What do you think?
Rate this book
Heather Bay #2
Like I Wished
Dreaming about my best friend’s brother is one thing, him actually falling for me is another.
Baking cupcakes for the science department bake-off shouldn’t strike fear into the heart of chemistry teacher Noah, but his previous record hasn’t exactly been glowing. In an attempt to stave off another year in last place, Noah turns to the one man who might be able to help him: his best friend’s older brother, Spencer.
Noah’s had a crush on the vibrant and sporty footballer turned baker for years, but the chances of anything happening between them are slim to none. Spencer is caring, funny, gorgeous… and totally straight.
Spencer has never thought about dating men before, but after watching Noah lick buttercream off a whisk he’s suddenly realising he’s not as straight as previously thought.
Revelations about his sexuality are one thing, but his footballing past being dragged into the present is another and Spencer isn’t sure which is more stressful. But he’s sure about one thing: he wants Noah in his life. Now all they have to do is figure out how to make their wishes come true.
Like I Wished is a hot and heart-warming best friend’s brother contemporary MM romance featuring adorable ghost cupcakes, a bisexual awakening over biscuits, gate-crashed first dates, gym-bro besties, and lots of hot chocolate.
It is book two in the Heather Bay series and while it can be read as a standalone, it’s best enjoyed as part of the series.
Baking cupcakes for the science department bake-off shouldn’t strike fear into the heart of chemistry teacher Noah, but his previous record hasn’t exactly been glowing. In an attempt to stave off another year in last place, Noah turns to the one man who might be able to help him: his best friend’s older brother, Spencer.
Noah’s had a crush on the vibrant and sporty footballer turned baker for years, but the chances of anything happening between them are slim to none. Spencer is caring, funny, gorgeous… and totally straight.
Spencer has never thought about dating men before, but after watching Noah lick buttercream off a whisk he’s suddenly realising he’s not as straight as previously thought.
Revelations about his sexuality are one thing, but his footballing past being dragged into the present is another and Spencer isn’t sure which is more stressful. But he’s sure about one thing: he wants Noah in his life. Now all they have to do is figure out how to make their wishes come true.
Like I Wished is a hot and heart-warming best friend’s brother contemporary MM romance featuring adorable ghost cupcakes, a bisexual awakening over biscuits, gate-crashed first dates, gym-bro besties, and lots of hot chocolate.
It is book two in the Heather Bay series and while it can be read as a standalone, it’s best enjoyed as part of the series.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2022
150 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Novak
64 books589 followersCharlie lives in England with her husband and a dachshund named Biscuit. She spends most of her days wrangling other people’s words in her day job and then trying to force her own onto the page in the evening.
She loves cute stories with a healthy dollop of fluff, plenty of delicious sex, and happily ever afters – because the world needs more of them. Charlie also believes that love comes in all shapes and sizes.
Charlie has very little spare time, but what she does have she fills with cooking, pole-dancing, reading and ice-hockey. She also thinks that everyone should have at least one favourite dinosaur…
She loves cute stories with a healthy dollop of fluff, plenty of delicious sex, and happily ever afters – because the world needs more of them. Charlie also believes that love comes in all shapes and sizes.
Charlie has very little spare time, but what she does have she fills with cooking, pole-dancing, reading and ice-hockey. She also thinks that everyone should have at least one favourite dinosaur…
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
April 28, 2023
This is legit one of the most boring books I've ever read.
Nothing happens. Everything is perfect and easy. No angst, no tension, no arguments, no questioning.
I almost DNF multiple times and finally gave up around 80%.
My god, watching a sloth sleep is more entertaining.
I'm done with this series and this author (this is my third book by Charlie Novak, and every single one has been this monotonous and bland).
Nothing happens. Everything is perfect and easy. No angst, no tension, no arguments, no questioning.
I almost DNF multiple times and finally gave up around 80%.
My god, watching a sloth sleep is more entertaining.
I'm done with this series and this author (this is my third book by Charlie Novak, and every single one has been this monotonous and bland).
October 11, 2022
Sometimes you just want to read a book without any of the angsting, overly dramatic scenarios or unbelievable mess-ups that cause the Third Act break-up.
Well, that's what this book is. Just one giant hug of love from the beginning to the end with only a couple of non-relationship related quibbles which provide a bit of tension in a gentle and completely relatable way.
This is the second full length entry in Charlie's Yorkshire Coast small town set romances and it's more grounded in its roots with a lovely vibe of the type of friendship and family life that is indicative of these close-knit communities.
We got a bit of a glimpse that there might be something going on between Noah and Spencer towards the end of Lane and Oliver's book but here we find out Noah's been crushing on his best mate Alex's older brother since they were teenagers.
There's a few cross-series mentions of some of Charlie's other series', which I really love as I'm a big fan of interconnected universes where the books stand alone but have an Easter Egg feel if you've read the others.
We also get a hint or two about what might be on the cards for a couple of the other men in this gang of old friends and newer incumbents to their little home town and I'm totally down for what I think is going to be one of the pairings!
With the secondary story here focusing on Spencer finally dealing with the injury that halted his professional football career, Noah's fears about his body image, and the bisexual awakening journey Spencer is on, this really is a lovely read and perfect for snuggling up with a blanket and a hot drink and whiling away a few hours.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Well, that's what this book is. Just one giant hug of love from the beginning to the end with only a couple of non-relationship related quibbles which provide a bit of tension in a gentle and completely relatable way.
This is the second full length entry in Charlie's Yorkshire Coast small town set romances and it's more grounded in its roots with a lovely vibe of the type of friendship and family life that is indicative of these close-knit communities.
We got a bit of a glimpse that there might be something going on between Noah and Spencer towards the end of Lane and Oliver's book but here we find out Noah's been crushing on his best mate Alex's older brother since they were teenagers.
There's a few cross-series mentions of some of Charlie's other series', which I really love as I'm a big fan of interconnected universes where the books stand alone but have an Easter Egg feel if you've read the others.
We also get a hint or two about what might be on the cards for a couple of the other men in this gang of old friends and newer incumbents to their little home town and I'm totally down for what I think is going to be one of the pairings!
With the secondary story here focusing on Spencer finally dealing with the injury that halted his professional football career, Noah's fears about his body image, and the bisexual awakening journey Spencer is on, this really is a lovely read and perfect for snuggling up with a blanket and a hot drink and whiling away a few hours.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
February 11, 2024
No angst whatsoever and super cute!
I now have the urge to go find a cafe/bookshop and a pesto chicken sandwich 🤗
Looking forward to Will's book because he seems so much more 'grown up' compared to his friend group, but also super rundown from being a farmer. I'm keen to see who he ends up with.
I now have the urge to go find a cafe/bookshop and a pesto chicken sandwich 🤗
Looking forward to Will's book because he seems so much more 'grown up' compared to his friend group, but also super rundown from being a farmer. I'm keen to see who he ends up with.
August 11, 2024
I usually love everything by this author but this one was a bit of a miss for me. Nothing necessarily bad about it, but it was a bit boring and could have used more plot.
October 18, 2022
I have to recommend Like I Wished by Charlie Novak.
•Low angst/feel good
•UST
•HOT
•Best friend's brother
•Friends to lovers
•Opposites attract
I think I had a smile on my face almost the whole time.
There's no bad guy or drama- just a super sweet love story.
This book felt like a cup of warm cocoa on a rainy day. I felt so comforted by this story. ♡
February 19, 2023
3-
Znowu słodka, znowu przeciętna i znowu raczej nudnawa...
Naciągana trochę ta trójczyna, ale jednak była nieco lepsza, niż pierwsza część, to trzeba to jakoś nagrodzić 😉
Znowu słodka, znowu przeciętna i znowu raczej nudnawa...
Naciągana trochę ta trójczyna, ale jednak była nieco lepsza, niż pierwsza część, to trzeba to jakoś nagrodzić 😉
Read
December 5, 2022Literally gagging from how fucking saccharine this is. Maybe I'm cynical or maybe I want just a sprinkle of angst or drama or SOMETHING besides perfect sumshiney happiness in my books.
I honestly feel like Charlie Novak books have gotten progressively more sweet and syrupy. I also really don't love Dan Calley as a narrator and I don't think that he adds anything to the story. Bring Joel Leslie back for some freaking character dimension please. Anyway just looking back on my own experience reading Charlie Novak books and starting with the roll for love series which is full of cinnamon roll characters but they all have their own things going on and they have their own wit and sarcasm that they bring into the relationships. And then moving on with the pear tree restaurant series books and you have super sweet with strawberry kisses and then you have super angsty with the second one and then middle of the road angst level with spiced kisses. Some of her standalones at least have a little bit of depth whereas this series has been honestly gag inducing sweetness.
You're for real going to tell me that we have a bi awakening and this man does not have a single gay crisis. Not a one. Not about dating his brother's best friend, not about anything sexual, not about coming out, not about anything. This man really said wow I just thought that I looked at guys and that was normal oh I guess I'm bi and locked the door. That was it. And while I'm super happy that it didn't cost him a lot of internal turmoil, I really just don't feel like that's very realistic.
But not only do we have the drama free bisexual awakening, but we also have our bi main character just casually start dating his brother's best friend without any drama not to mention if the other MC started dating his best friends brother there wouldn't have been any sort of fallout? Not even a single conversation of I don't want our relationship to change or stop fucking on the couch You're my brother kind of deal. It was just weird. Maybe I just have very different relationships with my siblings but I swear to God if I walked in on one of them screwing my best friend even if I knew about it I would lose my shit. Get a goddamn room.
The only semi angst we get is a little bit of internalized fat phobia from our fat man character but it was like half-assed at best. Like the one character grabs his stomach and he's like oh no I don't feel sexy and that's it. And then the other character was supposed to be like a pro futball star or something but he hurt his ankle and so there's like this plotline where he wants to join like a recreational team or something and has to go get his ankle looked at but there isnt any sort of angst at all. Even though his sports career had ended years before, you think that would drag up a little bit of pain and suffering. Give me a little bit of pain and suffering!
I feel like this was a middle of the road book for me. It is a problematic it isn't bad, it just wasn't good either. I'm not going to reread it and I don't actively look forward to the other books in the series like I have with Charlie's previous series. The one thing that I did actively enjoy about this book was the baking and I feel like the baking descriptions were really well done. But that's about all I got. I like having a fat character too, don't get me wrong, I just wanted more from every single aspect of the story.
I honestly feel like Charlie Novak books have gotten progressively more sweet and syrupy. I also really don't love Dan Calley as a narrator and I don't think that he adds anything to the story. Bring Joel Leslie back for some freaking character dimension please. Anyway just looking back on my own experience reading Charlie Novak books and starting with the roll for love series which is full of cinnamon roll characters but they all have their own things going on and they have their own wit and sarcasm that they bring into the relationships. And then moving on with the pear tree restaurant series books and you have super sweet with strawberry kisses and then you have super angsty with the second one and then middle of the road angst level with spiced kisses. Some of her standalones at least have a little bit of depth whereas this series has been honestly gag inducing sweetness.
You're for real going to tell me that we have a bi awakening and this man does not have a single gay crisis. Not a one. Not about dating his brother's best friend, not about anything sexual, not about coming out, not about anything. This man really said wow I just thought that I looked at guys and that was normal oh I guess I'm bi and locked the door. That was it. And while I'm super happy that it didn't cost him a lot of internal turmoil, I really just don't feel like that's very realistic.
But not only do we have the drama free bisexual awakening, but we also have our bi main character just casually start dating his brother's best friend without any drama not to mention if the other MC started dating his best friends brother there wouldn't have been any sort of fallout? Not even a single conversation of I don't want our relationship to change or stop fucking on the couch You're my brother kind of deal. It was just weird. Maybe I just have very different relationships with my siblings but I swear to God if I walked in on one of them screwing my best friend even if I knew about it I would lose my shit. Get a goddamn room.
The only semi angst we get is a little bit of internalized fat phobia from our fat man character but it was like half-assed at best. Like the one character grabs his stomach and he's like oh no I don't feel sexy and that's it. And then the other character was supposed to be like a pro futball star or something but he hurt his ankle and so there's like this plotline where he wants to join like a recreational team or something and has to go get his ankle looked at but there isnt any sort of angst at all. Even though his sports career had ended years before, you think that would drag up a little bit of pain and suffering. Give me a little bit of pain and suffering!
I feel like this was a middle of the road book for me. It is a problematic it isn't bad, it just wasn't good either. I'm not going to reread it and I don't actively look forward to the other books in the series like I have with Charlie's previous series. The one thing that I did actively enjoy about this book was the baking and I feel like the baking descriptions were really well done. But that's about all I got. I like having a fat character too, don't get me wrong, I just wanted more from every single aspect of the story.
October 27, 2022
Like I Wished was a truly low angst friends to lovers, best friend's brother bi-awakening story that flowed without intense drama or crisis to bring us a sweet and steamy HEA.
With adorable characters, yummy baking and a writing style that flows effortlessly, if you're looking for a book that has good feels from beginning to end, you'll want to add Like I Wished to your TBR.
This book can be read standalone, but does feature characters who were introduced in Like I Promised and will be enhanced by knowing more about these characters.
With adorable characters, yummy baking and a writing style that flows effortlessly, if you're looking for a book that has good feels from beginning to end, you'll want to add Like I Wished to your TBR.
This book can be read standalone, but does feature characters who were introduced in Like I Promised and will be enhanced by knowing more about these characters.
December 7, 2022
I think it was the book and not me but I am not quiet sure. I felt like there were ten stories told in one book and I was waiting for it to be over. ;(
July 18, 2023
DNF @ 50%
it was boring and the pacing threw me off so much. at 50% i just had to give up from all the cringing
it was boring and the pacing threw me off so much. at 50% i just had to give up from all the cringing
December 5, 2022
Like I Wished is the second book the Heather Bay series by Charlie Novak. This book is about Noah and Spencer. I really liked their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
February 9, 2025
Sweet and cozy, just what I wanted! Cannot wait for Will and Alex's stories.
October 8, 2023
Sugar & Spice and All Things Nice
Noah the Science Teacher and Spencer the ex League Football Player, have always been friendly. Spencer is now Co-owner of Novel Tea Coffee shop and bakery with his brother Alex. Alex is Noah’s very best friend and they share the two bed apartment which is near Novel Tea.
Noah is gay, as is Alex, but Spencer always the straight one of their group of friends, is having doubts about his sexuality. He always takes time to admire his Gym Buddies when their lifting weights, stretching and bending. According to himself, he is just admiring their ‘form’ 😂. Now he is thinking he might be bisexual or even pan.
Noah has been crushing on Spencer since he was 13, he knew nothing would ever happen between them because Spencer is straight.
Everything changed when Noah needed to bake cupcakes and cookies for his Science Team and Spencer offered to give him some lessons.
Well, 2 weeks later, Noah’s came second with his Cupcakes and first in the affection of his long time crush, Spencer.
This time, Noah is teaching Spencer the ins and outs of same sex relationships. Trying to keep everything on the down low from their group of friends is impossible, many of them had been wondering when Noah and Spencer would wake up and realise they were perfect for each other.
**************
I’m reading this Heather Bay series in sequence, Book 1 was 5 stars for me, this one is 3 stars. It was a little bit too sugary sweet and not a lot plot wise, no suspense as to whether ‘will they’, won’t they’ get together.
I’ll continue through the next one and hope for more spark and fireworks.
I’ve read a few other books by Charlie Novak and always enjoy her writing would recommend her stories as well worth reading.
Noah the Science Teacher and Spencer the ex League Football Player, have always been friendly. Spencer is now Co-owner of Novel Tea Coffee shop and bakery with his brother Alex. Alex is Noah’s very best friend and they share the two bed apartment which is near Novel Tea.
Noah is gay, as is Alex, but Spencer always the straight one of their group of friends, is having doubts about his sexuality. He always takes time to admire his Gym Buddies when their lifting weights, stretching and bending. According to himself, he is just admiring their ‘form’ 😂. Now he is thinking he might be bisexual or even pan.
Noah has been crushing on Spencer since he was 13, he knew nothing would ever happen between them because Spencer is straight.
Everything changed when Noah needed to bake cupcakes and cookies for his Science Team and Spencer offered to give him some lessons.
Well, 2 weeks later, Noah’s came second with his Cupcakes and first in the affection of his long time crush, Spencer.
This time, Noah is teaching Spencer the ins and outs of same sex relationships. Trying to keep everything on the down low from their group of friends is impossible, many of them had been wondering when Noah and Spencer would wake up and realise they were perfect for each other.
**************
I’m reading this Heather Bay series in sequence, Book 1 was 5 stars for me, this one is 3 stars. It was a little bit too sugary sweet and not a lot plot wise, no suspense as to whether ‘will they’, won’t they’ get together.
I’ll continue through the next one and hope for more spark and fireworks.
I’ve read a few other books by Charlie Novak and always enjoy her writing would recommend her stories as well worth reading.
October 18, 2024
While I do approve of the undramatic get together, I feel like the book was too undramatic. Spencer has a bisexual awakening and honestly it's like he realised he liked parmesan but having gone his whole life saying he doesn't, i.e. it's so undramatic it gets boring. I don't think any 30 yo who's gone through their life up until that point thinking they're straight is that at ease with their realization but I might be wrong...
This book could've been a 5k short story instead of a book because I feel like nothing exciting happens. Everyone is just happy. Noah is a bit insecure about his body and Spencer is hesitant about playing football again after his injury but they just shrug it off and nothing is a big deal. I was kinda hoping for a car crash or something to make it at least a bit more dramatic. Or just a swift misunderstanding where one sees the other talk with someone and gets jealous for a couple pages before they clear it up but no, nothing happens, not even some internal angst.
The plot gets 2 stars but the writing and the world created gets 3 stars and I usually round up when rating my stories so this story does get 3 stars but barely.
This book could've been a 5k short story instead of a book because I feel like nothing exciting happens. Everyone is just happy. Noah is a bit insecure about his body and Spencer is hesitant about playing football again after his injury but they just shrug it off and nothing is a big deal. I was kinda hoping for a car crash or something to make it at least a bit more dramatic. Or just a swift misunderstanding where one sees the other talk with someone and gets jealous for a couple pages before they clear it up but no, nothing happens, not even some internal angst.
The plot gets 2 stars but the writing and the world created gets 3 stars and I usually round up when rating my stories so this story does get 3 stars but barely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2022
Like I Wished was such a cosy and blissful story! Charlie Novak really writes the sweetest cinnamon characters and I just smiled and swooned through Noah and Spencer's story.
There was so much sweetness and steam in this book and I loved it! Noah was the sweetest character and I loved his confidence with himself, I really appreciated that his body type wasn’t made into a whole thing. We need more diverse bodies and body positivity, and it was so well written here!
Spencer was also a great character and I adored his reaction and thoughts once he realised he was attracted to Noah. The way they communicated and just took it slow and let things happen was perfect. A really enjoyable story, and despite the lack of angst it kept my interest up since I was totally invested in the characters and their relationship.
I was actually surprised by the amount of steam in this story, I didn't expect that level of filth from those characters but, oh my, I wasn’t complaining at all! Those two together were fire! And the dirty talk… so deliciously hot…
A really well written and enjoyable story, and also a great seasonal read as it takes place during the fall - it totally added another layer of cosy to the story! Recommended for when you feel like reading a cosy, sweet and steamy book with no angst.
There was so much sweetness and steam in this book and I loved it! Noah was the sweetest character and I loved his confidence with himself, I really appreciated that his body type wasn’t made into a whole thing. We need more diverse bodies and body positivity, and it was so well written here!
Spencer was also a great character and I adored his reaction and thoughts once he realised he was attracted to Noah. The way they communicated and just took it slow and let things happen was perfect. A really enjoyable story, and despite the lack of angst it kept my interest up since I was totally invested in the characters and their relationship.
I was actually surprised by the amount of steam in this story, I didn't expect that level of filth from those characters but, oh my, I wasn’t complaining at all! Those two together were fire! And the dirty talk… so deliciously hot…
A really well written and enjoyable story, and also a great seasonal read as it takes place during the fall - it totally added another layer of cosy to the story! Recommended for when you feel like reading a cosy, sweet and steamy book with no angst.
November 2, 2022
4.5 stars
Like I Wished is the second book in the Heather Bay series. Noah has had a crush on his best friend’s older brother for years. But Spencer is straight? I loved how Spencer embraced his sexuality. Spence and Noah’s story is sweet with no angst. I freakin love this series, these guys, gah! Overall, a great story, well written with pacing that just flowed.
Like I Wished is the second book in the Heather Bay series. Noah has had a crush on his best friend’s older brother for years. But Spencer is straight? I loved how Spencer embraced his sexuality. Spence and Noah’s story is sweet with no angst. I freakin love this series, these guys, gah! Overall, a great story, well written with pacing that just flowed.
January 25, 2023
Sweet
Noah and Spencer were a sweet couple as these two friends found a natural progression to their friendship to relationship. Spencer's bi-awakening was interesting to watch as his mind opened to some of his past thoughts surrounding men. Noah was a patient man as Spencer worked out his feelings. This is a complete standalone in this series.
Noah and Spencer were a sweet couple as these two friends found a natural progression to their friendship to relationship. Spencer's bi-awakening was interesting to watch as his mind opened to some of his past thoughts surrounding men. Noah was a patient man as Spencer worked out his feelings. This is a complete standalone in this series.
November 19, 2022
3.5 stars. Very low angst and honestly, not much happens. But I do like this author so it worked more than not.
dnf
March 18, 2023Author not for me.
dnf
May 31, 2024DNFd at 63% page 179 on 23.05.2024
Whilst a big fan of low angst and having a long time with the couple once established... there wasn’t enough to keep me invested in this one sadly (and I just made the DNF shelf :/)
- Himbo was not a himbo
- best friend's brother situation is immediately resolved
- they are communicating with each other
- I couldn't see what the remaining 37% could do
Whilst a big fan of low angst and having a long time with the couple once established... there wasn’t enough to keep me invested in this one sadly (and I just made the DNF shelf :/)
- Himbo was not a himbo
- best friend's brother situation is immediately resolved
- they are communicating with each other
- I couldn't see what the remaining 37% could do
May 9, 2025
Wonderful!
Loved this one! One of my favourite troupes, best friend’s brother.
I loved the characters and the town! I want to move there.
Spencer and Noah were so sweet to each other and their friends were wonderful!
Dan Calley narrating just adds another wonderful level to the story! I could listen to him all day!
Highly recommend!
Loved this one! One of my favourite troupes, best friend’s brother.
I loved the characters and the town! I want to move there.
Spencer and Noah were so sweet to each other and their friends were wonderful!
Dan Calley narrating just adds another wonderful level to the story! I could listen to him all day!
Highly recommend!
October 19, 2022
There are a lot of characters in the delightful found family created by Novak for this series, but each is so distinct that they are easy to keep track of. Just a hint of the relationship for this book is teased in the previous, but the events kick off pretty much where the other ended, not giving us time to dwell on the “will they/won’t they” (anyway, this is a romance novel, so we do know that they will). Noah’s crush on his best friend’s older brother, Spencer, is adorable, but in the manner of a quietly long-held adoration that is safe because it will never happen. Spencer is the caretaker sort of friend who will make sure his drunk buddy is looked after as quickly as he’ll offer that same buddy help with a baking project.
Even though they’ve known each other for years, people change during that time. Suddenly, the chemistry also inherent to baking flares between the men. The baking as accidental foreplay is sexy on its own, but Spencer’s personal eureka moment adds that joyful bit of flavor that makes this story a true delight. He experiences less angst than genuine self-examination and curiosity while he has open conversations with friends about what he might be feeling toward Noah, which is no less than Noah deserves in a potential partner. I also appreciate that the men decide to keep whatever might be building between them quiet so that it can develop at its own pace. Their well-intentioned friends immediately ruin their first date, but I loved that the best friend/brother attempts to rectify this in a supportive manner. This is a nice twist to the trope, where too often that character is responsible for the conflict of the story.
Speaking of conflict, this is much more of a slice-of-life arc than an intricate relationship drama. Low angst can be fluffy, but here, it feels much more like reading about real life. Spencer and Noah both have other external concerns they also devote attention to, rather than the entire story being about their developing romance. That being said, I did thoroughly enjoy all the moments that were devoted to said romance!
Novak has a true gift for developing ensemble casts that represent the best aspects of supportive friendships, no matter the gender. I look forward to following along as they all find their person (or finally see the person right in front of them) and also embark on their happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Even though they’ve known each other for years, people change during that time. Suddenly, the chemistry also inherent to baking flares between the men. The baking as accidental foreplay is sexy on its own, but Spencer’s personal eureka moment adds that joyful bit of flavor that makes this story a true delight. He experiences less angst than genuine self-examination and curiosity while he has open conversations with friends about what he might be feeling toward Noah, which is no less than Noah deserves in a potential partner. I also appreciate that the men decide to keep whatever might be building between them quiet so that it can develop at its own pace. Their well-intentioned friends immediately ruin their first date, but I loved that the best friend/brother attempts to rectify this in a supportive manner. This is a nice twist to the trope, where too often that character is responsible for the conflict of the story.
Speaking of conflict, this is much more of a slice-of-life arc than an intricate relationship drama. Low angst can be fluffy, but here, it feels much more like reading about real life. Spencer and Noah both have other external concerns they also devote attention to, rather than the entire story being about their developing romance. That being said, I did thoroughly enjoy all the moments that were devoted to said romance!
Novak has a true gift for developing ensemble casts that represent the best aspects of supportive friendships, no matter the gender. I look forward to following along as they all find their person (or finally see the person right in front of them) and also embark on their happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
August 10, 2023
Beautifully written contemporary romance
Rating: 4.5🌈
In Heather Bay, Charlie Novak has the beginnings of a truly lovely, location centric contemporary romance series. The location itself, a historic community, complete with castle, on the cliffs of Heather Bay, is rich in scenic beauty and steeped in the aged community buildings and families.
The first story has a base of two old childhood friends and first loves whose romance was broken apart by the doubts and fears of their teenage years and stress of one headed off to college in York. The death of a beloved grandmother, the need to renovate the cottage inherited by the grandson that left for college and rarely returned, yields up a warmhearted, beautifully written romance. One that’s about second chances and the joy of finding comfort in coming home to the friends and lover you’ve always known yourself to have been missing.
The characters, the close circle of unique personalities that make up old childhood friendships and new members to this tight group, are so well defined. We feel like we know them at the end.
I enjoy a romance where the author takes an adult approach to a relationship. Here the men acknowledge early on that the anguish caused each other by their actions years ago was primarily due to their teenage fears , lack of communication that each was responsible for.
How refreshing. They talk as adults as their friends advise them to and move on. Love this.
Low angst? Yes. But does it make sense or make the storytelling less engaging? No. There’s plenty of elements here to keep the reader interested and invested in their lives and that of the community.
I especially thought that of Oliver’s work, and trying to see if he could get his company to agree to a different work environment was on point of discussions these days. And Lane’s issues with his contractors felt pretty realistic and grounded him firmly within his profession and his crew.
I could picture these men, this small community of people so clearly because Novak has made them such a great compelling center for emotional history and a wealth of relationships going forward.
I’m really excited to see where this series goes next. I’m highly recommending it !
Heather Bay series :
Like I Promised #1
Like I Wished #2
Like I Needed #3
Like I Pretended #4
Like I Wanted #5 - Sept 28,2023
Rating: 4.5🌈
In Heather Bay, Charlie Novak has the beginnings of a truly lovely, location centric contemporary romance series. The location itself, a historic community, complete with castle, on the cliffs of Heather Bay, is rich in scenic beauty and steeped in the aged community buildings and families.
The first story has a base of two old childhood friends and first loves whose romance was broken apart by the doubts and fears of their teenage years and stress of one headed off to college in York. The death of a beloved grandmother, the need to renovate the cottage inherited by the grandson that left for college and rarely returned, yields up a warmhearted, beautifully written romance. One that’s about second chances and the joy of finding comfort in coming home to the friends and lover you’ve always known yourself to have been missing.
The characters, the close circle of unique personalities that make up old childhood friendships and new members to this tight group, are so well defined. We feel like we know them at the end.
I enjoy a romance where the author takes an adult approach to a relationship. Here the men acknowledge early on that the anguish caused each other by their actions years ago was primarily due to their teenage fears , lack of communication that each was responsible for.
How refreshing. They talk as adults as their friends advise them to and move on. Love this.
Low angst? Yes. But does it make sense or make the storytelling less engaging? No. There’s plenty of elements here to keep the reader interested and invested in their lives and that of the community.
I especially thought that of Oliver’s work, and trying to see if he could get his company to agree to a different work environment was on point of discussions these days. And Lane’s issues with his contractors felt pretty realistic and grounded him firmly within his profession and his crew.
I could picture these men, this small community of people so clearly because Novak has made them such a great compelling center for emotional history and a wealth of relationships going forward.
I’m really excited to see where this series goes next. I’m highly recommending it !
Heather Bay series :
Like I Promised #1
Like I Wished #2
Like I Needed #3
Like I Pretended #4
Like I Wanted #5 - Sept 28,2023
October 14, 2022
🧁ARC Review🧁
“I’m in love with you,” he said softly. “That’s pretty fucking awesome.” “Pretty fucking awesome indeed.”
If you are ever in need of a book to cheer you up and put a smile on your face, then here you go! Like I Wished, by Charlie Novak, was such a delight. Her books just make me feel like I am wrapped up in a blanket, with a cup of hot cocoa, in front of a fire, and with my fav book. Best feeling ever!!!! ❤️🌈🙌🏻
Spencer and Noah were pure sugary sweetness! No drama—just love, cuddles, sex, and baked goods. Seriously, I dare you to try and get through this book without craving a cupcake and hot cocoa….I wish you the best of luck, haha. ❤️❤️
This book has some of the best tropes:
🌈best friend’s brother
🌈friends-to-lovers
🌈opposites attract
🌈bi-awakening
🌈some delicious praising (not sure if I would consider it praise kink)
This is book 2 in the Heather Bay series. I have not read book 1 and was able to follow the story just fine, but I will definitely be reading book 1 soon. These characters are great! 🫶🏻🫶🏻
Favorite quote: “I’d had a crush on Spencer for so long that this had always felt like an unrealistic dream, a silly fantasy that I was willing to waste my time on, but now that it was real, it was more than I’d ever imagined. More than I’d ever wished.”
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I’m in love with you,” he said softly. “That’s pretty fucking awesome.” “Pretty fucking awesome indeed.”
If you are ever in need of a book to cheer you up and put a smile on your face, then here you go! Like I Wished, by Charlie Novak, was such a delight. Her books just make me feel like I am wrapped up in a blanket, with a cup of hot cocoa, in front of a fire, and with my fav book. Best feeling ever!!!! ❤️🌈🙌🏻
Spencer and Noah were pure sugary sweetness! No drama—just love, cuddles, sex, and baked goods. Seriously, I dare you to try and get through this book without craving a cupcake and hot cocoa….I wish you the best of luck, haha. ❤️❤️
This book has some of the best tropes:
🌈best friend’s brother
🌈friends-to-lovers
🌈opposites attract
🌈bi-awakening
🌈some delicious praising (not sure if I would consider it praise kink)
This is book 2 in the Heather Bay series. I have not read book 1 and was able to follow the story just fine, but I will definitely be reading book 1 soon. These characters are great! 🫶🏻🫶🏻
Favorite quote: “I’d had a crush on Spencer for so long that this had always felt like an unrealistic dream, a silly fantasy that I was willing to waste my time on, but now that it was real, it was more than I’d ever imagined. More than I’d ever wished.”
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 22, 2023
Baker enthusiast, Spencer Matthews has been a bit lonely since moving back to his hometown. He has a circle of casual friends but no real close mates until he gets the chance to know his brother's best friend a bit better - and then he finds himself getting feelings.
Chemistry teacher, Noah Hawthorn has had a crush on his best friend's older brother since they were kids. But Spencer Matthews is straight. So he knows better than to fall for him. Even though the more he gets to know him, the deeper he finds himself falling.
This was a low angst, contemporary romance. There's lots of sugary sweet fluff and plenty of steaminess. Noah and Spencer are cute together and their relationship is easy going and full of happy moments, laughter and love.
Spencer was a great character and I loved his carefree happy nature. He was very much a golden retriever sunshine type. I loved the idea that he'd painted all the rooms in his house bright bold colours and his how was a whole rainbow. I honestly want pictures. Noah wasn't quite as sunshine bright but he was still a pretty positive guy with only a few physical hangups and the sorts of insecurities most people have.
The inclusion of the found family/friendship group was great. They were all supportive and caring of each other and I love the Heather Bay setting. I'm looking forward to Theo and Laurie's book.
Overall this was an easy read with lots of feel good moments, lots of steam and sunshine. It wasn't perfect but it was perfectly enjoyable. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
Chemistry teacher, Noah Hawthorn has had a crush on his best friend's older brother since they were kids. But Spencer Matthews is straight. So he knows better than to fall for him. Even though the more he gets to know him, the deeper he finds himself falling.
This was a low angst, contemporary romance. There's lots of sugary sweet fluff and plenty of steaminess. Noah and Spencer are cute together and their relationship is easy going and full of happy moments, laughter and love.
Spencer was a great character and I loved his carefree happy nature. He was very much a golden retriever sunshine type. I loved the idea that he'd painted all the rooms in his house bright bold colours and his how was a whole rainbow. I honestly want pictures. Noah wasn't quite as sunshine bright but he was still a pretty positive guy with only a few physical hangups and the sorts of insecurities most people have.
The inclusion of the found family/friendship group was great. They were all supportive and caring of each other and I love the Heather Bay setting. I'm looking forward to Theo and Laurie's book.
Overall this was an easy read with lots of feel good moments, lots of steam and sunshine. It wasn't perfect but it was perfectly enjoyable. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
November 1, 2022
This was a super cute, fun read with absolutely zero angst. Spencer and Noah were such a cute and sweet couple and seemed to be perfect for each other. Once Spencer realized he was bi I loved how calm and collected and rational he was about the whole thing. It all just seemed to click with him.
I loved the normal body portrayal of Noah. There are so many books with men with absolutely perfect bodies and no self confidence issues that it was refreshing to have an MC with some extra bits and have Spencer love his body so much. I also loved how much Spencer just wanted to please Noah with absolutely everything. They were a super sweet couple which they called each other quite often.
Spencer and his brother Alex own a book cafe called Novel Tea. I loved that!! It’s a best friends brother romance but there was zero push back from the brother.
I have not read the books in the series before this one but the author did a good job of introducing characters so I didn’t feel like I missed anything. However, I would love to go back and read about the others. Would definitely recommend this book if you’re look for a very easy no angst read.
I loved the normal body portrayal of Noah. There are so many books with men with absolutely perfect bodies and no self confidence issues that it was refreshing to have an MC with some extra bits and have Spencer love his body so much. I also loved how much Spencer just wanted to please Noah with absolutely everything. They were a super sweet couple which they called each other quite often.
Spencer and his brother Alex own a book cafe called Novel Tea. I loved that!! It’s a best friends brother romance but there was zero push back from the brother.
I have not read the books in the series before this one but the author did a good job of introducing characters so I didn’t feel like I missed anything. However, I would love to go back and read about the others. Would definitely recommend this book if you’re look for a very easy no angst read.
October 27, 2022
This is again a typical Charlie Novak book, cute romance with low angst/no drama and a great set of secondary characters.
I adore Charlie Novak's books. They are like a cosy hug, wrapped in blanket with a cup of tea on a rainy day-feeling books. And Noah and Spencer are just fitting right in.
The troope and set up of the story are nothing new but she just makes it work. Noah is crushing on Spencer for years and Spencer, while thinking looking admiring at guys is just normal, suddenly sees Noah in a different light when offering to teach him baking to survive a school bake off.
These two click without the story feeling artificial. There is a bit of tension as Spencer is the brother of Noah's best friend and roommate so while trying to keep dating quite while surrondered by well-meaning friends is difficult.
I like Spencer's background story, it shows he has a life outside the friendship group and while it could have done with a bit more depth, it feels authentic and I hope we see more of his gym friends in future.
This just shows how utterly British Charlie writes, a cup of tea is the solution for everything.
"I, er, I don't think I'm straight. And I'm a bit......confused. Laurie nodded. "Come on, I'll put the kettle on."
Negative point - I felt his easy acceptance of the physical side of his relationship with Noah a bit too easy. But it's really only minor.
Bonus point for the little interlinking to the other universes the author created and I liked the little Easter Egg which was dropped in.
I can't wait for the rest of the guys getting their HEA.
I adore Charlie Novak's books. They are like a cosy hug, wrapped in blanket with a cup of tea on a rainy day-feeling books. And Noah and Spencer are just fitting right in.
The troope and set up of the story are nothing new but she just makes it work. Noah is crushing on Spencer for years and Spencer, while thinking looking admiring at guys is just normal, suddenly sees Noah in a different light when offering to teach him baking to survive a school bake off.
These two click without the story feeling artificial. There is a bit of tension as Spencer is the brother of Noah's best friend and roommate so while trying to keep dating quite while surrondered by well-meaning friends is difficult.
I like Spencer's background story, it shows he has a life outside the friendship group and while it could have done with a bit more depth, it feels authentic and I hope we see more of his gym friends in future.
This just shows how utterly British Charlie writes, a cup of tea is the solution for everything.
"I, er, I don't think I'm straight. And I'm a bit......confused. Laurie nodded. "Come on, I'll put the kettle on."
Negative point - I felt his easy acceptance of the physical side of his relationship with Noah a bit too easy. But it's really only minor.
Bonus point for the little interlinking to the other universes the author created and I liked the little Easter Egg which was dropped in.
I can't wait for the rest of the guys getting their HEA.
November 3, 2022
Like I Wished is the sweetest, most wholesome best friend's brother romance. While somehow also being incredibly hot. Like burn up the sheets levels.
Noah is a super smart chemistry teacher who has been half in love with Spencer for years. And Spencer is a loveable former footballer who incredibly unaware of his own feelings and others people's interest in him.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts. Spencer's need to be everything Noah has ever wanted is like every person's dream come true. The communication and all around relationship they were building was really enjoyable to read.
I really liked the roles all the friends played in the story. Especially Will and Alex. The kind of meddling and joking they did with both of them. It was nice to see that sort of dynamic Alex played with his brother. I'll be interested in reading his book in the future but I'm so excited for Will's book next.
Noah is a super smart chemistry teacher who has been half in love with Spencer for years. And Spencer is a loveable former footballer who incredibly unaware of his own feelings and others people's interest in him.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts. Spencer's need to be everything Noah has ever wanted is like every person's dream come true. The communication and all around relationship they were building was really enjoyable to read.
I really liked the roles all the friends played in the story. Especially Will and Alex. The kind of meddling and joking they did with both of them. It was nice to see that sort of dynamic Alex played with his brother. I'll be interested in reading his book in the future but I'm so excited for Will's book next.
November 5, 2022
LIke I Wished, the 2nd book in the Heather Bay series by Charlie Novak was a perfect read for me. Just what I love in my romance stories. Noah has had a crush on Spencer for years, assuming he’s straight and would never return his feelings. Little does he know that Spencer is starting to open his eyes to how he feels about Noah and make some unexpected realizations about his own sexuality. THis was a sweet love story of two people figuring out their feelings and their future together. No angst involved, just pure happiness. That is why I adore stories by Charlie Novak. They just make me happy. I read romance for the escape from the reality of the world and she allows just that in the stories and characters that she brings to us in her books. Also, with mentions of Characters from other series ie. Henry….I can just smell the crossover coming and guess who’s going to end up buddies! I can’t wait!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews