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JUST LIKE IN THE MOVIES
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Ruby Graham’s verdict: I want to live in Oz, where danger is defeated by friendship, your dreams are always in glowing Technicolor and you can get a pair of absolutely gorgeous ruby slippers simply by landing a house on a hag!
Luke Devlin’s verdict: Flying monkeys? Seriously?
The late Matty Devlin was so much more than Ruby Graham’s boss. He was her best friend, her father-figure, and she is showcasing a series of his favourite classic movies at the independent cinema in Notting Hill which was his life’s work … and of which she is now part owner.
Matty left the other half of The Royale to his nephew, Luke,the elusive Manhattan property developer and rumoured son of a Hollywood icon.
It’s all beginning to sound like the plot of one of Ruby’s beloved films until it becomes clear Luke is no more interested in swooping in to save the crumbling Royale than he is in talking about his famous father. He’s bad-tempered, cynical, and he couldn’t care less about the cinema!
But saving The Royale is about far more than just Matty’s legacy. The Royale is the only place where Ruby gets to live in a world of dreams and happy endings, a place where there are no lost causes, and where falling in love is just like in the movies … or is Luke about to change all that?
‘A sizzling summer read! Sunday Times bestseller Sarah Morgan
Readers LOVE Just Like In The Movies:
‘Such a fabulous story… It seems especially relevant in the current climate to read something so emotionally engaging and satisfying’ Susan
‘The characters are where Heidi Rice shines, every one of them is a unique and eclectic combination of traits…deserves to be read and loved by many’ Laura
‘Perfect beach read…Loved it’ Zoe
‘So entertaining…A romance full of Hollywood nostalgia’ Abby
Ruby Graham’s verdict: I want to live in Oz, where danger is defeated by friendship, your dreams are always in glowing Technicolor and you can get a pair of absolutely gorgeous ruby slippers simply by landing a house on a hag!
Luke Devlin’s verdict: Flying monkeys? Seriously?
The late Matty Devlin was so much more than Ruby Graham’s boss. He was her best friend, her father-figure, and she is showcasing a series of his favourite classic movies at the independent cinema in Notting Hill which was his life’s work … and of which she is now part owner.
Matty left the other half of The Royale to his nephew, Luke,the elusive Manhattan property developer and rumoured son of a Hollywood icon.
It’s all beginning to sound like the plot of one of Ruby’s beloved films until it becomes clear Luke is no more interested in swooping in to save the crumbling Royale than he is in talking about his famous father. He’s bad-tempered, cynical, and he couldn’t care less about the cinema!
But saving The Royale is about far more than just Matty’s legacy. The Royale is the only place where Ruby gets to live in a world of dreams and happy endings, a place where there are no lost causes, and where falling in love is just like in the movies … or is Luke about to change all that?
‘A sizzling summer read! Sunday Times bestseller Sarah Morgan
Readers LOVE Just Like In The Movies:
‘Such a fabulous story… It seems especially relevant in the current climate to read something so emotionally engaging and satisfying’ Susan
‘The characters are where Heidi Rice shines, every one of them is a unique and eclectic combination of traits…deserves to be read and loved by many’ Laura
‘Perfect beach read…Loved it’ Zoe
‘So entertaining…A romance full of Hollywood nostalgia’ Abby
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 12, 2021
14 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Rice
602 books412 followersMy name's Heidi Rice, I'm a USA Today Bestselling author. I'm married with two sons (which gives me rather too much of an insight into the male psyche!).
I love my job because it involves sitting down at my computer and getting swept up in a world of high emotions, sensual excitement, funny feisty women, sexy tortured men and glamourous locations where laundry doesn't exist ...
I also tutor a 14-week in-depth online Write a Romance Novel course. So, if you have ever wanted to learn how to write romance from a bestselling author, check it out here: www.profwritingacademy.com/course/wri...
Now I believe wholeheartedly that readers should give honest and open reviews on Goodreads and Amazon and elsewhere. If you didn't like a book you are entitled to say so (even if it's mine! ouch). But you may notice that none of my book reviews are less than four-stars. That's simply because as an author myself I know how pathetically sensitive I am about bad reviews and with that in mind I prefer to spread the love among other authors — and don't do public reviews of books I didn't like. Just thought I'd clarify that!
You can find out about my latest releases and all my other books at www.heidi-rice.com
I love my job because it involves sitting down at my computer and getting swept up in a world of high emotions, sensual excitement, funny feisty women, sexy tortured men and glamourous locations where laundry doesn't exist ...
I also tutor a 14-week in-depth online Write a Romance Novel course. So, if you have ever wanted to learn how to write romance from a bestselling author, check it out here: www.profwritingacademy.com/course/wri...
Now I believe wholeheartedly that readers should give honest and open reviews on Goodreads and Amazon and elsewhere. If you didn't like a book you are entitled to say so (even if it's mine! ouch). But you may notice that none of my book reviews are less than four-stars. That's simply because as an author myself I know how pathetically sensitive I am about bad reviews and with that in mind I prefer to spread the love among other authors — and don't do public reviews of books I didn't like. Just thought I'd clarify that!
You can find out about my latest releases and all my other books at www.heidi-rice.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
March 15, 2021
ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an open and honest review.
Contemporary Romance : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publishing Date March 12th 2021
Just Like in the Movies was everything I could have wanted. Our two leads were the perfect sunshine heroine and brooding hero. Having both their perspectives is probably what made the story for me, making them both more likable and 'real'. The movie references and inclusions throughout the book was a cute touch and I liked that it made the theatre feel more like it's own intended character rather than an after thought. Sadly I found that at times the story dragged but overall this was a solid read that was very well executed.
Contemporary Romance : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publishing Date March 12th 2021
Just Like in the Movies was everything I could have wanted. Our two leads were the perfect sunshine heroine and brooding hero. Having both their perspectives is probably what made the story for me, making them both more likable and 'real'. The movie references and inclusions throughout the book was a cute touch and I liked that it made the theatre feel more like it's own intended character rather than an after thought. Sadly I found that at times the story dragged but overall this was a solid read that was very well executed.
January 17, 2021
A book for all film lovers. For those not into celluloid, maybe not. But I found this tale about grief, movies, friendship, and finding a place where dreams come true engrossing. Yes, it’s a bit draggy at times, but the cinema conversations between Ruby and Luke, co-owners of THE ROYALE, made up for pace. Great filmic fun!
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 12 Mar 2021
#JustLikeInTheMovies #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 12 Mar 2021
#JustLikeInTheMovies #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
May 18, 2021
Love movies? Love hot sexy scintillating romance? Then this book has it all. Gorgeous, kind and empathic, Ruby Graham is running a stunning and beloved period Indie cinema in Notting Hill when the owner, her best friend, Matty, dies. Devastated and distraught, she's shocked to discover Matty has left half of the cinema to her, and the other half to his estranged nephew, Luke Devlin.
Well, actually, they've never even met, because of a long-ago falling out between his uncle and his mother, who happens to be one of the world's most beautiful and iconic actresses.
Luke Devlin is gorgeous and brooding, an elusive millionaire Manhattan property developer with a chip on his shoulder a mile wide. The fact that he looks exactly like his 'alleged' deceased movie star father, Rafael Falcone, doesn't help him to fade into the background much.
Luke and Ruby are forced together to come up with a plan for the cinema and when it transpires that it's heavily in debt, Luke is ready to wash his hands of the project and walk away. Unless Ruby can convince him to think again...
With each chapter heading relating to different movies that Ruby and the community adores - from the Wizard of Oz to The Last of the Mohicans, Luke and Ruby slowly but surely break down the barriers between them while at the same time the temperature goes up. He can't resist her sexy lush curves or her open and sunny nature. And she can't resist his chiselled cheekbones and even more chiselled abs. And buns. Did I mention cheekbones?
This is a lush and swoon-worthy romance, full of great characters, set in the bustling hipness of one of London's most beautiful neighbourhoods, filled with Heidi Rice's trademark razor-sharp wit and seriously sexy love scenes. One to savour.
Well, actually, they've never even met, because of a long-ago falling out between his uncle and his mother, who happens to be one of the world's most beautiful and iconic actresses.
Luke Devlin is gorgeous and brooding, an elusive millionaire Manhattan property developer with a chip on his shoulder a mile wide. The fact that he looks exactly like his 'alleged' deceased movie star father, Rafael Falcone, doesn't help him to fade into the background much.
Luke and Ruby are forced together to come up with a plan for the cinema and when it transpires that it's heavily in debt, Luke is ready to wash his hands of the project and walk away. Unless Ruby can convince him to think again...
With each chapter heading relating to different movies that Ruby and the community adores - from the Wizard of Oz to The Last of the Mohicans, Luke and Ruby slowly but surely break down the barriers between them while at the same time the temperature goes up. He can't resist her sexy lush curves or her open and sunny nature. And she can't resist his chiselled cheekbones and even more chiselled abs. And buns. Did I mention cheekbones?
This is a lush and swoon-worthy romance, full of great characters, set in the bustling hipness of one of London's most beautiful neighbourhoods, filled with Heidi Rice's trademark razor-sharp wit and seriously sexy love scenes. One to savour.
March 13, 2021
This was a cute romcom book! If you are a movie buff, you will love all of the references in here.
The hate to love romance between Ruby and Luke was perfectly built for me. The tension was there, and the interactions they had were genuine and playful. There was also a sense of trust that was built early between them that I think helped make their bond seem more realistic and adorable.
The characters were lovable, and experienced growth, which always makes me happy to see more depth in a novel. The plot was solid, and the writing was delightful. I really enjoyed it!
Thank you so much to @netgalley and @harpercollinsuk and @onemorechapterhc for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The hate to love romance between Ruby and Luke was perfectly built for me. The tension was there, and the interactions they had were genuine and playful. There was also a sense of trust that was built early between them that I think helped make their bond seem more realistic and adorable.
The characters were lovable, and experienced growth, which always makes me happy to see more depth in a novel. The plot was solid, and the writing was delightful. I really enjoyed it!
Thank you so much to @netgalley and @harpercollinsuk and @onemorechapterhc for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 15, 2021
I like movies, especially older ones, almost as much as Ruby does. Thus I could relate to her instantly. I also liked the fact that Luke isn't the typical bad boy who has his eyes set only on the money and needs to be convinced that people are also valuable. He already has his heart in the right place, but he is also pragmatic and realistic (something I can relate to as well).
So this story started out as a very nice chick-lit with a movie-twist, but suddenly turned into a New Adult novel. This somehow didn't fit with the rest of the story, and the demeanour of Ruby and Luke also didn't feel coherent then. But the biggest astonishment: no reference to "Out of Africa" when he is washing her hair! WTF! How could Heidi Rice miss that perfect opportunity?! She could have turned this scene into something really really sweet, but instead makes a cringe-worthy moment out of it.
That being said, I still liked Ruby and Luke, although their love story is not exactly 'like in the movies' (and even though I had a really hard time to understand Rubys stubbornness in the end).
So this story started out as a very nice chick-lit with a movie-twist, but suddenly turned into a New Adult novel. This somehow didn't fit with the rest of the story, and the demeanour of Ruby and Luke also didn't feel coherent then. But the biggest astonishment: no reference to "Out of Africa" when he is washing her hair! WTF! How could Heidi Rice miss that perfect opportunity?! She could have turned this scene into something really really sweet, but instead makes a cringe-worthy moment out of it.
That being said, I still liked Ruby and Luke, although their love story is not exactly 'like in the movies' (and even though I had a really hard time to understand Rubys stubbornness in the end).
March 17, 2021
Ruby and Luke meet when Matty's will is read. Matty was Ruby's best friend and Luke's estranged uncle. Just like that, they find themselves co-owners of a local movie theatre known as The Royale. They are definitely opposites. Ruby is bubbly, loves movies, people and is dedicated to preserving The Royale. Luke is reserved, not as enthusiastic about old movies and is realistic about the money that needs to be spent to bring back The Royale. Ruby hopes to help Luke fall in love with The Royale and want to continue his uncle's legacy. Luke wants to find a way to make Ruby aware of how much money and work it will take to update The Royale. They are on complete opposite ends of the spectrum with their expectations. Yet, somehow, Luke worries about Ruby. Ruby finds herself caring about Luke's opinion. One thing leads to another and these two fall into each other's arms. However, they still don't acknowledge their feelings. They treat their relationship almost as a "friends with benefits" arrangement since Luke plans to leave and return to the States soon. Of course, feelings will sneak in whether you want them to or not. Then what will Ruby and Luke do? Will they get their happy ending?
This was a sweet romance with a fair amount of steamy scenes. The movie references are plentiful, which was a cute way to tie the theme of the book to the theatre. Overall, this was an enjoyable book that had some serious content blended in with the lighthearted.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.
This was a sweet romance with a fair amount of steamy scenes. The movie references are plentiful, which was a cute way to tie the theme of the book to the theatre. Overall, this was an enjoyable book that had some serious content blended in with the lighthearted.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.
February 16, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.75 stars
I Loved how easy to read this book was, finding it very cute and enjoyable even if the pace did feel slightly slow at times. The movie references were a great addition, and I think any movie lover would appreciate this book.
I was disappointed with the lack of Rubys backstory, as whilst there was a lot learnt about Luke, not much was mentioned of her past. This showed in the characters, where it definitely felt as though Lukes character held more depth.
It felt as though the relationship between Luke and Ruby could’ve done with more of a build up, but I loved how the switching POV’s between the characters did enable you to see what both sides of the couple were thinking as their relationship progressed.
Maybe I'm just a sucker for the grumpy x sunshine trope, but overall I definitely found this an enjoyable contemporary romance!
Rating: 3.75 stars
I Loved how easy to read this book was, finding it very cute and enjoyable even if the pace did feel slightly slow at times. The movie references were a great addition, and I think any movie lover would appreciate this book.
I was disappointed with the lack of Rubys backstory, as whilst there was a lot learnt about Luke, not much was mentioned of her past. This showed in the characters, where it definitely felt as though Lukes character held more depth.
It felt as though the relationship between Luke and Ruby could’ve done with more of a build up, but I loved how the switching POV’s between the characters did enable you to see what both sides of the couple were thinking as their relationship progressed.
Maybe I'm just a sucker for the grumpy x sunshine trope, but overall I definitely found this an enjoyable contemporary romance!
April 4, 2021
This rom com featuring many movie references, would be perfect for the big screen itself, or at least some sort of Hallmark movie!
It gave me warm fuzzy feelings towards the end, rather sexy ones at key points and I loved the all the movie references and the whole feel of the Notting Hill cinema that is at the heart of the story.
For this cinema is a hub of the community and I loved the drag bar next door too. And Ruby is just one plucky character, trying to come to terms with her beloved Marty's lost and the fact that she has inherited half the cinema, along with the nephew that he had never met Luke Devlin.
But Luke has grown up around the movie industry and is not a fan and certainly doesn't want anything to do with the cinema, nor does he really do emotions or feelings but yet somehow Ruby even on the first couple of meetings has affected him even if he won't quite admit it.
There is a lot of family emotion to sort out from Luke over the course of the book and we discover why Marty fell out with his sister 30 years ago.
I just really enjoyed everything about the book, it does exactly what it says in the title, and is another entertaining story from Heidi Rice. Light hearted fun for a sunny escapist afternoon!
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It gave me warm fuzzy feelings towards the end, rather sexy ones at key points and I loved the all the movie references and the whole feel of the Notting Hill cinema that is at the heart of the story.
For this cinema is a hub of the community and I loved the drag bar next door too. And Ruby is just one plucky character, trying to come to terms with her beloved Marty's lost and the fact that she has inherited half the cinema, along with the nephew that he had never met Luke Devlin.
But Luke has grown up around the movie industry and is not a fan and certainly doesn't want anything to do with the cinema, nor does he really do emotions or feelings but yet somehow Ruby even on the first couple of meetings has affected him even if he won't quite admit it.
There is a lot of family emotion to sort out from Luke over the course of the book and we discover why Marty fell out with his sister 30 years ago.
I just really enjoyed everything about the book, it does exactly what it says in the title, and is another entertaining story from Heidi Rice. Light hearted fun for a sunny escapist afternoon!
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 28, 2021
*special thanks to One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!
3.5 stars
Who doesn’t love a hate to love romance?!
This was really fun! I liked the inclusion of movies throughout, even the ones I haven’t seen.
I always appreciate when we get both characters’ perspectives in a romance.
It took me awhile to warm up to Luke, but I did get there eventually.
It dragged at parts, and could’ve done with some tightening up, but overall, it was very cute!
The premise isn’t wildly original, but the execution was well done and I enjoyed myself!
3.5 stars
Who doesn’t love a hate to love romance?!
This was really fun! I liked the inclusion of movies throughout, even the ones I haven’t seen.
I always appreciate when we get both characters’ perspectives in a romance.
It took me awhile to warm up to Luke, but I did get there eventually.
It dragged at parts, and could’ve done with some tightening up, but overall, it was very cute!
The premise isn’t wildly original, but the execution was well done and I enjoyed myself!
February 4, 2021
[Thanks Netgalley for the ebook. This review is my honest opinion but just another opinion, you should read this book and judge it by yourself]
2,5 estrellitas
Otro chasquito colorinchi. Como todas, tiene un buen planteamiento y un desarrollo, mñe. Lo mejor del libro es que tiene poco conflicto y de verdad que agradezco una relación de pareja con poco drama entre ellos, pero es que tiene tan poca sustancia todo... La gracia de todo, que se supone que son las referencias cinéfilas, están muy forzadas y metidas con calzador.
Los protagonistas son clichés con patas. Él me ha gustado algo más, es el personaje que más evoluciona. Comienza siendo un poco estirado y acaba menos estirado y con un trocito de nuestro cariño. Ella no tiene remedio y es un personaje inconsistente por todos lados (para repetirse hasta la saciedad que es una mujer fuerte que no llora he perdido la cuenta de la cantidad de veces que lo hace).
No es un bodrio y no se lee mal, alguna escenita hot bien lograda hay pero es un libro al que le falta una vuelta y que a mí no me ha convencido.
2,5 estrellitas
Otro chasquito colorinchi. Como todas, tiene un buen planteamiento y un desarrollo, mñe. Lo mejor del libro es que tiene poco conflicto y de verdad que agradezco una relación de pareja con poco drama entre ellos, pero es que tiene tan poca sustancia todo... La gracia de todo, que se supone que son las referencias cinéfilas, están muy forzadas y metidas con calzador.
Los protagonistas son clichés con patas. Él me ha gustado algo más, es el personaje que más evoluciona. Comienza siendo un poco estirado y acaba menos estirado y con un trocito de nuestro cariño. Ella no tiene remedio y es un personaje inconsistente por todos lados (para repetirse hasta la saciedad que es una mujer fuerte que no llora he perdido la cuenta de la cantidad de veces que lo hace).
No es un bodrio y no se lee mal, alguna escenita hot bien lograda hay pero es un libro al que le falta una vuelta y que a mí no me ha convencido.
January 17, 2021
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the author in return for an honest review.
This is such a fabulous story, with engaging characters, an intriguing premise and is beautifully executed. I absolutely loved it. It seems especially relevant in the current climate to read something so emotionally engaging and satisfying.
Ruby is a Londoner and has spent her working life helping her mentor and substitute father Matty , run a cinema in Notting Hill. When he dies, she discovers that he has left her half the cinema, massive debt and several other secrets which are revealed throughout the story. Her co-heir turns out to be Luke, the son of Matty’s estranged sister, an actress.
A cast of characters who come to life as the story develops is matched with a fabulous plot line which sees the development of a fabulous relationship between Ruby and Luke as well as the exploration of the secrets which lie behind Luke’s angst and Ruby’s fears.
An extra joy are the film references which mirror important developments in the story. The author’s love of films really comes across and I wondered if she’s modelled The Royale on a real cinema?
This book was long enough for the writer to spend time fleshing out her characters and deepening the scene setting to allow the story to develop so satisfyingly. Great dialogue, fabulous prose and beautifully steamy love scenes. I totally loved this book. 5 stars.
This is such a fabulous story, with engaging characters, an intriguing premise and is beautifully executed. I absolutely loved it. It seems especially relevant in the current climate to read something so emotionally engaging and satisfying.
Ruby is a Londoner and has spent her working life helping her mentor and substitute father Matty , run a cinema in Notting Hill. When he dies, she discovers that he has left her half the cinema, massive debt and several other secrets which are revealed throughout the story. Her co-heir turns out to be Luke, the son of Matty’s estranged sister, an actress.
A cast of characters who come to life as the story develops is matched with a fabulous plot line which sees the development of a fabulous relationship between Ruby and Luke as well as the exploration of the secrets which lie behind Luke’s angst and Ruby’s fears.
An extra joy are the film references which mirror important developments in the story. The author’s love of films really comes across and I wondered if she’s modelled The Royale on a real cinema?
This book was long enough for the writer to spend time fleshing out her characters and deepening the scene setting to allow the story to develop so satisfyingly. Great dialogue, fabulous prose and beautifully steamy love scenes. I totally loved this book. 5 stars.
January 28, 2021
Honestly, my e-reader is getting me through January. Thank you to @netgalley for an e-ARC of Just Like In The Movies by Heidi Rice!
Synopsis: Ruby Graham just lost her best friend in the world — who also happened to bequeath her a half share of the movie theatre they ran together. The other half was left to his real estate developer nephew, Luke Devlin, who couldn’t care less about movies if he tried. So when the theatre turns out to be in massive debt, will Ruby be able to convince Luke to step in and help, or will her safe-haven come tumbling down around her?
It’s a plot worthy of a Hallmark movie and I was totally on board at the beginning. Ruby, while overly optimistic and constantly at an emotional threshold, has gumption, and Luke, for all his grumpiness, obviously has a soft heart. So they’re quite lovable and they have some steamy sex scenes between them.
BUT the writing. Or editing. Or something went wrong between conception and execution. It was a slog to get though this book, even though it should have been easy. There were scenes that just felt like the same pieces of thought were just being repeated over and over for no reason other than to take up page length, or where characters seemed to make two entirely different decisions about their lives back-to-back. Ultimately, I felt that the writing was poor, and it held the book back from its full potential.
I also felt like the character development was lopsided with a lot of attention and care being given to Luke’s backstory (TW: suicide, death, sexual assault/sexual encounter seen by a minor) but Ruby’s equally fraught background was only alluded to and never resolved or confronted.
For me, this was, at best, a library read. Maybe since this was an ARC, there’s more editing to come, which I think would seriously help. The plot and characters have promise, especially if you’re a huge movie buff, but it just didn’t work as I wanted.
Synopsis: Ruby Graham just lost her best friend in the world — who also happened to bequeath her a half share of the movie theatre they ran together. The other half was left to his real estate developer nephew, Luke Devlin, who couldn’t care less about movies if he tried. So when the theatre turns out to be in massive debt, will Ruby be able to convince Luke to step in and help, or will her safe-haven come tumbling down around her?
It’s a plot worthy of a Hallmark movie and I was totally on board at the beginning. Ruby, while overly optimistic and constantly at an emotional threshold, has gumption, and Luke, for all his grumpiness, obviously has a soft heart. So they’re quite lovable and they have some steamy sex scenes between them.
BUT the writing. Or editing. Or something went wrong between conception and execution. It was a slog to get though this book, even though it should have been easy. There were scenes that just felt like the same pieces of thought were just being repeated over and over for no reason other than to take up page length, or where characters seemed to make two entirely different decisions about their lives back-to-back. Ultimately, I felt that the writing was poor, and it held the book back from its full potential.
I also felt like the character development was lopsided with a lot of attention and care being given to Luke’s backstory (TW: suicide, death, sexual assault/sexual encounter seen by a minor) but Ruby’s equally fraught background was only alluded to and never resolved or confronted.
For me, this was, at best, a library read. Maybe since this was an ARC, there’s more editing to come, which I think would seriously help. The plot and characters have promise, especially if you’re a huge movie buff, but it just didn’t work as I wanted.
March 13, 2024
3.5 stars
A romance book about films just sounded perfect, and Just Like in the Movies was exactly what I needed! I loved the premise of trying to save a beloved independent cinema in London, and a romance forming around a classic movies season, as it interweaves two of my favourite things, and I thought it was done really well. I do always worry a bit with romances set in London in particular that landmarks and neighbourhoods are going to be referenced incessantly to appeal to international audiences who love to romanticise the city, but this wasn't the case at all, and didn't rub me the wrong way, which is a massive win. I wasn't the biggest fan of Ruby in the beginning, as she came across as quite ditsy, but I grew to really root for her success, both in love and in life, and I thought that she and Luke had really good chemistry.
A romance book about films just sounded perfect, and Just Like in the Movies was exactly what I needed! I loved the premise of trying to save a beloved independent cinema in London, and a romance forming around a classic movies season, as it interweaves two of my favourite things, and I thought it was done really well. I do always worry a bit with romances set in London in particular that landmarks and neighbourhoods are going to be referenced incessantly to appeal to international audiences who love to romanticise the city, but this wasn't the case at all, and didn't rub me the wrong way, which is a massive win. I wasn't the biggest fan of Ruby in the beginning, as she came across as quite ditsy, but I grew to really root for her success, both in love and in life, and I thought that she and Luke had really good chemistry.
January 28, 2021
This book is marvelous, the characters shine, and the voice is fantastic. The emotions and just overall plot are quite good. I think this might be one of the most underrated but best books so far in 2021. You get the romance, the drama, and the main focus on the protagonist, Ruby. Everyone gets time to shine, but the ending is so cute. I think this such a raw and real novel that it will become a personal favorite read. Just Like in the Movies by Heidi Rice is not meant for everyone, but it was meant for me.
March 7, 2021
There’s that saying, you can’t make this stuff up....well, clearly you can. Just Like in the Movies by Heidi Rice is something you totally see in the movies. It reminded me of Notting Hill, which is ironic that the setting is in Notting Hill 😉.
🍿
Ruby Graham just lost her best friend in her boss, Matty Devlin. When she learns he left her half of his beloved movie cinema, The Royale, to her she is taken aback. Little was she expecting though that the other half would be left to Matty’s nephew, Luke, a rich real estate investor. While Luke has no interest in helping to save The Royale, it doesn’t stop him from wanting Ruby....
🎞
The development of these characters is so well written that you feel like you are living this story with them. Besides, who wouldn’t want their life to end up like a sweet rom-com?!
🍿
Ruby Graham just lost her best friend in her boss, Matty Devlin. When she learns he left her half of his beloved movie cinema, The Royale, to her she is taken aback. Little was she expecting though that the other half would be left to Matty’s nephew, Luke, a rich real estate investor. While Luke has no interest in helping to save The Royale, it doesn’t stop him from wanting Ruby....
🎞
The development of these characters is so well written that you feel like you are living this story with them. Besides, who wouldn’t want their life to end up like a sweet rom-com?!
February 6, 2021
This book gave me all the feels. I enjoyed it so much. Loved all the Wizard of Oz references, as it’s my favorite movie.
Loved the banter between Ruby and Luke. It was just the right mix of cute, flirty and steamy. Also enjoyed seeing the story from both of their viewpoints.
This was my first book by this author. But I will definitely be reading more immediately!
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for allowing me to read this e-book.
July 30, 2021
This was surprisingly very cute! I loved all the movie references in this book, it made for a very enjoyable read. I wanted to give it a higher rating but the story really started to drag, which put a damper on my excitment. I did think it was quite adorable and a solid read if you're in the mood for a romance about movies.
A huge thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review.
A huge thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2021
Such a perfect story, I flew through this book in one day, I loved the plot the characters and the writing style.
The perfect story for a bit of escapism!
The perfect story for a bit of escapism!
February 20, 2021
This was a good and quick read. It was really interesting reading a book set in a movie theatre since I help run one. I liked all the movie references throughout the book. #netgalley#justlikeintheMovies
April 1, 2021
When Ruby's boss suddenly passes away, he leaves her half of his cinema, with the other half going to the nephew he never met. As the secrets get uncovered you understand why he did this, and as Ruby and Luke spend more time together can she convince him to help her save the cinema?
A great read, and I liked all the references to films and that the book was told from both of their points of view.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
A great read, and I liked all the references to films and that the book was told from both of their points of view.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
March 16, 2021
3.5*
‘Movies are like life, if you look hard enough. A good movie can allow you to walk around in someone else’s shoes and also help you escape your problems, at least for a little while.’
Ruby has recently inherited half of The Royale movie theatre after the sad passing of her friend, mentor and father figure. Apart from badly being in debt, the other fifty percent beneficiary of the cinema is Luke - the son of two famous movie stars who has no time for the movies or movie lovers. Thus proceeds the tale of love/hate relationships with the requisite happily ever after. There are, however, certain endearing qualities to this read that make it stand out.
Of course there will be the predictable encounters (loads of explicit sex!), followed by numerous mullings and musings ... yet thankfully there are little snippets of something deeper and richer. It certainly is not all fluff as there are some painful and poignant themes. The strongest for me was the backstory of Luke and the life he led with famous parents and how that formed the man we see today. Tied into this is the mystery behind why he would be left part ownership of the cinema in the first place. Ruby was also a solid character and I really appreciated her story arc - one of strength tied in with her growth over present security - a win for me.
All up you will read this if you love the chick lit genre full of romance and a cast of quirky yet loveable secondary characters. Yet, there is more to this tale with its themes of forgiveness and unconditional love and growth.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Movies are like life, if you look hard enough. A good movie can allow you to walk around in someone else’s shoes and also help you escape your problems, at least for a little while.’
Ruby has recently inherited half of The Royale movie theatre after the sad passing of her friend, mentor and father figure. Apart from badly being in debt, the other fifty percent beneficiary of the cinema is Luke - the son of two famous movie stars who has no time for the movies or movie lovers. Thus proceeds the tale of love/hate relationships with the requisite happily ever after. There are, however, certain endearing qualities to this read that make it stand out.
Of course there will be the predictable encounters (loads of explicit sex!), followed by numerous mullings and musings ... yet thankfully there are little snippets of something deeper and richer. It certainly is not all fluff as there are some painful and poignant themes. The strongest for me was the backstory of Luke and the life he led with famous parents and how that formed the man we see today. Tied into this is the mystery behind why he would be left part ownership of the cinema in the first place. Ruby was also a solid character and I really appreciated her story arc - one of strength tied in with her growth over present security - a win for me.
All up you will read this if you love the chick lit genre full of romance and a cast of quirky yet loveable secondary characters. Yet, there is more to this tale with its themes of forgiveness and unconditional love and growth.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
October 3, 2021
Just Like In The Movies isn’t just a book for movie lovers.
It packs in grief, loss, heartache, romance, tension and forgiveness all into a sweet covered tome. The characters where likeable and I enjoyed the sunshine optimism of our main character Ruby in the face of all the turbulence that has landed in her lap. Our other main character Luke has a lot of issues resulting in him being a closed off, grouchy guy with a cynical outlook on life and pretty much everything. I would have liked more of a build up to their relationship and more of that heat building tension and less about The Wizard of Oz (personal preference on account that the film mostly creeps me out). However I did enjoy and any book with a Spinal Tap reference automatically goes on my good list.
It packs in grief, loss, heartache, romance, tension and forgiveness all into a sweet covered tome. The characters where likeable and I enjoyed the sunshine optimism of our main character Ruby in the face of all the turbulence that has landed in her lap. Our other main character Luke has a lot of issues resulting in him being a closed off, grouchy guy with a cynical outlook on life and pretty much everything. I would have liked more of a build up to their relationship and more of that heat building tension and less about The Wizard of Oz (personal preference on account that the film mostly creeps me out). However I did enjoy and any book with a Spinal Tap reference automatically goes on my good list.
March 14, 2021
The story opens with our two main characters having their first meeting. It plays out similar to a movie where the two characters are seemingly opposites and are “forced” to be together in a common event. It was a great premise and one of the main reasons why I was excited to read this story, however, I walked away from it with mixed feelings as there were parts that were brilliant and others that just did not work for me. Every reader is different, so some might struggle with parts that I loved (or vice versa) or not struggle with anything at all. There are multiple movies highlighted that give a correlation to each part of the story. The movies featured were really cute and included: The Wizard of Oz, About a Boy, Brokeback Mountain, The Way We Were, and The Last of the Mohicans.
Ruby Graham is devastated after the sudden loss of her best friend, Matty. We open the story at an attorney’s office to read Matty’s last will and testament. Matty has left half of The Royale, the classics movie theatre that he owned, and was Ruby’s workplace since she was a teen. The other half of the theatre was left to Matty’s nephew, a New York high-end real estate developer, Luke Devlin. Matty and Luke never met so Luke and Ruby are baffled as to why half of the theatre was left to him. Luke also does not have an interest in movies or theatres, so he is confused even further about this inheritance. Due to an unfortunate incident involving some trespassing, Luke cannot escape The Royale and must complete community service at the theatre. This means that he and Ruby are forced to spend more time together while he works on projects here and there. The two start as enemies and eventually become lovers with the added forced proximity troupe.
Luke was a fantastic character with a well-written backstory. He is a complex character with an interesting past and a complicated relationship with his family. His life has been in the public eye due to his mother being a famous actress and his father is the worst kept secret in Hollywood. He lives in the shadow of his parents and prefers to live a quieter life away from the spotlight. Unfortunately, Ruby does not get the same treatment with a detailed backstory. She talks here and there about life with Matty at the theatre, but you never fully understand their story. Her character, therefore, never feels complete as you get the very basics of her personality where she loves movies and she is optimistic about its future. I would have loved some flashback chapters where the reader can fully experience Ruby’s life at the theatre when Matty was alive. This way the reader can fully understand how special their bond was and also give more insight into her character. There are additional hints that, like Luke, have some tragedy in her past, but it seemed to be put on the backburner in favor of focusing on Luke’s.
If you love films, then you’ll love the introduction of each of the movies where Ruby and Luke’s individual thoughts about the films are written. I am sure there are lots of readers that would like this idea, but, for me, I thought maybe the first one was necessary, as it did not bring much to the story, except to reiterate that Ruby absolutely adores movies and Luke does not. This fact was established at the very beginning of the story and is repeated every time Ruby made a movie reference, so I felt that these “reviews” of the movies were cute, but not necessary. Aside from their opinions on the movie seeming to be repeated, it also seemed there was some déjà vu happening with some events between the two characters in their will-they-or-won’t-they moments as I felt that it was the same event just at a different point in time. For those times, it seemed that it was not for the plot, as the story would have the same impact without them, but instead, it was for page length and to draw the story out longer. The banter, chemistry, and bond seemed to be there so, for me, it just seemed like all the potential was there, but it was not executed in the manner I prefer.
Overall, I loved that this story was told from both Ruby and Luke’s perspectives. It gave a great insight into both characters and made their growing relationship more engaging. The last part of the book was well-done as there was a lot of heart that brought the story together. You care about the characters by the end, but it just took longer than expected to get there. The romance between the two characters was sweet, but their initial moments escalate quickly. While this happens in multiple stories, I wish there some inner thoughts expressed to at least give some background before any feelings are expressed out loud. The story is very cute and has great potential. There are parts that I wish were done differently, but I would encourage readers to form their own opinions as they might think completely differently from me. If you are a movie-buff who enjoyed an enemy to lovers romance, then this would be a great book to try! [3.5 rounded to 4]
**I give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, for this enjoyable ARC to read. The opinions expressed are completely my own.**
Ruby Graham is devastated after the sudden loss of her best friend, Matty. We open the story at an attorney’s office to read Matty’s last will and testament. Matty has left half of The Royale, the classics movie theatre that he owned, and was Ruby’s workplace since she was a teen. The other half of the theatre was left to Matty’s nephew, a New York high-end real estate developer, Luke Devlin. Matty and Luke never met so Luke and Ruby are baffled as to why half of the theatre was left to him. Luke also does not have an interest in movies or theatres, so he is confused even further about this inheritance. Due to an unfortunate incident involving some trespassing, Luke cannot escape The Royale and must complete community service at the theatre. This means that he and Ruby are forced to spend more time together while he works on projects here and there. The two start as enemies and eventually become lovers with the added forced proximity troupe.
Luke was a fantastic character with a well-written backstory. He is a complex character with an interesting past and a complicated relationship with his family. His life has been in the public eye due to his mother being a famous actress and his father is the worst kept secret in Hollywood. He lives in the shadow of his parents and prefers to live a quieter life away from the spotlight. Unfortunately, Ruby does not get the same treatment with a detailed backstory. She talks here and there about life with Matty at the theatre, but you never fully understand their story. Her character, therefore, never feels complete as you get the very basics of her personality where she loves movies and she is optimistic about its future. I would have loved some flashback chapters where the reader can fully experience Ruby’s life at the theatre when Matty was alive. This way the reader can fully understand how special their bond was and also give more insight into her character. There are additional hints that, like Luke, have some tragedy in her past, but it seemed to be put on the backburner in favor of focusing on Luke’s.
If you love films, then you’ll love the introduction of each of the movies where Ruby and Luke’s individual thoughts about the films are written. I am sure there are lots of readers that would like this idea, but, for me, I thought maybe the first one was necessary, as it did not bring much to the story, except to reiterate that Ruby absolutely adores movies and Luke does not. This fact was established at the very beginning of the story and is repeated every time Ruby made a movie reference, so I felt that these “reviews” of the movies were cute, but not necessary. Aside from their opinions on the movie seeming to be repeated, it also seemed there was some déjà vu happening with some events between the two characters in their will-they-or-won’t-they moments as I felt that it was the same event just at a different point in time. For those times, it seemed that it was not for the plot, as the story would have the same impact without them, but instead, it was for page length and to draw the story out longer. The banter, chemistry, and bond seemed to be there so, for me, it just seemed like all the potential was there, but it was not executed in the manner I prefer.
Overall, I loved that this story was told from both Ruby and Luke’s perspectives. It gave a great insight into both characters and made their growing relationship more engaging. The last part of the book was well-done as there was a lot of heart that brought the story together. You care about the characters by the end, but it just took longer than expected to get there. The romance between the two characters was sweet, but their initial moments escalate quickly. While this happens in multiple stories, I wish there some inner thoughts expressed to at least give some background before any feelings are expressed out loud. The story is very cute and has great potential. There are parts that I wish were done differently, but I would encourage readers to form their own opinions as they might think completely differently from me. If you are a movie-buff who enjoyed an enemy to lovers romance, then this would be a great book to try! [3.5 rounded to 4]
**I give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, for this enjoyable ARC to read. The opinions expressed are completely my own.**
March 8, 2021
I have such mixed feelings with this book. For about the first half, I struggled. I didn't care much about the characters. But near the end of the book, my heart was breaking along with Ruby's and I was close to tears. I think the concept of this book was cute, and if you like the movies The Wizard of Oz, About a Boy, Brokeback Mountain, They Way We Were, and The Last of the Mohicans, you will enjoy this story. I think splitting up the different parts of the books in terms of these movies, and starting each section with Ruby and Luke's thoughts on the film was a really creative idea. There are a couple other movie references thrown in there, two of my absolute favorites being "Optimus Primer" and "He was your father, Luke" that were some of my favorite parts of the book. Long story short, if you are a film buff, you will likely catch and enjoy the references.
Please, please go read this book for yourself before reading my thoughts, there are spoilers ahead, and I don't want to sway you with how I felt.
I think I would have been more invested in the story earlier on if the author decided to dedicate the first 10 to 15% of the book to life before Matty dies. Ruby is naturally devastated at the loss of her father figure, but I almost found it hard to relate to her grief having never met Matty before. Sure, she describes what Matty was like, but it would have been so much more effective to actually read his character for myself, then his death would have been as much of a shock to me as it was to Ruby, and I would have felt her pain a little deeper.
Luke's backstory is nothing short of tragic, and I think a trigger warning is in order, as part of his story deals with his father's suicide. But I also almost wish we got more of Ruby's past. She mentions brief details in passing, but I would have liked it if the two character's childhoods got more of an equal balance. It would have been a nice bonding point for the two of them, too, if they both talked more about what their parent's were like, and the hardships they suffered growing up.
There were plenty of sweet moments throughout the book, but I felt like the relationship between Luke and Ruby escalated far too quickly. I mean, one moment, Luke's coming over to fix the boiler in Ruby's flat, and the next he's washing her hair and talking about how turned on they both are. The moments like that didn't quite feel realistic to me. That being said, I think Ruby's pain at Luke leaving was so well done, I mean I was feeling it in my heart almost as much as she was, and that final moment in the bar, and their struggles to move on, brought me close to tears.
I feel like there were too many supporting characters to keep straight. Naturally there's a full staff of the Royale to keep track of, but if the inner circle of employees had been kept to a minimum, and those characters actually got attention, as well traits that set them apart from everyone else, I would have been more invested in the group as a whole. They would have felt like a true, close-knit family, and it would have been a wonderful execution of the found family trope if their characters were more developed, as well as if we actually got to see Luke fall in love with the Royale more.
Overall, I think this was a decent contemporary romance, but there were so many things that were off-putting for the first half of the story that it's strong ending didn't do much to blow me away. Ruby at times felt almost pretentious in her love for certain movies, as if it was a crime against humanity that someone wouldn't like The Wizard of Oz. And Ruby perfectly sums up my thoughts about Luke at the beginning when she says "And that huge stick stuck so far up your bum I'm surprised it doesn't give you lockjaw." Luke was nothing short of an asshole in the beginning, and yes, character development is important, but I felt that he needed some more redeeming qualities. Either that, or establish his tragic past earlier, so we as readers can at least somewhat understand his behavior. He comes around of course, but the fact that he just assumed from the moment he met Ruby that she was Matty's bimbo felt super derogatory towards her and made me seriously dislike his character at first (I mean, the guy didn't even know her and he was set in his opinion that Matty was her sugar daddy). Like I said, the story and the characters pick up in the end, which is why I am so conflicted. With a couple character and story tweaks this book could have been fantastic, but it just wasn't completely for me.
Please, please go read this book for yourself before reading my thoughts, there are spoilers ahead, and I don't want to sway you with how I felt.
I think I would have been more invested in the story earlier on if the author decided to dedicate the first 10 to 15% of the book to life before Matty dies. Ruby is naturally devastated at the loss of her father figure, but I almost found it hard to relate to her grief having never met Matty before. Sure, she describes what Matty was like, but it would have been so much more effective to actually read his character for myself, then his death would have been as much of a shock to me as it was to Ruby, and I would have felt her pain a little deeper.
Luke's backstory is nothing short of tragic, and I think a trigger warning is in order, as part of his story deals with his father's suicide. But I also almost wish we got more of Ruby's past. She mentions brief details in passing, but I would have liked it if the two character's childhoods got more of an equal balance. It would have been a nice bonding point for the two of them, too, if they both talked more about what their parent's were like, and the hardships they suffered growing up.
There were plenty of sweet moments throughout the book, but I felt like the relationship between Luke and Ruby escalated far too quickly. I mean, one moment, Luke's coming over to fix the boiler in Ruby's flat, and the next he's washing her hair and talking about how turned on they both are. The moments like that didn't quite feel realistic to me. That being said, I think Ruby's pain at Luke leaving was so well done, I mean I was feeling it in my heart almost as much as she was, and that final moment in the bar, and their struggles to move on, brought me close to tears.
I feel like there were too many supporting characters to keep straight. Naturally there's a full staff of the Royale to keep track of, but if the inner circle of employees had been kept to a minimum, and those characters actually got attention, as well traits that set them apart from everyone else, I would have been more invested in the group as a whole. They would have felt like a true, close-knit family, and it would have been a wonderful execution of the found family trope if their characters were more developed, as well as if we actually got to see Luke fall in love with the Royale more.
Overall, I think this was a decent contemporary romance, but there were so many things that were off-putting for the first half of the story that it's strong ending didn't do much to blow me away. Ruby at times felt almost pretentious in her love for certain movies, as if it was a crime against humanity that someone wouldn't like The Wizard of Oz. And Ruby perfectly sums up my thoughts about Luke at the beginning when she says "And that huge stick stuck so far up your bum I'm surprised it doesn't give you lockjaw." Luke was nothing short of an asshole in the beginning, and yes, character development is important, but I felt that he needed some more redeeming qualities. Either that, or establish his tragic past earlier, so we as readers can at least somewhat understand his behavior. He comes around of course, but the fact that he just assumed from the moment he met Ruby that she was Matty's bimbo felt super derogatory towards her and made me seriously dislike his character at first (I mean, the guy didn't even know her and he was set in his opinion that Matty was her sugar daddy). Like I said, the story and the characters pick up in the end, which is why I am so conflicted. With a couple character and story tweaks this book could have been fantastic, but it just wasn't completely for me.
April 14, 2021
Rice’s new romantic comedy hits all the beats and still offers something a little deeper than what there is to expect from this genre giving it a unique heart beat in sometimes tired collection.
Rice’s book starts out and even though you pretty much can tell what the ending will be, we read these because of the emotion, heart and the complicated route they take to ensure they end up together. This can be done sloppy and plot devices used to ensure this happens or they can have a true talent and take you on a journey that is thought provoking, fun, comedic and tugs at the heart strings and Rice does the later excellently.
The characters are fun and although there is no real evil or bad person, there is enough shading with their personalities to keep the reader invested. The faults and insecurities ring true and it doesn’t take long until the reader is fully invested in these characters. The secondary characters personalities sometimes get lost within the book but the main character stand strong.
The plot devices used are well done though sometimes the switching back and forth between the two characters thought processes, not often, but at times feels slightly overwritten because there is a little feeling of rehashing what we already know is true. This doesn’t take away from the story but a little bit of editing would keep this punchy.
Ruby’s sensuality comes out with her wit, intelligence and her personality making this a turn on for Luke. Unfortunately, it seems that as this tends to be written for woman, Luke is basically a well chiselled Brad Pit, perfect body and it would be quite nice to have two people with striking characters be beyond the physical to set it aside from other books in this genre. This is a minor complaint and does not however take over from the enjoyment of this read.
Overall, this is nice little romantic comedy that delivers and keeping it set along the Notting Hill placement keeps the romance going. The use of films and how they mirror the characters’ lives is a nice touch. Rice is very capable of giving the genre her own unique twist and although one will find nothing new here, the journey still feels pleasurable and enjoyable.
Rice’s book starts out and even though you pretty much can tell what the ending will be, we read these because of the emotion, heart and the complicated route they take to ensure they end up together. This can be done sloppy and plot devices used to ensure this happens or they can have a true talent and take you on a journey that is thought provoking, fun, comedic and tugs at the heart strings and Rice does the later excellently.
The characters are fun and although there is no real evil or bad person, there is enough shading with their personalities to keep the reader invested. The faults and insecurities ring true and it doesn’t take long until the reader is fully invested in these characters. The secondary characters personalities sometimes get lost within the book but the main character stand strong.
The plot devices used are well done though sometimes the switching back and forth between the two characters thought processes, not often, but at times feels slightly overwritten because there is a little feeling of rehashing what we already know is true. This doesn’t take away from the story but a little bit of editing would keep this punchy.
Ruby’s sensuality comes out with her wit, intelligence and her personality making this a turn on for Luke. Unfortunately, it seems that as this tends to be written for woman, Luke is basically a well chiselled Brad Pit, perfect body and it would be quite nice to have two people with striking characters be beyond the physical to set it aside from other books in this genre. This is a minor complaint and does not however take over from the enjoyment of this read.
Overall, this is nice little romantic comedy that delivers and keeping it set along the Notting Hill placement keeps the romance going. The use of films and how they mirror the characters’ lives is a nice touch. Rice is very capable of giving the genre her own unique twist and although one will find nothing new here, the journey still feels pleasurable and enjoyable.
March 4, 2021
Just Like In The Movies is a lovely light read when you're in the mood for something fun.
What I Liked
I liked how the theme of grief and loss is handled throughout the story. Both of the main characters experienced significant losses in their lives, yet how they handle it is much different. I found the use of the theme impactful, looking at the different ways people experience and process grief in their lives, from closing off part of themselves to finding peace in sharing remembrances to working hard to keep the dead's wishes alive. All responses were genuine and raw and were handled in a manner that I could instantly recognize and feel compassion.
I enjoyed the main plot of figuring out how to keep The Royale going once Matty passed. The theater is such a unique part of the community, providing color and vibrancy in many patrons' lives. I loved the inclusivity and the creativity that was part of every event that took place there. It is such a cool place and would definitely be a fun way to experience old movies and spend an evening.
One of the main characters, Luke, is developed very intricately and with empathy for all that he has had to overcome. He is not always likable, but the more you get to know him, the easier it is to understand why he is somewhat standoffish. Unfortunately, Ruby did not get equal development, and her backstory remains a mystery. I needed to know more about her and less about her sexual likes and fantasies to really understand and embrace her character.
What I Wish
I wish there had been more of a proper budding romance between the main characters. I missed the innocent ideal I am used to in the genre and was a bit put off by the explicitness that bordered on erotica. I could see the characters together, but the lack of a romantic build left me feeling like their romance and relationship were missing a key component and, in turn, credibility.
To Read or Not to Read
If you are looking for a light read and love movies, this is an excellent choice for your next read.
What I Liked
I liked how the theme of grief and loss is handled throughout the story. Both of the main characters experienced significant losses in their lives, yet how they handle it is much different. I found the use of the theme impactful, looking at the different ways people experience and process grief in their lives, from closing off part of themselves to finding peace in sharing remembrances to working hard to keep the dead's wishes alive. All responses were genuine and raw and were handled in a manner that I could instantly recognize and feel compassion.
I enjoyed the main plot of figuring out how to keep The Royale going once Matty passed. The theater is such a unique part of the community, providing color and vibrancy in many patrons' lives. I loved the inclusivity and the creativity that was part of every event that took place there. It is such a cool place and would definitely be a fun way to experience old movies and spend an evening.
One of the main characters, Luke, is developed very intricately and with empathy for all that he has had to overcome. He is not always likable, but the more you get to know him, the easier it is to understand why he is somewhat standoffish. Unfortunately, Ruby did not get equal development, and her backstory remains a mystery. I needed to know more about her and less about her sexual likes and fantasies to really understand and embrace her character.
What I Wish
I wish there had been more of a proper budding romance between the main characters. I missed the innocent ideal I am used to in the genre and was a bit put off by the explicitness that bordered on erotica. I could see the characters together, but the lack of a romantic build left me feeling like their romance and relationship were missing a key component and, in turn, credibility.
To Read or Not to Read
If you are looking for a light read and love movies, this is an excellent choice for your next read.
March 14, 2021
“Love is a wonderful gift... Mostly because it’s never ever what you expect it to be. Sometimes it’s fleeting, sometimes it lasts, sometimes it can’t. But each time you unwrap it, it’s entirely unique.”
Just Like in the Movies, is a British Rom-Com, centered on Ruby and her beloved Royale movie theater. Ruby’s best friend and father figure, Matty, unexpectedly passes and leaves her as part owner of The Royale. Ruby wants nothing more than to keep Matty’s life’s work alive, but her new fellow owner, Luke, Matty’s long lost nephew, has other ideas.
What I Loved:
✨All the Movie References - My film loving heart was so full seeing all the various film references interwoven into the story.
✨The Sunshine and Grump Trope - I loved how different Ruby and Luke were from one another - optimistic, movie loving Ruby, couldn’t be more of an opposite to jaded and cynical Luke. Seeing them eventually fall for one another was just so satisfying!
✨The Setting - From scattering Matty’s ashes in Hyde Park to the Royale being located in Notting Hill, I adored how this tale took me on a journey to some of my favorite London locales!
✨The Humor - Romance that makes me swoon as well as laugh, is one of my absolute favorite things. Just Like in the Movies, had me rooting for Ruby and Luke’s romance but also laughing out loud constantly.
✨The Dual Points of View - Getting to see the story from both Ruby’s and Luke’s perspective was wonderful because both had such differing mindsets.
In short, I sincerely loved Just Like in the Movies. From navigating loss to traversing the complicated path to happily ever after, any fan of rom-coms (cinematic or bookish) will find something to love about Ruby and Luke’s story.
Thank you to @harpercollinsuk @onemorechapterhc and @netgalley for the ARC!
Just Like in the Movies, is a British Rom-Com, centered on Ruby and her beloved Royale movie theater. Ruby’s best friend and father figure, Matty, unexpectedly passes and leaves her as part owner of The Royale. Ruby wants nothing more than to keep Matty’s life’s work alive, but her new fellow owner, Luke, Matty’s long lost nephew, has other ideas.
What I Loved:
✨All the Movie References - My film loving heart was so full seeing all the various film references interwoven into the story.
✨The Sunshine and Grump Trope - I loved how different Ruby and Luke were from one another - optimistic, movie loving Ruby, couldn’t be more of an opposite to jaded and cynical Luke. Seeing them eventually fall for one another was just so satisfying!
✨The Setting - From scattering Matty’s ashes in Hyde Park to the Royale being located in Notting Hill, I adored how this tale took me on a journey to some of my favorite London locales!
✨The Humor - Romance that makes me swoon as well as laugh, is one of my absolute favorite things. Just Like in the Movies, had me rooting for Ruby and Luke’s romance but also laughing out loud constantly.
✨The Dual Points of View - Getting to see the story from both Ruby’s and Luke’s perspective was wonderful because both had such differing mindsets.
In short, I sincerely loved Just Like in the Movies. From navigating loss to traversing the complicated path to happily ever after, any fan of rom-coms (cinematic or bookish) will find something to love about Ruby and Luke’s story.
Thank you to @harpercollinsuk @onemorechapterhc and @netgalley for the ARC!
January 23, 2021
Book TW: Death, Suicide, Anxiety
Ruby Graham's best friend and mentor Matty died and left her half of the Royale Theatre. The other half was left to his nephew who he had never met, leaving both Ruby and Luke confused. Ruby trying to navigate her grief of losing her best friend and the potential of losing her last link to him, is willing to do anything to save the Royle even if that means manipulating his nephew into staying. Luke, a product of two Hollywood movie stars and tragedy has tried his whole life to stay out of the spotlight and wants nothing to do with the Royale or Ruby. Thanks to a late-night illegal park visit he is forced to spend court-mandated quality time with both. Just Like in the Movies is a classic enemies to lovers trope with steamy passion.
As a movie buff myself I loved all of the references and how the movies mentioned related to the character's arcs. The story is narrated by both Ruby and Luke which made me empathize with both characters more. I thoroughly enjoyed the content of the book but felt that both Ruby and Luke had very shallow storylines and did not experience a lot of growth until the last few chapters. The book is only 350 pages so I understand there was not a lot of time for the characters to fully develop. Rice did a fantastic job of describing the details of every scene to immerse you in the storyline. I gave Just Like in the Movies 4/5 stars because I loved the authors writing and the theme of the book but at moments it felt rushed. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Ruby Graham's best friend and mentor Matty died and left her half of the Royale Theatre. The other half was left to his nephew who he had never met, leaving both Ruby and Luke confused. Ruby trying to navigate her grief of losing her best friend and the potential of losing her last link to him, is willing to do anything to save the Royle even if that means manipulating his nephew into staying. Luke, a product of two Hollywood movie stars and tragedy has tried his whole life to stay out of the spotlight and wants nothing to do with the Royale or Ruby. Thanks to a late-night illegal park visit he is forced to spend court-mandated quality time with both. Just Like in the Movies is a classic enemies to lovers trope with steamy passion.
As a movie buff myself I loved all of the references and how the movies mentioned related to the character's arcs. The story is narrated by both Ruby and Luke which made me empathize with both characters more. I thoroughly enjoyed the content of the book but felt that both Ruby and Luke had very shallow storylines and did not experience a lot of growth until the last few chapters. The book is only 350 pages so I understand there was not a lot of time for the characters to fully develop. Rice did a fantastic job of describing the details of every scene to immerse you in the storyline. I gave Just Like in the Movies 4/5 stars because I loved the authors writing and the theme of the book but at moments it felt rushed. I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 17, 2021
ARC review
4/5 stars
I really enjoyed this book- I read it in 2 days! I found it a classic romance read, but with some deeper topics in there as well. There is an under layer of grief throughout, as Ruby is mourning the loss of her best friend Matty. I enjoyed how it read for the most part, I struggled in parts where it felt a bit stiff but for the rest of it, their story flows nicely.
I grew to love both characters and I think they were developed really well, as we learn a lot about Luke as we go through, and learn to love him despite his initial impression. I loved how both viewpoints were included as I think it made us as readers closer to Luke and more likely to root for Ruby and him, as without his pov he would have been much less likeable. I love romance reads with both pov so I really enjoyed that aspect!
I thought the theme of movies and films felt like it was really intertwined in the story and was a lovely touch, as at first I thought the movie theme would be almost like an added extra, but it felt like it really held the story together.
My only critisim would be that in parts the text felt a bit clunky and I do feel like Ruby's back story was not as in depth as I would have liked it to be. There were a few parts where I thought we were about to learn more about her but we only got a surface view, and I would have preferd all or nothing as it felt a bit half hearted.
Overall I loved it and would recommend to anyone looking for a good romance read, that includes layers of difficult topics, but is not draining in anyway.
4/5 stars
I really enjoyed this book- I read it in 2 days! I found it a classic romance read, but with some deeper topics in there as well. There is an under layer of grief throughout, as Ruby is mourning the loss of her best friend Matty. I enjoyed how it read for the most part, I struggled in parts where it felt a bit stiff but for the rest of it, their story flows nicely.
I grew to love both characters and I think they were developed really well, as we learn a lot about Luke as we go through, and learn to love him despite his initial impression. I loved how both viewpoints were included as I think it made us as readers closer to Luke and more likely to root for Ruby and him, as without his pov he would have been much less likeable. I love romance reads with both pov so I really enjoyed that aspect!
I thought the theme of movies and films felt like it was really intertwined in the story and was a lovely touch, as at first I thought the movie theme would be almost like an added extra, but it felt like it really held the story together.
My only critisim would be that in parts the text felt a bit clunky and I do feel like Ruby's back story was not as in depth as I would have liked it to be. There were a few parts where I thought we were about to learn more about her but we only got a surface view, and I would have preferd all or nothing as it felt a bit half hearted.
Overall I loved it and would recommend to anyone looking for a good romance read, that includes layers of difficult topics, but is not draining in anyway.
March 14, 2021
~3.5⭐Rating~
The Royale Theater has always been more of a home than place of work for Ruby and owner Matty always more of a father than employer. So when Ruby learns that Matty has left half the theater to her after his death, Ruby is determined to bring the place back to its former glory. The only problem being the other half now belongs to Matty's nephew cutthroat Manhattan developer Luke Devlin.
••
The last thing Luke wants is to be thrown into the spot light again, after spending so much of his childhood hiding from the fame and attention that followed his parents, he definitely does not want to have anything to do with bring The Royale back to life. And he definitely did not sign up to have to deal with over the top bubbly Ruby. But without much of a choice Luke finds himself working with both the theater and Ruby the only question is Ruby be able to turn things around and prove to Luke that all that glitters isnt bad and will these two find their own happily ever after?
••
This was a cute enemies to lovers romance mixed with loads of movie references. I loved watching these two opposites fall for each other while breaking down their walls.
••
I absolutely loved Ruby and her sunshine bubbly attitude, where as Luke was the complete opposite being a broody grump only trying to protect his soft heart. Their connection was definitely evident and sooo perfect.
••
Just Like In The Movies is definitely a cute enemies to lovers romance where the two main characters come together to heal each other all while making you fall in love with them.
The Royale Theater has always been more of a home than place of work for Ruby and owner Matty always more of a father than employer. So when Ruby learns that Matty has left half the theater to her after his death, Ruby is determined to bring the place back to its former glory. The only problem being the other half now belongs to Matty's nephew cutthroat Manhattan developer Luke Devlin.
••
The last thing Luke wants is to be thrown into the spot light again, after spending so much of his childhood hiding from the fame and attention that followed his parents, he definitely does not want to have anything to do with bring The Royale back to life. And he definitely did not sign up to have to deal with over the top bubbly Ruby. But without much of a choice Luke finds himself working with both the theater and Ruby the only question is Ruby be able to turn things around and prove to Luke that all that glitters isnt bad and will these two find their own happily ever after?
••
This was a cute enemies to lovers romance mixed with loads of movie references. I loved watching these two opposites fall for each other while breaking down their walls.
••
I absolutely loved Ruby and her sunshine bubbly attitude, where as Luke was the complete opposite being a broody grump only trying to protect his soft heart. Their connection was definitely evident and sooo perfect.
••
Just Like In The Movies is definitely a cute enemies to lovers romance where the two main characters come together to heal each other all while making you fall in love with them.
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