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One Call Away
The plan was simple. Meet a handsome stranger, have a bit of fun, and write a juicy tell-all article.
The trouble is, I hooked up with my coworker. And now I'm falling for him.
I’ve been keeping my crush on Benjamin Daniels under wraps for years. It was easy when he was just a hot office hunk with delectable forearms and piercing blue eyes. But ever since the night he almost kissed me, it’s become nearly impossible.
It doesn’t help that he calls me every day, and we share a thread of never-ending emails. Or that when he stops by my cubicle and flashes his flirty smile my body churns with desire.
I tell myself not to get caught up in the haze. That men like him don’t fall for women like me. Because it’s one thing to give in to temptation when I’m alone. It’s another to put my heart on the line.
But when a game of pretend to deke my ex leads to the hottest kiss of my life, the lines start to blur. And now that I know what his mouth tastes like and how his hands feel on my body, there’s no stopping my mind from wandering to places it shouldn’t.
I guess what they say is true—you can’t like a person for so long and then not feel something when you finally give in to temptation.
Now I have to make a choice: protect my relationship or my career.
But I know one thing for certain.
I’m going to get hurt either way.
The trouble is, I hooked up with my coworker. And now I'm falling for him.
I’ve been keeping my crush on Benjamin Daniels under wraps for years. It was easy when he was just a hot office hunk with delectable forearms and piercing blue eyes. But ever since the night he almost kissed me, it’s become nearly impossible.
It doesn’t help that he calls me every day, and we share a thread of never-ending emails. Or that when he stops by my cubicle and flashes his flirty smile my body churns with desire.
I tell myself not to get caught up in the haze. That men like him don’t fall for women like me. Because it’s one thing to give in to temptation when I’m alone. It’s another to put my heart on the line.
But when a game of pretend to deke my ex leads to the hottest kiss of my life, the lines start to blur. And now that I know what his mouth tastes like and how his hands feel on my body, there’s no stopping my mind from wandering to places it shouldn’t.
I guess what they say is true—you can’t like a person for so long and then not feel something when you finally give in to temptation.
Now I have to make a choice: protect my relationship or my career.
But I know one thing for certain.
I’m going to get hurt either way.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2023
54 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
About the author
Lexy Josephine
1 book24 followersLexy Josephine is a Canadian author of steamy contemporary romance featuring strong, diverse characters, laugh-out-loud moments and, of course, all the sexy shenanigans. She lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba with her two dogs, an ever-growing library and too many coffee mugs.
When Lexy is not writing, she can be found reading, singing, or snuggling with her dogs while she rewatches Grey’s Anatomy for the umpteenth time.
When Lexy is not writing, she can be found reading, singing, or snuggling with her dogs while she rewatches Grey’s Anatomy for the umpteenth time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 11, 2023
Let me start saying that Lexy has given me the absolute honor to have read this 3 times already and each time I fall in love with it even more. I’ve been DYING to talk about this book for so freaking long!!! Y’all, Stella and Ben are one of the sweetest and sexiest couples I’ve read! Are you a fan of the ‘he falls first’ trope? If so, you will feel like a kid in a candy store with this book. Believe ne when I tell you YOUR HEART WILL MELT!! Lexy’s writing is simply magical and these characters have everything a Romance reader crave:
A badass heroine and an ovary-melting hero. Mutual pining like no other, snarky emails, banter’s galore. Flirty phone calls , dirty talk to die for, the swooniest chemistry ever… super hot sexy times! Meddling friends and a happy, heartwarming ending that will make you smile hard!
If you love workplace rom coms and need a sign to pick up this book, THIS IS IT!!!!!
A badass heroine and an ovary-melting hero. Mutual pining like no other, snarky emails, banter’s galore. Flirty phone calls , dirty talk to die for, the swooniest chemistry ever… super hot sexy times! Meddling friends and a happy, heartwarming ending that will make you smile hard!
If you love workplace rom coms and need a sign to pick up this book, THIS IS IT!!!!!
March 30, 2023
I love finding new Canadian indie romance authors who are beyond talented!!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this debut from Lexy Josephine and it was a pure delight to read. Ben and Stella were such great characters and I couldn't help rooting for them from the first page.
You're going to want to pick this one up if you like:
- workplace romances
- mutual pining
- dual POV
- witty banter via texts/emails/phone calls
- great mental health rep (anxiety + panic attacks)
- Grumpy heros (who are really secret cinnamon rolls)
- Curvy heroines
- slow burns
- open door spice
Recommended for fans of books like The love wager by Lynn Painter, Just my type by Fallon Ballard or the movie, How to lose a guy in 10 days. Many thanks to the author for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this debut from Lexy Josephine and it was a pure delight to read. Ben and Stella were such great characters and I couldn't help rooting for them from the first page.
You're going to want to pick this one up if you like:
- workplace romances
- mutual pining
- dual POV
- witty banter via texts/emails/phone calls
- great mental health rep (anxiety + panic attacks)
- Grumpy heros (who are really secret cinnamon rolls)
- Curvy heroines
- slow burns
- open door spice
Recommended for fans of books like The love wager by Lynn Painter, Just my type by Fallon Ballard or the movie, How to lose a guy in 10 days. Many thanks to the author for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
December 12, 2024
I just read 30% of this book and literally nothing worth mentioning has happened like at all?
March 31, 2023
For a first book, I felt the writing was done well. There weren’t any major grammatical errors and overall the story flowed well. However, I did not buy their connection at all. By the end of the book I’m supposed to believe they love each other and I just don’t. From the beginning, the only pull was mutual sexual attraction. That’s fine at first, but after a while, I need to see a deeper connection and it just wasn’t there. Talking about your exes in one or two conversations doesn’t show enough emotional intimacy. Also, I found the main conflict to be a bit silly. Even if Stella felt she truly had to write the article, it would have been as easy as telling Ben beforehand to end the conflict before it began. She could have even told him and made something up with his consent so their private lives weren’t put out there. Not to mention, I felt really icky about the boss demanding that Stella write an article about a sexual experience. It sounded almost like she was coercing her into having sex and then writing about it for work. This was never addressed in the book. Just because you write an article about sex toys doesn’t mean that a personal sexual experience is next on the line.
Anyway, I think the author has great potential, but this story fell flat for me.
Anyway, I think the author has great potential, but this story fell flat for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2023
This was really cute, I enjoyed the characters and the way the story happened between the two of them.
May 26, 2023
2.75-3/5
This was kinda cute. Here’s a few of my thoughts:
-First date…at Starbucks???
-Very much lust/insta-love and we barely saw any romance. How did they fall in love????
-Miscommunication/keeping info tropes are not my thing because you’re grown. Speak up.
-They both need therapy.
-Stella’s boss??? Yeah, she can kick rocks and I really wish Stella would’ve just quit.
-Spice was good.
-I wish Stella’s self-love/healing journey was talked about more in relation to herself and not just Ben (idk if that makes sense).
This was kinda cute. Here’s a few of my thoughts:
-First date…at Starbucks???
-Very much lust/insta-love and we barely saw any romance. How did they fall in love????
-Miscommunication/keeping info tropes are not my thing because you’re grown. Speak up.
-They both need therapy.
-Stella’s boss??? Yeah, she can kick rocks and I really wish Stella would’ve just quit.
-Spice was good.
-I wish Stella’s self-love/healing journey was talked about more in relation to herself and not just Ben (idk if that makes sense).
March 13, 2023
Thank you Lexy Josephine for sending me an ARC! I'm so glad I was able to read and review this book early.
•
"I never thought I’d want someone’s attention so much. To the point where I crave it. I’ve gone so long feeling unwanted. Redundant. But not anymore. I don’t feel that way when Ben looks at me. A lot of emotions blast through me when his gaze holds mine, but inadequate isn’t one of them."
•
•
One Call Away is Lexy Josephine's debut novel and I loved every second of it! It's a dual POV workplace romance, with he falls first, mutual pining and PLUS SIZE REP! It was so relatable, funny, heartwarming and contained ALL of the steamiest spice. There were meddlesome friends (my fav!), witty banter, flirty email exchanges, and a MMC who is perceived to be grumpy but is actually the sweetest lil cinnamon roll ever. The portrayal of body image, anxiety and panic attacks were all relatable and handled well. The plus size rep was EVERYTHING. It was beautiful and accurate and made me love the book even more.
Stella Simone and Ben Daniels both work for the same online magazine. Stella, writes Lifestyle and Ben, writes Sports. Two years before the start of the novel, Stella and Ben shared an almost kiss in the breakroom. And ever since, the two have been pining. Hard. And they started the cutest little routine - every morning at 9:03, Ben calls Stella and they talk. Flirt. Banter back and forth. After an out of the box article Stella wrote about her lack of sex with someone other than herself goes viral, her boss wants a follow up. Hook up with someone, break the "dry spell," and write about it. Stella hates this idea, but after her boss threatens her job, she feels she has no choice.
Ben and Stella have been circling each other for years and after a night on the town ends with the two of them finally making out, things get complicated. The two fall hard and fast, finally giving in to the feelings they've been hiding for years. They compliment each other perfectly, accepting the others baggage left behind from previous relationships. Stella, insecure and self conscious due to the way her ex treated her and talked about her body. And Ben, slow to trust because his ex betrayed him for personal gain.
With the shadow of the article Stella is supposed to be writing hanging over them, Stella has to decide what path she wants to take and how that will alter not only her career but her future with Ben.
•
"I never thought I’d want someone’s attention so much. To the point where I crave it. I’ve gone so long feeling unwanted. Redundant. But not anymore. I don’t feel that way when Ben looks at me. A lot of emotions blast through me when his gaze holds mine, but inadequate isn’t one of them."
•
•
One Call Away is Lexy Josephine's debut novel and I loved every second of it! It's a dual POV workplace romance, with he falls first, mutual pining and PLUS SIZE REP! It was so relatable, funny, heartwarming and contained ALL of the steamiest spice. There were meddlesome friends (my fav!), witty banter, flirty email exchanges, and a MMC who is perceived to be grumpy but is actually the sweetest lil cinnamon roll ever. The portrayal of body image, anxiety and panic attacks were all relatable and handled well. The plus size rep was EVERYTHING. It was beautiful and accurate and made me love the book even more.
Stella Simone and Ben Daniels both work for the same online magazine. Stella, writes Lifestyle and Ben, writes Sports. Two years before the start of the novel, Stella and Ben shared an almost kiss in the breakroom. And ever since, the two have been pining. Hard. And they started the cutest little routine - every morning at 9:03, Ben calls Stella and they talk. Flirt. Banter back and forth. After an out of the box article Stella wrote about her lack of sex with someone other than herself goes viral, her boss wants a follow up. Hook up with someone, break the "dry spell," and write about it. Stella hates this idea, but after her boss threatens her job, she feels she has no choice.
Ben and Stella have been circling each other for years and after a night on the town ends with the two of them finally making out, things get complicated. The two fall hard and fast, finally giving in to the feelings they've been hiding for years. They compliment each other perfectly, accepting the others baggage left behind from previous relationships. Stella, insecure and self conscious due to the way her ex treated her and talked about her body. And Ben, slow to trust because his ex betrayed him for personal gain.
With the shadow of the article Stella is supposed to be writing hanging over them, Stella has to decide what path she wants to take and how that will alter not only her career but her future with Ben.
April 10, 2023
Title: One Call Away
Author: Lexy Josephine
Hero/Heroine: Ben & Stella
Tropes: Workplace, Mutual Pining, Plus Size Heroine, He Falls First,
tw/cw: on page panic attack, anxiety, cheating, emotional abuse in a past relationship, betrayal, negative self worth,
✨ the good ✨
Well smack my arse and call me Charlie (ok, that sounded kinkier than I meant it to). Basically, I’m trying to express my shock about how this can be a debut novel. It. Was. Friggin. Epic. These two. Seriously. I was swooning so bloody hard every time they appeared on the page together.
Ben and Stella both work at Neon Beats, where he’s a sports writer and she produces content for the lifestyle section. Every day, at 9.03 on the dot, Ben calls Stella’s desk and they end up chatting about any and everything. There’s obviously flirting as well, I’m telling you, they have chemistry in spades and I was here for all of it.
You know what I loved most about this story (apart from, you know, all of it)? It was the vulnerability of both characters. They had both experienced betrayal and pain at the hands of people who were meant to love them, which in turn made them doubt their own self worth. Finding in each other a person that loved them no matter what their flaws were or what happened in their past was a thing of pure beauty, and I ate that shit up like it was carbs on the first day of my period.
I also appreciated the fact that it was Stella who made the mistake and had to grovel to Ben. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good grovel by a hero in a romance, however this just hit different. It showed the heroine admit that she made a mistake and was willing to work to earn back the trust of the hero.
One Call Away was an absolute joy from start to finish, and I wish I could read 200 more pages about Ben, Stella and their gorgeous relationship.
✨ the bad ✨
Colton and Nikki. Two people that need to be shot from a cannon directly into the nearest bin.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts✨ a sweet and steamy workplace romance
✨steam level✨🔥🔥🔥
✨star rating✨ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Lexy Josephine
Hero/Heroine: Ben & Stella
Tropes: Workplace, Mutual Pining, Plus Size Heroine, He Falls First,
tw/cw: on page panic attack, anxiety, cheating, emotional abuse in a past relationship, betrayal, negative self worth,
✨ the good ✨
Well smack my arse and call me Charlie (ok, that sounded kinkier than I meant it to). Basically, I’m trying to express my shock about how this can be a debut novel. It. Was. Friggin. Epic. These two. Seriously. I was swooning so bloody hard every time they appeared on the page together.
Ben and Stella both work at Neon Beats, where he’s a sports writer and she produces content for the lifestyle section. Every day, at 9.03 on the dot, Ben calls Stella’s desk and they end up chatting about any and everything. There’s obviously flirting as well, I’m telling you, they have chemistry in spades and I was here for all of it.
You know what I loved most about this story (apart from, you know, all of it)? It was the vulnerability of both characters. They had both experienced betrayal and pain at the hands of people who were meant to love them, which in turn made them doubt their own self worth. Finding in each other a person that loved them no matter what their flaws were or what happened in their past was a thing of pure beauty, and I ate that shit up like it was carbs on the first day of my period.
I also appreciated the fact that it was Stella who made the mistake and had to grovel to Ben. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good grovel by a hero in a romance, however this just hit different. It showed the heroine admit that she made a mistake and was willing to work to earn back the trust of the hero.
One Call Away was an absolute joy from start to finish, and I wish I could read 200 more pages about Ben, Stella and their gorgeous relationship.
✨ the bad ✨
Colton and Nikki. Two people that need to be shot from a cannon directly into the nearest bin.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts✨ a sweet and steamy workplace romance
✨steam level✨🔥🔥🔥
✨star rating✨ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 15, 2023
An open-door romance & a debut novel by a Canadian writer, One Call Away is a perfect book when you're in a reading slump. Or if you're looking for a romance with a meaningful back story (after all, Olive tells Ben Romance is very diverse now. Jump into this century). Or if mutual pining is on your list of favourite tropes (it isn't on mine, but thanks to the author's writing I got interested in Olive & Ben's story from the get-go). Is this gonna be one of those books that you just know from the beginning it's going to be great?, I thought to myself, and I wasn't disappointed (which only proves that with the right execution, every trope can become "your" trope).
The narration flows between both POVs, which was great, as I don't enjoy romances written from only female's point of view. Here, we've got Olive, a lifestyle writer, and Ben, a sports journalist working for the same publisher. They're both feeling vulnerable, burned, afraid to trust again after failed relationships left them doubting themselves. Oh, and Olive's plus size, which by no means defines her. And yes, representatation matters.
Overall, a great, character-driven story of two people looking for a connection & a solid 4-star read from a new author. Looking forward to more books from her.
Favourite quotes:
TW hidden in spoilers.
One Call Away is set to release on March 23, 2023.
Thank you to the author for a copy of an e-arc in exchange for this honest review.
The narration flows between both POVs, which was great, as I don't enjoy romances written from only female's point of view. Here, we've got Olive, a lifestyle writer, and Ben, a sports journalist working for the same publisher. They're both feeling vulnerable, burned, afraid to trust again after failed relationships left them doubting themselves. Oh, and Olive's plus size, which by no means defines her. And yes, representatation matters.
Overall, a great, character-driven story of two people looking for a connection & a solid 4-star read from a new author. Looking forward to more books from her.
Favourite quotes:
I have the same right to be here as everyone else, body types be damned.
When you have trouble loving yourself, the idea of someone else loving you seems impossible.
So, let's go to the bookstore.
I'm a somewhat-average reader, but what the fuck is a trope?
TW hidden in spoilers.
One Call Away is set to release on March 23, 2023.
Thank you to the author for a copy of an e-arc in exchange for this honest review.
March 23, 2023
One Call Away - Lexy Josephine 💕😍
💕Workplace Romance
💕Plus size heroine
💕Anxiety representation
💕Grumpy cinnamon roll hero
“To Anyone who feels unworthy of love. You are worthy. You are beautiful. You are enough.
This dedication took me out! A debut that was so incredible! I’m so glad I got a chance to read an advanced copy of this story. Stella and Benjamin’s banter, friendship, and attraction towards each other reminded me of How To Lose A Guy in Ten Days in book form.
The love that Ben showed Stella, the care, concern, and adoration .😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 It didn’t feel as though I was reading a debut book, these characters felt familiar and the storyline cozy. The example of how authentic love and acceptance of another person makes a difference…..
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💕Workplace Romance
💕Plus size heroine
💕Anxiety representation
💕Grumpy cinnamon roll hero
“To Anyone who feels unworthy of love. You are worthy. You are beautiful. You are enough.
This dedication took me out! A debut that was so incredible! I’m so glad I got a chance to read an advanced copy of this story. Stella and Benjamin’s banter, friendship, and attraction towards each other reminded me of How To Lose A Guy in Ten Days in book form.
The love that Ben showed Stella, the care, concern, and adoration .😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 It didn’t feel as though I was reading a debut book, these characters felt familiar and the storyline cozy. The example of how authentic love and acceptance of another person makes a difference…..
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 12, 2023
A Binge worthy romance
Ben. Oh Ben. You delicious, sweet, dirty man you. Not only was this story a complete steam fest- it tugged at my curvy girl heartstrings. This story was fast paced, beyond relatable and hit all the right buttons for me in a rom com. Give Stella and Ben a call - you won’t be disappointed I promise!
I love finding new indie authors and a Canadian indie author to boot sets my little book heart on fire. This was an amazing debut novel by @authorlexyjosephine and I cannot wait for her all new series coming later this year.
Ben. Oh Ben. You delicious, sweet, dirty man you. Not only was this story a complete steam fest- it tugged at my curvy girl heartstrings. This story was fast paced, beyond relatable and hit all the right buttons for me in a rom com. Give Stella and Ben a call - you won’t be disappointed I promise!
I love finding new indie authors and a Canadian indie author to boot sets my little book heart on fire. This was an amazing debut novel by @authorlexyjosephine and I cannot wait for her all new series coming later this year.
February 25, 2024
Pure filth.
March 21, 2023
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and I was lucky enough to get an early copy! From the start I knew I’d love this book. This book has dual POV, a plus sized heroine, phone and e-mail conversations and banter. All of my favorite things!
One Call Away was the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. The hero, Ben, is so sweet and swoony. The ultimate book boyfriend. The heroine, Stella, is relatable and you just want to cheer for her. I loved that she was body positive but also realistic, and had real feelings and emotions that she wasn’t afraid to bring up. She and Ben complimented each other so well and they both just made me so happy.
The epilogue was absolute PERFECTION and I was smiling SO HARD! Thank you Lexy for the early copy in exchange for my honest review. This is quite the debut novel and I can’t wait to see what else you write!
One Call Away was the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. The hero, Ben, is so sweet and swoony. The ultimate book boyfriend. The heroine, Stella, is relatable and you just want to cheer for her. I loved that she was body positive but also realistic, and had real feelings and emotions that she wasn’t afraid to bring up. She and Ben complimented each other so well and they both just made me so happy.
The epilogue was absolute PERFECTION and I was smiling SO HARD! Thank you Lexy for the early copy in exchange for my honest review. This is quite the debut novel and I can’t wait to see what else you write!
March 21, 2023
4 1/2 Stars!!
•
Firstly a shout out to Lexy Josephine for giving me an ARC copy! I absolutely loved this book. It isn’t one of my normal go genres so even more exiting for me.
•
‘One Call Away’ is Lexy Josephine’s debut novel.
It is a work place romance with a plus sized protagonist (LOVE!) and a male character who falls first.
This book is very relatable with topics like; body image, anxiety and much more.
It’s a heartwarming story and it was very easy to fall in love with Stella (the main character)
The amount of times I laughed out loud or was sad and related to a feeling Stella was uncountable!
It is an easy read (for me with dyslexia).
For the spicy readers amongst you…there is spice!
•
‘One Call away’ Releases this Thursday, 23.03.2023
•
Firstly a shout out to Lexy Josephine for giving me an ARC copy! I absolutely loved this book. It isn’t one of my normal go genres so even more exiting for me.
•
‘One Call Away’ is Lexy Josephine’s debut novel.
It is a work place romance with a plus sized protagonist (LOVE!) and a male character who falls first.
This book is very relatable with topics like; body image, anxiety and much more.
It’s a heartwarming story and it was very easy to fall in love with Stella (the main character)
The amount of times I laughed out loud or was sad and related to a feeling Stella was uncountable!
It is an easy read (for me with dyslexia).
For the spicy readers amongst you…there is spice!
•
‘One Call away’ Releases this Thursday, 23.03.2023
March 23, 2023
The plan was simple. Meet a handsome stranger, have a bit of fun, and write a juicy tell-all article.
The trouble is, I hooked up with my coworker. And now I’m falling for him.
- - - -
Ok - this one’s so good y’all. It’s got some of the best romance tropes, plus a fat FMC added in. Stella and Ben are absolutely adorable. I love how Ben calls Stella every. Day. at 9:03am on the dot to laugh and flirt, all while they don’t know that the other feels the exact same way. Their chemistry is on fire. Ben is being added to my book boyfriend list for sure.
It’s a fun twist on How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, which is one of my favorite movies. I flew this book and I recommend it to all workplace/rom com lovers.
Recommended if you like:
-workplace romance
-plus size rep
-anxiety rep
-open-door steam
-How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days
-dual POV
-grumpy/sunshine trope
-coffee
-flirty banter
-He falls first
-supporting debut/indie authors
CW: abusive relationships (past), panic attack (on-page), body shaming
Thanks so much to the author for giving me a chance to read an ARC copy.
One Call Away is out now and also on KU!
The trouble is, I hooked up with my coworker. And now I’m falling for him.
- - - -
Ok - this one’s so good y’all. It’s got some of the best romance tropes, plus a fat FMC added in. Stella and Ben are absolutely adorable. I love how Ben calls Stella every. Day. at 9:03am on the dot to laugh and flirt, all while they don’t know that the other feels the exact same way. Their chemistry is on fire. Ben is being added to my book boyfriend list for sure.
It’s a fun twist on How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, which is one of my favorite movies. I flew this book and I recommend it to all workplace/rom com lovers.
Recommended if you like:
-workplace romance
-plus size rep
-anxiety rep
-open-door steam
-How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days
-dual POV
-grumpy/sunshine trope
-coffee
-flirty banter
-He falls first
-supporting debut/indie authors
CW: abusive relationships (past), panic attack (on-page), body shaming
Thanks so much to the author for giving me a chance to read an ARC copy.
One Call Away is out now and also on KU!
August 20, 2023
The main problem of this book is the FMC.
Honestly, she’s so annoying, rude towards her friends and MMC in the beginning (trying to play it off as banter), queen of overreacting, just not a fun person to be around.
Her insecurities are all valid and it’s sad but this is by far one of the worst plus-size characters I have read about. There are way better books that represent the plus-size girlies. With actual characters that won’t make you want to scratch your eyes out while reading.
If I were the MMC I wouldn’t have forgiven her after what she did. She says in the end she wanted to tell him, but she was scared bla bla bla. Sis had so many opportunities to tell him because he asked her flat out what she was working on and every time she deflected or said something to minimize what she was doing.
She wrote a whole article about their relationship (sex-life) even though her boss “modified” some things on it, still doesn’t change the fact that she still wrote it. And then sis went so far to publish an apology which included again unnecessary details about their relationship. She could have done the apology and declared her love without doing all of that.
If you haven’t noticed it yet, I really don’t like the bitch and think the MMC can do way better than her.
Honestly, she’s so annoying, rude towards her friends and MMC in the beginning (trying to play it off as banter), queen of overreacting, just not a fun person to be around.
Her insecurities are all valid and it’s sad but this is by far one of the worst plus-size characters I have read about. There are way better books that represent the plus-size girlies. With actual characters that won’t make you want to scratch your eyes out while reading.
If I were the MMC I wouldn’t have forgiven her after what she did. She says in the end she wanted to tell him, but she was scared bla bla bla. Sis had so many opportunities to tell him because he asked her flat out what she was working on and every time she deflected or said something to minimize what she was doing.
She wrote a whole article about their relationship (sex-life) even though her boss “modified” some things on it, still doesn’t change the fact that she still wrote it. And then sis went so far to publish an apology which included again unnecessary details about their relationship. She could have done the apology and declared her love without doing all of that.
If you haven’t noticed it yet, I really don’t like the bitch and think the MMC can do way better than her.
July 12, 2023
Stella and Ben together are ELECTRIFYING. Seriously. The chemistry between them is top notch. I didn’t mind the slow burn at all BECAUSE all the mutual pining made it feel like they were already together.
Full review to come! This book was dang good.
Full review to come! This book was dang good.
March 25, 2023
DNF around 70% but wish I had stopped a lot sooner.
dnf
May 13, 2023dnf @ 30% - it's all about sex. there's hardly any substance to their actual relationship
June 10, 2023
Honestly the first half of the book was good but then the second half was really a drag!! Also tbh I did not like Stella’s friends Vanessa and Dylan they weren’t very good friend in my opinion
Read
July 3, 2023DNF - 47%
March 23, 2023
Stella and Ben have been work friends for some time. She secretly likes him. He secretly likes her. With an impeding article hanging over their heads and a common workplace to manage, things are deemed to get complicated.
The perfect romcom when you just need a pick me up, feel good escape.
This was such an incredible and a super steamy debut. The writing style made this one so easy to read and a guaranteed binge. It was so easy for me to loose myself in this book and only get shocked back to reality due to the stiffing neck pain that I stared to feel since I was hunched over the ipad for hours.
The banter was hilarious and entertaining. Top notch chemistry. Relatable characters. Spicy of the spiciness. Eyebrow wiggling worth flirting. A workplace delicious romance. Dual POV. No BS supporting friends. Oh yes, I am listing these out. Why you ask. I am in the middle of my pitch to sell you this book to get it right now!
There were a couple of topics touched upon in this read such as anxiety, body image, insecurities, struggles, and betrayal which Lexy handled so beautifully and voiced them in such a real manner. As a reader, I related to a few of those. Who never had one of their insecurities sneak up on them and make them feel they don’t deserve this, or they are not good enough. We all can fall a victim of so. It is tough, but it was so surreal to have this depicted so honestly in such a respectful way without generating pity.
I cheered for Stella all the way and it made my heart grow seeing her take that journey of self-love. Face and shed all those inner demons conquering them. A genuine strong character. And Ben was an angel, standing still being her rock and supporting through her journey. Simply letting her see and feel how deserving of love she is, as is. The appreciation he had for Stella was something else.
A message to the lovely Lexy. Please do keep in mind, I’m One Call Away (see what I did here) if you ever want to share with me your next and following books you will write in the future. I will gladly devour them all, with pleasure.
This comes out today on March 23rd. Let me tell you, you don’t want to miss out on it.
The perfect romcom when you just need a pick me up, feel good escape.
This was such an incredible and a super steamy debut. The writing style made this one so easy to read and a guaranteed binge. It was so easy for me to loose myself in this book and only get shocked back to reality due to the stiffing neck pain that I stared to feel since I was hunched over the ipad for hours.
The banter was hilarious and entertaining. Top notch chemistry. Relatable characters. Spicy of the spiciness. Eyebrow wiggling worth flirting. A workplace delicious romance. Dual POV. No BS supporting friends. Oh yes, I am listing these out. Why you ask. I am in the middle of my pitch to sell you this book to get it right now!
There were a couple of topics touched upon in this read such as anxiety, body image, insecurities, struggles, and betrayal which Lexy handled so beautifully and voiced them in such a real manner. As a reader, I related to a few of those. Who never had one of their insecurities sneak up on them and make them feel they don’t deserve this, or they are not good enough. We all can fall a victim of so. It is tough, but it was so surreal to have this depicted so honestly in such a respectful way without generating pity.
I cheered for Stella all the way and it made my heart grow seeing her take that journey of self-love. Face and shed all those inner demons conquering them. A genuine strong character. And Ben was an angel, standing still being her rock and supporting through her journey. Simply letting her see and feel how deserving of love she is, as is. The appreciation he had for Stella was something else.
A message to the lovely Lexy. Please do keep in mind, I’m One Call Away (see what I did here) if you ever want to share with me your next and following books you will write in the future. I will gladly devour them all, with pleasure.
This comes out today on March 23rd. Let me tell you, you don’t want to miss out on it.
March 22, 2023
“Take a chance on me, Stel.” SAY LESS!!!!!
This book had me giggling, blushing, and kicking my feet like a crazy person. I loved this book so much that I didn’t even want to finish it, but at the same time, I just couldn’t put it down because of how good it was. Every time I read a debut novel from an indie author I just wish with my entire heart that they get all the recognition they deserve, and I felt that with this book because it was a masterpiece.
I've said before how difficult it is for me to connect to an FMC, but with Stella, the connection happened right away. During the story, she constantly reminded me of myself, which made the connection feel much more intimate and unique. Because I've experienced the same emotions and have been in Stella's shoes, I felt a great deal of sympathy for her insecurities and anxiety. I truly appreciated the author's efforts to raise awareness of issues like body positivity and mental health since it made me feel seen and heard. I loved being a part of Stella's journey and watching how much she develops as the story goes on, conquering her anxieties and traumas. Stella Simone is a beautifully written character.
Oh my God, Benjamin Daniels you really are something else, the man of my dreams. My heart melts for him every time. The way he was so understanding and loving to Stella, you could tell how much he wanted to make her happy. That man has the dirtiest mouth and I was all in for that!!! Made my blush like a freaking tomato and got me SCREAMING like crazy. He praised the shit out of Stella every time and that made me giggle and kick my feet. Live laugh love Ben Daniels forever.
The final chapters got me sobbing like a baby, they were perfect. If you love a good workplace *very very steamy* romcom, then this is the one for you!!!
This book had me giggling, blushing, and kicking my feet like a crazy person. I loved this book so much that I didn’t even want to finish it, but at the same time, I just couldn’t put it down because of how good it was. Every time I read a debut novel from an indie author I just wish with my entire heart that they get all the recognition they deserve, and I felt that with this book because it was a masterpiece.
I've said before how difficult it is for me to connect to an FMC, but with Stella, the connection happened right away. During the story, she constantly reminded me of myself, which made the connection feel much more intimate and unique. Because I've experienced the same emotions and have been in Stella's shoes, I felt a great deal of sympathy for her insecurities and anxiety. I truly appreciated the author's efforts to raise awareness of issues like body positivity and mental health since it made me feel seen and heard. I loved being a part of Stella's journey and watching how much she develops as the story goes on, conquering her anxieties and traumas. Stella Simone is a beautifully written character.
Oh my God, Benjamin Daniels you really are something else, the man of my dreams. My heart melts for him every time. The way he was so understanding and loving to Stella, you could tell how much he wanted to make her happy. That man has the dirtiest mouth and I was all in for that!!! Made my blush like a freaking tomato and got me SCREAMING like crazy. He praised the shit out of Stella every time and that made me giggle and kick my feet. Live laugh love Ben Daniels forever.
The final chapters got me sobbing like a baby, they were perfect. If you love a good workplace *very very steamy* romcom, then this is the one for you!!!
March 19, 2023
This book was so good. I love a debut novel because I can tell how excited the author is to be writing! And it was so clear here. It had a little bit of everything which is my favorite! An office romance, mutual pining, plus size rep, anxiety rep, they have fantastic banter!! I loved Stella and Ben so much!
There’s something so good about when one of the main characters has been pining after the other forever, but apparently it’s just as good when they’ve BOTH been fighting their feelings! Both Stella and Ben have real trust issues, their exes did a number on both of them and it shows.
They were so good together! Even before they starting really diving into relationship territory. Their emails, daily phone calls, and their playful banter! They were FUN. And I was so glad they were able to maintain that the whole time!
I loved how upfront Ben was! He wanted Stella, and he wasn’t afraid to tell her. And Stella had good reason to be wary - her ex cheated on her and was emotional abusive for years so she just wasn’t ready, and it didn’t matter that she has been fantasizing about Ben for years. But once she was able to really realize that Ben did like her for her and gave in it was SO GOOD to see her be really happy.
She was so self aware and she loved herself, but it wasn’t easy. And it felt so honest and real. I loved reading those parts, because her journey wasn’t always fun but that’s real life.
Their boss was my least favorite part…and story wise it made sense! Someone needed to be the villain and she was a good one! As always it just sucks to see them face the thing that hurts them the most!
Thank you so much to Lexy Josephine for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
There’s something so good about when one of the main characters has been pining after the other forever, but apparently it’s just as good when they’ve BOTH been fighting their feelings! Both Stella and Ben have real trust issues, their exes did a number on both of them and it shows.
They were so good together! Even before they starting really diving into relationship territory. Their emails, daily phone calls, and their playful banter! They were FUN. And I was so glad they were able to maintain that the whole time!
I loved how upfront Ben was! He wanted Stella, and he wasn’t afraid to tell her. And Stella had good reason to be wary - her ex cheated on her and was emotional abusive for years so she just wasn’t ready, and it didn’t matter that she has been fantasizing about Ben for years. But once she was able to really realize that Ben did like her for her and gave in it was SO GOOD to see her be really happy.
She was so self aware and she loved herself, but it wasn’t easy. And it felt so honest and real. I loved reading those parts, because her journey wasn’t always fun but that’s real life.
Their boss was my least favorite part…and story wise it made sense! Someone needed to be the villain and she was a good one! As always it just sucks to see them face the thing that hurts them the most!
Thank you so much to Lexy Josephine for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 12, 2023
My Advice: Take a Chance on Stella and Ben
One Call Away is the incredible debut novel by author Lexy Josephine. It follows the lives of journalists Stella and Ben and their budding workplace romance. Think, How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days meets Tessa Bailey.
"Falling in love can break you open and piece you back together." *chefs kiss*
What you can expect:
Plus Size FMC
Strong and Steady MMC
Workplace Romance
Open Door
Sexy Phone-Sex Scene
Hilarious Banter
Cute Texts and Email Threads
References to Princess Diaries and Mean Girls, I mean, who doesn't love that?
Stella is a strong and vulnerable character who you'll root for from the beginning. Josephine depicts Stella's struggles with anxiety and body image after an emotionally abusive relationship in a beautiful and carefully balanced way.
Ben should be the standard for office romances everywhere. He is consistent and unwavering with a plan down to the minute, 9:03 to be exact. I also love that, from his perspective, we'd never know Stella's weight until it's brought up in a social situation. He always saw her for more than a number on a scale or the size of her clothes. Beautifully done.
This book is incredible. It tackled difficult topics without losing sight of who the characters were and the story they were destined to tell.
All in all, my vote is: Five Stars.
Can't wait to read more from Lexy Josephine.
One Call Away is the incredible debut novel by author Lexy Josephine. It follows the lives of journalists Stella and Ben and their budding workplace romance. Think, How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days meets Tessa Bailey.
"Falling in love can break you open and piece you back together." *chefs kiss*
What you can expect:
Plus Size FMC
Strong and Steady MMC
Workplace Romance
Open Door
Sexy Phone-Sex Scene
Hilarious Banter
Cute Texts and Email Threads
References to Princess Diaries and Mean Girls, I mean, who doesn't love that?
Stella is a strong and vulnerable character who you'll root for from the beginning. Josephine depicts Stella's struggles with anxiety and body image after an emotionally abusive relationship in a beautiful and carefully balanced way.
Ben should be the standard for office romances everywhere. He is consistent and unwavering with a plan down to the minute, 9:03 to be exact. I also love that, from his perspective, we'd never know Stella's weight until it's brought up in a social situation. He always saw her for more than a number on a scale or the size of her clothes. Beautifully done.
This book is incredible. It tackled difficult topics without losing sight of who the characters were and the story they were destined to tell.
All in all, my vote is: Five Stars.
Can't wait to read more from Lexy Josephine.
March 21, 2023
Rating: 4.25/5
Thank you Lexy for an ARC of your wonderful debut!
I love nothing more than good chemistry and, DAMN, Ben and Stella had it in spades. From page one, it was clear (to us, not them) that there was an attraction and their flirty banter throughout was on point. I loved the teasing and playful conversations bc it's just so satisfying to watch two people be at ease with each other, especially when that means they're comfortable enough to act a little silly. Go ahead, ask Ben what it means if your fav color is purple. 😉
I really appreciated that body image was part of Stella's story. Stella is plus size, a quality she accepts and embraces about herself but that doesn't mean she's free of moments when she struggles with her self-worth. It was realistic and spoke to the fact that all of us have something we're self-conscious of but we are no less beautiful or worthy of love. And Ben loved Stella through it all, eased her doubts, and reminded her that she was enough.
And Ben? He had his own insecurities. His past has made him wary of others and trusting people doesn't come easy to him. I appreciated that when Stella found out, she was mindful of it and when she messed up, she acknowledged her misstep and didn't give up. Just like Stella, Ben needed to know he was worth fighting for.
CN: open-door romance, anxiety, internalized and external fatphobia, infidelity (secondary character), emotional abuse
Thank you Lexy for an ARC of your wonderful debut!
I love nothing more than good chemistry and, DAMN, Ben and Stella had it in spades. From page one, it was clear (to us, not them) that there was an attraction and their flirty banter throughout was on point. I loved the teasing and playful conversations bc it's just so satisfying to watch two people be at ease with each other, especially when that means they're comfortable enough to act a little silly. Go ahead, ask Ben what it means if your fav color is purple. 😉
I really appreciated that body image was part of Stella's story. Stella is plus size, a quality she accepts and embraces about herself but that doesn't mean she's free of moments when she struggles with her self-worth. It was realistic and spoke to the fact that all of us have something we're self-conscious of but we are no less beautiful or worthy of love. And Ben loved Stella through it all, eased her doubts, and reminded her that she was enough.
And Ben? He had his own insecurities. His past has made him wary of others and trusting people doesn't come easy to him. I appreciated that when Stella found out, she was mindful of it and when she messed up, she acknowledged her misstep and didn't give up. Just like Stella, Ben needed to know he was worth fighting for.
CN: open-door romance, anxiety, internalized and external fatphobia, infidelity (secondary character), emotional abuse
April 4, 2025
The conflict was not realistic or believable. The fmc was so whiny and bases her self worth off male opinions, when she has supportive friends she’s just not listening to.
Also first date at Starbucks is crazy like I get it’s all coffee coffee coffee we work in a office blah blah but at least go to a local place and esp not Starbucks in this current world climate ffs.
And didn’t this all happen over a month? And they’re in love now? Like they barely went on dates they mainly fucked but also waited to do full penetration for some reason? Like straight to mutual oral but oh no we have to wait for penetration for some reason.
Characters weren’t really fleshed out enough which is part of why their romance is kinda unbelievable. As a plus sized bitch, we want more representation in literature but not like this lol. Not women who only accept validation from their male romantic partners and only whine about being fat while not doing anything to raise their own self confidence or rewrite their internal shame through therapy or actually accepting love and support from their friends who are trying to give it. No, I need a man to play with my tits for me to feel like I’m enough. Yeesh
Also first date at Starbucks is crazy like I get it’s all coffee coffee coffee we work in a office blah blah but at least go to a local place and esp not Starbucks in this current world climate ffs.
And didn’t this all happen over a month? And they’re in love now? Like they barely went on dates they mainly fucked but also waited to do full penetration for some reason? Like straight to mutual oral but oh no we have to wait for penetration for some reason.
Characters weren’t really fleshed out enough which is part of why their romance is kinda unbelievable. As a plus sized bitch, we want more representation in literature but not like this lol. Not women who only accept validation from their male romantic partners and only whine about being fat while not doing anything to raise their own self confidence or rewrite their internal shame through therapy or actually accepting love and support from their friends who are trying to give it. No, I need a man to play with my tits for me to feel like I’m enough. Yeesh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2023
Plot: 4
Engagement: 4
Characters: 4
Style: 4.25
Overall Rating: 4.06/5
Review: ARC review! If you're looking for a steamy contemporary romance with plenty of open door descriptive scenes mixed with some more serious moments of unpacking old relationship trauma and anxiety issues, look no further. As this indie author's first book, it doesn't disappoint. It reads very "How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days", a movie I adore, with the professional world romance/journalism/conflict angles. In this book, I appreciated the point of view of a character that I think readers will really identify with in Stella. The feeling of not being "good enough" or having anxiety over your body is definitely relatable. It's a boost of confidence to read about body positive male love interests as well (yeah Ben!).
Read if you like: spicy open door romance, dual POV, mutual crushes, body positivity, coworkers to lovers, getting over relationship trauma.
Engagement: 4
Characters: 4
Style: 4.25
Overall Rating: 4.06/5
Review: ARC review! If you're looking for a steamy contemporary romance with plenty of open door descriptive scenes mixed with some more serious moments of unpacking old relationship trauma and anxiety issues, look no further. As this indie author's first book, it doesn't disappoint. It reads very "How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days", a movie I adore, with the professional world romance/journalism/conflict angles. In this book, I appreciated the point of view of a character that I think readers will really identify with in Stella. The feeling of not being "good enough" or having anxiety over your body is definitely relatable. It's a boost of confidence to read about body positive male love interests as well (yeah Ben!).
Read if you like: spicy open door romance, dual POV, mutual crushes, body positivity, coworkers to lovers, getting over relationship trauma.
April 21, 2024
The spicy scenes are the only saving grace
The love story between the "I'm always oppressed" female lead and the whiny man-baby. Between the beginning of the story, where "everyone is fat phobic, that's why they don't like me and I'm single" to the beginning of the end where whiny man-baby doesn't even read the part in the article about how "he's the one" the entire book was borderline unreadable. The conflicts seemed contrived and unbelievable - even the main characters getting mad at the secondary characters for secretly setting the mains up. They just invited you both to the same speed-dating event. They didn't lock you in a room and say you couldn't come out until you had sex. Grow up. The sex scenes were the only good part of the book, and even that got annoying. I'm sorry, you eat her out on the first-ish date, but as long as you don't stick your dick in her, then it's not moving too fast?? What?? This entire book was just "I can't even."
The love story between the "I'm always oppressed" female lead and the whiny man-baby. Between the beginning of the story, where "everyone is fat phobic, that's why they don't like me and I'm single" to the beginning of the end where whiny man-baby doesn't even read the part in the article about how "he's the one" the entire book was borderline unreadable. The conflicts seemed contrived and unbelievable - even the main characters getting mad at the secondary characters for secretly setting the mains up. They just invited you both to the same speed-dating event. They didn't lock you in a room and say you couldn't come out until you had sex. Grow up. The sex scenes were the only good part of the book, and even that got annoying. I'm sorry, you eat her out on the first-ish date, but as long as you don't stick your dick in her, then it's not moving too fast?? What?? This entire book was just "I can't even."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2024
“I’ve always been told I’m too much, yet not enough. I’m always trying to fit someone else’s description of perfect.” ~ Stella
Stella has been in like with her coworker Ben for going on two years. Ever since that night in the break room where they almost kissed. Ben has recently broke up with his girlfriend after she betrayed him at the time as looked at this near kiss miss as a blessing. He just knew that Stella deserved more than to be a rebound. Stella hasn’t dated anyone since her boyfriend cheated on her a year ago. She is a plus size beauty and is trying to build her self esteem up after her lame ex broke her down. Now I’m telling you, Stella and Ben tried to deny the chemistry, but they couldn’t. This book has the angst, and a dirty mouth MMC who loves every inch of his women. I did shed some tear during the third act break up, but I’m the type that likes that.
* office romance
* small age gap
* grumpy sunshine
* plus size FMC
* filthy mouth MMC
* happy ending
😍😍😍😍😍😍
Stella has been in like with her coworker Ben for going on two years. Ever since that night in the break room where they almost kissed. Ben has recently broke up with his girlfriend after she betrayed him at the time as looked at this near kiss miss as a blessing. He just knew that Stella deserved more than to be a rebound. Stella hasn’t dated anyone since her boyfriend cheated on her a year ago. She is a plus size beauty and is trying to build her self esteem up after her lame ex broke her down. Now I’m telling you, Stella and Ben tried to deny the chemistry, but they couldn’t. This book has the angst, and a dirty mouth MMC who loves every inch of his women. I did shed some tear during the third act break up, but I’m the type that likes that.
* office romance
* small age gap
* grumpy sunshine
* plus size FMC
* filthy mouth MMC
* happy ending
😍😍😍😍😍😍
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