Thank you to @readforeverPub and @netgalley with providing me with an eARC. Wow. This is the authors third book and I can say that I’ve enjoyed all of them. It’s safe to saw that I am a huge Abby Jimenez fan.
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“There are people you can know for a lifetime and they never get into your heart. And then there are those who are already inside it, before you ever even lay eyes on them”.- Abby Jimenez, Life’s too Short
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Life’s too Short features Adrian Copeland who is Josh’s cousin from The Friend Zone. He also made a brief appearance in The Happy Ever After Playlist but this can be read as a stand alone. We do get a cool appearance featuring the other couples. In this book, Vanessa happens to be Adrians neighbor who he meets late at night after her baby is up crying. He goes to knock and he eventually makes his way into her place and he not only offers to hold baby Grace while Vanessa showers but also puts her to sleep. Totally swoon worthy. There is just something about guys who are good with kids. Anyway, Vanessa is a YouTube/ Travel Blogger who happens to have a big following.
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This friends to lovers romance will make you laugh, melt ( because cute baby), and maybe shed a few tears. Overall, it’ll just make you feel good. I adored their friendship and how he not only embraced Vanessa but also her niece/baby who she is taking care of. On top of that, he also starts to foster an old toothless diaper wearing chihuahua. Again, Adrian is total Book Boyfriend Material. Vanessa was his perfect match. She helps him enjoy the little things in life. Vanessa is worried she carries the gene for ALS (her grandma, mom and sister had it) so she has made it her life’s mission to advocate for ALS and also prepare if she ever starts showing symptoms. I think everyone can learn something from this book. Whether it’s to embrace life and the little things or forgiveness.
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“You are the flood Vanessa. Seeping and then pouring, washing away everything that I used to think mattered and then filling me up to the top until I’m drowned in nothing but you”

As with The Happy Ever After Playlist, I absolutely loved this book! Great characters and plenty of spark. The addition of some deeper issues with the family only made this more enjoyable. Highly recommend this book along with Happy Ever After Playlist.

Abby Jimenez never disappoints. Adrian and Vanessa were so immensely lovable, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning - which is relatively rare for me with romances! I also love a grand gesture, and that's all I'll say to avoid spoilers....

Life's Too Short by Abby Jimenez  #jaylammreviews
“I drink the wine, even if the only thing I'm celebrating is the fact that it's Tuesday.”

Oh Jimenez knows how to write some characters! I was immediately charmed by Vanessa and Adrian. Their chemistry, their easy friendship- it was so rich and full. I couldn't get enough of them!

This story is so beautiful because it is about two people who don't even realize how much they need someone they can count on in their life. They find each other at the perfect time and their relationship builds naturally. Their circumstances and where life has led them can be hard to stomach but they find comfort in each other. 

This book took my emotions on a roller coaster! A book that can make me laugh and cry is an instant favorite.

Each time I read a book written by Abby Jimenez, I come away surprised with just how much I loved the story. At this point, I have to stop being surprised because Abby consistently writes an amazingly profound story mixed with emotion and humour.

I loved all of the elements of this novel and how extremely different it was from what I see in a similar market. From the main character being a Youtube phenomenon to the complex family dynamics it was an extremely unique novel. You would not think all of this would mix and have a place in contemporary fiction but it did! All of the 'issues' within the storyline were REAL and read as if they were occurring to REAL LIFE PEOPLE. It was perfect. *chef kiss*

Not only was this novel immensely enjoyable but it's also a message on living (not just surviving) that we could all learn from.

***Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***

Thank you @readforeverpub and @netgalley for the review copy of Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez publishing April 6/21.

This is a highly personal review so take that in mind when deciding to read this one for yourself. Vanessa’s family has a genetic version of ALS in it’s history. She watched her sister die of the disease and realizes she could be next. She decides to live what life she may or not have to the fullest and becomes a travel YouTube star raising money for ALS research. When her sister leaves her baby with her and never returns, she is suddenly at home. Her neighbour Adrian comes over when the baby keeps him awake all night and they instantly have a connection. Closed door friendship to romance builds and it’s adorable.
Here is the personal side to it all though, I found this one hard for me to read. Vanessa has a lot of medical dread. She lives her whole life like she is going to get ALS without really knowing if she will have it. And I think she spends a lot of energy and time pretending like it doesn’t matter. But there are a few times when the extend of that dread comes to the surface, and I found those hard for me to read. I have a lot as well, I have a chronic illness with no cure. It is in remission now, but every time even a hint of symptoms flare up, my mind works overtime worrying about what could happen. I found that anxiety came up a lot for me while I was seeing Vanessa go through it and have it sometimes be minimized. So I can’t say I enjoyed reading this book, but I would think that is a subjective reason and there will be plenty of glowing reviews from others over the next few weeks!

This is the third installment in the Friend Zone series, and I think it might be my favorite yet. While it’s been a year since I’ve read the first two, so maybe I am seeing this one through rose colored glasses, I thought book one was absolutely hysterical, book two was very sweet, and book three is the heaviest and maybe even the best. They’re all funny, they’re all sweet, and they’re all deep, but this one was definitely in a league of its own. This one made me cry more than once, which is rare (but I also laughed out loud multiple times, too).

All three of these books could be read as standalones, but they’re all connected. Adrian is Josh’s cousin, and the characters from books one and two make a quick cameo. Vanessa has a 50/50 chance of carrying the gene that causes ALS, and chooses not to let this hold her back or to dwell. The potential of this disease striking combined with the impossibility of predicting her future, makes this absolutely gut-wrenching. It will cause you to cruise through this book quickly to find out what happens, and if you’re someone who reads the last page first (you know who you are), you’ll definitely sneak a peek. I’m someone who has to cover the next page so I don’t accidentally see what happens, but I absolutely had to know what was going to happen and how this one was going to end, so I finished it as quickly as possible.

This author is incredibly talented; she is quick-witted and develops characters in a way that you’re rooting for them all, and I am delighted to see that her next book will be out next spring. I cannot wait. If you haven’t read this series yet, you’re missing out!

TW: loss of a sibling, loss of a parent, ALS, drug abuse, parent neglect/abandonment, hoarding

This was such a wonderful read. An emotional story with warm, vibrant characters. A book with humor, at times sadness, but ultimately love and hope. This was just what I needed to pull me out of my book slump. Highly recommended to anyone who reads contemporary romance, and chick-lit I would think as well.

I've liked both of Abby Jimenez's previous romance novels, and this was definitely another solid story. Vanessa is a YouTuber with a 50% change of getting ALS who is suddenly fostering her niece who has been abandoned by her mother, Vanessa's 19 year old sister who has major addiction issues. The story begins when Adrian, her super hot lawyer next-door neighbor, knocks on her door at 4am because his girlfriend is complaining about the noise. He ends up holding and comforting the baby (Grace) while Vanessa gets a few minutes to herself to take a shower and take a moment. Adrian's girlfriend suddenly reveals to him that she's actually married and she bails. Instead of throwing himself into work (as he usually does), Adrian starts to spend more and more time with Vanessa and Grace, and they strike up a friendship laced with mutual attraction that eventually comes to light. As with so many contemporary romance novels, there's a major misunderstanding that could be solved by a single conversation, but what makes it interesting here is that neither of them realizes that they need to have the conversation. Vanessa thinks that Adrian has watched her videos and is aware of her 50% chance of ALS, and the fact that her mother, grandmother, and sister all had it and died before 30. Adrian has NOT watched all of her videos, thinks that her sister had it but that since ALS is usually random, there's no reason for her to think she'll get it. When he does find out, he issues an ultimatum to Vanessa about seeking treatment (which she has already decided not to do, as treatments only prolong life briefly and tend to have terrible side effects). Like with Jimenez's first two novels, this one does the usually happily ever after, but there's some heavy stuff to get through before that. Vanessa's father has OCD and is a hoarder who has already been cited by the police, her sister is the aforementioned young mom on the run with substance abuse issues, and of course Vanessa is constantly aware of the numbness in her hand that seem to be an early indicator of ALS. All of this is handled deftly and delicately, something that I appreciate about Jimenez as an author.

She’s done it again! Abby Jimenez has scored a hat trick with this, her third book in the Friend Zone series ( any of which can be read alone). This author has written another highly readable romcom that blends romance and humor while tackling deep issues of addiction, terminal illness, grief and depression. Vanessa, a travel vlogger who lives everyday to the fullest meets her neighbor Adrian, a defense attorney workaholic in a hilariously unique meet cute. A strong friendship develops and evolves into a heart warming love story. Difficult subjects are handled sensitively with grace and humor while conveying the importance of living life in the now. The emotional journey for the reader is filled with great characters, witty banter, sass, emotion and inspiration. Vanessa’s passion for life provided a timely reminder that dwelling on a gloomy future will rob you of the present. Must read for romcom fans. Life’s too short- so read this now!
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

I loved Jimenez's other two books and I enjoyed this one, but it did fall slighty short (although the bar is set pretty high). I liked Adrian and Vanessa, but the amount of time they spent not talking about them developing feelings for each other was far too long. They both kept insisting they were just friends, but this was simply because they weren't communicating (this drives me nuts in books, but it may be personal preference).

Vanessa is dealing with the fact that she may have ALS. Adrian has family issues and is a workaholic. He also suffers panic attacks with regard to flying. Yet, neither is unwilling to seek help in any form for their various issues. Despite that, the pair hit if off (as friends) immediately. Which clearly turns into more...

The pair has their share of issues, and then add a baby to the mix. However, said baby seems to not be a factor after the first third of the book. Instead of dealing with sleepless nights and taking care of a tiny human, Vanessa (and Adrian) live their life of work, going to restaurants, clubs, making social media posts, etc. The ending was predictable, but I'm ok with that for a romance book. Overall it was good and I'll certainly read #4 next year!

Such a heartwarming story, I devour it.This was so lovely and captivating story.It was also intense.I loved both characters.

Vanessa & Adrian were such loveable characters , they were opposites but they developed a strong friendship and then into more.Life’s Too Short will take you on an emotional journey .

"You've never -- are you serious? Where have you been? How do you understand memes?"

It has one of my favorite tropes friends to lovers.I love this series so much!I can't wait to see what she will have for us next.

Well, Abby Jimenez, has done it again. I have fallen in love with this couple in the most charming way.

Life's Too Short is full of humor, sweet moments, and awareness. We only have one life to live and you have to make a decision on how you want to live it.

For Vanessa Price, the answer is simple. She wants to live in the now and in the fullest way possible. She wants to travel and do things that make her happy. She has lost loved ones and with her sister's death, she knew she had to make a change.

Vanessa quits her job, cashes in her savings, began a Youtube channel, and went on living. Now, she has loyal followers in the millions who support her (for the most part). Then, her traveling ceases completely when her half-sister falls into drugs again and Vanessa must take care of her niece until she is clean again.

Adrian Copeland is a lawyer. He owns the building where Vanessa lives and he's her neighbor. When a child's constant crying interferes with his night, he will knock on Vanessa's door for the first time. Vanessa looks overwhelmed with a crying child in her arms, and Adrian will offer to help her while she cleans up. After this exchange, a friendship will blossom until they realize they want more from each other.

Can they take the next step?

I love how Abby Jimenez introduced these two characters. Everything that they did together that included the baby and the dog was wonderful. I laughed so much reading it but I also shed a few tears.

Life is Too Short is wonderful in all the ways that matter and Abby Jimenez has become one of my must-read authors.

Cliffhanger: No

4/5 Fangs

A complimentary copy was provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Book Thoughts...⁣
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An effervescent romantic comedy about taking chances, living life to the fullest, and how love can overcome anything. Life’s Too Short follows Vanessa, a famous traveling YouTuber who doesn’t know whether she shares the same genetic disease ALS as her late mother and sister. Living each day to its fullest, Vanessa suddenly finds herself facing a new challenge: motherhood. When her addicted half sister abandons her child and Vanessa is appointed her legal guardian, it throws her life plans of seeing everything there is to see in the world for a loop. Overwhelmed with a baby that won’t stop crying, Vanessa is at her wit’s end.⁣
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Enter Adrian Copeland. The heat and antics that follow made this book such a page turner. ⁣
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I absolutely loved the first two books in this series and while this one was my least favorite (few far-fetched occurrences, plus a baby that easy doesn't actually exist) it was still an absolute delight to read. It had all the elements that I have come to expect from Jimenez: witty banter, hilarious moments, and the best sexual tension around!⁣
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Thank you @netgalley and @readforeverpub for this free copy in exchange for my honest review. Life's Too Short is out this Tuesday the 6th! ⁣
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Happy Easter to those that celebrate

I genuinely don’t even know what to say about this book. I’ve been sobbing for the last hour. I wasn’t prepared for this story at ALL.

To form a coherent thought, Vanessa wasn’t my *favorite* main character. She seemed a bit like she thought higher of herself; quick to point out Adrian’s flaws and not see her own. But putting this aside, I still really enjoyed this book. Any ill (no pun intended) feelings I had toward Vanessa were more than made up for by sweet Adrian. He’s the dream, that’s all I can say.

All in all, this was a great story with a message everyone needs to hear. Life’s Too Short, so let’s live it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for an e-arc of this title!

Wow. Just wow.
This book. Wow. Just do yourself a favor and make sure to download this one. It’s deals with a lot of painful issues but Abby brings a refreshing take. There were moments of tears, frustration but also so much laughter and love. I enjoyed this so much. Abby has a reader for life.

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC,

Just like Abby’s other two books, Life’s Too Short was such a great, fun yet thought provoking and profound book.
It definitely made me think how short life really is, and how as humans we are constantly rushing thinking ahead, and we just don’t spend enough time in the now to just be still and enjoy the moment we are in.

It was a great story. The characters were so entertaining and they brought so much charm and fun to the story.

Life’s Too Short is an emotional and humorous romance raising awareness for ALS. Vanessa is a popular travel YouTube vlogger raising awareness for ALS. She is now raising her niece, so she is adjusting to parenting and staying at home. Adrian is a lawyer that is always working. One night when the baby won’t stop crying, Adrian goes over to complain which starts their friendship. I loved watching their friendship progress. Neither of them wants anything more than friendship. I learned about hereditary ALS and how terrifying it is for the family to always worry. Life’s Too Short is a cute romance with a great story and many funny moments. There are many serious issues though throughout the book like addiction, ALS, and unwanted pregnancy. Life’s Too Short is the third book in The Friend Zone series but can be read as a standalone. There is one scene with the main characters from the previous novels and a few mentions throughout the book. I highly recommend reading the whole series starting with The Friend Zone. I loved Life’s Too Short and love The Friend Zone series. Life’s Too Short is a story of friendship, family, love, and overcoming fears.

Thank you Forever and NetGalley for Life’s Too Short.

I can’t give enough praise to this book. It is swoon worthy and full of so much heart. This book lives up to the hype that is centered around Abby’s previous books.

Vanessa is down to earth and totally relatable, even while being YouTube famous. Adrian is successful and book boyfriend worthy. I loved their chemistry and the friendship they created. The banter was flirtatious and steamy.

I cried several times while reading this book and loved every minute of it. I can’t recommend this book enough to romcom lovers.

Thank you to Netgalley, Forever Publishing, and Abby Jimenez for this e-book in exchange for my honest review.

All the stars for this funny rom com that packs some serious emotion too! Vanessa and Adrian’s story will make you laugh, swoon, and cry and have you rooting for their happily ever after. Vanessa has familial ALS in her family and is living every day like it’s her last, while Adrian is a planner and workaholic. When these two neighbors meet, it’s the perfect combo of sparks and charm! Jimenez knocks this one out of the park! The characters, the banter, the plot twists, and the ending..... a true rom com masterpiece!