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Whiskey Dolls #2
Knockout
It wasn’t fair that the man I hated with a passion was so freaking gorgeous.
Things in Layla Fox’s life were going great. She had a fantastic job, amazing friends, and a killer apartment. There was just one tiny glitch in all that perfect. Her upstairs neighbor was the very definition of tall, dark, and handsome . . . and she hated the man with every cell in her body.
Jude Kingsley was the most arrogant jerk she’d ever met, making the fact that she was attracted to him more than a little inconvenient.
When the two of them are forced together by Jude’s meddling grandmother, the bitter rivalry between the two feuding neighbors suddenly turns into something very different. And a raw, intense chemistry like theirs is bound to explode if they aren’t careful.
Things in Layla Fox’s life were going great. She had a fantastic job, amazing friends, and a killer apartment. There was just one tiny glitch in all that perfect. Her upstairs neighbor was the very definition of tall, dark, and handsome . . . and she hated the man with every cell in her body.
Jude Kingsley was the most arrogant jerk she’d ever met, making the fact that she was attracted to him more than a little inconvenient.
When the two of them are forced together by Jude’s meddling grandmother, the bitter rivalry between the two feuding neighbors suddenly turns into something very different. And a raw, intense chemistry like theirs is bound to explode if they aren’t careful.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2021
378 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Prince
102 books2,535 followersBorn and raised around Houston, Jessica is a self proclaimed caffeine addict, connoisseur of inexpensive wine, and the worst driver in the state of Texas. In addition to being all of these things, she’s first and foremost a wife and mom.
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
October 22, 2022
Spoilers ahead
New neighbors Layla and Jude get off on the wrong foot and spend months pranking and hating each other before they open their eyes to the attraction between them.
Random thoughts
Another non manwhore H, JP girl you're on a roll!! Finally
H was engaged previously but the heifer left him for his cousin, he'd been with 2 other women after that breakup
h heard his hookup with one of those women but at that point they'd hated each other and she was lusting after another guy in their building
Slight OM drama
Gram was hilarious
I kinda felt the rich family was a bit OTT but maybe some rich ppl actually act like this? Ion know
Pretty awesome h, though I'm still confused as to how she's got so much money? Idk
Ok H, his family issues lowered my opinion of him tbh. I'm alllllllllll about cutting toxic ppl out of your lives, family included, so the little family drama was a bit overdone to me 🤷🏾♀️
Now my biggest issue.....dear author as much as I'm a fan of you dropping the skeevy manwhores I'm concerned about the new trend of the dreaded "unnecessary separation" that once again reared it's ugly head in this second book of this series. I mean they'd already spent quite a bit of the book apart..... why'd you have to throw in that dumb separation 🤦🏾♀️
Anywho's is it just me who wanted them to adopt Marcus?
Why'd I think there were more books out in this series 🤦🏾♀️darn it!
New neighbors Layla and Jude get off on the wrong foot and spend months pranking and hating each other before they open their eyes to the attraction between them.
Random thoughts
Another non manwhore H, JP girl you're on a roll!! Finally
H was engaged previously but the heifer left him for his cousin, he'd been with 2 other women after that breakup
h heard his hookup with one of those women but at that point they'd hated each other and she was lusting after another guy in their building
Slight OM drama
Gram was hilarious
I kinda felt the rich family was a bit OTT but maybe some rich ppl actually act like this? Ion know
Pretty awesome h, though I'm still confused as to how she's got so much money? Idk
Ok H, his family issues lowered my opinion of him tbh. I'm alllllllllll about cutting toxic ppl out of your lives, family included, so the little family drama was a bit overdone to me 🤷🏾♀️
Now my biggest issue.....dear author as much as I'm a fan of you dropping the skeevy manwhores I'm concerned about the new trend of the dreaded "unnecessary separation" that once again reared it's ugly head in this second book of this series. I mean they'd already spent quite a bit of the book apart..... why'd you have to throw in that dumb separation 🤦🏾♀️
Anywho's is it just me who wanted them to adopt Marcus?
Why'd I think there were more books out in this series 🤦🏾♀️darn it!
November 16, 2021
I was looking forward to this but just read a sample.
"There was even one night, not too long after I moved in, when he’d brought a woman back to his apartment. I wasn’t sure if the sheetrock in the whole building was paper-thin, or if he’d intentionally made the effort of finding the most annoyingly loud woman in whatever dive bar he trolled, but the sounds of them having sex rang through my ceiling clear as a bell. The chick’s nasally pleas to God were enough to make my ears bleed, so I’d returned the favor by standing on my couch and beating at the ceiling with a broom handle for the entire length of it"
Grrrr
After they sort themselves out there is no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in form of ex fiance but no real issue.
Other man drama as a neighbor is interested in the heroine but nothing really comes of it.
My issue is every evil chauis so OTT. The whole book feels a bit OTT.
It's okay.
The grandmother is supposed to be funny but it was also OTT to me.
HEA.
Epilogue.
"There was even one night, not too long after I moved in, when he’d brought a woman back to his apartment. I wasn’t sure if the sheetrock in the whole building was paper-thin, or if he’d intentionally made the effort of finding the most annoyingly loud woman in whatever dive bar he trolled, but the sounds of them having sex rang through my ceiling clear as a bell. The chick’s nasally pleas to God were enough to make my ears bleed, so I’d returned the favor by standing on my couch and beating at the ceiling with a broom handle for the entire length of it"
Grrrr
After they sort themselves out there is no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in form of ex fiance but no real issue.
Other man drama as a neighbor is interested in the heroine but nothing really comes of it.
My issue is every evil chauis so OTT. The whole book feels a bit OTT.
It's okay.
The grandmother is supposed to be funny but it was also OTT to me.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 17, 2021KNOCKOUT is LIVE! Grab your copy HERE
November 24, 2021
Better than the first book...
but not as good as some of her other series. I did really like Jude's grandmother. She was my favorite character out of the book. Layla and Jude had pretty decent chemistry, but towards the end the story felt like it was dragging a little bit.
but not as good as some of her other series. I did really like Jude's grandmother. She was my favorite character out of the book. Layla and Jude had pretty decent chemistry, but towards the end the story felt like it was dragging a little bit.
November 15, 2021
I gobbled up this Enemies to Lovers romance right quick.
The antics between the two MC's was downright entertaining as heck. And I will be honest when I say at some point I didn't want that to end while at the same time the tension between these two was a clear as day and I couldn't wait for these two to finally get with the program.
Layla was so very loveable and she was one of those female characters that had you rooting for her to get her HEA with someone who would treat her the way she deserved. Jude well, he had to convince me that he was the right man for the job and I love that Jessica Prince made him work for it and rightfully so. But boy oh boy did he have those moments that had you sighing in book boyfriend bliss.
And I need to talk about one of my all time fav side characters from Jessica Prince ever and that was the absolutely entertaining as all heck Grandmother Kingsley she was kick ass. I loved everything about that woman. Dare I say she may have even stole the spotlight multiple times from Jude and Layla.
Knockout was exactly what I've come to expect from Prince and that's a fantastic read that I loved.
Funny, entertaining and everything you would want in a romance. Just goodness all around.
The antics between the two MC's was downright entertaining as heck. And I will be honest when I say at some point I didn't want that to end while at the same time the tension between these two was a clear as day and I couldn't wait for these two to finally get with the program.
Layla was so very loveable and she was one of those female characters that had you rooting for her to get her HEA with someone who would treat her the way she deserved. Jude well, he had to convince me that he was the right man for the job and I love that Jessica Prince made him work for it and rightfully so. But boy oh boy did he have those moments that had you sighing in book boyfriend bliss.
And I need to talk about one of my all time fav side characters from Jessica Prince ever and that was the absolutely entertaining as all heck Grandmother Kingsley she was kick ass. I loved everything about that woman. Dare I say she may have even stole the spotlight multiple times from Jude and Layla.
Knockout was exactly what I've come to expect from Prince and that's a fantastic read that I loved.
Funny, entertaining and everything you would want in a romance. Just goodness all around.
November 17, 2021
4.5 Stars!
POV: Dual (1st person)
Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers
Triggers: Foster system
Likes: Some of the best enemies-to-lovers banter I've read! Full of I hate you but I want you! These two really didn't hold back. Layla is so strong after a tough childhood. And Jude has such a gruff exterior, when all he really needs is for someone to love him for who he is, not what he has. Plus Gram is hilarious, I need to be like her when I get older!
Dislikes: I wanted a little more Whiskey Dolls action!
Overview: I absolutely loved book 1 (Bombshell) in the Whiskey Dolls series, and this 2nd book does not disappoint! It had so touching moments that really pulled at your heartstrings as the story moved on. They both had difficult childhoods, in very different ways, so you can’t help but root for them to finally find love!
On top of this you also have the enemies-to-lovers hijinks and the hilarious matchmaking gran! Throw in oodles of steam, and you have yourself this winner!
POV: Dual (1st person)
Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers
Triggers: Foster system
Likes: Some of the best enemies-to-lovers banter I've read! Full of I hate you but I want you! These two really didn't hold back. Layla is so strong after a tough childhood. And Jude has such a gruff exterior, when all he really needs is for someone to love him for who he is, not what he has. Plus Gram is hilarious, I need to be like her when I get older!
Dislikes: I wanted a little more Whiskey Dolls action!
Overview: I absolutely loved book 1 (Bombshell) in the Whiskey Dolls series, and this 2nd book does not disappoint! It had so touching moments that really pulled at your heartstrings as the story moved on. They both had difficult childhoods, in very different ways, so you can’t help but root for them to finally find love!
On top of this you also have the enemies-to-lovers hijinks and the hilarious matchmaking gran! Throw in oodles of steam, and you have yourself this winner!
November 16, 2021
I was looking forward to this but just read a sample.
"There was even one night, not too long after I moved in, when he’d brought a woman back to his apartment. I wasn’t sure if the sheetrock in the whole building was paper-thin, or if he’d intentionally made the effort of finding the most annoyingly loud woman in whatever dive bar he trolled, but the sounds of them having sex rang through my ceiling clear as a bell. The chick’s nasally pleas to God were enough to make my ears bleed, so I’d returned the favor by standing on my couch and beating at the ceiling with a broom handle for the entire length of it"
Grrrr
After they sort themselves out there is no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in form of ex fiance but no real issue.
Other man drama as a neighbor is interested in the heroine but nothing really comes of it.
My issue is every evil chauis so OTT. The whole book feels a bit OTT.
It's okay.
The grandmother is supposed to be funny but it was also OTT to me.
HEA.
Epilogue.
"There was even one night, not too long after I moved in, when he’d brought a woman back to his apartment. I wasn’t sure if the sheetrock in the whole building was paper-thin, or if he’d intentionally made the effort of finding the most annoyingly loud woman in whatever dive bar he trolled, but the sounds of them having sex rang through my ceiling clear as a bell. The chick’s nasally pleas to God were enough to make my ears bleed, so I’d returned the favor by standing on my couch and beating at the ceiling with a broom handle for the entire length of it"
Grrrr
After they sort themselves out there is no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in form of ex fiance but no real issue.
Other man drama as a neighbor is interested in the heroine but nothing really comes of it.
My issue is every evil chauis so OTT. The whole book feels a bit OTT.
It's okay.
The grandmother is supposed to be funny but it was also OTT to me.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 19, 2021DNF 58%
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November 13, 2021
***5 ‘Team Sybil’ Stars***
Okay, so maybe I shouldn’t base a portion of my love of a book on a supporting character, but it is simply impossible not to in this case, be she was AMAZING!
But rewinding a bit to Layla and Jude. These two. They are both pretty amazing people in how they’ve carved out their own bits of happiness in their lives and careers. They are both good people with big hearts with those they call their own and will move heaven and earth for them...but…
But OMG these two. I swear. They put unruly toddlers to shame with their rivalry. Some things were funny, some eye roll inducing, but all it did was prove that they had chemistry, intense chemistry. Thankfully, with the help (aka shoving them in the “right” direction) of some very, very nosy and determined people in their lives, they got over themselves and found that they had a spark that could turn into flames if only they allowed it.
This was such a fun read. No major outside drama, which was good because they brought out enough crazy on their own, and it was filled with amazing characters. The Whiskey Doll crew were so much fun, as well as the Hope Valley ladies that made appearances. But Sybil was just everything! I could go on and on about her, but I won’t. You MUST experience her and Layla and Jude all on your own. So, if you’re looking for a fun, enemies to lovers read with a lot of heart, then this is a must click!
~ Copy provided by LAw/F & voluntarily reviewed ~
Okay, so maybe I shouldn’t base a portion of my love of a book on a supporting character, but it is simply impossible not to in this case, be she was AMAZING!
But rewinding a bit to Layla and Jude. These two. They are both pretty amazing people in how they’ve carved out their own bits of happiness in their lives and careers. They are both good people with big hearts with those they call their own and will move heaven and earth for them...but…
But OMG these two. I swear. They put unruly toddlers to shame with their rivalry. Some things were funny, some eye roll inducing, but all it did was prove that they had chemistry, intense chemistry. Thankfully, with the help (aka shoving them in the “right” direction) of some very, very nosy and determined people in their lives, they got over themselves and found that they had a spark that could turn into flames if only they allowed it.
This was such a fun read. No major outside drama, which was good because they brought out enough crazy on their own, and it was filled with amazing characters. The Whiskey Doll crew were so much fun, as well as the Hope Valley ladies that made appearances. But Sybil was just everything! I could go on and on about her, but I won’t. You MUST experience her and Layla and Jude all on your own. So, if you’re looking for a fun, enemies to lovers read with a lot of heart, then this is a must click!
~ Copy provided by LAw/F & voluntarily reviewed ~
November 18, 2021
Ok -2.5 stars
Jessica Prince has written some amazing books, but this one just didn’t do it for me. In one of the first chapters, it’s mentioned that Layla gets to listen to Jude have sex with another woman. This author has put this scene in at least a few of her books and I absolutely hate it every time!! Why?? Do readers actually like it? I absolutely hate when I have to read about any hero having sex with another woman and the fact that the heroine gets to listen to it—just gross.
I didn’t find Layla or Jude likable. She was snarky and immature and he was just an all around jerk. The push/pull, hot/cold and mixed signals went on forever it seemed. I found their constant bickering and insults just annoying and immature. They go from enemies to just friends and back to enemies and by 50% in I didn’t even care if they got together or not.
Once they do finally get together, the nonstop insults and fighting finally stopped, but I wasn’t into them as a couple. They break up for a little bit and I wasn’t even sad. There is a HFN which I found disappointing because he was talking about putting a ring on her finger for real in the previous chapters but he never does. They just move in together.
Jessica Prince has written some amazing books, but this one just didn’t do it for me. In one of the first chapters, it’s mentioned that Layla gets to listen to Jude have sex with another woman. This author has put this scene in at least a few of her books and I absolutely hate it every time!! Why?? Do readers actually like it? I absolutely hate when I have to read about any hero having sex with another woman and the fact that the heroine gets to listen to it—just gross.
I didn’t find Layla or Jude likable. She was snarky and immature and he was just an all around jerk. The push/pull, hot/cold and mixed signals went on forever it seemed. I found their constant bickering and insults just annoying and immature. They go from enemies to just friends and back to enemies and by 50% in I didn’t even care if they got together or not.
Once they do finally get together, the nonstop insults and fighting finally stopped, but I wasn’t into them as a couple. They break up for a little bit and I wasn’t even sad. There is a HFN which I found disappointing because he was talking about putting a ring on her finger for real in the previous chapters but he never does. They just move in together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2022
Jude Kingsley meets Layla Fox the day she is moving in to his apartment complex, fancy car, fancy clothes, impeccable makeup and Jude knows her type and wants nothing to do with it. Layla doesn't know what she did to tick Jude off but a war is battling between them and as each prank heats up so does the chemistry. One blind date later Jude and Layla find that their has been a huge misunderstanding and Jude decides he wants Layla. They work together but can Jude
s hiccups about his family cause a problem between them?
This was terrific, I had read when it came out but for some reason did not review. The second time is just as good. I really liked Jude and Layla, there is some really hilarious moments in this one and Jude's grandmother is a hoot. Another amazing read from this author.
s hiccups about his family cause a problem between them?
This was terrific, I had read when it came out but for some reason did not review. The second time is just as good. I really liked Jude and Layla, there is some really hilarious moments in this one and Jude's grandmother is a hoot. Another amazing read from this author.
November 12, 2021
Layla Fox finally moves into her dream apartment, or so she thinks. From the first instance that she meets Jude Kingsley, what can you say...it was hate at first sight!
The banter and pranks that these two had, I am surprised my kindle didn’t erupt in flames! These two had chemistry from the start, and I couldn’t read fast enough to see what they would do to each other next! They both fed on each other's pranks and verbal sparring.
I loved Gram and her spunk! I loved how Jude loved his grandmother and was truly an exceptional man, despite his horrible family. I loved that Gram stepped in a raised Jude after realizing how horrible her son and daughter in law were to him.
I just can’t say enough how I just loved every part of this book! Jessica truly created characters that messed well together, and I just knew when they finally got together they would light up the kindle!!!! A great addition to the Whiskey Doll Series!
The banter and pranks that these two had, I am surprised my kindle didn’t erupt in flames! These two had chemistry from the start, and I couldn’t read fast enough to see what they would do to each other next! They both fed on each other's pranks and verbal sparring.
I loved Gram and her spunk! I loved how Jude loved his grandmother and was truly an exceptional man, despite his horrible family. I loved that Gram stepped in a raised Jude after realizing how horrible her son and daughter in law were to him.
I just can’t say enough how I just loved every part of this book! Jessica truly created characters that messed well together, and I just knew when they finally got together they would light up the kindle!!!! A great addition to the Whiskey Doll Series!
Want to read
November 15, 2021Knockout is LIVE! 1-CLICK HERE
November 22, 2021
Another perfect book
Enemies to lovers was such an amazing way to capture my attention. Jessica Prince can do absolutely no wrong. I simply adored these two crazies and the crazier Gramma
Enemies to lovers was such an amazing way to capture my attention. Jessica Prince can do absolutely no wrong. I simply adored these two crazies and the crazier Gramma
dnf
December 1, 2021Had to quit this a 59%, I worked my ass off after I "aged out" of foster care, two full time jobs, yet I still couldn't afford a Mercedes and designer clothes in my 20's. How?? She works 4 nights a week... those were my part-time jobs on top of my full-time in my early 30's!
I take most books with foster care in them with a grain of salt, but this was just ridiculous.
I take most books with foster care in them with a grain of salt, but this was just ridiculous.
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December 21, 2021
Book was slow. I'm not fan of slow burn but I can deal if the storyline is interesting. This wasn't really. The main characters were boring and kind of childish. I would recommend to someone looking for this specific plot line, but not a book that I would blindly recommend or read again. 3 stars
November 23, 2021
2.75 stars.
I've absolutely gulped some of JP's books before, but this one, on the whole, didn't do it for it.
All the stupid bickering and pranks at the beginning was cringey and didn't fit what I like from enemies to lovers. Had it been high school kids, maybe, but not grown-ass adults.
The book got better once they admitted feelings.
But the thing that kept me reading was Sybil. She was awesome and made me chuckle many times.
I've absolutely gulped some of JP's books before, but this one, on the whole, didn't do it for it.
All the stupid bickering and pranks at the beginning was cringey and didn't fit what I like from enemies to lovers. Had it been high school kids, maybe, but not grown-ass adults.
The book got better once they admitted feelings.
But the thing that kept me reading was Sybil. She was awesome and made me chuckle many times.
November 13, 2021
Knockout is my new favorite in the Whiskey Dolls series.
Layla was sweet and sassy, with a dash of sarcasm. She was also highly determined, and her positive outlook added to her admirability. Instead of becoming bitter and resentful, she became loving and offered every opportunity to wrap her love around others. She had every reason to be bitter and a list of reasons that could have dimmed her sparkling personality, but instead of becoming bitter and resentful, she became loving and offered every opportunity to wrap her love around others.
Jude began growly with a side of judgy, but it wasn't long before the deeper, more real parts of him began to emerge, and holy shitake mushrooms, this man will be exploding ovaries all over the world. His love for his grandmother was a genuine swoon fest, and their banter was hilarious.
When Jude and Layla first meet, a spark ignites between them. On the outside, it was scathing looks and mischievous pranks, but on the inside, it was a burning soul deep connection.Every action and reaction between them fuels the fire, and a kiss sets the world on fire. They were clearly made for each other, not just physically, but also in the way they love those who are important to them. It's fierce and unyielding, and they both deserve to be loved that way.
Jude's grandmother adds a whole new level of sass and wit to the mix, and she has no qualms about bludgeoning people with blunt truths. I adored the relationship she built with Layla; it felt just as strong as Layla's relationship with Jude. Every interaction between them solidified the fact that Layla was meant to be their family. When I grow up, I want to be Sybil.
Knockout is an exemplary blend of everything I love about Prince's books: a strong sassy heroine, a swoony alpha hero, witty banter, a scattering of feels, all set in a world that makes you feel as if you're surrounded by friends as soon as you open the book, and a meddling grandma who's as feisty as she is eccentric.
Website | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram
Layla was sweet and sassy, with a dash of sarcasm. She was also highly determined, and her positive outlook added to her admirability. Instead of becoming bitter and resentful, she became loving and offered every opportunity to wrap her love around others. She had every reason to be bitter and a list of reasons that could have dimmed her sparkling personality, but instead of becoming bitter and resentful, she became loving and offered every opportunity to wrap her love around others.
Jude began growly with a side of judgy, but it wasn't long before the deeper, more real parts of him began to emerge, and holy shitake mushrooms, this man will be exploding ovaries all over the world. His love for his grandmother was a genuine swoon fest, and their banter was hilarious.
When Jude and Layla first meet, a spark ignites between them. On the outside, it was scathing looks and mischievous pranks, but on the inside, it was a burning soul deep connection.Every action and reaction between them fuels the fire, and a kiss sets the world on fire. They were clearly made for each other, not just physically, but also in the way they love those who are important to them. It's fierce and unyielding, and they both deserve to be loved that way.
Jude's grandmother adds a whole new level of sass and wit to the mix, and she has no qualms about bludgeoning people with blunt truths. I adored the relationship she built with Layla; it felt just as strong as Layla's relationship with Jude. Every interaction between them solidified the fact that Layla was meant to be their family. When I grow up, I want to be Sybil.
Knockout is an exemplary blend of everything I love about Prince's books: a strong sassy heroine, a swoony alpha hero, witty banter, a scattering of feels, all set in a world that makes you feel as if you're surrounded by friends as soon as you open the book, and a meddling grandma who's as feisty as she is eccentric.
Website | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram
November 16, 2021
For the second installment in the Whiskey Dolls series, a spin off of the Hope Valley Series, Price give her readers a lot more humor and I absolutely loved every minute of it.
Knockout is 100% an enemies to lovers story pack with a punch. Layla has just move into the apartment of her dreams, being on the waiting list for month and finally she is moving in. However after a stolen parking spot turns into being enemies with her upstairs neighbor Jude, these two take to the extremes to make each others lives miserable. From taking laundry out of the washer before is clean and living it on the floor, to porn in the mail for all to see, these two will stop at nothing to get back at each other. Until a blind date with each other turns the tables and now Jude and Layla see the real person behind the pranks.
I loved this story so much, the pranks that these two do on each other had me cracking up and especially with the other residents in the building making bets on them was hilarious. Layla is a Whiskey Dolls girl and her friends know about her feud with her neighbor and are thrilled when they find out her blind date is actually him. I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say I loved their banter and the realness when they finally have a conversation outside of the war they have going on.
As this is a romance story, the romance is fire, Jude is an alpha of all alphas and Layla gives him a heck of a challenge. They are a perfect part and know how to push buttons as well as have this smoking hot connection. There isn't a lot of secondary character time from the past book, which I didn't mind at all this time around, because Jude's Grandmother stole the show, she is 100% who I want to be when I get older. Let's just say this woman is someone who you don't want to mess with but will have your back no matter what as long as you are real with her.
In the end this is by far my favorite out of all the small town romances that Jessica Prince has written, I love them all but this one is my ultimate.
Knockout is 100% an enemies to lovers story pack with a punch. Layla has just move into the apartment of her dreams, being on the waiting list for month and finally she is moving in. However after a stolen parking spot turns into being enemies with her upstairs neighbor Jude, these two take to the extremes to make each others lives miserable. From taking laundry out of the washer before is clean and living it on the floor, to porn in the mail for all to see, these two will stop at nothing to get back at each other. Until a blind date with each other turns the tables and now Jude and Layla see the real person behind the pranks.
I loved this story so much, the pranks that these two do on each other had me cracking up and especially with the other residents in the building making bets on them was hilarious. Layla is a Whiskey Dolls girl and her friends know about her feud with her neighbor and are thrilled when they find out her blind date is actually him. I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say I loved their banter and the realness when they finally have a conversation outside of the war they have going on.
As this is a romance story, the romance is fire, Jude is an alpha of all alphas and Layla gives him a heck of a challenge. They are a perfect part and know how to push buttons as well as have this smoking hot connection. There isn't a lot of secondary character time from the past book, which I didn't mind at all this time around, because Jude's Grandmother stole the show, she is 100% who I want to be when I get older. Let's just say this woman is someone who you don't want to mess with but will have your back no matter what as long as you are real with her.
In the end this is by far my favorite out of all the small town romances that Jessica Prince has written, I love them all but this one is my ultimate.
November 15, 2021
4 Stars
I had high hopes for this book because I am a huge fan of this author. The tidbits that I had seen about this story had me hooked and I thought there was no way that it could lead me astray. I mean, come on, enemies to lovers? Sign me up. However, as much as I loved parts of this story, I struggled with other parts of it.
The story had potential. It had great moments and one-liners, especially from Jude's Grandma. That woman carried this story. Her spunk and sass were hilarious. I enjoyed her matchmaker ways. I loved the backstory of Layla and how she worked hard to be in the position of where she was at in life. I loved her giving back attitude. I loved how she showed love to people around her, especially, Marcus. Jude also had his moments. I loved the relationship that he had with his grandma. I liked Layla and Jude together when they were not judging the other and were actually interacting as adults. The chemistry between them was there from the get-go. However, the fighting and pranks they had going on were where I struggled which was surprising considering that the premise of enemies to lovers is what, initially, sold me on the story. It felt immature a lot of the time and that was frustrating because it had the potential to be so much more.
I, also, wanted more depth about Jude's family. It all felt so forced and the big pivotal scene with the family left me scratching my head. Even with my frustrations at the moments that I struggled with, there were many great parts to the story. I loved getting glimpses of Whiskey Dolls again and wished that there had been more moments of that considering that it is a big backdrop of this series. I loved seeing the friends come back and having moments to relish the lives of past characters, if only via a mention of previous series and characters. I live for the Easter Eggs since this author has given me some of my favorite book couples ever. Jude and Layla were likable characters, especially when they were interacting with Grams, who, as I mentioned, was a hoot.
While this book is not my favorite of this author, I still would consider it a solid book.
I had high hopes for this book because I am a huge fan of this author. The tidbits that I had seen about this story had me hooked and I thought there was no way that it could lead me astray. I mean, come on, enemies to lovers? Sign me up. However, as much as I loved parts of this story, I struggled with other parts of it.
The story had potential. It had great moments and one-liners, especially from Jude's Grandma. That woman carried this story. Her spunk and sass were hilarious. I enjoyed her matchmaker ways. I loved the backstory of Layla and how she worked hard to be in the position of where she was at in life. I loved her giving back attitude. I loved how she showed love to people around her, especially, Marcus. Jude also had his moments. I loved the relationship that he had with his grandma. I liked Layla and Jude together when they were not judging the other and were actually interacting as adults. The chemistry between them was there from the get-go. However, the fighting and pranks they had going on were where I struggled which was surprising considering that the premise of enemies to lovers is what, initially, sold me on the story. It felt immature a lot of the time and that was frustrating because it had the potential to be so much more.
I, also, wanted more depth about Jude's family. It all felt so forced and the big pivotal scene with the family left me scratching my head. Even with my frustrations at the moments that I struggled with, there were many great parts to the story. I loved getting glimpses of Whiskey Dolls again and wished that there had been more moments of that considering that it is a big backdrop of this series. I loved seeing the friends come back and having moments to relish the lives of past characters, if only via a mention of previous series and characters. I live for the Easter Eggs since this author has given me some of my favorite book couples ever. Jude and Layla were likable characters, especially when they were interacting with Grams, who, as I mentioned, was a hoot.
While this book is not my favorite of this author, I still would consider it a solid book.
November 17, 2021
*3.5-4 stars
This was definitely an entertaining book, and while I didn't love everything about it, it's still a good way to kill an afternoon.
So I'm just going to say right away what I hated: the fact that in the very first chapter we have long paragraphs of our hero having sex with another woman, and all the shaming our h gives this poor woman. I get that both Layla and Jude barley liked each other at this point, but I hate unnecessary scenes like this. Just why? All it did was make me not like the characters right off the bat -- the fact that our hero couldn't stay celibate for our heroine, and the trash talking she does to the other woman. I'm just so sick of it. Just because someone else is having sex with the man you're reluctantly crushing on doesn't make them a horrible person. It's 2021, let's stop all the damn slut shaming.
Now because of all that, I had to really fight to get into the storyline and become invested in the characters. Their back and forth bickering and pranks felt really childish (although I admittedly did chuckle at some points.) I didn't start truly connecting with these two until they went on their blind date together and truly dropped all the preconceived notions they had about each other. At that point the book flowed so effortlessly, and it was truly a great romance after that.. I just wish it hadn't taken so long to get to that point.
As far as the grandma, she was so freaking hilarious. She was definitely the highlight of the book for me by far. And I did really enjoy her relationship with Jude.
Overall this wasn't the best book from this author, but it's far from the worst.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
This was definitely an entertaining book, and while I didn't love everything about it, it's still a good way to kill an afternoon.
So I'm just going to say right away what I hated: the fact that in the very first chapter we have long paragraphs of our hero having sex with another woman, and all the shaming our h gives this poor woman. I get that both Layla and Jude barley liked each other at this point, but I hate unnecessary scenes like this. Just why? All it did was make me not like the characters right off the bat -- the fact that our hero couldn't stay celibate for our heroine, and the trash talking she does to the other woman. I'm just so sick of it. Just because someone else is having sex with the man you're reluctantly crushing on doesn't make them a horrible person. It's 2021, let's stop all the damn slut shaming.
Now because of all that, I had to really fight to get into the storyline and become invested in the characters. Their back and forth bickering and pranks felt really childish (although I admittedly did chuckle at some points.) I didn't start truly connecting with these two until they went on their blind date together and truly dropped all the preconceived notions they had about each other. At that point the book flowed so effortlessly, and it was truly a great romance after that.. I just wish it hadn't taken so long to get to that point.
As far as the grandma, she was so freaking hilarious. She was definitely the highlight of the book for me by far. And I did really enjoy her relationship with Jude.
Overall this wasn't the best book from this author, but it's far from the worst.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
November 12, 2021
Wow, Jude. Talk about an “open mouth, insert both feet” type of first impression! He definitely let his bitterness and resentment get the better of him when he first met Layla, which only served to start a war that was funny at times and cruel a couple of others. But when Jude realized just how wrong he was, things started to change. Well, that and an experience together that neither he nor Layla could have ever imagined.
While we had some enemies to lovers moments, we also had a lot of real here. Layla worked hard for everything she had in life and wasn’t afraid to continue working, nor was she going to shy away from all that she had to offer someone else in a similar situation. And as Jude saw all that made up Layla, he fell. Hard. And she fell just as hard because she knew that deep down, she and Jude weren’t all that different. They both wanted and deserved love. They both felt things oh so deeply. And they both saw the value in being a good person. Even better, they had each other’s backs when it truly counted.
I liked the hilarious moments this read had to offer, just as I liked the painful moments. And I especially enjoyed how Layla and Jude found their way together in this relationship, even when it may have seemed hopeless at times. And to have an older woman and teenage boy set things right just served as the icing on the cake! So now I look forward to what comes next in this series, because this author is certainly going with the flow the characters create and it’s working in a big way for me.
While we had some enemies to lovers moments, we also had a lot of real here. Layla worked hard for everything she had in life and wasn’t afraid to continue working, nor was she going to shy away from all that she had to offer someone else in a similar situation. And as Jude saw all that made up Layla, he fell. Hard. And she fell just as hard because she knew that deep down, she and Jude weren’t all that different. They both wanted and deserved love. They both felt things oh so deeply. And they both saw the value in being a good person. Even better, they had each other’s backs when it truly counted.
I liked the hilarious moments this read had to offer, just as I liked the painful moments. And I especially enjoyed how Layla and Jude found their way together in this relationship, even when it may have seemed hopeless at times. And to have an older woman and teenage boy set things right just served as the icing on the cake! So now I look forward to what comes next in this series, because this author is certainly going with the flow the characters create and it’s working in a big way for me.
November 15, 2021
This book exceeded my expectations (that were already crazy high).
Jessica Prince is without a doubt one of my favorite authors, she never fails to deliver the best stories. And I can't believe I'm saying this, but this book is a new favorite, definitely a Knockout (see what I did there?).
This book was marvelous. An enemies-to-lovers at its finest. Layla and Jude were so funny, I laughed out loud several times. Their antics were hilarious.
One can say there's a fine line between love and hate, and Knockout showed that flawlessly.
We could cut the tension between them with a knife. Their chemistry was insane and when they finally gave in to the feelings building up inside them, it was sinfully delicious.
Their hatred (if you can call it that; I think "wild love" is more suitable) was their fuel, their foreplay. It grew uncontrolably within and around them.
But its result wasn't destruction. It was actually so beautiful. One could think they brought the worst in each other. But in actuality, they brought the rawest, the purest, the most genuine in each other.
They were able to be real and honest without fear or resentment.
They loved passionately and cared with everything they had, they didn't hold anything back. The good and the bad, the docile and the wild, they took it all and they gave it all.
It was simply captivating.
Jessica Prince is without a doubt one of my favorite authors, she never fails to deliver the best stories. And I can't believe I'm saying this, but this book is a new favorite, definitely a Knockout (see what I did there?).
This book was marvelous. An enemies-to-lovers at its finest. Layla and Jude were so funny, I laughed out loud several times. Their antics were hilarious.
One can say there's a fine line between love and hate, and Knockout showed that flawlessly.
We could cut the tension between them with a knife. Their chemistry was insane and when they finally gave in to the feelings building up inside them, it was sinfully delicious.
Their hatred (if you can call it that; I think "wild love" is more suitable) was their fuel, their foreplay. It grew uncontrolably within and around them.
But its result wasn't destruction. It was actually so beautiful. One could think they brought the worst in each other. But in actuality, they brought the rawest, the purest, the most genuine in each other.
They were able to be real and honest without fear or resentment.
They loved passionately and cared with everything they had, they didn't hold anything back. The good and the bad, the docile and the wild, they took it all and they gave it all.
It was simply captivating.
November 23, 2021
This book is funny with Layla and Jude's fighting every damn time even when they are in love with each other. They both are crazy I would tell you that and add Jude's grandmother in to the mix making the book is beyond hilarious. Plus I really love these Whiskey Dolls girls, they have been through a lot but they are strong and capable of taking care of themselves and each other. Their friendships are beautiful and it is lovely to read their banters. So yeah, I love Layla. She has a good heart and her background makes me cry a little bit. I know that she is fine and comes out as a strong woman who can stand for herself but it still breaks my heart still. Aside from Layla's background, all dramas in this book are Jude's. I want to smack his head a few times at first for his presumption about Layla but after he knows the truth, he feels guilty and I think his possessiveness is hot, cute, and hilarious. And it's not just that, I also feel heartwarming for what Layla volunteers. Jude had been a grumpy man till he met Layla so I think he is lucky to have her by his side. The story has a lot of sense of humour and I enjoy reading it a lot. I consider this is one of the best enemies to lovers romantic comedy stories I have ever read.
November 16, 2021
I was looking forward to this but just read a sample.
"There was even one night, not too long after I moved in, when he’d brought a woman back to his apartment. I wasn’t sure if the sheetrock in the whole building was paper-thin, or if he’d intentionally made the effort of finding the most annoyingly loud woman in whatever dive bar he trolled, but the sounds of them having sex rang through my ceiling clear as a bell. The chick’s nasally pleas to God were enough to make my ears bleed, so I’d returned the favor by standing on my couch and beating at the ceiling with a broom handle for the entire length of it"
Grrrr
After they sort themselves out there is no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in form of ex fiance but no real issue.
Other man drama as a neighbor is interested in the heroine but nothing really comes of it.
My issue is every evil chauis so OTT. The whole book feels a bit OTT.
It's okay.
The grandmother is supposed to be funny but it was also OTT to me.
HEA.
Epilogue.
"There was even one night, not too long after I moved in, when he’d brought a woman back to his apartment. I wasn’t sure if the sheetrock in the whole building was paper-thin, or if he’d intentionally made the effort of finding the most annoyingly loud woman in whatever dive bar he trolled, but the sounds of them having sex rang through my ceiling clear as a bell. The chick’s nasally pleas to God were enough to make my ears bleed, so I’d returned the favor by standing on my couch and beating at the ceiling with a broom handle for the entire length of it"
Grrrr
After they sort themselves out there is no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in form of ex fiance but no real issue.
Other man drama as a neighbor is interested in the heroine but nothing really comes of it.
My issue is every evil chauis so OTT. The whole book feels a bit OTT.
It's okay.
The grandmother is supposed to be funny but it was also OTT to me.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2021
Knockout is the second book of the Whiskey Dolls Series by Jessica Prince...
and what can I say?
I just LOVE all her books and this one isn't an exception!
Layla hates Jude (her upstairs neighbour) and the feeling is mutual. Both prank each other a lot... but is it really hate? Or some kind of attraction?
I INSTANTLY fell in love with Layla and Jude!
My favourite romance trope is enemies-to-lovers and Knockout was such a good example for this trope!
Both hate each other so much but the sparks are flying all around them!
It's sooooo good! 😍
I got goose bumps EVERYWHERE when I experienced their story.
First because Layla and Jude are FABULOUS characters and second because they had so many hot love scenes. Phew! H-O-T!
Knockout is a great love story with some family drama, a lot of humour and rooomance!
Ha! And Gram (Jude's grandma) was hilarious! Brilliant!
I loved this book and can't wait for more! ❤
and what can I say?
I just LOVE all her books and this one isn't an exception!
Layla hates Jude (her upstairs neighbour) and the feeling is mutual. Both prank each other a lot... but is it really hate? Or some kind of attraction?
I INSTANTLY fell in love with Layla and Jude!
My favourite romance trope is enemies-to-lovers and Knockout was such a good example for this trope!
Both hate each other so much but the sparks are flying all around them!
It's sooooo good! 😍
I got goose bumps EVERYWHERE when I experienced their story.
First because Layla and Jude are FABULOUS characters and second because they had so many hot love scenes. Phew! H-O-T!
Knockout is a great love story with some family drama, a lot of humour and rooomance!
Ha! And Gram (Jude's grandma) was hilarious! Brilliant!
I loved this book and can't wait for more! ❤
November 18, 2021
Knockout is book 2 in Whiskey Dolls series by Jessica Prince. This is Layla and Jude’s story. Theirs is an enemies-to-lovers romance read. It started when Layla finally moves into her dream apartment and meets Jude. The hate was immediate and fireworks erupted between them to the point that I thought my Kindle would go up in flames at times. The pranks, the battle of wits, the chemistry between them, the emotions, the banter back and forth... oh yeah! Yet when they finally put down their verbal warfare , they finally find themselves opening up and emotionally connected. There's twists, turns and feels that brings the readers passion, angst, humor, romance and HEA.
My Rating: 4.5 stars **********
My Rating: 4.5 stars **********
November 15, 2021
Wow..just wow! What a streamy enemies to lovers book this is! Jessica prince what can I say...she knows how to draw a reader in. I'm loving this whiskey dolls series. Each and every female in these books is remarkable!
I loved Layla she is one of my favorite heroines that Jessica Prince has written yet. She's smart, sassy and vulnerable deep down. I wasn't quite expecting her backstory. It was heartbreaking and made her into the incredible woman she is.
Jude....oh Jude. He made me laugh because he truly was getting a kick out of torturing Layla. They may not seem to be the perfect couple but they absolutely are. Sybil had to have been my favorite character in this book. She is an absolute riot.
With every Jessica Prince book there is so much heart and soul. She's my automatic one click author. She's brilliant and incredible. This book is no different.
5 stars all day long
I received an arc for my opinion.
I loved Layla she is one of my favorite heroines that Jessica Prince has written yet. She's smart, sassy and vulnerable deep down. I wasn't quite expecting her backstory. It was heartbreaking and made her into the incredible woman she is.
Jude....oh Jude. He made me laugh because he truly was getting a kick out of torturing Layla. They may not seem to be the perfect couple but they absolutely are. Sybil had to have been my favorite character in this book. She is an absolute riot.
With every Jessica Prince book there is so much heart and soul. She's my automatic one click author. She's brilliant and incredible. This book is no different.
5 stars all day long
I received an arc for my opinion.
November 13, 2021
This enemies to lovers story was laugh out loud hilarious! Hands down, one of the funniest romantic comedies I have ever read! Once again, Jessica completely slays it with her hysterically creative commentary. I laughed my whole way through this story, and when I wasn’t laughing I was smiling. Huge. Such a refreshing read and exactly what I needed! I freaking adored Layla and Jude! ❤️ Not only were these two hilarious, their chemistry was 🥵🔥!
These two were the perfect match for one another. A complete hate thy neighbor vibe that I couldn’t get enough of. I loved the torture they both put one another through. And Gram’s just may be my new favorite side character EVER. And when Layla and Jude weren’t fighting and torturing each other, they were the absolute sweetest to one another. The perfect balance of comedy, spice and romance. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
These two were the perfect match for one another. A complete hate thy neighbor vibe that I couldn’t get enough of. I loved the torture they both put one another through. And Gram’s just may be my new favorite side character EVER. And when Layla and Jude weren’t fighting and torturing each other, they were the absolute sweetest to one another. The perfect balance of comedy, spice and romance. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 14, 2021
This book was full of all the feels of a rom com!! The brutal banter & push/pull was over the top crazy, yet amazing all at once. I truly couldn’t get enough of the hate/love between Jude & Layla. The chemistry was so hot, you will will be fanning yourself. I think these my be my favorite couple of this series & Jude is my favorite H by far. I loved the protective alpha-hole tendencies he had every time someone got close to Layla. Oh & grams was just a wonderful addition to these characters. She was extremely crazy & a delight all rolled up in the perfect grandma character. This book was so much more than I could have ever expected & was not ready for it to end. So much more that 5⭐️!!!
I highly recommend this book. Told in dual POV.
I highly recommend this book. Told in dual POV.
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