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Smartasses
Because what's hotter than a sexy nerd?
Twelve of your favorite Rom Com authors bring you a new anthology
celebrating geeking out and falling in love.
Featuring Smartass Stories by:
Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn
Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
Central Park by Jana Aston
The Doctor and the Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate
What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
Comic-Compilations Krystyna Allyn
Pash, no Rash by Penny Reid
Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix
Twelve of your favorite Rom Com authors bring you a new anthology
celebrating geeking out and falling in love.
Featuring Smartass Stories by:
Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn
Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
Central Park by Jana Aston
The Doctor and the Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate
What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
Comic-Compilations Krystyna Allyn
Pash, no Rash by Penny Reid
Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix
927 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2022
459 people are currently reading
5421 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
August 23, 2022
Just finished Kayley Loring's story and there's this big smile on my face. So freaking good!
Hers is a feel-good, short, sexy, Christmas-y story... and it has a dog.
Full review coming as soon as I get the chance to read a few more of these!
Hers is a feel-good, short, sexy, Christmas-y story... and it has a dog.
Full review coming as soon as I get the chance to read a few more of these!
August 26, 2022
1. Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So good! Wish it was a standard length.
2. Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Felt rushed by the end. Could have used less time on random characters and storylines knowing it’s a novella.
3. Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Felt too smushed together and had a few inconsistencies but it was enjoyable for what it was.
4. Central Park by Jana Aston ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So cute. Loved both leads and story.
5. The Doctor and The Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sweet and cute. What I’ve come to expect from the writer.
6. What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I didn’t like how it just kinda, fizzed to a stop. No doubt setting up for a series of course but I was just starting to enjoy the story.
7. There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The best part was the dogs strange French POV in the epilogue.
8. Comic-Complications by Krystyna Allyn ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The heroine was horrible throughout but the story itself was fun.
9. Pash No Rash by Penny Reid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Never disappointed in Miss Penny’s writing. A great start to something that could have been more.
10. Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This had a lot of “pick-me” energy and both H and h talked badly about woman they deemed unworthy. Can’t give this more then three stars.
11. The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So sweet and kindly written. Loved that this showed how honesty is what can heal a relationship. The representation was also lovely.
12. Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Both characters were relatable and cute. A fast fun read.
So good! Wish it was a standard length.
2. Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Felt rushed by the end. Could have used less time on random characters and storylines knowing it’s a novella.
3. Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Felt too smushed together and had a few inconsistencies but it was enjoyable for what it was.
4. Central Park by Jana Aston ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So cute. Loved both leads and story.
5. The Doctor and The Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sweet and cute. What I’ve come to expect from the writer.
6. What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I didn’t like how it just kinda, fizzed to a stop. No doubt setting up for a series of course but I was just starting to enjoy the story.
7. There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The best part was the dogs strange French POV in the epilogue.
8. Comic-Complications by Krystyna Allyn ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The heroine was horrible throughout but the story itself was fun.
9. Pash No Rash by Penny Reid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Never disappointed in Miss Penny’s writing. A great start to something that could have been more.
10. Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This had a lot of “pick-me” energy and both H and h talked badly about woman they deemed unworthy. Can’t give this more then three stars.
11. The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So sweet and kindly written. Loved that this showed how honesty is what can heal a relationship. The representation was also lovely.
12. Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Both characters were relatable and cute. A fast fun read.
August 15, 2022
- Pash, no rash by Penny Reid
I want more! The whole–very short–story is basically a conversation between the main characters, and the way it derails is enticing.
We discover Elias through Audrey’s point of view, and though she finds him interesting, he also terrifies her. But alcohol and Elias’s charm are going to chip away at her resistance.
Audrey’s general awkwardness and Elias’s discreet admiration are quite compelling. They have some intense moments in such a short time, it’s sexy without any sexy times. The writing style is punchy and energetic, and Audrey’s mind is definitely a weird place to be.
It’s a funny short read that made me want to see more of Elias and Audrey. And read more of the author.
- There is also a dog by Kayley Loring
Maybe it’s because it’s so short, but I felt like I understood more of the author’s style and talent here.
It’s a Hallmark movie set up: the city lady spending the holidays in a cabin, and meeting with the small town’s ophtalmologist. There’s an instant attraction… even before they see each other for the first time! Sexiness ensues.
What blew me away was the way the author gave each character their own voice. The words, the pace, the thoughts behind the actions… They were different and very consistent with the characters. In such a short time, Jillian and Mitchell became real. The author even manages to give them some backstory to explain their motivations. I connected with them instantly.
There wasn’t much to the story: some virtual seduction, an awkward meeting, a strong attraction, and some sexy times. There was also some humor, and a cameo from another book by the author. It was like a reader’s digest version of the author.
- The runaway bride by Sonali Dev
The story I wasn’t expecting. I’m a sucker for estranged couples, and this story was close enough that I enjoyed it a lot.
Nisha is supposed to marry her lifelong love, Neel, the next day, but she gets cold feet when she discovers that he’s met with his ex.
I loved all the references to Indian culture. Traditions, clothes, family dynamics… Even though it felt exotic since I know nothing about that culture in the first place, it ended up feeling familiar too because it’s described in great details.
It was a journey of self discovery for Nisha, who suddenly sees her life with someone else’s perspective–Neel’s–that changes everything.
There’s some misleading event that felt incongruous at the beginning, and I’m not sure how I feel about it. But I enjoyed the rest of the story–that I won’t give away.
- Not just a crush by Helena Hunting
It might be my less favorite of all four. Not that it wasn’t good–fun and hot, I’m all for that–but it was riddled with inconsistencies and plot holes. Clothes changed, things not said were known, others were forgotten. But if you come for just the fun and hot, you won’t be disappointed.
Dahlia and Conrad unknowingly shared a crush on each other in high school, and they find themselves stranded in a cabin. There’s a bear, an uncooperative fire, and even a sex toy.
The sexy klutzy nerd and the ex-jock mountain man, what an unexpected couple. And really, besides their childhood crush and their current attraction for each other, they don’t share much. At least not enough to make it a happily ever after. You’ll have to trust the author about that.
But as a hot opposites attract with a couple of funny moments and some cuteness thrown in, it isn’t a bad read.
I want more! The whole–very short–story is basically a conversation between the main characters, and the way it derails is enticing.
We discover Elias through Audrey’s point of view, and though she finds him interesting, he also terrifies her. But alcohol and Elias’s charm are going to chip away at her resistance.
Audrey’s general awkwardness and Elias’s discreet admiration are quite compelling. They have some intense moments in such a short time, it’s sexy without any sexy times. The writing style is punchy and energetic, and Audrey’s mind is definitely a weird place to be.
It’s a funny short read that made me want to see more of Elias and Audrey. And read more of the author.
- There is also a dog by Kayley Loring
Maybe it’s because it’s so short, but I felt like I understood more of the author’s style and talent here.
It’s a Hallmark movie set up: the city lady spending the holidays in a cabin, and meeting with the small town’s ophtalmologist. There’s an instant attraction… even before they see each other for the first time! Sexiness ensues.
What blew me away was the way the author gave each character their own voice. The words, the pace, the thoughts behind the actions… They were different and very consistent with the characters. In such a short time, Jillian and Mitchell became real. The author even manages to give them some backstory to explain their motivations. I connected with them instantly.
There wasn’t much to the story: some virtual seduction, an awkward meeting, a strong attraction, and some sexy times. There was also some humor, and a cameo from another book by the author. It was like a reader’s digest version of the author.
- The runaway bride by Sonali Dev
The story I wasn’t expecting. I’m a sucker for estranged couples, and this story was close enough that I enjoyed it a lot.
Nisha is supposed to marry her lifelong love, Neel, the next day, but she gets cold feet when she discovers that he’s met with his ex.
I loved all the references to Indian culture. Traditions, clothes, family dynamics… Even though it felt exotic since I know nothing about that culture in the first place, it ended up feeling familiar too because it’s described in great details.
It was a journey of self discovery for Nisha, who suddenly sees her life with someone else’s perspective–Neel’s–that changes everything.
There’s some misleading event that felt incongruous at the beginning, and I’m not sure how I feel about it. But I enjoyed the rest of the story–that I won’t give away.
- Not just a crush by Helena Hunting
It might be my less favorite of all four. Not that it wasn’t good–fun and hot, I’m all for that–but it was riddled with inconsistencies and plot holes. Clothes changed, things not said were known, others were forgotten. But if you come for just the fun and hot, you won’t be disappointed.
Dahlia and Conrad unknowingly shared a crush on each other in high school, and they find themselves stranded in a cabin. There’s a bear, an uncooperative fire, and even a sex toy.
The sexy klutzy nerd and the ex-jock mountain man, what an unexpected couple. And really, besides their childhood crush and their current attraction for each other, they don’t share much. At least not enough to make it a happily ever after. You’ll have to trust the author about that.
But as a hot opposites attract with a couple of funny moments and some cuteness thrown in, it isn’t a bad read.
August 16, 2022
3.5-4 stars. Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology is a cute anthology with each story featuring a hot nerd. The anthology has stories from some of my favorite authors, including Avery Flynn, Erin Mallon, Helena Hunting, Jana Aston, Jiffy Kate, Karen Grey, Kayley Loring, Krystyna Allyn, Penny Reid, Sara Ney, Sonali Dev, and Susannah Nix. There were many stories I really enjoyed in this anthology and a few I did not like as much. But, overall, I enjoyed this anthology. Here are my thoughts on the stories in this fun anthology:
Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn: 3.5 stars. This was a cute story, but it felt a little long and I didn't feel much chemistry.
Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon: 2 stars. This story was not my favorite for many reasons, including that it was G rated, cheesy, and kind of bizarre.
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting: 3.75 stars. This was really cute and hot. I just wanted more. I felt the ending to be kind of abrupt.
Central Park by Jana Aston: 4 stars. Aww, super cute! One of my favorites from the book. I was left wanting much more and felt the ending was a little abrupt. I would love if this was expanded into a full book.
The Doctor and the Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate: 3.5 stars. This story was entertaining but a little dry. I liked the story but found the writing style hard to connect with. Still it had a cute ending.
What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey: 3.25 stars. This had a very cute and off the wall premise. But I found it to be too open ended, was fade to black, and there was not much chemistry.
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring: 3.5-3.75 stars. This was a cute story. I did find it a little short and I would have liked the epilogue to not be in the dog's POV. But still enjoyable.
Comic-Compilations by Krystyna Allen: DNF. Unfortunately, this story was just not for me.
Pash No Rash by Penny Reid: 2.5 stars. This was not a bad premise, but it was really just one short, open-ended scene and not really a short story.
Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney: 3.25 stars. This was not a bad story, but the hero was very timid and I found that a turn off. The heroine had to pursue him and I felt they had no chemistry.
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev: 4 stars. This was really good. Definitely my favorite from the anthology and very well-written. I just wish the drama had not been OW drama about the hero's ex and hurting the heroine's self esteem and feelings so much.
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix: 3.75 stars. This was a sweet and cute story. The hero had shy guy style and I was digging it.
Overall, I enjoyed this anthology and found it entertaining. Who doesn't love a hot nerd!? I enjoyed the stories and found some new authors!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn: 3.5 stars. This was a cute story, but it felt a little long and I didn't feel much chemistry.
Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon: 2 stars. This story was not my favorite for many reasons, including that it was G rated, cheesy, and kind of bizarre.
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting: 3.75 stars. This was really cute and hot. I just wanted more. I felt the ending to be kind of abrupt.
Central Park by Jana Aston: 4 stars. Aww, super cute! One of my favorites from the book. I was left wanting much more and felt the ending was a little abrupt. I would love if this was expanded into a full book.
The Doctor and the Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate: 3.5 stars. This story was entertaining but a little dry. I liked the story but found the writing style hard to connect with. Still it had a cute ending.
What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey: 3.25 stars. This had a very cute and off the wall premise. But I found it to be too open ended, was fade to black, and there was not much chemistry.
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring: 3.5-3.75 stars. This was a cute story. I did find it a little short and I would have liked the epilogue to not be in the dog's POV. But still enjoyable.
Comic-Compilations by Krystyna Allen: DNF. Unfortunately, this story was just not for me.
Pash No Rash by Penny Reid: 2.5 stars. This was not a bad premise, but it was really just one short, open-ended scene and not really a short story.
Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney: 3.25 stars. This was not a bad story, but the hero was very timid and I found that a turn off. The heroine had to pursue him and I felt they had no chemistry.
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev: 4 stars. This was really good. Definitely my favorite from the anthology and very well-written. I just wish the drama had not been OW drama about the hero's ex and hurting the heroine's self esteem and feelings so much.
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix: 3.75 stars. This was a sweet and cute story. The hero had shy guy style and I was digging it.
Overall, I enjoyed this anthology and found it entertaining. Who doesn't love a hot nerd!? I enjoyed the stories and found some new authors!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
August 16, 2022
Oh my gosh! As a self-identified nerd-girl, I loved everything about this collection. There’s sweet and there’s spicy, from deeply emotional to laugh-out-loud funny. There’s something in here for just about every geeky fantasy. Many of these stories were by authors I already know and love, but I’ve also found several that are about to become new favorites and my one-click finger is feeling a little itchy to add to my library and already overburdened to-read shelf. I had so much fun, I want to dive back in and do it all over again.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Social Butterfly PR.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Social Butterfly PR.
September 7, 2022
Well I should have started reading a little earlier because I didn’t have time to get through all of the stories, but I can tell you which ones so far are my favorites!
First was the Avery Flynn story which I’d actually already read and loved, Attracting Aubrey, you can read my review of it on my blog post.
Next was Erin Mallon’s story. Now, I love her quirky sense of humor, but occasionally it gets a little bit out there even for me. Showmancing the Bone had some really funny spots and some great emotion, but also a few parts that dragged a little for me to slug through.
The excerpt above is from the next story in the book by Helena Hunting. Of course I adored this story! I disagreed with the device she talked about as it did absolutely nothing for me when I tried it. But I loved the fun talk of beard rides, and the usual steam and humor that Hunting’s stories always bring.
Next was Jana Aston’s story, Central Park. And oh my gosh was this story of a fake nanny so hilarious! Not only that it had so many things that resonated with me. While the heroine had the daydream of a CEO walking through the library where she worked and it being a meet-cute, my similar fantasy was from my bookstore job. As you don’t have a lot of CEOs walking through a school library, lol. Once again the character also mentioned what was going to be her favorite part of the library job and all I could think was oh how I wish that was part of my job, or that I actually got time during my job to do that anyway. I was reading this at work on my lunch break, and giggling out loud.
The Jiffy Kate story, The Doctor and the Dungeon Master was also really good, and I enjoyed it for the extra bonus of it being in New Orleans and getting to kind of revisit some of the favorite spots from their French Quarter Collection that I’ve listened to all but the last one so far!
Karen’s Grey story was next, What Happens in Carolina, and it really hit the spot in a similar way as the Jiffy Kate story, but especially because I’d just finished listening to the audiobook You Get What You Give. In that story we met for a short moment or two during the hurricane the couple that was the main characters in this fun story. But it was fun to see the characters from the audiobook I’d listened to from different perspectives as well.
This was my first Kayley Loring story and I’m sure now that it won’t be my last! It had some hilarious moments, as well as very steamy moments. And I loved how she just wanted the dog! Also the chapter at the end from the dog’s point of view was perfect.
Another first time author for me was Krystyna Allyn. And her story was good, loved the Comicon aspect. Although I’m not sure what self-respecting rom-com heroine actually doesn’t like sex toys? However I loved the story and hope to read more by this author in the future as well!
The Penny Reid story was fun too. Of course I need to finish it and the last 3 stories after it, but they are by Sara Ney, Sonali Dev, and Susannah Nix, all authors I know and love, so I’m sure they will be just as good!
First was the Avery Flynn story which I’d actually already read and loved, Attracting Aubrey, you can read my review of it on my blog post.
Next was Erin Mallon’s story. Now, I love her quirky sense of humor, but occasionally it gets a little bit out there even for me. Showmancing the Bone had some really funny spots and some great emotion, but also a few parts that dragged a little for me to slug through.
The excerpt above is from the next story in the book by Helena Hunting. Of course I adored this story! I disagreed with the device she talked about as it did absolutely nothing for me when I tried it. But I loved the fun talk of beard rides, and the usual steam and humor that Hunting’s stories always bring.
Next was Jana Aston’s story, Central Park. And oh my gosh was this story of a fake nanny so hilarious! Not only that it had so many things that resonated with me. While the heroine had the daydream of a CEO walking through the library where she worked and it being a meet-cute, my similar fantasy was from my bookstore job. As you don’t have a lot of CEOs walking through a school library, lol. Once again the character also mentioned what was going to be her favorite part of the library job and all I could think was oh how I wish that was part of my job, or that I actually got time during my job to do that anyway. I was reading this at work on my lunch break, and giggling out loud.
The Jiffy Kate story, The Doctor and the Dungeon Master was also really good, and I enjoyed it for the extra bonus of it being in New Orleans and getting to kind of revisit some of the favorite spots from their French Quarter Collection that I’ve listened to all but the last one so far!
Karen’s Grey story was next, What Happens in Carolina, and it really hit the spot in a similar way as the Jiffy Kate story, but especially because I’d just finished listening to the audiobook You Get What You Give. In that story we met for a short moment or two during the hurricane the couple that was the main characters in this fun story. But it was fun to see the characters from the audiobook I’d listened to from different perspectives as well.
This was my first Kayley Loring story and I’m sure now that it won’t be my last! It had some hilarious moments, as well as very steamy moments. And I loved how she just wanted the dog! Also the chapter at the end from the dog’s point of view was perfect.
Another first time author for me was Krystyna Allyn. And her story was good, loved the Comicon aspect. Although I’m not sure what self-respecting rom-com heroine actually doesn’t like sex toys? However I loved the story and hope to read more by this author in the future as well!
The Penny Reid story was fun too. Of course I need to finish it and the last 3 stories after it, but they are by Sara Ney, Sonali Dev, and Susannah Nix, all authors I know and love, so I’m sure they will be just as good!
Want to read
April 14, 2022April 13, 2022
What Do You Think Happens...
When Twelve Brilliant Comedy Minds Get Together...
They Cannot Resist...
Thinking About What Would Make The Perfect...
Sexy Nerd Rom-Com Anthology...
Should They Focus On Pocket Protectors...
Nah...
What About Protractors...
Well, Maybe...
But Then Something Clicked...
With All Of These Creative Minds...
Avery Flynn, Erin Mallon, Helena Hunting
Jana Aston, Jiffy Kate, Karen Grey
Kayley Loring, Krystyna Allyn, Penny Reid
Sara Ney, Sonali Dev, Susannah Nix
Concocted What Came About...
Something They All Wanted to Focus On...
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology-August 16, 2022
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
What Do You Think Happens...
When Twelve Brilliant Comedy Minds Get Together...
They Cannot Resist...
Thinking About What Would Make The Perfect...
Sexy Nerd Rom-Com Anthology...
Should They Focus On Pocket Protectors...
Nah...
What About Protractors...
Well, Maybe...
But Then Something Clicked...
With All Of These Creative Minds...
Avery Flynn, Erin Mallon, Helena Hunting
Jana Aston, Jiffy Kate, Karen Grey
Kayley Loring, Krystyna Allyn, Penny Reid
Sara Ney, Sonali Dev, Susannah Nix
Concocted What Came About...
Something They All Wanted to Focus On...
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology-August 16, 2022
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 27, 2022
How do you briefly summarize a 927 page book including novellas written by 10 of your top fave (and 2 brand new fave) authors from the romance world?? It’s nearly impossible to do in a short space…. Other than to say that it’s completely worth every moment spent on every page!!
I have been eagerly anticipating this book since the moment it was announced, based on the line-up of names involved - just look at them!! - and not a single word disappointed! There are some souper (inside joke) jokes, some fantastic fart jokes, brilliant geeks and nerds, a trip to Comic Con, high school crushes realized, long-term crushes… some really short stories and some much longer. All are the fantastic writing all of these ladies are so well-known for, and some even include character appearances that we have long known and love!
I completely and totally recommend that everyone picks up a copy of this brilliant tome, even if you have only read or only recognize just one of these author’s names - you will quickly become a fan of all 12, like I have! The nerd fandom is real, and there needs to be more books recognizing them out there!
I received an advance copy from Social Butterfly PR, and this is my honest feedback. Thank you so much to all!
*******
Book 1 - Avery Flynn “Attracting Aubrey”
Famous actor The Admiral (Carter Hayes), meets normal girl (Aubrey Dean) with an Admiral insta fan page…!
Funny meet-cute with connecting stateroom doors on a singles cruise. She’s trying to hide her best friend’s long pants (which she always wears, no matter the weather), and he’s trying to be incognito. They hit it off, she realizes who he is and posts to her blog that he’s on the cruise… people start figuring out which cruise and try to find him. He’s trying to hide. They agree on a fake relationship so he can keep trying to hide who he is, while he’s trying to get her to admit that she’s the one who revealed him.
Very fun - very Avery Flynn!
One of the longest in the book, at 12%.
****
Book 2 - Erin Mallon “Showmancing the Bone”
Soup - making the unsexy… sexy.
Young, single mom Wendy sends her daughter off to college. Takes on a new stage manager job (leaving her school admin job), because she loves plays and a guy she had a crush on years ago is the lead actor, and now a widower. Duncan, lead actor and soup chef, had eyes for Wendy and working together on the (pretty awful) play together gives them time to actually get to know each other … a play about soup!
This is another great Erin Mallon audio play in the making… can’t wait for the audio (which she tells me is in the plans)!!
****
Book 3 - Helena Hunting “Not Just a Crush”
When girls weekend at a remote mountain cabin in the middle of winter gets snowed out… because only one person makes it before a blizzard shuts everything down, a snowplow driver (who looks like the sexy mountain men she’s been reading about to prepare), shows up to the rental cabin in the nick of time to save the day… kinda. Will the hot stranger help to pass the time until escape is possible?
Is he a stranger?? Why does Dahlia think this Conrad fella looks a bit like a bearded version of her high school crush??
I always love a good Helena Hunting story - and this was an excellent one!
****
Book 4 - Jana Aston “Central Park”
I cannot stop thinking about this one! I think this might be the one that has stuck with me the most - not sure why! I believe it has great potential to be expanded to a full novel. This was brilliant, so well written (Jana Aston… I mean, I don’t need to explain, she’s awesome!), absolutely hilarious! The plot was so unexpected and different, and I just freaking loved it!
“Baby Velvet” deserves a full book! I loved the witty banter between Liberty and Mason! Please give us more, Jana! It was perfect!
****
Book 5 - Jiffy Kate “The Doctor and the Dungeon Master”
True to Jiffy Kate style, we are in New Orleans. We have a great set up by friends… and then we get a reaaaaallly slow burn. Circumstances keep Griffin and Jenna from being able to pursue any kind of a relationship but they form a fantastic friendship and very flirty banter in the meantime, and learn each other’s quirks - falling in love from afar (aww!).
The pony jokes (MLP), indeed, will never grow old!
I love that they enjoyed going to Revelers games and previous JK characters we love were mentioned!
Love Jiffy Kate and will always beg for more of their fantastic books!
****
Book 6 - Karen Grey “What Happens in Carolina”
(Re-read)
Two script writers for the new Lawson’s Reach series (takes place in ‘98, a “take” on Dawson’s Creek), from LA taking a trip to the Carolina’s where it’s shooting. A hurricane (and tornado) cause everyone having to evacuate, cause Tina and George to be forced into actually speaking, working together during the storm, getting to fully know each other, and realizing they actually like each other... George hides a personal quirk from Tina that people generally send him to therapy for, but she takes it in stride. Tina withdrew when George basically ignored her from the first minute, so it’s a big deal that they finally clear the air.
This novella takes place concurrently with book 1 in Grey’s Carolina Classics series, “You Get What You Give” (if you read the book you will understand the overlap, but in no way does either need to be read to understand the other).
Love it just as much with a second full read through! Re-read it with a re-read of You Get What You Give.
****
Book 7 - Kayley Loring “There is Also a Dog”
The basics of a Hallmark Christmas movie (as Kayley mentioned even in her FB group was the basis of the title) - “There is Also a Dog”. Pretty much all of those movies (which I do totally love!), has a dog! It’s a critical piece!!
Jillian and Mitchell start with a text conversation when she rents his cabin over the Christmas holidays. They have mutual friends, and she finds herself suddenly in need of a place when there’s a water/sewage problem in her building. His booked tenants cancelled last-minute, so it works out for everyone.
Working on a big case for the firm where she’s a paralegal, Jillian needs to be sure there’s good internet, hence a lot of exchanged texts. When the router goes down, Mitchell has to take his cute dog Agnes and a new router and go fix it… and while Jillian falls for the dog, and definitely is interested in Mitchell, he spies a very interesting note/list she’s left on the kitchen table… and feels a need to to work on that to-do list…. With her!
And poor Agnes the dog has been plagued with a gas problem. Can’t have a Kayley Loring book without fart jokes!
Definitely would love a longer version of this one!!
***
Book 8 - Krystyna Allyn “Comic-Complications”
Very sweet! I’ve only just read my first book by Krystyna Allyn right before this compilation, and I enjoyed both of these!
The premise of this novella was cute - the two mave a meet- diasaster at the coffee shop near Comic Con, when she is rude and he offers to add her drink to his large order…. And then takes it. They have a few run-ins at the Con, where he is working helping a number of booths (he being Benton, a podcaster and Tiktok personality for the sci fi and comic crowd, and is pretty well known), and she (being Brooke) is a reporter needing to cover the Con (after an embarrassing live mic incident). Being that Benton is good people, he helps Brooke with some comic knowledge and who and what she should ask and report on… and spending time together just might lead to realizing that a nerd could be better for her than the other guys she’s been chasing…
I enjoyed this one, where the nice guy seems to win, even with a couple tricks, and takes the mean girl down a peg or two!
****
Book 9 - Penny Reid “Pash No Rash” (only 2%/10 pages)
A few recognizable Penny side characters and location!
2 visitors to Green Valley have a conversation at Genie’s. They are in town for a business meeting (staying at the Donner Lodge). Audrey is drinking and unloading a random stream of thought to Patty, when the big and scary Elias walks in. Someone she didn’t think knew who she was - oh, but he knew.
Like that even though it’s extremely short, it has plenty of Penny in the pages! Plus, she has Patty looking out for Audrey when she leaves.
****
Book 10 - Sara Ney “Things Liars Fake” (15% longest one!)
I loved this story! Starts with girlfriends out at a wine bar, and some guys they kinda know eying them across the room… Daphne is a bit curious about one, but he’s too buttoned up and geeky for her taste. She runs into him again later when out at a movie on her own - a sci-fi classic, and realizes she might kinda like his nerdiness… then his aunt spots them, assumes they’re dating, tells the whole family… and suddenly they are fake dating, when she’s hoping he’s going to ask her out for real.
Everything keeps snowballing in a big way, and since no one knows how to communicate, it just keeps on going.
My first Sara Ney, but I’ve always planned to read all of her books. If they’re anything like this one, I’ll be jumping on them right away! So good!
****
Book 11 - Sonali Dev “The Runaway Bride”
I’m a mega-fan of Sonali Dev and her The Rajes series! I didn’t know that her included story in the book was another Rajes wedding novella, so you cannot understand my pure delight when I discovered this fact! I might have “squeee’d”!
We finally get the story of the sister we don’t know a lot about - Nisha, and fiancé Neel. She overhears a conversation the Aunties are having after the pre wedding night celebration dinner during clean up that he has just spent time with his ex… the woman he proposed to and who broke his heart… and so she does the only thing she can think of. She climbs out the window and runs!
Nisha Raje has been in love with (and planned to marry) Neel since she was about 4, so this is completely devastating! He only just realized he was going to marry her 6 months ago, after this Barbara destroyed his heart - Nisha doesn’t want to be second choice. Time to go!
This book follows Dev’s normal beautiful writing that we get in all of her other books - loved it! Love every single thing about it!
****
Book 12 - Susannah Nix “Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind”
Sarah works as a waitress on the night shift at the local diner. Henry is the reclusive tech billionaire who has been in town the last few years, and comes in occasionally. He likes to sit in Sarah’s section, ordering only coffee, and not being bothered.
One night, he surprises Sarah by asking her to sit, and then even further by asking her for a favor - to accompany him as his fake girlfriend to his grandparents 50th anniversary party, so his family will stop asking him questions (you know, like when is he going to settle down). She’d always been intrigued by him, so she agrees, especially when he says she’s the only person he can ask since she’s basically the only one in town who doesn’t work for him or want him for his money.
They get to know each other on the way to his hometown, forced by her since he wants to keep working, and she brings him out of his shell and discovers she quite likes this elusive guy! His family, on the other hand…
I love a good fake relationship story, and I always love everything I read from Susannah Nix, so this was another great read, and excellent way to close out a fantastic book!
I have been eagerly anticipating this book since the moment it was announced, based on the line-up of names involved - just look at them!! - and not a single word disappointed! There are some souper (inside joke) jokes, some fantastic fart jokes, brilliant geeks and nerds, a trip to Comic Con, high school crushes realized, long-term crushes… some really short stories and some much longer. All are the fantastic writing all of these ladies are so well-known for, and some even include character appearances that we have long known and love!
I completely and totally recommend that everyone picks up a copy of this brilliant tome, even if you have only read or only recognize just one of these author’s names - you will quickly become a fan of all 12, like I have! The nerd fandom is real, and there needs to be more books recognizing them out there!
I received an advance copy from Social Butterfly PR, and this is my honest feedback. Thank you so much to all!
*******
Book 1 - Avery Flynn “Attracting Aubrey”
Famous actor The Admiral (Carter Hayes), meets normal girl (Aubrey Dean) with an Admiral insta fan page…!
Funny meet-cute with connecting stateroom doors on a singles cruise. She’s trying to hide her best friend’s long pants (which she always wears, no matter the weather), and he’s trying to be incognito. They hit it off, she realizes who he is and posts to her blog that he’s on the cruise… people start figuring out which cruise and try to find him. He’s trying to hide. They agree on a fake relationship so he can keep trying to hide who he is, while he’s trying to get her to admit that she’s the one who revealed him.
Very fun - very Avery Flynn!
One of the longest in the book, at 12%.
****
Book 2 - Erin Mallon “Showmancing the Bone”
Soup - making the unsexy… sexy.
Young, single mom Wendy sends her daughter off to college. Takes on a new stage manager job (leaving her school admin job), because she loves plays and a guy she had a crush on years ago is the lead actor, and now a widower. Duncan, lead actor and soup chef, had eyes for Wendy and working together on the (pretty awful) play together gives them time to actually get to know each other … a play about soup!
This is another great Erin Mallon audio play in the making… can’t wait for the audio (which she tells me is in the plans)!!
****
Book 3 - Helena Hunting “Not Just a Crush”
When girls weekend at a remote mountain cabin in the middle of winter gets snowed out… because only one person makes it before a blizzard shuts everything down, a snowplow driver (who looks like the sexy mountain men she’s been reading about to prepare), shows up to the rental cabin in the nick of time to save the day… kinda. Will the hot stranger help to pass the time until escape is possible?
Is he a stranger?? Why does Dahlia think this Conrad fella looks a bit like a bearded version of her high school crush??
I always love a good Helena Hunting story - and this was an excellent one!
****
Book 4 - Jana Aston “Central Park”
I cannot stop thinking about this one! I think this might be the one that has stuck with me the most - not sure why! I believe it has great potential to be expanded to a full novel. This was brilliant, so well written (Jana Aston… I mean, I don’t need to explain, she’s awesome!), absolutely hilarious! The plot was so unexpected and different, and I just freaking loved it!
“Baby Velvet” deserves a full book! I loved the witty banter between Liberty and Mason! Please give us more, Jana! It was perfect!
****
Book 5 - Jiffy Kate “The Doctor and the Dungeon Master”
True to Jiffy Kate style, we are in New Orleans. We have a great set up by friends… and then we get a reaaaaallly slow burn. Circumstances keep Griffin and Jenna from being able to pursue any kind of a relationship but they form a fantastic friendship and very flirty banter in the meantime, and learn each other’s quirks - falling in love from afar (aww!).
The pony jokes (MLP), indeed, will never grow old!
I love that they enjoyed going to Revelers games and previous JK characters we love were mentioned!
Love Jiffy Kate and will always beg for more of their fantastic books!
****
Book 6 - Karen Grey “What Happens in Carolina”
(Re-read)
Two script writers for the new Lawson’s Reach series (takes place in ‘98, a “take” on Dawson’s Creek), from LA taking a trip to the Carolina’s where it’s shooting. A hurricane (and tornado) cause everyone having to evacuate, cause Tina and George to be forced into actually speaking, working together during the storm, getting to fully know each other, and realizing they actually like each other... George hides a personal quirk from Tina that people generally send him to therapy for, but she takes it in stride. Tina withdrew when George basically ignored her from the first minute, so it’s a big deal that they finally clear the air.
This novella takes place concurrently with book 1 in Grey’s Carolina Classics series, “You Get What You Give” (if you read the book you will understand the overlap, but in no way does either need to be read to understand the other).
Love it just as much with a second full read through! Re-read it with a re-read of You Get What You Give.
****
Book 7 - Kayley Loring “There is Also a Dog”
The basics of a Hallmark Christmas movie (as Kayley mentioned even in her FB group was the basis of the title) - “There is Also a Dog”. Pretty much all of those movies (which I do totally love!), has a dog! It’s a critical piece!!
Jillian and Mitchell start with a text conversation when she rents his cabin over the Christmas holidays. They have mutual friends, and she finds herself suddenly in need of a place when there’s a water/sewage problem in her building. His booked tenants cancelled last-minute, so it works out for everyone.
Working on a big case for the firm where she’s a paralegal, Jillian needs to be sure there’s good internet, hence a lot of exchanged texts. When the router goes down, Mitchell has to take his cute dog Agnes and a new router and go fix it… and while Jillian falls for the dog, and definitely is interested in Mitchell, he spies a very interesting note/list she’s left on the kitchen table… and feels a need to to work on that to-do list…. With her!
And poor Agnes the dog has been plagued with a gas problem. Can’t have a Kayley Loring book without fart jokes!
Definitely would love a longer version of this one!!
***
Book 8 - Krystyna Allyn “Comic-Complications”
Very sweet! I’ve only just read my first book by Krystyna Allyn right before this compilation, and I enjoyed both of these!
The premise of this novella was cute - the two mave a meet- diasaster at the coffee shop near Comic Con, when she is rude and he offers to add her drink to his large order…. And then takes it. They have a few run-ins at the Con, where he is working helping a number of booths (he being Benton, a podcaster and Tiktok personality for the sci fi and comic crowd, and is pretty well known), and she (being Brooke) is a reporter needing to cover the Con (after an embarrassing live mic incident). Being that Benton is good people, he helps Brooke with some comic knowledge and who and what she should ask and report on… and spending time together just might lead to realizing that a nerd could be better for her than the other guys she’s been chasing…
I enjoyed this one, where the nice guy seems to win, even with a couple tricks, and takes the mean girl down a peg or two!
****
Book 9 - Penny Reid “Pash No Rash” (only 2%/10 pages)
A few recognizable Penny side characters and location!
2 visitors to Green Valley have a conversation at Genie’s. They are in town for a business meeting (staying at the Donner Lodge). Audrey is drinking and unloading a random stream of thought to Patty, when the big and scary Elias walks in. Someone she didn’t think knew who she was - oh, but he knew.
Like that even though it’s extremely short, it has plenty of Penny in the pages! Plus, she has Patty looking out for Audrey when she leaves.
****
Book 10 - Sara Ney “Things Liars Fake” (15% longest one!)
I loved this story! Starts with girlfriends out at a wine bar, and some guys they kinda know eying them across the room… Daphne is a bit curious about one, but he’s too buttoned up and geeky for her taste. She runs into him again later when out at a movie on her own - a sci-fi classic, and realizes she might kinda like his nerdiness… then his aunt spots them, assumes they’re dating, tells the whole family… and suddenly they are fake dating, when she’s hoping he’s going to ask her out for real.
Everything keeps snowballing in a big way, and since no one knows how to communicate, it just keeps on going.
My first Sara Ney, but I’ve always planned to read all of her books. If they’re anything like this one, I’ll be jumping on them right away! So good!
****
Book 11 - Sonali Dev “The Runaway Bride”
I’m a mega-fan of Sonali Dev and her The Rajes series! I didn’t know that her included story in the book was another Rajes wedding novella, so you cannot understand my pure delight when I discovered this fact! I might have “squeee’d”!
We finally get the story of the sister we don’t know a lot about - Nisha, and fiancé Neel. She overhears a conversation the Aunties are having after the pre wedding night celebration dinner during clean up that he has just spent time with his ex… the woman he proposed to and who broke his heart… and so she does the only thing she can think of. She climbs out the window and runs!
Nisha Raje has been in love with (and planned to marry) Neel since she was about 4, so this is completely devastating! He only just realized he was going to marry her 6 months ago, after this Barbara destroyed his heart - Nisha doesn’t want to be second choice. Time to go!
This book follows Dev’s normal beautiful writing that we get in all of her other books - loved it! Love every single thing about it!
****
Book 12 - Susannah Nix “Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind”
Sarah works as a waitress on the night shift at the local diner. Henry is the reclusive tech billionaire who has been in town the last few years, and comes in occasionally. He likes to sit in Sarah’s section, ordering only coffee, and not being bothered.
One night, he surprises Sarah by asking her to sit, and then even further by asking her for a favor - to accompany him as his fake girlfriend to his grandparents 50th anniversary party, so his family will stop asking him questions (you know, like when is he going to settle down). She’d always been intrigued by him, so she agrees, especially when he says she’s the only person he can ask since she’s basically the only one in town who doesn’t work for him or want him for his money.
They get to know each other on the way to his hometown, forced by her since he wants to keep working, and she brings him out of his shell and discovers she quite likes this elusive guy! His family, on the other hand…
I love a good fake relationship story, and I always love everything I read from Susannah Nix, so this was another great read, and excellent way to close out a fantastic book!
August 21, 2022
My favorite stories were:
Shomancing the Bone by Erin Mallon
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix
Shomancing the Bone by Erin Mallon
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix
August 4, 2022
With lines like “how you know it’s not a psychopath bear?” you know you’re in for a good time! This has so many great and fun stories that will have you LOL’ing and bring big smiles to your face. There is something for everyone, with all sorts of steam with the laughs, and fun with the frantic. Absolutely loved every second spent reading it!
August 16, 2022
Nerdilicious!
4 stars
I am a massive sucker for nerd romance of any kind. I don’t care if they’re former nerd, current nerd, a nerd who gets a makeover, girl nerd or boy nerd - I love them all. So when I heard about this anthology I couldn’t wait.
We get 12 romcom stories from some really great authors. Definitely unusual to have so many of my favourite authors all together in one book. Having said that, I was a bit disappointed to find that at least one of the stories has been released previously and is actually one I’ve read. So if you’re buying for a specific author, check whether you might have read it before.
In a very rough average, the stories are around 65-75 pages each meaning a little under an hour’s reading time for each.
The stories we get are:
* Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn
* Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon
* Not Just A Crush by Helena Hunting
* Central Park by Jana Aston
* The Doctor and the Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate
* What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey
* There Is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
* Comic-Complications by Krystyna Allyn
* Pash No Rash by Penny Reid
* Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney
* The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev
* Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix
While all the stories were enjoyable, well-written and featured some sort of nerdy goodness - each brought something different to the table. For those of the authors I’d read, their stories still felt like theirs, with their individual voice and tone shining through.
I was also tickled by just how funny these stories were. I laughed out loud on many occasion and for many of the stories but extra points for Jana Aston as her story was so wonderfully, ridiculously fantastic that I almost didn’t stop laughing from beginning to end.
My stand out stories, other than Jana Aston’s, were those by Helena Hunting, which left me with a huge smile on my face; Kayley Loring’s offering, which just cemented her as the living embodiment of my silly, sometimes puerile - but still hilarious - sense of humour; Sara Ney with her sweet and sigh-worthy tale and Susannah Nix’s delightful tale of fake dating, a nerdy billionaire and true love. And despite having read it previously, Avery Flynn’s story is still a fun and sexy read.
I may be being a tad grumpy with my 4-star review instead of 5 - especially as you’re currently getting 12 great stories for less than a pound. And even with my rating, I would very much recommend this selection of stories to anyone who’s partial to a bit of romantic nerdage, or to anyone who’s a fan of one or more of the authors.
August 18, 2022
While I’m not the biggest fan of short stories, I am always willing to give them a read when an anthology sounds intriguing and gives me the chance to try new authors. Such is what happened here, and my feelings were much the same as my feelings toward most anthologies.
Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn was a four-star rating. This was such an addictive read, one that pulled me in and had me falling for it with every detail that was introduced. While this does link to other work by the author, you do not need to be a fan to enjoy this one. For fans, it’s a fun little bonus. Either way, it’s a fun quick read that will have you smiling throughout.
Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon was a four-star rating. This was an amusing read, one that had me snorting a few times. At first, I was a wee bit tentative as it seemed a little over the top. However, as things progressed, I fell deeper for the story. It was the best kind of silly, ensuring I adored each moment – even the predictable ones – that played out.
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting was a three-star rating. This was an okay read for me, one I don’t think I was the right reader for. It was a little too simplistic for me, plus I found it to be a bit repetitious. I know many people are a big fan of the author’s work and are likely to love this quick read, but there was not enough depth for me.
Central Park by Jana Aston was a four-star rating. This was another amusing read, one that hit me with all the feels. It was another story that erred toward over the top, yet it worked. It had me smiling and unable to put it down, hooked on all the details. Although this played out in a very predictable manner, it was a lot of fun.
The Doctor and The Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate was a three-star rating. This was another okay read for me, another where I think I was not the right reader. There were a couple of things in this one that I found amusing, but mostly I was indifferent. I think fans of the author who know the other characters will enjoy this one, but it wasn’t quite for me.
What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey was a three-star rating. This was a sweet story, one that had me debating handing a higher rating. While I did enjoy it, it felt a little too easy for me. It was mostly dependent upon a lack of communication between the characters, and I’m not a big fan of this when it is the major reason for misunderstanding. Nevertheless, it was cute.
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring was a three-star rating. This was one that grew on me, one that I came to enjoy more than anticipated by the time I was done. It was built upon cliches, but it worked. It was silly (not quite to my humour, though) and addictive, ensuring I was happy to turn the pages. While I would have liked a bit more depth, it did win me over.
Comic-Complications by Krystyna Allyn was a two-star rating. This was one I really wanted to enjoy, especially as it contained so many elements that I usually love. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. I never connected with the characters, never quite finding them likeable, and had hoped for a lot more from it. I can see it appealing to many, but it wasn’t quite for me.
Pash No Rash by Penny Reid was a three-star rating. This was one where I rounded my rating up, with my not quite a full three-star rating reflecting the fact that this is just a single scene. Had this been more, it could have been wonderful. As it was, it felt like a glimpse of something that was never quite complete. An interesting concept, but it would have worked much better as a full story instead of a single scene.
Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney was a three-star rating. This was one that had me conflicted, leaving me somewhat unsure how I felt. While the idea was interesting, it was one that I found very difficult to connect with. Nothing really pulled me in the way it should have, and I found it easy to forget once I was done with it. For me, it was lacking that something to make it stand out.
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev was a three-star rating. This was one I didn’t quite connect with at first, only for it to win me over. At first, I was unsure where the story was going and felt like things were introduced without having the impact they could have. However, I fell deeper for the story the more I read. While it was not my favourite, it was certainly one that won me over.
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix was a three-star rating. This was a cute read, one that grew on me. At first, it all felt very cliched and surface-level. While this was true throughout, it was a story that did have me smiling. It was cute and enjoyable, and it hit the right spot for a quick read.
All in all, this was a mixed bag. There were a couple of stories that really stood out for me, and I can certainly see the variety appealing to people. The only thing I will say is that some of this fit into the ‘nerd’ label much more than others.
Attracting Aubrey by Avery Flynn was a four-star rating. This was such an addictive read, one that pulled me in and had me falling for it with every detail that was introduced. While this does link to other work by the author, you do not need to be a fan to enjoy this one. For fans, it’s a fun little bonus. Either way, it’s a fun quick read that will have you smiling throughout.
Showmancing the Bone by Erin Mallon was a four-star rating. This was an amusing read, one that had me snorting a few times. At first, I was a wee bit tentative as it seemed a little over the top. However, as things progressed, I fell deeper for the story. It was the best kind of silly, ensuring I adored each moment – even the predictable ones – that played out.
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting was a three-star rating. This was an okay read for me, one I don’t think I was the right reader for. It was a little too simplistic for me, plus I found it to be a bit repetitious. I know many people are a big fan of the author’s work and are likely to love this quick read, but there was not enough depth for me.
Central Park by Jana Aston was a four-star rating. This was another amusing read, one that hit me with all the feels. It was another story that erred toward over the top, yet it worked. It had me smiling and unable to put it down, hooked on all the details. Although this played out in a very predictable manner, it was a lot of fun.
The Doctor and The Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate was a three-star rating. This was another okay read for me, another where I think I was not the right reader. There were a couple of things in this one that I found amusing, but mostly I was indifferent. I think fans of the author who know the other characters will enjoy this one, but it wasn’t quite for me.
What Happens in Carolina by Karen Grey was a three-star rating. This was a sweet story, one that had me debating handing a higher rating. While I did enjoy it, it felt a little too easy for me. It was mostly dependent upon a lack of communication between the characters, and I’m not a big fan of this when it is the major reason for misunderstanding. Nevertheless, it was cute.
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring was a three-star rating. This was one that grew on me, one that I came to enjoy more than anticipated by the time I was done. It was built upon cliches, but it worked. It was silly (not quite to my humour, though) and addictive, ensuring I was happy to turn the pages. While I would have liked a bit more depth, it did win me over.
Comic-Complications by Krystyna Allyn was a two-star rating. This was one I really wanted to enjoy, especially as it contained so many elements that I usually love. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. I never connected with the characters, never quite finding them likeable, and had hoped for a lot more from it. I can see it appealing to many, but it wasn’t quite for me.
Pash No Rash by Penny Reid was a three-star rating. This was one where I rounded my rating up, with my not quite a full three-star rating reflecting the fact that this is just a single scene. Had this been more, it could have been wonderful. As it was, it felt like a glimpse of something that was never quite complete. An interesting concept, but it would have worked much better as a full story instead of a single scene.
Things Liars Fake by Sara Ney was a three-star rating. This was one that had me conflicted, leaving me somewhat unsure how I felt. While the idea was interesting, it was one that I found very difficult to connect with. Nothing really pulled me in the way it should have, and I found it easy to forget once I was done with it. For me, it was lacking that something to make it stand out.
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev was a three-star rating. This was one I didn’t quite connect with at first, only for it to win me over. At first, I was unsure where the story was going and felt like things were introduced without having the impact they could have. However, I fell deeper for the story the more I read. While it was not my favourite, it was certainly one that won me over.
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind by Susannah Nix was a three-star rating. This was a cute read, one that grew on me. At first, it all felt very cliched and surface-level. While this was true throughout, it was a story that did have me smiling. It was cute and enjoyable, and it hit the right spot for a quick read.
All in all, this was a mixed bag. There were a couple of stories that really stood out for me, and I can certainly see the variety appealing to people. The only thing I will say is that some of this fit into the ‘nerd’ label much more than others.
August 17, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ overall
Trope: various romcoms
Angst: 😱 - 😱😱😱
Smexy: clean 🙈 - 🔥🔥🔥
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom is an anthology collection of 12 shorter stories by various authors. We have all kind of nerd stories in the collection. Not-nerds pretending to be nerds. Theater nerds. The "I was a nerd in high school" paired with the jock. You get the point :). Some stories are better than others, but overall, I'd give the collection 4 stars. Definitely worth your time if you're a fan of nerd stories :)
Trope: various romcoms
Angst: 😱 - 😱😱😱
Smexy: clean 🙈 - 🔥🔥🔥
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom is an anthology collection of 12 shorter stories by various authors. We have all kind of nerd stories in the collection. Not-nerds pretending to be nerds. Theater nerds. The "I was a nerd in high school" paired with the jock. You get the point :). Some stories are better than others, but overall, I'd give the collection 4 stars. Definitely worth your time if you're a fan of nerd stories :)
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October 26, 2022This title is no longer available but keep an eye out for my story as a standalone coming soon!
August 5, 2022
When this anthology was announced, it was a one click “buy now” for me. 12 amazing rom-com authors writing some novellas about hot nerds, sign me up. This collection is an amazing all star group of rom-com authors and each story had me cracking up. There are several of my favorite authors and a few I had never read.
Every story was so much fun to read and I laughed out loud so many times with each story. Each author has brought their A game with one liners, interesting story lines, amazing female main characters and swoony nerdy male main characters. This is an anthology you’re not going to want to miss. Laughs and smiles are guaranteed.
Every story was so much fun to read and I laughed out loud so many times with each story. Each author has brought their A game with one liners, interesting story lines, amazing female main characters and swoony nerdy male main characters. This is an anthology you’re not going to want to miss. Laughs and smiles are guaranteed.
August 29, 2022
Attracting Aubrey - This was short and cute. Aubrey is on a singles cruise with her friends and bumps into the celebrity she just happens to stalk online as he's incognito. I'm not saying he's Henry Cavill but he was Henry Cavill in my mind. Their story was the perfect length.
Showmancing the Bone - DNF - secondhand embarrassment was too high for me. The restaurant was called Slurping the Bone and only sold soup. No. Just no.
Not Just a Crush - Oh no, we’re stuck in a cabin in the woods with only these condoms for company. It was actually cute. Abrupt but cute.
Central Park - The story about being hired as a nanny for a childless man cracked me up. I loved that he bought her a stroller to take the imaginary child on walks in the park. I would have read a full length novel about this couple.
Doctor and Dungeon Master - She didn’t want to date a patient but weren’t they skirting the line the whole time?
What happens in Carolina - Dawson’s Creek writing duo. Not a whole lot of chemistry between the two of them. Was a set up into their real novel with the fake Dawson's creek folks.
There is also A Dog - Were they flirting or did the dog create the ambiance? Their texts were flirty but real life was odd until they started macking.
Comic-Complications - DNF after some casual racism in the Starbucks line. I noped out pretty quick so forgive me if I get the details wrong. She was being horrible in the coffee line and he said something. She turned around to describe him as a “brotha”. Like.. he’s a guy waiting in line to buy coffee for his team. Can we not?
Pash No Rash - I WANTED MORE. Is there a full length novel? Please give it to me.
Things Liars Fake - I want to smush their faces together. The nerdy dirty talk slayed me.
The Runaway Bride - I loved this one. She felt like she was his second choice to get married and they were doing it because their families got out of control since they are close. Turns out, he was all in and she didn’t know. I loved their truth game to earn each other’s comfort with each other again.
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind - Her regular customer at the diner she waitresses in needed a date to a family wedding and he asked her to be his fake date so they wouldn’t ask questions of him. Of course he’s super hot and doesn’t know it. She’s lovely and doesn’t realize he’s into her.
Thank you to Social Butterfly PR for a copy of the Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
Showmancing the Bone - DNF - secondhand embarrassment was too high for me. The restaurant was called Slurping the Bone and only sold soup. No. Just no.
Not Just a Crush - Oh no, we’re stuck in a cabin in the woods with only these condoms for company. It was actually cute. Abrupt but cute.
Central Park - The story about being hired as a nanny for a childless man cracked me up. I loved that he bought her a stroller to take the imaginary child on walks in the park. I would have read a full length novel about this couple.
Doctor and Dungeon Master - She didn’t want to date a patient but weren’t they skirting the line the whole time?
What happens in Carolina - Dawson’s Creek writing duo. Not a whole lot of chemistry between the two of them. Was a set up into their real novel with the fake Dawson's creek folks.
There is also A Dog - Were they flirting or did the dog create the ambiance? Their texts were flirty but real life was odd until they started macking.
Comic-Complications - DNF after some casual racism in the Starbucks line. I noped out pretty quick so forgive me if I get the details wrong. She was being horrible in the coffee line and he said something. She turned around to describe him as a “brotha”. Like.. he’s a guy waiting in line to buy coffee for his team. Can we not?
Pash No Rash - I WANTED MORE. Is there a full length novel? Please give it to me.
Things Liars Fake - I want to smush their faces together. The nerdy dirty talk slayed me.
The Runaway Bride - I loved this one. She felt like she was his second choice to get married and they were doing it because their families got out of control since they are close. Turns out, he was all in and she didn’t know. I loved their truth game to earn each other’s comfort with each other again.
Close Encounters of the Nerd Kind - Her regular customer at the diner she waitresses in needed a date to a family wedding and he asked her to be his fake date so they wouldn’t ask questions of him. Of course he’s super hot and doesn’t know it. She’s lovely and doesn’t realize he’s into her.
Thank you to Social Butterfly PR for a copy of the Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
August 20, 2022
4 stars!
This is a great collection of quick, fun and sexy reads. Featuring delightfully ‘nerdy’ and relatable characters falling hard and fast, these are perfect little feel good reads to snuggle down with, that will leave you with a smile on your face.
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
This is a great novella with a fun backstory. Dahlia is heading for a girl’s weekend, but ends up on her own in a mountain cabin in the middle of a blizzard. She is rescued by a hunky mountain man who just happens to be the boy that she crushed on in high school. Turns out that Conrad the high school football star also had a crush on Dahlia the math nerd, but neither of them did anything about it at the time. Now they’re snowed in together for the duration of a monster storm. There’s no better time to get reacquainted, and act on all of those feelings from long ago.
I really enjoyed this story. It’s funny, sweet and sexy, and Dahlia and Conrad are so freaking cute together. They have mad chemistry, and even in such a short read, I could feel the connection between them, and loved seeing them come together.
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
This is such a fun little read! A city-based workaholic ends up in a small mountain cabin for the holidays. She's not happy to be there, but she has enjoyed some flirty banter with the cabin owner. And when she needs help, her nerdy, flirtatious hero comes to the rescue.
Mitchell and Jillian are both so freaking funny. They have great chemistry, and their back-and-forth "flirxting" is so much fun. Things move hot, fast and steamy, and it's a great beginning to a relationship, with an epilogue that finishes of this short story really sweetly.
It's shorter than your average novella length, but I really enjoyed it. It made me laugh and I loved these characters.
Oh, and just like any good Christmas Hallmark movie, Mitchell also has a dog.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Blessedly, the stories in this collection appear to be standalones (at least the ones I read), and not a tease of a longer book yet to be released, so you can dive in with no fear of cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.
Written with humor and heart, with great characters and fantastic chemistry, I loved these fun stories and seeing everybody get their happy endings.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great collection of quick, fun and sexy reads. Featuring delightfully ‘nerdy’ and relatable characters falling hard and fast, these are perfect little feel good reads to snuggle down with, that will leave you with a smile on your face.
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
This is a great novella with a fun backstory. Dahlia is heading for a girl’s weekend, but ends up on her own in a mountain cabin in the middle of a blizzard. She is rescued by a hunky mountain man who just happens to be the boy that she crushed on in high school. Turns out that Conrad the high school football star also had a crush on Dahlia the math nerd, but neither of them did anything about it at the time. Now they’re snowed in together for the duration of a monster storm. There’s no better time to get reacquainted, and act on all of those feelings from long ago.
I really enjoyed this story. It’s funny, sweet and sexy, and Dahlia and Conrad are so freaking cute together. They have mad chemistry, and even in such a short read, I could feel the connection between them, and loved seeing them come together.
There is Also a Dog by Kayley Loring
This is such a fun little read! A city-based workaholic ends up in a small mountain cabin for the holidays. She's not happy to be there, but she has enjoyed some flirty banter with the cabin owner. And when she needs help, her nerdy, flirtatious hero comes to the rescue.
Mitchell and Jillian are both so freaking funny. They have great chemistry, and their back-and-forth "flirxting" is so much fun. Things move hot, fast and steamy, and it's a great beginning to a relationship, with an epilogue that finishes of this short story really sweetly.
It's shorter than your average novella length, but I really enjoyed it. It made me laugh and I loved these characters.
Oh, and just like any good Christmas Hallmark movie, Mitchell also has a dog.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Blessedly, the stories in this collection appear to be standalones (at least the ones I read), and not a tease of a longer book yet to be released, so you can dive in with no fear of cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.
Written with humor and heart, with great characters and fantastic chemistry, I loved these fun stories and seeing everybody get their happy endings.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2022
Sexy Nerd romances can be a lot of fun- but what's even better? 12 Sexy Nerd romantic comedies all in one book!
4.5 ⭐
There are so many great rom-com authors included in this anthology including some of my favorites like Avery Flynn, Susannah Nix, Kayley Loring and Sara Ney. But one of the great things about anthologies is getting introduced to new authors and then finding your TBR stacked with even more titles that you need to check out!
This collection of stories rides falls more into a novella type story where they are not super long, have minimal drama and the timelines are generally pretty quick. It makes these stories perfect for some quick reading or if you just want the warm fuzzies with a dose of humor.
I love the "nerd" theme being pretty vast as well- ranging from a heartthrob undercover as a nerd, sci-fi and theater nerds, high school mathletes to librarians, lawyers and so much more. They all have their own brand of nerdiness and I love that there is such a variety on the theme. Not to mention the humor in each of these stories was fantastic in the form of witty banter and humorous situations topped off with some heat and even a little dirty talk 😉
4.5 ⭐
There are so many great rom-com authors included in this anthology including some of my favorites like Avery Flynn, Susannah Nix, Kayley Loring and Sara Ney. But one of the great things about anthologies is getting introduced to new authors and then finding your TBR stacked with even more titles that you need to check out!
This collection of stories rides falls more into a novella type story where they are not super long, have minimal drama and the timelines are generally pretty quick. It makes these stories perfect for some quick reading or if you just want the warm fuzzies with a dose of humor.
I love the "nerd" theme being pretty vast as well- ranging from a heartthrob undercover as a nerd, sci-fi and theater nerds, high school mathletes to librarians, lawyers and so much more. They all have their own brand of nerdiness and I love that there is such a variety on the theme. Not to mention the humor in each of these stories was fantastic in the form of witty banter and humorous situations topped off with some heat and even a little dirty talk 😉
August 14, 2022
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Series- N?A
Troupes- All our favorite troupes
CW-
Autors -
Avery Flynn
Erin Mallon
Helena Hunting
Jana Aston
Jiffy Kate
Karen Grey
Kayley Loring
Krystyna Allyn
Penny Reid
Sara Nay
Sonali Dev
Susannah Nix
This is such fun and flaming hot nerdy anthology! Some stand outs for me were from Penny Reid, Susannah Nix, Jiffy Kate Helena Hunting and Jana Aston! But they are all great!
There is over 700 pages of short sweet and spicy stories from your favorite authors what’s not to love! And when is say spicy I mean spiicy 🥵be ready for those glasses to steam up and have a fan on hand, cause most of these shorts start out steamy and go up in flames fast!
I love a romance Anthony is a great way to read new authors and get some quick satisfaction!
Thank you to Sociabutterfly PR and all the authors for this advanced copy, my opinions are my own.
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Series- N?A
Troupes- All our favorite troupes
CW-
Autors -
Avery Flynn
Erin Mallon
Helena Hunting
Jana Aston
Jiffy Kate
Karen Grey
Kayley Loring
Krystyna Allyn
Penny Reid
Sara Nay
Sonali Dev
Susannah Nix
This is such fun and flaming hot nerdy anthology! Some stand outs for me were from Penny Reid, Susannah Nix, Jiffy Kate Helena Hunting and Jana Aston! But they are all great!
There is over 700 pages of short sweet and spicy stories from your favorite authors what’s not to love! And when is say spicy I mean spiicy 🥵be ready for those glasses to steam up and have a fan on hand, cause most of these shorts start out steamy and go up in flames fast!
I love a romance Anthony is a great way to read new authors and get some quick satisfaction!
Thank you to Sociabutterfly PR and all the authors for this advanced copy, my opinions are my own.
August 16, 2022
This anthology is a MUST READ! All of the stories are awesome, but I have to say that a few of my favorites were Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting (I adored this book so freaking much!!), The Doctor and the Dungeon Master by Jiffy Kate (These authors are just wonderful and I always love their books, such a great part of the anthology!) and Pash, no Rash by Penny Reid (just freaking great!).
Seriously, if you are thinking about getting it then you should. That is an excellent choice and I fully support it. These are some of my favorite authors and if you are looking for a little joy added to your life, this is just what you need- 5 stars for sure!
PS: Thank you to all of the authors and Social Butterfly PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
Seriously, if you are thinking about getting it then you should. That is an excellent choice and I fully support it. These are some of my favorite authors and if you are looking for a little joy added to your life, this is just what you need- 5 stars for sure!
PS: Thank you to all of the authors and Social Butterfly PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
August 15, 2022
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology
Avery Flynn
Erin Mallon
Helena Hunting
Jana Aston
Jiffy Kate
Karen Grey
Kayley Loring
Krystyna Allyn
Penny Reid
Sara Ney
Sonali Dev
Susannah Nix
So far I've read the stories by Jana Aston, Erin Mallon, Helena Hunting and Jiffy Kate. Got to say they've given us some entertaining, sexy nerds starring in their fun short reads.
Unrequited high school crush snowed in, theatre nerd single parents, nannying for a New York 'single dad'.
I can't wait to see what else is coming my way.
I love a good anthology. Drawn in by some favourite authors, then getting to discover some new favourites.
Avery Flynn
Erin Mallon
Helena Hunting
Jana Aston
Jiffy Kate
Karen Grey
Kayley Loring
Krystyna Allyn
Penny Reid
Sara Ney
Sonali Dev
Susannah Nix
So far I've read the stories by Jana Aston, Erin Mallon, Helena Hunting and Jiffy Kate. Got to say they've given us some entertaining, sexy nerds starring in their fun short reads.
Unrequited high school crush snowed in, theatre nerd single parents, nannying for a New York 'single dad'.
I can't wait to see what else is coming my way.
I love a good anthology. Drawn in by some favourite authors, then getting to discover some new favourites.
August 16, 2022
This is a wonderful anthology with novellas from so many amazing authors. There were a number of my favorites including Penny Reid, Avery Flynn, Helena Hunting, and Susannah Nix. I also found a couple new-to-me authors I can't wait to read more from.
Each of the authors has contributed a novella that's perfect to read in one or two sittings. These stories made me laugh and smile so many times. There's plenty of humor, fun, romance, and best of all great writing.
This is a can't miss anthology!
Thank you to the authors for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Each of the authors has contributed a novella that's perfect to read in one or two sittings. These stories made me laugh and smile so many times. There's plenty of humor, fun, romance, and best of all great writing.
This is a can't miss anthology!
Thank you to the authors for providing an ARC for an honest review.
August 16, 2022
Something for Everyone!
In this anthology of pure nerdy-ness, there is a little something for everybody. I really liked the fact that it wasn't always the leading man that was a little on the nerdy side, the ladies were as well. As I am familiar with them, enjoyed the short story from Jana Aston, and Sara Ney. There were also plenty of new to me authors I was excited to read.
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology is a great anytime read and a way to get to know several authors at once.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
In this anthology of pure nerdy-ness, there is a little something for everybody. I really liked the fact that it wasn't always the leading man that was a little on the nerdy side, the ladies were as well. As I am familiar with them, enjoyed the short story from Jana Aston, and Sara Ney. There were also plenty of new to me authors I was excited to read.
Smartasses: A Sexy Nerd Rom Com Anthology is a great anytime read and a way to get to know several authors at once.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
March 13, 2025
I’ve been excited to try this collection because it has stories from a lot of authors I’ve wanted to try. I'll add on to this review when I read more.
Central Park by Jana Aston - 3.5 stars? I’m torn. Really interesting idea, mixed execution. Way too many inner thoughts. Absolutely love the MMC though. He’s like if Daniel Cleaver and Mark Darcy combined. There were parts of this I loved, and some very funny moments, it just had too much of the FMC’s inner monologuing, especially in the beginning. I’ll read more from this author.
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev - 3.5 stars? Again, I could round up or down. I had no idea where this was going. It’s a very interesting story, very engaging writing. My issue lies mostly with who Nisha picks, and everything that leads to it. To say I was confused and angry is an understatement. Also, heads up, no smut. Semi spoiler: Call me a grump, I just don’t tend to like second chance romances or childhood friends to lovers.`
Central Park by Jana Aston - 3.5 stars? I’m torn. Really interesting idea, mixed execution. Way too many inner thoughts. Absolutely love the MMC though. He’s like if Daniel Cleaver and Mark Darcy combined. There were parts of this I loved, and some very funny moments, it just had too much of the FMC’s inner monologuing, especially in the beginning. I’ll read more from this author.
The Runaway Bride by Sonali Dev - 3.5 stars? Again, I could round up or down. I had no idea where this was going. It’s a very interesting story, very engaging writing. My issue lies mostly with who Nisha picks, and everything that leads to it. To say I was confused and angry is an understatement. Also, heads up, no smut. Semi spoiler: Call me a grump, I just don’t tend to like second chance romances or childhood friends to lovers.`
August 16, 2022
This anthology is absolutely fantastic. Filled to the brim with incredibly talented authors, I could not resist any of the stories. Each author has a distinctive style, but they all share the skill of writing brilliant, quirky characters, fabulous, witty dialogue and a sense for the absurd and, sometimes downright ridiculous, that has me laughing and feeling great each and every time. I decided with each book that, oh yes this is my favourite, but, in the final analysis, they all are. Pant stealing, dog loving, amateur actors, snowed in, chafed thighs and all, this anthology is the answer to all that ails you and the perfect antidote to any shade of the blues! Perfect reading 💖💖💖💖💖
August 20, 2022
Not Just a Crush by Helena Hunting
I absolutely love this short story. Dahlia gets stuck in cabin during a snow storm and when she gets rescued she never thought it would be her HS crush. Dahlia & Conrad together is amazing and I wanted more. Another great read by Helena that I really enjoyed.
Central Park by Jana Aston
Omg I absolutely love Mason & Liberty. This was a short,sexy and funny read that had me wanting more. Another amazing read by Jana that I couldn’t get enough of.
I absolutely love this short story. Dahlia gets stuck in cabin during a snow storm and when she gets rescued she never thought it would be her HS crush. Dahlia & Conrad together is amazing and I wanted more. Another great read by Helena that I really enjoyed.
Central Park by Jana Aston
Omg I absolutely love Mason & Liberty. This was a short,sexy and funny read that had me wanting more. Another amazing read by Jana that I couldn’t get enough of.
August 22, 2022
Okay, so this anthology had me cracking from the first story of stealing pants to the last story of fake dates. These hottie nerds will leave you wanting much more than just the laughs. You can put yourself in the shoes of these women and want a nerd of your own. Fall in love with these couples and their friends that are just as fun.
August 15, 2022
Anthologies are always great, but this one is at the top of my list. I love a sexy nerd (I married one after all) and these stories were so enjoyable. There's variety and laugh out loud moments with, of course, sexy times! You have to read this anthology!! A couple of my favorites were Central Park by Jana Aston and Not a Crush by Helena Hunting.
December 27, 2022
4 stars.
This Helena Hunting novella was a delightful, short but sweet read on Christmas Eve. Exactly what I was looking for. To be honest I would have loved to have read a full length book on these characters and that’s the only reason I can’t give it 5 stars.
This Helena Hunting novella was a delightful, short but sweet read on Christmas Eve. Exactly what I was looking for. To be honest I would have loved to have read a full length book on these characters and that’s the only reason I can’t give it 5 stars.
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