobby, just demanding. I never felt like she felt better than anyone, contrary to how her upbringing was and how her parents felt about everyone else. After learning about Jill's family, we understand why she came off as cold with a wall protecting her heart.
This was a typical opposites attract, whereas Jill was ice, Reagan was a cozy fire. There were many mushy, warm moments between both women as they got to know one another, and I felt like this story was more about peeling back Jill's layers over Reagan's. As each layer was pulled, a more loving human being was revealed and we could actually start to like Jill. She progressed the more she fell for Reagan, but of course, there was that downfall moment where someone screws up and everyone goes running to their own corners, cowering and assuming. And of course, there was the redeeming moment after the proverbial lightbulb switches on and everyone finally accepts what happened and apologizes. I'm assuming it was supposed to be dramatic, and maybe I read too much, but I saw it coming and all I could do was sigh and turn the page.
This was a cute story, but I wanted more descriptive details regarding the main characters. I honestly can't remember what either of them looked like. I got more of a description for Ash, the nonbinary assistant to Jill. At least I could see what they looked like. I also can't tag this a butch/femme as I've seen some reviewers doing, because neither women to me came off as either.
Not bad
The first portion of this story was emotional as we watched protag Reagan say goodbye to her father. We also meet Jill, the other MC, and learn how she was the Queen B of all Ice Queens. Yikes. However, not once did I hate her. I don't care for those kinds of women, but she had a different air about her. She was never snobby, just demanding. I never felt like she felt better than anyone, contrary to how her upbringing was and how her parents felt about everyone else. After learning about Jill's family, we understand why she came off as cold with a wall protecting her heart.
This was a typical opposites attract, whereas Jill was ice, Reagan was a cozy fire. There were many mushy, warm moments between both women as they got to know one another, and I felt like this story was more about peeling back Jill's layers over Reagan's. As each layer was pulled, a more loving human being was revealed and we could actually start to like Jill. She progressed the more she fell for Reagan, but of course, there was that downfall moment where someone screws up and everyone goes running to their own corners, cowering and assuming. And of course, there was the redeeming moment after the proverbial lightbulb switches on and everyone finally accepts what happened and apologizes. I'm assuming it was supposed to be dramatic, and maybe I read too much, but I saw it coming and all I could do was sigh and turn the page.
This was a cute story, but I wanted more descriptive details regarding the main characters. I honestly can't remember what either of them looked like. I got more of a description for Ash, the nonbinary assistant to Jill. At least I could see what they looked like. I also can't tag this a butch/femme as I've seen some reviewers doing, because neither women to me came off as either.
Not bad
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