Strictly The Worst

Carrie Elks has done it again with Strictly the Worst, another fabulous addition to the Salinger series! As the fifth book in the series, this enemies-to-lovers story surprised me in the best way possible. Normally, I wouldn't gravitate towards a story like this, single mother and slightly younger male lover intrest, but my love for the Salinger series drew me in, and this book did not disappoint.I absolutely loved the characters in this story. Their relationship development was beautifully written, showing growth as they navigated their feelings. The way their personalities played off each other added a rich dynamic that kept me engaged throughout the book. Additionally, seeing snippets of characters from previous books intertwined in this story is a favorite detail of mine.As a New Yorker, I appreciated how this book was set more in Manhattan, adding a familiar and exciting backdrop to the unfolding romance. Although it wasn't as spicy as Strictly Not Yours (still spice tho), the humor and wit of the Salinger brothers had me smiling and laughing. I'm so obsessed with all the Salinger brothers and their character development, and this book was no exception.💥semi SPOILER ALERT💥The epilogue and bonus epilogue were by far my favorite parts! I couldn't sleep after finishing because reading about the characters' futures kept my mind racing. It was the perfect conclusion to an incredible story, leaving me both satisfied and eager for more.I'm seriously excited for Brooks' story, but knowing that the series will soon be over makes me sad. I'm beyond excited to read the final installment, even though it means saying goodbye to my favorite series.

I just love the Salinger brothers! They are a complicated family that somehow works. And each brother is very different but they accept each other for who they are.Lincoln is the 5th brother, and the 1st from their dad’s 3rd wife. He works in PR and travels constantly for his job. He likes things the way they are because he doesn’t have anyone in his life. He is initially attracted to Tessa because she’s the only woman he can think of that doesn’t like him. They coexist for years like this, until their boss gives Tessa’s account to Lincoln. This is where the fun begins!Tessa is a divorced, single mom to a teenage daughter. Her ex left her for the woman he was having an affair with, so she’s not exactly looking for a new man. She’s created a new life for herself and daughter by being independent.I truly liked Tessa, but she was a little skeptical for me.I loved how Linc turned out to be nothing like what Tessa thought he’d be! He wasn’t selfish, arrogant and a playboy. He’s a caring gentleman who truly sees people for who they are. He was so gentle with Tessa, as well as patient. And I loved how well he interacted with Zoe! I was rooting for them to be together!It was absolutely wonderful to visit with all of the Salingers!! It was great to see how they were all doing with their families! And Holden and Blair got married!I loved this book and can’t believe there’s only 1 more Salinger brother left that’s single!