Hollyn lives with the movies in her head. It's easier to live there than to face the anxiety of meeting new people or the constant tics from her Tourette's. Trying to make it in the big city of New Orleans, Hollyn claims the "Miz Poppy" moniker, where she has a cult following of her online movie and local entertainment reviews. In order to force herself out of her shell, Hollyn rents space in the WorkAround community office building and soon, she's forced into friendships with a hilarious cast of characters, including the ever so charming Jasper. Jasper serves as the resident coffee boy, but has big dreams of creating an improv theatre of his own. Soon Hollyn and Jasper realize they can help each other and a steamy friends with benefits relationship comes to life between the two. Told in dual POV's, Yes & I Love You tells the story of stepping out of your comfort zone and pushing the boundaries of what you thought was possible for your life.
I loved this book so much. It was smart and witty, with just the right amount of steam. The cast of characters compliment each other so well. Each friend plays a distinct role in helping the other find their true path, constantly believing in and pushing them outside of their comfort zones. Andi, the true-crime podcaster, had me laughing from the moment she was introduced and the Hail Yes! improv group made the book for me. The improv scenes were hysterical.
The chemistry between Japser and Hollyn was on point. I swooned over their adorably awkward interactions and their hilarious banter had me turning the pages so quickly. Most importantly, the each help each other in their different journeys, quickly building a safe space of trust, where one another can truly discover what they want in life.
Yes & I Love You resonated with me deeply. My son was recently diagnosed with Tourette's and as a mother, you constantly worry about your child's future. When they have a neurological disorder, you know that they are going to face hardships others might not. Reading Hollyn's journey and how she was determined to live her life to the fullest, despite her Tourette's and anxiety, gave me so much hope. Her tics were very realistically portrayed (something that doesn't happen all the time in mainstream media), which was very important for me. I have never read a book where the main character has Tourette's and for that, I thank you, Roni Loren.
A special thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Yes & I Love You comes out March 2!
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