Publication
Gallery Books, 2017.
Status
Available
Description
Fiction. Romance. Humor (Fiction.) HTML:From subway to Broadway to happily ever after. Modern love in all its thrill, hilarity, and uncertainty has never been so compulsively readable as in New York Times bestselling author Christina Lauren's Roomies. Marriages of convenience are so...inconvenient. For months Holland Bakker has invented excuses to descend into the subway station near her apartment, drawn to the captivating music performed by her street musician crush. Lacking the nerve to actually talk to the gorgeous stranger, fate steps in one night in the form of a drunken attacker. Calvin Mcloughlin rescues her, but quickly disappears when the police start asking questions. Using the only resource she has to pay the brilliant musician back, Holland gets Calvin an audition with her uncle, Broadway's hottest musical director. When the tryout goes better than even Holland could have imagined, Calvin is set for a great entry into Broadway�??until his reason for disappearing earlier becomes clear: he's in the country illegally, his student visa having expired years ago. Seeing that her uncle needs Calvin as much as Calvin needs him, a wild idea takes hold of her. Impulsively, she marries the Irishman, her infatuation a secret only to him. As their relationship evolves and Calvin becomes the darling of Broadway�??in the middle of the theatrics and the acting-not-acting�??will Holland and Calvin to realize that they both stopped pretending a long… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member arlenadean
Title: Roomies
Author: Christina Lauren
Publisher: Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Roomies" by Christina Lauren
My Thoughts....
What a interesting read of "Roomies" where I found myself not being able to put this one down until the very end wanting to know
Even though this story may have had a good ending it would have been even greater if this story had a epilogue but yet I guess the reader can assume it was all good in the end. Would I recommend? Yes!
Author: Christina Lauren
Publisher: Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Roomies" by Christina Lauren
My Thoughts....
What a interesting read of "Roomies" where I found myself not being able to put this one down until the very end wanting to know
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what was going to happen to Holland and Calvin next. I like how this author was able to deliver such a good read that involved the 'musical aspects and the Broadway musical' that was so important to the read. Truly this marriage of convenience due to immigration was delivered so very well in this well written story. The two main characters Holland and Calvin were simply off the chart being to incredible and even somewhat realistic with each having some issues of their own. It was even great as the reader will see Holland finally finding herself by figuring herself out which was so very important in this story. It was also interesting seeing how this story wasn't just about romance but of...well this is where I will stop and say you will have to pick this novel up and see how well this author gives it to the reader. Even though I felt this some of this story was somewhat predictable it was still a good read where I enjoyed the journey. Be ready for a marriage of convenience that will grow into something much more with 'emotion, drama and even sexual tension.'Even though this story may have had a good ending it would have been even greater if this story had a epilogue but yet I guess the reader can assume it was all good in the end. Would I recommend? Yes!
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LibraryThing member tamaranewman
More of a 4 1/2. I enjoyed the book, I just had some issues with the beginning and ending, lol. Maybe just because I wouldn’t have reacted the way the characters did. The book was what I expected though and i experienced all the feelings I was meant to feel as I read it. There were parts and
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characters that I felt should have had a little more flesh to them. The ending was tied up a little neatly and quickly. And without spoiling anything hopefully I wish there was more women supporting women instead of what occurred. Show Less
LibraryThing member BooksForTheLiving
I immediately wanted to do a reread of this book the minute I finished it! It was one of those books that made me think "now what do I do with my life" after I was done. The characters are captivating, partly due to the fact that neither is perfect. Holland was a character I easily related to.
In an impulsive move, Holland ends up proposing marriage to this guy, Calvin, a street musician she has a crush on, even though they've never spoken. The reason behind her proposing is so that he can stay in the country (he is here illegally) and be the lead guitarist in her uncle's Broadway show (which happens to be his dream). I really liked how the story progressed, but I will say I was left a little bit wanting at the end. It just wrapped up a bit too quickly for my liking.
In romance novels, you'll find every kind of guy under the sun. However, it does seem that the regular good guy doesn't show up as much - and the regular good guy is my favorite. Calvin was just that. He's truly a good, nice, genuine guy. Does he make mistakes and missteps? Yes. But his intentions and actions up to and after those mistakes speak to the fact that he is a man of good character.
Overall, it was a truly enjoyable read. Fun, heartwarming, and swoon-inducing. Not only are the characters relatable, the writing, particularly about Calvin’s music is vivid and captivating. I hope to read more books by this wonderful duo that is Christina Lauren very soon!
I received a free copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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Scrambling through life, not quite sure what to do, a lot due in part to her fear of failure. She's never been a risk taker, and doesn't know (or doesn't want to) stick up for herself. In an impulsive move, Holland ends up proposing marriage to this guy, Calvin, a street musician she has a crush on, even though they've never spoken. The reason behind her proposing is so that he can stay in the country (he is here illegally) and be the lead guitarist in her uncle's Broadway show (which happens to be his dream). I really liked how the story progressed, but I will say I was left a little bit wanting at the end. It just wrapped up a bit too quickly for my liking.
In romance novels, you'll find every kind of guy under the sun. However, it does seem that the regular good guy doesn't show up as much - and the regular good guy is my favorite. Calvin was just that. He's truly a good, nice, genuine guy. Does he make mistakes and missteps? Yes. But his intentions and actions up to and after those mistakes speak to the fact that he is a man of good character.
Overall, it was a truly enjoyable read. Fun, heartwarming, and swoon-inducing. Not only are the characters relatable, the writing, particularly about Calvin’s music is vivid and captivating. I hope to read more books by this wonderful duo that is Christina Lauren very soon!
I received a free copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member strainglia
Roomies is a story of love after marriage. Despite her educational background, Holland finds it hard to land a great job or even start her novel. After all she has an MFA in creative writing. The only job she has was a “pity” job created for her as a favor for her talented uncle in Broadway.
The book is good. It is an enjoyable read and funny most of the times. The only thing I don’t like as much is the conflict between Holland and Calvin, “lies” in their relationship. There are also parts that need a little more exposurelike when Calvin’s parents came to visit but the tension was there . The ending is a little bit flat for me because I was expecting of something more grand , Holland didn’t “break up” with him for two months then poof after a swift charm and explanation it is all well?? . Conflict between the two just seems more petty, but very realistic in couples. Overall, it is a good read and I also enjoy the Uncles. So cute.
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She developed this huge crush on a talented subway musician, who later she married him as “a good deed” for her uncle’s Broadway show and for a talented guy who clearly has the talent to be in that show but initially couldn’t because of [il]legal reasons. The book is good. It is an enjoyable read and funny most of the times. The only thing I don’t like as much is the conflict between Holland and Calvin, “lies” in their relationship. There are also parts that need a little more exposure
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LibraryThing member Dove.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this sweet, charming love story. Holland is such a relatable character: a young woman trying to find her way and her voice. At the beginning we see Holland defined by the strength and talent of the people she loves: a spectator to the musician she has admired from afar,
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Calvin; a supporting character to her talented uncle; and a bit of a doormat to her friend Lulu. All of this is portrayed in a way that rings true, not pushed so far as to be annoying. I felt happy to see Holland grow and discover herself, charmed by her uncles, and endeared by Calvin. Add in moments were I snort-laughed, a few gasps here and there, this book had no extreme highs or extreme lows, but was an enjoyable ride. Show Less
LibraryThing member SimplyKelina
I was sent this book in exchange for a review from the publisher. My ratings and reviews will be my own personal opinions and are in no way influenced by publishers or authors who may have sent me books to review.
This started off with a little mystery/suspense and I was not sure where it was going
I was not sure if I was going to love the theater aspect of the story, but it worked. I also love how the author describes music hitting the soul and that is what brings the characters together.
This is actually my first Christina Lauren read. I really enjoyed her writing style. It just flows so easily leaving you to fly through the story.
I also loved the characters. What is there not to love about a sexy Irish musician and a book lover and writer. I think they paired well together.
Overall, this was so cute and I loved it. I highly recommend this especially for music and theater lovers.
This started off with a little mystery/suspense and I was not sure where it was going
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to go. I liked it though, as it pulled me in right away. It was not a great beginning to how Calvin and Holland meet.I was not sure if I was going to love the theater aspect of the story, but it worked. I also love how the author describes music hitting the soul and that is what brings the characters together.
This is actually my first Christina Lauren read. I really enjoyed her writing style. It just flows so easily leaving you to fly through the story.
I also loved the characters. What is there not to love about a sexy Irish musician and a book lover and writer. I think they paired well together.
Overall, this was so cute and I loved it. I highly recommend this especially for music and theater lovers.
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LibraryThing member authorjanebnight
Synopsis: Holland has a crush on a subway performer named Calvin. She convinces him to perform in her uncle's theatrical production but when he is hired they learn his visa has expired.
Undaunted, Holland suggests they get married so he can have his dream job and she can imagine, even if only for
My Rating:
4/5
I really enjoyed the characters in this novel. Holland's uncles are hilarious and I absolutely loved them. I also really enjoyed Holland as a character. She is a struggling writer and part of her character arc in this book is her pursuit of her writing dreams.
I loved that this book involves the theatre. I am a huge fan of theatre so all the scenes where Calvin and the crew are rehearsing or performing were especially fun for me.
This book was quite funny and I enjoyed the humor of the book.
The main tropes of the book is a marriage of convenience mixed with fake marriage. I like both of those tropes and they were done well. I love watching a couple get to know one another and slowly fall in love even though they don't have a "real" marriage.
I did feel like there was more focus on Holland and how she changes than I am used to in a romance novel. I felt like her arc, at times, took over the story and overshadowed the blooming romance with Calvin.
The book is told from Holland's perspective which I think is part of the reason it feels like her arc takes over. Sometimes being in Holland's head was annoying.
I would really have liked to have a dual perspective because I never felt like I fully knew Calvin and that was extremely detrimental because he did some pretty awful things in the latter part of the book. Things I would consider unforgivable.
I had a hard time being on board with them as a couple after what Calvin did and that hurt my enjoyment of the book a bit. I felt sorry for Holland and didn't want her to be with someone who could do what Calvin did.
There was also some drama with Holland's best friend that I could have done without.
Christina Lauren is a great storyteller and this wasn't a bad book but it is the book I have enjoyed least from this author of those I've read.
Other than the thing with Calvin, I had a pretty good time with this book but I don't know if I can recommend.
I loved the style and the humor of the book. But, as I said, it was hard to be onboard with the romance after Calvin screws things up.
Undaunted, Holland suggests they get married so he can have his dream job and she can imagine, even if only for
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the duration of his work for her uncle, that she has the man of her dreams.My Rating:
4/5
I really enjoyed the characters in this novel. Holland's uncles are hilarious and I absolutely loved them. I also really enjoyed Holland as a character. She is a struggling writer and part of her character arc in this book is her pursuit of her writing dreams.
I loved that this book involves the theatre. I am a huge fan of theatre so all the scenes where Calvin and the crew are rehearsing or performing were especially fun for me.
This book was quite funny and I enjoyed the humor of the book.
The main tropes of the book is a marriage of convenience mixed with fake marriage. I like both of those tropes and they were done well. I love watching a couple get to know one another and slowly fall in love even though they don't have a "real" marriage.
I did feel like there was more focus on Holland and how she changes than I am used to in a romance novel. I felt like her arc, at times, took over the story and overshadowed the blooming romance with Calvin.
The book is told from Holland's perspective which I think is part of the reason it feels like her arc takes over. Sometimes being in Holland's head was annoying.
I would really have liked to have a dual perspective because I never felt like I fully knew Calvin and that was extremely detrimental because he did some pretty awful things in the latter part of the book. Things I would consider unforgivable.
I had a hard time being on board with them as a couple after what Calvin did and that hurt my enjoyment of the book a bit. I felt sorry for Holland and didn't want her to be with someone who could do what Calvin did.
There was also some drama with Holland's best friend that I could have done without.
Christina Lauren is a great storyteller and this wasn't a bad book but it is the book I have enjoyed least from this author of those I've read.
Other than the thing with Calvin, I had a pretty good time with this book but I don't know if I can recommend.
I loved the style and the humor of the book. But, as I said, it was hard to be onboard with the romance after Calvin screws things up.
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LibraryThing member theeclecticreview
Holland Bakker was a stalker. Not the scary type, but the music enthusiast type. She took the long way to work every day just to see the subway musician play his guitar with lovely abandon until a homeless man pushes Holland onto the subway tracks and changes her life forever.
Calvin McLoughlin is a
See my complete review at The Eclectic Review .
Calvin McLoughlin is a
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Julliard graduate from Ireland with an expired visa playing guitar in the subway and in various unknown bands in New York. He is in America illegally and calls the police anonymously to help the beautiful young woman who fell on the tracks.See my complete review at The Eclectic Review .
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LibraryThing member StefanieGeeks
A hot Irish musician with an expired student visa makes for one steamy marriage of convenience laced with an intriguing immigration discussion.
LibraryThing member forsanolim
Holland Bakker, a twenty-something living in New York City in large part due to her uncles' goodwill (they help with her rent, and one of them, a well-regarded Broadway music director, got her a job at his theater), has developed a pretty big crush on a guitarist busking in a subway station. When
Not earth-shattering by any means, but quite enjoyable! I really enjoyed Holland's character, and Calvin's was cute as well, though outside of the two of them there weren't many characters deeper than a puddle. The plot wasn't revelatory or especially intricate, but the book did what it needed to do, and it was really a lot of fun to read.
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her uncle's show needs a new leading player, she finagles him the job, only to learn that he's in the States on an expired visa and can't legally take the position. Boom, a marriage of convenience is born, and the two start to get to know each other while simultaneously navigating the stresses of married life, a hit Broadway show, and the immigration-visa process.Not earth-shattering by any means, but quite enjoyable! I really enjoyed Holland's character, and Calvin's was cute as well, though outside of the two of them there weren't many characters deeper than a puddle. The plot wasn't revelatory or especially intricate, but the book did what it needed to do, and it was really a lot of fun to read.
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LibraryThing member readingbeader
Just what I needed after some heavy but good YA drama books.
LibraryThing member standhenry
Roomies is a hilarious quick read about a girl in her 20's named Holland who has a crush on a hot guy playing guitar in a NYC subway station. Their worlds collide after a bit of dramatic suspense and laugh out loud comedy. She helps him land a prestigious audition with a Broadway playwright (her
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uncle). He inspires her to start using that MFA to write stories again. I thought this would be a standard he said, she said set in New York. It is so much more. Some scenes get a little steamy which was unexpected but not a bad thing. The character and plot lines have depth and the reader will want to know what happens next. I enjoyed reading this and plan on recommending it to my close friends. Show Less
LibraryThing member bookczuk
Pandemic read. I continue to like this author duo for this sort of reading. Read while recovering from my second COVID jab.
LibraryThing member Okies
Mmm. I like Christina Lauren books, but I'm starting to see a pattern with the heroines - they are all in, then doubt themselves and doubt their lovers. Sometimes as a plot line it works and sometimes it is a little illogical. Holland can't seem to read Cal; she can't trust what he tells her, but
I can't not mention the narrator, K.C. Sheridan. I thought she was the worst reader where I've finished the book! Her voice is delightful and perfect for this kind of book, but her sing song reading was weird and annoying! I just had to grit my teeth to get through it. The sing song is a mannerism and I'm amazed the producer didn't rein it in.
She does the voices well, such as Cal's Irish voice, but at times she keeps the Irish accent for Holland which is a bit confusing.
Imagine my surprise when I see that she's narrated heaps of books!!
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there doesn't seem to be a substantial reason why not, it's just a plot device. Like Sweet Filthy Boy, I find the young heroines are bold but not brave, The progress of the budding relationships seems to rest almost entirely with the heroes. The women's ability to communicate with their lovers is bizarrely stunted. To me, the men come off remarkably well for managing to get the lovers over their hurdles. If it was left to the women, then heaven help us. I know this is a probably a stereotypical romance approach, and purely fictional, I feel discouraged about women after these two latest reads!I can't not mention the narrator, K.C. Sheridan. I thought she was the worst reader where I've finished the book! Her voice is delightful and perfect for this kind of book, but her sing song reading was weird and annoying! I just had to grit my teeth to get through it. The sing song is a mannerism and I'm amazed the producer didn't rein it in.
She does the voices well, such as Cal's Irish voice, but at times she keeps the Irish accent for Holland which is a bit confusing.
Imagine my surprise when I see that she's narrated heaps of books!!
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Language
Original language
English
ISBN
9781501165849
Original publication date
2017-12-05