This one was surprisingly good. I read all day until I finished it.

4 Stars

Content: language ( )

Rom com are ok on the screen and I think that’s where they need to stay. This was an ordinary boy next door type book where girl and boy are friends since kids grow just being friends then fall in love. Been there done that. The writing was good just needed something different. There are too many books like this. ( )

"Better Than the Movies" was a cute rom-com suitable for all ages. Although the female protagonist annoyed me, I adored Wes, her next-door neighbour. While the plot was predictable, the storyline was cute and the banter amusing putting a smile on my face most of the time as I read it. A sweet read.

This was a very cute book, while not quite a fake dating trope (my favorite trope), there still a plan that involves something to that effect with a little enemies to lovers thrown in. One of the things I liked about this book that Painter did really well was incorporate a little but of that Rom com magic that you see in movies, and I could actually see this becoming a movie in the future. I love the incorporating of movie quotes at the start of the chapter and Liz's ability to pick a song for the moment which makes sense considering what she wants to go to school for.

As for Liz and Wes, at first I didn't know if I would like them. To be honest, I'm not much of a fan of the whole enemies to lovers trope but it was rather quickly that Liz and Wes became friendly and their arguing (which I can become annoyed at) became friendly bickering. Liz was quirky, but I didn't like that she tried to change herself to make Michael like her. Wes was pretty likable, after the first initial introduction of him and I loved the end of it. I do like that Liz had a slow realization of her feelings for Wes, but of course they had to make it a bit complicated so they couldn't get together right away.

Overall, if you like Rom Coms, this is for you. ( )

This book genuinely had me questioning why I couldn't have a neighbor like this! I loved the effort Wes put into talking with Liz's even throughout their little rivalry. It was amazing and honestly made me realize how single I was when her parents told her about him listening to her play. There is so many amazing scenes in this book. I truly mean this when I say this book will hold a special place in my heart ( )