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It Must Be True Then
One horrible, 'bury your head under the covers' kind of day.
Two adorable children and their very hot, very single father.
Daisy has realised that when you lose your job, break up with your boyfriend, and become estranged from your sister all at once you really can hit rock bottom.
Seeking to claw her way out from the definition of a bad year, she starts by simply looking like she's clawing her way out. On Instagram. Obviously. But can making her not-so-picture-perfect life look perfect online really help fix her career and love life?
When she takes a stopgap job as a nanny to help a single dad with his girls, being immersed in a close-knit, loving family starts to poke holes in her plan . . . and the closer Daisy gets to someone new, the more she starts to question what the definition of a perfect life really is.
Two adorable children and their very hot, very single father.
Daisy has realised that when you lose your job, break up with your boyfriend, and become estranged from your sister all at once you really can hit rock bottom.
Seeking to claw her way out from the definition of a bad year, she starts by simply looking like she's clawing her way out. On Instagram. Obviously. But can making her not-so-picture-perfect life look perfect online really help fix her career and love life?
When she takes a stopgap job as a nanny to help a single dad with his girls, being immersed in a close-knit, loving family starts to poke holes in her plan . . . and the closer Daisy gets to someone new, the more she starts to question what the definition of a perfect life really is.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2024
24 people are currently reading
11836 people want to read
About the author
Luci Adams
3 books129 followersLuci Adams started out working in tax before moving into copywriting, creating social posts for Apple Music, and assisting with Amazon and BBC productions at Working Title Television. She now works as a senior analyst at The Guardian by day and writes uproariously funny and inventive rom coms by night. Not That Kind of Ever After is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
December 6, 2024
Final Review
Suddenly, I'm glad I have someone to be lonely with. (7:02:07)
I'm always delighted when I find a romance with a non-romantic plot. The romance gains complexity as part of the individual character's developmental arcs. When romance unfolds this way in a book, I think it feels so natural and authentic. I was hooked on the love story here!
This book takes on a wide span of material, but it never devolves into chaos. At the same time, the fmc's life is rife with conflict, and things are always going wrong for her. The author is skilled at balancing all this conflict and activity so the book maintains its logical integrity and pace.
I enjoyed this book so much, it was certainly a pleasant surprise. I recommend this to fans of women's fiction, sister stories, enemies to lovers romance, and redemption stories.
So I don't cry. I sigh. I breathe. And I feel like a whole new woman. A "fuck you, Jackson Oakley" kind of woman. Because life is too short to linger in anger. (9:54:12)
"Don't be a statistic. Be an exception to the rule." (10:34:45)
Reading Notes
Four things I loved:
1. I really like it when my romances are about something besides romance, like almost more significant than the romance. In this one, the fmc is going through professional upheaval, which provides significant story tension in the early part of the book.
2. I love the two children, who are both childlike and believable for their ages.
3. I really appreciate and relate to how important these adult sisters are to each other. Their dynamics and choices regarding their relationship feel authentic to me.
4. This book tells good stories, ones I don't encounter very often. One of these that I really appreciate here is the lesson about the fmc's ex. Once a jerk, always a jerk, this book tells us. It's such a good message and I had no idea how much I needed to hear it until I read this book.
Two things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. This fmc starts out to be pretty obnoxious. The opening scene reveals her reciting data figures in a high pitched stutter while she is receiving oral sex from her boss! Definitely introduces major stakes right away, but I found the fmc annoying at first. Thankfully, her character trajectory is one of the primary subplots, so she changes quickly, often, and by great leaps.
2. The narrator, Josie Charles, gives a good reading, but she doesn't have much variation in her voice for performing different characters.
Rating: 🏙🏙🏙🏙 corporate jobs
Yes!
Finished: Dec 3 '24
Format: Audiobook, Libby
Read this book if you like:
⚔️ enemies to lovers romance
👩🏼🦰 women's fiction
📠 workplace stories
👭🏽 sister stories
🐇 fast-paced
Thank you to the author Luci Adams and publishers St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy IT MUST BE TRUE THEN. I found an accessible (audiobook) copy on Libby. Read by Josie Charles. All views are mine.
---------------
Pre-Read
This is an arc that got away. I've finally figured out how to get accessible copies when NetGalley doesn't provide them. (Please provide accessible files, NetGalley!)
I'm glad to be listening to this finally, though I don't read much romance right now. This one is a compelling character study, so I'm enjoying it so far.
I will update this space as I read.
Suddenly, I'm glad I have someone to be lonely with. (7:02:07)
I'm always delighted when I find a romance with a non-romantic plot. The romance gains complexity as part of the individual character's developmental arcs. When romance unfolds this way in a book, I think it feels so natural and authentic. I was hooked on the love story here!
This book takes on a wide span of material, but it never devolves into chaos. At the same time, the fmc's life is rife with conflict, and things are always going wrong for her. The author is skilled at balancing all this conflict and activity so the book maintains its logical integrity and pace.
I enjoyed this book so much, it was certainly a pleasant surprise. I recommend this to fans of women's fiction, sister stories, enemies to lovers romance, and redemption stories.
So I don't cry. I sigh. I breathe. And I feel like a whole new woman. A "fuck you, Jackson Oakley" kind of woman. Because life is too short to linger in anger. (9:54:12)
"Don't be a statistic. Be an exception to the rule." (10:34:45)
Reading Notes
Four things I loved:
1. I really like it when my romances are about something besides romance, like almost more significant than the romance. In this one, the fmc is going through professional upheaval, which provides significant story tension in the early part of the book.
2. I love the two children, who are both childlike and believable for their ages.
3. I really appreciate and relate to how important these adult sisters are to each other. Their dynamics and choices regarding their relationship feel authentic to me.
4. This book tells good stories, ones I don't encounter very often. One of these that I really appreciate here is the lesson about the fmc's ex. Once a jerk, always a jerk, this book tells us. It's such a good message and I had no idea how much I needed to hear it until I read this book.
Two things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. This fmc starts out to be pretty obnoxious. The opening scene reveals her reciting data figures in a high pitched stutter while she is receiving oral sex from her boss! Definitely introduces major stakes right away, but I found the fmc annoying at first. Thankfully, her character trajectory is one of the primary subplots, so she changes quickly, often, and by great leaps.
2. The narrator, Josie Charles, gives a good reading, but she doesn't have much variation in her voice for performing different characters.
Rating: 🏙🏙🏙🏙 corporate jobs
Yes!
Finished: Dec 3 '24
Format: Audiobook, Libby
Read this book if you like:
⚔️ enemies to lovers romance
👩🏼🦰 women's fiction
📠 workplace stories
👭🏽 sister stories
🐇 fast-paced
Thank you to the author Luci Adams and publishers St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy IT MUST BE TRUE THEN. I found an accessible (audiobook) copy on Libby. Read by Josie Charles. All views are mine.
---------------
Pre-Read
This is an arc that got away. I've finally figured out how to get accessible copies when NetGalley doesn't provide them. (Please provide accessible files, NetGalley!)
I'm glad to be listening to this finally, though I don't read much romance right now. This one is a compelling character study, so I'm enjoying it so far.
I will update this space as I read.
December 21, 2023
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“It Must Be True Then” is a contemporary romance book by Lucy Adams. I’ve really mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, we’ve got the main character, Daisy, who is let go from her statistics job after 13 years. She has a sister who flits in and out of her life. Daisy is pining for a guy - who drops her like a hot potato - who she wants to woo back. Mixed into this is Daisy trying to find a job (seemingly any job).
The pacing of this book was also all over the place - the first half was incredibly slow. I made it about halfway through the book and could just not fully get into it. I'm not sure if it was the pacing of the book, I could not relate to Daisy at all, the writing style, or maybe I am just not that into contemporary romances. I think in real life Daisy would drive me crazy, though.
I honestly cannot barely comprehend half of what I read. This could be the book for someone else though, it has stellar reviews and that is what made me want to check it out, but I realized quickly, it just was not for me, personally.
___________________________________________________________
okay, i started this book earlier today... and tried so hard to like it. i made it somewhere around 40% and i just can't. i really can't get into this at all 😮💨
i'll have a better review later on when i have my laptop.
“It Must Be True Then” is a contemporary romance book by Lucy Adams. I’ve really mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, we’ve got the main character, Daisy, who is let go from her statistics job after 13 years. She has a sister who flits in and out of her life. Daisy is pining for a guy - who drops her like a hot potato - who she wants to woo back. Mixed into this is Daisy trying to find a job (seemingly any job).
The pacing of this book was also all over the place - the first half was incredibly slow. I made it about halfway through the book and could just not fully get into it. I'm not sure if it was the pacing of the book, I could not relate to Daisy at all, the writing style, or maybe I am just not that into contemporary romances. I think in real life Daisy would drive me crazy, though.
I honestly cannot barely comprehend half of what I read. This could be the book for someone else though, it has stellar reviews and that is what made me want to check it out, but I realized quickly, it just was not for me, personally.
___________________________________________________________
okay, i started this book earlier today... and tried so hard to like it. i made it somewhere around 40% and i just can't. i really can't get into this at all 😮💨
i'll have a better review later on when i have my laptop.
February 24, 2024
This had a little bit of backwards storytelling, so it took me a minute to get situated with the use of flashbacks to reveal pieces of information, but I quickly became invested in the endearing mess that was Daisy Peterson!
After losing her job of thirteen years, her boyfriend dumping her, and her relationship with her sister crumbling, Daisy is determined to climb her way out of rock bottom. I loved in this hilariously desperate attempt to win back her old life, Daisy slowly discovers the importance of embracing her true self.
Lots of uplifting messages in this one, especially involving social comparison and finding people that accept you and not just the curated version of what you think will please them. I’m a sucker for women’s fiction with humour and life lessons. And without giving too much away, the romance was beyond precious!
"I have been so, incredibly lonely, and in this vast pit of loneliness that is life, I find myself a lot less lonely with you."
(heat level: closed door + one very minor, very mild scene in prologue)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
After losing her job of thirteen years, her boyfriend dumping her, and her relationship with her sister crumbling, Daisy is determined to climb her way out of rock bottom. I loved in this hilariously desperate attempt to win back her old life, Daisy slowly discovers the importance of embracing her true self.
Lots of uplifting messages in this one, especially involving social comparison and finding people that accept you and not just the curated version of what you think will please them. I’m a sucker for women’s fiction with humour and life lessons. And without giving too much away, the romance was beyond precious!
"I have been so, incredibly lonely, and in this vast pit of loneliness that is life, I find myself a lot less lonely with you."
(heat level: closed door + one very minor, very mild scene in prologue)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
March 15, 2024
3.5 rounded up.
I admit this one took me awhile to get into but once I did I was rooting for Daisy to reconcile with her sister and find her people. Part women's fiction, part romance, this was a feel-good, heartwarming story that gave me Bridget Jones vibes. Good on audio too but not quite as good as her last book (in my opinion). Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Steam level: kissing only
I admit this one took me awhile to get into but once I did I was rooting for Daisy to reconcile with her sister and find her people. Part women's fiction, part romance, this was a feel-good, heartwarming story that gave me Bridget Jones vibes. Good on audio too but not quite as good as her last book (in my opinion). Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Steam level: kissing only
February 23, 2024
so this book took me almost a month to read with school and like life and it was entertaining but i definitely didn't love it. I wasn't dying to read it and I was ok not devouring it in one (or ten) sittings.
DAISY was so stubborn. all the time. I just feel like it would've been so much shorter if she just like used her heart a little more and some logic, and used her brain a little less? Archie was precious. and so were Cara and Bailey. But obviously, I really struggled cause I didn't like the main character. I was also just confused at some points with the flash backs being told and how they seemed randomly plugged in and choppy.
It wasn't 2 stars tho, it was at least 3. The actual writing was really well written. I would read this author again for sure!
DAISY was so stubborn. all the time. I just feel like it would've been so much shorter if she just like used her heart a little more and some logic, and used her brain a little less? Archie was precious. and so were Cara and Bailey. But obviously, I really struggled cause I didn't like the main character. I was also just confused at some points with the flash backs being told and how they seemed randomly plugged in and choppy.
It wasn't 2 stars tho, it was at least 3. The actual writing was really well written. I would read this author again for sure!
October 1, 2024
Daisy hits rock bottom after losing her job, boyfriend, and becoming estranged from her sister. To bounce back, she decides to create an image of success on Instagram. However, working as a nanny for a single father and his two daughters exposes her to genuine family love, causing her to question her online facade. She wonders if curating a perfect life on social media will revive her career, heal her relationship with her sister, or reunite her with her shallow ex. As she grows closer to someone new, she begins to doubt what she truly wants.
Overall I really liked this book about finding yourself and doing what makes you happy. I loved the main characters and how their friendship develops. Bailey and Cara were just adorable and every scene they were in were some of my favorites. I think I just wanted a little more out of the book (like I really wanted Jackson to get called out for his games). The pacing seemed a little off to me and the flashbacks were a little confusing (as to where they fit into the overall timeline) and felt choppy at times. This is a definitely a slow burn but had a great message that I really liked.
Overall I really liked this book about finding yourself and doing what makes you happy. I loved the main characters and how their friendship develops. Bailey and Cara were just adorable and every scene they were in were some of my favorites. I think I just wanted a little more out of the book (like I really wanted Jackson to get called out for his games). The pacing seemed a little off to me and the flashbacks were a little confusing (as to where they fit into the overall timeline) and felt choppy at times. This is a definitely a slow burn but had a great message that I really liked.
November 12, 2025
Loved this one. The beginning didn’t seem promising at all, but the more I read, the more I liked the story. The realism, the pacing, and the connection between the two of them were more than enough for me.
February 23, 2024
Thank you to St Martins Press and NetGalley, for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I went into this book optimistically thinking it would be a sweet and funny Rom Com… it was not. It was not really a romance at all, it was more like a sad retelling of Daisy’s days, over and over.
Daisy was an extremely hard main character to like. She saw the world as very black and white, and was quite harsh in her judgements of people. While I did feel bad that she lost her job and was dumped in the same day, it was hard to really empathize with her when everyday all she does is judge other people, and take pics for her instagram.
Also the “romance” between Archie and Daisy didn’t feel real, or genuine, or even happy. It always felt awkward, their conversations, their interactions, and every single cringeworthy time Daisy delivered a sour speech to Archie that she would NEVER want children, even though he has two children. Daisy felt insufferable to me, Archie seemed less than interested in her, and this whole book felt like a jumbled mess of mixed timelines/life events that just didn’t really add up to any great story.
I went into this book optimistically thinking it would be a sweet and funny Rom Com… it was not. It was not really a romance at all, it was more like a sad retelling of Daisy’s days, over and over.
Daisy was an extremely hard main character to like. She saw the world as very black and white, and was quite harsh in her judgements of people. While I did feel bad that she lost her job and was dumped in the same day, it was hard to really empathize with her when everyday all she does is judge other people, and take pics for her instagram.
Also the “romance” between Archie and Daisy didn’t feel real, or genuine, or even happy. It always felt awkward, their conversations, their interactions, and every single cringeworthy time Daisy delivered a sour speech to Archie that she would NEVER want children, even though he has two children. Daisy felt insufferable to me, Archie seemed less than interested in her, and this whole book felt like a jumbled mess of mixed timelines/life events that just didn’t really add up to any great story.
November 19, 2023
I received this book as an arc from NetGalley. One day the FMC is working and dating a men she works with. The next moment she looses her job and her boyfriend dumps her. I usually like a story about a women pulling herself out of rock bottom. This book didn’t do that for me. I felt like the story was very slow. I had to keep putting the book down and pick it up the next day.
December 7, 2025
It took me such a long time to read this book in its entirety. It had a lot of wonderful messages and plot points, but it often felt long and scattered.
One of the main themes was all about what we show on social media and how it isn’t the whole truth (and sometimes, it’s a downright lie). I think it’s an important message to reinforce, and it was included in a unique way.
I also liked reading about Daisy’s estranged relationship with her mom, the mess of a thing she had with Jackson, and the bond she formed with Bailey and Cara. There was a lot of depth in the relationships in this book, and of course, Daisy and Archie’s love story was the best part.
Where I struggled the most was the pace. I wish things could’ve progressed more clearly. I also don’t know how I felt about the first proclamation of “I love you”. But I can be very picky with romances, so it could be a me thing.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Griffin for my gifted copy!
One of the main themes was all about what we show on social media and how it isn’t the whole truth (and sometimes, it’s a downright lie). I think it’s an important message to reinforce, and it was included in a unique way.
I also liked reading about Daisy’s estranged relationship with her mom, the mess of a thing she had with Jackson, and the bond she formed with Bailey and Cara. There was a lot of depth in the relationships in this book, and of course, Daisy and Archie’s love story was the best part.
Where I struggled the most was the pace. I wish things could’ve progressed more clearly. I also don’t know how I felt about the first proclamation of “I love you”. But I can be very picky with romances, so it could be a me thing.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Griffin for my gifted copy!
December 5, 2023
Booklist review submitted!
February 16, 2024
Really enjoyed this ARC! Full review to come
March 9, 2024
*3.5 stars*
May 25, 2024
spurred a fair amount of self reflection honestly about the assumptions we make about ourselves and how we can be safe spaces for others
June 7, 2024
I really wanted to like this book but it took awhile to get into it. It also wandered a bit here and there.
Cute story.
Thanks Edelweiss and Griffin Publishers.
Cute story.
Thanks Edelweiss and Griffin Publishers.
July 21, 2024
This was so cute and fun! I really enjoyed this book. I was confused in the beginning but it all really came together in the end!
February 24, 2024
Roses: Cara was the best. She was one of the better kid characters I’ve read in a book. She was so loving and funny and came across very mature for her age. Archie was awesome too. He was an all round great book boyfriend that understanding, charming, funny, and emotionally mature. The story was written at a great pace and flowed pretty naturally with the plot.
Thorns: Daisy kinda sucked. She was aloof to a lot of normal ways of life because she chose to be that way. She was really stubborn about things that she shouldn’t have had issues with because they weren’t her situations to judge. She frustrated me as a reader because she was so intelligent but so dumb at the same time. She didn’t ever really show empathy even though she apologized millions of times. The Jackson situation you could tell was coming from a mile away. I was more frustrated with the storyline of successful parents aren’t real. I thought that was a bad plot choice. I get the author wanted to have family trauma be the root of her story but still it was a bad taste in my mouth. I also didn’t like the fact she even knew she didn’t want kids yet still chose to start making them a presence in her life. Again that didn’t sit right with me.
Thorns: Daisy kinda sucked. She was aloof to a lot of normal ways of life because she chose to be that way. She was really stubborn about things that she shouldn’t have had issues with because they weren’t her situations to judge. She frustrated me as a reader because she was so intelligent but so dumb at the same time. She didn’t ever really show empathy even though she apologized millions of times. The Jackson situation you could tell was coming from a mile away. I was more frustrated with the storyline of successful parents aren’t real. I thought that was a bad plot choice. I get the author wanted to have family trauma be the root of her story but still it was a bad taste in my mouth. I also didn’t like the fact she even knew she didn’t want kids yet still chose to start making them a presence in her life. Again that didn’t sit right with me.
May 20, 2025
It wasn’t my favorite story and felt like it was moving kind of slow at times. The back and forth flashbacks were sometimes hard to follow too.
May 4, 2024
Unfortunately I didn’t like this book. I don’t know about the main character, I think the way she would go off on rants was just something I couldn’t really get into. But this book might still be for you! Thank you to Netgalley and St Martin Press for a free copy.
May 6, 2025
A good book to read when you feel lost and confused.
March 12, 2024
This was a cute book with a really enlightening message. I really enjoyed the main character, except when she started acting stupid for the third act break up, but alas she needed to learn her lesson. I’m glad I randomly requested this one it was fun!
Thank you Netgalley!
Thank you Netgalley!
May 26, 2024
Overall I liked this book on audio but was a slow start. However, the format and timeline were hard to follow especially on audio so maybe the physical book would’ve been easier. I don’t know. The last half was great (a lot better than the first half)even though hard to believe and flashbacks were hard to follow. It’s in the vein of Sophie Cousens and also gave me Bridget Jones’s Diary vibes!
Thanks Macmillan Audio for this audio copy!
Thanks Macmillan Audio for this audio copy!
March 11, 2024
This book turned out just to be an okay read for me. Mainly because the flashbacks were a little confusing and the character of Daisy was not particularly loveable.
I did find Cara to be the most adorable character. She was well written and interesting. Archie and Bailey were also easily likeable characters.
I did find Cara to be the most adorable character. She was well written and interesting. Archie and Bailey were also easily likeable characters.
May 23, 2024
It Must Be True Then
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Luci Adams
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis:
*One horrible, “bury your head under the covers” kind of day
*Two adorable children to nanny; and
*Their very hot, very single father
Daisy has realized you really can hit rock bottom when you lose your job, your boyfriend, and are estranged from your sister all at once. Seeking to claw her way out from the very definition of a bad year, her plan is to start by simply looking like she’s clawing her way out of rock bottom. On Instagram. Obviously.
But when she takes a stopgap job as a nanny to help a single father with his two young girls, being immersed in a close-knit, loving family starts to poke holes in her plan. Can making her not-so-picture-perfect life look perfect online really help her derailed career get back on track? Can it mend her relationship with her unreliable and painfully irritating sister? And can it get her back in the arms of her unbelievably beautiful and shallow ex…and as she gets closer to someone new, does she even want to?
My Thoughts: Daisy has had a very rough year. She lost her statistics job after 13 hard working years. Daisy and her sister are estranged. Daisy perceives her sister as annoying and a pain, not to mention unreliable. Lastly, her ex-boyfriend just dropped her like she was nothing. Now she wants to spend time in a gap-filling job, try to mend the fence with her sister, and woo her ex-boyfriend to take her back. She takes a job as a nanny to two amazing children with their very hot father. The pacing of the storyline seemed rushed and chaotic. This was part women’s fiction and part romance, which I did not mind.
The writing style took me a minute to adjust to with the flashbacks, but once I did, it was like second nature. This is a closed door romcom with one elevated scene. Daisy is independent, very stubborn, and had her life desires backwards. Daisy was so worried to keep a perfect life on social media that she almost misses out on real life and real connections that will last a lifetime. It took me a bit to connect to her, but when I did, I was really rooting for her. Archie was incredibly charming, funny, patient, and lightyears ahead in the emotional maturity. I loved how Daisy and Archie took their time with their relationship, being friends first, and then building upon that. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and intriguing. The supporting characters, the children, Cara and her sister, really did elevate the storyline. They were adorable, well behaved, and sweet. The author’s writing style was complex, funny, swoony, thought-provoking, and was closed door.
While a bit chaotic, the storyline really had some great inspiring messages, such as always, stand in your truth while being true to thyself. Another big one is a lot of people make their life “seem perfect” via social media, but live a very different life, and thrive from acceptance with their social media audience. The message is that find real people that you connect with that accept you for you. This was a cute storyline that was humorous women’s fiction that had important life lessons along the way. The only con for me were the flashbacks. They were not bad in themselves, I think if they were more clearly labeled in the storyline, they would have flowed better. I would recommend this story to other readers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Luci Adams
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis:
*One horrible, “bury your head under the covers” kind of day
*Two adorable children to nanny; and
*Their very hot, very single father
Daisy has realized you really can hit rock bottom when you lose your job, your boyfriend, and are estranged from your sister all at once. Seeking to claw her way out from the very definition of a bad year, her plan is to start by simply looking like she’s clawing her way out of rock bottom. On Instagram. Obviously.
But when she takes a stopgap job as a nanny to help a single father with his two young girls, being immersed in a close-knit, loving family starts to poke holes in her plan. Can making her not-so-picture-perfect life look perfect online really help her derailed career get back on track? Can it mend her relationship with her unreliable and painfully irritating sister? And can it get her back in the arms of her unbelievably beautiful and shallow ex…and as she gets closer to someone new, does she even want to?
My Thoughts: Daisy has had a very rough year. She lost her statistics job after 13 hard working years. Daisy and her sister are estranged. Daisy perceives her sister as annoying and a pain, not to mention unreliable. Lastly, her ex-boyfriend just dropped her like she was nothing. Now she wants to spend time in a gap-filling job, try to mend the fence with her sister, and woo her ex-boyfriend to take her back. She takes a job as a nanny to two amazing children with their very hot father. The pacing of the storyline seemed rushed and chaotic. This was part women’s fiction and part romance, which I did not mind.
The writing style took me a minute to adjust to with the flashbacks, but once I did, it was like second nature. This is a closed door romcom with one elevated scene. Daisy is independent, very stubborn, and had her life desires backwards. Daisy was so worried to keep a perfect life on social media that she almost misses out on real life and real connections that will last a lifetime. It took me a bit to connect to her, but when I did, I was really rooting for her. Archie was incredibly charming, funny, patient, and lightyears ahead in the emotional maturity. I loved how Daisy and Archie took their time with their relationship, being friends first, and then building upon that. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and intriguing. The supporting characters, the children, Cara and her sister, really did elevate the storyline. They were adorable, well behaved, and sweet. The author’s writing style was complex, funny, swoony, thought-provoking, and was closed door.
While a bit chaotic, the storyline really had some great inspiring messages, such as always, stand in your truth while being true to thyself. Another big one is a lot of people make their life “seem perfect” via social media, but live a very different life, and thrive from acceptance with their social media audience. The message is that find real people that you connect with that accept you for you. This was a cute storyline that was humorous women’s fiction that had important life lessons along the way. The only con for me were the flashbacks. They were not bad in themselves, I think if they were more clearly labeled in the storyline, they would have flowed better. I would recommend this story to other readers.
March 12, 2024
Amazon / B&N / Target / Books A Million / Bookshop.org
Daisy's lost her job and her boyfriend and she's fighting with her sister. But somehow she ends up snagging a nanny job to two adorable kids. It's this job that will change her life, if she can get out of her head, open herself up feelings.
So this story had 3, good things:
1) Cara and Bailey are absolutely adorable, with different enough perspectives and personalities that they are easily able to stand on their own.
2) Archie is simply the best kind of bbf - sweet, patient and loving, not to mention, he's pretty darn cute.
3) The writing and the storyline are great.
Unfortunately, the 1 bad thing, was bad enough to bring down my rating a star. Daisy. Sigh...she is definitely the worst part, the only bad part, of this story. She's judgmental and rigid, and being in her sort of frantic head the whole way through is exhausting! I dislike her so much that it dulled my enjoyment of the rest of the story and characters. But, even though I can't stand Daisy, I like everything else. The other characters, the growth and heart, and the fun storyline. The romance itself is slow burn as Archie and Daisy take time developing a solid friendship first. And the rest of the relationships stand out too.
ARC provided by St. Martin's Press for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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December 2, 2023
"It Must Be True Then," readers are taken on a rollercoaster journey through the life of Daisy, a woman who finds herself at rock bottom after losing her job, her boyfriend, and becoming estranged from her sister all in one fell swoop. Faced with the daunting task of rebuilding her life, Daisy hatches a plan to document her supposed climb out of the depths of despair on Instagram. Little does she know, this seemingly simple plan will lead her down a path filled with unexpected twists, heartwarming connections, and soul-searching moments. The story begins on a day so terrible that one would rather bury their head under the covers than face the world. Daisy's life takes an intriguing turn when she accepts a temporary job as a nanny for a charming single father and his two adorable children. As she becomes absorbed in the warmth and love of this close-knit family, Daisy begins to question her superficial plan of portraying a perfect life on social media. Can the façade she presents online truly help her regain control of her spiraling career? Will it mend the fractured bond with her unreliable and irritating sister? And perhaps most importantly, does she even desire a reunion with her gorgeous yet shallow ex-boyfriend, especially as she finds herself growing closer to someone new? Adams masterfully weaves a tale that explores the complexities of modern life, the allure of social media, and the search for inner happiness. Through Daisy's journey, she delves deep into the human need for validation, questioning whether the carefully curated online personas we create can truly bring us the fulfillment we seek. The author's engaging writing style keeps readers captivated, effortlessly blending humor, emotion, and thought-provoking insights. "It Must Be True Then" is not merely a story about finding love or reclaiming one's life; it is a profound exploration of self-discovery. Daisy's character development is both relatable and inspiring as she navigates the challenges of her personal and professional life. Adams artfully paints a realistic picture of the fragility of relationships, the complexities of family dynamics, and the importance of authenticity in an increasingly digital world. With each page, the reader is drawn further into Daisy's world, eagerly anticipating the moments of vulnerability, triumph, and personal growth that lie ahead. Adams' narrative prowess shines through as she skillfully balances the heartwarming moments of connection with the harsh realities of life. The story leaves a lasting impact, prompting readers to reflect on their own pursuit of happiness and the true meaning of success. In conclusion, "It Must Be True Then" is an enthralling tale that will resonate with readers from all walks of life. Luci Adams' exceptional storytelling abilities, combined with the relatable characters and thought-provoking themes, make this book a must-read for those seeking a captivating and introspective literary experience. Prepare to be immersed in Daisy's world as she discovers that true happiness lies not in the perfect portrayal of one's life online, but in the authenticity and connections found in the real world.
March 20, 2024
For some reason, I have been avoiding contemporary romances. But when NetGalley sent me the widget for It Must Be True Then, I decided to end my dry spell. Now that I have read the book (and enjoyed it), I want to say that I can’t wait to read more books by the author. From the prologue to the end, I laughed at Daisy’s antics or cried with her.
It Must Be True Then’s storyline centers around Daisy. In a matter of a few days, Daisy lost her boyfriend, job and stopped speaking to her younger sister. Giving herself a couple of weeks to mourn the loss of her job (where she worked for 13 years) and to plan on getting her boyfriend back, Daisy decides to look for a job that can tide her over until she gets one in her field (statistics). The job she gets is a nanny to two adorable children. As Daisy settles into nannying, she grows closer to the children and their father. But she has plans, including getting a new job, getting back her ex, and making up with her sister. But things don’t always go as planned.
The author had an interesting way of writing the past year of Daisy’s life. In between the chaos that was currently happening, the author snuck in chapters that detailed how she met Jackson and what their relationship was like (hint: it wasn’t much), what happened to cause her to lose her job, and the reason she wasn’t speaking to her sister. I thought it was brilliant because it allowed me to compare that Daisy to the Daisy presented throughout the book.
Daisy was tough to like. From the beginning, she was selfish and self-centered. The author made it very clear that this was the type of person she was and was very unapologetic about it. But as the book went on and her backstory took shape, I couldn’t help but feel bad for her. Not that it made me like her anymore, but I did pity her.
I wouldn’t say I liked Daisy’s relationship with Archie for the above reasons. It was all take and no give on her side. But, to be honest with you guys and me, she was actively trying to get her ex back, so how she acted made sense. I did find her speech about not wanting children, any children, very distasteful since Archie had two. I also felt her relationship with Archie was a little forced and held no sparks.
As I said above, the secondary characters made the book. I loved Archie, his girls, and his relationship with them. I liked Daisy’s best friend, who wasn’t afraid to call Daisy out on her BS but was also very supportive. I even liked Daisy’s younger sister once she realized her way of life wasn’t working. They made the book for me.
A very important secondary storyline is also centered on Daisy and her mother. I won’t get into it, but I felt bad for Daisy’s mother. Mistakes happen, and she paid dearly for them.
Despite everything I wrote in this review, I did like the book. Daisy’s character progression was terrific to read (she matured throughout the book). There were several laugh-out-loud parts (the Instagram pictures had me dying laughing). But the one that stood out the most to me was why she lost her job. It was a well-written chapter highlighting everything wrong with today’s society, and Daisy was correct with everything she said.
The end of It Must Be True Then was sweet, and I loved that Daisy had found peace with herself. The HEA with her and Archie wasn’t forever. It was more of a right now HEA (if that makes sense).
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press, St. Martin’s Griffin, NetGalley, and Luci Adams for allowing me to read and review this ARC of It Must Be True Then. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
It Must Be True Then’s storyline centers around Daisy. In a matter of a few days, Daisy lost her boyfriend, job and stopped speaking to her younger sister. Giving herself a couple of weeks to mourn the loss of her job (where she worked for 13 years) and to plan on getting her boyfriend back, Daisy decides to look for a job that can tide her over until she gets one in her field (statistics). The job she gets is a nanny to two adorable children. As Daisy settles into nannying, she grows closer to the children and their father. But she has plans, including getting a new job, getting back her ex, and making up with her sister. But things don’t always go as planned.
The author had an interesting way of writing the past year of Daisy’s life. In between the chaos that was currently happening, the author snuck in chapters that detailed how she met Jackson and what their relationship was like (hint: it wasn’t much), what happened to cause her to lose her job, and the reason she wasn’t speaking to her sister. I thought it was brilliant because it allowed me to compare that Daisy to the Daisy presented throughout the book.
Daisy was tough to like. From the beginning, she was selfish and self-centered. The author made it very clear that this was the type of person she was and was very unapologetic about it. But as the book went on and her backstory took shape, I couldn’t help but feel bad for her. Not that it made me like her anymore, but I did pity her.
I wouldn’t say I liked Daisy’s relationship with Archie for the above reasons. It was all take and no give on her side. But, to be honest with you guys and me, she was actively trying to get her ex back, so how she acted made sense. I did find her speech about not wanting children, any children, very distasteful since Archie had two. I also felt her relationship with Archie was a little forced and held no sparks.
As I said above, the secondary characters made the book. I loved Archie, his girls, and his relationship with them. I liked Daisy’s best friend, who wasn’t afraid to call Daisy out on her BS but was also very supportive. I even liked Daisy’s younger sister once she realized her way of life wasn’t working. They made the book for me.
A very important secondary storyline is also centered on Daisy and her mother. I won’t get into it, but I felt bad for Daisy’s mother. Mistakes happen, and she paid dearly for them.
Despite everything I wrote in this review, I did like the book. Daisy’s character progression was terrific to read (she matured throughout the book). There were several laugh-out-loud parts (the Instagram pictures had me dying laughing). But the one that stood out the most to me was why she lost her job. It was a well-written chapter highlighting everything wrong with today’s society, and Daisy was correct with everything she said.
The end of It Must Be True Then was sweet, and I loved that Daisy had found peace with herself. The HEA with her and Archie wasn’t forever. It was more of a right now HEA (if that makes sense).
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press, St. Martin’s Griffin, NetGalley, and Luci Adams for allowing me to read and review this ARC of It Must Be True Then. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
March 25, 2024
3.5/5 stars.
Daisy hits rock bottom when she loses her job, boyfriend, and is estranged from her sister all at once. She decides the only way to claw herself out from rock bottom is to fake it until she makes it... using Instagram. Daisy decides to take a stopgap job as a nanny to a single father of two young girls, but being immersed in this close-knit and loving family begins to unravel her plan, leaving doubt and worry to take over as to whether she can get her career back on track, gain back her ex-boyfriend... but as she gets closer to someone new, does she even want all of these things anymore?
IT MUST BE TRUE THEN is a really sweet read that centers on love, finding yourself and your self worth, and second chances. The first couple of chapters start off with a bang as we see what led to Daisy hitting rock bottom and losing everything she values. These scenes are rife with humour and had me giggling out loud. The overall pacing of the novel is a bit wonky, leaving the first half of the book to feel very slow before we get to the part where things really pick up for Daisy.
This is a winding story that's focus is on Daisy finding herself, including her values, her interests, her desires, and ultimately her self worth. It's a journey with many ups and downs as she struggles to find her way to happiness. I liked Daisy's character but there were many times where I wanted to shake her. She has so many preconceived notions and judgments that form a barrier between her and those that she loves, and there are times where her stubbornness and belief that she knows what's right over others is stifling and really throws her into hot water.
I loved Betzy, Daisy's best friend, and Mia, Daisy's sister. They are both excellent characters who are supportive of Daisy but don't let Daisy get too far down her own rabbit hole of grief and loss. They are both vibrant, sensible, and caring characters. I would be remiss if I didn't mention Bailey and Cara who stole my heart from the get go.
I absolutely adored Archie as the MMC. He is a fantastic character; he is kind, caring, and has a good sense of humour. His emotional depth and emotional awareness are well done. I loved how honest, transparent, and supportive he was with Daisy. Their communication, while strained at times, was really well done, maintaining open dialogue between the two.
The romance aspect of this novel is really well done and I loved seeing how the two main characters come together over the course of the novel. The relationship that develops is beautiful and heart-warming, leaving you rooting for the characters to find their way together. The spice level for this novel is very minimal and closed door.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, St Martin's Press, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.
Daisy hits rock bottom when she loses her job, boyfriend, and is estranged from her sister all at once. She decides the only way to claw herself out from rock bottom is to fake it until she makes it... using Instagram. Daisy decides to take a stopgap job as a nanny to a single father of two young girls, but being immersed in this close-knit and loving family begins to unravel her plan, leaving doubt and worry to take over as to whether she can get her career back on track, gain back her ex-boyfriend... but as she gets closer to someone new, does she even want all of these things anymore?
IT MUST BE TRUE THEN is a really sweet read that centers on love, finding yourself and your self worth, and second chances. The first couple of chapters start off with a bang as we see what led to Daisy hitting rock bottom and losing everything she values. These scenes are rife with humour and had me giggling out loud. The overall pacing of the novel is a bit wonky, leaving the first half of the book to feel very slow before we get to the part where things really pick up for Daisy.
This is a winding story that's focus is on Daisy finding herself, including her values, her interests, her desires, and ultimately her self worth. It's a journey with many ups and downs as she struggles to find her way to happiness. I liked Daisy's character but there were many times where I wanted to shake her. She has so many preconceived notions and judgments that form a barrier between her and those that she loves, and there are times where her stubbornness and belief that she knows what's right over others is stifling and really throws her into hot water.
I loved Betzy, Daisy's best friend, and Mia, Daisy's sister. They are both excellent characters who are supportive of Daisy but don't let Daisy get too far down her own rabbit hole of grief and loss. They are both vibrant, sensible, and caring characters. I would be remiss if I didn't mention Bailey and Cara who stole my heart from the get go.
I absolutely adored Archie as the MMC. He is a fantastic character; he is kind, caring, and has a good sense of humour. His emotional depth and emotional awareness are well done. I loved how honest, transparent, and supportive he was with Daisy. Their communication, while strained at times, was really well done, maintaining open dialogue between the two.
The romance aspect of this novel is really well done and I loved seeing how the two main characters come together over the course of the novel. The relationship that develops is beautiful and heart-warming, leaving you rooting for the characters to find their way together. The spice level for this novel is very minimal and closed door.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, St Martin's Press, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.
February 16, 2024
Illustrated book covers aren’t usually my thing, but sometimes I come across one that makes me sit back, ponder and appreciate.
It Must Be True Then
book jacket took my breath away. It’s all about familiarity, the skyline of London in the background, those few words on the left that flared my reading appetite, and the heroine opening her arms to what I would imagine adventure. Consequently, I was intrigued even before reading the first line.
I love discovering new authors, and Lili Adams is my most recent favourite. Not knowing what to expect, she drew me into Daisy’s story with much more than just lightheartedness. Romance comedy has to keep me immersed because otherwise, I quickly lose interest–yeah, it’s hard to make me laugh. However, I devoured every single word while chuckling and swooning.
I found it incredibly easy to relate to Daisy. We’ve all had embarrassing mishaps at some time or another, and her ones are no exception. Moreover, losing her job as a data analyst, falling out with her sister and getting dumped by her boyfriend–he’s a real piece of work, only adds insult to injury. Weakened, she’s determined to step up her game and get back on track. Where does she do it? One solution is posting on a social media platform, naturally! However, it’s a far cry from showing reality.
Daisy’s voyage of self-discovery is enhanced when she befriends single dad Archie and his beautiful daughters. Adams has questioned acceptance and dexterously weaves the significance of happiness in the now amidst coming to terms with past truths. Narrated from Daisy’s perspective, she also took me to a place I’d all love to visit.
Observing Archie and Daisy get to know each other well favours this immensely gratifying read. Adam’s building of the slow burn is utterly delectable, giving readers an in-depth look at their emotions, insecurities and joint growth. And the girls–my word, so unalike but so endearing. Give me energetic interactions in family dynamics any day, and I’m all in!
Although steaminess is low-key, which I am eternally grateful for, being spoilt with laugh-out-loud scenes and heartfelt memorable moments brings out all the feels and inspires readers to step out of their comfort zone. I thoroughly enjoyed Adam’s offering and cannot recommend it highly enough. Bravo!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in favour of an honest review.
I love discovering new authors, and Lili Adams is my most recent favourite. Not knowing what to expect, she drew me into Daisy’s story with much more than just lightheartedness. Romance comedy has to keep me immersed because otherwise, I quickly lose interest–yeah, it’s hard to make me laugh. However, I devoured every single word while chuckling and swooning.
I found it incredibly easy to relate to Daisy. We’ve all had embarrassing mishaps at some time or another, and her ones are no exception. Moreover, losing her job as a data analyst, falling out with her sister and getting dumped by her boyfriend–he’s a real piece of work, only adds insult to injury. Weakened, she’s determined to step up her game and get back on track. Where does she do it? One solution is posting on a social media platform, naturally! However, it’s a far cry from showing reality.
Daisy’s voyage of self-discovery is enhanced when she befriends single dad Archie and his beautiful daughters. Adams has questioned acceptance and dexterously weaves the significance of happiness in the now amidst coming to terms with past truths. Narrated from Daisy’s perspective, she also took me to a place I’d all love to visit.
Observing Archie and Daisy get to know each other well favours this immensely gratifying read. Adam’s building of the slow burn is utterly delectable, giving readers an in-depth look at their emotions, insecurities and joint growth. And the girls–my word, so unalike but so endearing. Give me energetic interactions in family dynamics any day, and I’m all in!
Although steaminess is low-key, which I am eternally grateful for, being spoilt with laugh-out-loud scenes and heartfelt memorable moments brings out all the feels and inspires readers to step out of their comfort zone. I thoroughly enjoyed Adam’s offering and cannot recommend it highly enough. Bravo!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in favour of an honest review.
January 9, 2024
Early in this book, I wasn’t sure it was going to be for me, but by the end I was so pleased with it.
Daisy’s life is in a downward spiral. She’s lost her job of 13 years, lost her boyfriend, and is in the midst of a long fight with her sister. Meeting two young girls in a supermarket sets off a series of events that take Daisy on a journey of self-discovery and reevaluating what she thought she wanted from life; a journey that also includes getting to know their handsome dad along the way.
Things started off very chaotic with the pacing and storytelling for me here. There were a lot of flashbacks woven in with Daisy’s present struggles to explain how she got the point that she was at, and they threw me off a bit at times. By the end, they had filtered out and in a way, I ultimately felt like the writing reflected Daisy’s character as she settled more into herself. I loved the growth she experienced. I was proud of her opening up to change, compromise, and rethinking things she thought she was certain of, but she also stayed true to the core perspectives that were important to her.
The book was what I would classify as “romance-lite” as Daisy and Archie spend most of their time together building a friendship before they allow their feelings to possibly venture from the friend zone. That said, the moments between them and their moments with Archie’s daughters, Bailey and Cara, were some of my favorite parts of the book. I loved the girls. They were so different but their personalities felt vibrant in different was. They weren’t just a plot point but fully formed characters who were just as important to Daisy’s story - maybe even more than - Archie’s role.
After a bit of a slow start, this really grew into a heartwarming story of growth and love. There’s a good reminder that oftentimes we only see what people want us to see, both on social media and in real life, and that finding the people you can truly be your most authentic self with is a gift and something to be cherished and celebrated.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/St, Martin’s Griffin for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Daisy’s life is in a downward spiral. She’s lost her job of 13 years, lost her boyfriend, and is in the midst of a long fight with her sister. Meeting two young girls in a supermarket sets off a series of events that take Daisy on a journey of self-discovery and reevaluating what she thought she wanted from life; a journey that also includes getting to know their handsome dad along the way.
Things started off very chaotic with the pacing and storytelling for me here. There were a lot of flashbacks woven in with Daisy’s present struggles to explain how she got the point that she was at, and they threw me off a bit at times. By the end, they had filtered out and in a way, I ultimately felt like the writing reflected Daisy’s character as she settled more into herself. I loved the growth she experienced. I was proud of her opening up to change, compromise, and rethinking things she thought she was certain of, but she also stayed true to the core perspectives that were important to her.
The book was what I would classify as “romance-lite” as Daisy and Archie spend most of their time together building a friendship before they allow their feelings to possibly venture from the friend zone. That said, the moments between them and their moments with Archie’s daughters, Bailey and Cara, were some of my favorite parts of the book. I loved the girls. They were so different but their personalities felt vibrant in different was. They weren’t just a plot point but fully formed characters who were just as important to Daisy’s story - maybe even more than - Archie’s role.
After a bit of a slow start, this really grew into a heartwarming story of growth and love. There’s a good reminder that oftentimes we only see what people want us to see, both on social media and in real life, and that finding the people you can truly be your most authentic self with is a gift and something to be cherished and celebrated.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/St, Martin’s Griffin for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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