An easy to read Christmas story which follows Annie, who is struggling to keep as job and find her niche. Her parents are so loving, offering money when they are clearly struggling themselves. She sees an opportunity to sell her mums stock of years of failed pyramid schemes.
She finds a pop up shop location but it’s out of her price bracket, Penn a tall, dark and handsome man swoops in to take the shop only to have the offer to share the location with him a few days later.
It seems her Christmas wish may just come true with hopes of saving her family home from being sold. She goes full force into setting up her side of the shop, full of hope only to see Penn opposite her brooding. As each day goes past they grow further apart, not quite full on enemies but they’re not the friends she’s hoped.
Annie gets a shock opening one of her mums many boxes of goodies, let just say she wouldn’t want to display the naughty battery operated stock, it turns out they are very expensive and highly sought after items which Annie ends up doing a roaring trade in, with many giggles along the way.
Penn is intrigued by her under the shelf items, unaware of the true nature of her increase in customers. Much to Annie’s surprise, Penn asks her a huge favour, to pretend to be his girlfriend at his parent’s party.
I won’t give any spoilers but it’s certainly not why she expected and their overnight stay in the cottage brings an unexpected turn in their relationship.
I loved the slow burn between them and the element of suspense at their shop.
I do wish it had been dual POV with Penn however.
Thank you NetGalley, Lily Joseph and Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.

This is a great festive rom-com. I enjoyed a few laugh out loud moments as well as the fun playful twists.

Bursting with chemistry and all the excellent elements of an "enemies to lovers" Christmassy romance you could wish for.
I liked the twists and how the characters developed through the book with some surprises along the way.
It is well written and fun

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book!

I enjoyed the premise of the book - who doesn't like an enemies-to-lovers?! But I really found the pacing to be off. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I felt that we had almost too much backstory from the FMC, and the MMC wasn't introduced early on enough. I also felt that the romantic tension wasn't built up enough for me...give me MORE! However, I did like the FMC, and how she carried herself throughout the novel.

The book felt too long. I found myself wanting to simply skim the book, which made me sad, because I hate feeling like that. However, I'm willing to revisit the book to try again. Maybe on a second read I'll feel differently!

I would recommend this for someone who needs an airport read.

4.5 Stars
1/5 Spicies (mostly fade to black)

*Special thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and Lily Joseph for providing me a copy of this ARC - this is my honest review*

Stuck Together was a pleasant surprise! Although still a bit early for the Christmas spirit (I am a big fan and observer of the Spooky Season), I had a really good time reading this. I laughed out loud, kicked my feet and sighed throughout - something I consider signs of my reading a good romance (or Christmas rom-com, in this case).

Stuck Together is about Annie, who after losing her job at a restaurant decides to open a pop-up shop in a Newcastle arcade ahead of the holidays. Her mum had accrued a lot of failed business venture stock and Annie figured what better way to earn some money to help her struggling parents (and herself). But the rent turns out to be out of her league - until she's offered a shop-share arrangement with broody musician, Penn.

Penn is a pain in her ass - but also makes her skin tingle. Her drives her crazy with both annoyance and desire. How is she supposed to run a successful pop-up shop without either strangling or shagging her fellow shopkeeper?

Whilst this wasn't a perfect story, it ran slightly too long, and Annie's hot and cold behaviour began to wear a little thin, I genuinely loved my experience reading this. I appreciated how Annie and Penn's relationship slowly developed in spite of their miscommunications, misunderstandings and general misalignments. I thought Penn's family dynamics were really interesting and I definitely didn't pick Sophia becoming a good friend to Annie. I did however guess who the mysterious saboteur was ahead of time - that felt signposted clearly enough for me to pick up early on.

Overall though, this was a solid Christmas rom-com with varied characters and a satisfying ending. I recommend.

I’ll admit, in my pathological craving for Christmas in October, I dove straight into this book the second I saw the cover. But this story is so much more than that — there’s mystery, new friendships, and two main characters who are both determined to get what they want in their own way. After yet another job she hated, Annie decides to take the leap and open a pop-up shop... only to share it with Penn, a broody guitarist with “impeccable” musical taste. And of course, no one can resist the tension!

Thrown together to share the rental for a pop-up shop, Stuck Together tells the story of Annie and Penn who cannot stand each other but have to work out a way of both along the shop as success.

Lots of assumptions and miscommunication between the pair occur but they eventually come together in the end and share a better understanding and appreciation of the other.

I feel it would have had greater impact to have dual POV to get Penn’s feelings as you are only seeing things from Annie’s mindset. I did enjoy the mystery aspect that popped up and it played out nicely even though some of the plot at times felt flat.

If you’re looking for a cute easy holiday read I would recommend it still.

LINKS TO BE POSTED

ENGLISH

Stuck Together, by Lily Joseph, is one of those Christmas romance novels that hooks you with its enemies to lovers or rather rivals to lovers trope. The plot revolves around two characters who, although seem completely opposite at the beginning, end up sharing a shop (one has a music shop and the other a miscellaneous shop that later transforms into something more interesting). What starts with prejudices and constant clashes, slowly turns into a deeper relationship when they both realise that they are not as different as they thought.

What stands out most in the book is the light and fun tone. From the very first chapter, the scenes between the main characters are entertaining, with many comical situations that keep a good pace. The dialogue is witty and reflects well the back-and-forth that is typical of this type of novels, but without being too heavy-handed. It also plays very well with the theme of prejudice and how it can blind people, something that is always present in the evolution of their relationship.

What is interesting is that it is not just a romantic comedy. It also touches on more serious issues, such as environmentalism, violence against animals, sexual abuse and, above all, the difference in social classes, which really affects the relationship of the main characters. However, it seems that the author wanted to cover too many topics, and some are not developed as much as they could have been. The issue of class difference, for example, seems to be the most relevant and directly affects the conflict between the protagonists, but it would have been great if more space had been devoted to it.

One detail that didn't quite work for me was the subplot of the sabotage in the shop. Although at first it seemed to be an intriguing part of the story, by the end the twists and turns were too far-fetched, and when it is finally revealed who was behind it all, it is rather absurd. Moreover, it was sort of obvious from the beginning, so the revelation doesn't have as much impact as it should.

Despite these ups and downs, the relationship between the protagonists is very well constructed. While much of the conflict revolves around misunderstandings and miscommunication, which is typical for some novels in the genre, here it is well handled and doesn't feel forced or overly frustrating. There does come a point where you feel like stepping in and sitting them down to talk as if it were a schoolyard fight. As I say, although it's a common occurrence in these types of stories, it would have been more interesting if, after some evolution in their relationship, the conflict stopped being based on miscommunication and was more about working together as a couple, which would have added another layer to the story.

All in all, Stuck Together is a light and entertaining read, perfect for those who enjoy a romantic Christmas comedy with a touch of some social issues. Although some parts could have been better explored and the sabotage subplot doesn't quite convince me, the humour and chemistry between the main characters make it a worthwhile read, especially if you like your contemporary romance with sparkle.


SPANISH

Stuck Together, de Lily Joseph, es una de esas novelas románticas navideñas que te engancha con su dinámica de enemies to lovers o más bien rivals to lovers. La trama gira en torno a dos personajes que, aunque parecen completamente opuestos al principio, terminan compartiendo un local (uno tiene una tienda de música y la otra una de cosas variadas que luego se transforma en algo más interesante). Lo que empieza con prejuicios y constantes choques, poco a poco se convierte en una relación más profunda cuando ambos se dan cuenta de que no son tan diferentes como pensaban.

Lo que más destaca en el libro es el tono ligero y divertido. Desde el primer capítulo, las escenas entre los protagonistas son entretenidas, con muchas situaciones cómicas que mantienen un buen ritmo. Los diálogos son ingeniosos y reflejan bien ese tira y afloja típico de este tipo de novelas, pero sin llegar a ser demasiado pesado. Además, juega muy bien con el tema de los prejuicios y cómo pueden cegar a las personas, algo que siempre está presente en la evolución de su relación.

Lo interesante es que no se queda solo en la comedia romántica. También toca temas más serios, como el ecologismo, la violencia contra los animales, el abuso sexual y, sobre todo, la diferencia de clases, que realmente afecta la relación de los protagonistas. Sin embargo, parece que la autora quiso abarcar demasiados temas, y algunos no se desarrollan tanto como podrían haberlo hecho. El tema de la diferencia de clases, por ejemplo, parece ser el más relevante y afecta de manera directa el conflicto entre los protagonistas, pero hubiera sido genial que le dedicara más espacio.

Un detalle que no funcionó del todo fue la subtrama del sabotaje en la tienda. Aunque al principio parecía que iba a ser una parte intrigante de la historia, al final los giros eran demasiado exagerados y, cuando por fin se descubre quién estaba detrás de todo, el desenlace resulta bastante absurdo. Además, se veía venir desde el principio, así que la revelación no tiene tanto impacto como debería.

A pesar de esos altibajos, la relación entre los protagonistas está muy bien construida. Si bien gran parte del conflicto gira en torno a malentendidos y falta de comunicación, algo típico en algunas novelas del género, aquí está bien llevado y no se siente forzado ni excesivamente frustrante. Eso sí, llega un punto en el que dan ganas de intervenir y sentarlos a hablar como si fuera una pelea de patio de colegio. Como digo, aunque es algo común en este tipo de historias, habría sido más interesante que, después de cierta evolución en su relación, el conflicto dejara de basarse en la falta de comunicación y fuera más sobre trabajar juntos como pareja, lo que habría añadido otra capa a la historia.

En resumen, Stuck Together es una lectura ligera y entretenida, perfecta para quienes disfrutan de una comedia romántica navideña con una pincelada sobre algunos temas sociales. Aunque algunos podrían haber sido mejor explorados y la subtrama del sabotaje no termina de convencerme, el humor y la química entre los protagonistas hacen que valga la pena leerla, sobre todo si te gusta el romance contemporáneo con chispa.

Funny. Sweet. Seasonal. What more could you even need from a Christmas story!

This was so much fun to read, I devoured it within 48 hours because I couldn’t put it down! I had several moments where I giggled to myself and then over explained to my long suffering partner, because I was just having so much fun I had to share what I was thinking!

I loved the characters, they were so much fun to get to know. I had moments where i giggled, some where i sighed in frustration, or outright wanted to kick someone. The writing style just sucks you in from the start and I found myself remaking my cup of tea several times because I had devoured a few chapters again and let it go cold. Note to self. When reading a book from this Author, use my keep mug!!

I didn’t want to put it down even when I reached the end. So I know that this is one I will be reading every year!

This book is 7.8 out of 10 and thoroughly enjoyable!

It was an easy and quick read full of very vibrant and loveable characters. From Annie's parents to the other proprietors at the arcade, I found myself imagining how lovely and fun life would be if I could have this cast of characters in my life.

I laughed out loud so much and was so inspired by Annie's entrepreneurial pursuits that I considered starting a pop-up shop! I think Annie and her mom Denise were so relatable when it was revealed their history of ever-changing interests. This plus the day-to-day and the special events they put on in the shop, I found this to really fulfil the cozy-Christmas vibe and I suddenly cannot wait for the Holiday Season.

The romance unfolded very nicely and was more slow burn but it seemed much more realistic than in other romance books that I've encountered so far. The mystery aspect of the book had such twists that I did not at all see coming! This book comes out October 29, 2024!

Thank you to NetGalley, Lily Joseph and Bookouture for the eARC of this book!

I really enjoyed Stuck Together - romance/hate, Christmas and great characters. A book perfect for a cosy autumn evening.

Opposites (in more ways than one), colleagues to lovers, fake engagement and.....Christmas! Annie and Penn come from two different worlds but she doesn't really know that when she sets up shop in his record store. They pick at one another (delightful dialogue) but then Penn needs her and she comes through. You'll smile especially when their families are in the frame. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A good read for a lazy day.

Thank you to NetGalley, Lily Joseph and Bookouture for allowing me to ARC read for ‘Stuck Together.’

I really enjoyed this, though I have to say, I didn’t really egg ‘enemies to lovers’ from Annie and Penn. They were more like friends that hen peck each other.
The story was fun and interesting, and I liked the contrast of ‘privileged family’ Vs. ‘every day, working class family.’

I will say that the first 40% of this dragged, not much was happening with little pay off. The pacing did pick up after this point, and it became more enjoyable.
I don’t feel like the third act breakup was necessary, because there were already a few other plot devices going on.

The characters were fun, and I loved that this was set in Newcastle.

Overall, this is a fun, festive read. I’d recommend giving this one a go!

Annie can’t hold down a job for long. When she loses her waitressing job, she wonders what life will have in store next.

She notices that her mum has loads of boxes of items she’s bought with the intention of selling; but hasn’t got around to it.

Annie spots an ad for a pop up shop, and decides this would be perfect for selling all her mum’s items. However, the rent is too steep - this is where we meet Penn who thinks that him and Annie can rent a side of the shop each, to save on costs and help each other.
All sounds great - but they realise they don’t really like each other and rub each other up the wrong way!

What ensues is a story that often had me laughing out loud.

Set in Northumberland and Newcastle, this story appealed to me as I live in Northumberland. There was plenty of descriptive writing about the beautiful scenery up here, and if you don’t know the area, you can picture it.

I liked Annie and Penn’s characters, they were both stubborn, and at times, immature.

A great Christmas tale, that is perfect for a cold winter’s evening, snuggled on the sofa.

My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

I thought the book's opening meet-cute between Annie and Penn would be fantastic, but I felt like there was something missing. Although it's a charming and humorous holiday romantic comedy, I didn't get the joyful rush I was hoping for. We didn't have Penn's perspective, which is probably why I don't feel like enemies to lovers. Thus, we were unable to empathize with his feelings for Annie. Later in the story, when the faking dating trope is introduced, the plot improves. Annie's family had my heart. Her parents were wonderful! I wish there had been a happier conclusion as well.

Stuck Together is such a lovely, festive read! Penn and Annie’s relationship is built so well from rivals to lovers. Their initial meet-cute is so sweet and really begins to show their chemistry.

The book does have the miscommunication trope, which I know isn’t always the most popular, but I think it fits the story and the creates great tension for the book.

I found the conversations around the main characters’ backgrounds and upbringings interesting - maybe slightly cliché but it fits the feel of the book. I felt that some of the characters were also cliché, but did help provide some comic relief when it was needed in the story.

I would recommend this as a read over the Christmas period, if you are after a lightly spiced festive read - perfect for in front of the Christmas Tree!

It took me a while to finish this book. I didn’t feel the chemistry or connection between Annie and Penn.

Annie is someone who has tried every job, she doesn’t know what she wants out of life. Her parents are Annie’s rock. They have always stood by her, but Annie found out they are behind in their mortgage and may lose their home. Deciding to help them, Annie decides to rent a pop up store with the stuff her mother has tried over the years.

When Annie goes to check out the location of store, someone else is fighting her for the spot, Penn. Annie leaves disheartened. However, she gets a call several days later that she can rent the space and share it with Penn. As much as she dislikes him, Annie needs todo this for her parents.

Penn and Annie have worked together now for a couple of weeks, and barely speak to each other. When he does, she is shocked of what he said. He needs her to pretend to be his girlfriend when he goes visit his parents. Annie couldn’t have been more shocked! He sweetened the deal with offering to give her a percentage of his sales. What she finds out, he is super wealthy. His parents home is the size of a hotel. Annie is left speechless.

The pop up store where they work, all of a sudden is attacked by malicious attacks.

I felt this book was all over the place. I really didn’t get the connection between Annie and Pen.

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC opportunity!

This was a cute story and had Hallmark movie vibes. I enjoyed the two main characters, their connection, and friendships with others. I was also surprised by Penn’s family. I was expecting them to the villains after that horrible trip to their home.

I didn’t see the Melissa reveal coming, which i appreciated. It gave another layer that kept the story interesting.

This felt well written and well rounded. A good story that would be an easy fun read for anyone!

When the book starts out with such a meet cute between Annie and Penn, I thought this was going to be great but something was lacking for me. It is a sweet and funny holiday rom com but I didn't feel the happy surge I was wanting. I don't even necessarily feel to much enemies to lovers and I think that was because we didn't have Penn's view. So we really couldn't feel what he felt towards Annie. The plot gets better a little later in the story when we have the faking dating trope enter. I loved Annie's family. Her mom and dad were great! I wish we could have felt more of a happy ending as well. I felt like something was just missing. All in all it was good and I would recommend this author and this story.

This is a delightful holiday rom-com, blending popular romantic tropes into a heartwarming story. It follows Annie, selling her mother’s failed MLM products, and Penn, a musician selling vintage records, as they share a pop-up shop space. The story explores fake dating, enemies to lovers, and grumpy x sunshine dynamics, with forced proximity playing a key role in their budding romance.

Though the novel starts with a memorable meet-cute, it loses momentum early on, only picking up after the fake dating plot kicks in around 40%. The festive holiday backdrop adds charm, complementing the cozy romantic atmosphere. A standout feature is the mystery of who’s sabotaging the pop-up shop, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.

While the pacing struggles initially, the chemistry between Annie and Penn, their witty banter, and gradual softening toward each other make up for it. In the end, “Stuck Together” delivers humor, mystery, and romance, making it a satisfying and enjoyable read.