stephsbooktalk's profile picture

stephsbooktalk 's review for:

You Had Me at Happy Hour by Timothy Janovsky
4.0

Thank you so much to Harlequin & Timothy for an advance copy of this!

This book will be out July 22nd.

Timothy is an autobuy author & when I saw the cover for this book, I fell absolutely in love with it! He continues to have a variety of stories and characters to his repertoire.

Sighhh - Julien and Greg. They were opposite attracts and yet so completely gone for one another. The representation that Timothy created for both of these characters was super important to see on page. Julien has OCD & is neurodivergent and oftentimes finds that his partners cannot handle his specific requests and how sensitive he is too smells. Greg has GAD and his medication makes it hard for him to perform in the bedroom for his partners. Julien was so tender with Greg and they were able to have this dynamic that worked for them. I also thought the inclusions of toys was a fun twist to add to their intimate moments. I love how their relationship developed over time and got a chuckle at how Greg weaseled his way to a paint and sip with Julien. I think that night really changed everything and it snowballed (pun intended iykyk) from there.

"Everybody wants quick. That's why they choose the shot or the cocktail over the wine. They want a fast buzz, an immediate good time. On the Grindr grid, I'm the merlot you have to decant for forty-minutes before serving, not the tequila shot. I know that. I get it."

Majority of the book is navigating the work dynamic between Julien and Greg but we also get these other moments that are meaningful. I loved anytime Uncle Martin and Aunt Augustine were involved. There was such a sweet moment towards the end between Julien and Aunt Augustine that just made my heart so happy. I also loved Greg's relationship with his cousin Rufus. We didn't get too many scenes of them together but Rufus and his gf Jessica just seemed to want was what best for Greg.

I thought this book felt very current with the incorporation of Tik Tok and the rise and fall of creators. I also liked thow Timothy shed light on the ever frustrating algorithm that all types of creators face on the different platforms.

If you are looking for a small town vibe, spicy moments with characters who have great mental rep & lots of delicious drinks - check this out!

PS - I love that this took place in Bethlehem!!! It's such a charming city & I wish Martin's Place existed in real life!!