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The Solace Sisters #2
Enemy Ex's Secret Baby
I gave him my heart once.
In return, I was left to raise his secret child…
Axel Hitchins is my best friend’s brother,
the summer fling I never got over,
and, despite what I’ve let people think…my daughter’s real father.
Now, he’s also the man standing between me and the last park standing in a 10-mile radius.
And I’m not going to let him win.
He is as arrogant and money-oriented as he ever was,
and letting him get his way is not very high on my priority list.
Having hate sex with him, though?
That’s unexpectedly high…
I might not like him anymore, but I can’t deny that the spark is still there.
When my daughter’s paternity is suddenly in danger of being revealed,
I can’t help wondering…
Is it time to tell him the truth, or will I only be left to nurse new wounds?
In return, I was left to raise his secret child…
Axel Hitchins is my best friend’s brother,
the summer fling I never got over,
and, despite what I’ve let people think…my daughter’s real father.
Now, he’s also the man standing between me and the last park standing in a 10-mile radius.
And I’m not going to let him win.
He is as arrogant and money-oriented as he ever was,
and letting him get his way is not very high on my priority list.
Having hate sex with him, though?
That’s unexpectedly high…
I might not like him anymore, but I can’t deny that the spark is still there.
When my daughter’s paternity is suddenly in danger of being revealed,
I can’t help wondering…
Is it time to tell him the truth, or will I only be left to nurse new wounds?
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2023
430 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 4, 2023
Second in the series of the solace sisters, we get to see Gillis and Axel story.
Gillian we saw a lot of in book 1 as the single mum to adorable Stella.
And Axel is Lola’s brother, Gillian and Axel are at each others throats and we get to find out why.
This a great read as always Callie has written great characters and a lovely story.
4⭐️
Gillian we saw a lot of in book 1 as the single mum to adorable Stella.
And Axel is Lola’s brother, Gillian and Axel are at each others throats and we get to find out why.
This a great read as always Callie has written great characters and a lovely story.
4⭐️
August 20, 2023
“heroine” sucks
Story was ok. But I hate a secret baby story where the mother makes no attempt to tell the father she has a child for no good reason (violent criminals dads being the best exception).
Story was ok. But I hate a secret baby story where the mother makes no attempt to tell the father she has a child for no good reason (violent criminals dads being the best exception).
August 13, 2023
Ex's Secret Baby is book two in The Solace Sisters series. A full-length standalone novel with no cheating or cliffhanger and complete with a happily-ever-after. The story was beautifully written story with world building characters and twisty storyline that captures your attention from beginning and keeps you hooked and turning the pages until the end. A best friend brother romance, hate-to-love vibes story, enemies-to-lovers romance, billionaire romance, second chance romance, secret baby, forbidden relationship, filled with secrets, deception, lies, drama, revelations, betrayal, friendship, forgiveness, tension, emotions, hatred, anger, resentment, angst, pain, passion, lust, humor, banter, surprises, mystery, misunderstandings, heartache, spice, and love. This is Axel and Gillian story.
Gillian and Lola had been best friends and next door neighbor since childhood. They're now business owners of bakery. Gillian and Axel had always had a thing for each and seven years ago they succumb to their attraction and had a summer fling, which resulted in the conception their six year old daughter Stella. He broke her heart and she hated him. Gillian decided that she wasn't going to tell Axel about their daughter. She also didn't want to hurt her best friend and that was another reason why she kept the secret of the paternity of daughter.
Axel dad's has a strong hole on his life, and is pressuring him to close the deal by Stella school to build condominiums unless he won't give him the company. Gillian believes that school and children can benefit from the lot if they build a park where children can go outside and play. Axel is standing in her way of the park and she reuses to let him win. So she organized a protest to block Axel company from obtaining the lot. Gillian protest has thrust her in the spotlight and there's a chance that Axel may find out about Stella paternity. And when she walks in the bakery one day and saw Stella and Axel talking and getting along her fear skyrocketed, and she over react against Axel believing that her secret is coming out.
Gillian still lives Axel and doesn't want anything to do with him, but she's not oppose to having hate sex with him. Their chemistry is hot and sizzling and when they get together it's erotic and tantalizing. Will Gillian tell Axel that he's Stella father? How will Axel react to news of having a daughter? Will he forgive Gillian from keeping such a life changing secret from him? How will Stella paternity affect her and Lola's friendship when the truth comes out? And will they get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gillian and Lola had been best friends and next door neighbor since childhood. They're now business owners of bakery. Gillian and Axel had always had a thing for each and seven years ago they succumb to their attraction and had a summer fling, which resulted in the conception their six year old daughter Stella. He broke her heart and she hated him. Gillian decided that she wasn't going to tell Axel about their daughter. She also didn't want to hurt her best friend and that was another reason why she kept the secret of the paternity of daughter.
Axel dad's has a strong hole on his life, and is pressuring him to close the deal by Stella school to build condominiums unless he won't give him the company. Gillian believes that school and children can benefit from the lot if they build a park where children can go outside and play. Axel is standing in her way of the park and she reuses to let him win. So she organized a protest to block Axel company from obtaining the lot. Gillian protest has thrust her in the spotlight and there's a chance that Axel may find out about Stella paternity. And when she walks in the bakery one day and saw Stella and Axel talking and getting along her fear skyrocketed, and she over react against Axel believing that her secret is coming out.
Gillian still lives Axel and doesn't want anything to do with him, but she's not oppose to having hate sex with him. Their chemistry is hot and sizzling and when they get together it's erotic and tantalizing. Will Gillian tell Axel that he's Stella father? How will Axel react to news of having a daughter? Will he forgive Gillian from keeping such a life changing secret from him? How will Stella paternity affect her and Lola's friendship when the truth comes out? And will they get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
Looking with the Eyes of Love
The Solace Sisters—Gillian, Dana, Kira, Amy and Harley—of Silver Lake, a small division of LA, had not known the doting love of their mother. Or, at least they had little memory of mom’s love since she walked out when her daughters where young, leaving her husband, Grant, to carry on a best he could. And he had done well. He has loved and guided to adulthood 5 beautiful, loving, thoughtful daughters who are supportive of him and of each other.
Now, the sisters and dad await the birth of sister Harley’s first child with her fiancé, dad’s best friend Kent. But Harley’s little one is not the first grandchild that Grant has welcomed. Seven years earlier Gillian, at 23, one of the beautiful Solace sisters with blonde hair and their dad’s brown eyes, had given birth to the first grandchild—Stella, a sweet child with her mom’s blonde hair and emerald green eyes. And now, the bright kindergartener, Stella, was thrilled to have a young cousin join the family.
To support her daughter and herself, Gillian and her next-door neighbor and best friend since childhood, Lola, had opened a very successful and popular community bakery. So, as a single mom, Gillian couldn’t ask for more than the love and support of her sisters, her dad and her best friend Lola. But, life is not without challenges. As a kindergartener, sweet Stella had recently become aware that she was different from her friends. Her friends all had dads—even if their dad didn’t reside with the friends—they all had a dad. And now, with the birth of Stella’s new baby cousin to her aunt Harley and Harley’s fiancé, Grant Neville, even baby Tana had a daddy.
So, whether she is ready or not to address the identity of her sweet daughter’s father, Gilly must face her hidden fears and dark secrets. And while Gillian had told her bff Lola that the father was an old boyfriend, all that Gilly’s family and friends really needed to do was to look at her daughter’s green eyes to guess the dad’s identity. While Stella shared her mom’s blonde hair, her eyes were not her mom’s brown, but rather a beautiful green. In fact, best friend Lola and her brothers, Jeremiah and Axel Hitchens shared just such a shade of green.
Author Callie Stevens sets up the perfect secret lover tale filled with magic and energy. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, but also purchased a copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Solace Sisters—Gillian, Dana, Kira, Amy and Harley—of Silver Lake, a small division of LA, had not known the doting love of their mother. Or, at least they had little memory of mom’s love since she walked out when her daughters where young, leaving her husband, Grant, to carry on a best he could. And he had done well. He has loved and guided to adulthood 5 beautiful, loving, thoughtful daughters who are supportive of him and of each other.
Now, the sisters and dad await the birth of sister Harley’s first child with her fiancé, dad’s best friend Kent. But Harley’s little one is not the first grandchild that Grant has welcomed. Seven years earlier Gillian, at 23, one of the beautiful Solace sisters with blonde hair and their dad’s brown eyes, had given birth to the first grandchild—Stella, a sweet child with her mom’s blonde hair and emerald green eyes. And now, the bright kindergartener, Stella, was thrilled to have a young cousin join the family.
To support her daughter and herself, Gillian and her next-door neighbor and best friend since childhood, Lola, had opened a very successful and popular community bakery. So, as a single mom, Gillian couldn’t ask for more than the love and support of her sisters, her dad and her best friend Lola. But, life is not without challenges. As a kindergartener, sweet Stella had recently become aware that she was different from her friends. Her friends all had dads—even if their dad didn’t reside with the friends—they all had a dad. And now, with the birth of Stella’s new baby cousin to her aunt Harley and Harley’s fiancé, Grant Neville, even baby Tana had a daddy.
So, whether she is ready or not to address the identity of her sweet daughter’s father, Gilly must face her hidden fears and dark secrets. And while Gillian had told her bff Lola that the father was an old boyfriend, all that Gilly’s family and friends really needed to do was to look at her daughter’s green eyes to guess the dad’s identity. While Stella shared her mom’s blonde hair, her eyes were not her mom’s brown, but rather a beautiful green. In fact, best friend Lola and her brothers, Jeremiah and Axel Hitchens shared just such a shade of green.
Author Callie Stevens sets up the perfect secret lover tale filled with magic and energy. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, but also purchased a copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2023
Enemy Ex's Secret Baby is the second book in CalIie Stevens The Solace Sisters Series. While I really loved Grant and Harley's story in Silver Fox's Secret Baby I was shocked when I found myself loving Axel and Gillian's story more. There is a chemistry between these two that is so strong it is a wonder they could fight their feelings for one another as long as they did. It was impossible not to love Axel and Gillian they are wonderful characters and absolutely perfect together.
I get excited when books are interconnected and all of the characters in a series are part of each others stories it really makes my overall reading experience more enjoyable. I am excited to read the next Solace sisters story and get updates on the rest of the crew.
Axel and Gillian are fighting over the development of condos on a plot of land that sits across the street from her daughters school. It has a history of being part of the community where the children can play and families come together for picnics and to socialize. The land is owned by the Hitchins family and the plan for building condo's is a business move. Gillian is business partners with her best friend Lola who happens to also be Axel's sister. This puts her smack dab in the middle of the situation and it is beginning to put a strain on her. Lola also established a rule when they were younger that Axel and Gillian could not date one another. So, the rule was broken and their daughter Stella is a result of that. The problem is that Stella, Lola and Axel have no idea because Gillian has hidden this fact from them, well, from everyone. Lola also has no idea that her brother and best friend have been hooking up once again. What will happen when Lola discovers their betrayal? Can Axel forgive her once he finds out he missed out on all these years with his daughter? The biggest question of all is can they work everything out and find a happily ever after as a family?
I receive a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I get excited when books are interconnected and all of the characters in a series are part of each others stories it really makes my overall reading experience more enjoyable. I am excited to read the next Solace sisters story and get updates on the rest of the crew.
Axel and Gillian are fighting over the development of condos on a plot of land that sits across the street from her daughters school. It has a history of being part of the community where the children can play and families come together for picnics and to socialize. The land is owned by the Hitchins family and the plan for building condo's is a business move. Gillian is business partners with her best friend Lola who happens to also be Axel's sister. This puts her smack dab in the middle of the situation and it is beginning to put a strain on her. Lola also established a rule when they were younger that Axel and Gillian could not date one another. So, the rule was broken and their daughter Stella is a result of that. The problem is that Stella, Lola and Axel have no idea because Gillian has hidden this fact from them, well, from everyone. Lola also has no idea that her brother and best friend have been hooking up once again. What will happen when Lola discovers their betrayal? Can Axel forgive her once he finds out he missed out on all these years with his daughter? The biggest question of all is can they work everything out and find a happily ever after as a family?
I receive a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2023
Love and Forgiveness . . .
Gillian Solace runs a bakery with her bestie, Lola, whom the entire family considers the “sixth sister” because they have been neighbors and friends forever. Gillian is a single mom to Stella who attends kindergarten. Now the Solace family is currently gathered in the hospital waiting room while Harley gives birth to her first baby… so it’s going to take a long time. Lola draws Gillian’s attention to the news story on the TV in the waiting room. It shows Gillian leading a protest in the empty lot next to Stella’s school. Lola’s brother Axel wants to build condos there but the community wants a playground for the kids. This battle is a bit personal since Gillian and Axel had a secret relationship at once time, resulting in Stella, whom Axel does not know about. He had dumped Gillian, broke her heart, and she hated him for it. Axel, in the meantime is being pressured by his father to get the condo contract or he will not get the family business he has worked so hard for.
Returning to the bakery one day, Gillian sees Axel there at a table with Stella and the two of them are laughing like old friends! She over-reacts. Will her secret come out in an awkward way revealing her lies to everyone about Stella’s father? Or will she tell the truth to Axel and to her best friend? It’s a long time overdue. But is she strong enough to face them all and straighten out the lies? Is it too late to become the family they should have been all along?
There is so much more in this story, but I wanted to mention all the interactions and conflicts that will need to be dealt with. It will all come down to love and forgiveness. And each of them has a great deal to think about going forward. Where is the future going to take them?
Gillian Solace runs a bakery with her bestie, Lola, whom the entire family considers the “sixth sister” because they have been neighbors and friends forever. Gillian is a single mom to Stella who attends kindergarten. Now the Solace family is currently gathered in the hospital waiting room while Harley gives birth to her first baby… so it’s going to take a long time. Lola draws Gillian’s attention to the news story on the TV in the waiting room. It shows Gillian leading a protest in the empty lot next to Stella’s school. Lola’s brother Axel wants to build condos there but the community wants a playground for the kids. This battle is a bit personal since Gillian and Axel had a secret relationship at once time, resulting in Stella, whom Axel does not know about. He had dumped Gillian, broke her heart, and she hated him for it. Axel, in the meantime is being pressured by his father to get the condo contract or he will not get the family business he has worked so hard for.
Returning to the bakery one day, Gillian sees Axel there at a table with Stella and the two of them are laughing like old friends! She over-reacts. Will her secret come out in an awkward way revealing her lies to everyone about Stella’s father? Or will she tell the truth to Axel and to her best friend? It’s a long time overdue. But is she strong enough to face them all and straighten out the lies? Is it too late to become the family they should have been all along?
There is so much more in this story, but I wanted to mention all the interactions and conflicts that will need to be dealt with. It will all come down to love and forgiveness. And each of them has a great deal to think about going forward. Where is the future going to take them?
August 7, 2023
Come on folks. Step right up, this is your next story in the lives of the Solace sisters. We are met with Gillian and Axel. They have quite the sordid history.
Gillian has been best friends with Axel's younger sister, Lola, since they started school. They have been neighbours almost their whole lives. They have a very big love hate relationship. The best part of this book in the intense up/down and sideways barbs and arguments they throw at each other.
Axel has his own stone to bear trying to grow the family business under his Dad's strict rule, and gets nothing but blowback from Gillian as she tries to save a small park next to a school that Axel's family wants to develop. It causes more than one argument, but i don't think they know any other way.
Eventually it leads to some ear popping steamy times that neither of them can deny. Gillian knows her entire world as at risk as she cares for her 6 year old daughter, Stella, who has never met her Daddy, and no one else as far as she knows that secret.
Life gets in the way just as they come together to blow her secret to the moon, and face the consequences. Its dramatic for sure, but soooooo good to read. These two have loved each other since they understood what it meant, but too scared to admit the truth that's been with them for 7 years.
If you want a book you can lose yourself in, forget your troubles and take up Axel and Gillian's troubles, you are in for a great read!!
Gillian has been best friends with Axel's younger sister, Lola, since they started school. They have been neighbours almost their whole lives. They have a very big love hate relationship. The best part of this book in the intense up/down and sideways barbs and arguments they throw at each other.
Axel has his own stone to bear trying to grow the family business under his Dad's strict rule, and gets nothing but blowback from Gillian as she tries to save a small park next to a school that Axel's family wants to develop. It causes more than one argument, but i don't think they know any other way.
Eventually it leads to some ear popping steamy times that neither of them can deny. Gillian knows her entire world as at risk as she cares for her 6 year old daughter, Stella, who has never met her Daddy, and no one else as far as she knows that secret.
Life gets in the way just as they come together to blow her secret to the moon, and face the consequences. Its dramatic for sure, but soooooo good to read. These two have loved each other since they understood what it meant, but too scared to admit the truth that's been with them for 7 years.
If you want a book you can lose yourself in, forget your troubles and take up Axel and Gillian's troubles, you are in for a great read!!
August 14, 2023
This is book 2 of the Solace Sisters, its Gillian's story. So Gillian is in a battle to keep the lot next to her daughter's school from being turned into high-end condos with Axel Hitchins. Axel is Gillian's best friend/Business partner's brother and works for Hitchins Property Developers and they have a history together. Seven years ago, they had a fling, which ended badly but resulted in Gillian getting pregnant with Stella. Gillian never told anyone who Stella's father was.
Stella invites Axel to join them at her school's carnival and he agrees to come. He then finds out what's so special about the property next to the school and he decides not to go with his original plan but to turn it into a park. That doesn't work so well for Axel's father who disagrees with the whole thing, but Axel gets the support needed from the shareholders of the company. Meanwhile, he and Gillian form a relationship and he finds out on "accident" that he's Stella's father. He was mad at first, because it took her 6 years to tell him, but she explains why she did not tell him in the first place, but he gets past it. In the end they tell Stella that Axel is her father, and he proposes to Gillian.
I really love this series. I can't wait to read who's next! And I am pretty sure that the dad is going to get with Victoria! Hopefully its Amy and Hunter!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Stella invites Axel to join them at her school's carnival and he agrees to come. He then finds out what's so special about the property next to the school and he decides not to go with his original plan but to turn it into a park. That doesn't work so well for Axel's father who disagrees with the whole thing, but Axel gets the support needed from the shareholders of the company. Meanwhile, he and Gillian form a relationship and he finds out on "accident" that he's Stella's father. He was mad at first, because it took her 6 years to tell him, but she explains why she did not tell him in the first place, but he gets past it. In the end they tell Stella that Axel is her father, and he proposes to Gillian.
I really love this series. I can't wait to read who's next! And I am pretty sure that the dad is going to get with Victoria! Hopefully its Amy and Hunter!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2023
Axel and Gillian’s passionate story is a Must read 5/5
This amazing secret baby romance is 5/5 🌶️⭐️for me and a great read. Axel and Gillian’s connection is off the charts and aligned with the stars. Definitely recommend this book if you like the following:
#secondchanceromance
#EnemiesToLovers
#secretbaby
#sistersbestfriend
#bigmisunderstanding
#angst
Gillian and Axel are amazing in this sweet spicy secret baby romance. Growing up Gillian was always Axels little sisters best friend and his neighbor. His sister Lola made Gillian promise not to hook up with her brother but that didn’t stop them. When they find themselves alone with all sisters and family away the chemistry 🧪 stirs into a passionate affair.
When reality hits and family returns Axel decides it’s best to try forget their little affair by ignoring Gillian. He’s bent burned before by love and ignores the underlying feeling for Gillian by ignoring her. Little does he know that he leaves her with more than a broken heart.
7 years has passed since Gillian’s passionate moment with Axel and she is focused on what he left behind, Stella. Gillian is a hardworking single mom who main priority is her daughter and running her bakery with her best friend Lola. When family and business force these two back into the same orbit the stars align and we get a happy ending.
This amazing secret baby romance is 5/5 🌶️⭐️for me and a great read. Axel and Gillian’s connection is off the charts and aligned with the stars. Definitely recommend this book if you like the following:
#secondchanceromance
#EnemiesToLovers
#secretbaby
#sistersbestfriend
#bigmisunderstanding
#angst
Gillian and Axel are amazing in this sweet spicy secret baby romance. Growing up Gillian was always Axels little sisters best friend and his neighbor. His sister Lola made Gillian promise not to hook up with her brother but that didn’t stop them. When they find themselves alone with all sisters and family away the chemistry 🧪 stirs into a passionate affair.
When reality hits and family returns Axel decides it’s best to try forget their little affair by ignoring Gillian. He’s bent burned before by love and ignores the underlying feeling for Gillian by ignoring her. Little does he know that he leaves her with more than a broken heart.
7 years has passed since Gillian’s passionate moment with Axel and she is focused on what he left behind, Stella. Gillian is a hardworking single mom who main priority is her daughter and running her bakery with her best friend Lola. When family and business force these two back into the same orbit the stars align and we get a happy ending.
August 12, 2023
This is the 2nd story in the Solace Sisters Series where we get to take Gillian’s journey to find happiness and love. Gillian is a single mom to a precious litter girl, Stella and runs a bakery with her best friend Lola. Ever since they were kids Lola and Gillian have been neighbors and best friends. Gillian has is out for her brother, Axel as his family business is set to destroy the playground next to their elementary school. Unknown to everyone Gillian and Axel had a secret relationship that Axel threw away destroying Gillian’s heart. Gillian has harbored hatred for Axel ever since and makes it her mission to protect the land from development. Axel is under extreme pressure from his father to seal this deal or he won’t get the company he’s worked tirelessly at. It’s wonderful to see how they give up on their stubbornness finding common ground and Axel loves spending time with Stella. Their secrets and lies stay hidden for several years and will be revealed at the most uncontrollable way leaving Stella heartbroken. Axel and Gillian need to figure out what important to them in order to move forward. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2023
Lola and Gillian have been best friends forever and are now own a bakery together. Lola has made Gillian promise to never date her brother. Well, when Gillian was in high school that promise might have not been kept and when they are almost found out, Axel leaves and breaks Gillian's heart and leaves her with another unexpected surprise.
This story takes place years later when Gillian is fighting to keep the neighbourhood play area next to her child's school open and Axel is trying to turn it into condos. His dad is pressuring him and dangling the carrot of running the company in front of his eyes. The father has already run off one brother who didn't like the dirtiness of the business. So, Gillian and Axel are forced together again and the chemistry is still off the charts. She is trying to stay away from him because she doesn't want him to learn that her child is his not her ex boyfriends like everyone assumes.
We get all the craziness you would expect and all the heat that comes with an Callie Steven's book. I really enjoyed this one. Callie definitely likes her secret baby stories and I have liked most of them. This one is a good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story takes place years later when Gillian is fighting to keep the neighbourhood play area next to her child's school open and Axel is trying to turn it into condos. His dad is pressuring him and dangling the carrot of running the company in front of his eyes. The father has already run off one brother who didn't like the dirtiness of the business. So, Gillian and Axel are forced together again and the chemistry is still off the charts. She is trying to stay away from him because she doesn't want him to learn that her child is his not her ex boyfriends like everyone assumes.
We get all the craziness you would expect and all the heat that comes with an Callie Steven's book. I really enjoyed this one. Callie definitely likes her secret baby stories and I have liked most of them. This one is a good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2023
Enemy Ex's Secret Baby is a super-steamy, enemies-to-lovers, second-chance, secret baby, girl ends up with her best friend's brother romance. It is the second book in the Solace Sisters series. It is the story of Gillian and Axel. Gillian is a baker and the passionate single mother of Stella. Axel is a grumpy, hunky businessman and older brother of Gillian's best friend, Lola. Axel and Gillian had a summer fling seven years ago when Lola was out of town. She ends up pregnant but never reveals the father as she and Axel had a falling out, and she had promised Lola she'd never date her brother. But both have always loved each other but were too stubborn to admit. They are currently battling over a community space that Axel's company wants to develope and Gillian is fighting to keep the open space for the community. Finally, they start to work through all their issues, and we get a great HEA. The chemistry was hot, and I was just pulling for this couple to make it. Also, Stella is the most amazing little girl. I absolutely loved it and can't wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2023
Sweet romance. This is a best friend's brother and enemies to lovers book. The leading lady has grown up next door to the leading lad. She is best friends with his sister. She is a woman of many passions and one happens to be saving the lot next door to her daughter's elementary school. He is a man that lives for the family business. Striving to become like his workaholic father. However, the family business is in housing development that just so happens to want to build condos on that very lot she's trying to save. Who will get their way? Will their turmoil affect her friendship with her best friend (his sister). What happens when their past catches up to them? Read the book to find out!
This is a well written book with a few twists that I didn't see coming! While this is a stand alone book, I think you would get more context and depth by reading the series in order. I look forward to reading the rest of the series when they are avaliable!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
This is a well written book with a few twists that I didn't see coming! While this is a stand alone book, I think you would get more context and depth by reading the series in order. I look forward to reading the rest of the series when they are avaliable!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
August 8, 2023
Book 2 in the Solace Sisters series and what a beautiful, emotional story it is.
Gillian single mother to 6 year old Stella runs a Bakery with her long time best friend and neighbour Lola, she is also in a battle with Lola’s brother Axel over his company plans to build apartments on a plot of land next to Stella’s school that the school community use for lots of activities. The biggest secret though is that Gillian and Axel had a summer fling going back 7 years.
Gillian still has feelings for Axel but has never forgiven him for what he did 7 years ago and she has another big secret that she hasn’t told anyone, let alone Axel.
I really enjoyed reading this book it is filled with wonderfully written characters, witty conversations, drama, sexual tension, love and a most beautiful happy ever after.
I received an advanced reader’s copy via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
Gillian single mother to 6 year old Stella runs a Bakery with her long time best friend and neighbour Lola, she is also in a battle with Lola’s brother Axel over his company plans to build apartments on a plot of land next to Stella’s school that the school community use for lots of activities. The biggest secret though is that Gillian and Axel had a summer fling going back 7 years.
Gillian still has feelings for Axel but has never forgiven him for what he did 7 years ago and she has another big secret that she hasn’t told anyone, let alone Axel.
I really enjoyed reading this book it is filled with wonderfully written characters, witty conversations, drama, sexual tension, love and a most beautiful happy ever after.
I received an advanced reader’s copy via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
August 12, 2023
This is Gillian and Axel's story and is part of the Solace Sister Series, but can be read as a standalone. She is the only Mom of the five Solace sisters, until her sister Harley has a baby girl. Axel was her best-friend's Lola's older brother, and they had a brief summer fling. They ended as enemies and a pregnancy, which she kept secret. When Stella was born, she kept her father's identity secret from everyone, even the father. Gillian and Axel had a love-hate forbidden relationship. But their attraction is strong and keeps resurfacing. What happens when he finds out he is the father of Stella? What about her ex-boyfriend? What about the playground lot? Plenty of drama and a little angst in this well written, fun story. The characters are well-developed and likable. An HEA and a sweet ending that you will love. I read a free arc via Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 5, 2023
Enemy Ex's Secret Baby is the 2nd book in The Solace Sisters series. This story focuses on Gillian, a single mother of 6 year old Stella, and her best friend Lola's brother Axel. Gillian and Axel have been enemies for almost the 7 years and it just escalates when they go head to head over a lot of land by Stella's school that the community uses for gatherings and Axel's company wants to build condo's on it. When someone from Gillian's past appears secrets come to light and we discover the truth about what happened all those years ago between Gillian and Axel as well as who Stella's father is. Will they be able to overcome the past and move forward? Can't wait to see what comes next for the Solace Sisters!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2023
This book was absolutely fantastic and will definitely have you enthralled from the beginning until the end. This is the second book in this series of the Solace sisters and we get Gillian Story and oh what a story that have you falling in love with Stella Gillian's daughter, but the shocking part is who her father is and will it destroy friendships and hurt more people. Alex is working hard for his father's company and waiting to take it over but when a business deal gets put on hold due to a picketing Gillian can they find away to be in same room and not argue? Will secrets love and feelings come crashing back only to crash and burn after her big secret is revealed? This book is filled pain and heartbreak and chemistry and romance and smoking hot sex scenes. Absolutely loved this book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2023
- Second chance
- Enemies to lovers
- Secret baby
- Best friend's brother
Secrets and longing... Seven years ago, Axel and Gillian had a summer romance, which they kept secret to avoid upsetting Lola, Axel's sister and Gillian's best friend. Their relationship didn't end well, so Gillian decides not to tell Axel he's the father of her baby.
Since then, Lola and Gillian have opened a successful bakery together and Stella, Gillian's daughter, spends a lot of time there. Axel and Gillian, however, are at odds with each other over plans for an empty lot near Stella's school. Gillian thinks it should be kept an area for the community, but Axel's father wants to build condos on the lot.
Now if only they would stop being so drawn to each other. Oh, and the small secret.....
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- Enemies to lovers
- Secret baby
- Best friend's brother
Secrets and longing... Seven years ago, Axel and Gillian had a summer romance, which they kept secret to avoid upsetting Lola, Axel's sister and Gillian's best friend. Their relationship didn't end well, so Gillian decides not to tell Axel he's the father of her baby.
Since then, Lola and Gillian have opened a successful bakery together and Stella, Gillian's daughter, spends a lot of time there. Axel and Gillian, however, are at odds with each other over plans for an empty lot near Stella's school. Gillian thinks it should be kept an area for the community, but Axel's father wants to build condos on the lot.
Now if only they would stop being so drawn to each other. Oh, and the small secret.....
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 29, 2023
Gillian has lived with the guilt of keeping the secret that Stella is Axel's daughter for six years. Circumstances and his behaviour made it impossible to tell him at the time. The feud between the two has spilled over to the demolition of the local park for a high rise development by his family company.
A tipping point occurred and it was beautiful, heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time to read about their new direction.
Gillian is a strong, confident individual and a fantastic mother. Whilst Axel is an equally strong but driven individual. Both have only ever loved once but felt mistakes made meant that there was no going back.
Callie, as always, does not disappoint. A wonderful warm, spicy romance following the trials and tribulations of a fascinating group of families.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A tipping point occurred and it was beautiful, heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time to read about their new direction.
Gillian is a strong, confident individual and a fantastic mother. Whilst Axel is an equally strong but driven individual. Both have only ever loved once but felt mistakes made meant that there was no going back.
Callie, as always, does not disappoint. A wonderful warm, spicy romance following the trials and tribulations of a fascinating group of families.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2023
Man, this book is a heart thrilling page turning book that I couldn't put down until the very end. Gillian has been raising her daughter Stella alone for the past 6 years because she can't bring herself to tell the man she loves Axel he is a dad. Several years ago, things happened between Gillian and Axel that they butt heads, but things change, and they start to develop the same feelings they had for each other several years ago. I had tears of happiness in my eyes at times, and thought the ending was so perfect that it brought more tears to my eyes. Callie can sure write one heck of a romance book that you won't want to stop reading once you start.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2023
Sometimes, in a highly emotional situation, you just grab onto an excuse, a lie, to try to protect yourself. Unfortunately, once the lie is out there, it makes it difficult to get back to the truth. Both Gillian and Axel needed to mature. Gillian’s behavior was understandable, but her secret wasn’t as well hidden as she thought. Axel really had the farthest to go, the most growing up to do. He had to learn to stand up to his father and to fight for himself, to act how HE thought best and not let his father coerce him into actions that were underhanded at best and illegal at worst just to make more money. Lots of feels, lots of angst. Good book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2023
I absolutely adored this book! I read it in half a day 😂 I have loved all of Callies books and will always be left wanting more! And it is no different with this book too. I wish they went on forever, I am really enjoying the Solace sisters series so far. Axel and Gillians relationship is rocky at first and it's true when they say that there is a fine line between love and hate. Their pride and ego has gotten in the way of them being together for years and only starts getting better due to the sassy little girl Stella bringing them together. Secrets, guilt and betrayal threaten to tear them apart, but love will always win in the end. Truly heartwarming story and I can't wait to see what happens with the couple in the future! ❤️🫶😍 another brilliant read 😊 xx
August 25, 2023
This is the second book in the Solace sisters series, so some familiar characters with some old grudges. Several years ago Gillian and Axel had a fling and that resulted in their daughter, Stella. He broke her heart and she decided she wasn't going to tell him about the baby. No one but Gillian knows the true paternity of her daughter.
Time has passed and Axel is now a billionaire but still under his father's thumb. His father wants him to acquire some property to build condominiums, but Gillian thinks that the property would make a great park since it right by the school. She is determined to not let him win. Of course, there is still chemistry between the two and things definitely explode. But when there are secrets and lies and they all come out, what will be the outcome?
Time has passed and Axel is now a billionaire but still under his father's thumb. His father wants him to acquire some property to build condominiums, but Gillian thinks that the property would make a great park since it right by the school. She is determined to not let him win. Of course, there is still chemistry between the two and things definitely explode. But when there are secrets and lies and they all come out, what will be the outcome?
September 9, 2023
This is the second book in this series, and this is Axel and Gillian’s story. Axel is Gilly’s best friends’ brother, and when they have a summer fling, there are consequences. Gilly is a single mom to Stella, and owns a community bakery with her best friend, Lola. Axel does not know that Stella is his, but with her paternity in danger of being revealed, secrets will be revealed.
This is a well written story which is an easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with undeniable chemistry, family, friendships, secrets, truths, humor, witty banter, challenges, romance, second chances, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a well written story which is an easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with undeniable chemistry, family, friendships, secrets, truths, humor, witty banter, challenges, romance, second chances, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2023
I’m becoming increasingly obsessed with all things Callie Stevens. Especially this series. I glanced at the upcoming books and I am not sure I have the patience to wait.
Axel is not your everyday fictional bad boy a lot of us are used to reading. In fact, Stevens goes as far to say he is pale, somewhat gangly and even acted as coward at times. But we get to see him grow into the man he is meant to be right before our eyes. And I was here for it. Absolutely loved his character.
Loved seeing all the sisters throughout the story. Especially Harley with her new baby, and of course Grant. Swoon! But I loved seeing new future book’s evolving within this one. They are going to drive me mad until I get my hands on them.
Couldn’t have asked for a better story for Gillian. Stevens did her justice giving her a perfectly written romance. One she has craved for years. I look forward to seeing more of her, Axel and Stella as a family as the series continues. 5 Stars!
Axel is not your everyday fictional bad boy a lot of us are used to reading. In fact, Stevens goes as far to say he is pale, somewhat gangly and even acted as coward at times. But we get to see him grow into the man he is meant to be right before our eyes. And I was here for it. Absolutely loved his character.
Loved seeing all the sisters throughout the story. Especially Harley with her new baby, and of course Grant. Swoon! But I loved seeing new future book’s evolving within this one. They are going to drive me mad until I get my hands on them.
Couldn’t have asked for a better story for Gillian. Stevens did her justice giving her a perfectly written romance. One she has craved for years. I look forward to seeing more of her, Axel and Stella as a family as the series continues. 5 Stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2023
“Community, not Condos!”
Beautiful & emotional when it comes to children. They are innocent to the world and accept a parent’s love unconditionally. Stella is that child.
Overall - broken promises is what happened here. Friendship trumps siblings - or do they? It was a lovely story, but also felt long.
It took 7 years to finally reveal a hidden secret. Strange how it took so long for some to comprehend.
Axel / Gillian - ??? On love/hate relationship/acquaintance/ sibling friend.
Money, Power & a Vegan. There were amusing sections and steamy demanding sessions.
Stella was the breath of fresh air. Her quirkiness is what made this read, hence unconditional love.
Beautiful & emotional when it comes to children. They are innocent to the world and accept a parent’s love unconditionally. Stella is that child.
Overall - broken promises is what happened here. Friendship trumps siblings - or do they? It was a lovely story, but also felt long.
It took 7 years to finally reveal a hidden secret. Strange how it took so long for some to comprehend.
Axel / Gillian - ??? On love/hate relationship/acquaintance/ sibling friend.
Money, Power & a Vegan. There were amusing sections and steamy demanding sessions.
Stella was the breath of fresh air. Her quirkiness is what made this read, hence unconditional love.
August 20, 2023
This is Book 2 in the Solace Sisters Series by this author, and can be read as a standalone. It is a second chance romance between one time lovers, Gillian and her best friend's brother, Axel. These two flawed but likeable souls and the unique plot make for an enjoyable read. Once they reconnect, their sizzling chemistry and strong connection are undeniable as they navigate the bumpy road to their forever after. It is a love story with drama and steam, sexual tension and chemistry, and twists and turns, plus appealing secondary characters to keep the reader interested. Entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2023
This is a great book, where you finally get to read about the story between Gillian and Axle. They were present in book 1 and i was very interested to read about this couple. They have history where they were seeing each other on the quiet so Axle's sister and Gillian's best friend Lola doesn't find out. Only things never go the way you want. Gillian is hurt by Axle so they become Enemies. In this book all secrets are revealed even Lola's and i didn't see that coming. Great read, very additive. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
Gillan is a strong woman. A business owner and single mom. She protected her heart but she needed to stand up and use her words when it came to her daughter's dad. Axel let his dad push him around. He acted immature and needed to find his backbone earlier than he did. None of this detracted from the enjoyment of reading the story. I loved Lola, Gill's best friend and Axel's sister. All of Gill's sister and her dad were great additions to the book. Of course Stella was a sweet child who acted more than her age.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2023
Lovely second chance romance
A very well written book, great characters all with great personalities. I loved the angst as well as the romance.
The maturity in finding out he was a father to a little girl he knew from birth was sobering to him. He felt hurt as he had just got back with her mum and still was in the dark over her parentage as everyone was led to believe it was her ex's baby. I found him to be very endearing, he could have gone the other way and it may have ruined the current he was understanding and listened. Yes he was hurt but he didn't let it ruin a future.
A very well written book, great characters all with great personalities. I loved the angst as well as the romance.
The maturity in finding out he was a father to a little girl he knew from birth was sobering to him. He felt hurt as he had just got back with her mum and still was in the dark over her parentage as everyone was led to believe it was her ex's baby. I found him to be very endearing, he could have gone the other way and it may have ruined the current he was understanding and listened. Yes he was hurt but he didn't let it ruin a future.
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