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The Insta Series #4
Insta Family
Meeting your birth family is nerve-racking. So, it’s helpful when tall, dark, and lovable shows up to hold your hand.
Coco had never planned to find her birth parents. But when Jude finds her—confessing that he knows her birth mother and he wants to set up a meeting, it’s suddenly all she can think about. Okay… maybe not all she’s thinking about. The messenger, Mr. Jude Taylor, himself, is pretty difficult to get off the brain.
Still, Coco’s working on becoming a partner at her clinic. She’s got friends and clients and a life—she can’t just pick up and leave. Can she?
Jude has enough on his plate—single dad, crazy ex, boring job. Yep—he’s got plenty to take up his time. But when his best friend’s mom asks him to do her a favor, he knows he’ll come to the rescue. Lucy has always been like another mom to him—often more supportive than his own mother. The only problem—Lucy’s favor is a big one. He isn’t running to the store to pick up groceries, but flying one thousand miles to find a stranger and inform her that he happens to know who her birth mother is.
That’s a big ask. Like a huge ask. What about his job? What about his daughter? It’s too much. So—of course he’ll do it. Yep, he’s the best… or maybe he’s just a sucker who can’t say no to Lucy Bailey.
But Jude is logical and organized. He’s got a plan. He can get this job done in less than a day. Or at least he could if Coco would follow along with the plan. It also isn’t helpful that somehow this girl, Lucy’s daughter is sending sparks throughout his sparkless body and forget tugging, Coco is the commander in control of Jude’s heartstrings.
But Jude has a daughter to consider and Coco has an entire family to get to know. This isn’t the right time or the right place to fall in love. Too bad his heart isn’t listening to logic.
Coco had never planned to find her birth parents. But when Jude finds her—confessing that he knows her birth mother and he wants to set up a meeting, it’s suddenly all she can think about. Okay… maybe not all she’s thinking about. The messenger, Mr. Jude Taylor, himself, is pretty difficult to get off the brain.
Still, Coco’s working on becoming a partner at her clinic. She’s got friends and clients and a life—she can’t just pick up and leave. Can she?
Jude has enough on his plate—single dad, crazy ex, boring job. Yep—he’s got plenty to take up his time. But when his best friend’s mom asks him to do her a favor, he knows he’ll come to the rescue. Lucy has always been like another mom to him—often more supportive than his own mother. The only problem—Lucy’s favor is a big one. He isn’t running to the store to pick up groceries, but flying one thousand miles to find a stranger and inform her that he happens to know who her birth mother is.
That’s a big ask. Like a huge ask. What about his job? What about his daughter? It’s too much. So—of course he’ll do it. Yep, he’s the best… or maybe he’s just a sucker who can’t say no to Lucy Bailey.
But Jude is logical and organized. He’s got a plan. He can get this job done in less than a day. Or at least he could if Coco would follow along with the plan. It also isn’t helpful that somehow this girl, Lucy’s daughter is sending sparks throughout his sparkless body and forget tugging, Coco is the commander in control of Jude’s heartstrings.
But Jude has a daughter to consider and Coco has an entire family to get to know. This isn’t the right time or the right place to fall in love. Too bad his heart isn’t listening to logic.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2023
136 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 1, 2023
I instantly fell in love with the characters in this adorable book, especially 5 year old Alice. She’s a scene stealer in a little body with a big personality, a huge vocabulary, and a lot of wisdom.
The storyline is by turns funny, sweet, and tender, and is a fabulous addition to this wonderful series.
Coco loves being a veterinarian, and is working on becoming a partner at her clinic. Her life takes a turn when a handsome stranger finds her, telling her he knows her birth mother and offers to take her to meet the family she’s known nothing about.
As a single dad, Jude has a lot going on, but he can’t say no to doing a favor for his best friend's mother. He feels an instant connection to Coco and falls hard for her, but he’s cautious about a relationship with her, always concerned about what’s best for Alice. Coco brings sparks to Jude’s carefully planned life, and I loved seeing his plans change and him getting a well deserved HEA.
What I loved:
Meet-cute
Found family
Coco’s quirky character
Jude’s tenderness
Brother's best friend
Dual pov
Sparkle punch
Devoted single dad
Pink dresses
Code names
The Bailey brothers
"I'll save you first."
This is part of the Insta series but can be read as a standalone.
TW: adoption, abandonment by parents
The storyline is by turns funny, sweet, and tender, and is a fabulous addition to this wonderful series.
Coco loves being a veterinarian, and is working on becoming a partner at her clinic. Her life takes a turn when a handsome stranger finds her, telling her he knows her birth mother and offers to take her to meet the family she’s known nothing about.
As a single dad, Jude has a lot going on, but he can’t say no to doing a favor for his best friend's mother. He feels an instant connection to Coco and falls hard for her, but he’s cautious about a relationship with her, always concerned about what’s best for Alice. Coco brings sparks to Jude’s carefully planned life, and I loved seeing his plans change and him getting a well deserved HEA.
What I loved:
Meet-cute
Found family
Coco’s quirky character
Jude’s tenderness
Brother's best friend
Dual pov
Sparkle punch
Devoted single dad
Pink dresses
Code names
The Bailey brothers
"I'll save you first."
This is part of the Insta series but can be read as a standalone.
TW: adoption, abandonment by parents
October 3, 2023
Y’all, this story…it’s everything sweet, wholesome and swoony!! It was bittersweet to finish, because I didn’t want my visit with Jude, Coco and Alice to end! These special characters have left a permanent imprint on my heart.
I was smitten with Jude! He was such a loving dad. His moments with Alice were some of my favorite scenes! They were just adorable together! He’s just an all-around lovable feller!
I was so glad for Coco to have her spotlight! I loved her quirky moments. Her love of animals was so sweet and showed how loving and passionate she was! Her connection with Alice was written so well! I loved their little talks and how easily they fit together!
Jude and Coco’s love story was my fav from this series! He was so tender with her and helped her connect with her family. Their chemistry was great and done to perfection! Some of my fav moments was with Jude, Coco and Alice together! Those scenes will melt your heart!
Okay, can I just say how adorable Alice was?!! Oh, mylanta! That little girl stole the show! Never a dull moment when she was on the page! Her cute, sassy self had me laughing till my side hurt!
Things I loved:
💜Dad-Head
💜Manure
💜Wet pants
💜Jet’s Sweats
💜Coco’s ticklish knee
💜Connect Four
💜Doggie drugs
💜Super Surprise Princess Punch
💜Code names
💜B-BFF
💜Lucy/Coco reunion
💜Levi the Jellybean
💜Alice’s smacker on the lips
💜The Bailey Brothers
💜Puppies
💜Kilogram Maturation
💜Butt smacks
💜Pink sequins
💜All the kisses
💜All the plane rides
Thank you @authorjenatkinson for bringing these sweet characters into our lives! So excited to read more about the Bailey Brothers in the future! Oh, they’re gonna be so good! Y’all, get your hands on this wonderful story asap!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
I was smitten with Jude! He was such a loving dad. His moments with Alice were some of my favorite scenes! They were just adorable together! He’s just an all-around lovable feller!
I was so glad for Coco to have her spotlight! I loved her quirky moments. Her love of animals was so sweet and showed how loving and passionate she was! Her connection with Alice was written so well! I loved their little talks and how easily they fit together!
Jude and Coco’s love story was my fav from this series! He was so tender with her and helped her connect with her family. Their chemistry was great and done to perfection! Some of my fav moments was with Jude, Coco and Alice together! Those scenes will melt your heart!
Okay, can I just say how adorable Alice was?!! Oh, mylanta! That little girl stole the show! Never a dull moment when she was on the page! Her cute, sassy self had me laughing till my side hurt!
Things I loved:
💜Dad-Head
💜Manure
💜Wet pants
💜Jet’s Sweats
💜Coco’s ticklish knee
💜Connect Four
💜Doggie drugs
💜Super Surprise Princess Punch
💜Code names
💜B-BFF
💜Lucy/Coco reunion
💜Levi the Jellybean
💜Alice’s smacker on the lips
💜The Bailey Brothers
💜Puppies
💜Kilogram Maturation
💜Butt smacks
💜Pink sequins
💜All the kisses
💜All the plane rides
Thank you @authorjenatkinson for bringing these sweet characters into our lives! So excited to read more about the Bailey Brothers in the future! Oh, they’re gonna be so good! Y’all, get your hands on this wonderful story asap!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
November 13, 2023
Another adorable story in the Insta series. Author Jen Atkinson has written a charming story that, as the title indicates, focuses on family and the importance of family. Family comes in all types of shapes and sizes and forms. This story covers topics of adoption, rejection, friendship to more, and finding the acceptance of a true family. Atkinson has written a story that will capture the heart of her readers. This is an excellent addition to the Insta Series. Readers will adore learning more about Coco and her life as a veterinarian, as well as her adoption story and meeting her birth mother. The sweetest story that readers will not want to miss out on.
Series: The Insta Series
Genre: contemporary, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: September 29
Number of pages: 318
Other books in the series:
1-{Insta} Boyfriend
2-{Insta} Connection
3-{Insta} Kiss
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
October 8, 2023
Oh! I loved this book so much! If you haven’t read a book by Jen Atkinson yet you definitely need to pick one up! Insta Family is my second book by her and it was quickly added to my list of favorite reads right next to her Insta Connection book! I was only 40 pages in and already smiling so big! It was so sweet, funny, and a real treat to read!
Lucy; Jude’s best friend’s mom, has been like a mother to Jude for most of his life. When she asks Jude to do her a favor he knows he must help her. Jude is a single dad who has built his life around his 5 year old daughter Alice. He can’t just think for himself and risk hurting her but then again he never expected to fall for Coco. Coco has never planned on meeting her birth parents; she is happy and content with the life she has, until she gets a message from a stranger claiming to know her birth mother and wanting Coco to contact her.
This story had so much heart and soul but also made me laugh countless times. I fell in love with Jude, Coco, and the irresistible Alice almost immediately! They were all so relatable, likable and felt like friends. Jude was the most loving and patient dad ever. I loved every single sweet scene between him and Alice. They were adorable together! The way he tried so hard to do everything right for her and be both dad and mom to her. I just couldn’t get enough.
I loved Coco's big heart, her passion for animals, and how well she connected to Alice and became a part of their lives. The romantic chemistry between her and Jude was simply amazing!!! Jude was super swoony and I can tell that he gives the best hugs! I loved all the hand holding with Coco. sigh. Jen Atkinson certainly knows how to write a book boyfriend. I love that we got treated to a kiss early on but then had to wait for more. The tension and the pacing of the book was just perfect. It's one of those books that you just want to keep reading because it is so good, but at the same time you never want it to end.
Favorite Moments:
Jude and Coco’s meeting - super funny and yet so sweet
Dance moms - “They’ll find me they’ll always find me!”
Pilot Jude - he will save Coco first and always bringing the Twizzlers
Jude and Alice’s connection
Coco meeting Alice
Connect 4 as a hobby
Jude wearing Jet’s sweatpants
Jude fangirling Jet
Coco and Jude’s amazing hugs
All the hand holding
Pink dresses
I really can’t say enough about this one. It is a beautiful story with so much depth and uniqueness to it. If you love sweet rom-coms you will devour this one and then you will want to go back and read the rest of the series. I know that's what I will be doing!
Content Awareness - adoption, abandonment by parents, Lucy has a kidney disease. All topics were handled very well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lucy; Jude’s best friend’s mom, has been like a mother to Jude for most of his life. When she asks Jude to do her a favor he knows he must help her. Jude is a single dad who has built his life around his 5 year old daughter Alice. He can’t just think for himself and risk hurting her but then again he never expected to fall for Coco. Coco has never planned on meeting her birth parents; she is happy and content with the life she has, until she gets a message from a stranger claiming to know her birth mother and wanting Coco to contact her.
This story had so much heart and soul but also made me laugh countless times. I fell in love with Jude, Coco, and the irresistible Alice almost immediately! They were all so relatable, likable and felt like friends. Jude was the most loving and patient dad ever. I loved every single sweet scene between him and Alice. They were adorable together! The way he tried so hard to do everything right for her and be both dad and mom to her. I just couldn’t get enough.
I loved Coco's big heart, her passion for animals, and how well she connected to Alice and became a part of their lives. The romantic chemistry between her and Jude was simply amazing!!! Jude was super swoony and I can tell that he gives the best hugs! I loved all the hand holding with Coco. sigh. Jen Atkinson certainly knows how to write a book boyfriend. I love that we got treated to a kiss early on but then had to wait for more. The tension and the pacing of the book was just perfect. It's one of those books that you just want to keep reading because it is so good, but at the same time you never want it to end.
Favorite Moments:
Jude and Coco’s meeting - super funny and yet so sweet
Dance moms - “They’ll find me they’ll always find me!”
Pilot Jude - he will save Coco first and always bringing the Twizzlers
Jude and Alice’s connection
Coco meeting Alice
Connect 4 as a hobby
Jude wearing Jet’s sweatpants
Jude fangirling Jet
Coco and Jude’s amazing hugs
All the hand holding
Pink dresses
I really can’t say enough about this one. It is a beautiful story with so much depth and uniqueness to it. If you love sweet rom-coms you will devour this one and then you will want to go back and read the rest of the series. I know that's what I will be doing!
Content Awareness - adoption, abandonment by parents, Lucy has a kidney disease. All topics were handled very well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 1, 2023
So much charged emotion! Lovable book!
This was really an emotional read. You have a mother, Lucy, trying to find and forge a relationship with the daughter she gave up for adoption. You have the daughter, Coco, who is well adjusted with her situation, loves her adopted mom, and yet has issues with men seeing her value. Then there is Jude who is seeking Coco to reunite her with her bio mom. His personal scars run deep as he feels like he doesn’t deserve to make himself happy but better to settle with making sure others are happy.
There’s lots of humor. Lots of animals. A slew of brothers, all different but lovable who are super cool and interesting and should have their own books. And an adorable little girl named Alice. I loved reading how Jude finds his person and Coco gets her insta family in more ways than one. It’s a sweet story and it had me crying happy tears at the end.
I have loved this whole series. It was nice to get glimpses at the previous books characters’ lives in this story. It is stand alone and you don’t need to read the other books first to appreciate this one.
Rating: PG, clean, only kissing, since there are some sensitive topics in the book there are lots of triggers for parental abandonment, adoption, divorce, and liver failure.
This was really an emotional read. You have a mother, Lucy, trying to find and forge a relationship with the daughter she gave up for adoption. You have the daughter, Coco, who is well adjusted with her situation, loves her adopted mom, and yet has issues with men seeing her value. Then there is Jude who is seeking Coco to reunite her with her bio mom. His personal scars run deep as he feels like he doesn’t deserve to make himself happy but better to settle with making sure others are happy.
There’s lots of humor. Lots of animals. A slew of brothers, all different but lovable who are super cool and interesting and should have their own books. And an adorable little girl named Alice. I loved reading how Jude finds his person and Coco gets her insta family in more ways than one. It’s a sweet story and it had me crying happy tears at the end.
I have loved this whole series. It was nice to get glimpses at the previous books characters’ lives in this story. It is stand alone and you don’t need to read the other books first to appreciate this one.
Rating: PG, clean, only kissing, since there are some sensitive topics in the book there are lots of triggers for parental abandonment, adoption, divorce, and liver failure.
September 28, 2023
“I’ve got a plan. Are you in Jude Taylor?”
If you ever want to fall in love with characters instantly-this is the book that will do it! There are quite a few characters and readers will see a lot of them through this adorable, dual POV romance!!
I loved seeing Jude’s world. This is a single parent trope romance and Jude’s character mixed with Alice’s spunky personality is one of the best things to happen to this trope! I loved the ‘brother(s) from another mother’ vibe and connection. They Bailey brothers (and Lucy🫶🏼) have such a great family vibe. They were endearing and I hope we eventually get a spin-off for every brother in that family!!
Coco is hilarious. Her veterinary stories grossing everyone out is so funny. She is a character that you are drawn to instantly. I loved her connection to the other characters in this series and LOVED seeing so much of them too!
I loved everything about this one! This series has been top notch entertainment that I never want to end!
Read this for a super fun, entertaining, swoon-worthy romance!
Have you been reading the {Insta} series by Jen Atkinson? There are 3 books of amazingness before this one and I highly recommend them all!!
**Also, there is a random side character named Evan in this one who totally deserves a book of his own!! He is awesome.
{Insta}Family by Jen Atkinson is available TOMORROW on ebook-paperbacks are shipping now😘
Content: premarital intimacy resulting in pregnancy mentioned with a couple characters (NO DETAILS), irresponsible ex, adorable found family vibes, swoony romance, kisses only.
If you ever want to fall in love with characters instantly-this is the book that will do it! There are quite a few characters and readers will see a lot of them through this adorable, dual POV romance!!
I loved seeing Jude’s world. This is a single parent trope romance and Jude’s character mixed with Alice’s spunky personality is one of the best things to happen to this trope! I loved the ‘brother(s) from another mother’ vibe and connection. They Bailey brothers (and Lucy🫶🏼) have such a great family vibe. They were endearing and I hope we eventually get a spin-off for every brother in that family!!
Coco is hilarious. Her veterinary stories grossing everyone out is so funny. She is a character that you are drawn to instantly. I loved her connection to the other characters in this series and LOVED seeing so much of them too!
I loved everything about this one! This series has been top notch entertainment that I never want to end!
Read this for a super fun, entertaining, swoon-worthy romance!
Have you been reading the {Insta} series by Jen Atkinson? There are 3 books of amazingness before this one and I highly recommend them all!!
**Also, there is a random side character named Evan in this one who totally deserves a book of his own!! He is awesome.
{Insta}Family by Jen Atkinson is available TOMORROW on ebook-paperbacks are shipping now😘
Content: premarital intimacy resulting in pregnancy mentioned with a couple characters (NO DETAILS), irresponsible ex, adorable found family vibes, swoony romance, kisses only.
September 25, 2023
Insta Family is the fourth book in the Insta series. It features Cora Coalfield AKA Coco, a Denver-based veterinarian who knows she is adopted. She has never had any inkling to seek out her birth mother, though. But now, at the age of 27 years old, she is getting Instagram messages from a man claiming to know her birth mother and that she would like to meet.
Jude Taylor lives in Idaho and has been almost family to Lucy Bailey and her sons since he was a young boy. Now, as a single father, he is still very close to them. Lucy is going through kidney failure and wants to meet the daughter she gave up for adoption and she asks Jude to help her.
This is such a wonderful romance that deals with finding family and being brave enough to put yourself first. This is a clean romance but has some sweet chemistry and secret hand holding between Jude and Coco. Plus, there is the cutest almost six-year-old named Alice ever! Seriously, she is so adorable and shines on every page she is in. I am so glad that the Bailey brothers (Levi, Cooper, Owen and Miles) will each be getting their own story.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jude Taylor lives in Idaho and has been almost family to Lucy Bailey and her sons since he was a young boy. Now, as a single father, he is still very close to them. Lucy is going through kidney failure and wants to meet the daughter she gave up for adoption and she asks Jude to help her.
This is such a wonderful romance that deals with finding family and being brave enough to put yourself first. This is a clean romance but has some sweet chemistry and secret hand holding between Jude and Coco. Plus, there is the cutest almost six-year-old named Alice ever! Seriously, she is so adorable and shines on every page she is in. I am so glad that the Bailey brothers (Levi, Cooper, Owen and Miles) will each be getting their own story.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 3, 2023
Holy Moly, this is a fantastic read! It’s a found family story but in more than one way and I LOVED IT!! Plus you had a precocious little girl who was basically an MC all on her own with her adorableness. Coco and Jude are a wonderful couple, beginning as unexpected friends with some great conversation and the possibility of more if they’re brave enough to go for it. Jude is the ultimate good guy, giving of himself to a fault for those he cares about and Coco helps him see that choosing something for himself is not selfish. And Jude, in turn, helps Coco learn to be brave about life and family. The dynamics of this whole group, both friends and family, was so very well written. It was real, raw, honest and so beautiful to see. The love journey was just so sweet too. Coco and Jude didn’t even realize they needed someone else and the unexpectedness of their love was marvelous to read. Definitely get this one on your TBR, friends, you don’t want to miss it!!
I received a complimentary ARC of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
September 29, 2023
This is my first book from the amazing Jen Atkinson. I can’t wait to read more as soon as I can.
Jude is the father and the mother to sweet Alice. And he sacrifices himself in the process. He’s an amazing, caring father and I think I loved that most about him. I adored Coco. I loved that she’s a vet and didn’t mind getting dirty.
There’s some wonderfully funny and sweet heartwarming moments through the whole book as Coco navigates getting to know her birth mom and brothers. I highlighted so many scenes. Coco’s fear of flying is written in such a way you feel sorry for her but you’re also laughing. I loved Levi (aka Oscar). He quickly really grew on me. But my favorite was Alice. She stole the show and she was written so well. I especially loved Code Names, BBFF, the pink dresses. Alice reminded me of my niece at that age. I hope to watch her grow up in the upcoming books. Oh and I can’t forget about Lucy. 💜
I received an ebook from the author. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
Jude is the father and the mother to sweet Alice. And he sacrifices himself in the process. He’s an amazing, caring father and I think I loved that most about him. I adored Coco. I loved that she’s a vet and didn’t mind getting dirty.
There’s some wonderfully funny and sweet heartwarming moments through the whole book as Coco navigates getting to know her birth mom and brothers. I highlighted so many scenes. Coco’s fear of flying is written in such a way you feel sorry for her but you’re also laughing. I loved Levi (aka Oscar). He quickly really grew on me. But my favorite was Alice. She stole the show and she was written so well. I especially loved Code Names, BBFF, the pink dresses. Alice reminded me of my niece at that age. I hope to watch her grow up in the upcoming books. Oh and I can’t forget about Lucy. 💜
I received an ebook from the author. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
February 21, 2026
The Insta series is one that is best read in order. It should also be read before The Bailey Brother's series, as that is a spin-off series to this one. However, ALL books in both series should be read 😁.
Lucy Bailey asks a huge favor of Jude, and because she is like a mother to him, and a grandmother to his daughter Alice, he agrees. He has no way of knowing how life changing this is going to be for him.
Coco is happily living her own life, when Jude barges in, insisting she needs to meet Lucy. Coco is hesitant, but finally agrees.
This story is the sweetest and will pull on your heart strings, and you might even shed a few tears (I did). I guarantee you will also laugh. I absolutely love Alice, has stolen the show in every book she has been in, and she makes me laugh so much.
I loved this sweet story and it gets all my stars.
Lucy Bailey asks a huge favor of Jude, and because she is like a mother to him, and a grandmother to his daughter Alice, he agrees. He has no way of knowing how life changing this is going to be for him.
Coco is happily living her own life, when Jude barges in, insisting she needs to meet Lucy. Coco is hesitant, but finally agrees.
This story is the sweetest and will pull on your heart strings, and you might even shed a few tears (I did). I guarantee you will also laugh. I absolutely love Alice, has stolen the show in every book she has been in, and she makes me laugh so much.
I loved this sweet story and it gets all my stars.
February 7, 2024
ALL the FEELS
How do they keep getting better?!? This was absolutely downright fabulous.
Ugh the whole Relative Race meets RomCom thing was sooo heartwarming and had me crying and squealing it was so good.
Jude - ohhhh man I LOVE ME a single dad romance and especially with a single dad who is like Jude. 👏👏 Yay for fantastic fatherhood representation!
Coco - girl's got guts with her vet job and a heart of gold and man oh mmaaannn do I just love her and her family.
This book was so touching. So heartwarming. So endearing and don't even get me started on Alice!
Seriously. Fabulous read.
Well done.
Can't wait to read the Bailey Brothers series!
👄Kisses
⚠️Abandonment by parent/spouse, adoption, divorce
How do they keep getting better?!? This was absolutely downright fabulous.
Ugh the whole Relative Race meets RomCom thing was sooo heartwarming and had me crying and squealing it was so good.
Jude - ohhhh man I LOVE ME a single dad romance and especially with a single dad who is like Jude. 👏👏 Yay for fantastic fatherhood representation!
Coco - girl's got guts with her vet job and a heart of gold and man oh mmaaannn do I just love her and her family.
This book was so touching. So heartwarming. So endearing and don't even get me started on Alice!
Seriously. Fabulous read.
Well done.
Can't wait to read the Bailey Brothers series!
👄Kisses
⚠️Abandonment by parent/spouse, adoption, divorce
October 2, 2025
My Bailey Family loving heart was so happy to read this! Jude is asked by his pseudo-mother to reach out to her daughter that she gave up for adoption, Coco. Coco is reluctant both meeting her birth family and falling in love, but Jude is persistent! The sweetness of this story balances the heavier topics so well, and the OG Alice stole the show with her cute and witty sayings and antics. Having read the Bailey Brother series before this book, I absolutely loved getting the background on them in Jude and Coco’s story. 4.25 stars
Thanks to the auntie for the gifted copy
Thanks to the auntie for the gifted copy
August 6, 2024
So cute! Fun idea . Romance was so fun. I had some really sweet moments together. This house fun chemistry. Not sure I believe the 5-year-old would talk like that. My granddaughter is five and she does not talk like that. This is an author I will definitely read again
January 28, 2024
DNF @ 30% (may return to finish another time)
I have a hard time understanding how this is the author's fourth, at least, book. It could have surely used another edit for clarity. I am not an author but I'm sure writing a book is not an easy process and I don't mean to bash the author's efforts, but I had a hard time reading this story, even just a quarter of it. I feel a test reader could have spotted these inconsistencies and helped get them corrected before publishing. Or maybe it's just me that noticed.
Talked about someone named Hazel - had no idea who that was, then later in the chapter specified it was one of the character's dogs. The sentence detailing that could have easily been moved to earlier in the chapter when Hazel was initially mentioned. (This is the fourth book in a series, and I didn't read the first three so maybe I would have known that if I had.)
Characters are playing Connect Four, which I thought was a game with red and yellow pieces, and although yellow pieces are initially mentioned, one player is using black pieces, then it's written that they are using black and red game pieces. That's checkers, not Connect Four. And what happened to the yellow pieces written about a page earlier?
A driver pointed with their left hand and also shifted into drive with their left hand. Sure you could do both, but this is based in the US, not UK, so not likely.
These are three examples in the first 30% of the book, but there were other confusing elements leading up to this. It detracted from the story, especially when I had to reread lines and paragraphs multiple times in order to try and understand what was happening. I'm glad I borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited and didn't buy it, sorry to say.
Debated between 2 and 3 stars, but the story was pretty good, the execution just needed more work.
I have a hard time understanding how this is the author's fourth, at least, book. It could have surely used another edit for clarity. I am not an author but I'm sure writing a book is not an easy process and I don't mean to bash the author's efforts, but I had a hard time reading this story, even just a quarter of it. I feel a test reader could have spotted these inconsistencies and helped get them corrected before publishing. Or maybe it's just me that noticed.
Talked about someone named Hazel - had no idea who that was, then later in the chapter specified it was one of the character's dogs. The sentence detailing that could have easily been moved to earlier in the chapter when Hazel was initially mentioned. (This is the fourth book in a series, and I didn't read the first three so maybe I would have known that if I had.)
Characters are playing Connect Four, which I thought was a game with red and yellow pieces, and although yellow pieces are initially mentioned, one player is using black pieces, then it's written that they are using black and red game pieces. That's checkers, not Connect Four. And what happened to the yellow pieces written about a page earlier?
A driver pointed with their left hand and also shifted into drive with their left hand. Sure you could do both, but this is based in the US, not UK, so not likely.
These are three examples in the first 30% of the book, but there were other confusing elements leading up to this. It detracted from the story, especially when I had to reread lines and paragraphs multiple times in order to try and understand what was happening. I'm glad I borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited and didn't buy it, sorry to say.
Debated between 2 and 3 stars, but the story was pretty good, the execution just needed more work.
September 22, 2025
I loved this book! I actually read the Insta series way out of order, so Coco’s was the first one that I read. Even though it was not the first one, I loved the characters so much. I wasn’t confused at all, and it made me want to see everyone’s stories.
I loved Coco! I can’t imagine what it would be like to find a new family, but she handled it all with so much grace. I loved her spirit and her love for animals. She truly loved her job, and I think her enthusiasm was super fun to watch. Her struggles with deciding whether to even meet her siblings felt really real. I think even her struggles with Levi in the beginning made sense for the story.
I loved Jude! He was just the sweetest book boyfriend. I really liked how he genuinely cared for Coco even in the beginning. The insta attraction was out of character for him, and he didn’t know what to do with his feelings. I think his hesitation really made sense for his character especially because he had Alice to worry about. I loved Alice! She is so funny, and her advice was so wise for a little five year old. I think her character made sense for her age, and I like how she was written like a kid.
The Bailey family is the sweetest! I love how they supported each other and welcomed Coco in. I think Lucy’s decision made a lot of sense for her character, and I love her and Coco’s connection. I cannot wait to see all of the Bailey brothers find love. This is a clean romance which is a part of a series but can be read standalone.
I loved Coco! I can’t imagine what it would be like to find a new family, but she handled it all with so much grace. I loved her spirit and her love for animals. She truly loved her job, and I think her enthusiasm was super fun to watch. Her struggles with deciding whether to even meet her siblings felt really real. I think even her struggles with Levi in the beginning made sense for the story.
I loved Jude! He was just the sweetest book boyfriend. I really liked how he genuinely cared for Coco even in the beginning. The insta attraction was out of character for him, and he didn’t know what to do with his feelings. I think his hesitation really made sense for his character especially because he had Alice to worry about. I loved Alice! She is so funny, and her advice was so wise for a little five year old. I think her character made sense for her age, and I like how she was written like a kid.
The Bailey family is the sweetest! I love how they supported each other and welcomed Coco in. I think Lucy’s decision made a lot of sense for her character, and I love her and Coco’s connection. I cannot wait to see all of the Bailey brothers find love. This is a clean romance which is a part of a series but can be read standalone.
October 24, 2023
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Jude & Coco’s points of view
– Coco enjoys all aspects of her job as a veterinarian, and especially likes talking about the gross parts
– Coco’s biological mom has slow-progressing kidney failure
– Coco was adopted; the father figure left a month after she was adopted
– Jude’s ex and her older boyfriend allow Alice (Jude’s 5 year old daughter) to watch things she shouldn’t & aren’t very attentive to her
Review:
I adored this book and it’s characters so much! Alice (Jude’s daughter) was not only adorable, but also very funny in her blunt or off-handed comments! I loved her the absolute most out of everyone (though they all follow very close behind!). I loved the development of Coco & Jude’s romance and how their challenges and everyday life shaped them and their relationship. I loved that Coco’s biological family took to her so readily (well, except for Levi) and that once they all decided that she was theirs (not just by blood) they would do anything to keep connected with her. I loved that once Levi came around to the whole idea, he was so protective of Coco! I loved that he practically demanded that they couldn’t date each other, but was also understanding when Coco later put her foot down and explained to him why it was such a bad idea for him to have done that for both her and Jude. I am sooo excited that the Bailey boys will be getting their own series next and that we’ll likely see more of Alice, Jude, & Coco because of how close everyone is!
Summary:
Coco has always known she was adopted, but never had the desire to seek out her birth parents since her mom took such good care of her. But when Coco is contacted by someone that claims to know her birth mom and wants to set up a meeting between them, she can’t get the idea out of her head. When Jude comes in person to try and sway her towards accepting the meeting, Coco is even more intrigued by the idea. Who wouldn’t want to get to know their birth parent if someone was willing to go this above and beyond for the person? Especially with the messenger being as kind and handsome as Jude is?
Jude loves Lucy Bailey like she were his own mother, because she was even better than the woman that raised him. So when Lucy asks Jude to contact her biological daughter that she gave away when she was young so that they can meet, Jude is surprised but willing to take on the challenge. Even though he has work and needs to care for his daughter, Jude makes it work with the help of Lucy and her family. He just never expected to fall for the Lucy’s daughter in the process. Which is a problem not only because of her brother being Jude’s best friend, but also because they live so far away from one another and neither are looking to make a move with the goals they have for their lives. Can they make their connection work or will they have to pass each other by?
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Jude & Coco’s points of view
– Coco enjoys all aspects of her job as a veterinarian, and especially likes talking about the gross parts
– Coco’s biological mom has slow-progressing kidney failure
– Coco was adopted; the father figure left a month after she was adopted
– Jude’s ex and her older boyfriend allow Alice (Jude’s 5 year old daughter) to watch things she shouldn’t & aren’t very attentive to her
Review:
I adored this book and it’s characters so much! Alice (Jude’s daughter) was not only adorable, but also very funny in her blunt or off-handed comments! I loved her the absolute most out of everyone (though they all follow very close behind!). I loved the development of Coco & Jude’s romance and how their challenges and everyday life shaped them and their relationship. I loved that Coco’s biological family took to her so readily (well, except for Levi) and that once they all decided that she was theirs (not just by blood) they would do anything to keep connected with her. I loved that once Levi came around to the whole idea, he was so protective of Coco! I loved that he practically demanded that they couldn’t date each other, but was also understanding when Coco later put her foot down and explained to him why it was such a bad idea for him to have done that for both her and Jude. I am sooo excited that the Bailey boys will be getting their own series next and that we’ll likely see more of Alice, Jude, & Coco because of how close everyone is!
Summary:
Coco has always known she was adopted, but never had the desire to seek out her birth parents since her mom took such good care of her. But when Coco is contacted by someone that claims to know her birth mom and wants to set up a meeting between them, she can’t get the idea out of her head. When Jude comes in person to try and sway her towards accepting the meeting, Coco is even more intrigued by the idea. Who wouldn’t want to get to know their birth parent if someone was willing to go this above and beyond for the person? Especially with the messenger being as kind and handsome as Jude is?
Jude loves Lucy Bailey like she were his own mother, because she was even better than the woman that raised him. So when Lucy asks Jude to contact her biological daughter that she gave away when she was young so that they can meet, Jude is surprised but willing to take on the challenge. Even though he has work and needs to care for his daughter, Jude makes it work with the help of Lucy and her family. He just never expected to fall for the Lucy’s daughter in the process. Which is a problem not only because of her brother being Jude’s best friend, but also because they live so far away from one another and neither are looking to make a move with the goals they have for their lives. Can they make their connection work or will they have to pass each other by?
June 30, 2025
This was a nice quick read.
I don't have too much to say, as I think I've settled into a rhythm with Atkinson's books, and the things I like about her writing is consistent through each of her works, and so my overall enjoyment comes down to if I like the characters.
With this one I definitely like Coco/Cora and Jude. I really appreciated how grounded this was (which is something I think is also consistent with the other books I've read from Atkinson). In this case, Coco was adopted out as a young baby and she had a great upbringing, so is enormously shocked when someone claiming to know her birth mother reaches out for a meeting. I enjoyed seeing Coco work through her anxieties and misgivings of even entertaining the conversation, along with Jude's frustrations about how long it takes to convince her to give it a go. Coco's feelings make perfect sense and you feel a deep sense of empathy for her. But you also understand why Jude has his own perspective.
Coco getting to know her birth mum and brothers she never knew she had was easily one of my favourite parts of the read.
Of course we also have the pairing, which I also really enjoyed. In keeping with the other books I've read from Atkinson, I also enjoyed that the main romance lent itself to character growth and development, in this case Coco challenging some of Jude's self-sacrificing habits. Always a fan of healthy people lending themselves towards healthy relationships.
I think the reason Atkinson's books tend to get 4 stars from me (as opposed to 5) is at times there's a little bit of a shortcut in the initial meeting of our main characters. How to explain? In this Jude is drawn to Coco from the moment he clocks eyes on her, and to a slightly lesser degree so is Coco towards Jude. This is not at all to say the relationship isn't developed and earned, but that little bit of inexplicable kinship always takes me out of the story a smidge. And really only a smidge. It doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the story, it's me grasping at straws to figure out why although I liked this a whole lot, it's not a 5 star feeling book for me.
I don't have too much to say, as I think I've settled into a rhythm with Atkinson's books, and the things I like about her writing is consistent through each of her works, and so my overall enjoyment comes down to if I like the characters.
With this one I definitely like Coco/Cora and Jude. I really appreciated how grounded this was (which is something I think is also consistent with the other books I've read from Atkinson). In this case, Coco was adopted out as a young baby and she had a great upbringing, so is enormously shocked when someone claiming to know her birth mother reaches out for a meeting. I enjoyed seeing Coco work through her anxieties and misgivings of even entertaining the conversation, along with Jude's frustrations about how long it takes to convince her to give it a go. Coco's feelings make perfect sense and you feel a deep sense of empathy for her. But you also understand why Jude has his own perspective.
Coco getting to know her birth mum and brothers she never knew she had was easily one of my favourite parts of the read.
Of course we also have the pairing, which I also really enjoyed. In keeping with the other books I've read from Atkinson, I also enjoyed that the main romance lent itself to character growth and development, in this case Coco challenging some of Jude's self-sacrificing habits. Always a fan of healthy people lending themselves towards healthy relationships.
I think the reason Atkinson's books tend to get 4 stars from me (as opposed to 5) is at times there's a little bit of a shortcut in the initial meeting of our main characters. How to explain? In this Jude is drawn to Coco from the moment he clocks eyes on her, and to a slightly lesser degree so is Coco towards Jude. This is not at all to say the relationship isn't developed and earned, but that little bit of inexplicable kinship always takes me out of the story a smidge. And really only a smidge. It doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the story, it's me grasping at straws to figure out why although I liked this a whole lot, it's not a 5 star feeling book for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2024
I think this book flips a common trope on its head to some degree, instead of ‘Found Family’ this story is more of ‘Discovering Family’! When Lucy Bailey makes up her mind, she lets almost nothing stand in her way, including her own sons! Lucy persuades Jude Taylor to find a way to reach out to her daughter, she was forced to adopt out, named Cora! Sounds straight forward, but as with most of Jen Atkinson’s books, it’s never that simple…
Jude is a single dad to Alice and loyal friend to all of Lucy’s sons (especially Levi), as she served as a secondary mom to him growing up! He doesn’t completely understand how he got tasked to find this long-lost child, but he’d do just about anything for Lucy…even using his own daughter’s spring break to track her down in person after exchanging minimal DMs with the woman! When the best laid plans don’t go completely as expected, Jude must allow things to get a little messy to make the reunion happen!
Coco (Cora – birth name) is a hardworking veterinarian, dedicated friend to Iris, Ebony, and Beth! Her life seemed be going fine until received DMs from a stranger claiming to know her birth mother- that’s really where this story takes off! Against her better judgment Coco lets her friends convince her to reply to Jude’s DMs and fly (straight up fear) to meet Lucy! While generally accepted by her birth family, Levi seems to be the lone wolf who keeps her at arm’s length! The more time she spends with them, the stronger the connections grow in ways Coco never expected!
I love that this story is more than just two people finding out they are attracted to each other, that it’s finding that you belong to something bigger than yourself! Also, that it is important to note, that sometimes it’s okay to go after the big dreams you were too afraid to pursue! Jen Atkinson does such a great job of giving snippets of the Bailey brothers’ personalities that you can’t help but want more…then you find out they will each be getting a book in the next series, yes please!
Jude is a single dad to Alice and loyal friend to all of Lucy’s sons (especially Levi), as she served as a secondary mom to him growing up! He doesn’t completely understand how he got tasked to find this long-lost child, but he’d do just about anything for Lucy…even using his own daughter’s spring break to track her down in person after exchanging minimal DMs with the woman! When the best laid plans don’t go completely as expected, Jude must allow things to get a little messy to make the reunion happen!
Coco (Cora – birth name) is a hardworking veterinarian, dedicated friend to Iris, Ebony, and Beth! Her life seemed be going fine until received DMs from a stranger claiming to know her birth mother- that’s really where this story takes off! Against her better judgment Coco lets her friends convince her to reply to Jude’s DMs and fly (straight up fear) to meet Lucy! While generally accepted by her birth family, Levi seems to be the lone wolf who keeps her at arm’s length! The more time she spends with them, the stronger the connections grow in ways Coco never expected!
I love that this story is more than just two people finding out they are attracted to each other, that it’s finding that you belong to something bigger than yourself! Also, that it is important to note, that sometimes it’s okay to go after the big dreams you were too afraid to pursue! Jen Atkinson does such a great job of giving snippets of the Bailey brothers’ personalities that you can’t help but want more…then you find out they will each be getting a book in the next series, yes please!
October 2, 2023
"I just don't want you to settle. Don't settle for data processing. And don't settle for me because I please Alice. I want to be loved, Jude. For me." His fingers slip into mine. "That sounds like the easiest request ever."
"He misses you. He doesn't have anyone's hand to hold without you."
I sniff, and the tears filling up my eyes leak out. "He could hold your hand."
"He does. But I'm not a big person. He needs a hand that fits his just right. That's yours."
"She looks as if she's been standing next to the Bailey boys her entire life. And if I'd met her at twelve years old, when I met Levi, I'm pretty sure I would have fallen in love with her then too."
Read if you like:
* Dual POV
* Brother's best friend
* Found family (in more than one way)
* Single dad
* Witty banter
* Swoony kisses
* Part of a series / can be read as a stand alone
This book hit me with all the feels. Insta Family is found family in more than one way and it's beautiful. I love the family dynamic that Jen Atkinson created with so many fun and unique characters. Alice hits the top of that list for me. She is precocious, brilliant and charming. I loved watching the relationship develop between Jude and Coco and how it sparked immediate attraction but also snuck up on them. They are so good for each other.
Favorites:
* Alice!!!
* Coco's work stories
* He's a big dork, just like you
* Hugging champ
* Code names: Oscar, Hiccup, Sonny, Clifford, and Blue
* I'll save you first
* Stalker Joe
* B-BFFs
* Graduation outfits
* Spilling secrets on Trazadone
* Next time comfort my elbow
* The Bailey brothers
* First meeting
* Jet Jacobson's pants
* Epilogues
Insta Family is packed with so many loveable characters that I didn't want it to end, so I was really excited to find out that there will be a spin off series for the Bailey Boys!
"He misses you. He doesn't have anyone's hand to hold without you."
I sniff, and the tears filling up my eyes leak out. "He could hold your hand."
"He does. But I'm not a big person. He needs a hand that fits his just right. That's yours."
"She looks as if she's been standing next to the Bailey boys her entire life. And if I'd met her at twelve years old, when I met Levi, I'm pretty sure I would have fallen in love with her then too."
Read if you like:
* Dual POV
* Brother's best friend
* Found family (in more than one way)
* Single dad
* Witty banter
* Swoony kisses
* Part of a series / can be read as a stand alone
This book hit me with all the feels. Insta Family is found family in more than one way and it's beautiful. I love the family dynamic that Jen Atkinson created with so many fun and unique characters. Alice hits the top of that list for me. She is precocious, brilliant and charming. I loved watching the relationship develop between Jude and Coco and how it sparked immediate attraction but also snuck up on them. They are so good for each other.
Favorites:
* Alice!!!
* Coco's work stories
* He's a big dork, just like you
* Hugging champ
* Code names: Oscar, Hiccup, Sonny, Clifford, and Blue
* I'll save you first
* Stalker Joe
* B-BFFs
* Graduation outfits
* Spilling secrets on Trazadone
* Next time comfort my elbow
* The Bailey brothers
* First meeting
* Jet Jacobson's pants
* Epilogues
Insta Family is packed with so many loveable characters that I didn't want it to end, so I was really excited to find out that there will be a spin off series for the Bailey Boys!
October 10, 2023
4.5 Stars
Insta Family, book four in the Insta Series, is written by author Jen Atkinson. It’s a wonderful, sweet, romantic comedy that will give you warm fuzzies. What better way to bring in the holidays than with a book about family?
Insta Family is a dual PoV, shared between Coco and Jude. Coco, one of the local veterinarians, is approached via text by a stranger asking if she wants to meet her birth mom. At this point, Coco had never really considered meeting her birth mom because she had the perfect adoptive mother and never wanted to hurt her. Jude, the single dad to Alice and a close friend to Coco’s birth family, was chosen to reach out to Coco. After a series of text messages and a surprise trip to see Coco, Jude convinces her to meet Lucy, her birth mom, and her brothers.
The story was adorable and had me laughing many times. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Jude and his daughter Alice. Alice is a brilliant 5-year-old who loves her grandma, Lucy, and uncles. Jude struggles with shared custody with his vapid ex, who only wants Alice when it's convenient for her. Jude is super awkward and has such a great heart. The interaction between him and Coco is swoon-worthy!
I rooted for Lucy and hoped Coco would accept her new family with open arms. Lucy reminds me a lot of my mom. While a few sensitive topics were discussed, I think it remained pretty lighthearted and made my heart happy. Also, who doesn’t love a HEA?! Thank you, Jen, for writing another warm, cozy hug of a book!
Thank you to Jen Atkinson for gifting me an eARC of Insta Family. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Insta Family, book four in the Insta Series, is written by author Jen Atkinson. It’s a wonderful, sweet, romantic comedy that will give you warm fuzzies. What better way to bring in the holidays than with a book about family?
Insta Family is a dual PoV, shared between Coco and Jude. Coco, one of the local veterinarians, is approached via text by a stranger asking if she wants to meet her birth mom. At this point, Coco had never really considered meeting her birth mom because she had the perfect adoptive mother and never wanted to hurt her. Jude, the single dad to Alice and a close friend to Coco’s birth family, was chosen to reach out to Coco. After a series of text messages and a surprise trip to see Coco, Jude convinces her to meet Lucy, her birth mom, and her brothers.
The story was adorable and had me laughing many times. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Jude and his daughter Alice. Alice is a brilliant 5-year-old who loves her grandma, Lucy, and uncles. Jude struggles with shared custody with his vapid ex, who only wants Alice when it's convenient for her. Jude is super awkward and has such a great heart. The interaction between him and Coco is swoon-worthy!
I rooted for Lucy and hoped Coco would accept her new family with open arms. Lucy reminds me a lot of my mom. While a few sensitive topics were discussed, I think it remained pretty lighthearted and made my heart happy. Also, who doesn’t love a HEA?! Thank you, Jen, for writing another warm, cozy hug of a book!
Thank you to Jen Atkinson for gifting me an eARC of Insta Family. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 22, 2023
When you read a Jen Atkinson book you know you'll get a bunch of good things: you'll laugh; you'll cry; you'll melt off you chair with so much swoon; and you'll get good writing. She has the ability to make your emotions go to crazy levels, with all the fun laughter, spilled tears, she will even hurt you and it's all good because you know her characters will grow and it will all end well!
1st kiss: 32% in
Romance: 2/5
Chemistry: 4/5
Spice: 0/5 (it's a clean one y'all)
Humor: 3/5
Cry factor: 3/5
Drama: 3/5
Suspense: 0/5
Angst: 1/5
I love a clean romance that melts me off my chair. The hugs in this story were just the best, I felt the warmth - they were just what I needed.
Jen makes the best close knit family stories, I love how they make me feel warm.
Jude was such an amazing, caring, comforting guy but he kept sacrificing his love because of those around him - especially his amazing and sparkly daughter. Alice was such a sweet girl, literally full of sparkle, you'll fall in love with her, I'm sure.
I loved Coco's character, she is quirky and has no problem telling her animal stories to anyone who will listen. Her courage to meet her biological family only grows with Jude's hugs, I mean help! But the hugs also played an important part! And I loved meeting her brothers!
Overall:
- This is a clean romance, packed with chemistry and emotions.
- A great read for the colder weather - you'll want to snuggle up with a blanket and a good cup of something warm while reading this one.
- It's a sweet and easy read. Deal with adoption and finding a birth mother. No heavy triggers.
1st kiss: 32% in
Romance: 2/5
Chemistry: 4/5
Spice: 0/5 (it's a clean one y'all)
Humor: 3/5
Cry factor: 3/5
Drama: 3/5
Suspense: 0/5
Angst: 1/5
I love a clean romance that melts me off my chair. The hugs in this story were just the best, I felt the warmth - they were just what I needed.
Jen makes the best close knit family stories, I love how they make me feel warm.
Jude was such an amazing, caring, comforting guy but he kept sacrificing his love because of those around him - especially his amazing and sparkly daughter. Alice was such a sweet girl, literally full of sparkle, you'll fall in love with her, I'm sure.
I loved Coco's character, she is quirky and has no problem telling her animal stories to anyone who will listen. Her courage to meet her biological family only grows with Jude's hugs, I mean help! But the hugs also played an important part! And I loved meeting her brothers!
Overall:
- This is a clean romance, packed with chemistry and emotions.
- A great read for the colder weather - you'll want to snuggle up with a blanket and a good cup of something warm while reading this one.
- It's a sweet and easy read. Deal with adoption and finding a birth mother. No heavy triggers.
September 6, 2025
While I started this series back in 2023, this is the first time that I've actually gotten around to finishing these final two books in the series... but I have read Jen's Bailey Brothers series in its entirety, so coming back to this book where we are first introduced to that family? That was definitely really fun for me! I already knew a bit about Jude and Coco from that series, but I loved seeing them fall in love in this one. They had a really beautiful chemistry that I couldn't help but love and root for. That first time meeting in person? It was messy and hilarious... and the smiles most certainly didn't stop there. Let's be honest though, Alice is 100% the star of this story! Like Coco and Jude, I was familiar with Alice from the other series... she even had her own book, all grown up. But her sweet, sassy and smart personality really shined in this one. Honestly, I think it made me appreciate HER book (Alice Taylor is More Than a Princess) all that much more too! This one truly was a beautiful story about family- both those the ones we're born into and the ones we choose and I loved every single minute of it.
Insta Family is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is the fourth book in the Insta Series, and while those who have read the previous books will appreciate catching up with familiar characters, I do think this could be enjoyed just fine as a standalone as well.
**Complimentary copy received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Insta Family is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is the fourth book in the Insta Series, and while those who have read the previous books will appreciate catching up with familiar characters, I do think this could be enjoyed just fine as a standalone as well.
**Complimentary copy received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2023
This was the first book I've read from Jen Atkinson and because of it I now need to read the rest of her books ASAP! Her writing is amazing and I totally finished this book way too fast!
I loved that she wrote about two imperfect people who both had worries and shortcomings, but found strength in each other.
I absolutely adored watching cinnamon roll Jude take care of Coco in her journey to finding her birth family. I loved watching them banter back and forth, the embarrassing moments, and the chemistry between them.
Coco and Jude are about as opposite as you can get in what they love and their personalities. Yet when they are together it is just perfection!
Also his daughter is just a ball of energy and fun! She is so well written that you just want to scoop her up and take her home with you!
Finally Jude's honorary family of brothers and mom are amazing through and through! I am sooo excited that soon each of his "brothers" will be getting their own books. I'm so excited for them and I am already counting day the days!
If you are looking for a book that will make you laugh out loud, cry (totally dropped some tears reading this book!), and swoon give this book a go as soon as it is released! Then report back because I need to talk to more people about this book!
Physical Intimacy Level 2 (It is so well done!)
Zero Swearing
Dual POV
I loved that she wrote about two imperfect people who both had worries and shortcomings, but found strength in each other.
I absolutely adored watching cinnamon roll Jude take care of Coco in her journey to finding her birth family. I loved watching them banter back and forth, the embarrassing moments, and the chemistry between them.
Coco and Jude are about as opposite as you can get in what they love and their personalities. Yet when they are together it is just perfection!
Also his daughter is just a ball of energy and fun! She is so well written that you just want to scoop her up and take her home with you!
Finally Jude's honorary family of brothers and mom are amazing through and through! I am sooo excited that soon each of his "brothers" will be getting their own books. I'm so excited for them and I am already counting day the days!
If you are looking for a book that will make you laugh out loud, cry (totally dropped some tears reading this book!), and swoon give this book a go as soon as it is released! Then report back because I need to talk to more people about this book!
Physical Intimacy Level 2 (It is so well done!)
Zero Swearing
Dual POV
September 17, 2023
The Insta series continues in book 4 with Coco’s story. Coco is a veterinarian who was adopted at birth. She’s sent a message on Instagram from a man named Jude who says her birth mother wants to meet her. After weeks of messages to her and encouragement from her best friends Iris and Ebony, Coco decides to go to Idaho to meet her birth family, her birth mom and four brothers she didn’t know about.
Jude is life long best friends with Coco’s brother Levi and like an adopted son in the Bailey family. He’s a single dad to fun loving and care free six year old Alice and is asked to go get Coco and bring her back. No one mentioned not falling for his best friend’s little sister though.
Another smash from author Jen Atkinson, Jude and Coco gives us all the feels as she gets to know him, Alice and her new family. Jude is an amazing dad to Alice and Alice steals the show of the whole book with her care free, Dr Phil like knowledge and attitude. An old soul in a tiny body. She was definitely my favorite character.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 -
💋 If you think Mountain Dew and Twizzlers are the ultimate cure all
💋if you love all things animals
💋if you love falling for your brother’s best friend
💋if you love closed door sweet romances with stolen kisses
🐶 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟴𝘁𝗵. 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗮𝘇𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. 🐶
Jude is life long best friends with Coco’s brother Levi and like an adopted son in the Bailey family. He’s a single dad to fun loving and care free six year old Alice and is asked to go get Coco and bring her back. No one mentioned not falling for his best friend’s little sister though.
Another smash from author Jen Atkinson, Jude and Coco gives us all the feels as she gets to know him, Alice and her new family. Jude is an amazing dad to Alice and Alice steals the show of the whole book with her care free, Dr Phil like knowledge and attitude. An old soul in a tiny body. She was definitely my favorite character.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 -
💋 If you think Mountain Dew and Twizzlers are the ultimate cure all
💋if you love all things animals
💋if you love falling for your brother’s best friend
💋if you love closed door sweet romances with stolen kisses
🐶 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟴𝘁𝗵. 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗮𝘇𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. 🐶
October 15, 2023
His best friend's mother, Lucy Bailey, has been more of a parent to Jude Taylor than the woman who gave birth to him, so when she asks him for a favor, he immediately says yes. He starts to have second thoughts when that favor turns out to be contacting the daughter Lucy secretly gave up for adoption years ago. Coco Coalfield is focused on becoming a partner in her boss's veterinary practice, not on finding her birth mom, but when Jude messages her one day out of the blue, she can't help but wonder what it would be like to meet her. But work comes first, so she puts off responding to Jude - until the day he shows up in person and she agrees to come for a visit. Jude would never make a move on his best friend's sister, but the instant attraction between him and Coco is increasingly difficult to resist as she spends time in his hometown getting to know the Baileys, his chosen family. His 5-year-old daughter Alice is smitten with her too. But with their lives in two different places, are Jude and Coco destined for heartbreak?
I absolutely adored this funny, sweet, and heartwarming story. Jude and Coco had fantastic chemistry, and the way he helped her through her fear of flying was incredibly sweet. Coco's efforts to build a relationship with her birth mother and brothers were emotional at times, but there was plenty of humor to offset the serious moments. I particularly enjoyed Jude's awkward first meeting with Coco's friend Jet, his favorite professional soccer player, as well as his daughter Alice's hilarious antics.
I highly recommend "Insta Family" for all sweet contemporary romance and romantic comedy fans. I'm excited for what's to come in Atkinson's next series, which will feature Coco's four brothers.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I absolutely adored this funny, sweet, and heartwarming story. Jude and Coco had fantastic chemistry, and the way he helped her through her fear of flying was incredibly sweet. Coco's efforts to build a relationship with her birth mother and brothers were emotional at times, but there was plenty of humor to offset the serious moments. I particularly enjoyed Jude's awkward first meeting with Coco's friend Jet, his favorite professional soccer player, as well as his daughter Alice's hilarious antics.
I highly recommend "Insta Family" for all sweet contemporary romance and romantic comedy fans. I'm excited for what's to come in Atkinson's next series, which will feature Coco's four brothers.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2023
Aw. What a cute, cute story! I fell in love with these characters almost instantly. How is that even possible?!?! Coco, Jude and Alice. But here's where I admit that maybe, just maybe, Alice stole the show. All of her 6 year old adorableness, sparkling up the pages. This author did such a good job of creating a community and family of characters that I related to and connected with. I felt like I knew them all. And more than that, I liked them all.
There were so many memorable moments in this book. So many smiles, so many feel good, fuzzy feelings.
* Jude the pilot (he'll save Coco first)
* first meet poop incident
* sparkle punch
* code names
* Coco's generous heart
* pink dresses
* Coco standing up for herself
* hugs
I loved snuggling in with this book. It was so sweet, so cozy. I can't wait for more of this family of four brothers!! It's going to be such a fun ride! If you haven't read anything by this author and you love sweet romance, go right now and pick one up. She's the real deal.
Content: kissing. Adoption, connecting with biological family.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
There were so many memorable moments in this book. So many smiles, so many feel good, fuzzy feelings.
* Jude the pilot (he'll save Coco first)
* first meet poop incident
* sparkle punch
* code names
* Coco's generous heart
* pink dresses
* Coco standing up for herself
* hugs
I loved snuggling in with this book. It was so sweet, so cozy. I can't wait for more of this family of four brothers!! It's going to be such a fun ride! If you haven't read anything by this author and you love sweet romance, go right now and pick one up. She's the real deal.
Content: kissing. Adoption, connecting with biological family.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 19, 2023
𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗔 𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗬 is book 4 of the 𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗔 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦 and I swear each book just gets better and better.
This story introduces us to new characters along with the amazing ones from the previous 3 books.
This story follows Jude and his daughter Alice as the try and reunite Coco with her birth mother. Jude is a single father of Alice who is a feisty 6 yr old that acts like a 15 yr old. She has got to be the most adorable little girl that has ever been in a book. She made me laugh, (like a lot) get teary-eyed, and kept me turning the pages for more story.
Jude is the hot 🔥🤤single dad that has all the ladies swooning. Yet he is so humble and down to earth that I instantly fell in love with him. 🧡 His world revolves around Alice and will do anything for her. 😍
Coco is a rough and tough country veterinarian with a heart of gold. She knows the true meaning of friendship and will never give up on you.
You know from the start that Jude and Coco are perfect for each other but will they discover it before it’s too late?
Y’all this book made my heart happy! It was everything I didn’t know I needed until the book was finished. If you are a fan of sweet stories, amazing characters and a happy ever after you need to grab this series ASAP!
This story introduces us to new characters along with the amazing ones from the previous 3 books.
This story follows Jude and his daughter Alice as the try and reunite Coco with her birth mother. Jude is a single father of Alice who is a feisty 6 yr old that acts like a 15 yr old. She has got to be the most adorable little girl that has ever been in a book. She made me laugh, (like a lot) get teary-eyed, and kept me turning the pages for more story.
Jude is the hot 🔥🤤single dad that has all the ladies swooning. Yet he is so humble and down to earth that I instantly fell in love with him. 🧡 His world revolves around Alice and will do anything for her. 😍
Coco is a rough and tough country veterinarian with a heart of gold. She knows the true meaning of friendship and will never give up on you.
You know from the start that Jude and Coco are perfect for each other but will they discover it before it’s too late?
Y’all this book made my heart happy! It was everything I didn’t know I needed until the book was finished. If you are a fan of sweet stories, amazing characters and a happy ever after you need to grab this series ASAP!
October 8, 2023
This is the sweetest RomCom! It was hard to put down at night. Jude is an uptight single dad of the most darling girl (seriously…it’s impossible not to love Alice 💜 )! He has been sent by his best friend’s mom, Lucy to convince Coco to fly to Idaho to meet her family. Why? This is her biological mom that she didn’t know existed!! Coco is a bit of a free spirit who enjoys her job as a veterinarian…and loves to tell people the gruesome details that go along with it. You learn just how long a glove needs to be when assessing a cow… 🐄 😂
Once back in Idaho, Coco gets to know and love her mom and brothers. She also gets to know Jude… a little to well 🔥 and not everyone is happy about it.
A few of my favorite moments:
🐶 “Telling her about a cat with a litter of thirteen is unhelpful” …”it was a cow this time” 🤣🤣🤣🤣
🐶 “I stand there watching her giggle without any idea what it is she wants to say to me. Or what I should say in reply to a giggle. What do you say to a giggle” - Jude
🐶 Jet Jacobson’s pants 🤣
🐶 The swarming moms at dance
🐶 The secret code names
🐶 Evan and the cool ranch Doritos
This one is a must read!! Adding Jen to my
Auto buy author list!
Once back in Idaho, Coco gets to know and love her mom and brothers. She also gets to know Jude… a little to well 🔥 and not everyone is happy about it.
A few of my favorite moments:
🐶 “Telling her about a cat with a litter of thirteen is unhelpful” …”it was a cow this time” 🤣🤣🤣🤣
🐶 “I stand there watching her giggle without any idea what it is she wants to say to me. Or what I should say in reply to a giggle. What do you say to a giggle” - Jude
🐶 Jet Jacobson’s pants 🤣
🐶 The swarming moms at dance
🐶 The secret code names
🐶 Evan and the cool ranch Doritos
This one is a must read!! Adding Jen to my
Auto buy author list!
September 28, 2023
Oh. my. heart! This sweet romance gave me all the feels!
Coco has never planned on meeting her birth parents...until a handsome stranger enters her life claiming to know her birth mother and offering to take her to meet her family.
Jude is simply doing a favor for his best friend's mother but before he knows it, he is falling hard and fast for Coco. But as a single dad, he can't just think of himself, and the risk of letting Coco into his life may be too much.
What to expect:
Found Family
Brother's Best Friend
Dual pov
Single dad
The meet-cute
Alice
Code names
Coco on the plane
The swoony flirting!
The Bailey brothers
"I'll save you first."
Coco is such a fun, quirky character and I am so here for all of her vet stories! Little Alice stole the show and watching Jude as a single father was seriously heart melting. He took care of Coco in the same tender, thoughtful way and I loooooved watching them fall for each other.
Pretty sure we are getting a new series featuring the Bailey brothers and I am SO here for it! Can't wait to read all of their stories!
TW: adoption, abandonment by parents
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Coco has never planned on meeting her birth parents...until a handsome stranger enters her life claiming to know her birth mother and offering to take her to meet her family.
Jude is simply doing a favor for his best friend's mother but before he knows it, he is falling hard and fast for Coco. But as a single dad, he can't just think of himself, and the risk of letting Coco into his life may be too much.
What to expect:
Found Family
Brother's Best Friend
Dual pov
Single dad
The meet-cute
Alice
Code names
Coco on the plane
The swoony flirting!
The Bailey brothers
"I'll save you first."
Coco is such a fun, quirky character and I am so here for all of her vet stories! Little Alice stole the show and watching Jude as a single father was seriously heart melting. He took care of Coco in the same tender, thoughtful way and I loooooved watching them fall for each other.
Pretty sure we are getting a new series featuring the Bailey brothers and I am SO here for it! Can't wait to read all of their stories!
TW: adoption, abandonment by parents
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
October 11, 2023
This is so much more than a love story! This is about the love of a family.
Coco is a veterinarian in Denver. She has worked hard to get to where she is in her career and she loves everything about her job. She is also adopted and while she has been curious - as is natural - she has had no desire to search for her birth family.
Jude is a close family friend of the Bailey brothers and thinks of Lucy as a second mom. Lucy, who gave her daughter up for adoption at a young age, asks Jude’s help in convincing her biological daughter to meet her.
This story follows the perspectives of Coco and Jude as they learn more about themselves and their family.
While all the characters are an integral part of this story, the star of the show is Jude’s six year old daughter. This girl imparts so much wisdom as Coco explores the idea of meeting her biological family and as Jude learns how to believe in himself while still protecting his family.
There are so many adorable, laugh out loud moments in this book. You will honestly feel like you are a part of this incredible family.
Coco is a veterinarian in Denver. She has worked hard to get to where she is in her career and she loves everything about her job. She is also adopted and while she has been curious - as is natural - she has had no desire to search for her birth family.
Jude is a close family friend of the Bailey brothers and thinks of Lucy as a second mom. Lucy, who gave her daughter up for adoption at a young age, asks Jude’s help in convincing her biological daughter to meet her.
This story follows the perspectives of Coco and Jude as they learn more about themselves and their family.
While all the characters are an integral part of this story, the star of the show is Jude’s six year old daughter. This girl imparts so much wisdom as Coco explores the idea of meeting her biological family and as Jude learns how to believe in himself while still protecting his family.
There are so many adorable, laugh out loud moments in this book. You will honestly feel like you are a part of this incredible family.
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