Lauren Kate delivered a rock solid romance in By Any Other Name, a story that not only paid homage to true love and all things literary, but to family and friendship as well ... What a wonderful blend of humor, touching moments, sadness, hope, and pure love Lauren Kate used in this unique novel–and oh, that ending! It was a story insightful in a way that had me reading certain passages over again to let the depth of the emotions sink in. And there were even some sentimental scenes that will likely find readers a bit misty-eyed. But it was the book(s) within a book that really brought everything together for me, while our heroine Lanie worked with her client–best-selling author Noa–to cure a bout of writer’s block.
By Any Other Name is one of those romance novels that is completely sweet and, although predictable, pleasingly so. Lanie is a likable character whom readers will, for obvious reasons, adore. Some may find the romance plot too slow to get off the ground, with little to no time to see Lanie partner up with the new man in her life. But the book is, in a way, as much about self-discovery and reckoning with the past as it is about romantic love.
... a charming, witty tale set in the publishing world ... Among this love story’s many charms is one of the most romantic proposals in the rom-com genre.
Kate’s second adult novel thoughtfully explores the notion of living bravely and taking risks in love, but it’s weighed down early on with multiple flashback scenes that overwhelm an already short page count. A few more chapters could have tended to open-ended side plots or given Noah more room to express himself as an individual outside of his pseudonym and Lanie’s love interest. A sweet, literary rom-com that excels in self-realization but falters with a rushed resolution.
... a delightful rom-com that begs to be devoured in one sitting ... Most readers won’t be surprised to discover the reason Noa is so reclusive, but this doesn’t take away from enjoying the slow burning central relationship. Kate surrounds both Noa and Lanie with well-drawn friends and family who add welcome backstory and create a sense that these are two people with full lives outside of each other meeting in the middle. The result is both smart and adorable.
