Member Reviews

I'd like to thank the publisher for this Netgalley and a chance to read this book prior to release day. All of the opinions in my review are my own.

This book was a really cute rom-com read. It has many of the tropes that one wants when reading a rom-com too, such as: found family, forced close-proximity, and small town shenanigans, I loved the witty banter between Jake and Rayah, and her found family of fitness instructors are just the best!

Jake is an actor and hoping to land a superhero role in an upcoming movie. Rayah owns a fitness gym that is an all-inclusive experience, and happens to be the perfect place for Jake to train with the privacy he desires. Tons of hilarity ensues, causing Jake and Rayah to endure forced close-proximity, and dare say I....a romance!

Underneath all of the flirtation and romance, there are two issues that the main characters are dealing with that make this light-hearted romance a bit deeper. I really enjoyed the chronic illness inclusion, as that is a subject not often touched on!

If anyone has a trigger for past SA, please use caution and read, only if you are comfortable doing so.

Was this review helpful?

I had high hopes, I mean, that cover? Adorable! And the synopsis got me like, "This is gonna be good!" But, sigh, it kinda tripped after 20%, and now I'm here a bit disappointed. The potential was sky-high, but it's was a big mess with pacing issues.

The writing started smooth, making it a quick read, but after 30%, it went on a rollercoaster. Rushed pace, no clear rhythm – like the author was trying to cram all their ideas into those little 400 pages. Just needed better pacing or maybe a few more pages to breathe. Now, the dialogue – it started natural, but as the main characters got closer, it got cringe-worthy. I'm talking goosebumps of cringe, and not the good kind. Also, mixed POV’s? Usually my jam, but here, it felt like a mixtape gone wrong. Got a bit lost at times.

Plot Rundown: Jake Newman, a Hollywood hunk with secret health issues (POTS), and Rayah Summers, a hard-ass trainer on the brink of bankruptcy. Jake needs to shape up for a superhero role, and Rayah's resort is his last hope. But it's not just about the workouts; it's a balance beam nightmare with secrets threatening everyone's dreams.

Rayah: Admirable journey, really, but for some reason, I couldn't fully attach myself to her. Sweet, funny, and overcoming trauma – great qualities, but not super obsessed with her character.

Jake: Is very desperate and cheesy after 30%. I couldn't take him seriously, and my attachment level was even lower than with Rayah. His POTS was handled beautifully, though. The book shed light on a sensitive topic, and I learned a lot about POTS, so props for that.

Romance: Chemistry? Yes. Conversations? Good. Desperation? A bit too much. Liked their relationship but felt the third-act breakup was way too late (not that I even like third-act breakups in books), and the end was severely rushed.

Fitness Storyline: Loved it! Not your usual abusive diet culture, but a natural fitness journey. Gym family vibes and small-town charm – nailed it. The female trainer angle was refreshing. Great insight into fitness without being preachy – well done!

Overall, cute, sweet, spicy – a mixed bag. Not a perfect five, but hey, it's a cute read. Celebrity romance vibes on point. Characters and writing could use some polishing, but it's a nice addition to your reading list. Coming out on January 29, 2024 – mark your calendar if you're into playful, lighthearted romance with self-improvement vibes.

Note: I'm low-key hoping the author spills the tea on Vicky and Samuel. Almost loved them more than the main duo! Also, more Grace, please.

"Thank you NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for sending me a copy of this e-arc. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Was this review helpful?

This book was easy to get into in the first half of the book but then the pace slowed down for me afterwards. I still enjoyed the interaction of the main characters and they were well written. Overall it was a cute romance book!

Was this review helpful?

Overall this book was a cute fun romance book. I loved the characters thought they were written pretty well. I liked that it was a workout book with the female being the trainer, enjoyed that the male main character did have a disability and his journey of accepting it.
I did find it very rushed the whole book took place from September- November. And due to the fast timeline and the way the one character was described and her trust issues due her past I’m having a hard time understanding how she just bam instantly got over it and 100% trusted the main male character so fast.

Thank you Entangled Publishing for providing this ARC all opinions are my own

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed this book! It was sweet and spicy while remaining realistic. I love a celebrity romance, and this one was well done. I appreciated that it touched on real world problems. It really helped round out the story! The chemistry between the two main characters was palpable!

Was this review helpful?

Cutest book ever! First let me preface this by saying I’m not a fan of the 3rd act break up but this doesn’t really count as that and it was really well written. The characters are great and the world building is prefect. The pace of the story is awesome and usually I’m not a fan of slow burn romance but this was amazing. The steam is excellent! I love the POTS representation in this book with Jake and Ray’s trauma was heartbreaking but it’s a real thing that happens and it was refreshing to see her get justice! Sensitive subject but handled beautifully. This book is witty and the banter is everything. I hope there’s a book two because I am hooked and need more of Jake and Rayah. And let’s be real, Granny Jean too lol. Amazing book. Highly recommend!

Was this review helpful?

"Work It Out" by Eva Siedler is like a rom-com on steroids, with a Hollywood hunk, Jake, sweating it out to get abs in a quirky desert resort owned by the hardworking Rayah. Jake's got secrets, including a health issue, and Rayah's on the brink of bankruptcy. The plot's as chaotic as a three-ring circus, involving fitness centers, aliens, and even a best friend dealing with abuse. And did I mention the actor's got two names? Chris or Jake, pick one! Also, Rayah's bestie is secretly in love with her, and there's some weird email blackmailing going on.

The book starts strong with an interesting premise and cool dialogue, especially in the first 20%. But then, it's like the plot decided to do a marathon with too many twists. POTS adds a unique touch, but the jumble of subplots makes it hard to keep track. Despite some spicy moments, the confusion earns "Work It Out" a casual 2.5 stars. Good for a light read if you're up for a narrative workout!

Thank you Entangled Publishing for providing this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and freely given.

Was this review helpful?

There was definitely many layers to this one, making it a deeper romcom than I expected. Jake/Chris (one is his actor name) is up for a big superhero role, akin to our Marvel universe, but he has to buff up for the role. That’s easier said than done for someone who suffers from POTS.
Rayah is hired to get him in shape, which starts off a bit rocky given some altitude sickness, and then later discovery (on her end) of his POTS. Also that there is no denying their chemistry. Layers get added as Rayah’s past comes back to haunt her, some of Jake’s does to as well as some obligations he has to getting the part, managers, a bad father, a best friend who has unrequited feelings, and of course, the “I can’t keep my hands off of you” aspect.

This one was a workout of my brain at time (LOL get it?), and I enjoyed it! Thank you Entangled Publishing for the early copy.

Was this review helpful?

This was a good book. I loved it. Seeing Rayah become a beast and work through her trauma was amazing and eye-opening, and seeing a book written about a guy with POTS isn't something that I've seen before. I didn't know guys could have POTS, and I'm glad it's being talked about now.

Was this review helpful?

This book ALMOST made me want to start working out regularly.... almost! But it did make me want to find a love and understanding relationship like theirs!

Was this review helpful?

Work it out by Eva Siedler is about a former gymnast that is trying to save her gym and an actor who has to tramsform his physique in a short period of time.
The book was really easy to get into in the begining, but felt kind of slow to read in the second half.
I really liked their chemistry and their conversations, the author’s humor and sarcasm. But the mmc was a little desperate at times. I liked their relationship and the fact that they could be vulnerable with each other.
The end felt wrong with the hole thing with Yvonne, the third act breakup was a little too late in the book and everything was rushed.
Even though she mixes diffrent povs I didn’t find it that difficult to follow.
I hope she’ll write a book about Vicky and Samuel and I would also love to find out more about Grace.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book early! I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

I really loved the premise of this book and I got so excited when I saw that I had been approved for an ARC.

The characters were likeable, relatable and you couldn’t help but root for them. I also loved that this book gave representation to a condition that you don’t see portrayed much in media.

I do feel that a lot happened in such a small amount of pages and that made me feel overwhelmed and confused. I think that due to that, it felt rushed to me at the end. This is just my personal opinion and I can see lots of people picking this up and loving it.

I’m super interested to see what comes next with this author.

Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for providing me with this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Was this review helpful?

I judged this book by it's cover because it's beautiful. I loved the fitness aspect in this book because it was not diet culture or abusive. I liked the gym family and the small town aspects. It was quirky (See: town member who thinks they are an alien) but overall a good story.

TW for USA Gymnastics assault plot

Was this review helpful?

Work It Out was the fun, engaging rom com I needed to start my new year off right.
I absolutely adored Rayah and Jake and all the side characters. This book was so much more than I expected in that way. I didn't expect to see such an elaborately built story and world (I would love to visit Explosion Fitness). The fact that it all came together so seamlessly made it that much better and difficult to put down.
There is so much banter not only between the main characters, but between all the characters, I found myself laughing out loud many times.
The way Rayah and Jake feel something they have never felt before for anyone else was a breath of fresh air especially due to the obstacles they both had and still are dealing with in their lives. The way they communicated through jokes and serious conversation was very authentic and not forced at all. Jake is my kind of guy, flirty, fun, doesn't take himself too seriously, but would do anything to fiercely protect someone he loves. Rayah is a strong woman who surrounded herself by a beautiful found family that would move the earth for her, as she would do the same for them.
This was a book I found difficult to put down and read well into the night because of the fun, authentic, heartbreaking at times, then heart mending way it was written. I can't wait to read more from Eva Siedler in the future.

Was this review helpful?

This had a beta hero, small town, chronic illness rep, and found family. But I was bored with the flat writing style and the MMC’d dialogue. If I didn’t have to finish it to review it, I would have DNF at %15

I disliked the dialogue and I struggled to understand some of the characters’ motivations. The relationship felt underdeveloped with way too much telling. And how many times must you use the nickname cupcake? I would have been more interested if I didn’t know Jake’s diagnosis in chapter one. YMMV

Was this review helpful?

This book sadly took me a while to get through but it was a cute read. I really wanted to love this book but I really could not get into it. I personally thought the main characters were lacking a bit of chemistry.

Was this review helpful?

"Work It Out" by Eva Siedler takes readers on a whirlwind of charm, vulnerability, and unexpected sparks that ignite in the unlikeliest of places. Set against the backdrop of a high-end health resort in Arizona, this book isn't just a romance—it's a delightful rollercoaster of emotions and self-discovery.

At the heart of this tale is Jake Newman, an actor on the brink of a career-defining role. But behind the glitz of Hollywood lies a secret he grapples with a condition he's determined to keep hidden. Enter Rayah Summers, a resilient former gymnast pouring her soul into a struggling resort. Their worlds collide, setting off a chain reaction of humor, trust, and undeniable chemistry.

Siedler masterfully crafts characters whose vulnerabilities feel genuine. Jake and Rayah's banter crackles with sarcasm and warmth, drawing readers into their world effortlessly. The dynamic between them is magnetic, a blend of sweetness and sass that leaps off the pages.

The book skillfully navigates themes of disability representation and masculinity while serving up a feast of lighthearted moments and heartfelt connections. From Hogrid the pig stealing scenes to the nuanced discussions on love, ambition, and past traumas, every element adds layers to this engaging narrative.

While some aspects could've received more attention, Siedler's writing style shines through, injecting humor and authenticity into every chapter. The pacing keeps you hooked, making it an addictive read from start to finish.

"Work It Out" isn't just about love; it's about finding strength in vulnerability, embracing imperfections, and daring to chase dreams against all odds. With a blend of spice, heart, and an array of well-developed characters, this book invites you on a rollercoaster of emotions that's utterly satisfying. Whether you're drawn to the romance, the witty banter, or the depth of the characters, this book is a thrilling journey worth embarking on.

Warning: This book is a delightful blend of charm, laughter, and heartache, so prepare to be thoroughly entertained and emotionally invested!

Special thanks go to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for providing the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

This is a somewhat the opposite of many books. Usually, the first few chapters are hard to get through and then the rest of the story is pretty easy to read and addictive. With this book, I was instantly engrossed with the characters and writing style, only for it to fall flat later on in the story.

I loved how both MCs could be vulnerable around each other, both physically and emotionally. I'm usually a hater of name calling (honey, sweetheart) but the way Jake called Rayah 'cupcake' actually felt natural and super cute. They just had great chemistry and trust, and oh my god I loved the sarcasm. The scene where Rayah effortlessly carries Jake (who's much taller than her) had me swooning. Ooh and also their "fur baby" Hogrid the pig, wow he was such a character.

For disability rep, I'll say I was impressed. I hadn't even heard of POTS before reading this book, so the information was quite welcome. Jake has a good number of episodes in the story and seeing how it affected him (and how he tried to keep it a secret) struck a chord with me.

While the story has some great plot points, I was not very happy with the flow in narration, though I loved Siedler's writing style and humor. I'm not going to hate on this book because I enjoyed it, but there's so much that could've been done better. And I'm keeping an eye out for more books by the author!
(Rating is rounded up)

Was this review helpful?

The story revolves around Deanna, a tech-savvy character who relies heavily on numbers and is skeptical about love, and River, an artistic, nerdy, hopeless romantic with a childhood crush on Lexi, who happens to be Deanna's sister. Despite Deanna's early advice to River about moving on from Lexi, the two reconnect when River returns to take care of his ailing grandmother, who happens to live next door to Deanna.

Deanna, deeply engrossed in her tech pursuits, has created a new dating app and is seeking investors to expand its reach. She's meticulous in using algorithms to find perfect matches, including her sister Lexi. When River, all grown up, reenters her life, sparks fly, and Deanna finds herself making a wager with him. The challenge is for River to convince her of the magic of falling in love—if he succeeds, he can pursue Lexi; if not, he must help Deanna maintain Lexi's relationship.

The story unfolds as River and Deanna spend time together, and River unexpectedly finds himself falling for Deanna. The narrative is filled with delightful banter and humor, especially from River's smutty romance novelist grandma. It's refreshing to see a female character take the lead in the tech industry and be the powerhouse in the relationship, and the dynamic between Deanna and River is both fun and endearing. Overall, a charming and entertaining read that I would recommend to fans of romantic comedies.

Was this review helpful?

I was really interested in this book because of the summary, I’m a sucker for a celeb and nonslip romance. However, I struggled to get into the story, as I found the plot and characters hard to follow. Thank you for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?