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The Hollywood Jinx
When Hollywood comes to small-town Ohio, the scene is set for an unpredictable romance in a fun and flirty novel by Sariah Wilson, the bestselling author of The Chemistry of Love.
The small town of Patience needs a financial boost. Temporary librarian and aspiring film-score composer Jane Wagner’s plan? Invite movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s harvest festival and stand back for the tourist surge. No one thought he’d say yes—much less that he’d bring a documentary crew to stream his visit.
Given Nick’s affinity for trouble, his reputation and films are tanking. Patience is the perfect stopover on a journey of self-improvement and his chance to put good karma out in the universe. Spending time with a sweet and lovely guide like Jane is a bonus. But Jane’s heartbroken past keeps her on guard against men. Especially when they’re jinxed.
The truth is, Jane’s falling hard. But she can’t ignore the differences between them. He’s famous. She isn’t. He’s here for two weeks. This is her home. Where can it possibly lead? She’ll see. Because day after blissful day, Nick’s encouraging Jane to trust again and, best of all, to dream beyond Patience.
The small town of Patience needs a financial boost. Temporary librarian and aspiring film-score composer Jane Wagner’s plan? Invite movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s harvest festival and stand back for the tourist surge. No one thought he’d say yes—much less that he’d bring a documentary crew to stream his visit.
Given Nick’s affinity for trouble, his reputation and films are tanking. Patience is the perfect stopover on a journey of self-improvement and his chance to put good karma out in the universe. Spending time with a sweet and lovely guide like Jane is a bonus. But Jane’s heartbroken past keeps her on guard against men. Especially when they’re jinxed.
The truth is, Jane’s falling hard. But she can’t ignore the differences between them. He’s famous. She isn’t. He’s here for two weeks. This is her home. Where can it possibly lead? She’ll see. Because day after blissful day, Nick’s encouraging Jane to trust again and, best of all, to dream beyond Patience.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
September 6, 2023
I love small-town romances and thus, I loved the idea.
But, the fall festival does not get the best opportunities sadly. So much more could've happened with it! Plus, the lead's quite self-involved to me...
But, the fall festival does not get the best opportunities sadly. So much more could've happened with it! Plus, the lead's quite self-involved to me...
May 22, 2023
This was a sweet rom-com set in the small town of Patience, Ohio. Dreamy movie star meets girl next door type. It's a fun read and a short happily-ever-after type story.
Description:
When Hollywood comes to small-town Ohio, the scene is set for an unpredictable romance in a fun and flirty novel by Sariah Wilson, the bestselling author of The Chemistry of Love . The small town of Patience needs a financial boost. Temporary librarian and aspiring film-score composer Jane Wagner’s plan? Invite movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s harvest festival and stand back for the tourist surge. No one thought he’d say yes―much less that he’d bring a documentary crew to stream his visit. Given Nick’s affinity for trouble, his reputation and films are tanking. Patience is the perfect stopover on a journey of self-improvement and his chance to put good karma out in the universe. Spending time with a sweet and lovely guide like Jane is a bonus. But Jane’s heartbroken past keeps her on guard against men. Especially when they’re jinxed. The truth is, Jane’s falling hard. But she can’t ignore the differences between them. He’s famous. She isn’t. He’s here for two weeks. This is her home. Where can it possibly lead? She’ll see. Because day after blissful day, Nick’s encouraging Jane to trust again and, best of all, to dream beyond Patience.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed the banter between the characters. There were some humorous situations that made me laugh. It helped that I liked both Jane and Nick. The romance is sweet. The small town seemed like a caring community. This was a light, happy read. Yes, there were some moments and hurdles, but nothing too drastic. Might be a fun beach read.
Thanks to Montlake through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on July 25, 2023.
Description:
When Hollywood comes to small-town Ohio, the scene is set for an unpredictable romance in a fun and flirty novel by Sariah Wilson, the bestselling author of The Chemistry of Love . The small town of Patience needs a financial boost. Temporary librarian and aspiring film-score composer Jane Wagner’s plan? Invite movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s harvest festival and stand back for the tourist surge. No one thought he’d say yes―much less that he’d bring a documentary crew to stream his visit. Given Nick’s affinity for trouble, his reputation and films are tanking. Patience is the perfect stopover on a journey of self-improvement and his chance to put good karma out in the universe. Spending time with a sweet and lovely guide like Jane is a bonus. But Jane’s heartbroken past keeps her on guard against men. Especially when they’re jinxed. The truth is, Jane’s falling hard. But she can’t ignore the differences between them. He’s famous. She isn’t. He’s here for two weeks. This is her home. Where can it possibly lead? She’ll see. Because day after blissful day, Nick’s encouraging Jane to trust again and, best of all, to dream beyond Patience.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed the banter between the characters. There were some humorous situations that made me laugh. It helped that I liked both Jane and Nick. The romance is sweet. The small town seemed like a caring community. This was a light, happy read. Yes, there were some moments and hurdles, but nothing too drastic. Might be a fun beach read.
Thanks to Montlake through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on July 25, 2023.
May 19, 2023
(4.5 Stars)
There will always be something near and dear to my heart with a celebrity and "normal person" romance. Maybe because I place myself in the book and it fulfills my teenage dreams.
Jane's small town of Patience is in dire straits and desperately needs a miracle to keep things afloat--especially their festival. A viral plea lands actor, Nick Haddon smack in the middle of Patience and smack in the middle of Jane's life and home.
I couldn't get over the flirty banter and wit that encompasses almost every interaction between these two. Although completely opposite in so many ways, they complement each other so well. There were so many things to love--deep and lasting character changes, an inappropriate pregnant bestie, small town loyalties (and small town gossip), a library job, chemistry amidst a jinx, and obstacles to overcome, but it's the swoony chemistry that sealed the deal.
I will be inviting this sweet story into my life over and over again.
Content: mild-moderate romance (kissing, innuendo--especially concerning the past)
There will always be something near and dear to my heart with a celebrity and "normal person" romance. Maybe because I place myself in the book and it fulfills my teenage dreams.
Jane's small town of Patience is in dire straits and desperately needs a miracle to keep things afloat--especially their festival. A viral plea lands actor, Nick Haddon smack in the middle of Patience and smack in the middle of Jane's life and home.
I couldn't get over the flirty banter and wit that encompasses almost every interaction between these two. Although completely opposite in so many ways, they complement each other so well. There were so many things to love--deep and lasting character changes, an inappropriate pregnant bestie, small town loyalties (and small town gossip), a library job, chemistry amidst a jinx, and obstacles to overcome, but it's the swoony chemistry that sealed the deal.
I will be inviting this sweet story into my life over and over again.
Content: mild-moderate romance (kissing, innuendo--especially concerning the past)
July 30, 2023
When an embezzling scandal hits the small town of Patience, only the town librarian Jane's job is still standing (long story). Her sister-in-law hatches a plan: invite movie star Nick Haddon to come to the town's harvest festival and let the tourist money do the rest. No one thought he'd actually say yes, let alone Jane, who has to promise his publicist that she'll watch over Nick, who has a reputation for drinking and getting into trouble. With Nick staying with Jane at her parents' bed and breakfast, they have plenty of time to get to know one other. The two feel an instant connection, but Nick is wary due to feeling he ruins everything he touches, while Jane is scared of getting hurt again.
This is a cute very slow-burn romance. The slow slow burn felt a bit like reading a Hallmark Christmas movie. Nick is very firmly entrenched in thinking he's a jinx who destroys all he touches. Jane has a sad romantic past, making her scared of getting hurt again, yet she clings to the idea of a long term commitment and needing reassurance. These two take scared to a whole other level.
Nick appeared way too good to be true--wanting to help this tiny town, Jane, and a host of others (and being happy with such a chaste relationship). However, I'm a complete sucker for Hollywood people falling for regular folks, even if they seem perfect! There's always that bit of glamour and dreaminess that comes with such a relationship. Jane was a tad annoying at times, but this is a sweet and funny story. The small town setting is on point and the side characters humorous. It's a bit long and a little jerkily written at times, but cute. 3 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Montlake and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
This is a cute very slow-burn romance. The slow slow burn felt a bit like reading a Hallmark Christmas movie. Nick is very firmly entrenched in thinking he's a jinx who destroys all he touches. Jane has a sad romantic past, making her scared of getting hurt again, yet she clings to the idea of a long term commitment and needing reassurance. These two take scared to a whole other level.
Nick appeared way too good to be true--wanting to help this tiny town, Jane, and a host of others (and being happy with such a chaste relationship). However, I'm a complete sucker for Hollywood people falling for regular folks, even if they seem perfect! There's always that bit of glamour and dreaminess that comes with such a relationship. Jane was a tad annoying at times, but this is a sweet and funny story. The small town setting is on point and the side characters humorous. It's a bit long and a little jerkily written at times, but cute. 3 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Montlake and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
September 30, 2023
The small town of Patience, Ohio is out of money thanks to a crooked mayor who'd emptied the city's bank accounts. This puts the librarian in charge of the fall harvest festival and making money from the festival is the only chance they have to reopen the government offices. So on a lark, a video was made inviting television/movie star, Nick Haddon, the Most Handsome Man Alive to come to Patience for the festival. Who would've thought he'd agree and bring a film crew to document the entire thing?!! Certainly not temporary librarian Jane Wagner!
This is a fun rom-com with a slow-burn romance. We are talking S-L-O-W!! There's a lot of flirty banter and everything you expect from a Sariah Wilson romance. As I said this is a slow-burn romance but once Nick and Jane stop fighting their feelings the kisses are super swoony! This isn't my favorite book by this author but it's was a fun escape.
I received a complimentary copy from Montlake Publishing via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
This is a fun rom-com with a slow-burn romance. We are talking S-L-O-W!! There's a lot of flirty banter and everything you expect from a Sariah Wilson romance. As I said this is a slow-burn romance but once Nick and Jane stop fighting their feelings the kisses are super swoony! This isn't my favorite book by this author but it's was a fun escape.
I received a complimentary copy from Montlake Publishing via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
February 18, 2023
Watch out Patience, OH, you've got a celebrity heading your way! This small town is in need of help and that help arrives in the form of mega hollywood star Nick Haddon. He's responding to a little plea of outreach from Jane Wagner and her sister-in-law in the form of a short video they made asking him to come to their town festival. All in the hopes of drawing in a bigger crowd to bring in more revenue for their small town that has been rocked with scandal and lost all of their funds thanks to the crooked mayor.
What Jane Wagner wasn't expecting? Nick Haddon to say yes! Hahaha! This book was exactly what I needed when I picked it up. I had been reading several wonderful historical fiction novels that dealt with some heavier subjects and moments. And I just needed some fun, contemporary fluffy fun! This was just that! Which I know whenever I pick up a book by Sariah Wilson, I'll get a fun story, great characters and a happy ever after filled with lots of humor leading up to it! I wasn't disappointed!
Nick Haddon and Jane Wagner (yes I know, I keep using their full name...hee hee. Not gonna say why, just know I know I'm doing it!) are just too cute together. Even when they're fighting the pull of attraction and chemistry, or rather Jane is. But I think when she experienced all of that fish (not gonna explain that either, *giggles*) she opens her eyes and really just stops the fighting! Especially when Nick is just such a great guy and truly cares about the people in her beloved town of Patience. Even if he is kind to that one person, the girl who is Jane's arch nemesis! But don't worry Jane, he's only got eyes for you!
Seriously this was just a fun and quick read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was straightforward and not full of lots of conflict. Yes, there is still a conflict that happens and causes the little misunderstanding, but oh my heart how I loved the fixing of said little conflict! Love, love, loved it!!!! If you're looking for a read that will just make you smile and bring you a little sunshiny joy in your day, get ready for this latest offering from Sariah Wilson!
Content: Clean. Some kisses, flirting but nothing further. There is talk about Nick Haddon being a bit of a player prior to the start of the book but that he had changed. The characters do kiss and talk about spending the night together but don't.
I received a copy from the publisher, Montlake, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
What Jane Wagner wasn't expecting? Nick Haddon to say yes! Hahaha! This book was exactly what I needed when I picked it up. I had been reading several wonderful historical fiction novels that dealt with some heavier subjects and moments. And I just needed some fun, contemporary fluffy fun! This was just that! Which I know whenever I pick up a book by Sariah Wilson, I'll get a fun story, great characters and a happy ever after filled with lots of humor leading up to it! I wasn't disappointed!
Nick Haddon and Jane Wagner (yes I know, I keep using their full name...hee hee. Not gonna say why, just know I know I'm doing it!) are just too cute together. Even when they're fighting the pull of attraction and chemistry, or rather Jane is. But I think when she experienced all of that fish (not gonna explain that either, *giggles*) she opens her eyes and really just stops the fighting! Especially when Nick is just such a great guy and truly cares about the people in her beloved town of Patience. Even if he is kind to that one person, the girl who is Jane's arch nemesis! But don't worry Jane, he's only got eyes for you!
Seriously this was just a fun and quick read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was straightforward and not full of lots of conflict. Yes, there is still a conflict that happens and causes the little misunderstanding, but oh my heart how I loved the fixing of said little conflict! Love, love, loved it!!!! If you're looking for a read that will just make you smile and bring you a little sunshiny joy in your day, get ready for this latest offering from Sariah Wilson!
Content: Clean. Some kisses, flirting but nothing further. There is talk about Nick Haddon being a bit of a player prior to the start of the book but that he had changed. The characters do kiss and talk about spending the night together but don't.
I received a copy from the publisher, Montlake, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 11, 2023
2.5 stars - this one missed the mark for me, which I'm sorry to say since I normally love her books.
Pros:
- I liked Jane, Nick was awesome and so were most of the supporting characters including Jane's BFF.
- Small town vibes
- interesting premise
- Witty dialogue
- overall cute and easy story
Cons:
- Jane moved back to Patience to take care of her family after her dad had a serious health issue, yet this is barely reflected in the plot, Jane's thoughts/actions etc. Her parents are barely in the book at all.
- Jane is allegedly a composer, yet spends almost no time listening to or creating music, playing an instrument, etc. It felt like a very shallow attempt at a character trait
- Insta love (not my fave)
- the slowest of slow burns, based on Nick wanting to prove something to himself (this was charming at first but kinda became stale as it wore on and made things drag a bit for me)
- the premise kinda went off the rails with the whole town shut down over embezzlement, the fundraiser, etc.
- plot lines drifted away, never to be heard from again (what happened to Nick's agent asking Jane to babysit him? What happened to the documentary that had a crew on location to film Nick?
Pros:
- I liked Jane, Nick was awesome and so were most of the supporting characters including Jane's BFF.
- Small town vibes
- interesting premise
- Witty dialogue
- overall cute and easy story
Cons:
- Jane moved back to Patience to take care of her family after her dad had a serious health issue, yet this is barely reflected in the plot, Jane's thoughts/actions etc. Her parents are barely in the book at all.
- Jane is allegedly a composer, yet spends almost no time listening to or creating music, playing an instrument, etc. It felt like a very shallow attempt at a character trait
- Insta love (not my fave)
- the slowest of slow burns, based on Nick wanting to prove something to himself (this was charming at first but kinda became stale as it wore on and made things drag a bit for me)
- the premise kinda went off the rails with the whole town shut down over embezzlement, the fundraiser, etc.
- plot lines drifted away, never to be heard from again (what happened to Nick's agent asking Jane to babysit him? What happened to the documentary that had a crew on location to film Nick?
August 15, 2023
Okay so there's slow burn then there's this. Not even a kiss until past 90% AND they were living together! How is this even possible?! I was soooo bored!
Here's basically how it went:
Hot Hollywood actor comes to small town and stays at B&B with single female. They flirt a bit, he comes out of the shower topless and does topless yoga every day, she gushes. He falls in love with her like immediately but wants to take things slow. He helps with the big event the town has, he flirts with her and acts like he really likes her. He asks her if he can kiss her, she says yeah and still nothing happens! Throw another topless scene in, more confusion about why he hasn't kissed her yet, a town fire and then they end up together at like the very end! Ugh such a drag. I skimmed the last 20% I just couldn't take it anymore.
Here's basically how it went:
Hot Hollywood actor comes to small town and stays at B&B with single female. They flirt a bit, he comes out of the shower topless and does topless yoga every day, she gushes. He falls in love with her like immediately but wants to take things slow. He helps with the big event the town has, he flirts with her and acts like he really likes her. He asks her if he can kiss her, she says yeah and still nothing happens! Throw another topless scene in, more confusion about why he hasn't kissed her yet, a town fire and then they end up together at like the very end! Ugh such a drag. I skimmed the last 20% I just couldn't take it anymore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2024
Decent small-town romance with a will-they-or-won't they romance.
However, there were some plot holes and things that were quite brushed over. The synopsis mentioned that a documentary crew would be in town to stream his visit, but the story never actually showed this happening. Jane is also a supposed-composer, but she never really even listens to music or plays. It's also mentioned that Nick is a bit of a controversial figure but there's nothing really to back this up.
The whole book is really about Jane and Nick's relationship, Jane's catty relationship with another woman in the town, and fundraising. That's it.
However, there were some plot holes and things that were quite brushed over. The synopsis mentioned that a documentary crew would be in town to stream his visit, but the story never actually showed this happening. Jane is also a supposed-composer, but she never really even listens to music or plays. It's also mentioned that Nick is a bit of a controversial figure but there's nothing really to back this up.
The whole book is really about Jane and Nick's relationship, Jane's catty relationship with another woman in the town, and fundraising. That's it.
May 22, 2024
Story 3 stars. Narration 4 stars
This started out as a good rom-com story about a woman from a small town and the movie star she recruits to come help her town after someone steals all the town’s money. Early on I wondered how she was going to keep the couple out of the bedroom in the story. Each book she spends so much time at that pursuit and it’s tiring. This time she(the author) kept the couple from a first kiss. They are in
love but no kiss? Ridiculous, I thought. These are adults. I know she has a following that reads her because she does keep it clean. If it’s a plausible reason I don’t even mention it. This is the second time a book of hers made me just shake my head. I’ve read quite a few by her now and have mostly enjoyed them. This one just missed the mark for me. I know this doesn’t really review the book but it’s almost a review of the body of her work I’ve read instead of one book. Leaving it at that.
This started out as a good rom-com story about a woman from a small town and the movie star she recruits to come help her town after someone steals all the town’s money. Early on I wondered how she was going to keep the couple out of the bedroom in the story. Each book she spends so much time at that pursuit and it’s tiring. This time she(the author) kept the couple from a first kiss. They are in
love but no kiss? Ridiculous, I thought. These are adults. I know she has a following that reads her because she does keep it clean. If it’s a plausible reason I don’t even mention it. This is the second time a book of hers made me just shake my head. I’ve read quite a few by her now and have mostly enjoyed them. This one just missed the mark for me. I know this doesn’t really review the book but it’s almost a review of the body of her work I’ve read instead of one book. Leaving it at that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2023
I like this author a lot and while this book had some pretty darn funny lines in it - it fell a bit short for me. A Hollywood star comes to a very small town for two weeks to help rates funds for their city - and in those two weeks falls in love …..hmmm
July 12, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5)
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: brief mentions of parent who suffered a heart attack and parent who cheated on their spouse
Jane Wagner had dreams of composing music for films, but her dreams were put on hold when she moved home to Patience, OH to help her parents. Now she's running the town's upcoming festival, which is about to be a huge tourist attraction thanks to actor Nick Haddon coming to town. Jane has been tasked with providing a place for him to stay and ensuring that he won't get into trouble. But she's completely caught off guard when she realizes how handsome and kind he is in person. And it seems Nick is captivated by Jane as well. Soon sparks fly between Jane and Nick in what seems to be a small town romance for the ages. But can these two put aside their past disappointments and open their hearts to one another?
Did I just neglect all of my responsibilities and read this in one day? Yes, I absolutely did. My cheeks hurt from smiling, because this was so stinking cute and adorable. The second half in particular was just so swoony and romantic, and the build-up towards that first kiss was the best kind of torture. Boy, was it worth the wait 🔥🥵 Now, I know this is pretty much an insta-love situation, but I don't care. Nick won me over with his cocky but charming personality and all the little things he did and said from the moment he met Jane. I may have even imagined Chris Evans in my mind while thinking about Nick (sorry Courtney 😂😉). Jane definitely had a lot of moments where she resisted her feelings and Nick's intentions, but I can cut her some slack because of her messed up relationship history and the fact that anyone would question the believability of a celebrity falling for them. I loved how she built him up later in the book just as much as he did for her. I also enjoyed that this had a small town setting without becoming a caricature of one. Honestly, this book just made me so happy, and the epilogue was the cherry on top. If you want something fun, light, and just sweet as sugar, then go give this a read!
Thank you Netgalley and Montlake for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: brief mentions of parent who suffered a heart attack and parent who cheated on their spouse
Jane Wagner had dreams of composing music for films, but her dreams were put on hold when she moved home to Patience, OH to help her parents. Now she's running the town's upcoming festival, which is about to be a huge tourist attraction thanks to actor Nick Haddon coming to town. Jane has been tasked with providing a place for him to stay and ensuring that he won't get into trouble. But she's completely caught off guard when she realizes how handsome and kind he is in person. And it seems Nick is captivated by Jane as well. Soon sparks fly between Jane and Nick in what seems to be a small town romance for the ages. But can these two put aside their past disappointments and open their hearts to one another?
Did I just neglect all of my responsibilities and read this in one day? Yes, I absolutely did. My cheeks hurt from smiling, because this was so stinking cute and adorable. The second half in particular was just so swoony and romantic, and the build-up towards that first kiss was the best kind of torture. Boy, was it worth the wait 🔥🥵 Now, I know this is pretty much an insta-love situation, but I don't care. Nick won me over with his cocky but charming personality and all the little things he did and said from the moment he met Jane. I may have even imagined Chris Evans in my mind while thinking about Nick (sorry Courtney 😂😉). Jane definitely had a lot of moments where she resisted her feelings and Nick's intentions, but I can cut her some slack because of her messed up relationship history and the fact that anyone would question the believability of a celebrity falling for them. I loved how she built him up later in the book just as much as he did for her. I also enjoyed that this had a small town setting without becoming a caricature of one. Honestly, this book just made me so happy, and the epilogue was the cherry on top. If you want something fun, light, and just sweet as sugar, then go give this a read!
Thank you Netgalley and Montlake for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 31, 2023
The Hollywood Jinx is best described as your classic rom-com. Movie star visits small town Ohio (Ohio 🤮), meets girl who has been hurt by love, there is a need to save the small town, movie star needs redemption/a change of pace. You know how the story goes. That being said, I really enjoyed this one. It reminded me of Book Lovers with the pregnant friend/sister pushing the main character to chase their dreams and fall in love. Fun, enjoyable beach/airplane read.
I got The Hollywood Jinx as part of a Goodread’s Giveaway.
4/5 stars.
I got The Hollywood Jinx as part of a Goodread’s Giveaway.
4/5 stars.
July 23, 2023
******copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review*******
I don’t usually get this cross about a book - especially not when I've been lucky enough to get an advance copy - but this made me so cross. I finished it purely to see whether my suspicions were right (they were). I read a lot of romances - and I’ve read a lot of movie star & normal person romances this year (which is why I requested it from NetGalley because so many of them have been so much fun and so good) and this is my least favourite. I have reasons. They are coming up and they are spoiler-y so apologies for that. And I could be overthinking it, but I think that the subliminal messages books send are important.
I don’t usually get this cross about a book - especially not when I've been lucky enough to get an advance copy - but this made me so cross. I finished it purely to see whether my suspicions were right (they were). I read a lot of romances - and I’ve read a lot of movie star & normal person romances this year (which is why I requested it from NetGalley because so many of them have been so much fun and so good) and this is my least favourite. I have reasons. They are coming up and they are spoiler-y so apologies for that. And I could be overthinking it, but I think that the subliminal messages books send are important.
August 2, 2023
THE HOLLYWOOD JINX by Sariah Wilson presents a delightful small-town romance with a touch of Hollywood glamour. Jane, a temporary librarian and aspiring composer, comes up with a brilliant plan (with the help of her sister-in-law) to boost her struggling hometown of Patience, Ohio—invite movie star Nick Haddon to the Harvest Festival. To her surprise, he agrees. There is a definite attraction at first sight. Jane's heartbroken past makes her cautious, but Nick's charm and warmth slowly break down her defenses. Despite believing he's a jinx, Nick is a sweetheart who genuinely embraces the town and its people. The chemistry between Jane and Nick is heartwarming, and their blossoming romance is filled with sweet moments. I love Ms. Wilson's witty and fun books. Her writing is full of humour and tension. The novel's small-town setting and the clash of Hollywood with rural life make for a fun and flirty read. This book will leave you with a smile, captivated by the charming characters and the promise of love beyond expectations.
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July 19, 2023
The Hollywood Jinx is a small town romance.
I have loved this author's last few books so I was very excited to read this new release.
The story takes place in small town Ohio. The narrator is 22 year old Jane. She is her town's temporary librarian. But she ultimately would love to be a film score composer. I loved that she could compose music. However, I had no idea that she was only 22. It's only mentioned part way through the book. And honestly I was shocked. She seemed so much older and more mature that I think that her age should have been mentioned right away.
Gretchen is Jane's sister-in-law/childhood best friend. She invites movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s harvest festival to try to save the town. I loved Gretchen and how nosy she was. She was a wonderful supporting character.
The beginning started slowly for me. I don't love small town romances. And the premise didn't seem overly exciting. However I was very hopeful that this amazing author could make me like this book and care about these characters. And she did!
This is a super cute romance that I ended up really enjoying. The romance was so sweet and the story was so fun!
Thanks to netgalley and Montlake Romance.
June 6, 2023
Patience, Ohio is in big financial trouble. So big that the highest town official is temporary librarian and wanna-be film music composer, Jane Wagner. On a whim she invited handsome film star, Nick Haddon, to attend the annual Harvest Festival. She never expected him to accept, though, and when he arrives, she finds he’s so much more than she anticipated.
Sariah Wilson is great at creating romance between high profile celebrities and everyday people. Jane and Nick are fun and likeable, as are the supporting cast. I loved that Nick had a plan to rediscover romance slowly. I loved their banter, and the dollar bill trading, so cute. I really enjoyed this sweet romance. 3.5/5 Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for this complimentary ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Sariah Wilson is great at creating romance between high profile celebrities and everyday people. Jane and Nick are fun and likeable, as are the supporting cast. I loved that Nick had a plan to rediscover romance slowly. I loved their banter, and the dollar bill trading, so cute. I really enjoyed this sweet romance. 3.5/5 Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for this complimentary ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 8, 2023
i’m usually not a fan of insta-love, but this one was cute! this book had all of the things you’d expect from a small town romance — drama, meddling townsfolk, and more! jane and nick has really good chemistry especially in the second half! i really like how they connected over music. nick’s feelings for jane were so obvious even though this is single pov. i have to say that sariah wilson is an absolute expert at writing a steamy book that is still squeaky clean! the first kiss was off the charts and a well earned one — by the characters and the reader. 😂😂 this story really shined in the last 30% and the epilogue absolutely made me swoon!
thank you to montlake for an advanced copy. my thoughts are my own.
thank you to montlake for an advanced copy. my thoughts are my own.
July 19, 2023
When superstar Nick heads to the small town of Patience, Jane is given the task of supervising him while also utilising his presence to promote their town fair. Nick has not had anything go his way during his last few roles and he believes he may be jinxed so he tries to stay out of Jane's way, in case he manages to ruin things for her and the festival. Cue the romance but not being able to be together.
Sariah Wilson's books always leave me happy and with a smile on my face. There were many parts of the story I enjoyed, however I did find this one a little long and drawn out. If you enjoy a slow burn romance, then you'll love this one. I didn't have the patience and just wanted them to get together already!!! I love the celebrity romance trope and Nick seemed to be a sweetheart underneath his actor persona. I can't wait to see what the author writes next - I'll read anything she puts pen to!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Sariah Wilson's books always leave me happy and with a smile on my face. There were many parts of the story I enjoyed, however I did find this one a little long and drawn out. If you enjoy a slow burn romance, then you'll love this one. I didn't have the patience and just wanted them to get together already!!! I love the celebrity romance trope and Nick seemed to be a sweetheart underneath his actor persona. I can't wait to see what the author writes next - I'll read anything she puts pen to!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 27, 2023
The charm in this story is the setting and the side characters. It has a very Stars Hollow feel. I also particularly enjoyed the Sister in law/Best Friend.
August 16, 2023
Very sweet, a little thin compared to other books I’ve read by this author.
November 28, 2023
This was an odd one for me. I have loved some of Wilson's books and this one was just a miss for me. I felt like it jumped in too fast. Insta love. I didn't feel like I got to know Nick much at all until the end chapter of the book. The end was a bit of a mess for me as well. I love the flirty fun and feel of her books but this one lacked a lot for me.
Authors should never have deadlines. Maybe she just had to get this one out fast. Starstruck was awesome so if this didn't give you what you want but came close give that one a try.
Authors should never have deadlines. Maybe she just had to get this one out fast. Starstruck was awesome so if this didn't give you what you want but came close give that one a try.
February 13, 2023
2.5 stars rounded up
When Jane Wagner put together a video asking movie star Nick Haddon to come to their town festival she did not actually think he’d agree. Her hometown of Patience, Ohio is in dire financial straits and having a movie star attending the festival could definitely help bolster attendance. Nick has a reputation for overindulging and his publicist insists on him staying with Jane, so he could be ‘watched’. Jane reluctantly agrees, knowing it will help the town. When Nick arrives Jane, and the town, are left starstruck. And Nick seems especially interested in Jane.
I feel bad saying this, but I skimmed the last 30% of this book. It started out so cute! Small town romance, with a celebrity falling in love with a librarian! It had all the hallmarks of a classic and cute romcom. However, this book was one of the slowest slow burns I’ve ever read. It’s a clean romance, which I have no problems with, but the tension was drawn out just way too long for me. And to make it even more drawn out, it’s also an insta-love. Nick all but declares how much he likes Jane within the first day of them meeting. It just made the book drag more.
Jane is our narrator and it’s a first person POV. I find Jane to be the Queen of denial. She basically has cartoon hearts for eyes 70% of the book and she does everything in her power to downplay her feelings and deflect Nick. She’s had her heart broken by a rich guy in the past and has decided she will never let that happen again. I can understand why she would be hesitant, but I found her behaviour towards Nick to be grating. I also found that she spent way too long acting like the starstruck fangirl. She spends a good portion of the book staring at Nick and forgetting that he’s speaking or ogling him. For a character that’s supposed to be the one in charge of the town and festival I wish she had been written a bit more maturely.
Nick seems like a great guy from what we know. I wish the book had been a dual POV. I feel like it could have really benefited from having his perspective as the book played out. Nick is the Hollywood Jinx from the title and he’s in a predicament that’s similar to the Oscar curse - you hit such a high note that anything else you do looks like a failure since it doesn’t match the previous success. He is very committed to being a better person and making better choices. I just wish we got more development of his past and career.
I feel like this is another book where it had good bones and the premise was good but it just didn’t hit the mark for me. If you are a fan of insta love and slow burn books then this might be up your alley.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
When Jane Wagner put together a video asking movie star Nick Haddon to come to their town festival she did not actually think he’d agree. Her hometown of Patience, Ohio is in dire financial straits and having a movie star attending the festival could definitely help bolster attendance. Nick has a reputation for overindulging and his publicist insists on him staying with Jane, so he could be ‘watched’. Jane reluctantly agrees, knowing it will help the town. When Nick arrives Jane, and the town, are left starstruck. And Nick seems especially interested in Jane.
I feel bad saying this, but I skimmed the last 30% of this book. It started out so cute! Small town romance, with a celebrity falling in love with a librarian! It had all the hallmarks of a classic and cute romcom. However, this book was one of the slowest slow burns I’ve ever read. It’s a clean romance, which I have no problems with, but the tension was drawn out just way too long for me. And to make it even more drawn out, it’s also an insta-love. Nick all but declares how much he likes Jane within the first day of them meeting. It just made the book drag more.
Jane is our narrator and it’s a first person POV. I find Jane to be the Queen of denial. She basically has cartoon hearts for eyes 70% of the book and she does everything in her power to downplay her feelings and deflect Nick. She’s had her heart broken by a rich guy in the past and has decided she will never let that happen again. I can understand why she would be hesitant, but I found her behaviour towards Nick to be grating. I also found that she spent way too long acting like the starstruck fangirl. She spends a good portion of the book staring at Nick and forgetting that he’s speaking or ogling him. For a character that’s supposed to be the one in charge of the town and festival I wish she had been written a bit more maturely.
Nick seems like a great guy from what we know. I wish the book had been a dual POV. I feel like it could have really benefited from having his perspective as the book played out. Nick is the Hollywood Jinx from the title and he’s in a predicament that’s similar to the Oscar curse - you hit such a high note that anything else you do looks like a failure since it doesn’t match the previous success. He is very committed to being a better person and making better choices. I just wish we got more development of his past and career.
I feel like this is another book where it had good bones and the premise was good but it just didn’t hit the mark for me. If you are a fan of insta love and slow burn books then this might be up your alley.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 16, 2023
i do love a good celebrity romance so that’s what initially reeled me in, as well as the small town setting that I think always sets us up for a cosier plot
we jumped into it very quick which i appreciate but that meant there was quite a lot of sudden exposition which isnt something i enjoy, especially in a contemporary novel
i really appreciate that nick didnt turn up and immediately act like an arsehole, which honestly is what i expected. it’s nice to see a celebrity character treating other people like human beings
i feel that this was a little too insta lovey and with that there wasnt really any proper conflict it was a bit too easy for me plotwise, and was a tad too cheesy for my tastes
overall the plot felt quite simple and the minor conflict played out very quickly and felt a little shallow. the writing also felt very basic and surface level.
thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for the arc copy.
we jumped into it very quick which i appreciate but that meant there was quite a lot of sudden exposition which isnt something i enjoy, especially in a contemporary novel
i really appreciate that nick didnt turn up and immediately act like an arsehole, which honestly is what i expected. it’s nice to see a celebrity character treating other people like human beings
i feel that this was a little too insta lovey and with that there wasnt really any proper conflict it was a bit too easy for me plotwise, and was a tad too cheesy for my tastes
overall the plot felt quite simple and the minor conflict played out very quickly and felt a little shallow. the writing also felt very basic and surface level.
thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for the arc copy.
August 1, 2023
3.5⭐️
The epilogue was so good! Most of the book was just cute. It wasn’t my favorite of hers but it wasn’t bad. It was very vanilla. Easy to put down but pleasant to pick up.
The epilogue was so good! Most of the book was just cute. It wasn’t my favorite of hers but it wasn’t bad. It was very vanilla. Easy to put down but pleasant to pick up.
August 10, 2023
3 stars.
"The Hollywood Jinx" by Sariah Wilson is a kind of cute, suuuuper slow-burning romance... but it's also, like, wildly corny?? It's seriously one of the corniest books I have read in recent memory. I love a slowly-paced build-up to a wildly romantic pairing, but I just didn't feel connected to the characters at all here. This book is far too long for a story as simple as this, and the longer it went on, the more annoyed I got. The main character, Jane, really got on my nerves for most of the story. The plot revolves around Jane obsessing about how much she likes the fallen-out-of-grace movie star, Nick, who is staying in her small Ohio hometown while he rehabilitates his image. She is obsessed with him and wants to date and do more with him, but she also doesn't want to get involved with him for......... reasons?? The reasons they don't get together right away are so silly and juvenile. They both want to hook up, they are both adults, so just DO IT already and release me from my misery! I got more and more bored with every page turned. The insta-love in this story doesn't work for me as it was difficult for me to suspend my disbelief that Nick fell in love with Jane simply after seeing a video of her! There is some good banter between Nick and Jane, as well as some funny quips from several secondary characters, but not enough to raise my opinion about this book as a whole.
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Sariah Wilson for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"The Hollywood Jinx" by Sariah Wilson is a kind of cute, suuuuper slow-burning romance... but it's also, like, wildly corny?? It's seriously one of the corniest books I have read in recent memory. I love a slowly-paced build-up to a wildly romantic pairing, but I just didn't feel connected to the characters at all here. This book is far too long for a story as simple as this, and the longer it went on, the more annoyed I got. The main character, Jane, really got on my nerves for most of the story. The plot revolves around Jane obsessing about how much she likes the fallen-out-of-grace movie star, Nick, who is staying in her small Ohio hometown while he rehabilitates his image. She is obsessed with him and wants to date and do more with him, but she also doesn't want to get involved with him for......... reasons?? The reasons they don't get together right away are so silly and juvenile. They both want to hook up, they are both adults, so just DO IT already and release me from my misery! I got more and more bored with every page turned. The insta-love in this story doesn't work for me as it was difficult for me to suspend my disbelief that Nick fell in love with Jane simply after seeing a video of her! There is some good banter between Nick and Jane, as well as some funny quips from several secondary characters, but not enough to raise my opinion about this book as a whole.
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Sariah Wilson for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
July 12, 2023
When Hollywood comes to small-town Ohio, the scene is set for an unpredictable romance in a fun and flirty novel by Sariah Wilson, the bestselling author of The Chemistry of Love . The small town of Patience needs a financial boost. Temporary librarian and aspiring film-score composer Jane Wagner’s plan? Invite movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s harvest festival and stand back for the tourist surge. No one thought he’d say yes―much less that he’d bring a documentary crew to stream his visit. Given Nick’s affinity for trouble, his reputation and films are tanking. Patience is the perfect stopover on a journey of self-improvement and his chance to put good karma out in the universe. Spending time with a sweet and lovely guide like Jane is a bonus. But Jane’s heartbroken past keeps her on guard against men. Especially when they’re jinxed. The truth is, Jane’s falling hard. But she can’t ignore the differences between them. He’s famous. She isn’t. He’s here for two weeks. This is her home. Where can it possibly lead? She’ll see. Because day after blissful day, Nick’s encouraging Jane to trust again and, best of all, to dream beyond Patience.
I am a sucker for these types of stories. This one did not disappoint at all. Loved it. Will recommend to others.
I am a sucker for these types of stories. This one did not disappoint at all. Loved it. Will recommend to others.
February 10, 2023
This book, whilst being a cute and sweet small-town romance, was ultimately underwhelming.
The story is about how the main character, Jane, calls on a big Hollywood actor, Nick, to come save her small town by attending their festival. However, with the help of a very pregnant sister in-law, circumstances and maybe fate led to Nick and Jane falling for each other.
pros:
- sweet moments
- banter between the couples
-homely feel of a small-town community
cons:
- the writing style mostly leant towards telling the reader what was happening rather than showing them i.e., "This happened, so I feel this."
- limited character development
- not letting us in on information about the characters- "he told me about his past, etc." for such a short book would have felt like we knew the characters better if these details were shared.
Overall, it was a nice quick read, I just felt like it needed a little something more? Dual POV is a little bit of a weakness of mine, but I do believe it would have been nice if the book dual P.O.V. I would have liked to know more about Nicks perspective of the town, and it would have improved the story a little.
Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGallery for the free copy provided in exchange for an honest review!
The story is about how the main character, Jane, calls on a big Hollywood actor, Nick, to come save her small town by attending their festival. However, with the help of a very pregnant sister in-law, circumstances and maybe fate led to Nick and Jane falling for each other.
pros:
- sweet moments
- banter between the couples
-homely feel of a small-town community
cons:
- the writing style mostly leant towards telling the reader what was happening rather than showing them i.e., "This happened, so I feel this."
- limited character development
- not letting us in on information about the characters- "he told me about his past, etc." for such a short book would have felt like we knew the characters better if these details were shared.
Overall, it was a nice quick read, I just felt like it needed a little something more? Dual POV is a little bit of a weakness of mine, but I do believe it would have been nice if the book dual P.O.V. I would have liked to know more about Nicks perspective of the town, and it would have improved the story a little.
Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGallery for the free copy provided in exchange for an honest review!
August 27, 2023
Romantic, hopeful, and sweet!
The Hollywood Jinx is a heartwarming, sassy tale that takes you to the idyllic town of Patience, Ohio and into the life of the hardworking, kind Jane Wagner as she juggles the renovations of her family-owned B&B, the responsibilities of being the temporary librarian and town mayor, the organization of the town’s much-needed revenue making annual festival, and a growing attraction for a movie star who’s only in town for two weeks.
The prose is smooth and light. The characters, including all the supporting characters, are fun-loving, supportive, and endearing. And the plot is a heartfelt, flirty blend of tricky situations, tender moments, humorous hijinks, self-discovery, new beginnings, friendship, family, happiness, romance, community, and love.
Overall, The Hollywood Jinx is a charming, witty, adorable read by Wilson with characters I couldn’t help but root for and a swoon-worthy ending that left me smitten, satisfied, and already looking forward to reading whatever she comes up with next.
Thank you to Firefly Distributed Lines for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Hollywood Jinx is a heartwarming, sassy tale that takes you to the idyllic town of Patience, Ohio and into the life of the hardworking, kind Jane Wagner as she juggles the renovations of her family-owned B&B, the responsibilities of being the temporary librarian and town mayor, the organization of the town’s much-needed revenue making annual festival, and a growing attraction for a movie star who’s only in town for two weeks.
The prose is smooth and light. The characters, including all the supporting characters, are fun-loving, supportive, and endearing. And the plot is a heartfelt, flirty blend of tricky situations, tender moments, humorous hijinks, self-discovery, new beginnings, friendship, family, happiness, romance, community, and love.
Overall, The Hollywood Jinx is a charming, witty, adorable read by Wilson with characters I couldn’t help but root for and a swoon-worthy ending that left me smitten, satisfied, and already looking forward to reading whatever she comes up with next.
Thank you to Firefly Distributed Lines for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2023
Jane comes from the small town of Patience Ohio. Currently, the small town is struggling financially. Jane has stepped in to be the temporary Librarian of the town. Jane comes up with an idea of inviting movie star Nick Haddon to the town’s Harvest Festival to hopefully bring some revenue to the town.
Shockingly, Nick said yes! He plans on having a film crew with him to film a documentary. Jane lets him stay at her house during this time. However, Nick claims that he is a jinx with everything he does from his family to his acting career. When he starts to fall in love with Jane you can see that he is trying very hard to make sure nothing could go wrong.
Nick is an absolute sweetheart. You could see that he genuinely enjoys the town and its people. The feeling of belonging seems to have been missing from his life and it was so nice to see that he got along so well with everyone.
This is such a fun small-town rom-com story! It will leave you with a smile on your face at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Shockingly, Nick said yes! He plans on having a film crew with him to film a documentary. Jane lets him stay at her house during this time. However, Nick claims that he is a jinx with everything he does from his family to his acting career. When he starts to fall in love with Jane you can see that he is trying very hard to make sure nothing could go wrong.
Nick is an absolute sweetheart. You could see that he genuinely enjoys the town and its people. The feeling of belonging seems to have been missing from his life and it was so nice to see that he got along so well with everyone.
This is such a fun small-town rom-com story! It will leave you with a smile on your face at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
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