What do you think?
Rate this book
It's Not That Simple
BellamyI'm not sure what I expected from the postcard town of Avernus. The place where my Mom grew up but hasn't returned to in two decades. Everything here is old and picturesque. Without hockey to take up my time anymore, I knew I'd need to figure something else out. It didn't take me long to see her. With her copper hair carefully tied away from her face, she was surrounded by the most curious combination of people. But I also stumbled upon them that first day. The worst kind of trouble, but I didn't want to admit it until it was too late. I got myself into this mess, and it's on me to figure that out. But I'm also far too selfish to not know her.AceIt's not often that we get new people in our sleepy little town. I could feel him watching me at lunch and in the class that we shared. At first, I felt too busy with other things to investigate his motive. But my curiosity won out. He became a lifeline out of the mundane monotony. A whole adventure, just knowing him. Everything with him felt easy. He was my knight in shining armour. Until I realized just how deep into the dragon's den he had gotten swept. Because, of course, it was too good. Maybe, he can walk away from the warmth he's found in the proverbial blaze. But I'm not sure I'm strong enough to stay away from him in the meantime. I can only hope that whatever this is between us doesn't go up in smoke.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2023
1 person is currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
P. Roper
10 books38 followersP. Roper is a word junkie & caffeine enthusiast, born and raised in Western Canada. When she’s not writing (or reading) you’ll usually find her with her husband, chasing their hurricane of a daughter. Or she may be grabbing a coffee with her best friend. She loves NA Romance but is convinced that there is no way she could actually choose a favourite trope.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 17, 2023
It’s Not That Simple by P. Roper is the second book in the Avernus Greys series and it follows Bellamy and Ace. Bellamy is new to town and looking for something to occupy his time since he won’t be playing hockey anymore. When he meets Ace (Candace) his first day, things just seem to fall into place. But can their budding romance hold up when conflicts start to arise?
I have kind of read this book twice. Once as a beta read and once as an arc and I have loved it so much both times. I adore this small town world and these characters. Bellamy may be one of my favorite characters this author has written. He reminds me so much of someone I used to know in real life and I just want the best for him. Ace is also painfully relatable to me. She is slightly awkward and very focused so when Bellamy enters her life, she is really thrown for a loop.
One of my favorite things about this book is how well the main characters just mesh together. It feels like such an organic relationship and the way they communicate with each other is just *chef’s kiss.* I always love when characters start off really talking to each other through text because it feels like that’s how a lot of relationships start nowadays so seeing their early text banter is so cute.
This book does have some heavier themes especially towards the end that I really appreciated. With the characters being older teens, I found it very realistic that they would have to deal with some rough stuff.
I love all the side characters. I even love the ones that are more “bad guys” because they force our main characters to grow. Ace’s family dynamic reminds me a lot of growing up with siblings and it’s such a good time. I also adore Cody as a character. He is outside of the main family but he still feels like family.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series! I can’t wait to see where it goes! While these books are technically standalones and can be read in any order, it’s best to read all of them in order for the most emotional impact.
I have kind of read this book twice. Once as a beta read and once as an arc and I have loved it so much both times. I adore this small town world and these characters. Bellamy may be one of my favorite characters this author has written. He reminds me so much of someone I used to know in real life and I just want the best for him. Ace is also painfully relatable to me. She is slightly awkward and very focused so when Bellamy enters her life, she is really thrown for a loop.
One of my favorite things about this book is how well the main characters just mesh together. It feels like such an organic relationship and the way they communicate with each other is just *chef’s kiss.* I always love when characters start off really talking to each other through text because it feels like that’s how a lot of relationships start nowadays so seeing their early text banter is so cute.
This book does have some heavier themes especially towards the end that I really appreciated. With the characters being older teens, I found it very realistic that they would have to deal with some rough stuff.
I love all the side characters. I even love the ones that are more “bad guys” because they force our main characters to grow. Ace’s family dynamic reminds me a lot of growing up with siblings and it’s such a good time. I also adore Cody as a character. He is outside of the main family but he still feels like family.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series! I can’t wait to see where it goes! While these books are technically standalones and can be read in any order, it’s best to read all of them in order for the most emotional impact.
December 1, 2023
I absolutely fell head over heels for Ace and Bellamy. The way they just casually fell for each other is heart-warming. The way he adored and protected her from the very beginning is swoon worthy. This story is beautiful with a little bit of drama when Bell inadvertently gets caught up with the wrong crowd. He is new to town and has no friends at first, so this group of guys that do some shady stuff, take him under their wing when they realize they can use him to their benefit.
“I want you to choose me, on purpose, unflinchingly.”
As Ace and Bellamy start spending more time together, he gets her to start opening up and come out of her shell a bit. She becomes more confident and comfortable in her own skin. As they grow closer and become serious, the needs of his “friends” start to cause problems for their relationship. Bellamy wants to get away from them, but at what cost? The way their story unfolds is just everything!!
“What is life, if not a collection of memorable moments?”
It’s Not That Simple is book 2 in the Avernus Greys series. Next up is Ace’s sister’s story!! I’ve been looking forward to Jo and Grant’s story since I read the prequel, It’s Just For Now, what feels like ages ago!! I highly recommend The Avernus series, if you haven’t already started it.
Happy Reading!!
“I want you to choose me, on purpose, unflinchingly.”
As Ace and Bellamy start spending more time together, he gets her to start opening up and come out of her shell a bit. She becomes more confident and comfortable in her own skin. As they grow closer and become serious, the needs of his “friends” start to cause problems for their relationship. Bellamy wants to get away from them, but at what cost? The way their story unfolds is just everything!!
“What is life, if not a collection of memorable moments?”
It’s Not That Simple is book 2 in the Avernus Greys series. Next up is Ace’s sister’s story!! I’ve been looking forward to Jo and Grant’s story since I read the prequel, It’s Just For Now, what feels like ages ago!! I highly recommend The Avernus series, if you haven’t already started it.
Happy Reading!!
November 19, 2023
Simply beautifully written!
It’s Not That Simple is book 2 in the Avernus series and I’m in love with this series.
Avernus is a small town where everyone knows everyone so when Bellamy moves into town he quickly finds himself needing something to do. He’s a hockey player with nothing to do. Then he lays eyes on Cadence “Ace” Grey and suddenly their story starts
Ace is one of the Grey girls. She’s a busy homebody complete opposite of her twin. If you have read book 1 then you have an idea of how strong the dynamic is with the Grey Family.
This story even though it was beautiful it had its moments of seriousness. Bellamy for one finds himself in a tough spot one he’s not sure how to get himself out of.
It’s Not That Simple is cute. It reminds me of a Lifetime movie with an amazing HEA.
P. Roper really didn’t write this one beautifully. She took two opposite characters and made them fit. There really wasn’t anyone more perfect for each other then these two are
I really have fallen in love with this series and characters. I can’t wait Jo’s story!
It’s Not That Simple is book 2 in the Avernus series and I’m in love with this series.
Avernus is a small town where everyone knows everyone so when Bellamy moves into town he quickly finds himself needing something to do. He’s a hockey player with nothing to do. Then he lays eyes on Cadence “Ace” Grey and suddenly their story starts
Ace is one of the Grey girls. She’s a busy homebody complete opposite of her twin. If you have read book 1 then you have an idea of how strong the dynamic is with the Grey Family.
This story even though it was beautiful it had its moments of seriousness. Bellamy for one finds himself in a tough spot one he’s not sure how to get himself out of.
It’s Not That Simple is cute. It reminds me of a Lifetime movie with an amazing HEA.
P. Roper really didn’t write this one beautifully. She took two opposite characters and made them fit. There really wasn’t anyone more perfect for each other then these two are
I really have fallen in love with this series and characters. I can’t wait Jo’s story!
December 2, 2023
Sometimes, terrible decisions land us in scary places. We surround ourselves with people who seem ok at first and then we realize our mistakes a little too late. Others may judge us, because it’s so obvious to them. But it's really not that simple. Life never is.
Bellamy is a new kid in town and he falls into the wrong crowd. Ace is the class president, smart, and quiet. Their communication becomes vital for both of them - a means of survival and light from day to day. Ace is shy, but she gets her point across when needed. I love that she stood up for herself! Their love is tenuous, like a spiderweb, wrapped intricately, dangling in the wind – but oh is it breathtaking. I really felt for Bellamy, but I was also getting a bit frustrated at him too… I absolutely love how Ace’s family/found family stood up for her. This is quite a beautiful story throughout. I really enjoyed it.
This is book 2 of Avernus Greys and can be read as a standalone.
Fulfills the Alabama prompt for the 50 states plus DC challenge.
Bellamy is a new kid in town and he falls into the wrong crowd. Ace is the class president, smart, and quiet. Their communication becomes vital for both of them - a means of survival and light from day to day. Ace is shy, but she gets her point across when needed. I love that she stood up for herself! Their love is tenuous, like a spiderweb, wrapped intricately, dangling in the wind – but oh is it breathtaking. I really felt for Bellamy, but I was also getting a bit frustrated at him too… I absolutely love how Ace’s family/found family stood up for her. This is quite a beautiful story throughout. I really enjoyed it.
This is book 2 of Avernus Greys and can be read as a standalone.
Fulfills the Alabama prompt for the 50 states plus DC challenge.
November 24, 2023
I love being back in Avernus and with the Grey girls. It's Not That Simple is book two in the Avernus Greys series and it gives us Ace's, Cadence's, story and the new boy in town, Bellamy. We know that the Grey girls are not your average girls and Ace is a bookworm and one that usually does not push the boundaries but when the new guy in town seems to take an interest in her her thinking changes. While Bellamy is trying to find himself, he ends up with the wrong crowd and that has effects on his relationship with Ace. Can they get past what is happening? When Ace seems to be forgotten, how will Bellamy show her that she is the most important person in his life, next to his mother?
Ms. Roper gives us a story that will pull on your heartstrings, have you unable to put it down and cheering for Ace and Bellamy. There were times when I wanted to jump into the book and give Bellamy a shake and sit Ace down and tell her that she deserved so much more.
Ms. Roper gives us a story that will pull on your heartstrings, have you unable to put it down and cheering for Ace and Bellamy. There were times when I wanted to jump into the book and give Bellamy a shake and sit Ace down and tell her that she deserved so much more.
November 26, 2023
Out now !!
It’s Not That Simple is book 2 in the Avernus series by @author.proper !
We quickly fell for the grey girls in book one & this book just sucked us in deeper! There is just something so special about a strong girl bond 🖤 this story follows Cadence “Ace” & Bellamy ! These two are going to make you feel 🖤🖤 they fall hard and fast ! Bellamy brings ace out of her shell and she shows him he is worth more than the trouble he has found himself in 🖤🖤 you are going to get sweet chemistry, opposites attract, protectiveness, life lessons together ,young love challenges & obstacles, healing & growth! We loved the way these two were there for each other without questioning it! There was no hesitation ! Their hearts knew they just fit 🖤🖤 it was also great to see what everyone else is up too ! We can’t wait for Jo !
It’s Not That Simple is book 2 in the Avernus series by @author.proper !
We quickly fell for the grey girls in book one & this book just sucked us in deeper! There is just something so special about a strong girl bond 🖤 this story follows Cadence “Ace” & Bellamy ! These two are going to make you feel 🖤🖤 they fall hard and fast ! Bellamy brings ace out of her shell and she shows him he is worth more than the trouble he has found himself in 🖤🖤 you are going to get sweet chemistry, opposites attract, protectiveness, life lessons together ,young love challenges & obstacles, healing & growth! We loved the way these two were there for each other without questioning it! There was no hesitation ! Their hearts knew they just fit 🖤🖤 it was also great to see what everyone else is up too ! We can’t wait for Jo !
November 26, 2023
It’s not that simple, is a fast paced, high school, romance about Cadence (Ace) and Bellamy. I’m not one to normally read high school romances but this one was written to where the high school aspect wasn’t the focus.
Bellamy and his mom move to small town, Avernus, when his grandmother refuses to sell her house and move with them.
Ace is a legacy, a founding family in the small town. She’s going into her senior year with her twin and cousin.
Ace and Bellamy have come together in a way that normally wouldn’t work. She’s a homebody, student council president, and he’s a former jockey player who’s new in town. P. Roper made them fit together perfectly.
I loved that their story had bits of seriousness in it along with reading Ace and Bellamy falling for each other.
I cannot wait to see how they appear in Jo’s story!
Bellamy and his mom move to small town, Avernus, when his grandmother refuses to sell her house and move with them.
Ace is a legacy, a founding family in the small town. She’s going into her senior year with her twin and cousin.
Ace and Bellamy have come together in a way that normally wouldn’t work. She’s a homebody, student council president, and he’s a former jockey player who’s new in town. P. Roper made them fit together perfectly.
I loved that their story had bits of seriousness in it along with reading Ace and Bellamy falling for each other.
I cannot wait to see how they appear in Jo’s story!
December 2, 2023
Bellamy is the new kid in town. He’s trying to find his place. Ace is the over achieving Grey twin. Despite the friends that Bellamy begins making they hit it off. Will their choices tear them apart or bring them together.
I loved Ace in Its All Fun and Games (book 1). Having more development and story makes me love her more. She’s strong and feisty but hides behind the perfect veneer she’s made. She allows herself freedom with Bellamy. She starts to have more fun. Despite the conflicts they run into she grows and helps him see what matters.
Bellamy never pushes her more than she needs. He pulls her outside her bubble but gives her a safe place still. His connections with the other Grey girls and their circle makes for a well rounded story.
This one takes place simultaneously as book one. You can read it alone though. It’s a heartwarming story of love and choices.
I loved Ace in Its All Fun and Games (book 1). Having more development and story makes me love her more. She’s strong and feisty but hides behind the perfect veneer she’s made. She allows herself freedom with Bellamy. She starts to have more fun. Despite the conflicts they run into she grows and helps him see what matters.
Bellamy never pushes her more than she needs. He pulls her outside her bubble but gives her a safe place still. His connections with the other Grey girls and their circle makes for a well rounded story.
This one takes place simultaneously as book one. You can read it alone though. It’s a heartwarming story of love and choices.
November 21, 2023
IT's Not That Simple is the second story of the Avernus Grey Girls. This time we join Ace and Bellamy.
Ace is a homebody, who would rather spend her evenings lost in a book then going out with her family and friends. That is until she meets Bellamy.
Bellamy a former hockey player, moves into town right before senior year, and quickly falls into the wrong crowd.
These two characters are phenomenal, two characters that you normally would think would not fit together mesh perfectly. They are both on different paths, and overcome anything that is thrown at them.
It was another page turner i could not put d0wn. I cannot wait to read Jo's story
Ace is a homebody, who would rather spend her evenings lost in a book then going out with her family and friends. That is until she meets Bellamy.
Bellamy a former hockey player, moves into town right before senior year, and quickly falls into the wrong crowd.
These two characters are phenomenal, two characters that you normally would think would not fit together mesh perfectly. They are both on different paths, and overcome anything that is thrown at them.
It was another page turner i could not put d0wn. I cannot wait to read Jo's story
February 6, 2024
We finally figure out who Ace was sneaking around with and why...The quiet of the Grey's found herself a bad boy...or more so a good boy who fell in with the wrong crowd.
I thought the pressure to fit in and falling into "easier" friendships was so relevant to my own high school experience. It's also so easy keep your head down and not rock the boat, especially when trying to keep those friendships.
I'm so curious what's going to happen with Jo!
I thought the pressure to fit in and falling into "easier" friendships was so relevant to my own high school experience. It's also so easy keep your head down and not rock the boat, especially when trying to keep those friendships.
I'm so curious what's going to happen with Jo!
December 5, 2023
I enjoyed this book but I just had a little trouble getting into the story. Once I got into it I was hooked and had to see what happened next. I enjoyed that the characters did not just have clear sailing and no obstacles to overcome. When they have struggles it makes the story seem more real life. I can't wait to read more by this author in the future.
November 21, 2023
It’s Not That Simple is book two in the Avernus series and it is so beautifully written. Bellamy and Cadence “Ace” are the true epitome of opposites attract. Bellamy and Ace have this wonderful connection and P. Roper did a great job of capturing how these two are perfect for each other.
November 24, 2023
If you like high school romance, give this a shot! I DNF’d, because I just can’t do high school anymore.
That being said, P. Roper is a very talented writer, and I hope to see her move into older adult romance!!
That being said, P. Roper is a very talented writer, and I hope to see her move into older adult romance!!
November 27, 2023
The title of this book tells you everything you need to know about Bellamy and his new companions. The characters in this book definitely acted and thought like teenagers, which is what they were. I couldn't believe what had to happen for Bellamy to get out of his new friendship, that was a wild part. I hope creepy kasper gets what's coming to him in the next book, maybe nothing as drastic as Bellamy's friends but maybe so. Ace definitely acted like a young girl in love for the first time and I could see why she said and did the things she did. I read this pretty quickly, over a few hours. It was a fast moving book with a good amount of spice and not too much emotion.
November 29, 2023
Ace and Bellamy
Ace and Bellamy, these two had a story that I was just cheering for them to make it through! When we started getting to the end I was getting nervous, I felt like there was still so much ground to cover but it really got wrapped up quickly and efficiently without needing a book 2. I love the Grey girls and I am loving seeing the guys they get with.
Ace and Bellamy, these two had a story that I was just cheering for them to make it through! When we started getting to the end I was getting nervous, I felt like there was still so much ground to cover but it really got wrapped up quickly and efficiently without needing a book 2. I love the Grey girls and I am loving seeing the guys they get with.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews