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Lovesome
My warm breath makes a beautiful fog before me. It's times like this when I feel most alive. I feel free, and at one with the world and everything around me. It's an invigorating version of euphoria. But I don't want to arrive home to no one; I want someone to come home to.
It's 1995 and 21-year-old Joni Johnson is fresh out of art school and loving her life. Working at Harland, a French restaurant, makes her happy - it's as romantic as she is herself. Harland's owner, Lucy, and chef, Dave, make her evenings both entertaining and complicated. By day, Joni sets up her easel in her backyard bungalow, turns on her music, and paints.
But when Joni's best friend, Annabelle, arrives on the doorstep one night ecstatic in love, everything changes. The life Joni has built for herself seems lacklustre in comparison to Annabelle's rising star. And when Annabelle makes a beeline for the one man who seems interested in Joni, it looks unlikely that their friendship will survive.
Tender, funny and romantic, Lovesome is a triumph.
It's 1995 and 21-year-old Joni Johnson is fresh out of art school and loving her life. Working at Harland, a French restaurant, makes her happy - it's as romantic as she is herself. Harland's owner, Lucy, and chef, Dave, make her evenings both entertaining and complicated. By day, Joni sets up her easel in her backyard bungalow, turns on her music, and paints.
But when Joni's best friend, Annabelle, arrives on the doorstep one night ecstatic in love, everything changes. The life Joni has built for herself seems lacklustre in comparison to Annabelle's rising star. And when Annabelle makes a beeline for the one man who seems interested in Joni, it looks unlikely that their friendship will survive.
Tender, funny and romantic, Lovesome is a triumph.
256 pages, Paperback
First published April 24, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 13, 2019
This book baffled me. I have been trying to work out my feelings toward it. I am left feeling underwhelmed, uninterested and despondent about it all. It may have something to do with the fact it was set in the 90's? I spent my teens here and the fashion was also bland, and a little daggy if I was to be honest. Perhaps I think this book is a bit daggy?
Joni likes to think she is a free spirited arts graduate, she loves to paint in the daytime and work for her bread and butter money at a French restaurant in the evenings. Finding love is her top priority, but she seems to be immature, condescending toward others in her inner dialogue; she is boring and lacking any personality. She had been fixated on losing her virginity, bordering on being embarrassed by her virginity status. Her boss is beautiful and oddly mean and times, then became nice at the end. Joni is a little obsessed with her beauty; superficial in a way. Joni sees her having sex on a table at work with the chef that she thought she may have been attracted to, then decides no, she isn't attracted to him anymore. The relationship between the chef and the owner was neither here nor there, as was the guy Joni ends up falling for.
Enter her best friend who is an instant man magnet who falls in love at the drop of a hat, and always gets the guy as she is a gorgeous and famous singer who ends up sleeping on Joni's couch for months. They have the expected jealousy issue which is conveniently forgotten after five minutes. The man Joni falls in love with seems semi interesting, but their coupling lacks any spark or chemistry at all. The best friend finds a new guy that seems a bit of a no-hoper, but they seem to find a match quickly without effort, as well.
An underwhelming read, that lacked a lot of spark for me I am afraid. I think it lacked maturity.
With thanks to Allan & Unwin for my hard advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review, a shame I can't deliver positively in this instance.
Joni likes to think she is a free spirited arts graduate, she loves to paint in the daytime and work for her bread and butter money at a French restaurant in the evenings. Finding love is her top priority, but she seems to be immature, condescending toward others in her inner dialogue; she is boring and lacking any personality. She had been fixated on losing her virginity, bordering on being embarrassed by her virginity status. Her boss is beautiful and oddly mean and times, then became nice at the end. Joni is a little obsessed with her beauty; superficial in a way. Joni sees her having sex on a table at work with the chef that she thought she may have been attracted to, then decides no, she isn't attracted to him anymore. The relationship between the chef and the owner was neither here nor there, as was the guy Joni ends up falling for.
Enter her best friend who is an instant man magnet who falls in love at the drop of a hat, and always gets the guy as she is a gorgeous and famous singer who ends up sleeping on Joni's couch for months. They have the expected jealousy issue which is conveniently forgotten after five minutes. The man Joni falls in love with seems semi interesting, but their coupling lacks any spark or chemistry at all. The best friend finds a new guy that seems a bit of a no-hoper, but they seem to find a match quickly without effort, as well.
An underwhelming read, that lacked a lot of spark for me I am afraid. I think it lacked maturity.
With thanks to Allan & Unwin for my hard advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review, a shame I can't deliver positively in this instance.
April 5, 2021
3.5 Stars
Lovesome is a charming story about friendships and finding love when you least expected it.
Joni, at 21 years old, her life is perfect. She’s able to do what she loves doing during the day, which is painting, and earns a little money at nights working as a waitress in a French restaurant, Harland, in the inner city suburbs of Sydney. The only thing missing in her life is someone to share it with.
Lovesome is a novel probably best suited to someone younger then me. I enjoyed it but couldn’t really relate to Joni’s problems, and had to remind myself often how young she is. Generally she’s a good person at heart but she’s got so much to learn about people and life. In her head, she can be quite judgmental and shallow; forming a negative opinion about a person by their body odor, how they dressed or acted. She had a lot of growing up to do. But she improved throughout the course of the novel, realizing her mistakes when she took the time to talk to these people and hear their stories.
The tiff surrounding Annabelle, her best friend, and Joni didn’t escalate to anything major and was resolved fairly quickly. However I did like the author’s distinctive style. She paints beautiful, vivid descriptions of the scenery; with her rustic interior of Joni’s cottage, and the gothic atmosphere and antiques of Harland. Her backdrop came alive.
Quick read and simple storyline - one to just kick back and enjoy.
Thanks to the publisher, Allen and Unwin, for my review copy
Lovesome is a charming story about friendships and finding love when you least expected it.
Joni, at 21 years old, her life is perfect. She’s able to do what she loves doing during the day, which is painting, and earns a little money at nights working as a waitress in a French restaurant, Harland, in the inner city suburbs of Sydney. The only thing missing in her life is someone to share it with.
Lovesome is a novel probably best suited to someone younger then me. I enjoyed it but couldn’t really relate to Joni’s problems, and had to remind myself often how young she is. Generally she’s a good person at heart but she’s got so much to learn about people and life. In her head, she can be quite judgmental and shallow; forming a negative opinion about a person by their body odor, how they dressed or acted. She had a lot of growing up to do. But she improved throughout the course of the novel, realizing her mistakes when she took the time to talk to these people and hear their stories.
The tiff surrounding Annabelle, her best friend, and Joni didn’t escalate to anything major and was resolved fairly quickly. However I did like the author’s distinctive style. She paints beautiful, vivid descriptions of the scenery; with her rustic interior of Joni’s cottage, and the gothic atmosphere and antiques of Harland. Her backdrop came alive.
Quick read and simple storyline - one to just kick back and enjoy.
Thanks to the publisher, Allen and Unwin, for my review copy
April 22, 2018
At 21 years of age, Joni Johnson is supporting herself as an artist by working nights at a French restaurant in Balmain, Sydney. She lives close by, in a bungalow at the bottom of the garden belonging to a childless, middle-aged couple. All in all, Joni loves her life but for two things; 1) she really, really wants her first boyfriend to come along, and 2) she misses her best friend Annabelle who is living in London, trying to break into the international music scene.
Very early in the story Annabelle arrives back in Sydney and bunks down on Joni's couch. That's one problem solved - now she just needs the boyfriend!
The writing's fine, but the story is fairly forgettable. There's very little tension (despite what it says in the blurb) and what there is, is always resolved within a few pages.
My favourite character was actually the French restaurant, Harland! I really enjoyed the detailed descriptions of the decor and the workings of the restaurant. Luckily most of the story takes place there.
Out of the human characters I thought the mercurial Lucy (restaurant-owner) was the most interesting. Annabelle came across as selfish, vain and shallow. Seltmann had the opportunity there to create some of the much-needed tension by having Annabelle found out in a lie, or betray the guileless Joni, but it just never quite happened. Joni herself was just so young! I can't decide whether it was immaturity or just that 21 year olds were younger in 1995, when the story was set, than they are now. Also, I found being inside Joni's head for the whole book was at times quite exhausting...
This book would make a pleasant, relaxing holiday read.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for an ARC to review.
Very early in the story Annabelle arrives back in Sydney and bunks down on Joni's couch. That's one problem solved - now she just needs the boyfriend!
The writing's fine, but the story is fairly forgettable. There's very little tension (despite what it says in the blurb) and what there is, is always resolved within a few pages.
My favourite character was actually the French restaurant, Harland! I really enjoyed the detailed descriptions of the decor and the workings of the restaurant. Luckily most of the story takes place there.
Out of the human characters I thought the mercurial Lucy (restaurant-owner) was the most interesting. Annabelle came across as selfish, vain and shallow. Seltmann had the opportunity there to create some of the much-needed tension by having Annabelle found out in a lie, or betray the guileless Joni, but it just never quite happened. Joni herself was just so young! I can't decide whether it was immaturity or just that 21 year olds were younger in 1995, when the story was set, than they are now. Also, I found being inside Joni's head for the whole book was at times quite exhausting...
This book would make a pleasant, relaxing holiday read.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for an ARC to review.
May 17, 2018
3.5 stars
It took me a while to get a handle on the main character in this light, gentle romance novel. Twenty one year old Joni Johnson initially appeared to be a bit of a nerd and a prig, rather egotistical and devoid of humour. I found it difficult to like her in the opening pages of the book, and wondered if she would improve as the story progressed.
Then...I "got" her. Underneath her rather snooty words lies a vulnerable, under-confident young woman who is desperate for approval, and easily disparaged when she does not get recognition. Her inner self-talk is almost always negative, as she struggles with her feelings towards friends and in the workplace.
What a workplace! Harland is an esteemed and popular French restaurant in Balmain, Sydney, in 1995. Its owner, Parisienne sophisticate Lucy is somewhat of a style icon, with her eclectic tastes and eye for retro detail. Joni adores Lucy for her talents, but cringes at the lashes of her boss's sharp tongue. Deeply insecure, Joni grapples with her feelings, which makes her relationship with Lucy and colleagues somewhat ambivalent. Her stalwart friend at the restaurant, Dave the chef, is her confidante and advisor on emotional issues. Love seems to elude Joni until a hunky photographer arrives on the scene to take photos of her friend Annabelle...
It would be easy to dismiss this book as a cliche about 'girl finds happiness with handsome man', and indeed Joni's search for love is a major thread in the narrative. But Joni has more substance than that. A gifted artist, she works hard at her paintings and has a genuine creative talent. Although she harbours feelings of insecurity, she discovers that she is admired by her friends as a strong, independent young woman, and eventually these qualities shine through.
By the end of this pleasant and amusing piece of chick lit, Joni had won me over. The novel finishes on a high, and I was certain that Joni would get what she needed in life, including love.
Thanks to the publisher Allen and Unwin for my copy of the uncorrected proof of this book.
It took me a while to get a handle on the main character in this light, gentle romance novel. Twenty one year old Joni Johnson initially appeared to be a bit of a nerd and a prig, rather egotistical and devoid of humour. I found it difficult to like her in the opening pages of the book, and wondered if she would improve as the story progressed.
Then...I "got" her. Underneath her rather snooty words lies a vulnerable, under-confident young woman who is desperate for approval, and easily disparaged when she does not get recognition. Her inner self-talk is almost always negative, as she struggles with her feelings towards friends and in the workplace.
What a workplace! Harland is an esteemed and popular French restaurant in Balmain, Sydney, in 1995. Its owner, Parisienne sophisticate Lucy is somewhat of a style icon, with her eclectic tastes and eye for retro detail. Joni adores Lucy for her talents, but cringes at the lashes of her boss's sharp tongue. Deeply insecure, Joni grapples with her feelings, which makes her relationship with Lucy and colleagues somewhat ambivalent. Her stalwart friend at the restaurant, Dave the chef, is her confidante and advisor on emotional issues. Love seems to elude Joni until a hunky photographer arrives on the scene to take photos of her friend Annabelle...
It would be easy to dismiss this book as a cliche about 'girl finds happiness with handsome man', and indeed Joni's search for love is a major thread in the narrative. But Joni has more substance than that. A gifted artist, she works hard at her paintings and has a genuine creative talent. Although she harbours feelings of insecurity, she discovers that she is admired by her friends as a strong, independent young woman, and eventually these qualities shine through.
By the end of this pleasant and amusing piece of chick lit, Joni had won me over. The novel finishes on a high, and I was certain that Joni would get what she needed in life, including love.
Thanks to the publisher Allen and Unwin for my copy of the uncorrected proof of this book.
May 2, 2018
3.5★s
Lovesome is the first novel by Australian singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and author, Sally Seltmann. At twenty-one years old, artist Joni Johnson has a job that perfectly suits her lifestyle: she works five nights a week at a French restaurant, and paints during the day. Joni lives in a backyard bungalow within cycling distance of Harland in Balmain East. Her boss, Lucy Bourdillon is a beautiful, charismatic French woman with somewhat unpredictable moods; Joni mostly gets on well with the rest of the staff, but especially with Dave, the chef, with whom she has an easy rapport. Life is pretty good, although a boyfriend would improve it.
When Joni finds Annabelle Reed on her doorstep one night, she knows life isn’t going to be quite the same. Annabelle is her best friend since school, a popular singer/musician whose work has brought her fame and taken her to London and New York. And if her presence makes Joni feel less that satisfied with her own achievements, it’s OK because she and Annabelle love each other. Everything with Annabelle is larger than life: her desirability, her career, her relationships, her problems, her heartbreaks. Having Annabelle sharing her flat is as disruptive as it is exciting.
Seltmann’s protagonist is less than endearing to begin with: completely self-absorbed; often highly critical of others; her opinions of others oscillating wildly between adulation or awe and disapproval or disgust; rapidly switching loyalties; and generally acting more like a sixteen-year-old than her actual age. Luckily, as she learns a few of life’s lessons, develops some maturity and realises what is important, she becomes less irritating. By the close of the novel, the reader may actually be pleased for her at the direction her life is taking. There’s some nice descriptive prose in this impressive debut novel.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for this copy to read and review.
Lovesome is the first novel by Australian singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and author, Sally Seltmann. At twenty-one years old, artist Joni Johnson has a job that perfectly suits her lifestyle: she works five nights a week at a French restaurant, and paints during the day. Joni lives in a backyard bungalow within cycling distance of Harland in Balmain East. Her boss, Lucy Bourdillon is a beautiful, charismatic French woman with somewhat unpredictable moods; Joni mostly gets on well with the rest of the staff, but especially with Dave, the chef, with whom she has an easy rapport. Life is pretty good, although a boyfriend would improve it.
When Joni finds Annabelle Reed on her doorstep one night, she knows life isn’t going to be quite the same. Annabelle is her best friend since school, a popular singer/musician whose work has brought her fame and taken her to London and New York. And if her presence makes Joni feel less that satisfied with her own achievements, it’s OK because she and Annabelle love each other. Everything with Annabelle is larger than life: her desirability, her career, her relationships, her problems, her heartbreaks. Having Annabelle sharing her flat is as disruptive as it is exciting.
Seltmann’s protagonist is less than endearing to begin with: completely self-absorbed; often highly critical of others; her opinions of others oscillating wildly between adulation or awe and disapproval or disgust; rapidly switching loyalties; and generally acting more like a sixteen-year-old than her actual age. Luckily, as she learns a few of life’s lessons, develops some maturity and realises what is important, she becomes less irritating. By the close of the novel, the reader may actually be pleased for her at the direction her life is taking. There’s some nice descriptive prose in this impressive debut novel.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for this copy to read and review.
June 16, 2018
I was looking for a light, easy to read book between readings for the reading group I am in and this one sounded perfect. And it was.
This pleasant read is about friendship, living, learning, love and life. The story of a young girl who is happy with her lot in life and her friendships but sometimes thinks she is missing something. A boyfriend. But this doesn't really bother her that much until a certain series of events happen which seems to bring out the fact she really isn't confident with how her life is going.
So between her workplace, friends, best friend and a chance meeting things change. But I won't give anything away as it is worth the read.
I wouldn't classify this as a true romance novel, more a novel of friendships, life and love. It is a great first book for Sally Seltmann, I would recommend it if you are looking for a feel good novel to read and I think we all need a feel good book from time to time.
Thank you Allen & Unwin.LovesomeSally Seltmann
This pleasant read is about friendship, living, learning, love and life. The story of a young girl who is happy with her lot in life and her friendships but sometimes thinks she is missing something. A boyfriend. But this doesn't really bother her that much until a certain series of events happen which seems to bring out the fact she really isn't confident with how her life is going.
So between her workplace, friends, best friend and a chance meeting things change. But I won't give anything away as it is worth the read.
I wouldn't classify this as a true romance novel, more a novel of friendships, life and love. It is a great first book for Sally Seltmann, I would recommend it if you are looking for a feel good novel to read and I think we all need a feel good book from time to time.
Thank you Allen & Unwin.LovesomeSally Seltmann
June 2, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Lovesome, written by debut author Sally Seltmann, is an alternative but gentle love story that completely encapsulates the sense of longing felt by those experiencing first love. A strong character driven story, it centres on a sweet lead, twenty one year old art school graduate Joni and a cast of eclectic friends, colleagues and love interests who colour her life. A book with a catchy one word title, this one won me over, with its unique love vibe.
Sally Seltmann situates her first novel, Lovesome, in the year 1995. Seltmann’s lead is Joni Johnson, a young woman who has her whole life ahead of her. In the day Joni indulges in her passion for art and music. While in the evenings, Joni makes ends meet by working in a French themed bistro. Surrounded by interesting work colleagues and friends, Joni’s life is exciting and is just about to take off. When Joni’s best friend Annabelle, who has been forging a career as a professional singer in London arrives unexpectedly, Joni’s life takes a different direction. Joni’s life pales in comparison to Annabelle’s glittering adventures in London. But, the friendship between Annabelle and Joni is tested when a man comes between their relationships. Lovesome examines the fallout from this relationship dynamic.
I always love to discover a new raw Australian writing talent and to be introduced to the work of Sally Seltmann via her first book, Lovesome, has been a highlight for me. I first came across Lovesome, Sally Seltmann’s debut novel, while conducting a monthly round up of romance reviews on the Australian Women Writers Challenge. Another respected reviewer’s opinion of this book definitely swayed my interest towards this book. When a surprise copy arrived in the mail, I found myself quietly smiling to myself and looking forward to delving into this book.
My initial vibe of this book was it is a young adult or even new adult tale, as Lovesome is solely narrated by main protagonist Joni Johnson, a rather sheltered twenty one year old girl. Although I am older than Joni, I still managed to connect to her world and experiences by simply casting my mind back to my past. I enjoyed this experience and I quite liked the wide eyed innocence of Joni. Seltmann allows us to follow Joni’s character path through her insightful and comprehensive narrative voice. Joni’s tale is not only a love story but a coming of age tale, which I am confident will resonate with many readers.
Seltmann fleshes out the pages of Lovesome with an eclectic mix of secondary characters. Annabelle was very self absorbed, I couldn’t take to her very much at all! While I had a soft spot for Dave and Lucy who work at Harland, Joni’s place of employment. By far Harland was the highlight of this novel. I loved Seltmann’s descriptions of this quaint French restaurant. I just wanted to reserve a table at Harland and sit down with Lucy to discuss French fashion! There is also a great sense of nostalgia that emanates from the pages of Lovesome. The mid 1990’s setting won me over, I loved the memories this book evoked of a time I also grew up and learnt so much about the mechanics of family, love, relationships and my calling in life.
The romance and love story aspect of this book is interesting. It doesn’t develop fully until fairly late in the novel and I was almost wondering earlier on in my reading of Lovesome if I was going to see more thick action on the love front. Seltmann doesn’t disappoint and when the complicated love story arrives it is fleshy, complicated, emotional and great to unpack. This is a book that thrives on character dynamics and interactions, rather than action, which may or may not appeal to some readers. I enjoyed this aspect of the novel; it offered an introspective look at first experiences and illuminates what it is like to finally find your feet in both love and life.
Seltmann offers readers a conclusive end to her first novel. Her prose often carries you away in its simplicity and direct commentary on life in general. I appreciated Joni’s journey and the way in which Seltmann ended our time with Joni.
Lovesome is best described as really nice debut and an unassuming read that quietly surprised me. It is a love story that many can draw comparisons to, despite the young age of the narrator. A broad novel which is easy to embrace, I can recommend Lovesome if you appreciate a well crafted and slightly offbeat love story. I hope see and read more from Sally Seltmann in the near future.
Lovesome is book #57 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
*I wish to thank Allen & Unwin for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Lovesome, written by debut author Sally Seltmann, is an alternative but gentle love story that completely encapsulates the sense of longing felt by those experiencing first love. A strong character driven story, it centres on a sweet lead, twenty one year old art school graduate Joni and a cast of eclectic friends, colleagues and love interests who colour her life. A book with a catchy one word title, this one won me over, with its unique love vibe.
Sally Seltmann situates her first novel, Lovesome, in the year 1995. Seltmann’s lead is Joni Johnson, a young woman who has her whole life ahead of her. In the day Joni indulges in her passion for art and music. While in the evenings, Joni makes ends meet by working in a French themed bistro. Surrounded by interesting work colleagues and friends, Joni’s life is exciting and is just about to take off. When Joni’s best friend Annabelle, who has been forging a career as a professional singer in London arrives unexpectedly, Joni’s life takes a different direction. Joni’s life pales in comparison to Annabelle’s glittering adventures in London. But, the friendship between Annabelle and Joni is tested when a man comes between their relationships. Lovesome examines the fallout from this relationship dynamic.
I always love to discover a new raw Australian writing talent and to be introduced to the work of Sally Seltmann via her first book, Lovesome, has been a highlight for me. I first came across Lovesome, Sally Seltmann’s debut novel, while conducting a monthly round up of romance reviews on the Australian Women Writers Challenge. Another respected reviewer’s opinion of this book definitely swayed my interest towards this book. When a surprise copy arrived in the mail, I found myself quietly smiling to myself and looking forward to delving into this book.
My initial vibe of this book was it is a young adult or even new adult tale, as Lovesome is solely narrated by main protagonist Joni Johnson, a rather sheltered twenty one year old girl. Although I am older than Joni, I still managed to connect to her world and experiences by simply casting my mind back to my past. I enjoyed this experience and I quite liked the wide eyed innocence of Joni. Seltmann allows us to follow Joni’s character path through her insightful and comprehensive narrative voice. Joni’s tale is not only a love story but a coming of age tale, which I am confident will resonate with many readers.
Seltmann fleshes out the pages of Lovesome with an eclectic mix of secondary characters. Annabelle was very self absorbed, I couldn’t take to her very much at all! While I had a soft spot for Dave and Lucy who work at Harland, Joni’s place of employment. By far Harland was the highlight of this novel. I loved Seltmann’s descriptions of this quaint French restaurant. I just wanted to reserve a table at Harland and sit down with Lucy to discuss French fashion! There is also a great sense of nostalgia that emanates from the pages of Lovesome. The mid 1990’s setting won me over, I loved the memories this book evoked of a time I also grew up and learnt so much about the mechanics of family, love, relationships and my calling in life.
The romance and love story aspect of this book is interesting. It doesn’t develop fully until fairly late in the novel and I was almost wondering earlier on in my reading of Lovesome if I was going to see more thick action on the love front. Seltmann doesn’t disappoint and when the complicated love story arrives it is fleshy, complicated, emotional and great to unpack. This is a book that thrives on character dynamics and interactions, rather than action, which may or may not appeal to some readers. I enjoyed this aspect of the novel; it offered an introspective look at first experiences and illuminates what it is like to finally find your feet in both love and life.
Seltmann offers readers a conclusive end to her first novel. Her prose often carries you away in its simplicity and direct commentary on life in general. I appreciated Joni’s journey and the way in which Seltmann ended our time with Joni.
Lovesome is best described as really nice debut and an unassuming read that quietly surprised me. It is a love story that many can draw comparisons to, despite the young age of the narrator. A broad novel which is easy to embrace, I can recommend Lovesome if you appreciate a well crafted and slightly offbeat love story. I hope see and read more from Sally Seltmann in the near future.
Lovesome is book #57 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
*I wish to thank Allen & Unwin for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
May 25, 2018
I'm not really one for half-star ratings, but this was better than the 3s I've read this year but not quite up to a 4. So 3.5 stars I guess? I'm rounding it up, though, because I'm sure others won't be as picky as me!
This is an adorable story. At first I was a bit put off by Joni, and her arrogance and judgmental attitude, but I think the way her thoughts flit around was a very real way of portraying the character, even if that character was one I didn't like. Her opinions and perceptions are constantly changing, and I think that's something most readers should be able to relate to. It's likely some of the characters will be familiar, and it's nothing out of the box in terms of storyline, but it's written in quite a unique style so that made me appreciate it a lot more.
I love the French restaurant setting (Harland) and particularly the little community that is built there within this story. It sounds like a wonderful place to spend the evening, and I enjoyed the dynamic between the characters.
Annabelle was a bit of a surprise to me, because I was expecting her to be far more self-centred than she actually was. Again, her relationship with Joni seemed very realistic, even if some of the occurrences were a bit cliche.
My main criticisms:
-Joni. Did not like her at all. Half the time she's acting like a child, and the other half she's a judgmental asshole.
-The blurb was misleading. **THIS REVIEW IS FOR AN UNCORRECTED PROOF COPY** but I was under the impression there would be all this tension as Annabelle and Joni go after the same guy. That tension lasted like two pages. This is really just a cute piece of fluff about Joni's quest for love.
-The actual 'lovesome' angle. Joni is pathetically obsessed with finding a boyfriend. I wanted more out of this, but what I got was pretty watery. I don't think it's a bad thing to be obsessed with love, and wanting love, but I think it was too narrow a focus, and there really should have been more on the positives of a life with no significant other. There was the potential for depth, but it stayed fluffy.
-Some of the language was off. Joni acts like a child, and so her thoughts speak like one. Eg. I've never heard a fellow Australian refer to their sleepwear as 'jammies'. It's incredible how much this one word got under my skin.
-Too many insignificant details instead of story. I really don't need to know every single outfit, nor every single song. Would much rather a little more meat in the plot.
Overall it was a pleasant little diversion into someone else's love life, and a quick, easy read. There are some memorable characters, and the French isn't overdone which was a blessing. It's not a brilliant piece of literature, but it's enjoyable enough with a unique storytelling angle and worth a read for lovers of the chick-lit genre.
Many thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC copy
This is an adorable story. At first I was a bit put off by Joni, and her arrogance and judgmental attitude, but I think the way her thoughts flit around was a very real way of portraying the character, even if that character was one I didn't like. Her opinions and perceptions are constantly changing, and I think that's something most readers should be able to relate to. It's likely some of the characters will be familiar, and it's nothing out of the box in terms of storyline, but it's written in quite a unique style so that made me appreciate it a lot more.
I love the French restaurant setting (Harland) and particularly the little community that is built there within this story. It sounds like a wonderful place to spend the evening, and I enjoyed the dynamic between the characters.
Annabelle was a bit of a surprise to me, because I was expecting her to be far more self-centred than she actually was. Again, her relationship with Joni seemed very realistic, even if some of the occurrences were a bit cliche.
My main criticisms:
-Joni. Did not like her at all. Half the time she's acting like a child, and the other half she's a judgmental asshole.
-The blurb was misleading. **THIS REVIEW IS FOR AN UNCORRECTED PROOF COPY** but I was under the impression there would be all this tension as Annabelle and Joni go after the same guy. That tension lasted like two pages. This is really just a cute piece of fluff about Joni's quest for love.
-The actual 'lovesome' angle. Joni is pathetically obsessed with finding a boyfriend. I wanted more out of this, but what I got was pretty watery. I don't think it's a bad thing to be obsessed with love, and wanting love, but I think it was too narrow a focus, and there really should have been more on the positives of a life with no significant other. There was the potential for depth, but it stayed fluffy.
-Some of the language was off. Joni acts like a child, and so her thoughts speak like one. Eg. I've never heard a fellow Australian refer to their sleepwear as 'jammies'. It's incredible how much this one word got under my skin.
-Too many insignificant details instead of story. I really don't need to know every single outfit, nor every single song. Would much rather a little more meat in the plot.
Overall it was a pleasant little diversion into someone else's love life, and a quick, easy read. There are some memorable characters, and the French isn't overdone which was a blessing. It's not a brilliant piece of literature, but it's enjoyable enough with a unique storytelling angle and worth a read for lovers of the chick-lit genre.
Many thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC copy
April 9, 2018
I enjoyed this novel but I did find it a little simplistic for me. I’m not into YA novels and it verges on that cusp of Young Adult/New Adult.
Joni has recently finished Art School and she spends her time painting during the day and working in a small French restaurant in the evening. She feels her life is missing that special someone and she daydreams that it could be someone she works with, in fact, I felt she just wanted a boyfriend. I enjoyed Joni’s work colleagues and snippets of Joni’s musings of the restaurant’s patrons but it really didn’t go anywhere.
Then Joni’s best friend Annabelle returns from overseas in love and I must admit I did find her very self-centred and shallow but the teaser in the blurb about their friendship tended to be a fizzle for me and everything tied up very quickly.
It was a quick, easy read but not one that will stick with me.
Thank you to the Publisher for a copy to read.
Joni has recently finished Art School and she spends her time painting during the day and working in a small French restaurant in the evening. She feels her life is missing that special someone and she daydreams that it could be someone she works with, in fact, I felt she just wanted a boyfriend. I enjoyed Joni’s work colleagues and snippets of Joni’s musings of the restaurant’s patrons but it really didn’t go anywhere.
Then Joni’s best friend Annabelle returns from overseas in love and I must admit I did find her very self-centred and shallow but the teaser in the blurb about their friendship tended to be a fizzle for me and everything tied up very quickly.
It was a quick, easy read but not one that will stick with me.
Thank you to the Publisher for a copy to read.
June 10, 2018
Lovesome by Sally Seltmann is a quirky, lighthearted story set in Sydney during 1995. I really enjoyed this book. Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC.
June 5, 2018
Sadly underwhelming.
2.5/5
2.5/5
August 1, 2021
Spent the afternoon in 1995 Balmain East.
But seriously, this book isn’t marketed to the right audience. This really is YA Fiction (#LoveOzYA), with themes of female friendship, independence, sexual relationships and personal boundaries.
Think Judy Blume. 14 year old me would have adored this book. And, I’d love my own kids to read this.
But seriously, this book isn’t marketed to the right audience. This really is YA Fiction (#LoveOzYA), with themes of female friendship, independence, sexual relationships and personal boundaries.
Think Judy Blume. 14 year old me would have adored this book. And, I’d love my own kids to read this.
June 20, 2018
Super cute Aussie coming-of-age/ romance. It’s so innocent and good-hearted, it actually reminded me a lot of ‘Sweetbitter’ by Stephanie Danler, just without all the drugs and debauchery, it could almost be a YA book really, New Adult at the very least.
I loved all the 90s movie and music references, oh how great it would’ve been to see ‘Showgirls’ when it was originally released.
Thanks for the recommendation, Erin! :)
3.5 stars
I loved all the 90s movie and music references, oh how great it would’ve been to see ‘Showgirls’ when it was originally released.
Thanks for the recommendation, Erin! :)
3.5 stars
May 5, 2018
This book starts out fairly twee; I felt the book wrote the characters, rather than the characters writing the book - and given it being a character driven novel, this felt rather integral - and, while universal and interesting themes were presented, they felt they were going to never eventuate, develop or just go somewhere predictable.
In some ways, perhaps they did; but in the best possible way, I think.
This was a sweet book, to be perfectly fair. I think the second half was significantly better than the first, and maybe this cast had a case of 'gotta know them to like them' - they all felt very 'archetypal' as characters, and all their action/dialogue/body language/any decisions at all were based in their character, rather than their character within the scene, which I think makes for an authentic, human experience. Lucy, particularly, felt a very forced character to me - though I could conjure a very specific image of that type of woman in my mind.
Regardless, Seltmann captures some really inexplicable, difficult, messy and complicated feelings, emotions and themes with some real grace, and clearly some understanding and experience, and that cannot be said for everyone.
In some ways, perhaps they did; but in the best possible way, I think.
This was a sweet book, to be perfectly fair. I think the second half was significantly better than the first, and maybe this cast had a case of 'gotta know them to like them' - they all felt very 'archetypal' as characters, and all their action/dialogue/body language/any decisions at all were based in their character, rather than their character within the scene, which I think makes for an authentic, human experience. Lucy, particularly, felt a very forced character to me - though I could conjure a very specific image of that type of woman in my mind.
Regardless, Seltmann captures some really inexplicable, difficult, messy and complicated feelings, emotions and themes with some real grace, and clearly some understanding and experience, and that cannot be said for everyone.
September 28, 2018
Lovesome is a sweet book. I started to read it while I was in a post-Jesse-Cole-haze which in hindsight, was unfair and destined to skew anything that came in my path. Of course, I wasn't cognisant of this at the time, but I found myself holding everything to the highest standard of magic, reviews, reports, blogs, Aldi Catalogues, emails and lasagne boxes. So considering that context, Lovesome did not stand a chance. I almost gave myself a headache during the opening chapters as I dramatically embarked on a tantrum of disconjugating eye rolling, convincing myself that Sally Seltman had set up the story with somewhat stilted and pedestrian dialogue that was hard to believe.
But then I caught myself out, and wondered why I was placing so much pressure on a story that doesn't profess to be anything other than a story about love, friendship and youth.
So I started the story again as a fresh and enthusiastic reader allowing myself to read through the eyes of my younger self, the young woman who was energetic, sanguine, hopeful and less complicated. And suddenly, Lovesome because a different book for me and I really enjoyed every simple second of my time with the story.
Lovesome is exactly what it says it will be - Tender, funny and romantic.
But then I caught myself out, and wondered why I was placing so much pressure on a story that doesn't profess to be anything other than a story about love, friendship and youth.
So I started the story again as a fresh and enthusiastic reader allowing myself to read through the eyes of my younger self, the young woman who was energetic, sanguine, hopeful and less complicated. And suddenly, Lovesome because a different book for me and I really enjoyed every simple second of my time with the story.
Lovesome is exactly what it says it will be - Tender, funny and romantic.
April 12, 2018
"The only way to love is deeply and completely. So much so that one begins to experience a sense of madness. For all true lovers know that there is no love without madness."
An enjoyable, young read. Main character and narrator is 21 year old artist/waitress Joni. She spends her days working on her paintings and thinking about boys in her studio/apartment in Sydney, then she goes to her second home, Harland, a French restaurant full of colourful characters. Things are ticking along fine till her best friend and rising music star, Annabelle, returns from overseas. Drama follows!
I am still a bit confused as to what this book is- seems like YA fits best. It's got a chatty, almost diary entry style that might appeal to younger readers. There's romance, but I think it's ultimately about finding happiness.
*note* I received this ARC copy as part of a giveaway from
An enjoyable, young read. Main character and narrator is 21 year old artist/waitress Joni. She spends her days working on her paintings and thinking about boys in her studio/apartment in Sydney, then she goes to her second home, Harland, a French restaurant full of colourful characters. Things are ticking along fine till her best friend and rising music star, Annabelle, returns from overseas. Drama follows!
I am still a bit confused as to what this book is- seems like YA fits best. It's got a chatty, almost diary entry style that might appeal to younger readers. There's romance, but I think it's ultimately about finding happiness.
*note* I received this ARC copy as part of a giveaway from
January 8, 2024
Set in Balmain in Sydney, Joni is an early twenties art graduate, painting by day and working as a waitress in a bohemian French restaurant by night.
Finding her community within her eclectic work colleagues, she also has a surprise arrival of her rising star musician best friend, who lands on her couch for weeks.
Picked up because I love the singer/songwriter, and I expected dreamy things. I think this, as a debut, is Sally exploring her fiction voice, which gained strength as the story went on.
A cute little story about finding love, and your circle, whilst pursuing your dreams. A definite palate cleansing read for me, so refreshing!
Finding her community within her eclectic work colleagues, she also has a surprise arrival of her rising star musician best friend, who lands on her couch for weeks.
Picked up because I love the singer/songwriter, and I expected dreamy things. I think this, as a debut, is Sally exploring her fiction voice, which gained strength as the story went on.
A cute little story about finding love, and your circle, whilst pursuing your dreams. A definite palate cleansing read for me, so refreshing!
May 20, 2018
Lovesome stuck out for me when I was reading a catalogue of upcoming books. I love books of women starting adult life (first job, post university etc.) and there simply aren’t enough of them set in Australia. I also love books about best friends who ending doing more harm than good, so Lovesome was a must read for me. It didn’t disappoint – it’s a sweetly innocent story of Joni, who delights in simple pleasures in her life. When best friend Annabelle returns from overseas, trouble follows her.
Joni is a delight. A rather naïve delight, but that’s partly what makes her character so engaging for the reader. She’s finished art college and lives in a little bungalow where she is painting for her first group exhibition. By night, she works at local French restaurant Harland. Her colleagues are her friends and she’s truly happy where she is. She’s friends with the chef and waits patiently for a scrap of praise from owner Lucy. Joni is doing her best to grow up in her own way – even if she is called out by her friends for being a late bloomer. She’s a sweet, cute character who is enthusiastic without a trace of cynicism. Joni is who we wish we were now.
But then her best friend Annabelle announces she’s returning home from London. No, New York. Joni didn’t even know she was there. Annabelle isn’t your usual gorgeous best friend with a mean streak. She’s a successful singer-songwriter and well known in Australia and has been trying her luck overseas. She’s fallen in love with another singer, recorded a duet with him, but is now coming home. It’s instantly a bit fishy to the reader that everything was so great Annabelle just needed to come home, but not so to Joni. Annabelle moves in and Joni’s ordered life is in disarray. At this point, my interest in Lovesome really picked up. It’s clear that Annabelle is Bad News (whether she intends to be or not). Annabelle becomes integrated with Joni’s life and it’s not good. Bringing boys home, leaving the place in a mess and then going after the one man Joni is interested in…well, it’s the last straw. Seeing Joni’s backbone become rigid and stainless steel is one of the highlights. It’s a coming of age that brings a tear to the eye.
Sally Seltmann’s debut novel is beautifully lyrical. She also conveys the simple Joy of Joni’s life beautifully – it’s not naff or overly sweet, but fits the character. Annabelle is also a well-crafted frenemy – feisty, flawed and kind of horrible but still fascinating. (I’d love to read a story from Annabelle’s point of view. It would be fast and full of calamities as she moves from one extreme to the next). Harland is a character in itself, as the restaurant holds possibilities, history and a heart of its own. It’s a lovely story, almost innocent in some ways as it casts the reader back to the days of records and phone boxes.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy of this book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
Joni is a delight. A rather naïve delight, but that’s partly what makes her character so engaging for the reader. She’s finished art college and lives in a little bungalow where she is painting for her first group exhibition. By night, she works at local French restaurant Harland. Her colleagues are her friends and she’s truly happy where she is. She’s friends with the chef and waits patiently for a scrap of praise from owner Lucy. Joni is doing her best to grow up in her own way – even if she is called out by her friends for being a late bloomer. She’s a sweet, cute character who is enthusiastic without a trace of cynicism. Joni is who we wish we were now.
But then her best friend Annabelle announces she’s returning home from London. No, New York. Joni didn’t even know she was there. Annabelle isn’t your usual gorgeous best friend with a mean streak. She’s a successful singer-songwriter and well known in Australia and has been trying her luck overseas. She’s fallen in love with another singer, recorded a duet with him, but is now coming home. It’s instantly a bit fishy to the reader that everything was so great Annabelle just needed to come home, but not so to Joni. Annabelle moves in and Joni’s ordered life is in disarray. At this point, my interest in Lovesome really picked up. It’s clear that Annabelle is Bad News (whether she intends to be or not). Annabelle becomes integrated with Joni’s life and it’s not good. Bringing boys home, leaving the place in a mess and then going after the one man Joni is interested in…well, it’s the last straw. Seeing Joni’s backbone become rigid and stainless steel is one of the highlights. It’s a coming of age that brings a tear to the eye.
Sally Seltmann’s debut novel is beautifully lyrical. She also conveys the simple Joy of Joni’s life beautifully – it’s not naff or overly sweet, but fits the character. Annabelle is also a well-crafted frenemy – feisty, flawed and kind of horrible but still fascinating. (I’d love to read a story from Annabelle’s point of view. It would be fast and full of calamities as she moves from one extreme to the next). Harland is a character in itself, as the restaurant holds possibilities, history and a heart of its own. It’s a lovely story, almost innocent in some ways as it casts the reader back to the days of records and phone boxes.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy of this book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
June 27, 2018
DNF. Life is too short to read a book that doesn't interest you.
I hope to pass it onto someone who might enjoy it more.
I hope to pass it onto someone who might enjoy it more.
November 6, 2018
There is no doubt in my mind that Seltmann is a talented writer. I love her music and the way she lyrically tells a story. However, her debut novel was a bit.....flat. I didn't really feel anything for the characters and the way the introduced facts about themselves was a bit robotic. This novel felt more like an elaborate backstory to one of her songs rather than it's own standalone novel.
July 15, 2018
Predictable first love story. A fluffy feel good story, but I struggled with the main character I just felt she was too twee. Written I think for a younger audience.
September 30, 2020
A great story of friendship, love and finding charm to many things. A quick and easy read. I really enjoyed the way the author described the characters and setting with detail.
December 27, 2021
I'll start by saying that if you enjoy reading shallow romance you'll probably really like this. I do not.
An immature 21yo thinks that her life sucks because she is single. That's it. That's the plot.
I enjoy Seltmann's music, so had hopes for a well-written novel at the very least. In the prose the idea was there, the execution was not.
At least a third of the novel's length (approx 240 pages) would have been eliminated if Seltmann had chilled out on the unnecessary and overwrought description. They were consistently one adjective too many in a description that didn't even need to be there. The protagonist, Joni, couldn't just walk up stairs. She had to walk up 'wooden, rickety stairs'. Dave couldn't just enter a room. We had to know what he was wearing, how he did his hair and what he smelled like as he did it. Every second chapter we had to hear more about the decor of her workplace.
The problem with cutting out all that crap is that there wouldn't be a novel left because there was no plot (see description above). All we really had was the carry on of a desperate Joni, random people conveniently coupling up and any attempt at conflict or tension resolved in a few pages.
The character of Joni was pathetic, most of the actions of supporting characters added nothing, and some supporting characters themselves added nothing.
I actually do have faith that Seltmann can do better, but this was not a good debut. Based on what I've written it probably aligns with one star but, well, I've read worse.
An immature 21yo thinks that her life sucks because she is single. That's it. That's the plot.
I enjoy Seltmann's music, so had hopes for a well-written novel at the very least. In the prose the idea was there, the execution was not.
At least a third of the novel's length (approx 240 pages) would have been eliminated if Seltmann had chilled out on the unnecessary and overwrought description. They were consistently one adjective too many in a description that didn't even need to be there. The protagonist, Joni, couldn't just walk up stairs. She had to walk up 'wooden, rickety stairs'. Dave couldn't just enter a room. We had to know what he was wearing, how he did his hair and what he smelled like as he did it. Every second chapter we had to hear more about the decor of her workplace.
The problem with cutting out all that crap is that there wouldn't be a novel left because there was no plot (see description above). All we really had was the carry on of a desperate Joni, random people conveniently coupling up and any attempt at conflict or tension resolved in a few pages.
The character of Joni was pathetic, most of the actions of supporting characters added nothing, and some supporting characters themselves added nothing.
I actually do have faith that Seltmann can do better, but this was not a good debut. Based on what I've written it probably aligns with one star but, well, I've read worse.
June 7, 2023
This was any amazingly easy read that had me finishing the book in a day, and that happens rarely. It wasn’t a book that built up a huge suspense or had you on the edge of your seat with the action, but what it did do was give you a great story with charming characters. It centers around the everyday life of Joni who is a waitress in a French restaurant at night and an artist by day.
Joni’s life is not outstanding and for the most part is just ordinary, but Sally takes it and through her creative skill, makes an interesting tale that is well worth the read. You can see instantly that Joni has a simple existence but a very happy one and her character certainly grows in front of your eyes. Along comes James and now all of sudden Joni can’t even think straight.
Although there are no over the top or well-known locations, rather a studio flat and an eclectic styled French restaurant, you are never bored of the settings and I believe this is due to Sally’s ability to paint her picture through words without losing sight by going into more detail than needed. One thing that I’m definitely sure of, and that is that the Red Room looks amazing.
I really enjoyed this book and I would not hesitate to pick up another Sally Seltmann novel.
(My copy of Lovesome was supplied by Allen & Unwin via a giveaway)
#lovesome
#sallyseltmann
#easyreading
Joni’s life is not outstanding and for the most part is just ordinary, but Sally takes it and through her creative skill, makes an interesting tale that is well worth the read. You can see instantly that Joni has a simple existence but a very happy one and her character certainly grows in front of your eyes. Along comes James and now all of sudden Joni can’t even think straight.
Although there are no over the top or well-known locations, rather a studio flat and an eclectic styled French restaurant, you are never bored of the settings and I believe this is due to Sally’s ability to paint her picture through words without losing sight by going into more detail than needed. One thing that I’m definitely sure of, and that is that the Red Room looks amazing.
I really enjoyed this book and I would not hesitate to pick up another Sally Seltmann novel.
(My copy of Lovesome was supplied by Allen & Unwin via a giveaway)
#lovesome
#sallyseltmann
#easyreading
July 12, 2018
This was ARC copy I recieved from Allen and Unwin for me to read and review. Well hear is my review this a story of a young woman learning about life, love and friendships while working at Sydney restaurant Heartland. The friendship with her best friend is test when she falls for photographer James and has feelings she never had before for a man. Joni has just lost her virginity to a one night stand and is not sure how she feels after this or if she will find her soul mate. Joni works with Lucy the owner of the restaurant, Dave the chef, Michael an other chef, Juliet a waitress as Joni is as well while working on her art as she is an artist.
I read a book inbetween before picking it up and finishing it once i got more into it I found it good but the ending I felt needed more. All in all a great storyline would recommend it to any one.
I read a book inbetween before picking it up and finishing it once i got more into it I found it good but the ending I felt needed more. All in all a great storyline would recommend it to any one.
May 18, 2018
*I received an uncorrected proof copy from an Allen and Unwin giveaway, and for this I would like to thank them.*
This was an enjoyable novel. It was a very light read with a simple story about finding happiness, satisfaction in life, relationships and romance. The characters were distinct and interesting, the descriptions of the settings were detailed and vivid and the storyline was very gentle.
I particularly liked the way that the protagonist Joni's character develops throughout the story. At first she is very judgemental (which sometimes even borders on cruel) of others, however as the story progresses, she realises that everybody has their ways and flaws, even herself and those closest to her.
This was an enjoyable novel. It was a very light read with a simple story about finding happiness, satisfaction in life, relationships and romance. The characters were distinct and interesting, the descriptions of the settings were detailed and vivid and the storyline was very gentle.
I particularly liked the way that the protagonist Joni's character develops throughout the story. At first she is very judgemental (which sometimes even borders on cruel) of others, however as the story progresses, she realises that everybody has their ways and flaws, even herself and those closest to her.
April 28, 2018
A quick, lighthearted read - but a lovely one at that! 21 year old artist, Joni, is living in Sydney, painting by day and waitressing at night at a bespoke French restaurant. Surrounded by gorgeous women that seem to reel in every guy they set their eyes on, Joni is left wondering if her ever longed for first boyfriend will ever come along.
When her best friend, Annabelle, a rising star in the music industry arrives back home, Joni’s world is turned on its head when it seems like that dream boyfriend has also stepped onto the scene.
When her best friend, Annabelle, a rising star in the music industry arrives back home, Joni’s world is turned on its head when it seems like that dream boyfriend has also stepped onto the scene.
June 6, 2018
Lovesome was an interesting book about love and friendship. What I enjoyed most about Lovesome was the setting. The story is set in the 90s in Sydney and features the Harland restaurant as another character in the story. Harland sounds like such an amazing french restaurant with beautifully themed dining rooms. The atmosphere of a busy restaurant that Sally Seltmann creates makes for entertaining reading.
Joni was an interesting character, at times I found it difficult to read because she could be extremely judgmental. However, I loved reading about the passion she had as an artist and her friendship with Dave and Lucy. I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first. The romance was fun to read as Joni and James got to know each other. Annabelle was an interesting character who was dealing with her own jealousy issues and her friendship with Joni had its ups and downs.
Overall, Lovesome is the perfect book if you are looking for a cozy restaurant setting, entertaining characters, and a cute romance.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Joni was an interesting character, at times I found it difficult to read because she could be extremely judgmental. However, I loved reading about the passion she had as an artist and her friendship with Dave and Lucy. I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first. The romance was fun to read as Joni and James got to know each other. Annabelle was an interesting character who was dealing with her own jealousy issues and her friendship with Joni had its ups and downs.
Overall, Lovesome is the perfect book if you are looking for a cozy restaurant setting, entertaining characters, and a cute romance.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2018
I really wanted to read this because the set-up appealed to me: the romance of art and independence. The first half of the book I read in a flurry and I enjoyed, but the last few chapters stretched the credibility a bit too much for me (that everyone ended up with someone, that big plans were made with people just met). I liked the little things, the life at Harland, Josie painting in her bungalow. Maybe I've just reached a point where locking eyes across the room and soul mates don't make sense to me.
December 21, 2020
Pretty underwhelming. The protagonist was not portrayed well - for example her overly negative reactions to absolutely anything Juliet-related and then saying she really liked Juliet?! Baffling. Being jealous of best friend's love life while also dismissive of it??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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