Any interesting take on timelines and life choices entangled with the idea that everything works out how it is supposed to in time despite our choices leading us down different paths, Lovestruck by Laura Jane Williams was a rivetting (if long) tale about Becca Calloway’s all too familiar search for “the one” and the truth of how desperate we can be for love and happy endings. I found the concept for this story so intriguing and loved the way Williams navigated the dual storylines, especially the nods to each timeline from the other. I won’t say I saw the ending coming from the very beginning but I definitely suspected it! In spite of that, I did find the story satisfying and an easy read. Definitely pick this up for a fun rom-com with great side characters and witty banter!

Thank you to Net Galley, Laura Jane Williams, and Random House for the opportunity to read the arc for this book and give my honest review.

Another fantastic book from Laura Jane Williams. One of my favourite authors and she didn’t disappoint.

Two scenarios where Becca has different love interests.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters are likeable but not too perfect so you can believe in them. In both realities you can see why the MC would want to be with them so you weren't entirely sure of the outcome, although it was clear from very early on who should get the girl.

I absolutely loved this book and flew through it; at a couple of points I found myself a tiny bit confused by the way it's written (the same/similar scenarios written twice, in one chapter if she DID text him back and one if she DIDN'T) but I got used to it. This is a gorgeous romance about a woman who gets a text from her ex - and we don't know if she replied or not as we see the story continue from both angles. There are some lovely examples of amily, friends and lovers throughout this book and it was highly enjoyable!

3.5*

I own quite a few of Laura Jane William's books but I have only read a few of her fiction novels... I often like the idea of them when I'm in the mood for a meetcute romcom (which is her typical genre) but struggle a little with her writing style. It can feel too forced, like all the characters are constantly on 'cheeky but self important banter' setting, which means a lot of the interactions come across as unrealistic. I find myself rolling my eyes and wondering if people actually talk like this? Am I the only one?

In saying that, I fancied a light romance, can rely on LJW for well rounded characters, and was intrigued by the 'sliding doors' reference to the story. Becca is 35 and looking for The One to start a family with - she is a business owner and is lucky to work with her best friends. It's time. One evening after a manifestation event, Becca receives a timely text from The Ex who she has not spoken to in 5 years, and from this point on we follow 2 paths - one where she does text back... and one where she doesn't...

LJW doesn't always follow the predictable path of a romcom so I wasn't sure where this would go at first, but I soon saw the angle she was going for and guessed the ending quite quickly. There are multiple love interests, quirky friends (I was a big fan of Jia Li), and supportive parents. And as to be expected we experience lots of dates, mild spice levels, and some emotional drama. I'm not 100% sure on the title as its very vague and not really relevant but the one thing I can say is - as a person who has been with their person for 11 years - I found myself massively reminiscing about the very first stage of dating. All the flirting, the firsts, the dinner dates, the anticipation. And the romantic in me liked the phrase 'last first kiss' very much.

Did I like it? Mostly yes. Did it satisfy the #moodreader in me? Yes. Would I recommend it to someone looking for a light romantic page turner? Probably. Not a fan of the book cover though...

Thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Many thanks to Net Galley.

I adore Laura Jane Williams but this story and the characters just didn't click for me. I have much preferred her other novels. Hopefully, I like the next one!

Upon seeing this book, I was immediately struck by its premise: Becca receives a text from her ex one night and from there, her story diverges into two paths; (1) her friends convince her not to get back on with her ex and she does, and she meets someone new; and, (2) she replies to the text and tries it again with her ex.

It reminded me of the movie “Look Both Ways” where we see alternating timelines and I wondered how it will go as a book. It also made me so curious to find out how it will wrap up in the end when she’s basically seeing two people (albeit in different timelines).

At one point, I was rooting for the new guy then suddenly I would find the ex appealing and then I would prefer for her not to root for any. Safe to say, it was a wild ride, and by the time I reached the third act, the story was picking up for me and I got so invested with the twist of events.

It’s interesting to see how both timelines end in the same outcome, of her ending with up with one person, and I won’t reveal how because it will be a major spoiler. I’ll say that it’s been hinted from the very start and I saw it but I wasn’t sure. However, I greatly approve of the guy and I love how it ended with them being right for each other.

I rated it 4 stars because there was a part where the plot felt rushed and it was weird personally to see it happen after what just unfolded. Another is that I feel like the switching of timelines made me feel lost, especially near the end. I got so invested in what happened in this first timeline that when it switched and it happened differently in the second, it threw me off balance. Then the end came so quickly that I felt underwhelmed. I personally would like to see more action in all of these parts.

It was still a great read though and so if you feel intrigued by it, go for it. The guy she ends up with is so precious and he really knows how to love her purely, so there’s that.

Thank you Netgalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for sending me this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Rating: 4 ⭐️

This book is definitely for those who enjoy love triangles (or squares??), it follows the story of Becca and is told in the form of two timelines, that happen simultaneously, of how Becca’s life could have panned out based on one small difference. And in each timeline there is one main love interest for Becca.

I found this concept really interesting as I always think about the ‘what if’ moments in my own life, so it was really interesting to to read about in story form. Plus each timeline has little snippets that relate it to the other timeline (apart from the characters and basic plot points obviously). So for example, in one timeline she gets ice cream with one of the mmcs, then in the other timeline she has a sudden craving for ice cream from the same shop. Or even when her one love interest was reading a book written by the other love interest from the other timeline

I did like the ending, but with the guy she ended up with I felt that their romantic chemistry was only more evident later on in the book, as at the beginning I didn’t think there were gonna get together as they just seemed to be no romantic interest on either side - although looking at it now I get why it was written that way as it makes sense with the whole storyline and especially when we learn at the end how they secretly felt about each other at the beginning of the book.

Also I’m not the biggest fan of love triangles, but I think because of the separate timelines for me it made it work better as it wasn’t like the two guys were competing for her love - because they had no idea that there was another guy

So before I start I would like to say I'm gutted that I'm dnf-ing this one. I have loved and enjoyed all Laura's previous books and I went into this one dubious, just because I'm not the biggest fan of these types of storylines in contemporary romance books.

I gave it a shot but I just couldn't get into it and I struggled with the main character to the point I've just decided to give it a miss.

I definitely recommend picking up Laura's books because she's an amazing writer.

As a fan of the film Sliding Doors, I was looking forward to reading this book as two different scenarios were played out simultaneously, one where our heroine Becca texts back her ex boyfriend who has just made contact out of the blue and another where she doesn't. We get alternative story lines where on one hand she re-connects with her ex, Mike, and another where she meets and falls for a new love, Noah.

Although I had guessed the ending of the story, and I won't spoil it by revealing that here, this did not spoil my enjoyment of a cracking good book.

A book with two different paths. One where she goes back to her ex and one where she embarks on a new relationship. I liked the fact that the story isn't predictable. Becca overthinks everything so living out her future life down two different paths suits her. At times it is very funny.

this book was a joy to read! would love to read more from the author. happy release day to Lovestruck, wishing you all the love and success!

I loved this so much! An easy and fun read for summer days (or any day really)! I grew up in Birmingham and the book is set in Kings Heath, a suburb just a few miles from the city centre, so as the author writes about places in and around Birmingham I felt I was back there for a few days, it was warm and comforting.
The book is set in two parallel timelines, one where Becca replies to a text from her ex and the other where she blocks and deletes his number. Each takes its own path and we find out just what happens in separate dimensions.

I loved all of the characters, but Becca and Carlos were my favourites. The story was funny, warm, romantic and cosy and it made me feel warm inside from beginning to end.

If you want something fun and uplifting to read, then I recommend a copy of Lovestruck to take on your holidays with you.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for the opportunity to read and review Lovestruck by Laura Jane Williams.

Lovestruck follows Becca down two possible paths in her life, all determined by whether she decides to text her ex back or not. One path leads her back to her ex-boyfriend, Mike, whilst the other leads her to, a new love, Noah.

Whilst I enjoyed the premise of the book, I was disappointed with the execution. I felt there was a lot of promise but I finished it thinking it was just 'okay'. Unfortunately, I felt it dragged and didn't keep me hooked in the way I thought it would. In the end, I didn't care who the protagonist ended up with, which was a real shame. Overall, an average love story for me, not amazing but not terrible either!

I absolutely loved this book, it’s my second read by Laura Jane Williams this year and by far my favourite. The dual storyline concept was great, and I loved the areas where the two stories intercepted. I loved Becca’s character, and the relationship and banter she shared with her friends genuinely made me laugh out loud in places.

I thought I had guessed the storyline in parts but this one genuinely kept me on my toes until the end! Will definitely be reading more by this author in the future.

*Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

'Lovestruck' by Laura Jane Williams takes us on a captivating adventure, not with just one love story, but two. 💕📚

Becca, our protagonist, is in pursuit of her perfect match. After a manifestation ceremony, her ex suddenly reaches out to her, leaving her with a crucial choice: should she text him back and explore what could be, or should she block him and move forward? Williams skilfully guides us through both realities, allowing us to witness the unfolding of Becca's romantic journeys.
📱🚫

I was so intrigued by the premise of this ‘sliding doors’ style book. I was eager to unravel the destiny of our leading lady as she embarks on two parallel paths in her quest for love.

I must admit, at times I found it a tad challenging to keep track of which events belonged to which version of Becca's reality. However, this is not a complaint but as a testament to the author's skill in subtly guiding us back on track. And let me just say, there are scenes in this book that managed to stir butterflies in my stomach, which is quite an accomplishment for someone who has read her fair share of romance novels. One particular moment - a charged encounter in the rain, electrifying chemistry… ☔️⚡️🦋

Having experienced Laura Jane Williams' work for the first time through 'Lovestruck,' I am now looking forward to diving into her previous works. I have no doubt that I will love her back catalogue 🌟📚

‘Lovestruck' is an interesting exploration of love's complexities, and one’s destiny in life and love 💖✨ - I would recommend.

Laura Jane Williams has quickly become an auto-buy author for me, so I was delighted to be approved this new release on @netgalley!

Our FMC is Becca, a successful business woman with a great support group of family and friends and she’s ready to meet THE ONE. After holding a Manifestation Session she is hoping to manifest Mr Right and who should text on the very same night but her ex Mike.

Becca has a choice to make, does she text back or not?! Through Lovestruck we get to follow both decisions and witness the love stories unfold.

This was a very fun and different read for me. Though I have to say I was sometimes left confused between the changing scenarios as well as the third person. But honestly I just put that down to not reading many books in this format. That’s a me problem!

All of that being said, there were some moments in here that were just 👌 @rarelyreadingclassics were constantly messaging back and forward quoting parts of the book to each other and sharing our favourite moments. Give me moments in the rain and I’m hooked!

Already patiently awaiting the next release from Laura!

*I was kindly gifted this e-arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Lovestruck is a modern take on Sliding Doors - showing you the two paths that Becca could take in her pursuit of love. When her ex Mike texts her, Becca has to decide what to do - ignore the text and move on from her old flame, or reply and reignite their relationship.

Lovestruck follows Becca down both paths; just make sure you check the chapter headings to know where you are!

Lovestruck is a classic chicklit romcom, perfect for cheering up all weathers on the beach, in the garden or curled up in your favourite chair.

In life we're always faced with choices to make
But sometimes it is a difficult decision to take.
In this book two options are followed to show
The future based on which way to go.

Becca and her ex split years ago
He went to New York but Becca said, "No."
He's sent her a text, should she respond or not
What happens either way is the rest of the plot!

The three friends, Becca, Jia Li and Carlos are who
Are central to the stories all the way through.
Together they bring humour and laughter,
As Becca searches for her happily ever after.

If you're looking for a light-hearted read
This could be the next book you need!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.

After wishing for her Mr Right to appear, Becca receives a text from her ex. What happens next is a sliding doors moment. One story is that she answers the text, and the other story is that she doesn't. Both stories told in parallel and will leave you wondering right up until the final chapters who is the right Mr Right.