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Someone Like You
You can't program love…or can you?
Kayleigh Renshaw has come up with the idea for a brilliant "compatibility app," a new kind of matchmaking software. All she needs is a programmer to help her bring the idea to market…and she knows exactly who she wants. But Niall Walsh—a code whiz and her former best friend—has been avoiding her since he returned from Afghanistan. In spite of their history, and some sparks that go beyond friendship, he's proving reluctant…. Is it her, or is something darker holding him back?
*Wholesome Romance, New York City , Internet Dating , Clean Romance , War Veteran , Wounded Hero
Kayleigh Renshaw has come up with the idea for a brilliant "compatibility app," a new kind of matchmaking software. All she needs is a programmer to help her bring the idea to market…and she knows exactly who she wants. But Niall Walsh—a code whiz and her former best friend—has been avoiding her since he returned from Afghanistan. In spite of their history, and some sparks that go beyond friendship, he's proving reluctant…. Is it her, or is something darker holding him back?
*Wholesome Romance, New York City , Internet Dating , Clean Romance , War Veteran , Wounded Hero
274 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 31, 2014
I love a good story about how two friends fall in love. My husband and I were friends first and I think it's such a great way to build a strong relationship.
Kayleigh hasn't had it easy lately--her boss and ex-fiance basically drove her away from her job--one that she's good at. She's steered in the direction of an old friend, Niall, who is a pro at computer coding. While talking with him, trying to figure out where she can possibly find another job, she comes up with a great idea for a new app. Niall has reasons for holding himself back--he fought in Afghanistan and endured some terrible things, things that he can't talk about, due to classification.
I can only imagine how hard it would be to be a war vet. Karen Rock wrote this story in a way that makes it a little easier to understand what some of these men and women must go through. I loved watching Niall battle with himself internally, struggling to find himself, while coming to terms with who he is now. War can really change a person. I read this on September 11th and it was the perfect time to read it, thinking about all that has happened in the world since that day. I really liked Niall, even with his gruff and tough exterior.
Kayleigh is a sweet and determined woman. She is so kind--I loved the relationship she has with her grandpa and all those in the assisted living center. They were all so much fun and such great characters! They were very supportive to her and Niall and had me laughing.
This author has a fabulous way of weaving a story that is fun, entertaining, and romantic, yet also sweet and tugs at the heartstrings. I've loved everything I've read of hers and will continue to watch for her works in the future!
Content: very mild language (like one or two words); some talk of war stories and death, but nothing graphic; sweet kissing. Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Kayleigh hasn't had it easy lately--her boss and ex-fiance basically drove her away from her job--one that she's good at. She's steered in the direction of an old friend, Niall, who is a pro at computer coding. While talking with him, trying to figure out where she can possibly find another job, she comes up with a great idea for a new app. Niall has reasons for holding himself back--he fought in Afghanistan and endured some terrible things, things that he can't talk about, due to classification.
I can only imagine how hard it would be to be a war vet. Karen Rock wrote this story in a way that makes it a little easier to understand what some of these men and women must go through. I loved watching Niall battle with himself internally, struggling to find himself, while coming to terms with who he is now. War can really change a person. I read this on September 11th and it was the perfect time to read it, thinking about all that has happened in the world since that day. I really liked Niall, even with his gruff and tough exterior.
Kayleigh is a sweet and determined woman. She is so kind--I loved the relationship she has with her grandpa and all those in the assisted living center. They were all so much fun and such great characters! They were very supportive to her and Niall and had me laughing.
This author has a fabulous way of weaving a story that is fun, entertaining, and romantic, yet also sweet and tugs at the heartstrings. I've loved everything I've read of hers and will continue to watch for her works in the future!
Content: very mild language (like one or two words); some talk of war stories and death, but nothing graphic; sweet kissing. Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
October 14, 2014
So cute!! I loved this sweet clean romance by Karen Rock.
Kayleigh and Niall have been longtime friends but it's been a long time since they've seen each other. After returning from Afghanistan injured Niall has become a recluse and refuses to see anyone including Kayleigh. Kayleigh's trying to make it on her own after losing her fiance and since he was her boss she's also lost her job. When she comes up with a new idea for a "compatibility" software app she needs all the help she can get and Niall is the perfect match for what she needs.
I loved side stories that were woven into this story. The character's from the assisted living facility added the needed touch of humor. I enjoyed Niall and Kayleigh helping Josh learn to deal with his hurt and anger which in turn helped Niall overcome what he was struggling with.
Another friends to lovers story this was a hit with me.
Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it!
Content: Clean
Source: Netgalley
Kayleigh and Niall have been longtime friends but it's been a long time since they've seen each other. After returning from Afghanistan injured Niall has become a recluse and refuses to see anyone including Kayleigh. Kayleigh's trying to make it on her own after losing her fiance and since he was her boss she's also lost her job. When she comes up with a new idea for a "compatibility" software app she needs all the help she can get and Niall is the perfect match for what she needs.
I loved side stories that were woven into this story. The character's from the assisted living facility added the needed touch of humor. I enjoyed Niall and Kayleigh helping Josh learn to deal with his hurt and anger which in turn helped Niall overcome what he was struggling with.
Another friends to lovers story this was a hit with me.
Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it!
Content: Clean
Source: Netgalley
July 25, 2014
Everyone knows you can't program love. It's meant to happen naturally , and no voodoo spell, or drink this magical potion is going to land you into the arms of the one and only.
But just maybe a new app can, well that's what Kayleigh Renshaw thinks, when she comes up with the idea of a brilliant
"compatibility app" , but the app's not for her to find love, it's only meant for others of the lonely life world to discover their true love, she'll keep playing it safe it 's the right thing to do.
The app is the wave of the future and the best kind of matchmaking software money can buy. All she needs to make it work is a programmer to help her bring the idea to the market.
And she knows the perfect rope me in am yours for the taking to work the magic needed. But there's a catch, because Mr work my magic Naill Walsh is not only Kayleigh's former best friend but also the one that has been avoiding her since his return from Afghanistan.
She can't quite seem to figure out if it's just her or if something far darker is holding him back. Can she gain access to his mind and discover what lies hidden behind his lazy all is well smile, or will she end up running away from her best friend when the truth is revealed?
I have been a huge fan of Karen Rock's truly inspirational reads since her first book. This author manages time and time again to take a everyday situation and turn it into such a vivid and realistic story that it is as if the characters are not simply a name on the page, but right there in front of you going through the worst time of their lives or finding their very own happy ever after. And this time was no different ! During this read I found myself thinking this is not a book, these are not just characters, this is not just a story, this is real life!
In this read I felt each and every single drop of emotion as if I was the one living it. The fear and anger Naill goes through at the loss of friend, the rage he feels at not knowing if what he is doing is the right thing or if he is simply mucking up again.
The heartache and feeling of being completely torn between honor towards her family and the man she has come to love that poor Kayleigh has to face. I more than once pulled out the tissues and bawled like a baby!
The character of Naill was such a heartbreaking one that I simply wanted to grab hold of this man and just hold him. I felt so sad for him and what the demons he had to face, and it reminded me of all the warriors of war out there, that sadly I see each day. They come home with nightmares, flashbacks and truly go through hell trying to try and re-learn life without thinking of what happened out on the battlefield. Some never even find the courage to crawl out from the hell they hide behind and simply fade away from the world. But then there are those like Naill who find a purpose to live again and this author reminded me that there is always hope and a way out. The scars never go away but with someone by your side they do get better and just a little easier to handle.
The character of Kayleigh was so sweet and so kind and just wants to make the world smile. I adored her so much and I saw myself in her all the way. It is a far nicer feeling to make people smile then sad. So yes I totally adored Kayleigh! She was so strong and courageous it made me so proud and I truly wished she could be real because I know for darn sure we would be best friends. Her not wanting to forget her family and the honor anyone would have for one's family made me sad, not because I don't believe in honor, for I definitely do, but because it made it so much harder for her to try and accept what happened to Naill. It is never easy to chose between being angry because of loss and learning to accept what happened and to instead fill your heart with love and not regret and hate. Through this character the author showed me that if we do go with the " I cannot accept what you caused " option then we will be pretty much as good as the walking dead. You will be left behind from the world and find yourself alone and in a pretty dark place, incapable of loving others.
I am taking away so many powerful messages from this read but the one that comes to light the most throughout the read is that we should never hide. Not from the world, not from those we love, and never from those we have lost. The world does not count because they are not ones that determine out happiness we are. The ones we love are the ones that will always be there for us no matter what, so don't push them away. And those ones we have lost, will never truly be gone, the memories of the times you sent together will always be there, and those can never be taken away, so don't let the ghosts of the past hold you back, smile and wave at them each day and thank them for looking down on you and giving you a chance to live.
I highly recommend this read for all fans of romance reads. The book is such an inspirational read you will find yourself having a new zest for life, no matter what the circumstances you are facing might be. You will want to push harder and harder to find a way out of what ever you might be needing to face. A truly remarkable, magical, blow me away, bawl my eyes out, make my heart soar, have anyone and everyone believe in romance read!
5/5 star review
" Together they rescue each other"
But just maybe a new app can, well that's what Kayleigh Renshaw thinks, when she comes up with the idea of a brilliant
"compatibility app" , but the app's not for her to find love, it's only meant for others of the lonely life world to discover their true love, she'll keep playing it safe it 's the right thing to do.
The app is the wave of the future and the best kind of matchmaking software money can buy. All she needs to make it work is a programmer to help her bring the idea to the market.
And she knows the perfect rope me in am yours for the taking to work the magic needed. But there's a catch, because Mr work my magic Naill Walsh is not only Kayleigh's former best friend but also the one that has been avoiding her since his return from Afghanistan.
She can't quite seem to figure out if it's just her or if something far darker is holding him back. Can she gain access to his mind and discover what lies hidden behind his lazy all is well smile, or will she end up running away from her best friend when the truth is revealed?
I have been a huge fan of Karen Rock's truly inspirational reads since her first book. This author manages time and time again to take a everyday situation and turn it into such a vivid and realistic story that it is as if the characters are not simply a name on the page, but right there in front of you going through the worst time of their lives or finding their very own happy ever after. And this time was no different ! During this read I found myself thinking this is not a book, these are not just characters, this is not just a story, this is real life!
In this read I felt each and every single drop of emotion as if I was the one living it. The fear and anger Naill goes through at the loss of friend, the rage he feels at not knowing if what he is doing is the right thing or if he is simply mucking up again.
The heartache and feeling of being completely torn between honor towards her family and the man she has come to love that poor Kayleigh has to face. I more than once pulled out the tissues and bawled like a baby!
The character of Naill was such a heartbreaking one that I simply wanted to grab hold of this man and just hold him. I felt so sad for him and what the demons he had to face, and it reminded me of all the warriors of war out there, that sadly I see each day. They come home with nightmares, flashbacks and truly go through hell trying to try and re-learn life without thinking of what happened out on the battlefield. Some never even find the courage to crawl out from the hell they hide behind and simply fade away from the world. But then there are those like Naill who find a purpose to live again and this author reminded me that there is always hope and a way out. The scars never go away but with someone by your side they do get better and just a little easier to handle.
The character of Kayleigh was so sweet and so kind and just wants to make the world smile. I adored her so much and I saw myself in her all the way. It is a far nicer feeling to make people smile then sad. So yes I totally adored Kayleigh! She was so strong and courageous it made me so proud and I truly wished she could be real because I know for darn sure we would be best friends. Her not wanting to forget her family and the honor anyone would have for one's family made me sad, not because I don't believe in honor, for I definitely do, but because it made it so much harder for her to try and accept what happened to Naill. It is never easy to chose between being angry because of loss and learning to accept what happened and to instead fill your heart with love and not regret and hate. Through this character the author showed me that if we do go with the " I cannot accept what you caused " option then we will be pretty much as good as the walking dead. You will be left behind from the world and find yourself alone and in a pretty dark place, incapable of loving others.
I am taking away so many powerful messages from this read but the one that comes to light the most throughout the read is that we should never hide. Not from the world, not from those we love, and never from those we have lost. The world does not count because they are not ones that determine out happiness we are. The ones we love are the ones that will always be there for us no matter what, so don't push them away. And those ones we have lost, will never truly be gone, the memories of the times you sent together will always be there, and those can never be taken away, so don't let the ghosts of the past hold you back, smile and wave at them each day and thank them for looking down on you and giving you a chance to live.
I highly recommend this read for all fans of romance reads. The book is such an inspirational read you will find yourself having a new zest for life, no matter what the circumstances you are facing might be. You will want to push harder and harder to find a way out of what ever you might be needing to face. A truly remarkable, magical, blow me away, bawl my eyes out, make my heart soar, have anyone and everyone believe in romance read!
5/5 star review
" Together they rescue each other"
August 30, 2019
Tiada yg lebih berat bagi Kayleigh utk resign krn bosnya sekaligus mantan tunangannya selingkuh. Kayleigh juga membawa program application yg dibuatnya sendiri utk dipasarkannya sendiri. Utk itu Kayleigh butuh bantuan org lain yg tepat yaitu Niall, sahabat masa kecilnya dan juga teman baik almarhum kakaknya.
Niall menyimpan rahasianya sendiri. Niall sangat bersalah krn dirinya justru masih hidup, sedangkan penyelamatnya, Chris - kakak Kayleigh justru mati krn melindunginya. Kayleigh dan keluarga almarhum Chris tidak mengetahui hal ini. Kayleigh merasa bertanggungjawab utk memenuhi kebutuhan keluarga Chris ini apalagi anak sulung Chris, Josh, punya masalah dlm pengendalian emosi. Sejak Niall mengetahui hal ini, tekad Niall makin bulat utk membantu Kayleigh sepenuh hati.
Ini novel pertama yg saya baca dari author dan B-O-S-E-N-I-N adalah nama tengahnya. Mungkin saya over ekspektasi mengingat Niall adalah hero yg cacat dan menggunakan kaki prostetik (mengingatkan saya pada Cormoran Strike) dan sudah bersahabat sejak kecil dgn Kayleigh. Tapi apa lacur, ceritanya berputar-putar ttg pembuatan, pemasaran, pematenan ttg program application ttg mencari jodoh. Ditambah lagi ttg "mengajari" Josh menangani temperamentalnya. Juga seputar panti jompo kakek Kayleigh. Romansa Kayleigh dan Niall sangat terasa hambar jadinya, malah terkesan platonik.
Ternyata Harlequin Heartwarming ini sejenis Love-Inspired Harlequin, termasuk clean romance bagi saya. Jadi jangan berharap ada adegan syuuurr di novel ini. Cuma sebuah ciuman saja sudah bikin Kayleigh bergetar merasa bersalah spt anak SMP yg kegep krn berciuman. Capek deh!!!
Niall menyimpan rahasianya sendiri. Niall sangat bersalah krn dirinya justru masih hidup, sedangkan penyelamatnya, Chris - kakak Kayleigh justru mati krn melindunginya. Kayleigh dan keluarga almarhum Chris tidak mengetahui hal ini. Kayleigh merasa bertanggungjawab utk memenuhi kebutuhan keluarga Chris ini apalagi anak sulung Chris, Josh, punya masalah dlm pengendalian emosi. Sejak Niall mengetahui hal ini, tekad Niall makin bulat utk membantu Kayleigh sepenuh hati.
Ini novel pertama yg saya baca dari author dan B-O-S-E-N-I-N adalah nama tengahnya. Mungkin saya over ekspektasi mengingat Niall adalah hero yg cacat dan menggunakan kaki prostetik (mengingatkan saya pada Cormoran Strike) dan sudah bersahabat sejak kecil dgn Kayleigh. Tapi apa lacur, ceritanya berputar-putar ttg pembuatan, pemasaran, pematenan ttg program application ttg mencari jodoh. Ditambah lagi ttg "mengajari" Josh menangani temperamentalnya. Juga seputar panti jompo kakek Kayleigh. Romansa Kayleigh dan Niall sangat terasa hambar jadinya, malah terkesan platonik.
Ternyata Harlequin Heartwarming ini sejenis Love-Inspired Harlequin, termasuk clean romance bagi saya. Jadi jangan berharap ada adegan syuuurr di novel ini. Cuma sebuah ciuman saja sudah bikin Kayleigh bergetar merasa bersalah spt anak SMP yg kegep krn berciuman. Capek deh!!!
September 6, 2014
This book got me from the opening line … it is addictive, highly entertaining and swoon worthy all at the same time. Karen Rock delivers a brilliantly touching novel that will leave you wanting more and breathless all at the same time. Rock has a way with words that will leave her readers enchanted with her story and falling in love with the characters over and over again. Rock delivers a storyline that is sweet, romantic, funny and heart warming all at the same …
We all have that friend back in the day that the friendship was always on the border of being more than friends or just friends and I think this is where Rock touches her readers the most. The friendship between the two is such a foundation for such a great storyline and the characters are both so likeable it is hard not to root for them. Rock does a wonderful job in creating a story that will leave you wanting more and turning the pages at all hours of the night to find out what is going to happen next.
I loved the fact that Kayleigh Renshaw didn’t let her cheating ex-boyfriend hold her back … after all he did tell her she would be back. I loved how she stood up to him and stood her grounds. Her fiery personality didn’t let him keep a grasp on her and allowed her to do what she felt was right. I love strong female characters who don’t put up with the BS that some characters in other books do and leave me screaming at the them … Kayleigh was the opposite!
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants a good read and a heartwarming tale that will leave you yearning for the friendship that could of, would of, might of been ….
We all have that friend back in the day that the friendship was always on the border of being more than friends or just friends and I think this is where Rock touches her readers the most. The friendship between the two is such a foundation for such a great storyline and the characters are both so likeable it is hard not to root for them. Rock does a wonderful job in creating a story that will leave you wanting more and turning the pages at all hours of the night to find out what is going to happen next.
I loved the fact that Kayleigh Renshaw didn’t let her cheating ex-boyfriend hold her back … after all he did tell her she would be back. I loved how she stood up to him and stood her grounds. Her fiery personality didn’t let him keep a grasp on her and allowed her to do what she felt was right. I love strong female characters who don’t put up with the BS that some characters in other books do and leave me screaming at the them … Kayleigh was the opposite!
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants a good read and a heartwarming tale that will leave you yearning for the friendship that could of, would of, might of been ….
October 2, 2014
3.5 rounding up
I'm back with another book from Harlequin's Heartwarming line and you know what that means, right? Sweet and clean romance, coming right up!
Karen Rock knows how to write sweet romances. I'm glad to see her joined up with Harlequin. It's a perfect fit.
I like books where friends turn into something more. Kayleigh and Niall have been friends for a very long time but after a tour in Afghanistan with some very dark memories haunting him, Niall has chosen to keep his distance and hide away from the world. Kayleigh doesn't understand his distance and tries to find a way back into his life. Niall is keeping secrets but as per usual, secrets have a way of coming out.
Kayleigh and Niall seem to be polar opposites. Where Niall is reclusive and on edge, Kayleigh is determined and full of energy and hope. She pushes forward, mostly unwaveringly. Kayleigh's relationship with her grandpa was super sweet.
It is that strong base of friendship that keeps Niall and Kayleigh coming back, trying to work things out. Niall is a bit of a bonehead but he eventually figures things out. Thank goodness! One of my favorite thoughts from the book is that the best gift we can give to those who have gone before us and to those who have given their lives in defense of our freedom is to live our lives fully and gratefully.
This is an easy reading, sweet contemporary romance. There was no sexual content or swearing. It was simply a good escape.
I'm back with another book from Harlequin's Heartwarming line and you know what that means, right? Sweet and clean romance, coming right up!
Karen Rock knows how to write sweet romances. I'm glad to see her joined up with Harlequin. It's a perfect fit.
I like books where friends turn into something more. Kayleigh and Niall have been friends for a very long time but after a tour in Afghanistan with some very dark memories haunting him, Niall has chosen to keep his distance and hide away from the world. Kayleigh doesn't understand his distance and tries to find a way back into his life. Niall is keeping secrets but as per usual, secrets have a way of coming out.
Kayleigh and Niall seem to be polar opposites. Where Niall is reclusive and on edge, Kayleigh is determined and full of energy and hope. She pushes forward, mostly unwaveringly. Kayleigh's relationship with her grandpa was super sweet.
It is that strong base of friendship that keeps Niall and Kayleigh coming back, trying to work things out. Niall is a bit of a bonehead but he eventually figures things out. Thank goodness! One of my favorite thoughts from the book is that the best gift we can give to those who have gone before us and to those who have given their lives in defense of our freedom is to live our lives fully and gratefully.
This is an easy reading, sweet contemporary romance. There was no sexual content or swearing. It was simply a good escape.
August 28, 2014
Karen Rock is becoming a favorite author of mine. I love her Heartwarming stories. I was very drawn to both of the the main characters in this story. I know something of how war can haunt those than have been there. My dad served in Vietnam. His memories will always scar him. Because of this I could understand Niall's character. It was inspiring to watch him overcome some of this darkness and move on with his life. I enjoyed Kayleigh's spunk and courage to do hard things. She was breaking out of her comfort zone. We all have to do that sometimes. I could really relate to these characters as they struggled to open up and trust one another. I really felt like a part of their lives. Karen wrote another beautiful story.
August 30, 2014
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
As soon as I hear of this book I knew I wanted to read it, not only is it written by Karen Rock, but the plot also sounded really interesting. Main character Kay is developing a compatibility app and I liked how the technology was incorporated into the story, at it's core it's still a romance story, but the app gave it a nice flavour.
From the first page I knew I was going to enjoy this book. I really like Karen's writing style and I liked Kayleigh from the moment she stood up to her old boss and decided to make her own choices. She's such a strong character, finally taking a chance and fighting for herself, I could easily relate to Kayleigh as I've been in sort of the same position before and also started my own company and I know the doubts that go along with it. I also liked Niall, there was one thing he kept a secret from Kayleigh almost the whole book and I just knew it was going to be an issue. I wish he would've told her earlier, but then there would've been less drama towards the end.
The romance was done well and believable. Kay and Niall where childhood friends and after some years apart they meet again. I have a soft spot for friend-to-lovers stories and I thought the trope was handled well in this book. Their romance was sweet, heartfelt and believable.
I also liked the side character, Karen really knows how to make you feel for the side characters and animals in her books as well. I loved the two cats that played a role into the story. My favourite side character was Josh, the misunderstood angry child of Beth and Chris. It was amazing to see him change and grow throughout this book and the scenes with Niall and Josh where really sweet and well written.
To conclude: I really enjoyed this book, the story was interesting and the pace matched the story. The main and side characters where well developed and I could easily relate to Kay. The romance was sweet and believable.
As soon as I hear of this book I knew I wanted to read it, not only is it written by Karen Rock, but the plot also sounded really interesting. Main character Kay is developing a compatibility app and I liked how the technology was incorporated into the story, at it's core it's still a romance story, but the app gave it a nice flavour.
From the first page I knew I was going to enjoy this book. I really like Karen's writing style and I liked Kayleigh from the moment she stood up to her old boss and decided to make her own choices. She's such a strong character, finally taking a chance and fighting for herself, I could easily relate to Kayleigh as I've been in sort of the same position before and also started my own company and I know the doubts that go along with it. I also liked Niall, there was one thing he kept a secret from Kayleigh almost the whole book and I just knew it was going to be an issue. I wish he would've told her earlier, but then there would've been less drama towards the end.
The romance was done well and believable. Kay and Niall where childhood friends and after some years apart they meet again. I have a soft spot for friend-to-lovers stories and I thought the trope was handled well in this book. Their romance was sweet, heartfelt and believable.
I also liked the side character, Karen really knows how to make you feel for the side characters and animals in her books as well. I loved the two cats that played a role into the story. My favourite side character was Josh, the misunderstood angry child of Beth and Chris. It was amazing to see him change and grow throughout this book and the scenes with Niall and Josh where really sweet and well written.
To conclude: I really enjoyed this book, the story was interesting and the pace matched the story. The main and side characters where well developed and I could easily relate to Kay. The romance was sweet and believable.
August 28, 2014
Someone Like You is a sweet novel about 2 characters who rediscovered themselves through their love.
It’s a pure romance novel with funny moments. Moreover, it features the consequences of war; consequences affecting the soldiers’ families and also consequences affecting the soldiers themselves.
It also speaks about how people view themselves. Kayleigh is a woman who has suffered from grief. A woman who takes care of everyone she loves. A woman who was betrayed and hurt by her fiancee. A woman who never really got to see her true self. A woman who only saw what her delusional arrogant asshole fiance saw. Niall suffers from survivors guilt and guilt in general. He doesn’t see himself as a hero or as a good man. He sees himself as a cruel, grumpy, anti-social man who has nothing to offer to anyone.
Kayleigh uses that betrayal to prove to everyone that she’s not weak and she can make it on her own! Niall’s wake up call is when he is really left alone. That’s when he realizes that he doesn’t want to be alone. He doesn’t deserve to be alone! They meet again after all those years, they fall in love with each other once more and they discover themselves. They rely on each other and they learn to see themselves as the other does.
It’s a really beautiful story, well written with wonderful characters.
The only reason why I don’t rate it with 5 stars is the lack of intensity. I wanted something stronger, a highlight of some sort. I honestly enjoyed the book very much, but it didn’t have that spicy something. It is a good book, just not an extraordinary.
So, 4 Gorgeous Stars go to Someone Like You!!!
It’s a pure romance novel with funny moments. Moreover, it features the consequences of war; consequences affecting the soldiers’ families and also consequences affecting the soldiers themselves.
It also speaks about how people view themselves. Kayleigh is a woman who has suffered from grief. A woman who takes care of everyone she loves. A woman who was betrayed and hurt by her fiancee. A woman who never really got to see her true self. A woman who only saw what her delusional arrogant asshole fiance saw. Niall suffers from survivors guilt and guilt in general. He doesn’t see himself as a hero or as a good man. He sees himself as a cruel, grumpy, anti-social man who has nothing to offer to anyone.
Kayleigh uses that betrayal to prove to everyone that she’s not weak and she can make it on her own! Niall’s wake up call is when he is really left alone. That’s when he realizes that he doesn’t want to be alone. He doesn’t deserve to be alone! They meet again after all those years, they fall in love with each other once more and they discover themselves. They rely on each other and they learn to see themselves as the other does.
It’s a really beautiful story, well written with wonderful characters.
The only reason why I don’t rate it with 5 stars is the lack of intensity. I wanted something stronger, a highlight of some sort. I honestly enjoyed the book very much, but it didn’t have that spicy something. It is a good book, just not an extraordinary.
So, 4 Gorgeous Stars go to Someone Like You!!!
September 2, 2014
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
I received this book for review from Harlequin and the author. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
This author shows her readers what returning vets must be feeling. This story can also be an affirmation not to give up on any of the soldiers who seem to have trouble adjusting to being home. But patience has to be your friend because anything worth fighting for may take some time on your part. And they just may need a little push from a loved one to get them to feel a part of something again.
Karen shows the reader that you don’t need sex to have a great book – you just need to be able to feel a connection between the two main characters. She also shows the reader that you may think you know someone and then they turn around and walk all over you but you need to be strong enough to show how much of a better person you are and don’t stoop to their level. It was a great read from start to finish and a great incentive to read more of this author’s work.
I received this book for review from Harlequin and the author. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
This author shows her readers what returning vets must be feeling. This story can also be an affirmation not to give up on any of the soldiers who seem to have trouble adjusting to being home. But patience has to be your friend because anything worth fighting for may take some time on your part. And they just may need a little push from a loved one to get them to feel a part of something again.
Karen shows the reader that you don’t need sex to have a great book – you just need to be able to feel a connection between the two main characters. She also shows the reader that you may think you know someone and then they turn around and walk all over you but you need to be strong enough to show how much of a better person you are and don’t stoop to their level. It was a great read from start to finish and a great incentive to read more of this author’s work.
September 3, 2014
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Rock and I can honestly say that I will be looking forward to reading more. It's the story of Kayleigh and Niall - two childhood friends that reconnect as adults. Both are suffering hardships and heartbreak - can they fight through their pain and see the love that sparks between them? Niall, a veteran, is suffering from survivor's guilt - will Kayleigh help him overcome that guilt? Kayleigh is struggling professionally - she needs Niall's help to make it but will he believe in her enough? She also seems to be the rock that holds her family together but who holds her up? Watching these two grow and recognize what is between them was enjoyable and believable. I felt connected to both characters and felt their feelings - made me laugh and cry - a real winner in my book. This isn't a steamy romance filled with sex scenes but a clean, beautiful story of two people falling in love. (Received copy for honest review)
September 4, 2014
This was another great book by Karen Rock. The story immediately jumped into the heartache and insecurities in the first pages and continued to build on the emotions from there.
Kayleigh is broken hearted and trying to find her place and to prove her worth. In order to get her life back on track she needs her compatibility app to be successful and she desperately needs the expertise of her childhood friend Niall. I loved Niall, he is a broken war veteran of Afghanistan and he’s pulled into his shell to protect the demons and secrets that haunt him.
I enjoyed the journey as they rediscovered their friendship, overcame the fear of messing up the closeness they’ve had for years and found hope and love in each other. I love how the ending brought with it understanding, overcoming doubts and forgiveness. The perfect HEA…just the way I like it!
Content: Clean!
Kayleigh is broken hearted and trying to find her place and to prove her worth. In order to get her life back on track she needs her compatibility app to be successful and she desperately needs the expertise of her childhood friend Niall. I loved Niall, he is a broken war veteran of Afghanistan and he’s pulled into his shell to protect the demons and secrets that haunt him.
I enjoyed the journey as they rediscovered their friendship, overcame the fear of messing up the closeness they’ve had for years and found hope and love in each other. I love how the ending brought with it understanding, overcoming doubts and forgiveness. The perfect HEA…just the way I like it!
Content: Clean!
August 21, 2014
I received this book from the author and from Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock.
This was a sweet, clean romance about Kayleigh has just lost her fiance and her job in one foul swoop. Now she wants to start up her own business with an app that will help people work out how compatible they are. To do this she needs help from an old friend Niall.
Someone like you was a very sweet and easy read which I really enjoyed. The author created real characters with flaws that made you feel for them. I really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet read.
I'm giving this 5 fangs.
This was a sweet, clean romance about Kayleigh has just lost her fiance and her job in one foul swoop. Now she wants to start up her own business with an app that will help people work out how compatible they are. To do this she needs help from an old friend Niall.
Someone like you was a very sweet and easy read which I really enjoyed. The author created real characters with flaws that made you feel for them. I really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet read.
I'm giving this 5 fangs.
June 22, 2015
Kayleigh Renshaw leaves her job and her cheating boss/fiance determined to make it on her own by developing a mobile app even seniors can use to help find a true love.
Her best childhood friend nearly died in Afghanistan and has come home after losing a leg. The man who saved him but died in the effort haunts him, especially after he meets the man's widow and children.
When Kayleigh asks his help--he's a coder and computer geek--he vows to help her, if only to assuage his guilt that it was her brother who saved him.
But what will Kayleigh do when she finds out how her brother died and who was responsible?
Her best childhood friend nearly died in Afghanistan and has come home after losing a leg. The man who saved him but died in the effort haunts him, especially after he meets the man's widow and children.
When Kayleigh asks his help--he's a coder and computer geek--he vows to help her, if only to assuage his guilt that it was her brother who saved him.
But what will Kayleigh do when she finds out how her brother died and who was responsible?
September 12, 2014
I really enjoyed this story. There were times when my heart broke for the characters, most of whom were dealing with a tragic loss. The romance itself was sweet and developed at the perfect pace. Other than some heavy kissing scenes the book was refreshingly clean. The focus wasn't on hopping into bed as fast as possible, but on the actual feelings developing between them. I absolutely adored the group of senior citizens in this book they were a hoot. This was the first book I have read by Karen Rock and I will be keeping my eyes open for more of her novels.
September 21, 2014
this book is so not the classic love story formula plot. The characters are realistic, no one is perfect and they have both good and bad parts to their personalities. This book was realistic as it dealt with outcomes from families who had lost friends and loved . ones in the war in Afghanistan. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good romance novel.
February 14, 2017
Nope.
Not sure what it was but I didn't like it. I never connected to the heroine at all. In fact I really disliked her. Niall was fine, but didn't really thrill me.
It was a book that should have worked for me but didn't deliver. I ended up skimming the last two chapters just to finish it. I came so close to TNFing it.
Not sure what it was but I didn't like it. I never connected to the heroine at all. In fact I really disliked her. Niall was fine, but didn't really thrill me.
It was a book that should have worked for me but didn't deliver. I ended up skimming the last two chapters just to finish it. I came so close to TNFing it.
August 10, 2014
Read my review on RomanceJunkies.com by clicking on the link below:
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September 3, 2014
Good story.
October 29, 2017
I almost stopped reading early in the book when Niall's secret was revealed to the reader because it is one of those "coincidences" that connect the 2 main characters but I kept reading because other parts of it were interesting. The rest of it remained relatively interesting but outcomes due to the secret annoyed me so I would only give it 2 stars.
April 7, 2018
Kayleigh is a heroine who grows as a main character in this tale. Tortured Niall Walsh is a disabled vet of Afghanistan war. Good story. Start up tech business, senior citizens,
cats, family ties, water aerobics, tae-kwon-do.. lots to love here.
Setting: New York City. 377 pages.
cats, family ties, water aerobics, tae-kwon-do.. lots to love here.
Setting: New York City. 377 pages.
February 14, 2018
Nice romance
September 27, 2014
This was precious. Two people one disillusioned and not trusting due to betrayal by those close to her. the other disillusioned and guilt ridden due to events beyond his control. they were childhood friends in need of each other but not wanting to reach out after drifting apart. So fate steps in and forces them to meet.
At first Niall acts distant. Why? Guilt that he shouldn’t have but does. He wants to protect Kayleigh and not let her get hurt by him or anyone but that doesn’t quite cut it for her. Kayleigh forges forward invading Niall’s thoughts even after he was a total jerk to her. Once he takes her idea in mind, he comes on board with her in making a software app to help find love. Except for these two love was right in front of them just both to scared to take it by the horns and run with it.
As they go through the rigamaroll of working together, they get close and lines do blur. With niall you see a kind and understanding man who has lost his way due to anger and guilt. Kayleigh is helping him to live again. To unfold and become who he once was a vibrant smiling kind man who lived life. Kayleigh has Niall show her how to live and become her own person. He encourages her and trusts her. Sometimes she takes advantage of this but he is steadfast and never strays.
As we watch this sweet relationship unfold we meet some fun characters at the nursing home who surprisingly are the heroes of this story. they will crack you up with their interactions. We also see the seedy characters the ones that get your rankles up and want you to slap them upside the head. These are the ones that push Kayleigh and Niall to succeed and show them that there is more to life and business that shady ways.
The author writes a sweet look at living again and finding strength and support in those you always knew but were to afraid to take a chance with. A story of forgiveness and finding love and life amongst those you treasure the most-friends and family. Friends who will be there no matter what and help you live again. Friends who become more and will have you feel safe and whole again. A sweet clean read that will have you smiling and rooting for the underdogs.
At first Niall acts distant. Why? Guilt that he shouldn’t have but does. He wants to protect Kayleigh and not let her get hurt by him or anyone but that doesn’t quite cut it for her. Kayleigh forges forward invading Niall’s thoughts even after he was a total jerk to her. Once he takes her idea in mind, he comes on board with her in making a software app to help find love. Except for these two love was right in front of them just both to scared to take it by the horns and run with it.
As they go through the rigamaroll of working together, they get close and lines do blur. With niall you see a kind and understanding man who has lost his way due to anger and guilt. Kayleigh is helping him to live again. To unfold and become who he once was a vibrant smiling kind man who lived life. Kayleigh has Niall show her how to live and become her own person. He encourages her and trusts her. Sometimes she takes advantage of this but he is steadfast and never strays.
As we watch this sweet relationship unfold we meet some fun characters at the nursing home who surprisingly are the heroes of this story. they will crack you up with their interactions. We also see the seedy characters the ones that get your rankles up and want you to slap them upside the head. These are the ones that push Kayleigh and Niall to succeed and show them that there is more to life and business that shady ways.
The author writes a sweet look at living again and finding strength and support in those you always knew but were to afraid to take a chance with. A story of forgiveness and finding love and life amongst those you treasure the most-friends and family. Friends who will be there no matter what and help you live again. Friends who become more and will have you feel safe and whole again. A sweet clean read that will have you smiling and rooting for the underdogs.
October 16, 2014
Karen Rock's romance, Someone Like You, deals with sensitive issues such as post-war trauma and the loss of loved ones, with understanding and knowledge, shedding light on these topics, and even offering solutions. Her excellent writing style paints pictures, not only of scenes, but also of Kayleigh's and Niall's thoughts and feelings as they reach crossroads in their lives.
When her fiance cheats on her, Kayleigh Renshaw is determined to build a new life and career, but Brett, also her boss, refuses to let that happen. Turned down for ten jobs, Kayleigh considers seeking help from an old friend who has connections, but Niall Walsh has changed since returning from Afghanistan. Experiencing the terrors of battle and losing the lower portion of one leg, Niall has become a recluse, and he works from his computer in his apartment. Kayleigh is desperate, however, and she decides to meet with Niall, hoping to find a new career--and her friend.
During their awkward lunch, Kayleigh realizes almost immediately that his emotions have retreated into a cave but, remembering their close friendship and how they helped each other through trying times, she asks Niall to work with her on an app which will help those looking for love to find the right relationships. One of her goals in starting High Dive Enterprises is to help her brother's family with their finances, since he perished in Afghanistan two years earlier.
Kayleigh tirelessly pursues her business dream, but just as she seems to be closing in on success, the unthinkable happens. Her team works diligently to overcome obstacles as Niall struggles to pull out of his hermit-like state, but he holds a secret which could send his life--and Kayleigh's--into a tailspin.
When her fiance cheats on her, Kayleigh Renshaw is determined to build a new life and career, but Brett, also her boss, refuses to let that happen. Turned down for ten jobs, Kayleigh considers seeking help from an old friend who has connections, but Niall Walsh has changed since returning from Afghanistan. Experiencing the terrors of battle and losing the lower portion of one leg, Niall has become a recluse, and he works from his computer in his apartment. Kayleigh is desperate, however, and she decides to meet with Niall, hoping to find a new career--and her friend.
During their awkward lunch, Kayleigh realizes almost immediately that his emotions have retreated into a cave but, remembering their close friendship and how they helped each other through trying times, she asks Niall to work with her on an app which will help those looking for love to find the right relationships. One of her goals in starting High Dive Enterprises is to help her brother's family with their finances, since he perished in Afghanistan two years earlier.
Kayleigh tirelessly pursues her business dream, but just as she seems to be closing in on success, the unthinkable happens. Her team works diligently to overcome obstacles as Niall struggles to pull out of his hermit-like state, but he holds a secret which could send his life--and Kayleigh's--into a tailspin.
March 15, 2015
I enjoyed this story but thought that the title is undistinguished and could have been something more individual.
A hardworking young woman in New York finds that her boss - and fiancé - in the software company is getting too close with another lady behind her back. Bravely Kayleigh Renshaw dumps both him and the job. He won't give her a reference, which in Europe would be actionable, but he says that he won't help opponent companies. Hold on, she could apply to do computer work in any kind of office, so she should still have pushed for a reference. But not surprisingly she wants to be as far away from the slimeball as possible and get on with her life.
Kayleigh meets up with a war wounded man who has been a friend of her family for years, but lately just lives indoors and works on line. Niall Walsh copes well despite his disability but can't communicate properly with Kayleigh as he was present when her brother died, which military rules forbid him from discussing. When Kayleigh comes up with an idea for a matchmaking phone app, she thinks Niall and she could go into partnership to develop it. Niall doesn't agree, on either the usefulness or the business plan. Now what?
The focus expands to take in two other generations and more of the community, with a family barbecue, a senior residents' home and a Botanic Gardens as backdrops. I enjoyed the way that the story built and how Niall is finally shocked out of his introspection. This is a sweet romance with a gradual increase in enjoyable tension between the two main characters, much character growth and modern dilemmas. Karen Rock is improving her stories and world creation in every book.
A hardworking young woman in New York finds that her boss - and fiancé - in the software company is getting too close with another lady behind her back. Bravely Kayleigh Renshaw dumps both him and the job. He won't give her a reference, which in Europe would be actionable, but he says that he won't help opponent companies. Hold on, she could apply to do computer work in any kind of office, so she should still have pushed for a reference. But not surprisingly she wants to be as far away from the slimeball as possible and get on with her life.
Kayleigh meets up with a war wounded man who has been a friend of her family for years, but lately just lives indoors and works on line. Niall Walsh copes well despite his disability but can't communicate properly with Kayleigh as he was present when her brother died, which military rules forbid him from discussing. When Kayleigh comes up with an idea for a matchmaking phone app, she thinks Niall and she could go into partnership to develop it. Niall doesn't agree, on either the usefulness or the business plan. Now what?
The focus expands to take in two other generations and more of the community, with a family barbecue, a senior residents' home and a Botanic Gardens as backdrops. I enjoyed the way that the story built and how Niall is finally shocked out of his introspection. This is a sweet romance with a gradual increase in enjoyable tension between the two main characters, much character growth and modern dilemmas. Karen Rock is improving her stories and world creation in every book.
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September 16, 2014Someone Like You by Karen Rock was a sweet romance about two former best friends who reconnect after life has crushed them a bit. Niall, a former soldier, is home now after a devastating mission and that has left him altered both physically and emotionally. Kayleigh has just broken things off with her fiancé and has quit her high end job as a software developer. Not wanting to be hurt again and also wanting to set out on her own she comes up with an idea for an app to help others find their compatible mates. Kayleigh needs Niall’s skill as a programmer to pull this off. With a little bit of a Beauty and the Beast vibe running through the story and the help of Kayleigh’s grandfather and his senior citizen friends, Kayleigh wants to help Niall come out of his shell and become the friend she knew him to be when they were kids. However, the path to true love is not as easy as the app makes it sound plus they are facing many obstacles and dark secrets. Can Niall and Kayleigh pull off their business and love? I liked the input of the senior citizens at the assisted living home where Kayleigh’s grandfather lived and their view of life. I enjoyed this tale and look forward to more by the author Karen Rock. This is a clean read and has no language. I received this book from the author however the opinions are my own.
September 28, 2014
"She intended to leave her mark on life, while he wanted to pass through it without leaving more scars."
Someone Like You is exactly as advertised. It is a heartwarming romance with a happily-ever-after. It includes forgiveness, redemption, and a relationship that is meant-to-be. Kayleigh and Niall were friends as kids, lost touch, and eventually reunited over a business proposal. There were a few hurdles, but, as is the intent with hurdles, they are eventually overcome.
This book is very well-written. It flowed nicely and the vocabulary was rich and varied. The pacing at which the story unfurled was a bit slow for me. I like to experience more of the relationship rather than having the book end just as the romance begins. In addition, I would have liked a few more suprises within the storyline. However, Someone Like You is the book that it purports to be. What you see is what you get with this book, and if you like a clean, uplifting romance, Someone Like You may be just the book you're looking for!
**A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review**
Someone Like You is exactly as advertised. It is a heartwarming romance with a happily-ever-after. It includes forgiveness, redemption, and a relationship that is meant-to-be. Kayleigh and Niall were friends as kids, lost touch, and eventually reunited over a business proposal. There were a few hurdles, but, as is the intent with hurdles, they are eventually overcome.
This book is very well-written. It flowed nicely and the vocabulary was rich and varied. The pacing at which the story unfurled was a bit slow for me. I like to experience more of the relationship rather than having the book end just as the romance begins. In addition, I would have liked a few more suprises within the storyline. However, Someone Like You is the book that it purports to be. What you see is what you get with this book, and if you like a clean, uplifting romance, Someone Like You may be just the book you're looking for!
**A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review**
September 14, 2014
Kayleigh and Niall were best friends throughout childhood camp days. He was her rock. But, he hasn't been in contact since returning from Afghanistan. She knows he lost his leg in the war. She lost her brother in the same war. But is he the same boy she knew before? As a man, he is a hermit, not open at all. He has a secret. Will it tear them apart? Regardless of how badly he wants to be left alone, she needs him. Will he step out into the light to help her? He is one of the best code writers and she needs him to beat her old company at getting a patent for her new ap. Will he help her? He acts so withdrawn. Read and enjoy as they discover each other again...through friendship, business partnership, and maybe more.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
September 10, 2015
Once again, Karen Rock has delivered an emotionally satisfying read that pulls the reader in and doesn't let go. I loved reading Niall and Kayleigh's story. Both characters were so well drawn that they felt like friends of mine. and. Rock did a phenomenal job of raising the stakes and keeping the momentum up throughout the book. I felt like the characters' responses to the conflicts felt genuine and the supporting characters had depth and were important to the story rather than being filler or comic relief.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional romance that involves taking risks, keeping secrets you don't want to keep, & going into dark places to pull someone you love back into the light.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional romance that involves taking risks, keeping secrets you don't want to keep, & going into dark places to pull someone you love back into the light.
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