On the Corner of Love and Hate (Hopeless Romantics, #1)

by Nina Bocci

[Sam@WLABB]

Rating: 3.5 Stars

Emma and Cooper had been thick as thieves as kids, but they drifted apart in college. After graduation, they both returned to their hometown, and even got jobs working together, but Emma was never able to rekindle that friendship she once had with Cooper. When his campaign for mayor hit a snag, Cooper recruited Emma to help, and as the two began spending more and more time together, Emma must confront the confusing feelings she had for her best friend turned frenemy.

This book started really strong for me, and the ending had me feeling all sorts of wonderful, but there were a few ups and downs in-between.

This book was funny. Emma had a great voice. I found her witty and amusing, and I there were so many hilarious interactions between her and other members of Hope Lake. What can I say, good banter goes a long way with me.

I was also a fan of the town and all the wonderful denizens, who filled it. Small towns are always fabulous, and with this focusing on the politics and community, I really got to get acquainted with Hope Lake, which seems like a fabulous place to live.

I though Bocci did a great job weaving Emma and Cooper's history into this tale. She shared so many of their memories, both happy and painful, and I loved having that window into their shared past. It helped me see how they got to where they are and also better understand why they were making these particular choices.

I liked Emma right away, even if she was in all sorts of denial, but I grew to love Cooper. Initially, I found him to be a cocky jerk, but as the campaign continued, I got to see a different side of him. I also thought he was way more honest, than Emma. There were some moments that he made me swoon and drove me to happy tears, and I was definitely part of his fan club by the end.

I believe this series will be focusing on the friend-quartet, and I am there for those books. It was insta-love for me with Henry. He was just so sweet and caring and considerate, and I really need to see him get his HEA. The other friend, Nick, amused me, and I am interested in getting to know him better.

Though there were a few things that didn't totally work for me, I found myself enjoying watching Cooper and Emma finally acknowledge their festering feelings, and I look forward to reading the other books in this series.