Reviews

You Had Me at Hola by Alexis Daria

halthemonarch's review against another edition

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4.0

Okay, alright, I admit it! I confess! I like romance novels. And authors like Jemisin, Hoang, and Daria have brought me to my knees.
Though the story was predictable, the obstacles weren’t as intense as they seemed in the characters minds (but then, isn’t that like real life in it of itself?), and every other chapter ended with the ring of a cliffhanger like a telenovela about to take a commercial break— I enjoyed it immensely. In my opinion, the characters had chemistry, and though their romance seemed somewhat quick, it was charming how it was pretty much love at first sight for these two. Hell, it’s in the title!

We follow Jasmine, a badass queen making hefa moves, who got her first big break as a leading lady on Carmen in Charge. Although she’s a hopeless romantic ruled by her lady parts (but we forgive her because she’s an Aries and she can’t help it), she’s reeling from fresh heartbreak and pared opposite the quite, polite, somewhat reclusive seasoned movie star who’s daddy as hell. Literally and figuratively. Jasmine’s cousins Ava and Michelle were so great to get to know. I imagined them as Latinx Mai and Ty Lee. And the rest of the surrounding cast, what little we see of them and how slightly they end up effecting the plot, I liked a whole lot. I liked the representation of a they/them person in there, and the inclusion of Vera and conversations about intimacy we all should be having. I liked the little callbacks the book made to its earlier set ups. I liked the scene where Angel shows up at Jasmine’s abuela’s party and they all treat him like family. I like Yariel, and yes it was soooo cheesy? But I got to be a part of that family for a while, at least while reading it. Thank you Alexis Daria for the warm and optimistic read.

heartsdesire's review against another edition

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3.0

1. Love the representation!! YAS.
2. Ashton should work his ass of to make Jasmine happy.
3. Would love to have Jasmine's character and background to be explored more like, somewhat it feels lacking for me. I want special Jasmine in Charge.
4. Love the Spanish dialogues existence!

cad_reads's review against another edition

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funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

⭐⭐⭐ 3.25 Enjoyed, would recommend
🌶️ Rating: 3.5

I recently read this book with a friend, and it was a delightful palate cleanser. I particularly enjoyed how Alexis seamlessly incorporated Spanglish, making it accessible for those who don't speak Spanish to understand the context.

The story revolves around Jasmine and Ashton, two movie actors working together while trying to resist falling for each other. When the book shifts to the scenes they are filming, it feels like you're reading a story within a story, focusing on their characters rather than the actors themselves. This narrative technique gave the book a charming "Jane the Virgin" vibe that I absolutely loved.

While the romance is described as a slow-burn, it doesn't quite feel that way—in a good sense. If you're in the mood for a light-hearted, romantic comedy, this book is a perfect choice.

kimberlyy_'s review against another edition

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funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

ashs_books's review against another edition

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5.0

I absolutely adored You Had Me At Hola!

hollyinthehumanities's review against another edition

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hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

bea_13's review against another edition

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4.0

I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet and romantic love story that made me feel happy and gooey. The aspect of the tv show and the characters was really interested and I liked hearing about the plot of the show and how the characters were feeling. It was a super inclusive book that dealt with big topics of self discovery and especially inclusion for Latinex people in mainstream media. All around I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend

sarahgee76's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.75

maryanne07's review against another edition

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

lizerature's review against another edition

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5.0

I’m obsessed with this book!! Jasmine and Ashton are two telenovela stars who are also just two emotional softies who want love. They’re both incredibly down to earth, and absolutely perfect for each other. I loved that this romance was less about big gestures and more about falling in love during the small moments. It contrasted beautifully with the chaos of their lives.

I also really enjoyed all of the family dynamics in this one. It reminded me of my own. The fact that Jasmine can’t speak a ton of Spanish really spoke to me, because my Tagalog is rough