Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

New Amsterdam: Julia

Rate this book
Julia Pierce is a popular wedding columnist for a highly-respected NYC newspaper. She creates modern fairy tales by penning editorials about wealthy couples and their fantasy wedding venues. Cautious and cynical, her romantic life is anything but spectacular, but true love is closer than she realizes.

201 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 9, 2016

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Ashley Pullo

14 books176 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
36 (64%)
4 stars
15 (26%)
3 stars
3 (5%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Hilaria Alexander.
Author 14 books211 followers
March 11, 2016
One of my favorite things about the Indie Community is discovering writers with unique voices. Ashley Pullo is definitely one of them. I adore what she's accomplished with her New Amsterdam stories. Inspired by Humans of New York and the city where she lives, Ashley has crafted beautiful stories, pretty like hand-drawn postcards. Her characters are unique, yet normal. They have cool careers and are funny and smart, but like many of us, have a few problems trying to find their half in the busy and thriving lower Manhattan.
Julia Pierce has long been disenchanted about love and all things marriage. Ironically, she's one of the most sought-after wedding journalists. Theo Barnes is Julia's neighbor and sometimes dog-sitter. Terribly smart and handsome, Theo will steal your heart. Julia and Theo's story is interwoven with the ones of other characters that will appear in future installments of the New Amsterdam series. I won't say more and I'll let you discover this little gem on your own.
Profile Image for Beth.
184 reviews6 followers
February 29, 2016
It was Like Being Inside My Favorite Romance Movie

Julia, the second book in Ashley Pullo's New Amsterdam series, is a charming, uplifting and sentimental romance full of beautiful, descriptive imagery and fun, relatable characters. This book was just pure fun to read and gave me such an euphoric feeling when I finished it. It reminded me of one of my favorite romance movies. There are some great descriptions and explanations from the characters on what men and women want out of love in today's world.

Pullo never disappoints with her descriptive imagery, which transports me right into every scene. She has the unique ability to make me feel like I'm watching a movie unfold while reading. She does a fantastic job creating a charming setting, which fits the tone of the book. No one can write New York City like this author. She makes it a physical character in all her novels and Julia is no exception.

Every day characters are another Pullo trait. She creates a likable heroine, named Julia, who is a popular wedding columnist. She is a bit of a cynic about love. Combine that with with a geeky, adorable and sexy hero named Theo who lives across the hall and you get such fun interactions which had me smiling in every scene. Theo is a special hero in that he blows away the stereotype that you have to have an alpha male to make a romance book interesting. This isn't the case here. Theo is is a perfect combination of quirky, goofy and smart all wrapped up in a super sexy package. I have to say that Julia and Theo's first date is truly a memorable one that's just lovely and fun. Add in Julia's dog, Fletch, and you have romantic-comedy gold. Additionally, I really enjoyed the interactions between Julia and her best friend Meredith. They made me laugh and cry and I was truly touched by their affection for one another.

Julia was probably one of my favorite books by this author. Pullo gives the reader a very enjoyable, satisfying romance that is unique in structure, while maintaining a down-to-earth plot and setting which is relatable to any reader. A truly lovely romance that had me wanting to hug my Kindle at the end.

While Julia is the second book in this series, it is not necessary to read Tess first. Julia can be read as a standalone story.

An advanced reader's copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.


Profile Image for Teresa.
1,048 reviews35 followers
April 13, 2016
A story about the humble, earnest, goofy guy next door and his wedding journalist neighbor who isn't so keen on the weddings part. This is a friends-to-lovers story of the most realistic and beautiful kind.

I read this book in one sitting because I simply did not want to leave the world where Theo, Julia and her dog Fletch were living. I wanted to move into their building, hang out on their rooftop, walk her dog, get bubble tea with Theo, and go for coffee with Meredith and Julia. Ashley creates characters and settings that are unique, realistic, and original. This series was inspired by Brandon Stanton's Humans of New York blog and it accomplishes similar things. I feel like, as a person who has only been to New York twice, I got to experience the real New York, not the traveler's guide to New York, and meet the real people who live there.

One of my favorite things about an Ashley Pullo book is how I'm instantly drawn into the book from the very first page. I usually need a little time to settle in with the characters or writing style of a book, but I am always immersed into the world Ashley creates from the very first page. Theo and Julia's dialogue left me giddy and euphoric. This book was as unique as the gorgeous cover.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
320 reviews206 followers
March 14, 2016
Author Ashley Pullo can do no wrong. I absolutely adore her books and she's a one click author for me. No one can write about NYC the way Ashley can, and she proves it again in Julia.

Julia is the popular wedding columnist for a well known New York City newspaper. As she attends weddings in NYC and even out on Shelter Island for her job, she's also falling for her cute and funny neighbor Theo. Both Julia and Theo have pasts that have them fear abandonment in their current relationships, but have no fear, there's not too much angst in this story. Their relationship is sweet, funny and sexy too!

What I found most interesting about the book, is how much I loved the secondary characters, Meredith and Bradley. Their wedding storyline was very captivating and I was just as invested in them as I was in Julia and Theo.

This is a quick, sweet, and romantic love story, and I highly recommend for anyone that loves a storyline that takes place in NYC.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,435 reviews415 followers
April 29, 2018
Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads.

Once again, Ashley Pullo wrote something utterly magical. Julia (the book) was perfectly adorable and charming and I read it in about an hour. I couldn't flip the pages of this one quickly enough. I was so enamored with Julia and Theo and every other aspect of this novella, if I'm being honest. It was exactly what I needed in my life when I read it. 

Everything about Julia (the book) worked for me. I loved the characters and their development. The story totally sucked me in and gave me all kinds of heart eyes. It was romantic and fun and I loved the New York City setting nearly as much as I did the characters. Just thinking about this novella makes me smile. 

FAVORITE QUOTES

Because Theo and Julia are simply characters within the bigger story — guests at a wedding, assimilated residents of a vibrant city, and specks of light under a dark sky.
Profile Image for Patricia .
317 reviews50 followers
March 11, 2016
A brilliantly crafted story of friendship, love and the utopia where the two converge.

I was captivated by these characters and the witty banter that graced the pages of this charming story. Pullo does a fantastic job of producing characters you can’t help but love and engaging stories full of heart. But the exceptional way she depicts the setting adds a unique touch facilitating a full escape into the world of her stories.

I adored Julia and Theo. Their banter was fun and their chemistry was exciting but their respective stories were beautiful albeit heartbreaking. The selfless way they stepped up for a friend in need warmed my heart and solidified my love for them.

This story may be short in length but it’s rich in substance. This is the second installment in the New Amsterdam series and I am eagerly awaiting the third, Darby, Release Day TBA.
Profile Image for S.L. Scott.
Author 74 books4,594 followers
April 1, 2016
I love Pullo's writing so it was not surprise that I love this story. From the unique way she kicks off every story to how she entangle's the character's lives - I'm fascinated and find Pullo to have such an original twist on modern romances as well as storytelling. The books in the New Amsterdam series not only have stunning covers, but creative and entertaining stories. Loved this book!
Profile Image for Amy.
95 reviews8 followers
March 9, 2016
This is the second installment in the new series, New Amsterdam. Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book, which featured Tess, I was very anxious to read this newest story. What a pleasure it is, to sit down and read about these characters and this wonderful city! What a fantastic job Ms. Pullo does, developing characters who are so entertaining! She has also just about convinced me that I want to move to the Big Apple...and that is a BIG statement coming from this tried and true Texas girl. I have visited the City That Never Sleeps just one time, but I feel as though I am right back there when I read an Ashley Pullo novel. Her love of this city is abundantly clear.

As with the first book, the lay-out of the story is very similar to watching your favorite romantic comedy. The author also maintained the aspect that pays homage to Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton. It is really a brilliant and well-executed idea! Julia and Theo were just the perfect blend of sexy, smart, and sweet. I loved watching their love grow.

The laugh-right-out-loud moments were countless. Gosh, my life needs some spice! There is a very lively cast of characters in New Amsterdam: Julia. They were quick-witted and clever without being intellectual snobs. Each individual was well-drawn and FULL of charm (with the exception of one or two necessary "less than stellar dudes"). I was easily able to imagine hanging out with these people. There is that great temptation to pack-up and move to NYC and find these people! Also, I need the bagels and New York pizza in my life. Need them. I did have favorites...my number one favorite being the delicious and divine Bradley. Bradley is a hot and snarky surprise, wrapped-up in a SUIT, ladies! (faints a little) Bradley is not even the main hero in the story! There were a few peripheral/secondary characters who I am really hoping will be featured in future books in this series. I just bet they are! ;)

Were I to define what are the most important aspects in any work of fiction (for me), those would be humor, authenticity of characters, and believable scenarios. I read to be entertained and disappear from the housework, bills, and real people...just for a little bit (keep the undies untwisted, real people!). I have come to know that I can count on those most important aspects with anything this author writes. What a lovely escape!

I won't bore you by reiterating the synopsis of the book...you can read a back cover! I will tell you that weddings played a feature role. My daughter is getting married in one year; and, we have begun the mad, crazy adventure of planning the wedding. As I was reading this book, I found myself praying, "Dear Lord, please don't let us have too much drama!!!!!" So far, so good. While the story line was not terribly unique, the flavor that is Ashley Pullo's voice was what sets this one apart. I adore her voice! I will now anxiously await the third book in the New Amsterdam series.

A great big, huge hug and thank you to Ashley Pullo for allowing me to read an ARC in return for my honest to goodness true review. It was my great pleasure to both read and review your adorable book!
Profile Image for Aubrey .
151 reviews7 followers
March 11, 2016
Another beautiful book by Ashley Pullo. She has such a unique way of telling a story. There's so much sensory involvement. You can see, taste, smell, and feel what the characters do, and you feel like a part of their world. Julia, the second book in her New Amsterdam series, is told from third person POV, which is not my usual liking, but Ashley writes in such a beautiful way that it works for me. She allows you to really get to know the characters in depth. The story focuses on Julia and the relationships she has with the other characters, but we get a glimpse into the lives of those around her as well, and how they come to be in Julia's life. Much like Levi from Tess, the hero, Theo, is a dreamboat. He's her geeky, yet sexy neighbor who is so humble, he has no idea the effect he has on Julia and her imagination. After accompanying her to a work event one evening, the spark between the two ignites. This friends to lovers story is so authentic, it reminds me of my own relationship. It's the best kind of relationship in my opinion. So beautiful and real. They're goofy flirtation and attraction to one another is undeniable. You can't help but root for them as if your desire for them to be together can fuel their own desire. Again, like Tess, it's not just a love story. It's about friends, family, and Julia learning that she doesn't have bad luck in dating; she just hasn't met the right guy. Until she does. Julia is a laugh out loud, charming, sexy story that I couldn't put down. I can't wait for Darby, the third installment of Ashley's New Amsterdam series.

Merged review:

A gorgeous story!

Another beautiful book by Ashley Pullo. She has such a unique way of telling a story. There's so much sensory involvement. You can see, taste, smell, and feel what the characters do, and you feel like a part of their world. Julia, the second book in her New Amsterdam series, is told from third person POV, which is not my usual liking, but Ashley writes in such a beautiful way that it works for me. She allows you really get to know the characters in depth. The story focuses on Julia and the relationships she has with the other characters, but we get a glimpse into the lives of those around her as well, and how they come to be in Julia's life. Much like Levi from Tess, the hero, Theo, is a dreamboat. He's her geeky, yet sexy neighbor who is so humble, he has no idea the effect he has on Julia and her imagination. After accompanying her to a work event one evening, the spark between the two ignites. This friends to lovers story is so authentic, it reminds me of my own relationship. It's the best kind of relationship in my opinion. So beautiful and real. They're goofy flirtation and attraction to one another is undeniable. You can't help but root for them as if your desire for them to be together can fuel their own desire. Again, like Tess, it's not just a love story. It's about friends, family, and Julia learning that she doesn't have bad luck in dating; she just hasn't met the right guy. Until she does. Julia is a laugh out loud, charming, sexy story that I couldn't put down. I can't wait for Darby, the third and final installment of Ashley's New Amsterdam series.
Profile Image for Brenna.
222 reviews8 followers
March 17, 2016
Ashley Pullo hit another one out of the ballpark with Julia, the latest novella in her New Amsterdam series. Looking back, I wish that I would have forced myself to slow down a little when I read it. However, I believe that's the mark of an exceptional story-teller: making the reader want to take in as much as possible as quickly as possible. This is something I anticipate reading multiple times, and am positive each time I do, my eyes will be opened to a detail that I didn't notice before. Pullo's impeccable attention to detail is unlike many authors I've encountered.

Her writing is always fresh, witty, descriptive, and transports you into the lives of her characters and the setting effortlessly. Above all else, Pullo's characters are so real. They come with flaws. They come with baggage. They come with life experiences. They come with heart. They come together in the most natural way. And sometimes, if we're lucky, we get glimpses of our past favorite characters as well as those whose stories are yet to be written.

Theo Barnes may be my new favorite Pullo character. He is goofy, quirky, sarcastic; the epitome of one whose boy-next-door looks are catapulted to a swoon-worthy status through an unparalleled personality. I fell in "book love" with Mr. Theo Barnes. The one-liners and constant laughs that Pullo provides the reader with will endear him to anyone who flips (or swipes) through Julia's pages. I wanted to reach into the story and be Julia.
As I write this, I know that I haven't touched much on the namesake of the story...but I believe Theo stole the show (and my heart)!

Not only are the primary characters (including Julia Pierce) well-developed, the secondary ones are as well. The reader can feel the importance of every character written- there are no "afterthoughts" in Ashley Pullo's books. They are all written with purpose and meaning, and the heart of the author shines through her every word and description of them.

There's just something about Pullo's books that draws me in and keeps me wanting more and more of her work. She's got such a unique style and voice that I appreciate, respect, and enjoy. Part of me wants to keep her to myself (sort of like my hidden gem), but I know that every reader needs to experience her written magic, so I want to shout from the rooftops..."READ THIS BOOK!" and if you haven't read any of her others...what are you waiting for?!

Thank you, Ms. Pullo, for transporting me right into the heart of New York, as one of its humans.
Profile Image for Christina.
1,404 reviews103 followers
March 3, 2016
Having Julia Pierce attend and report your wedding day is as much of a status symbol as a young, wealthy couple can hope for in New York City. But what the public doesn’t know about their beloved columnist is the disaster that is her own love life, a history of failed relationships that has left her cynical and incapable of pursuing her own happily ever after.

Enter Theo Barnes, the quirky software developer next door (literally). Theo has his own baggage to deal with, but he’s more than willing to leave it behind in order to pursue the natural beauty Julia, to break through the wall she’s built around her heart.

It’s Julia’s beloved Boston Terrier Fletch that brings the two of them together closer, of all things. And when Julia invites Theo to one of the weddings she’s covering the sparks fly. But can Julia move past the one relationship that broke her for all others? Or will she let the potential for happiness pass her by because she isn’t willing to put her heart on the line?

There is a popular term in media known as the Easter Egg. It is an inside joke or reference that you have to either look for or be familiar with the creator’s works in order to understand it. Pullo is a master of this, with recurring characters or themes that elicit a feeling of intimacy within the enormity of the city of New York; that there really is only six degrees of separation.

This familiarity draws the reader into the story, much like a viewer watching the show Friends. The characters are everyday people; no chiseled abs or supermodel good looks, but relatable, endearing characters that could easily be our friends or neighbors.

The second in a series of novellas, Julia can be read as a standalone, but I strongly encourage you to read Tess (the first) as well. Julia is a book that is easily devoured in one sitting and it will only leave you wanting more. With the intro that we’re given into the next book in the series, Darby, I have great confidence that Pullo will again create a story that provides an extraordinary look into the lives of everyday New Yorkers.

Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Laurie.
976 reviews50 followers
March 14, 2016
My name is Laurie and I am addicted to newspaper wedding announcements.

I’ve always loved to read wedding stories because I truly believe that there is someone for everyone -- marriage never has an age limit and that there is beauty in the second, third or even fourth chance at love and marriage. I am also intrigued by what brought two people together – was it a twist of fate? A friend? Nana’s nudge? Work? A swipe? And then most importantly -- when did they know this would be forever? We know these stories don’t write themselves and in Julia Pierce, we get the perspective of the person charged with sharing them in her very popular column. Weddings are big business and Julia’s column feeds the beast.

Julia is guarded and maybe a touch jaded – she has her reasons. There is such a natural progression for her that never felt forced. The more we learn, the more we understand her. She knows – it is about the couple – the only two people who really matter. The wedding is just window dressing and in that span of time, it’s understanding that the little moments are what fill the space – the ability to make each other laugh. Knowing how they take their coffee. Believing that they are worthy of tears, a certain amount of pain and all the LOVE.

Theo Barnes is brilliant and the only thing he steals is Julia's heart, but you know without a doubt he will cherish it. He makes me think of Bert from Mary Poppins in that he is more than he appears to be. He is an adventure.

There is also a spectacular supporting cast that we meet throughout the book. They remind us that people touch our lives in small and different ways and that contact truly means something.

Julia is a wonderfully told love story that is felt like a valentine to not only the city, but it’s many characters. Ashley Pullo shows us New York though the kaleidoscope view of someone who loves their city, warts and all. Understanding it’s many nuances, secret spots and what makes it hum. It remains one of my favorite places on earth. I might just have a bit of crush on this book and NYC.

Enjoy!!

Laurie's Rating: An army of Gummy Bears
Profile Image for Sara.
594 reviews24 followers
March 24, 2016
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review over on my blog page Pretty Little Book Blog.


I love this series and book so much! What Candace Bushnell and Sex and the City did for disenchanted 40 something women Ashley gives us the same suave big city feel for the under 30 crowd! Her characters are battling the big issues for that demographic, growing up but fighting getting  older. Succeeding in your career, and finding your HEA. 


While these are common themes for most romance novels, Ashley flips the switch and makes this story fun and exciting. Julia is a strong,and happily single woman trying to make a name for herself as a writer and somehow gets labeled the Wedding expert! (Total 27 Dresses-ish Rom Com moment here) her best friend Meredith is planning her own wedding (despite reservations that this is really what she actually wants) both are insanely funny characters and are just the right balance of quirky and normal to make things interesting. 


Julia has a ace in the hole with her next door neighbor Theo -- they totally have a friends first relationship which is one of my favorite tropes and so he is over at her apartment all the time to hang out or he watches her dog Fletch while she is at work. Its only when he accompanies her to a wedding she has to do a write up on does she see him in a new light. 


The middle and end of this book are so incredibly adorable that I wanted to crawl into this book and not leave! This story draws you in to these characters lives, even the characters that are just mentioned! Instantly I wanted to know more about them, what their favorite experiences are about living in the city? Were they born there or transplanted? Etc. Its an endless landscape for the stories of different walks of life 
Profile Image for Michele.
389 reviews29 followers
March 10, 2016
I've been in a bit of a reading slump lately. I've read a few books, but nothing that I absolutely devoured or that forced me to shirk my daily duties in favor of reading.

Until Julia. I've read all of Ashley Pullo's books, and I've loved them all. But I think Julia is my favorite. The story drew me in from the first page and I don't think I stopped smiling the entire time I read. In fact, I'm smiling now as I think about it. The characters are charming and relatable and quirky and fun. I want to be friends with Julia and Theo and Meredith! I want to dog-sit Fletch!
The vivid descriptions of everyday New York City almost makes me want to pick up and move there. I've been to NYC a few times. But I want to see the New York depicted in these stories.

Although Julia is the 2nd book in the New Amsterdam series, it can be read as a standalone. However, I highly recommend that you read Tess first, as there are a few characters that make an appearance in Julia and it will enhance the experience if you've already met them. And when I say experience, that is exactly what reading an Ashley Pullo book is - an experience. One you don't want to miss!
Profile Image for Heather.
10 reviews
March 12, 2016
She did it again! This time a girl and her pup versus the quirky yet charming boy next door! Ashley Pullo has a way of bringing these very real characters with every day issues to life, and she does it with charm, wit, sincerity and truth.

Being a driven and successful woman can be enough. Though sometimes that missing piece isn't the love you have to have, it's the icing on top when you least expect it. When you're discovering what you want out of life while trying to balance friendship, family and work you can only hope to have a Theo Barnes along for the ride!
Profile Image for Colleen Oppenheim.
416 reviews37 followers
July 6, 2016
No one can write likable, real characters like Ashley Pullo can. I have been a fan of her's since I read The Ballad, so I jumped at the chance to read Julia. The story of a wedding newspaper columnist (a dream job since seeing 21 Dresses) and her cute, funny neighbor Theo, falling for each other while navigating living and loving in New York.

A quick and endearing read that will keep the reader enthralled and smiling from beginning to end!
Profile Image for chloegirl.
607 reviews
May 27, 2018
Another fun story in this series. This ones definitely more cheesy than the first.
Profile Image for Candy.
275 reviews
April 12, 2019
Have you ever picked up a book and been transported to another world? One where you can so vividly see the scenes play out, almost like a movie? One where you can smell the surroundings and feel all the little nuances of the moment? With each book by Ashley Pullo that I dive into, it’s that experience I get. Julia is the second book in the New Amsterdam series, and while it can be read as a standalone, I highly suggest starting with the first in order to appreciate each piece that much more.

“Ninety-nine weddings under your belt, and yet you can only remember one…you’re definitely chasing something.”

Julia and Theo were such a fun, surprising couple. Whenever I thought I had them figured out, something popped up that threw me for a loop. I’m a firm believer that every true love stems from a friendship, so I really appreciated that it’s where these two found their start. I loved that they were unconventional and fun. Their dates were different and precious and it allowed me to fall for the two of them as a couple awfully fast.

“Look in my eyes and just feel the moment, Jules.”

My favorite thing about Pullo’s writing has to be how she chooses to weave elements from her different books together. It’s not always in your face obvious, but there are subtle hints of characters we have met before. It almost translates to a greater philosophical question of just how much our paths cross someone else’s. In a city of eight million people, like New York City, it was just one of those things that warmed my heart and made the world feel smaller.

“…but for whatever reason, people love to spill every detail of their lives when she doesn’t care. Except Theo – he’s more interested in her story.”

As I’ve said before, Pullo’s writing is a notch above the rest! When I think of New York City, I honestly imagine overcrowded streets and dirty walkways. However, this author was able to bring me into the more intimate pieces in Julia, the aspects that make New York City where so many people want to go. She blankets me in these scenes and all I see is the beauty of it all. Her visualizations and descriptions create a magical ambience that I never want to leave. Even though I just finished this one, I’m already waiting for Darby to release just so I can be transported to another world again. Julia was a quick, light read that will leave you smiling and swooning, and I definitely can’t recommend it enough!
March 13, 2016
What a breath of fresh air! Ashley Pullo's quirky writing style has sucked me in yet again and my heart is still feeling all mushy and squishy after finishing this book yesterday.

Told in a fashion reminiscent of a TV show, Julia is written almost like a person is narrating a TV show. In fact, the New Amsterdam series would actually make a great sitcom if you want my opinion.

With the authors dry and witty sense of humor, this book is easy to read. I've never been to New York but the setting is definitely important as the author takes great care to describe the setting and what I assume are 'real New Yorker' places and activities. Makes me feel kind of like I visited the city which I love.

Julia is a skeptic when it comes to love after being burned in the past. But her sexy, yet nerdy neighbor, Theo may just be the man to change her mind. He walks her dog, brings her bagels and boy... did I mention he was sexy? Whew. The sex isn't explicit, it's mostly fade to black but the chemistry between these two is amazingly hot.

Julia is a quick read, kind of a long novella but it hits all the things you really need in a good book. Great characters, nice storyline, a bit of angst, a few laughs. I definitely encourage everyone to give this a try. While it's the second in the New Amsterdam series, this is a stand alone and not really related to Tess (book one). It might take you a chapter or two to get used to the writing style but I promise it's absolutely worth it and when you're done, you'll be begging Ashley to hurry and finish the next installment, Darby.

Easily 5 stars!
Profile Image for Bff Book Blog.
387 reviews38 followers
March 11, 2016
Ashley Pullo has done it again. She's delivered another petite novel packed full of quirky, endearing characters, witty dialogue and human emotion. The New Amsterdam series is based on the concept of Human's in New York. This is a deeper look into the lives of everyday people. But, like the Humans of New York vignettes, what you find when you delve into the novel are countless, meaningful, emotional stories playing out in unexpected and unassuming ways.

Julia is a wedding columnist hoping to spend more time writing about people and less time focusing on places. She has a blossoming relationship with Theo, her next-door neighbor. He's handsome, sweet and adorably endearing! Their relationship is the focal point of the story. But, they're surrounded by a rich cast of friends, family and acquaintances who add depth and breadth to the story.

The New Amsterdam series reminds us that all stories are important and that every single person in the world has a meaningful story to tell. When you look deeply into life's ordinary moments, that's when you find what is truly extraordinary. What a wonderful reminder Pullo has delivered. I look forward to more wonderful stories just like Julia and Theo's!

This book received a 4.5 rating at the BFF Book Blog. The BFF Book Blog also uses a set of icon ratings. This book received additional ratings for: butterflies, character development, funny, romance, supporting characters and sweet. An advance copy was received in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca M.
715 reviews8 followers
March 25, 2016
Well I practically could have highlighted the whole book, but I didn't because I was too busy squeezing in reading minutes between boisterous children.
I had laughed out loud twice within the first chapter, before pm-ing to book friends that had already read it, that This Book Is Great!!
It's a novella, but has the feel of a complete book. It's low angst, has practically no drama, but is a charming story of a wedding event reporter, and her computer programmer geek neighbour (who happens to be hot); a friends to lovers story that will make you laugh a lot, and keep a smile on your face. Lots of witty banter, lovely descriptive scenery around New York, had a favourite romantic movie feel.
Ashley Pullo has an intelligent, witty style that is a breath of fresh air. This is a second standalone novella from a series, designed to make you happy. Perfect for a book hangover, a reprieve from angsty heartbreak.
Loved it, I'll definitely be reading this again.

Merged review:

A charming wedding event writer and a computer programmer geek

An absolute pleasure to read! There's something about this author's wit and storytelling that is like a breath of fresh air.
Even though only a novella, it has the feel of a complete story. There's no real angst or complication, but I promise you a lot of laughs, and a charming story to leave a perpetual smile on your face. This is the kind of story that is a balm for an aching heart, a reset from a book hangover.
I loved it, I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Anima.
2,552 reviews48 followers
March 10, 2016
Reading a Pullo book is like getting a tour of New York with emotions and sarcasm. She incorporates the romance we all love with a Humans of New York feel. Girlfriends Meredith and Julia are closer than sisters and would do absolutely anything for each other. Both working for the Herald, Julia as a wedding columnist and Meredith a style columnist, the girls have been roommates and coworkers for many years. Meredith struggles with planning her wedding, or I should say the coordinator is stressing her out and apply severe peer pressure. While Julia is helping Mere she is falling for the hot techie across the hall. Theo has a sordid past and sad childhood but it gave him the perfectly witty and charming personality that suits Julia. Reading their conversations is similar to a tennis match, the perfect zinger or pop culture reference will make you smile and remember. I lost count at the pop references but we get Seinfeld, Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds is gorgeous), the movie Idiocracy (need to re-watch that immediately) and plenty of fashion designers are mentioned. This masterpiece is part of a collection with different characters in each story but there is one common person - Darby. We get her story in the next New Amsterdam selection. During a Facebook contest I won an early release copy and have gladly written my honest review. Suddenly I am craving green gummy bears.......
Profile Image for Lori Otto.
Author 27 books752 followers
October 12, 2016
I fell in love with Ashley Pullo’s storytelling in the first book in this series (Tess), and I didn’t think she’d be able to top that. Julia’s book, though… *sigh*

I liked this one even better! Ashley’s writing style makes the book so easy to read. Witty banter, smart characters and current cultural references make the story fresh. Her New York references make me feel like I’m a resident in the city, and I love that.

Theo was an interesting character with a great supporting background that gave him depth. He’s one of those people that–after I finish a book–I really want to know more about. I bet his childhood and what he dealt with as a young adult would make me cry. I like to cry.

Julia was an awesome heroine. I like how she took care of her best friend, Meredith, and made her happiness such a priority. I’ve met very few women in my life who would go to such lengths for me, but I know they do exist. She deserves a good man who would be a partner to her–someone who trusts her and can be trusted.

The friends-to-lovers build-up was necessary for this couple due to their past trust (or distrust) issues. The pacing was perfect, and I’m glad they both got what they wanted.
3,354 reviews7 followers
June 5, 2018
Julia writes a column about wedding for a NYC newspaper. She has a huge following and to be featured in her column means you have made it. Except that no one knows that Julia hates weddings, mostly because of what happened to her.

Theo is her tech geek neighbor who also watches her dog for her frequently. They are friends and the attraction is there, but neither seems willing to take it to the next level. Meanwhile, Julia's BFF is in trouble because she has way overspent for her dream wedding and can't figure out how to get her money back so they can elope instead. Julia decides to come to her rescue and use her clout to give her friend the wedding she deserves.

The characters are well fleshed out and likeable and the story pace felt just right. As with the other books in by this author, the main characters are not the only focus of the story and the supporting cast is just as interesting. Throughout the series, we do see some recurring characters as well as characters from the Discography Series.

Once again, I read it in one sitting and was hoping for more.
Profile Image for Judy.
3,277 reviews21 followers
April 17, 2016
This is second in a series featuring a glimpse of people´s lives in New York City. Julia works for a major NYC newspaper writing up society weddings. To have her feature your wedding is to have made it in certain circles. Sadly her own experience with love was being abandoned hours after the wedding when her husband left for London to take a job she turned down to stay with him. Her neighbor Theo is a good friend who often babysits her dog, and who has his own issues with abandonment. Her best friend is engaged to be married, and is freaking out over the cost and the details of arranging a wedding, so she decides to just elope to Las Vegas to avoid the whole thing. Julia hates to see her friend miss out on having family and friends there for her big moment, so she and Theo plan a surprise wedding on the rooftop of their building. In the process, she and Theo fall in love. There´s no major plot here, but the people are endearing and it´s a sweet ending. The series was inspired by the Humans of New York website and this is a fun and feel-good experience to read.
Profile Image for Laura.
584 reviews5 followers
July 3, 2016
A wonderfully light hearted book!

New Amsterdam: Julia continued the awesome storytelling from the first book (Tess) in the series. I again enjoyed how the focus of the book is on one main character but how Ashley gives you a glimpse into the lives of the people who interact with Julia. It's a very light hearted book & for me that made it so easy to keep reading & not want to put it down. I loved getting to know Julia after she was mentioned in Tess's book.
Although it's the second book in the series I don't think it's necessary to read Tess before you start Julia (although the whole Paul with the plum blossom aftershave thing would make a bit more sense). I would highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Carrie.
1,302 reviews2 followers
March 21, 2016
Julia is the second novella in the New Amsterdam series. You don't have to have read the first one (Tess) in order to read the second one.

Julia is a wedding columnist at a well known New York City newspaper. This story centers around her day to day life involving work, men, and her best friend Meridith.

Ashely Pullo has a talent at writing character driven stories. Her writing is unique, descriptive and refreshing. If you haven't read any of her work yet you are missing out. This would be a great book to check out if you haven't.
Profile Image for Lisa Karafa.
115 reviews1 follower
June 5, 2016
Ashley Pullo is a new to me author and I decided to read this book in anticipation of meeting her at an upcoming author event.

I really enjoyed it. Loved the way she brought NYC to life in the story and integrated wonderful sub characters into the story in ways that made you want more of their stories as well.

Julia and Theo made me smile with the way they bantered back and forth and Fletch was the icing on the cake.

This was a fun story and I will be reading New Amsterdam, Tess very soon.
Profile Image for Melissa Jones.
334 reviews12 followers
July 9, 2016
I can't get enough of Author Ashley Pullo's writing....it's so refreshingly unique and each new book I read by her renews my love for this author and her wonderful novels!!

As with the first New Amsterdam book Tess, Julia will sweep you away to New York City feeling just like you're experiencing it all through the quirky characters that you can't resist falling in love with it all....especially Theo (book boyfriend alert, I need more Theo please)! I can't wait for the next book!!
441 reviews2 followers
March 17, 2016
Really liked this story, sweet and laugh-out-loud funny
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.