Wes Hawthorne has always been a man of few words. For him, everything is easier when he’s quiet. Content to speak only through his writing, he’s overjoyed when he gets picked for an internship to write the biography of one of the country’s wealthiest venture capitalists, and it’s exactly what he needs to start his future life and make his dad proud.
What he didn’t count on was another author working on the project with him. Sammy Faraday is everything Wes isn’t—spontaneous, exuberant, endlessly cheerful—and she seems to love nothing more than pushing him over the edge. Sometimes literally.
But the longer Wes works with Sammy, the more he starts to open up and find courage he’s never known. When feelings grow on both sides, the two of them make a pact to keep things professional (aka firmly in the friend zone). But with every passing day, Wes loses more of his heart and finds himself no longer chasing the safe and certain future he always thought he wanted, but something less so with the potential to be infinitely better.
All he has to do is convince Sammy that an uncharted future is better faced together. But to do that, he’ll have to find his ever-elusive voice or risk losing her at the end of the semester. No pressure.
While I probably should have read the other books in this series first, I enjoyed reading this on its own.
I was hooked right away when introduced to Wes and then to Sammy. Talk about opposites attract. More like oppositions complement each other.
I loved Wes or “Eric” as the main character. It’s not often that a main character is the quiet one. Wes struggles to speak. He has all his life. Because of that struggle, his ability to be a good listener is enhanced. I loved seeing how he could help so many in his quiet ways. I loved even more how Sammy helped him open up and become even more influential with a voice.
There were some heavy topics, but they were treated very well. I appreciated how much love the family had for each other, despite so many personal struggles and shortcomings they had.
Loved this one from start to finish. Probably one of the most hilarious first kiss stories ever.
I can’t believe how good this book was! I have been eagerly awaiting Wes’s book and it did not disappoint. First, let me just say that I have loved all of the other books in this series, so I had high expectations, but this one just blew me away! Love, Strictly Speaking is the the third book in Dana LeCheminant Terms of Inheritance series. Wes definitely needed his own book and it was just a perfect addition to the series. I loved reading about Wes and getting to know him. He was quiet and different from his siblings, so it was interesting to read from his perspective and learn more about him. Oh my goodness there was so much hidden in Wes behind his quietness. He saw people and he had a lot to say, he just didn't know how to say it. I just grew to love Wes as I read about him. He was struggling but he was also trying to reach out and find his voice. I don’t know what else to say, but I loved him! Sammy was so full of life. I loved her contrast to Wes. Sammy was a generally happy and talkative person but there was more hidden to her beneath smile. I enjoyed seeing Sammy from Wes’ perspective, it was quite sweet. At first, Sammy was a lot to deal with but as I read more I grew to understand her. She was deeper than she seemed and she was observant in her own way. Sammy had to learn to let others in and not try to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders. Oh, Sammy and Wes were so fun to read about! Their relationship was so sweet and I just loved reading about them interacting. They were able to understand each other and encourage each other. I was so invested in Sammy and Wes’s journey as they interacted with each other and those who were placed in their life. The plot was so engaging. It was interesting to read about Sammy and Wes as they wrote a biography about one of the country’s wealthiest venture capitalists. Their journey was so much fun and it really helped you get to know the characters. There were also a lot of interesting and unique side characters which really added to the story. And of course, there were camoes which I loved. Love, Strictly Speaking was a wonderful book and I would definitely recommend it! Everything was perfect and I can’t wait to see what LeCheminant writes next! Love, Strictly Speaking is a clean contemporary romance.
Content Warnings: mentions of anxiety, depression, infertility, and suicide
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Everyone, Wes may be my favorite Hawthorne sibling. 😍😍 He surprised me in a really good way. Dana is crazy talented at giving her characters depth and I felt for Wes. Right in the beginning, I was invested in him and felt the fish-out-of-water feeling like him. Oh, and I cried. Quite a bit. Lucas and Luke Hawthorne have a role in this story and it perfectly ties up all the loose ends.
If you don’t know, Wes has a hard time speaking. Not with a stutter, but more like he has a hard time actually speaking the words that come to mind. Because of that, people share their secrets with him because he literally can’t share them. I feel for him. The weight that those secrets come with would be exhausting. And yet, Wes cared about everyone. 😍😍 How can you not love a softy looking out for others?
One thing I appreciated about Wes was that he saw everything. Because he doesn’t often speak, he has the power to observe and see what others need. I appreciated hearing about the impact Wes had on others from their own experiences. It just shows you never know who might need a listening ear.
There are some heavy topics in this book. Like suicide (briefly mentioned), anxiety, infertility, and death. I cried a lot but I absolutely loved this book. It was a good cry where I felt better after bawling my eyes out. I’ve been a bit emotional lately, so you might not cry. 🙈🙈
I’ve loved reading this series by Dana LeCheminant. Every one of her characters seems to jump off the page. As though they are real people that you know. This book can stand on it’s own. But I would read each of the books in this series, to really get the full picture of all of the characters.
Wes is the character in the Hawthorne family that I’ve been most curious about. He is the one who is always quiet in the corner. It was so great getting to learn a bit about him and who he is. And it was fun to see him open up a little bit and show the reader who he truly is. He is a great guy. A loyal and true friend.
Sammy is the young woman who gets his attention. Wes and Sammy are supposed to write a biography together. And he’s not sure how to even talk with her. I loved the way Sammy, little by little, is able to draw Wes out. And I loved the way he notices what she needs and is able to help her in little ways. These two are so perfect for each other.
I’m so sad to see the end of this series. But so glad that I can go back and read these whenever I need to get my Hawthorne family fix.
I was sent an e-copy of Love, Strictly Speaking as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
Dana never ceases to amaze me with her writing abilities! The Terms of Inheritance series has been such a favorite of mine and I have been waiting for Wes’ story!! ⠀ Wes has been a favorite character of mine with his quiet ways. I knew there was a story waiting to be told and it was worth the wait!! Sammy is such a spunky character with zero filter and I love how she slowly draws out Wes’ personality with her bright, upbeat personality!
There are so many great things happening in this book! Sammy and Wes are thrown together so much that it creates great tension and loads of entertainment! ⠀ There are a few heavy topics discussed in this book, but all tactfully done without going into much detail or on page explanations. Some that could be possible trigger warnings are loss of close family members, cancer, suicide, and infertility. ⠀ This is book 4 in this series and while it could be read as a stand alone I recommend reading them all, and in order! ⠀ Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Ever since meeting Wes I have eagerly anticipated his story. He is the youngest of the Hawthorne bunch and may be the least outspoken, but he is literally the glue to this family. Maybe it had to do with being the youngest myself or my love of those book heroes who can't see their worth, but I love Wes. And I love Sammy for how she sees him, when he is trying to hide. I truly enjoyed how these two broken characters came together to find something absolutely beautiful in one another. This story has so much heart and gave me all the feels and though I don't enjoy crying, if a book makes me cry I know it is a good one, because it reached in and touched a place in my heart. That is what this story did! Thanks for an amazing read Dana LeCheminant! I can't wait for what you come out with next!! Highly recommend this book and series for anyone who has a soft spot for broken heroes finding love!!!
A fantastic and heartwarming end to a beautiful family saga, this book really tugged hard at my heartstrings and while there were many a tear shed, I smiled so much and feel so happy having finished this book and series. Wes and Sammy had wonderful chemistry and I really liked how Wes wanted to speak more on his own, but Sammy really gave him the motivation and faith in himself to do so. I loved Bobby and just the realness of their situations. While this can be read as a standalone, there were so many moments that were much more emotionally impactful for me because I knew the backstories of Wes's siblings. I highly recommend the entire series. This is a clean contemporary romance. I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Well, actually, since it connects to the Simple Love Story series, this is technically the end of two series encompassing 13 books and novellas...all of which I have read...and all of which have made me fall in love with the Davenport and Hawthorne families.
But this wasn't just the wrap-up of the series.
It was mainly Wes Hawthorne's story as he tries to find his way and find his voice. Sammy was a strong personality for me at first but I ended up loving her. She and Wes were perfect for each other and I loved how they evened each other out and how she was such an integral part of Wes changing and growing.
Lots of great side characters and lots of sweet romance. There were some serious topics touched on (fertility, cancer, death of family member) but all done while making the book feel hopeful rather than heavy.
It is so hard to say good-bye to these characters that I love but I am happy that their stories are all sitting on my favorites shelf for me to pick up and re-read anytime that I want.
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
I’ve been looking forward to Wes’ story SO MUCH! And it did not disappoint!
Wes has always been the quiet one. Barely speaking even to his family. He wants to become a writer and when an opportunity arises to apply for an internship with one of the most influential business women in the nation, writing her biography and launching himself into the world as an author, he decides to go with his gut and give it a try.
Sammy Faraday, bright, vibrant, full of energy and an amazing ability to talk to and befriend everyone, is just trying to get through college so she can peruse writing as a career. Something she loves to do. She also applies for the internship and this is where our story really gets started!
Both Wes and Sammy are chosen for the coveted internship and must spend 3 months working together and with the woman they will be gathering information about.
Sammy sees Wes, truly sees him. And little by little breaks down his walls and gets him to come out of his shell. As their friendship grows, something deeper develops and it is such a beautiful thing! They really compliment each other and make each other stronger. And Sammy becomes an expert at throwing food… and Wes can run/slam into pretty much anything like a pro 😂. And their first kiss scene…. YES YES YES! So good!
While the main storyline was focused on Wes and Sammy and their growing love, this book in particular had a lot of the whole family involved too. And seeing as it is the conclusion to a series, it was definitely appropriate and very well done. There were a lot of heavy themes throughout which added to the depth in a really good way. The characters are relatable and endearing. And though it is sad to be saying goodbye to this family, it was the best possible conclusion! The epilogue is ACE! All you could have wanted for an ending.
Also, look out for some fun cameos as well! You won’t be disappointed!
Well done Dana on another fantastic series! I’m so excited for any new projects you have up your sleeve!
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this story. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I've been waiting for Wes' story for a long time, as we've only seen glimpses of him in the previous books about his brothers and sister. Wes is the quietest of the Hawthorne siblings but it's not because he doesn't have anything to say. He struggles with how to say things because he doesn't want to say the wrong thing. Enter Sammy Faraday, who's not afraid to speak her mind or ask questions.
Sammy is the exact opposite of Wes. He's quiet--to say she's not quiet is an understatement. He's careful and thinks things through, sometimes too much--she's impulsive and sometimes seems to fly by the seat of her pants. Wes' personality is fairly even-keeled--Sammy is pretty bubbly. These two opposite personalities are thrown together when they're both chosen for the same internship.
I've loved this series and Wes and Sammy's story is the perfect ending to the series. Sammy helps Wes find his voice and he's able to help her because he's good at seeing what others need. Finding out about why Wes is so quiet was heartbreaking at times. I loved that we got to see memories of him and his dad who was the only person Wes felt he could talk to. I liked the setting of the hotel and all the characters and their interactions with Wes and Sammy. I liked that we were able to catch up with the other members of the Hawthorne family. And the ending? I'm sad to see the series end but I LOVE the ending of this book.
You could probably read this as a standalone but I suggest you read the others first. I received a complimentary copy to review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This book took me by surprise! I was not expecting such a masterpiece.
First of all, I loved having Wes' POV throughout the whole story. It felt so refreshing! I loved that he was flawed, shy, and so cute💞. He was such a good listener, he observed and analyzed everything around him. I loved that although he had trouble speaking, he never missed being assertive.
I was so happy to see him develop his strength and find his voice. I loved how he helped and stepped up when needed. Also, the fact that he was an overthinker that followed his gut and had stuff he needed to work through. His family was awesome! They are so perfectly imperfect. I loved the impact Wes had on their lives.
I wanted the story to move faster but each chapter had exactly what needed to be filled from the plot. It was so well written. I loved Sammy as the heroine. She had such spark for life and the fact that she also needed to work on certain aspects of her life, made her more real. I loved how they helped each other become better versions of themselves. This couple was lovely💞
This book was amazing. How it was wrapped up👌🏻 You have to check it out now!
🍁🍁 * I was kindly gifted an ARC from the author. This doesn't influence in any form my review/opinion of the book*
I’m so excited for 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘚𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘚𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 by the fabulous Dana LeCheminant to be released to the world. I highly recommend this sweet story of how Wes Hawthorne and Sammy Faraday meet and fall in love. Wes is not your typical hero—he is quiet and unsure of himself. He isn’t comfortable touching others much less speaking to others. The story is told from his point of view, so you get an honest account of all his feelings and thoughts regarding his life and his relationship with his family and Sammy. I found the story unique in the romance genre because the reader doesn’t get the heroine’s perspective too. I loved it! Sammy is the totally opposite of Wes. She is spunky, bold, and not afraid to speak up and speak her mind. Wes isn’t sure what to think of Sammy. He feels drawn to her, but he also isn’t sure he should. As a reader, I was rooting for Wes to find his voice and for Sammy to kiss Wes instead of throwing food at him (IYKYK). This book is part of the Terms of Inheritance series, but it can be read as a standalone. I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
Love Strictly Speaking was released a little over a month ago. And since then I have added all of the other books in the series to my TBR list. But even though this book is number four in the series, it doesn't make you feel like you are missing out on anything. quite the opposite. It leaves you craving more.
Wes Hawthorne is a man who says few words. He better expresses himself while writing. Sammy Faraday is the opposite. She is daring, talkative, and so happy. She is a writer as well. So when they both are chosen to work together on a biography for a wealthy venture capitalist , their lives start changing.
The longer they work together, the more Wes is able to open up to Sammy. But when feelings start growing between the two of them, they decide to "friend zone" each other until the end of the semester when their internship is up. Which is hard for them both.
I love how much growth both characters went through. Sometimes you have to fight through your barriers that you've placed before you, to get what you want. And that is something that Wes did. I can't wait to read the other books in this series. I believe they will all compliment each other well.
This one is my favorite out of the books in the Term of Inheritance series. I feel like Wes has had to make the most changes in his life and really had to come out of his comfort zone and grow. Sammy has been so influential in helping him to come out of his shell and feel like he really has something to say and that what he has to say is important.
I really enjoyed how it really is an opposites attract story as well. Sammy is loud, outgoing and speaks her mind. You never are really left wondering what she is thinking. As to Wes who is so quiet, doesn't like being the center of attention and really struggles sharing what he is thinking. Sammy truly helps him but he also comes to meet others that he doesn't have a hard time talking to and sharing what he is thinking.
I have loved getting to know all the siblings in each of the books. They each are so different but they work together as a family and they have a really strong bond. Those that they marry are really awesome for each personality and they just seem to fit right in with the family.
This was my first book by Dana LeCheminant, and it won’t be my last! I loved Wes and Sammy, and they had an adorable relationship. The story is told from Wes’ point of view, and I loved hearing all of his thoughts. He finds it so hard to speak, and heart was so invested in his story and how he finds his place, and his voice. Sammy was a fireball, and not just because of her red hair! She was optimistic and determined, and so intrigued by quiet but intuitive Wes. I love how the book brought out real struggles, and how are first appearances can be deceiving. The wonderful cast of side characters really brought the story to life as well. Bobby and Andy were wonderful! And Orchard Hotel was vividly described it was almost a character as well. I love Wes’ family and can’t wait to go and read the earlier books in the series! If your looking for a clean, funny, and thoughtful story, go grab this one!
Love Strictly Speaking is book 4 in the Terms of Inheritance series. These books can be read alone, out of order or as a series. Love Strictly Speaking reads as a light, fun, romance with engaging and dynamic characters that bring unique experiences and outlooks to the overall plot. The author does an excellent job at introducing the characters within the book and setting up the scenes to be enjoyable and memorable. The story pace moves along quickly, and I liked that through the characters you discover a lesson on finding your voice and realizing what you bring to the world. Often, I feel like contemporary romance is just about the romance. In this book, you can also gain insight what the characters' experiences mean to you. This is a clean romance.
Please note I was given a free e-book to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
This was a great book that dealt with a lot of heavy topics. I thought the plot of the book was really fun. Two writers writing a biography together about a famous business woman. Wes was a very interesting character to read this book through. He struggles with speaking. Not the actual talking part, he just is a quiet soul. Because he is so quite, he is a very good observer and listener. I know people like this, so it was fun to get his perspective on life and things. It helped me understand the quiet people in my life more. And Sammy was the opposite. So full of life and bubbly. They complimented each other very well. Their friendship was fun to read about. All the characters grew so much. This is the last book in the series, but you can read as a stand alone. I’ve never read the other ones.
Book Review: Love, Strictly Speaking by Dana LeCheminant . I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own. . Dana is a new to me author, but after reading this book I will definitely be reading more! This book immediately drew me in because it is written in single POV, but instead of the heroine’s POV it’s the hero’s! I loved that so much! Wes is quiet and reserved, but in his head (and sometimes out loud) he is so funny! We get a look into his mind as he navigates a lot of twists and turns 4 years after his father’s death. Our heroine, Sammy, is so lovable and vivacious! It is easy to love her right along with Wes. This is definitely a winner of a book! Also, the epilogue had my heart in a puddle! 🥰 . My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -clean romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Sometimes a book ends and you’re disappointed with the ending. Not the case here! “Love, Strictly Speaking” had a perfect ending! It not only perfectly wrapped up this story but the whole “Terms of Inheritance” series. At first one of the main characters Sammy got on my nerves. As her character developed she grew on me and it was nice to see her grow as a person. Wes kind of fascinated me. I may not say much to strangers but to those around me I have a lot to say. It was fascinating for me to get the inner dialogue of someone who doesn’t say much on the outside. It made for a really good dependable character in my opinion. That great listener that everyone wants to know.
I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review. This series is amazing. This story is about the youngest member of a family who is trying to discover what his purpose I life is. When their father passed away all the siblings were given terms they had to meet in order to earn their inheritance. Figuring out and meeting those teams change the lives of not only them but others that they meet. I would recommend this entire series to anyone who enjoys great story lines, amazing characters and HEA with some interesting twists and turns along the way. ❤ 👍👍📚
I enjoyed this book. There were a few times when I felt like things with Wes' family could've been less vague, which eventually led me to wonder if there were previous books about other family members. Turns out I was right and this is the 4th book in the series, lol. This book had a very unique storyline with multifaceted, well-written characters and many gems of wisdom shared.
I love how full and rich this novel is. Wes and Sammy are so much fun! Each of their interactions is hilarious and then lovely and so deep. I love that Dana LeCheminant touched on so many mental and emotional struggles that people face in a very real way. Loved this book! Happy and funny, but so deep and touching, too. ❤️
This story is tender and sweet. There are no chance meetings or coincidences in life. We meet for a moment or a lifetime but each encounter allows us to make a difference in someone’s life. Wes communicates his love through selfless acts of love, listening and watching. Sammy bursts into his life like a comet and nothing will ever be the same.
I loved this novel. It was incredible and I loved taking this journey with these characters. I loved the inclusion of so many past loved ones too. A wonderful story with some great extras.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved this book. I got so immersed in the characters and their world I could hardly put it down. It had a lot of depth and touched on some difficult topics without dwelling on them and taking away from the heart and humor in the story.
I love this series so much! Wes’ story is by far my favorite! For someone who doesn’t say very much, his story is poignant and life changing. It was wonderful watching his story unfold and the growth and change we get to experience right alongside him. Sammy was a fun and bubbly breath of fresh air. Talk about opposites, Wes and Sammy could not have been further apart. But they were so good for each other. Bobby was a beautiful shining light and her character had an impact on the story that was indelible. The sense of family and loyalty the Hawthornes portray is what makes me continue reading these books. The world building is spot on and each character feels real. Contemporary romance fans will love the wit and banter from Love, Strictly Speaking. I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
LOVED this book! Its not very often that we get to read a romance entirely from the male's perspective. In fact, I think this might be the first one I've read. Dana LeCheminant absolutely delivered with this book. I haven't read any of the books in the series besides this one, and I didn't feel lost at all. A true stand alone novel! I hope to make time to read the rest of the series soon.
Here are a few things that I loved: - Wes' connection to his Dad - Finding his voice - A generous venture capitalist - Matchmaking
Disclosure Statement: I read this book on Kindle Unlimited.