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Under the Influence
Will dislike at first sight turn into the trip of a lifetime? A sparkling enemies-to-lovers rom com from the author of Duck a l'Orange for Breakfast.
From Peru with love, (wander)lust & loathing…
Blake Goldfield is ‘the guy who broke Tinder’ while raising funds for his overseas charity. High-flying banker, Louise Lane, isn’t buying his hot, eligible philanthropist act. In fact, it’s dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party.
Both are at a life Blake has begrudgingly left his not-for-profit to deal with Goldies, his family’s embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect-on-paper fiancé.
Blake may be in control of the drinks, but Louise has the power to reject the loan necessary to keep Goldies open…
As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart’s desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First Machu Picchu. Final Love?
A sparkling enemies-to-lovers rom com about the things we want, the things we think we want and the things that really count.
From Peru with love, (wander)lust & loathing…
Blake Goldfield is ‘the guy who broke Tinder’ while raising funds for his overseas charity. High-flying banker, Louise Lane, isn’t buying his hot, eligible philanthropist act. In fact, it’s dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party.
Both are at a life Blake has begrudgingly left his not-for-profit to deal with Goldies, his family’s embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect-on-paper fiancé.
Blake may be in control of the drinks, but Louise has the power to reject the loan necessary to keep Goldies open…
As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart’s desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First Machu Picchu. Final Love?
A sparkling enemies-to-lovers rom com about the things we want, the things we think we want and the things that really count.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2022
3 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Karina May
4 books94 followersSydney-based, Karina May, is a former magazine journalist turned digital marketer, avid romance reader and writer of lively love stories that span the
globe.
When she’s not dreaming up her next shirtless love interest, you’ll likely find her rescuing her kindle from the bath, or out guzzling espresso martinis in the
name of research (someone’s gotta do it!)
globe.
When she’s not dreaming up her next shirtless love interest, you’ll likely find her rescuing her kindle from the bath, or out guzzling espresso martinis in the
name of research (someone’s gotta do it!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
September 25, 2022
When I read the blurb on this book, I thought it would be a fun read, set mostly in my home town of Sydney and Peru, we meet Louise and Blake both are having problems in their lives and are looking to sort things out, can they do it together?
Blake runs a not for profit charity organisation in Peru and has returned home when his father becomes ill to manage the family bar Goldies, what he finds is a company in need of help, which is not going to be easy.
Louise works for a bank and is in charge of approving loans she is engaged and her and her fiancé are trying for a baby, things are not going the best and emotions are running high and Louise is soon single.
Blake and Louise meet at Goldies and there is instant dislike between them but life brings them together and Louise can either help Blake or not, throw in Tom another business owner and things start to heat up, will they sort their lives out and find love?
I struggled with this book, I didn’t connect with either Blake or Louise sadly, there are some great reviews for this book, but it wasn’t for me, it is well written and I am sure there will be lots of people who love it.
2.5 stars
My thanks to Netgalley for my copy to read andreview
Blake runs a not for profit charity organisation in Peru and has returned home when his father becomes ill to manage the family bar Goldies, what he finds is a company in need of help, which is not going to be easy.
Louise works for a bank and is in charge of approving loans she is engaged and her and her fiancé are trying for a baby, things are not going the best and emotions are running high and Louise is soon single.
Blake and Louise meet at Goldies and there is instant dislike between them but life brings them together and Louise can either help Blake or not, throw in Tom another business owner and things start to heat up, will they sort their lives out and find love?
I struggled with this book, I didn’t connect with either Blake or Louise sadly, there are some great reviews for this book, but it wasn’t for me, it is well written and I am sure there will be lots of people who love it.
2.5 stars
My thanks to Netgalley for my copy to read andreview
July 25, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! It was a feel good romance book, but the characters were so fleshed out and had great substance. Louise Lane is a career woman at a crossroads in her life, Blake is local bar owner and water philanthropist in Peru. Though a series of events then end up running into each other over and over and grow into their true selves together.
July 17, 2022
3.25/5 stars!
I was captivated by the cover and blurb of this book and especially because of the female main characters name, which was Louise Lane. On top of that she had an upper hand on Blake Goldfield, the bartender whom she met at her office party because she was the one who was going to decide if his loan should be approved for keeping his father's restaurant afloat, being in huge amount of debt. But I couldn't help but feel that the part was glossed over. The plot was cute, I liked the idea of Blake and Louise touring the sites of Peru together but the ending was definitely disappointing. It was more of telling rather than showing and the side characters also failed to leave much of an impression on me tbh.
Thank You NetGalley and Escape Publishing for providing me the ARC in exchange of an honest review
I was captivated by the cover and blurb of this book and especially because of the female main characters name, which was Louise Lane. On top of that she had an upper hand on Blake Goldfield, the bartender whom she met at her office party because she was the one who was going to decide if his loan should be approved for keeping his father's restaurant afloat, being in huge amount of debt. But I couldn't help but feel that the part was glossed over. The plot was cute, I liked the idea of Blake and Louise touring the sites of Peru together but the ending was definitely disappointing. It was more of telling rather than showing and the side characters also failed to leave much of an impression on me tbh.
Thank You NetGalley and Escape Publishing for providing me the ARC in exchange of an honest review
August 11, 2022
Under the Influence
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 9/1/22
Author: Karina May
Publisher: HarperCollins
Pages: 272
Goodreads Rating: 3.30
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and HarperCollins and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Blake Goldfield is 'the guy who broke Tinder' while raising funds for his overseas charity. High-flying banker, Louise Lane, is dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party. Both are at a life crossroads: Blake has begrudgingly left his not-for-profit to deal with Goldies, his family's embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect-on-paper fiance. As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart's desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First stop: Machu Picchu. Final destination: Love?
My Thoughts: What drew me to this book initially was the cover, how cute is that cover?? This is a classic enemies to lovers trope, which I adore. This was a cute, clean romance that was easy to flow through in just a few sittings, would make this a perfect beach day or rainy day read. The characters had some depth, witty banter, amazing chemistry, and creatively written. The author’s writing style was complex, heartwarming, kept me engaged, and so descriptively set in Sydney, then Peru, that you felt like you were on the journey with Louise and Blake. The witty banter did make me laugh out loud a few times and I just loved the blooming relationship between them. The one con for me was the ending, even though everyone cannot live happily ever after, I still wanted a little more. However, this was a good read and I would recommend purchasing when it comes out in a few weeks.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 9/1/22
Author: Karina May
Publisher: HarperCollins
Pages: 272
Goodreads Rating: 3.30
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and HarperCollins and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Blake Goldfield is 'the guy who broke Tinder' while raising funds for his overseas charity. High-flying banker, Louise Lane, is dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party. Both are at a life crossroads: Blake has begrudgingly left his not-for-profit to deal with Goldies, his family's embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect-on-paper fiance. As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart's desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First stop: Machu Picchu. Final destination: Love?
My Thoughts: What drew me to this book initially was the cover, how cute is that cover?? This is a classic enemies to lovers trope, which I adore. This was a cute, clean romance that was easy to flow through in just a few sittings, would make this a perfect beach day or rainy day read. The characters had some depth, witty banter, amazing chemistry, and creatively written. The author’s writing style was complex, heartwarming, kept me engaged, and so descriptively set in Sydney, then Peru, that you felt like you were on the journey with Louise and Blake. The witty banter did make me laugh out loud a few times and I just loved the blooming relationship between them. The one con for me was the ending, even though everyone cannot live happily ever after, I still wanted a little more. However, this was a good read and I would recommend purchasing when it comes out in a few weeks.
July 19, 2022
I loved this witty, thoroughly relatable rom-com. The classic enemies-to-lovers story is set against a plot grounded in the weight of family expectations, the corrosive impact of secrets, and what happens when life refuses to follow the script you set for yourself.
The chemistry between Louise and Blake is zinging right from the start and I loved following their journey set against the flashy influencer scene in Sydney all the way to beautiful Peru. The vivid scenery matches the vibrant storytelling and the cracking pace had me hooked.
This is such a funny story with genuine LOL-worthy moments, but it's balanced with real heart and emotion as we explore Louise's inner turmoil about her future and the story behind Blake's family trauma. I can't wait to read more from this author!
The chemistry between Louise and Blake is zinging right from the start and I loved following their journey set against the flashy influencer scene in Sydney all the way to beautiful Peru. The vivid scenery matches the vibrant storytelling and the cracking pace had me hooked.
This is such a funny story with genuine LOL-worthy moments, but it's balanced with real heart and emotion as we explore Louise's inner turmoil about her future and the story behind Blake's family trauma. I can't wait to read more from this author!
August 6, 2022
This book was fantastic. Such a great enemies to lovers read. I was rooting for Blake and Louise the entire time and it made me happy seeing how things turned out. Gave me all the feels. The issues that both Blake and Louise had to deal with were all very realistic which also made me enjoy reading this book even more.
July 31, 2022
Ahh, this book left me with alllll the feels! Such a fantastic enemies-to-lovers rom-com.
The pace is a little quick, but I enjoy it when a book gets to the point and resolves quickly. Both main characters, Blake and Louise, have their own problems they are dealing with in relation to family, personal expectations, and societal expectations.
It's truly validating to read a novel that touches on how society expects so much of us and how different individuals handle living their lives in accordance with society or in accordance with their own desires and dreams.
I anticipate this being a fun, light read for those who want a book to leave them floating. I was rooting for Blake and Louise the whole time and the trip to Peru, oh my gosh...incredible. Take me to Machu Picchu now, please.
Thank you Netgalley and Escape Publishing for my eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Under the Influence releases on September 1, 2022!
My blog post will be posted on 8/2/2022 at www.jourdanawebber.com/blog
Instagram will post on 8/2/2022 www.instagram.com/jourdanawebber
The pace is a little quick, but I enjoy it when a book gets to the point and resolves quickly. Both main characters, Blake and Louise, have their own problems they are dealing with in relation to family, personal expectations, and societal expectations.
It's truly validating to read a novel that touches on how society expects so much of us and how different individuals handle living their lives in accordance with society or in accordance with their own desires and dreams.
I anticipate this being a fun, light read for those who want a book to leave them floating. I was rooting for Blake and Louise the whole time and the trip to Peru, oh my gosh...incredible. Take me to Machu Picchu now, please.
Thank you Netgalley and Escape Publishing for my eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Under the Influence releases on September 1, 2022!
My blog post will be posted on 8/2/2022 at www.jourdanawebber.com/blog
Instagram will post on 8/2/2022 www.instagram.com/jourdanawebber
August 23, 2022
Under the Influence, the debut novel by Karina May, is a fun, thoughtful story about two people brought together at the right time- just when they needed each other, yet didn't know it- despite their first meeting being a less than stellar situation. The road to a relationship between Louise and Blake is a true journey, both physically as well as metaphorically, and I found it to be an enjoyable, poignant, sweet story. The author did a good job with both dialogue and descriptions, and I look forward to reading her work in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me early access to this title in exchange for my own, unbiased review.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me early access to this title in exchange for my own, unbiased review.
July 21, 2022
I grabbed this one because of the cover and I am so glad I did. This was such a cute story. I think that if you are just looking for something simple and cute with a little drama and some romance than check this one out.
October 3, 2023
If you’re a sucker for an enemies-to-lovers story like me (think Christina Lauren or Alice Clayton vibes) you need to add Under the Influence to your must-read list!
What I loved most about this book is that while it was fun and cute, it was also sassy, fresh and full of real-life messiness. Another highlight was the chemistry between the main characters, Louise and Blake - boy, did they give good banter. Throw in sharp, witty writing, great pacing and beautifully vivid descriptions throughout, and this fun escapist read is an easy 5/5 for me.
What I loved most about this book is that while it was fun and cute, it was also sassy, fresh and full of real-life messiness. Another highlight was the chemistry between the main characters, Louise and Blake - boy, did they give good banter. Throw in sharp, witty writing, great pacing and beautifully vivid descriptions throughout, and this fun escapist read is an easy 5/5 for me.
July 21, 2022
I think I just found my new favourite writer - I've loved this one!
July 29, 2022
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
2.5 stars
Somehow, the pacing of this book just didn't sit well with me - and it didn't really feel like the romance aspect was particularly developed. I didn't really end up relating to either of our MCs either, but I definitely feel like that was a me problem rather than a book problem.
2.5 stars
Somehow, the pacing of this book just didn't sit well with me - and it didn't really feel like the romance aspect was particularly developed. I didn't really end up relating to either of our MCs either, but I definitely feel like that was a me problem rather than a book problem.
July 14, 2022
Blake Goldfield is 'the guy who broke Tinder' while raising funds for his overseas charity. High flying banker, Louise Lane, isn't buying his hot, eligible philanthropist act. In fact, it's dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party.
Both are at a life crossroads: Blake has begrudgingly left his not for profit to deal with Goldies, his family's embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect on paper fiance.
Blake may be in control of the drinks, but Louise has the power to reject the loan necessary to keep Goldies open...
As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart's desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First stop: Machu Picchu. Final destination: Love?
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Escape Publishing
Blake Goldfield is 'the guy who broke Tinder' while raising funds for his overseas charity. High flying banker, Louise Lane, isn't buying his hot, eligible philanthropist act. In fact, it's dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party.
Both are at a life crossroads: Blake has begrudgingly left his not for profit to deal with Goldies, his family's embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect on paper fiance.
Blake may be in control of the drinks, but Louise has the power to reject the loan necessary to keep Goldies open...
As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart's desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First stop: Machu Picchu. Final destination: Love?
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Escape Publishing
I just reviewed Under the Influence by Karina May. #UndertheInfluence #NetGalley
Both are at a life crossroads: Blake has begrudgingly left his not for profit to deal with Goldies, his family's embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect on paper fiance.
Blake may be in control of the drinks, but Louise has the power to reject the loan necessary to keep Goldies open...
As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart's desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First stop: Machu Picchu. Final destination: Love?
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Escape Publishing
Blake Goldfield is 'the guy who broke Tinder' while raising funds for his overseas charity. High flying banker, Louise Lane, isn't buying his hot, eligible philanthropist act. In fact, it's dislike at first sight when she encounters Blake working the bar at her office Christmas party.
Both are at a life crossroads: Blake has begrudgingly left his not for profit to deal with Goldies, his family's embattled restaurant; Louise has just split from her perfect on paper fiance.
Blake may be in control of the drinks, but Louise has the power to reject the loan necessary to keep Goldies open...
As Blake and Louise watch their lives unravel, their paths seem to be inextricably tangled. Torn between the weight of expectation and her heart's desire, Louise searches for a fresh perspective in Peru. First stop: Machu Picchu. Final destination: Love?
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Escape Publishing
I just reviewed Under the Influence by Karina May. #UndertheInfluence #NetGalley
September 2, 2022
HOLY ENEMIES TO LOVERS KIND OF WORK ROMANCE WOWZA
224 pages of absolute nonstop all the time unable to stop page turning.
Karina May, this is the first book I'm reading from you, but it certainly won't be the last.
224 pages of absolute nonstop all the time unable to stop page turning.
Karina May, this is the first book I'm reading from you, but it certainly won't be the last.
August 6, 2022
For lovers of Christina Lauren and Holly Wainwright.
Thank you Escape for my ARC for an honest review.
I loved the premise of this book and the high stakes, as I do love a good enemies to lovers story and I’m always excited to find a new exciting author to read and Karina May has been added to my list of favourite authors.
May had me laughing out loud from the very beginning and that didn’t stop. The writing is sharp, witty with characters well fleshed out and you get a great sense of who they are as individuals. A fresh, new voice, this author is sure to stand out on the shelves. Although not written in a traditional rom com format, hang in there because it is well worth the wait and you won’t be able to put it down!
If you’re looking for something fun that’s easy to read, I highly recommend.
Thank you Escape for my ARC for an honest review.
I loved the premise of this book and the high stakes, as I do love a good enemies to lovers story and I’m always excited to find a new exciting author to read and Karina May has been added to my list of favourite authors.
May had me laughing out loud from the very beginning and that didn’t stop. The writing is sharp, witty with characters well fleshed out and you get a great sense of who they are as individuals. A fresh, new voice, this author is sure to stand out on the shelves. Although not written in a traditional rom com format, hang in there because it is well worth the wait and you won’t be able to put it down!
If you’re looking for something fun that’s easy to read, I highly recommend.
August 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this smart, slow-burn romance that combined plenty of laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional depth. Louise was such a likeable and relatable character, and Blake had my heart fluttering. I swooned, I snort-laughed, and I smiled. Can’t wait to read more by Karina May!
July 21, 2022
I had read about 5% of the book when I realised that I liked neither the characters, nor the writing style, and that I would not end up enjoying this book. Since I feel guilty dnf‘ing ARCs I decided to skim through the book until the end though.
As I already mentioned, I didn’t like the main characters.
The heroine Louise spent a gap year in Germany over 15 years ago, and she won’t let the reader forget about it. It was annoying. She also drinks a lot of alcohol during the book, and while I personally don’t care wether a character drinks alcohol or not, the amount of it seemed a bit excessive here.
The hero, Blake, was incredibly judgemental of everyone, which made him absolutely unlikable for me. I also felt like he had a bit of a white saviour thing going on, and while the heroine comments on it during the story, it doesn’t really get addressed in a deeper sense.
So overall this book just really wasn’t for me, and had I not been given a free copy I wouldn’t have bothered to finish reading it.
[I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.]
As I already mentioned, I didn’t like the main characters.
The heroine Louise spent a gap year in Germany over 15 years ago, and she won’t let the reader forget about it. It was annoying. She also drinks a lot of alcohol during the book, and while I personally don’t care wether a character drinks alcohol or not, the amount of it seemed a bit excessive here.
The hero, Blake, was incredibly judgemental of everyone, which made him absolutely unlikable for me. I also felt like he had a bit of a white saviour thing going on, and while the heroine comments on it during the story, it doesn’t really get addressed in a deeper sense.
So overall this book just really wasn’t for me, and had I not been given a free copy I wouldn’t have bothered to finish reading it.
[I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.]
August 29, 2022
Okay, this one is a tough one because this had such potential to be great! Louise needs a break after trying IVF with her now ex boyfriend and never getting pregnant and Blake is stressed out after having to sell his family business, being involved in a Tinder scandal involving his charity water project and just wants a chance to makes things right and buy back the business.
Louise and Blake have several interactions and then more formally meet when Louise is a banker Blake sees to try to get back the family business to no avail. So he teams up begrudgingly with an influencer he knows on a trip to Peru (which Louise also happens to win a free spot on) to help out his charity water project. The influencer is selfish and entitled and cares only about appearances for Instagram which enrages Louise when they didn’t book the tickets that were promised to explore Mach Pichu and they can’t get in for another two weeks (after the trip is over).
Louise and Blake have a slow burn to start liking each other throughout this novel which is fine and their chemistry is fine but there are so many plot points that are never summed up and the ending is so abrupt it’s jarring, leaving the reader scratching their head and wondering how the characters even got to the point they are at the six months in the future.
Louise’s IVF journey is never resolved we never find out if she still wants to try with Blake now or if she decided she doesn’t want children or anything at all, we have no idea how Blake and Louise finally become a couple there’s no explanation at all for how Blake buys the business back it’s just suddenly theirs in the future, it felt like the editor left out the entire third act of the book. Because what????
2 stars
⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Louise and Blake have several interactions and then more formally meet when Louise is a banker Blake sees to try to get back the family business to no avail. So he teams up begrudgingly with an influencer he knows on a trip to Peru (which Louise also happens to win a free spot on) to help out his charity water project. The influencer is selfish and entitled and cares only about appearances for Instagram which enrages Louise when they didn’t book the tickets that were promised to explore Mach Pichu and they can’t get in for another two weeks (after the trip is over).
Louise and Blake have a slow burn to start liking each other throughout this novel which is fine and their chemistry is fine but there are so many plot points that are never summed up and the ending is so abrupt it’s jarring, leaving the reader scratching their head and wondering how the characters even got to the point they are at the six months in the future.
Louise’s IVF journey is never resolved we never find out if she still wants to try with Blake now or if she decided she doesn’t want children or anything at all, we have no idea how Blake and Louise finally become a couple there’s no explanation at all for how Blake buys the business back it’s just suddenly theirs in the future, it felt like the editor left out the entire third act of the book. Because what????
2 stars
⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
took me way too long to figure out out that louise and blake were a Dc Superman reference. I mean how cute is that???? Blake who looks like Clark Kent and Louise Lane ( lois lane😧😧😧).
I feel like this book had lots of potential especially when the were both in Peru, a lot of tension and angst could have been built which would have then lead to a magnificent slow burn.
The writing style also could have been better. There were times where perspectives would change unexpectedly in the most random places which did not make sense to me.
I really wished we could have explored Louise and Blake more as a couple as they only got together in the last chapter!!!! They had way too much potential.
Overall this was a decent read. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with this arc :)
I feel like this book had lots of potential especially when the were both in Peru, a lot of tension and angst could have been built which would have then lead to a magnificent slow burn.
The writing style also could have been better. There were times where perspectives would change unexpectedly in the most random places which did not make sense to me.
I really wished we could have explored Louise and Blake more as a couple as they only got together in the last chapter!!!! They had way too much potential.
Overall this was a decent read. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with this arc :)
August 30, 2022
First and foremost, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL COVER. LOOK AT THATTTTT sfkfjskjfsjf
Obviously, I am disappointed with this book because it sounds so good, especially the synopsis, but it turns out that the synopsis and the cover are the only enjoyable aspects of it.
Aside from the unlikable characters and the lack of chemistry, I'm hoping it improves because I was expecting this to be an enemies-to-lovers story, but NOPE.
I suppose the writing is only tolerable here, but there is also some ambiguity in the story's execution making it hard to follow.
WELP
Thank you for the e-ARC, NetGalley.-
Obviously, I am disappointed with this book because it sounds so good, especially the synopsis, but it turns out that the synopsis and the cover are the only enjoyable aspects of it.
Aside from the unlikable characters and the lack of chemistry, I'm hoping it improves because I was expecting this to be an enemies-to-lovers story, but NOPE.
I suppose the writing is only tolerable here, but there is also some ambiguity in the story's execution making it hard to follow.
WELP
Thank you for the e-ARC, NetGalley.-
September 4, 2022
This book is everything to love about romance— the enemies to lovers trope never gets old. High-powered super organised financier Louise Lane meets handsome blue-eyed glasses wearing Blake – the man who broke Tinder. Louise isn’t convinced that his philanthropic image of bottled water for Peruvians is totally honourable, assuming the nightclub owner’s son’s intentions are misplaced. But neither character is honest from the beginning about the dramas in their family lives, and that’s how the fun begins.
Louise is delightful— uptight, engaged, clever and torn between achieving in her career at Robo Bank where she is stressed and overworked, or trying to beat the clock and her low infertility as she swings one last chance to have children.
Meanwhile, Blake has just lost the dad he believed was unfaithful to his family and is trying to clean up the nightclub finances for his mother. There’s more to him too, but Louise is yet to see it until they collide yet again, in Peru.
A trek to Machu Picchu for a photo opp with an influencer named Feather, and a cataclysmic breakup between Louise and her partner who are trying for a baby, are the kind of highlights that set the flavour of this story.
But there’s a lot of depth in this fast-paced Rom-Com. When the two meet, sparks fly in multiple directions, and it sparkles on the page too— the great banter between the characters and settings of Sydney and Peru —so wonderfully descriptive, are a delight to read.
Will Louise and Blake see something deeper beneath the armoury of attitude they wear as protection?
Louise is delightful— uptight, engaged, clever and torn between achieving in her career at Robo Bank where she is stressed and overworked, or trying to beat the clock and her low infertility as she swings one last chance to have children.
Meanwhile, Blake has just lost the dad he believed was unfaithful to his family and is trying to clean up the nightclub finances for his mother. There’s more to him too, but Louise is yet to see it until they collide yet again, in Peru.
A trek to Machu Picchu for a photo opp with an influencer named Feather, and a cataclysmic breakup between Louise and her partner who are trying for a baby, are the kind of highlights that set the flavour of this story.
But there’s a lot of depth in this fast-paced Rom-Com. When the two meet, sparks fly in multiple directions, and it sparkles on the page too— the great banter between the characters and settings of Sydney and Peru —so wonderfully descriptive, are a delight to read.
Will Louise and Blake see something deeper beneath the armoury of attitude they wear as protection?
September 12, 2022
Based on the cover this book was not what I was expecting, but I was more than pleasantly surprised. This was such a feel good story and I truly loved every minute of it. Louise and Blake’s constant run ins and hatred turned romance was fun to read and all of the characters in the story had to much depth and development. I also found the influencer trip aspect so interesting to read about since they’re so prevalent on social media these days. I loved this book and would highly recommend it!
July 20, 2022
Loved this book! The witty banter had me laughing out loud, and I thoroughly enjoyed the Peruvian experience. Would definitely recommend and look forward to reading more from this author!
November 13, 2022
Thanks to Escape Publishing, Netgalley and the author for an ARC of this book - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm a bit behind on this review - I read this book last month and then forgot to review it! I think it's because I enjoyed it so much and I wanted to wait a while before I could review it to get all my thoughts down. It was a quick read as well and fast-paced.
First of all, I have to say, that enemies to lovers is not usually something I enjoy overly. Sometimes it can be overdone and leaves the reader wondering what the couple see in each other if they dislike each other so much.
But the instant snark in this book is so funny and enjoyable, that I could instantly see that it was a prelude to love.
This is really well-written and Blake and Louise are such great characters.
Also, Peru, I really need to go there.
I expect I'll be reading a lot more from this author.
I'm a bit behind on this review - I read this book last month and then forgot to review it! I think it's because I enjoyed it so much and I wanted to wait a while before I could review it to get all my thoughts down. It was a quick read as well and fast-paced.
First of all, I have to say, that enemies to lovers is not usually something I enjoy overly. Sometimes it can be overdone and leaves the reader wondering what the couple see in each other if they dislike each other so much.
But the instant snark in this book is so funny and enjoyable, that I could instantly see that it was a prelude to love.
This is really well-written and Blake and Louise are such great characters.
Also, Peru, I really need to go there.
I expect I'll be reading a lot more from this author.
September 30, 2022
Blake Goldfield is ‘the guy who broke Tinder’ while raising funds for his charity. His friend is actually the one who made the Tinder page for him. Louise Lane is a banker who is overworked. These two clash almost immediately when they meet at Louise’s office party. They continue to bump into each other and eventually start to like seeing each other and find themselves actually seeking each other out.
Louise has a lot of personal things going on and finds herself wanting to take a break from work. So when her friend enters her in a contest to win a trip to Machu Picchu and she wins, she’s kind of excited to go. Blake is also going on the trip because a friend of the family organized the trip with him. They will go and see some sights and also do some volunteer work for Blake’s overseas charity. During the trip, Blake and Louise get closer and we get to see Blake be kind of jealous and super cute.
I loved seeing their relationship blossom, it was so cute. By the end of the book I had tears in my eyes, happy tears and tears because I wanted more for them. But even though I was hoping for more, I thought the ending was perfect as it was because sometimes no matter how much or how hard you wish for something it doesn’t come true. That’s life and life is about adapting to things that can’t be changed, so I loved the ending. I’m sure little Kent is adorable and I love how they gave him a Superman themed name to go with Louise (Lois) Lane and Blake who looks like Clark Kent. This book was absolutely adorable!
Louise has a lot of personal things going on and finds herself wanting to take a break from work. So when her friend enters her in a contest to win a trip to Machu Picchu and she wins, she’s kind of excited to go. Blake is also going on the trip because a friend of the family organized the trip with him. They will go and see some sights and also do some volunteer work for Blake’s overseas charity. During the trip, Blake and Louise get closer and we get to see Blake be kind of jealous and super cute.
I loved seeing their relationship blossom, it was so cute. By the end of the book I had tears in my eyes, happy tears and tears because I wanted more for them. But even though I was hoping for more, I thought the ending was perfect as it was because sometimes no matter how much or how hard you wish for something it doesn’t come true. That’s life and life is about adapting to things that can’t be changed, so I loved the ending. I’m sure little Kent is adorable and I love how they gave him a Superman themed name to go with Louise (Lois) Lane and Blake who looks like Clark Kent. This book was absolutely adorable!
February 9, 2026
⛰️Under the Influence by Karina May⛰️
Consider this a petition for Escape Publishing / Harper Collins to bring this back out in paperback please! I love Karina’s books so much and NEED a physical copy of this beauty 😍
Five stars for emotional growth, wanderlust, and romantic tension done right! 🥰🩷
Our FMC Louise is tightly wound in a way that feels earned, not annoying, and watching her worldview gradually loosen is so deeply satisfying. Blake, meanwhile, is far more than his public persona suggests. He is warm, messy, and quietly carrying the weight of expectation. The connection between them unfolds naturally, grounded in shared vulnerability and a quiet sweetness.
I love the way Karina weaves travel into all of her books. The Peru setting adds richness without overwhelming the story. Her writing is sharp, funny, and emotionally perceptive, making this far more than a breezy rom-com. It is thoughtful without being heavy, romantic without being unrealistic, and utterly bingeable. I closed the book smiling and resisting the urge to book a plane ticket to Peru hehehe 🙈😜
This book made me smile, sigh, and quietly rethink my own life plans. Obsessed 😍📚
Consider this a petition for Escape Publishing / Harper Collins to bring this back out in paperback please! I love Karina’s books so much and NEED a physical copy of this beauty 😍
Five stars for emotional growth, wanderlust, and romantic tension done right! 🥰🩷
Our FMC Louise is tightly wound in a way that feels earned, not annoying, and watching her worldview gradually loosen is so deeply satisfying. Blake, meanwhile, is far more than his public persona suggests. He is warm, messy, and quietly carrying the weight of expectation. The connection between them unfolds naturally, grounded in shared vulnerability and a quiet sweetness.
I love the way Karina weaves travel into all of her books. The Peru setting adds richness without overwhelming the story. Her writing is sharp, funny, and emotionally perceptive, making this far more than a breezy rom-com. It is thoughtful without being heavy, romantic without being unrealistic, and utterly bingeable. I closed the book smiling and resisting the urge to book a plane ticket to Peru hehehe 🙈😜
This book made me smile, sigh, and quietly rethink my own life plans. Obsessed 😍📚
September 9, 2022
Ever come across those books where you love it so much, you have to exercise all restrain to not binge read the entire thing in one sitting? This book has me devouring every page so much, that I have to ration myself.
Karina May has this beautiful style of writing. It's as if you're behind the curtains of fate, secretly willing the two main characters Louise and Blake to cross paths. Along their journeys are the 'will-they' or 'won't they' twists and turns, which sucks you deeper into their worlds.
Witty Louise with her 'punch you in the face' reality of what it's like to be a woman in her mid 30s and Blake who's doing life his way, are both charming and relatable.
I don't write reviews midway through books. I usually reserve my judgement to the end, but this book has got me invested.
Karina May has this beautiful style of writing. It's as if you're behind the curtains of fate, secretly willing the two main characters Louise and Blake to cross paths. Along their journeys are the 'will-they' or 'won't they' twists and turns, which sucks you deeper into their worlds.
Witty Louise with her 'punch you in the face' reality of what it's like to be a woman in her mid 30s and Blake who's doing life his way, are both charming and relatable.
I don't write reviews midway through books. I usually reserve my judgement to the end, but this book has got me invested.
August 31, 2022
2.5 stars
Dnf at 78%.
I thought this story's plot was very interesting, so I was excited to read it, but the main problem I had with it was the pacing and the format of the book. Now I understand that arcs are not the final draft, but for the edition I read, many times, especially in the beginning, there were no indents, and the text was all in left alignment, and it just made it very difficult to read and follow along, and that made me want to put it down constantly.
So, honestly, I did not have a problem with the story and the book's plot itself, it was more about how the book was put together, so I would consider reading the book once it is officially out!
thanks netgalley & escape publishing for the e-arc!! :)
Dnf at 78%.
I thought this story's plot was very interesting, so I was excited to read it, but the main problem I had with it was the pacing and the format of the book. Now I understand that arcs are not the final draft, but for the edition I read, many times, especially in the beginning, there were no indents, and the text was all in left alignment, and it just made it very difficult to read and follow along, and that made me want to put it down constantly.
So, honestly, I did not have a problem with the story and the book's plot itself, it was more about how the book was put together, so I would consider reading the book once it is officially out!
thanks netgalley & escape publishing for the e-arc!! :)
August 26, 2022
This is a fun, sweet and sometimes a little bit confused book about two people brought together in the right time. But they don’t know it. I laugh a lot with the main character name Louise Lane, she is like the Superman one in my mind.
Louise and Blake like a couple are so enjoyable, I love this book was set in Sydney, that was refreshing, and even if i think some questions stay unanswered was a good reading. I learn a lot about what really can make a people happy in the end.
The best part for me was the part in Peru… is my dream travel location and this books just confirm that.
Thank you NetGalley and kindly for providing me with an ARC for my honest opinion.
Louise and Blake like a couple are so enjoyable, I love this book was set in Sydney, that was refreshing, and even if i think some questions stay unanswered was a good reading. I learn a lot about what really can make a people happy in the end.
The best part for me was the part in Peru… is my dream travel location and this books just confirm that.
Thank you NetGalley and kindly for providing me with an ARC for my honest opinion.
October 1, 2022
Super cute fun short read. I loved Louise and Blake's story. The trip to Peru & of course all of the Superman innuendos. This is definitely something I would recommend all my rom com lovers to pick up if they're looking for something short and sweet :)
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