This is a friends to lovers romance. Cole and Laila have been best friends for forever.

I thought this was too long but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

Many thanks to Net Galley and Harper Collins Christian Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I’ve always been a big fan of friends-to-lovers and this hit all the right notes. Despite knowing there just had to be a HEA, I legit worried and got teary-eyed when Cole said he was going to stay. It just broke my heart!

I did think that Cole’s mom was still kind of crappy for not being around even if his grandfather was keeping her updated.

Everything else was wonderful though- and I especially loved the pop culture references and seeing Brynn & Sebastian again.

Full of late 90s pop culture references, this is a sweet romcom about lifelong friends who, as they approach 40, find themselves wondering if they could be more.

Laila is a big fan of Meg Ryan, romantic comedies, Friends, music of the 90s - and the many references work with varying success. I’d imagine a younger reader (remember, I’m in my 50s so they all landed for me) might feel lost at times.

Overall, it’s very chaste. There’s only the barest amount of kissing, so if that’s not your romcom jam, this might not do it for you. And although these two are entering their 4th decade, there’s no mention of any previous relationships. Weird.

The writing is good enough, the dual POV narration works, as always. Audiobook worked.

Oh! And there is no third act break up.

It’s a nice, safe, easy read.

——
Cole and Laila have been inseparable since diapers. In fact, there’s barely been any time spent apart in over three decades; and even when Cole went away to college, he’d make the 500 mile road trip home to spend weekends with her.

Laila. His best friend.

Because apparently neither understands love?

But when Cole’s grandfather dies and he finds out that the restaurant he was sure would be left to him - he’s the chef and grandson after all - has been sold, he decides it’s time to make a big change.

And so he accepts a job in a kitchen in Brooklyn. New York. Across the country.

Laila follows him to NYC. For one week they will decide what they are to each other and what they might want.

And maybe understand what love looks like.

Thanks to @netgalley and @harpercollinschristian for the audiobook ARC. This one comes out June 4, 2024.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for this audiobook

This book was absolutely adorable. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. These books are like Hallmark movies on the page and I’m here.

As my friend says, it’s so nice to read rom coms about characters in their 30s and 40s. Makes you feel like it’s never too late to fall in love. We can all use that feeling sometimes.

If you’re looking for a fun, nerdy, New York vacation story, this one is for you.

Cute small town friends-to-lovers romcom about two best friends who have absolutely-never-considered-being-more-why-would-you-ask-that? When Cole’s grandfather passes away and his will is mistakenly interpreted, Cole decides to leave everything he knows behind - including Laila, his lifelong best friend, who isn’t ready to let go yet. Definitely intrigued enough to go back and read Brynn and Sebastian’s story now!

✨3.5 stars rounded up✨
I enjoyed listening to Cole and Laila Are Just Friends by Bethany Turner. It was super cute and wholesome with all the Hallmark vibes. I thought the narrators did a great job of bringing the town and people of Adelaide Springs to life and I’m definitely going to miss them!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio & NetGalley for the complimentary audio. All opinions expressed above are my own.

Thank you to Netgalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Bethany Turner for the chance to listen to this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I will start by saying that I started this listen and only got 10 minutes in when I pumped the brakes and said- Hold up- I have to go read the first book. I'm not certain if these are meant to be interconnected standalones- but for me- I already felt like I was missing too much context. Thankfully, my library had Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other at the ready. So this review is based on reading both books in order- and enjoying the big picture!

This was the sweetest friends to lovers story I have read. The build up from book 1 was perfect to show how comfortable and complacent they had become in their friendship. The story is glittered (not littered, glittered) with amazing NYC movie and TV references (When Harry Met Sally, You've Got Mail, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Ghostbusters, Friends, Gilmore Girls..). Milo Ventimiglia even is a character... how fun!

You'll love this if you enjoy light & sweet stories- no spice, no heartbreaking stress- just romance.

If you're a season/mood reader- this is a great fall read! Autumn in New York, how dreamy.

"Cole and Lalia Just Friends" by Bethany Turner is a sweet friends-to-lovers story that follows Cole and Laila, longtime friends. When Cole decides to move away after some life-changing news, their trip to New York together takes their relationship to the next level.
The writing is solid, and the story is engaging with just the right amount of tension and emotion. The pacing is mostly spot-on, though there are a few slow moments. The characters are well-developed, with Laila's chapters in first person and Cole's in third person, which gives an interesting perspective on their friendship and evolving relationship. Although tagged as a Christian book, there’s no mention of faith or religion.

However, the characters, who are supposed to be in their late 30s to early 40s, often behave more like they're in their 20s, which can be a bit hard to believe. The book also features characters from a previous book by the same author, but it’s not officially part of a series. Overall, I enjoyed this cute, easy-to-read romance and would be interested in reading more from Bethany Turner.

Thank you to Bethany Turner, NetGalley, and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for the opportunity to read this novel. It will be on sale on June 4, 2024.

This was a cute, heart-warming friends-to-lovers book. Cole and Laila have been friends for decades, but after some life-changing news, Cole decides he needs to move away and start fresh. Laila is supportive of her friend, but during their trip together in NY, things turn from just friends to something more. This is categorized as Christian, but it isn't, just a clean, sex-free book. I listened to the audiobook version, which was done in alternating POV chapters. Both narrators were good and while I don't think they made the book more enjoyable (as it was already pretty good), they didn't detract from the story either.

~~What I liked~~
-The writing was good, easy to read (or listen to) and the story was interesting. The tension and emotion were there, adding to the overall feel for the book. Pacing was moderate, generally perfect, with a few spots that dragged a tad.
-The characters were good. The majority of the book centered around Laila, with her chapter being told in first person. Cole's chapter were told in third person, which was an interesting choice stylistically. These perspectives allowed the reader to better understand the thoughts and motives of both characters.
-The friendship between Cole and Laila was sweet. There wasn't a huge focus on their friendship history, instead the focus was on how they were currently in their relationship and how they might become more.

~~What I didn't like~~
-The ages of the characters (late 30's to early 40's) was fine, but they behavior of the characters didn't align. They acted more like they were in their 20's. I really had to suspend my disbelief in this aspect.
-This book has characters from a previous book by the same author. It isn't listed as part of a series anywhere and while technically I did get through the book and was able to understand what was happening, there were several places where the history of the characters was referenced and I was confused. I wish it would have been more obvious that this was the second book in the 'series'. Aside from what I think is a quote from the book Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other before the prologue, there is no mention of any other book. As I listened to the audiobook version, this was REALLY confusing at the beginning of the book as there was literally zero context for this obscure quote.
-There were quite a few pop culture references, a few too many IMO.
-This is NOT a Christian book, just a clean, sex-free book. There is no mention of faith or religion in the book. I'm not sure why it is tagged as such.

Overall, it was a cute book that was easy to read and had a clean romance. I enjoyed it and while it didn't blow me away, I would be interested in reading other books by Bethany Turner.

Cole and Laila, two 30-year olds, are thrown for a loop as they discover that the restaurant Cole's grandpa owns and where they both work at, might close. As Cole wants to explore his options in New York City, Leila follows him begrudgingly. With the change in scenery, they both start to consider if there could be more between them.

For me it was a 3 star read. Even though the main characters were in their late 30s, they seemed rather childish to me. Also the way the characters started considering a relationship after decades of friendship seemed a bit unbelievable and very out of the blue.

Did not finish at 15%.

At this point in the story, not only do I doubt them as lovers, they don't even seem like best friends. We're told that Laila understands Cole perfectly; however, she cannot stop asking him "you okay" as he mourns for his grandpa. Who does that!? Good friends know you don't ask. You just hang around and provide comfort and laughter.

Okay... but maybe that's just me.

But then, around 15%, Cole hears some pretty horrible news and takes some time to be by himself. When he returns Laila sees his face and KNOWS he's okay cause apparently Cole knew to mask his feelings and not show his true self to her. But, in her mind, she knows him and can tell that everything is alright now.

Ya, this just makes me think they don't share their deepest selves with each other. If they're not even vulnerable with each other as friends, how is this going to happen for them to be more? I just don't have any interest in them as a couple.

I received this for free as an advanced reader audiobook copy. But, it's not for me. I don't like the way the characters are written. Since this is the second book I've DNF'd by this author, I'm thinking this isn't the author for me.

This book really enchants the reader. A perfectly sweet, friends to lovers, dual POV romcom, a couple of friends realizing maybe they're years' long friendship could be something more. Cole and Laila, now in their late 30s, have been inseparable and best friends since they were children. However, certain events in Cole’s life seem to be taking him away their hometown, Adelaide Springs, to New York. Before making any decisions, Cole and Laila decide to spend a week together in New York. She wants to convince him to stay in Adelaide Springs, and he wants to convince her to come with him. The week gets increasingly complicated for the two of them as romance comes to the forefront of their minds after decades of friendship, and many questions arise. Cole and Laila as characters were loveable, their quirks, humour and pop-culture references endearing, and their small moments of affection incredibly heartwarming and beautiful. The author spent several pages talking about a hug between Cole and Laila and it still wasn’t enough for me. I needed even more - the writing was lovely. I really enjoyed the writing and this author as this author was a new one for me and I will be looking up additional books. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity.

Cole and Laila are Just Friends was a tough slog for me. I enjoyed the sister book/prequel to this novel well enough. But, nothing prepared me for the juvenile bewilderment displayed in this book.

First, the banter was not banter. The characters just said annoying things very quickly with stream of consciousness. It was not amusing or endearing to this reader.

Second, and most importantly, the main characters were approaching forty, have been best friends and confidants for thirty years, and have the emotional capacity of a paperclip. It is entirely unbelievable that in a small town, neither party has engaged in a romantic relationship with each other or anyone else? Was I the only one baffled by this? And, for characters with this much life under their belt, no richness or layer of character was encountered while speaking about heavy topics such as Cole's adoption.

The audiobook narration was dual POV, easy to interpret. Thank you NetGalley and HaperCollins for a review copy.

Two late 30-something long-time childhood best friends’ lives get turned upside down when the family restaurant they both work at could potentially close. With this upcoming change, they discover what could be beyond their normal friendship. A feel-good, closed door (i.e. locked) romance that was a bit slow going at first…the plot picked up in the last quarter of the book for me. Although childhood friends to lovers isn’t a favorite trope of mine, (the bright, fun cover drew me in and said “pick me!”) I am learning to appreciate it more as it is interesting to see how an author discloses the backstories of the main characters and their shift to “something more”. The novel is written in a dual point-of-view, I liked that there was both a male and female narrator for the audiobook to portray Cole and Laila’s voices.
3.5 stars

Thank you NetGalley for this audiobook.
This was an enjoyable friends to lovers romance which was cute and funny. I loved the dual perspective as it allowed us to see both Cole & Laila’s reaction and internal thoughts to events & I loved their playful nature and friendship.

For me this was a 3 star read as even though I loved the playful nature of the two main characters they did both come across as a lot younger than the age they were meant to portray ( almost 40) which made imagining the characters hard. However overall this didn’t impact my enjoyment of the book and if you are looking for a good friends to lovers romance then I would definitely recommend.

I really enjoy the friends to lovers trope so I was pumped for this book. I was approved for both the audiobook and the ebook so I was lucky enough to read along as I listened. Both Cole and Laila never thought of themselves as anything more than friends - until they did. When Cole has the opportunity to move away, Laila has to analyze their friendship and exactly how much Cole means to her. This book cruised along at a steady pace. I feel like when the two finally got together, the sparks weren't enough. My romantic side wanted more! The ending was simple and I wonder if maybe having an epilogue might have been beneficial to showing the readers how the two were doing later in life.

This was a super sweet friends-to-lovers story. Cute banter, the main characters were oblivious of their love for one another after thirty plus years. Light and fluffy generally. One of the motivating drivers is a bit sad but, given that this is a romance, it all works out in the end.

I received an arc from netgalley and the publisher.

So...this story is about two friends in their midlife who are now experiencing the changes that life brings, and deciding how that will change their relationship. I found both the main characters likable. There was some banter but I felt it was flat at times, and I felt very little tension between the characters. The book was more like exploring the comfort of friendship and almost had like a platonic romance if that makes sense. I found the characters to be well developed. I did find something missing from this for me...and I think it was that it needed more romance development and absolutely more tension/attraction. If you are looking for spice...this is not your book. They only kiss a few times.

I love the male narrator. The female narrator's male voice wasn't deep enough for me but I though both their inflections were great.

This was really cute! I absolutely loved all the Friends, Gilmore Girls and When Harry Met Sally references!

I struggled with the fact that these almost 40 year olds were best friends and had never once considered dating. Or that they apparently hadn't had any serious relationships along the way to be jealous of. But all in all, this was a light, cute romance that made me smile.

Bethany Turner’s Cole and Laila are Just Friends is a delightful and heartwarming exploration of lifelong friendship teetering on the edge of something more. Set in the charming mountain town of Adelaide Springs, Colorado, this novel is a quintessential friends-to-lovers story that resonates with humor, warmth, and emotional depth.

Cole Kimball and Laila Olivet have been inseparable since childhood. Their bond, built on years of shared experiences, mutual support, and unwavering loyalty, is beautifully portrayed. Turner captures the essence of their friendship with authenticity, making their dynamic relatable and endearing. Cole, a talented chef working in his family’s restaurant, and Laila, a contented small-town girl with a quirky palate, share a rapport that is both comforting and genuine.

The narrative takes a poignant turn when Cole uncovers a family betrayal following his grandfather’s death, prompting him to consider moving to New York City. This revelation disrupts the stability of their relationship, introducing a sense of urgency and uncertainty. Laila’s love for her small-town life and her reluctance to see Cole leave create a compelling internal conflict. Her struggle to support Cole’s potential move while grappling with her own feelings adds emotional depth to the story.

Turner’s writing shines in her depiction of the week Cole and Laila spend in New York City. Their agreement to not influence each other’s decisions and simply enjoy their time together leads to moments of introspection, humor, and undeniable chemistry. The city, with its vibrant energy and endless possibilities, serves as the perfect backdrop for their evolving relationship. As they navigate the bustling streets and iconic landmarks, the sparks between them become impossible to ignore.

The gradual realization of their feelings for each other is handled with a deft touch. Turner avoids cliches, instead opting for a realistic portrayal of how deep-seated emotions can surface unexpectedly. The tension between wanting to preserve their friendship and acknowledging their romantic feelings is palpable, making their journey all the more compelling.

The supporting characters, including the quirky residents of Adelaide Springs and the colorful New Yorkers they encounter, add richness to the narrative. These characters provide humorous and heartfelt moments that enhance the main storyline without overshadowing it.

Cole and Laila are Just Friends excels in its witty dialogue and heartfelt moments, reminiscent of When Harry Met Sally and the beloved dynamic of Luke and Lorelai from Gilmore Girls. Turner’s ability to blend humor with poignant reflections on love and friendship makes this novel a standout in the contemporary romance genre.

In conclusion, Cole and Laila are Just Friends is a charming and emotionally satisfying read. Bethany Turner crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and deeply moving, exploring the complexities of transitioning from friendship to romance. With its well-drawn characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt message, this novel is a must-read for fans of romantic comedies and character-driven stories. The four-star rating reflects its ability to capture the reader’s heart and imagination, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.