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Fa La La
‘Tis the season to be jolly . . . even to your enemy!
Robin and her band of merry women started stealing from The Nottingham hotel last holiday season when her niece’s medical bills became too much to bear. As this year’s holiday season approaches, Robin hopes to erase those bills for good, but there’s just one problem. Her scrooge of a boss is on to her little scheme, and he’s hired accounting firm Sterling Marian, LLP to find out what’s going on.
Uncovering the reason for The Nottingham’s recent financial woes will get Jake Marian’s boss of a mother off his back and secure his place as a partner of Sterling Marian, LLP. But when Jake is forced to share an office with the hotel’s events and excursions coordinator Robin, his task becomes more than he bargained for.
Unexpected sparks fly, and Robin and Jake learn there’s more to each other than meets the eye in this gender-swapped Robin Hood retelling with a modern-day, romcom twist, that’s sure to have you saying, “Fa La La” to love!
Robin and her band of merry women started stealing from The Nottingham hotel last holiday season when her niece’s medical bills became too much to bear. As this year’s holiday season approaches, Robin hopes to erase those bills for good, but there’s just one problem. Her scrooge of a boss is on to her little scheme, and he’s hired accounting firm Sterling Marian, LLP to find out what’s going on.
Uncovering the reason for The Nottingham’s recent financial woes will get Jake Marian’s boss of a mother off his back and secure his place as a partner of Sterling Marian, LLP. But when Jake is forced to share an office with the hotel’s events and excursions coordinator Robin, his task becomes more than he bargained for.
Unexpected sparks fly, and Robin and Jake learn there’s more to each other than meets the eye in this gender-swapped Robin Hood retelling with a modern-day, romcom twist, that’s sure to have you saying, “Fa La La” to love!
166 pages, Paperback
Published November 7, 2022
12 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Cornish
44 books105 followersMichelle Cornish is an author-illustrator, crafting the kinds of stories she loves to read--complex characters, a dash of romance, and plenty of mystery and intrigue. Her specialty? Strong women in sticky situations! To learn about deals and new releases, follow Michelle on BookBub by clicking here. Find a selection of Michelle's books free at this link.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
November 10, 2022
2.5 Stars
Pros: It was a quick read, with some Christmas-relevant moments (decorations, snow, a holiday party, etc.)
Cons: What (I suppose) is supposed to be a somewhat quirky/fun read - with a side of an unrealistic romance - really never hits the mark.
Based on a Christmas-y modern day version of Robin Hood - you know, they steal from the rich and give to the poor, or in this case, plan to give someone in need of money for health reasons - this story fell short of fun and quirky for me. It was more ho-hum than Ho-Ho-Ho, Merry Christmas.
A young woman, Robin, who works at The Nottingham Hotel, has a brother who lost his wife in an accident, and a daughter who is now in a wheelchair after the accident. She convinces two of her friends working there to help her by pocketing a bit of cash here and there until she can raise enough money for her niece’s surgery. Not in tips, mind you, just pocketing more than just the tips. Noticeably more than the tips. The discrepancies are apparent and there is an audit. Shockingly, she never seemed to consider that would be something that would take place. Shocked though she is, she manages to fall for the guy doing the audit, which seems to me to be a conflict of interest - especially since she knows exactly how much trouble she’d be in, and realizes that someone who is an auditor would probably notice the discrepancies. Just as amazing is the attraction is mutual, even though he obviously suspects that she is involved in the missing funds.
This was a relatively quick read, thankfully, which I read in one sitting. The ending is probably one of the most, if not the most, unrealistic ending I’ve ever read.
Pub Date: 25 Nov 2022
Many thanks for the ARC provided by SolVin Creative
Pros: It was a quick read, with some Christmas-relevant moments (decorations, snow, a holiday party, etc.)
Cons: What (I suppose) is supposed to be a somewhat quirky/fun read - with a side of an unrealistic romance - really never hits the mark.
Based on a Christmas-y modern day version of Robin Hood - you know, they steal from the rich and give to the poor, or in this case, plan to give someone in need of money for health reasons - this story fell short of fun and quirky for me. It was more ho-hum than Ho-Ho-Ho, Merry Christmas.
A young woman, Robin, who works at The Nottingham Hotel, has a brother who lost his wife in an accident, and a daughter who is now in a wheelchair after the accident. She convinces two of her friends working there to help her by pocketing a bit of cash here and there until she can raise enough money for her niece’s surgery. Not in tips, mind you, just pocketing more than just the tips. Noticeably more than the tips. The discrepancies are apparent and there is an audit. Shockingly, she never seemed to consider that would be something that would take place. Shocked though she is, she manages to fall for the guy doing the audit, which seems to me to be a conflict of interest - especially since she knows exactly how much trouble she’d be in, and realizes that someone who is an auditor would probably notice the discrepancies. Just as amazing is the attraction is mutual, even though he obviously suspects that she is involved in the missing funds.
This was a relatively quick read, thankfully, which I read in one sitting. The ending is probably one of the most, if not the most, unrealistic ending I’ve ever read.
Pub Date: 25 Nov 2022
Many thanks for the ARC provided by SolVin Creative
November 9, 2022
This is one of the worst Christmas novels I have come across. How the author thought that embezzlement was a good plot device for a romantic holiday offering is puzzling. Yes, the whole premise is based on a modern-day version of Robin Hood, but it did not work for me.
Robin Kingsley enlisted the help of her three friends/coworkers to steal funds from their employer, The Nottingham Hotel. The justification for their actions was to assist her brother in paying off enormous medical bills following an accident that cost him his wife and left his daughter in a wheelchair. While this was a noble intent, the short-term benefit did not seem wise when considering the potentially severe consequences. Despite an independent audit that was about to uncover her deception, Robin was still trying to siphon off funds at work. Her only redeeming quality was that she felt guilty for jeopardizing her friends’ and family’s future.
In addition to the questionable plot device, there are other problems that made this a less-than-enjoyable read. The character development is superficial. I did not care for Robin, the protagonist, and the supporting characters were never fleshed out – they seemed more “props” than people. The use of names (Nottingham, Sherwood, Robin, Marian, Sheriff) created a link to the original Robin Hood story, but as a literary device, it felt contrived. The pacing was slow with much repetition over the angst of being caught and the dilemma of a romantic attraction between two people with conflicting goals. Lastly, while I acknowledge that this is fiction, the ending was unrealistic and felt rushed.
Overall, I struggled to finish this disappointing book, skimming the last half. I cannot recommend it.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Robin Kingsley enlisted the help of her three friends/coworkers to steal funds from their employer, The Nottingham Hotel. The justification for their actions was to assist her brother in paying off enormous medical bills following an accident that cost him his wife and left his daughter in a wheelchair. While this was a noble intent, the short-term benefit did not seem wise when considering the potentially severe consequences. Despite an independent audit that was about to uncover her deception, Robin was still trying to siphon off funds at work. Her only redeeming quality was that she felt guilty for jeopardizing her friends’ and family’s future.
In addition to the questionable plot device, there are other problems that made this a less-than-enjoyable read. The character development is superficial. I did not care for Robin, the protagonist, and the supporting characters were never fleshed out – they seemed more “props” than people. The use of names (Nottingham, Sherwood, Robin, Marian, Sheriff) created a link to the original Robin Hood story, but as a literary device, it felt contrived. The pacing was slow with much repetition over the angst of being caught and the dilemma of a romantic attraction between two people with conflicting goals. Lastly, while I acknowledge that this is fiction, the ending was unrealistic and felt rushed.
Overall, I struggled to finish this disappointing book, skimming the last half. I cannot recommend it.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 18, 2022
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ARC provided by Xpresso Book Tours.
Robin and her band of merry women started stealing from The Nottingham hotel last holiday season when her niece’s medical bills became too much to bear. As this year’s holiday season approaches, Robin hopes to erase those bills for good, but there is just one problem. Her scrooge of a boss is on to her little scheme, and he has hired accounting firm Sterling Marian, LLP to find out what is going on.
Uncovering the reason for The Nottingham’s recent financial woes will get Jake Marian’s boss of a mother off his back and secure his place as a partner of Sterling Marian, LLP. But when Jake is forced to share an office with the hotel’s events and excursions coordinator Robin, his task becomes more than he bargained for.
This was such a fun, quick, easy to read Christmas themed romance book. I did wish there was more of a relationship that was built between Jake and Robin. They do not spend a lot of time with each other, so the romance chemistry was not exactly there. I also felt like a lot of the actions that Robin did were swept under the rug. No consequences whatsoever and those kinds of ends are a little harder for me to get past. However, if you need a cozy and easy romance, this is it. You just have to get past the fact that she is basically stealing from the company. Hard fact to get past in today's times.
Robin and her band of merry women started stealing from The Nottingham hotel last holiday season when her niece’s medical bills became too much to bear. As this year’s holiday season approaches, Robin hopes to erase those bills for good, but there is just one problem. Her scrooge of a boss is on to her little scheme, and he has hired accounting firm Sterling Marian, LLP to find out what is going on.
Uncovering the reason for The Nottingham’s recent financial woes will get Jake Marian’s boss of a mother off his back and secure his place as a partner of Sterling Marian, LLP. But when Jake is forced to share an office with the hotel’s events and excursions coordinator Robin, his task becomes more than he bargained for.
This was such a fun, quick, easy to read Christmas themed romance book. I did wish there was more of a relationship that was built between Jake and Robin. They do not spend a lot of time with each other, so the romance chemistry was not exactly there. I also felt like a lot of the actions that Robin did were swept under the rug. No consequences whatsoever and those kinds of ends are a little harder for me to get past. However, if you need a cozy and easy romance, this is it. You just have to get past the fact that she is basically stealing from the company. Hard fact to get past in today's times.
November 23, 2022
This story made no sense. Why is the reader supposed to be ok with the lead characters stealing money from their employer? Why is an accountant ok with that? Why would he still want to date the thief? I also found the Nottingham, Sherwood, and other Robin Hood connections weird given that this book takes place in the USA.
Nothing here worked for me.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review.
Nothing here worked for me.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review.
November 20, 2022
Rating: 3⭐️/5
Robin and her friends/colleagues started stealing from ‘The Nottingham’ last holiday season to pay for her niece’s medical bills and as this holiday season approaches she hopes to clear up their debts but then there’s a problem. Her boss gets a hint of the happenings and brings in an accounting firm (Sterling Marian) to help find out what’s going on.
Jake gets called in to uncover the reason for the recent declination in the finances of The Nottingham. Hoping to become partner at Sterling Marian, Jake takes it upon himself to find out what is going on. But sharing an office with Robin makes it harder for him.
Fa La La was a quick read and although, it’s a Christmas themed romance book, I didn’t really get that feel when I was reading. Some things also felt so unrealistic but it was endurable.
I received this book through NetGalley, from Xpresso Book Tours, in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for the ARC!
Robin and her friends/colleagues started stealing from ‘The Nottingham’ last holiday season to pay for her niece’s medical bills and as this holiday season approaches she hopes to clear up their debts but then there’s a problem. Her boss gets a hint of the happenings and brings in an accounting firm (Sterling Marian) to help find out what’s going on.
Jake gets called in to uncover the reason for the recent declination in the finances of The Nottingham. Hoping to become partner at Sterling Marian, Jake takes it upon himself to find out what is going on. But sharing an office with Robin makes it harder for him.
Fa La La was a quick read and although, it’s a Christmas themed romance book, I didn’t really get that feel when I was reading. Some things also felt so unrealistic but it was endurable.
I received this book through NetGalley, from Xpresso Book Tours, in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for the ARC!
December 2, 2022
This book follows Robin as she and three of her coworkers steal from their hotel workplace to pay off medical debt belonging to her brother. Jake is an accountant hired to figure out why the hotel is losing money and to find out who is stealing. Sparks happen. You have a holiday romance novel.
I actually enjoyed this book. It wasn’t too long and didn’t feel the need to use pointless filler content to make the book longer. I liked the characters but wanted to learn more about the side characters. The book also isn’t what people now call steamy, which is a big plus in my book. I don’t like sexual books and prefer the romance. I’d read more by this author.
My biggest problem was trying to figure out why her friends would steal for her.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC of this book for my honest feedback.
I actually enjoyed this book. It wasn’t too long and didn’t feel the need to use pointless filler content to make the book longer. I liked the characters but wanted to learn more about the side characters. The book also isn’t what people now call steamy, which is a big plus in my book. I don’t like sexual books and prefer the romance. I’d read more by this author.
My biggest problem was trying to figure out why her friends would steal for her.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC of this book for my honest feedback.
December 25, 2022
Unfortunately, this book was another case of an amazing premise that didn’t live up to its own expectations.
The idea of telling the story from two main characters—one of whom has been stealing from her employer in order to help her brother pay medical bills from a car accident that killed his wife and injured his daughter, and the other being the accountant brought in to find out who’s stealing and a romance develops—really pulled me in. However, things fell apart pretty quickly.
First of all, there was no chemistry between the two leads, and because it was such a short story, the insta-love was strong. There was cringey dialogue between not just the two leads but also their friends and coworkers—none of it felt as natural as it should’ve been between people who knew each other for so long.
The story was also all telling and no showing. There were no descriptions about anything, and the characters’ every movements were told to you instead of being shown.
This story could’ve been so interesting but ultimately fell flat. I would not recommend reading this book; there are plenty of better holiday stories to read instead, like In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The idea of telling the story from two main characters—one of whom has been stealing from her employer in order to help her brother pay medical bills from a car accident that killed his wife and injured his daughter, and the other being the accountant brought in to find out who’s stealing and a romance develops—really pulled me in. However, things fell apart pretty quickly.
First of all, there was no chemistry between the two leads, and because it was such a short story, the insta-love was strong. There was cringey dialogue between not just the two leads but also their friends and coworkers—none of it felt as natural as it should’ve been between people who knew each other for so long.
The story was also all telling and no showing. There were no descriptions about anything, and the characters’ every movements were told to you instead of being shown.
This story could’ve been so interesting but ultimately fell flat. I would not recommend reading this book; there are plenty of better holiday stories to read instead, like In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 27, 2022
Robin is slaving over the holiday events at The Nottingham, while also making some morally questionable decisions. Jake is auditing to find why the hotel is bleeding money, while also trying to understand why his life is feeling less than. Little do they know they’ll be sharing a space together, will this lead to a love story as old as time? Or will the hidden secrets drive a knife in their newfound friendship?
Fa La La is a quick, easy read that would be good following a heavy read. The author has built likable and relatable characters in both Robin, Jake and their friends. They are what made me stay. While there are some heavy topics, Cornish does a good job of providing just enough details to provide awareness without bringing the holiday cheer down. Where this helped in the difficult topics, it seemed to have held back the rest of the book.
I wanted, no I needed, more detail when it came to describing events throughout the book. Without that level of detail, it felt like I was being told a second hand story, rather than being fully immersed into the storyline. Additional details would have created a better connection to the characters and helped the dialogue, and book as a whole, flow.
Thank you to NetGalley and SolVin Creative for an advanced digital copy in return for an honest review.
Fa La La is a quick, easy read that would be good following a heavy read. The author has built likable and relatable characters in both Robin, Jake and their friends. They are what made me stay. While there are some heavy topics, Cornish does a good job of providing just enough details to provide awareness without bringing the holiday cheer down. Where this helped in the difficult topics, it seemed to have held back the rest of the book.
I wanted, no I needed, more detail when it came to describing events throughout the book. Without that level of detail, it felt like I was being told a second hand story, rather than being fully immersed into the storyline. Additional details would have created a better connection to the characters and helped the dialogue, and book as a whole, flow.
Thank you to NetGalley and SolVin Creative for an advanced digital copy in return for an honest review.
November 10, 2022
As a CPA/auditor that specializes in anti-fraud and a Christmas nut, I thought I had found my perfect book when I read this blurb on NetGalley. Despite the promising idea, I really struggled my way through this one. For me, the characters were very much lacking and the writing style was not my favorite. I also thought the dialogue around the audit and fraud investigation was cringeworthy. I also really just can’t get over how unbelievable the ending/resolution is. I assure you all, this would never happen in real life!
March 31, 2024
"Fa La La" by Michelle Cornish is a charming contemporary romance set against the backdrop of the holiday season, with a whimsical nod to the legend of Robin Hood. Robin, our modern-day heroine, navigates the halls of the Nottingham hotel with a heart full of Christmas spirit and a plan to help her niece's medical bills. Joined by her coworkers, Robin embarks on a merry adventure that blends mischief, generosity, and a hint of romance. While the plot may stretch believability at times, the story's warmth and cheer make it a delightful read for fans of holiday romances. "Fa La La" is a festive treat that will leave you smiling and feeling the magic of the season.
Four out of five stars.
Four out of five stars.
November 21, 2022
Well…this one was different. At first I didn’t like it at all; then it got better; then not so much…AGAIN. But it did have some pretty cool moments. The storyline ended up being pretty cool; the characters were really sort of cute; plot twists and turns were kind of hard to track; but the HEA…really awesome. I think you need to put this one on your TBR list for sure. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and ended up liking it a lot.) ❤️
December 14, 2022
Thank you #netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review. I love holiday books and wanted to love this one based on the cover and title alone. The premise of 'stealing' had me on the fence, and after a few chapters in something just fizzled out for me, Robin and her friends seemed genuine and I enjoyed their banter and Jake was strong and competent character when it came to his job but then was kind of a disappointment in other aspects. The flow and continuity between the chapters was too broken at times and some situations and events should have gotten a better explanation. At times, situations and scenes just came out of no where or would just go away and it felt disjointed and I especially felt this way in regards to some of the scenes involving the 'villain'. Also, I get that it was a slow burn, but there seemed to have a major gap that should have had a bit more transition from the I don't like you stage to the oh I pine for you part in my opinion. 2.5 stars but rounded for 3 cuz you know-Christmas!
November 24, 2022
Genre| Romance - Christmas
|Synopsis|
With the help of her friends, Robin has been pocketing money from The Nottingham Hotel, where she works. This in an attempt to assist her brother and niece with their medical bills after an accident the previous year. Her plans are put into question when the Hotel hires Jake to investigate; however, whilst sharing an office, it may reveal more than they expect.
|Thoughts|
In this modern retelling of the classic Robin Hood, I found it a light and passable read. However, my enjoyment was limited as I really struggled to like Robin. As much as I sympathise and understand her reasoning, it just never sat well with me. Overall, I did enjoy it as a fast paced, clean romance, reminiscent of Hallmark Christmas movies.
Wasn’t really sure how the conflict would be resolved, but I think the author found a nice balance in the end. Robin truly has some loyal friends, and I enjoyed the dynamic between her and Jake. Although it can be difficult to really build a strong relationship in such a short story, the scenes they did share were the highlight for me. Also appreciated how the title was incorporated into the story.
🎄Christmas Magic🎄
Takes place from around thanksgiving to Christmas, with a variety of festive events thrown in there. Would have liked to have seen more on Christmas Day itself. But there were enough Christmas themed drinks, Christmas parties and sleigh rides to make up for that.
3/5 🎄
(I rate Christmas magic on a scale of 1 to 5 Christmas trees - higher the rating, the more Christmas magic there is).
Read this if you enjoy
✅stories about Christmas
✅workplace romance
✅clean romance
✅short, fast paced story
Thank you to @netgalley and the publisher for my advanced reader copy in exchange for this honest review.
🗓️PUB day: 25 Nov 2022
|Synopsis|
With the help of her friends, Robin has been pocketing money from The Nottingham Hotel, where she works. This in an attempt to assist her brother and niece with their medical bills after an accident the previous year. Her plans are put into question when the Hotel hires Jake to investigate; however, whilst sharing an office, it may reveal more than they expect.
|Thoughts|
In this modern retelling of the classic Robin Hood, I found it a light and passable read. However, my enjoyment was limited as I really struggled to like Robin. As much as I sympathise and understand her reasoning, it just never sat well with me. Overall, I did enjoy it as a fast paced, clean romance, reminiscent of Hallmark Christmas movies.
Wasn’t really sure how the conflict would be resolved, but I think the author found a nice balance in the end. Robin truly has some loyal friends, and I enjoyed the dynamic between her and Jake. Although it can be difficult to really build a strong relationship in such a short story, the scenes they did share were the highlight for me. Also appreciated how the title was incorporated into the story.
🎄Christmas Magic🎄
Takes place from around thanksgiving to Christmas, with a variety of festive events thrown in there. Would have liked to have seen more on Christmas Day itself. But there were enough Christmas themed drinks, Christmas parties and sleigh rides to make up for that.
3/5 🎄
(I rate Christmas magic on a scale of 1 to 5 Christmas trees - higher the rating, the more Christmas magic there is).
Read this if you enjoy
✅stories about Christmas
✅workplace romance
✅clean romance
✅short, fast paced story
Thank you to @netgalley and the publisher for my advanced reader copy in exchange for this honest review.
🗓️PUB day: 25 Nov 2022
November 18, 2022
I really wanted to love this one, the author is a Canadian CPA and I thought she would write some fun books while using her accounting knowledge.
Robin lost her sister-in-law to a car accident which left her brother reeling and her niece in a wheelchair. Facing a huge debt, Robin decides she will start skimming cash from work to help her brother. After profit declines her boss calls in auditors to look for fraud. Jake is trying to make partner sets out to figure out what is happening and who’s to blame. By the time Jake realizes that Robin is the most likely suspect he is head over heels in love with her.
I’m not sure if auditing works differently in Canada, or is the author is just unfamiliar with how fraud investigations work, but this book was just off. The liberties taken were just wrong. I’ve been an auditor a long time now, and I also hold a fraud investigator designation. Maybe I was just too knowledgeable on the subject to not scrutinize things, but this one didn’t work. I found the main character Robin to not be likable and while I was supposed to like her, I just didn’t. I also found Jake to be a spoiled brat. Also, what was the ending? It was just ridiculous and so unfathomable I was left wondering what I read. This one was a miss for me and next time I’ll think twice about reading a novel about my profession…
Thanks to @netgalley, the publisher SolVin Creative, and XPresso Book Tours for my advanced e-ARC in exchange for this honest review. This one is out November 25 and makes for a quick yet season friendly read.
Robin lost her sister-in-law to a car accident which left her brother reeling and her niece in a wheelchair. Facing a huge debt, Robin decides she will start skimming cash from work to help her brother. After profit declines her boss calls in auditors to look for fraud. Jake is trying to make partner sets out to figure out what is happening and who’s to blame. By the time Jake realizes that Robin is the most likely suspect he is head over heels in love with her.
I’m not sure if auditing works differently in Canada, or is the author is just unfamiliar with how fraud investigations work, but this book was just off. The liberties taken were just wrong. I’ve been an auditor a long time now, and I also hold a fraud investigator designation. Maybe I was just too knowledgeable on the subject to not scrutinize things, but this one didn’t work. I found the main character Robin to not be likable and while I was supposed to like her, I just didn’t. I also found Jake to be a spoiled brat. Also, what was the ending? It was just ridiculous and so unfathomable I was left wondering what I read. This one was a miss for me and next time I’ll think twice about reading a novel about my profession…
Thanks to @netgalley, the publisher SolVin Creative, and XPresso Book Tours for my advanced e-ARC in exchange for this honest review. This one is out November 25 and makes for a quick yet season friendly read.
November 23, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you like:
- Robin Hood
- forced proximity
- dual POV
- quick reads
After discovering that his bar is mysteriously losing a lot of money, St. Nottingham’s owner Charles hires Jake, an accountant, to figure out where the money is going. Things become a little tricky when he investigates Robin and her friends, who are simply shaving a little bit of money off the top of their workplace. They can definitely afford it! And it’s for a good cause! Jake and Robin are forced to share an office for the time being, and things get rather blurry rather quickly!
I love a dual POV! I love being able to see multiple sides of the same story at the same time.
I liked that this was a super quick read! It was perfect to break up my longer commitment books, and there wasn’t a ton of unnecessary details that most longer books are so guilty of doing. I just started reading and before I knew it my day was over 🤪
I enjoyed that this wasn’t just a typical rom com that all follow the exact same format … there was also a little bit of mystery and problem solving thrown in here. Very engaging!
The main character was very likeable (how could you not??!) and I was rooting alongside her to get her HEA 🥰
This was supposed to be a Christmas book, but I just didn’t get that Christmas feel reading it. I would have loved some more Christmas activities or descriptive snowy scenery, or something like that.
Overall a very enjoyable forced proximity rom com, with a little more of a story to it! Well done!
Read if you like:
- Robin Hood
- forced proximity
- dual POV
- quick reads
After discovering that his bar is mysteriously losing a lot of money, St. Nottingham’s owner Charles hires Jake, an accountant, to figure out where the money is going. Things become a little tricky when he investigates Robin and her friends, who are simply shaving a little bit of money off the top of their workplace. They can definitely afford it! And it’s for a good cause! Jake and Robin are forced to share an office for the time being, and things get rather blurry rather quickly!
I love a dual POV! I love being able to see multiple sides of the same story at the same time.
I liked that this was a super quick read! It was perfect to break up my longer commitment books, and there wasn’t a ton of unnecessary details that most longer books are so guilty of doing. I just started reading and before I knew it my day was over 🤪
I enjoyed that this wasn’t just a typical rom com that all follow the exact same format … there was also a little bit of mystery and problem solving thrown in here. Very engaging!
The main character was very likeable (how could you not??!) and I was rooting alongside her to get her HEA 🥰
This was supposed to be a Christmas book, but I just didn’t get that Christmas feel reading it. I would have loved some more Christmas activities or descriptive snowy scenery, or something like that.
Overall a very enjoyable forced proximity rom com, with a little more of a story to it! Well done!
Read
November 27, 2022DNF at 55%
If you’re really dedicated this book should only take a few hours to read. I could not bring myself to pick it up after several days, so decided to DNF.
This book was given as an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher for a fair and honest review.
It took me a few chapters to realize it was a Robin Hood retelling, her name is Robin! Should have caught that sooner lol. Robin and her friends are stealing from their employer to help pay for Robin’s niece medical expenses, unbeknownst to them an audit has been scheduled to figure out where the missing finances are coming from. Jake, is in charge of this audit, in the hopes of proving himself to his mother who owns the company to promote him as a partner. It’s supposed to be an enemies to lovers, which I don’t think is fair since they’ve known each other for less than 48 hours.
There was a lot of flip flopping in this book. At the beginning of one chapter Robin decides they are done stealing from the hotel and will find out a different way to get money, not even four pages later she’s completely changed her mind and wants to steal even more money? Why? There wasn’t anything plot wise that requires this. Also unnecessary details added. Like creating the craft project for the photo booth? Obviously it matches the cover, but could have been completely left out of the story.
I did skim to the end and everything was wrapped up nicely with a bow.
If you’re really dedicated this book should only take a few hours to read. I could not bring myself to pick it up after several days, so decided to DNF.
This book was given as an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher for a fair and honest review.
It took me a few chapters to realize it was a Robin Hood retelling, her name is Robin! Should have caught that sooner lol. Robin and her friends are stealing from their employer to help pay for Robin’s niece medical expenses, unbeknownst to them an audit has been scheduled to figure out where the missing finances are coming from. Jake, is in charge of this audit, in the hopes of proving himself to his mother who owns the company to promote him as a partner. It’s supposed to be an enemies to lovers, which I don’t think is fair since they’ve known each other for less than 48 hours.
There was a lot of flip flopping in this book. At the beginning of one chapter Robin decides they are done stealing from the hotel and will find out a different way to get money, not even four pages later she’s completely changed her mind and wants to steal even more money? Why? There wasn’t anything plot wise that requires this. Also unnecessary details added. Like creating the craft project for the photo booth? Obviously it matches the cover, but could have been completely left out of the story.
I did skim to the end and everything was wrapped up nicely with a bow.
November 4, 2022
This blurb absolutely hooked me!
‘Tis the season to be jolly . . . even to your enemy!
Robin and her band of merry women started stealing from The Nottingham hotel last holiday season when her niece’s medical bills became too much to bear. As this year’s holiday season approaches, Robin hopes to erase those bills for good, but there’s just one problem. Her scrooge of a boss is on to her little scheme, and he’s hired accounting firm Sterling Marian, LLP to find out what’s going on.
Uncovering the reason for The Nottingham’s recent financial woes will get Jake Marian’s boss of a mother off his back and secure his place as a partner of Sterling Marian, LLP. But when Jake is forced to share an office with the hotel’s events and excursions coordinator Robin, his task becomes more than he bargained for.
Unexpected sparks fly, and Robin and Jake learn there’s more to each other than meets the eye in this gender-swapped Robin Hood retelling with a modern-day, romcom twist, that’s sure to have you saying, “Fa La La” to love!
Such a fun, quick, easy to read Christmas themed romance book. Was it predictable? Of course! Most romance books are. Would I read it again? Possibly, it is certainly one that I would buy in paperback for my shelf.
Thank you to @netgalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
‘Tis the season to be jolly . . . even to your enemy!
Robin and her band of merry women started stealing from The Nottingham hotel last holiday season when her niece’s medical bills became too much to bear. As this year’s holiday season approaches, Robin hopes to erase those bills for good, but there’s just one problem. Her scrooge of a boss is on to her little scheme, and he’s hired accounting firm Sterling Marian, LLP to find out what’s going on.
Uncovering the reason for The Nottingham’s recent financial woes will get Jake Marian’s boss of a mother off his back and secure his place as a partner of Sterling Marian, LLP. But when Jake is forced to share an office with the hotel’s events and excursions coordinator Robin, his task becomes more than he bargained for.
Unexpected sparks fly, and Robin and Jake learn there’s more to each other than meets the eye in this gender-swapped Robin Hood retelling with a modern-day, romcom twist, that’s sure to have you saying, “Fa La La” to love!
Such a fun, quick, easy to read Christmas themed romance book. Was it predictable? Of course! Most romance books are. Would I read it again? Possibly, it is certainly one that I would buy in paperback for my shelf.
Thank you to @netgalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
December 11, 2022
While this was a fast paced, quirky Christmas time Robin Hood retelling, it just fell a bit short for me. It was in no sense bad nor was the writing bad it just wasn’t the novel for me. My biggest issue being that I didn’t find the characters very relatable. Robin and her group of merry gentlewomen are skimming a little cash off the top in order to help pay for her nieces surgery after her brother, niece and sister in law were all in an accident the year previous and can’t afford anymore hospital bills. While I wanted to love this story it felt like the Christmas part of it kind of took a back seat, I mean yes there were mentions of decorating, and Christmas parties and such but it felt like Christmas time aspect was just a backdrop for the story. Unfortunately, where I felt like the story lost me was with how the characters came off, I felt our main female main character Robin, was harsh and a bit mean, while also being a bit naïve about how much trouble she would really be in if Jake uncovered her behind the scene scheme. While Jake on the other hand came off young and oblivious, honestly whenever he talked to Robin it seemed like this was his first time flirting with a girl. And unfortunately that’s where the story lost me. Don’t just take my word for it though, go out and read this yourself :)
HAPPY READING!! 📖
HAPPY READING!! 📖
December 12, 2022
2.5 Stars, rounded up for GR
In this Robin Hood retelling, Robin is stealing thousands of dollars from the hotel chain she works for in order to pay the hospital bills of her niece. Right when she has almost finished stashing away the last f the money she needs, the hotel hires an account to figure out why cash sales have seen a sharp decline in the past year.
I really wanted to love this book. It was advertised as an enemies-to-lovers with that catchy tagline, but it was really more of an instalove. From the moment they met, Robin and Jake are into each other, and there is actually little tension due to the fact that he is literally trying to expose her crimes. I guess neither of them thinks stealing huge amounts of money is that problematic? I also was expecting a little bit of spice. Not a ton, but maybe something more than the two kisses they share throughout the entire book. Also, they were never really together during the story, which made me feel like I wasn't reading a romance at all. I finished the book in a couple of hours, and was sort of shocked that there were no real consequences for Robin.
Read if you like:
instant love
no spice
books you can finish in one sitting
Thank you NetGalley for the free eARC copy in exchange for my honest review. Fa La La is out now!
In this Robin Hood retelling, Robin is stealing thousands of dollars from the hotel chain she works for in order to pay the hospital bills of her niece. Right when she has almost finished stashing away the last f the money she needs, the hotel hires an account to figure out why cash sales have seen a sharp decline in the past year.
I really wanted to love this book. It was advertised as an enemies-to-lovers with that catchy tagline, but it was really more of an instalove. From the moment they met, Robin and Jake are into each other, and there is actually little tension due to the fact that he is literally trying to expose her crimes. I guess neither of them thinks stealing huge amounts of money is that problematic? I also was expecting a little bit of spice. Not a ton, but maybe something more than the two kisses they share throughout the entire book. Also, they were never really together during the story, which made me feel like I wasn't reading a romance at all. I finished the book in a couple of hours, and was sort of shocked that there were no real consequences for Robin.
Read if you like:
instant love
no spice
books you can finish in one sitting
Thank you NetGalley for the free eARC copy in exchange for my honest review. Fa La La is out now!
November 28, 2022
Pub. Date: Nov. 25, 2022 (Out now!)
CW: spouse death, fatal car accident
FORMAT: 📱
THE GOOD: I usually find Christmas books far too cheesy for my liking, but I devoured this in under 24 hours and it was the perfect choice to get me in the Christmas spirit! Now to see if it got me out of my reading slump. 🙃 It was not cheesy at all. I loved Robin and her friend group and I think I liked the story so much because, even though they went about things the wrong way, their intentions were still good and it wasn't like Robin was a horrible person who did bad things without remorse. The themes of family and friendship were very strong throughout the book, which I loved. I also appreciated that the disabled character was written well and that the other characters didn't feel sorry for her. If you're looking for a holiday book to get you in the spirit, I definitely recommend picking this up! Thank you to NetGalley and SolVin Creative for the e-ARC in exchange for my review!
THE BAD: There were so many references to Scarlet's red hair, which was just annoying and unnecessary.
Favourite quote: Brad gives me a hug. "I'm sure we'll both find jobs in no time. And if we don't, we'll figure things out." He smiles then adds, "Something less criminal." 😂
CW: spouse death, fatal car accident
FORMAT: 📱
THE GOOD: I usually find Christmas books far too cheesy for my liking, but I devoured this in under 24 hours and it was the perfect choice to get me in the Christmas spirit! Now to see if it got me out of my reading slump. 🙃 It was not cheesy at all. I loved Robin and her friend group and I think I liked the story so much because, even though they went about things the wrong way, their intentions were still good and it wasn't like Robin was a horrible person who did bad things without remorse. The themes of family and friendship were very strong throughout the book, which I loved. I also appreciated that the disabled character was written well and that the other characters didn't feel sorry for her. If you're looking for a holiday book to get you in the spirit, I definitely recommend picking this up! Thank you to NetGalley and SolVin Creative for the e-ARC in exchange for my review!
THE BAD: There were so many references to Scarlet's red hair, which was just annoying and unnecessary.
Favourite quote: Brad gives me a hug. "I'm sure we'll both find jobs in no time. And if we don't, we'll figure things out." He smiles then adds, "Something less criminal." 😂
November 10, 2022
Fa La La
by Michelle Cornish
Earc:NetGalley
Publisher: Solvin Creative
Publication Date:25 November 2022
Genre :General Fiction, Romance
This is the perfect holiday read. From the cover to the blurb, I was thrilled to read it so quickly. I loved it from start to finish.I later found out that this was a transsexual retelling of Robin Hood and loved the description. I can't wait for the release, so I can buy a physical copy for my bookshelf! I think this book has the potential to be very good. A love story with two interesting and conflicting pursuits? Yes, please! I didn't think the story was optimally executed and it felt very rushed at the end. The plot development wasn't all that great, especially considering the amount of opportunities she had to learn! I also felt that the supporting characters were mentioned a lot, but their personalities were interesting enough. but didn't add anything to the story! Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for sending me this ARC of hers. All opinions are my own
#NetGalley #bookstagram #bookreview #goodreads #romance #generalfiction @Solvin Creative
November 23, 2022
This is one of the most unique Christmas novels I have read. How the author thought that embezzlement was a good plot device for a romantic holiday offering was very original. Yes, The premise is based on a modern-day version of Robin Hood, but it did work for some Christmas endearment.
Robin (the main character) enlisted the help of her three friends/coworkers to steal funds from their employer, The Nottingham Hotel. The reason for their actions was to assist her (Robin’s) brother in paying off huge medical bills following an accident that cost him his wife and left his daughter in a wheelchair. While this was a noble intent, the short-term benefit did not seem wise when considering the potentially severe consequences. Her redeeming quality was that she felt guilty for jeopardizing her friends and family’s welfare.
The use of names (Nottingham, Sherwood, Robin, Marian, Sheriff) created a link to the original Robin Hood story, but as a literary device, it was quaint and quite cute. I overall enjoyed the book and thought it was a refreshing change of pace to how most holiday romance novels are at this time of year.
Robin (the main character) enlisted the help of her three friends/coworkers to steal funds from their employer, The Nottingham Hotel. The reason for their actions was to assist her (Robin’s) brother in paying off huge medical bills following an accident that cost him his wife and left his daughter in a wheelchair. While this was a noble intent, the short-term benefit did not seem wise when considering the potentially severe consequences. Her redeeming quality was that she felt guilty for jeopardizing her friends and family’s welfare.
The use of names (Nottingham, Sherwood, Robin, Marian, Sheriff) created a link to the original Robin Hood story, but as a literary device, it was quaint and quite cute. I overall enjoyed the book and thought it was a refreshing change of pace to how most holiday romance novels are at this time of year.
November 27, 2022
📚: Fa La La by Michelle Cornish (@michellejcornish)
⭐️: 2/5
Meet Robin. She and her friends work together at the Nottingham Hotel - and have questionably (read: illegally) skimming cash from their employer in hopes to pay down medical bills for Robin’s niece. Noticing the cash flow dip, the Nottingham hires accountants Jake & Ty to investigate what’s going on, and, of course, sparks fly. (Because nothing says Christmas love like embezzlement?)
I don’t read many novellas, but even at just 170 pages, this felt longer than a quick read with its slow pacing and an undeveloped plot that feels thrown together. The ending literally made me go, “what?” - and not in a good way.
This book had so much potential that just didn’t happen. The authors note in the beginning mentioned that they weren’t planning to write a Christmas book this year but “had to” after seeing the cover art. The story and plot feels forced in the same way that maybe the cover art forced the story (when it should have been the other way around?).
Just released on Friday for this holiday season, thank you to SolVin Creative via @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. #gifted
⭐️: 2/5
Meet Robin. She and her friends work together at the Nottingham Hotel - and have questionably (read: illegally) skimming cash from their employer in hopes to pay down medical bills for Robin’s niece. Noticing the cash flow dip, the Nottingham hires accountants Jake & Ty to investigate what’s going on, and, of course, sparks fly. (Because nothing says Christmas love like embezzlement?)
I don’t read many novellas, but even at just 170 pages, this felt longer than a quick read with its slow pacing and an undeveloped plot that feels thrown together. The ending literally made me go, “what?” - and not in a good way.
This book had so much potential that just didn’t happen. The authors note in the beginning mentioned that they weren’t planning to write a Christmas book this year but “had to” after seeing the cover art. The story and plot feels forced in the same way that maybe the cover art forced the story (when it should have been the other way around?).
Just released on Friday for this holiday season, thank you to SolVin Creative via @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. #gifted
December 10, 2023
I’m slightly late in writing this review. The story is about Robin and her friends and family. She has been embezzling money from her employer to help her family after a tragedy with the assistance of her friends. It had a Robin Hood type of feel in that sense. Overall I don’t morally agree with the action of the FMC at all. I understand wanting to help family but not at the expense of criminal activity and putting those you care about in harms way. The MMC Jake has been hired to look at the finances to determine why they have had such a loss. He has to share an office with the FMC. They are enemies due to circumstances. Robin instantly dislikes him as she is fearful she will be discovered. Although she is attracted to him. Jake is attracted to her as well. Overall the story is interesting in the sense I don’t DNF but it sort of builds too quickly and it’s like an instant love without the foundation built. He also seems to just skirt over the fact she is stealing from the hotel to which has been hired to investigate. I just feel like it’s an unrealistic story in the sense. I did like Tina and Robin friends. I think it’s okay story for the Christmas season.
December 16, 2022
*** 3.5 ⭐️***
A holiday enemies-to-lovers/Robin Hood story.
Robin’s brother and niece have hospital bills to pay, and Robin devises a plan (with the help of her co-workers) to get them the money they need to pay off their debts. When a new accounting firm gets brought in to figure out who’s stealing from the hotel, Robin is sure she’ll be standing in the unemployment line very soon. What Robin doesn’t see coming is an intense attraction to the new number cruncher sharing her office.
Character development was sufficient regarding Robin and Jake. I would’ve preferred a little more about the secondary characters as well - but that’s a personal preference. Also, Jake’s mother was a bit of a nuisance and highly unprofessional. I’m not exactly sure why her character was essential in the story, as it got confusing when she was described as Cruella De Vil (would’ve sufficed to stick with one fable, instead of bringing another into the mix as well).
This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
A holiday enemies-to-lovers/Robin Hood story.
Robin’s brother and niece have hospital bills to pay, and Robin devises a plan (with the help of her co-workers) to get them the money they need to pay off their debts. When a new accounting firm gets brought in to figure out who’s stealing from the hotel, Robin is sure she’ll be standing in the unemployment line very soon. What Robin doesn’t see coming is an intense attraction to the new number cruncher sharing her office.
Character development was sufficient regarding Robin and Jake. I would’ve preferred a little more about the secondary characters as well - but that’s a personal preference. Also, Jake’s mother was a bit of a nuisance and highly unprofessional. I’m not exactly sure why her character was essential in the story, as it got confusing when she was described as Cruella De Vil (would’ve sufficed to stick with one fable, instead of bringing another into the mix as well).
This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2022
“Carried away was what I did when I went so overboard with Christmas decorations, I couldn’t see the tree anymore. This isn’t carried away; this is exhilarating”
This book was a cute and quick read, filled with festive fun & all the warm tidings of the winter season. However, it lacked a lot of the drama that rom-com style books advertise. The cute modern day Robin Hood with reversed roles of a woman trying to do right in the wrong ways was definitely a cute twist. The whole novel was just super predictable. It didn’t seem very original or like there was enough drama to really keep me invested. I think if there was a few more plot twists and some extra heartstrings being pulled, it could’ve definitely been a 5-star read! I also felt it needed a lot more emotion to truly be considered enemy to lovers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was a cute and quick read, filled with festive fun & all the warm tidings of the winter season. However, it lacked a lot of the drama that rom-com style books advertise. The cute modern day Robin Hood with reversed roles of a woman trying to do right in the wrong ways was definitely a cute twist. The whole novel was just super predictable. It didn’t seem very original or like there was enough drama to really keep me invested. I think if there was a few more plot twists and some extra heartstrings being pulled, it could’ve definitely been a 5-star read! I also felt it needed a lot more emotion to truly be considered enemy to lovers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2022
Unique spin on a modern Robin Hood retelling! It was fun and quick Christmas read, definitely a great addition to your Christmas TBR list! I think this was the perfect length and having a morally gray character be the female was refreshing and I really enjoyed that aspect.
I feel like the romance could have been a bit more developed BUT I really liked the chemistry between Robin and Jake. I loved the friendships between Robin and her band of merry women and Jake with his friends. LOVE reading books that have strong support circles. Jake was also sooo cute with Robin's niece and the way he was drawn to Robin was pretty adorable too.
Over all I really enjoyed the authors style of writing it was easy to read and when I tell you im OBSESSED with retellings this was a neat take on that subgenre. Definitely recommend.
Thank you to SolVin Creative and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like the romance could have been a bit more developed BUT I really liked the chemistry between Robin and Jake. I loved the friendships between Robin and her band of merry women and Jake with his friends. LOVE reading books that have strong support circles. Jake was also sooo cute with Robin's niece and the way he was drawn to Robin was pretty adorable too.
Over all I really enjoyed the authors style of writing it was easy to read and when I tell you im OBSESSED with retellings this was a neat take on that subgenre. Definitely recommend.
Thank you to SolVin Creative and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2022
If you’re looking for an insta-love, with no spice, but they’re almost immediately head over heels and ready to risk everything for one another… this is for you. Like, she’s committing fraud while stealing cash from the hotel she works at and he’s the accountant that is catching her, and he’s ready to risk it all and just… why? I mean, I get it. Family struggles, medical bills, the whole shebang. Trust me, I get it. But I wouldn’t steal cash from my job (and risk my livelihood especially when I'm supporting my brother and disabled niece) and have my friends risking their jobs too to try and help. Especially with her brother not even knowing about the cash.
I get that it’s the holiday season so people like a feel good story. But morals and ethics are still a thing. I couldn’t get over the FMC getting upset with the MMC for doing his job as an accountant doing an audit because she literally stole tens of thousands of dollars cash from her job. I just… no. I almost DNF’d it, but couldn’t bring myself to not finish it.
I get that it’s the holiday season so people like a feel good story. But morals and ethics are still a thing. I couldn’t get over the FMC getting upset with the MMC for doing his job as an accountant doing an audit because she literally stole tens of thousands of dollars cash from her job. I just… no. I almost DNF’d it, but couldn’t bring myself to not finish it.
November 4, 2022
This book feels like a Lifetime holiday movie, complete with a sad backstory, tons of drama, and of course a little romance.
After a tragic accident left Robin’s brother a widower and her niece in a wheelchair, she knew she wanted to help them. So Robin and her friends devised a plan to help take care of her family.. by stealing from her job. Things were going well with the plan for almost a full year, until her bosses started noticing some discrepancies and hired a team of outside accountants to investigate. When unexpected sparks fly between Robin and one of the accountants Jake, she struggles to keep her plan under wraps. Will she be able to keep her secret long enough to help her brother or will the whole thing go up in smoke?
Between the drama, the characters, and of course the lovable side characters I was absolutely hooked. Robin has some of the best friends you could ever dream of (I really don’t think any of my friends would help me steal from our job) and Jake has a heart of gold. It’s clear that Robin loves her family and is willing to do anything it takes to help them.
This is an easy holiday read with all of those cosy holiday vibes, including a romantic carriage ride, with a dash of drama to keep things interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for my review.
After a tragic accident left Robin’s brother a widower and her niece in a wheelchair, she knew she wanted to help them. So Robin and her friends devised a plan to help take care of her family.. by stealing from her job. Things were going well with the plan for almost a full year, until her bosses started noticing some discrepancies and hired a team of outside accountants to investigate. When unexpected sparks fly between Robin and one of the accountants Jake, she struggles to keep her plan under wraps. Will she be able to keep her secret long enough to help her brother or will the whole thing go up in smoke?
Between the drama, the characters, and of course the lovable side characters I was absolutely hooked. Robin has some of the best friends you could ever dream of (I really don’t think any of my friends would help me steal from our job) and Jake has a heart of gold. It’s clear that Robin loves her family and is willing to do anything it takes to help them.
This is an easy holiday read with all of those cosy holiday vibes, including a romantic carriage ride, with a dash of drama to keep things interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for my review.
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