That's Lovely


Romance - General
370 Pages
Reviewed on 04/24/2025
Buy on Amazon

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.

Author Biography

Toni McBride was born into a delightful mix of British wit and Southern hospitality. Her unique perspective comes from her rich family heritage: a mother from Manchester, England, who was a passionate advocate in the Disarmament Protests, and a father from Birmingham, Alabama, who made his mark in the Civil Rights Movement. She now finds herself living in New Jersey, perfectly nestled between the vibrant cities of Philadelphia and New York City.

A loving wife and mother of two, her journey led her to Rutgers University and then to a career in education. When she’s not busy inspiring her students, savoring family time, or enjoying the beautiful chaos of life, Toni loves escaping into the world of her characters. Toni’s stories are a heartfelt blend of humor, romance, and the occasional twist. She draws from her diverse background and observations of daily life to weave stories that reflect her own belief in the power of true love and how both magical and wonderfully unpredictable it can be.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

That’s Lovely by Toni McBride explores ambition, family, and unexpected romance set against the backdrop of a successful nightclub. The story centers around Samantha, a fiercely independent woman who runs a business with her brother, Jonathan, and his best friend, Gabe. The narrative balances humor, tension, and emotional depth, creating an engaging story. The romantic subplot begins with the arrival of Andrew, a charismatic DJ whose hiring by Jonathan and Gabe generates immediate tension with Samantha. Their interactions are filled with chemistry as Samantha’s initial skepticism and resistance slowly transform into curiosity and deeper feelings. McBride captures this progression with a subtle touch, allowing the romance to unfold naturally alongside the rest of the story elements.

Samantha’s voice is sharp, witty, and authentic, drawing readers into her world as she navigates the complexities of sibling partnerships and professional challenges. Her interactions with Jonathan and Gabe engage in playful banter and family affection while revealing the tensions that can emerge when business and personal relationships intertwine. Toni McBride’s descriptions bring the nightclub to life, immersing readers in its music, atmosphere, and the challenges of running such a high-pressure business. This attention to detail adds authenticity to the narrative and anchors the story in a vivid, believable world. That’s Lovely is about the resilience, growth, and unexpected joys that can arise when life’s plans take an unforeseen turn. McBride’s engaging storytelling and authentic characters make this a book that will appeal to anyone who has ever balanced ambition, family, and the pursuit of happiness.

K.C. Finn

That's Lovely by Toni McBride delves into the complexities of modern romance through the story of Samantha, a fiercely independent woman who has built careful walls around her heart. When Andrew, a charismatic DJ with an infectious smile, enters her life, those defenses begin to crack despite her best efforts to maintain them. Their journey together explores the delicate balance between chemistry and trust as both characters navigate past hurts and present fears. The story unfolds in a contemporary setting that is authentic and relevant, addressing the very real challenges of opening oneself to love in a world where connection often feels risky.

Author Toni McBride's romance stands out for its emotional authenticity and the sheer depth of feeling that Samatha and Andrew develop through the emotionally complex plot. I particularly connected with her portrayal of Samantha's internal struggle between maintaining independence and allowing herself to be vulnerable. The dialogue crackles with wit and charm while revealing deeper truths about relationships and self-protection, and I enjoyed Samantha's interplay with Andrew and his sharp, charismatic lines. McBride shows skill in developing Andrew's character beyond typical romantic lead tropes, giving him layers that make his separate journey toward emotional openness feel equally compelling too. There are also plenty of other well-developed supporting characters to enhance the story without overshadowing the central relationship. The pacing allows the romance to develop naturally through both lighter moments and more serious conversations. McBride's warm and lyrical writing style also maintains a perfect balance between humor and heart, making the emotional payoffs earned and genuine. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend That's Lovely to readers seeking a romance that offers both entertainment and emotional depth.