Maybe Probably: Perfectly Imperfect Series

Perfectly Imperfect #1

by A.L. Russell

Lacey's life takes a wild nosedive after living in Brisbane for five years. The luxury of living the champagne lifestyle ends in a burst bubble—job, lifestyle, and friendships shattered by misplaced trust. Seeking refuge and wisdom, she turns to her lifelong best friends, Jase and Zak.

But homecoming isn't the peaceful retreat Lacey had envisioned. Zak, the lovable idiot he is, with a devilishly flirtatious streak, intensifies his advances toward Lacey. Is he just being Zak, or is there more simmering beneath those cheeky grins, and lingering looks?

When tragedy strikes, rocking their world to its core, they confront life-altering questions. Zak's determined to make her his, while she's on a quest for self-discovery, resisting the allure of love.

"Maybe Probably" whisks you through an emotional rollercoaster of trust, self-exploration, and a slow-burn romance so captivating, you'll devour the pages at breakneck speed.

Can best friends ever remain just that?
Or is their connection too magnetic to ignore?
Is Zak her soulmate or just a place holder?

529 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 13, 2023

Reviews

[Aussieindiereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will play with your emotions and break your heart halfway through when you least expect it.

I loved the relationship between the 3 MCs. Their banter, flirting, and arguments remind you of those close male friends you grew up with, but to full in love with your best friend, that's a story to tell.

This is such a slow burn of a book, but when it is hot! IT'S HOT! And did I mention the sexual tension!? Fan me down!

The feelings that A.L. Russell puts you through in this story is, breathtaking, I haven't cried so much in a book for so long, and I think I was crying for at least 3 chapters, then I had to jump into the Authors DM to ask why. Why she had to do this to us and our hearts.

[TJS.bookworld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received the ARC for this book.

I absolutely adored this book. The characters were so easy to love and relatable too!

The story had me laughing, wondering when Lacey would wake up. I was in tears at one point nearly wanting to yell at the Author for breaking my heart.

And the little cliffhanger wanted me to know more! Like right now!

I can’t wait to get my hands of this book when it hits the shelves!

[Aj Golik · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC and my draw in was the slow burn set in Australia.
I prefer Fantasy with only small amount of Romance so I did not expect to fall in love with Lacey and Zak the way I did. From the second I started reading, I struggled to put my Kindle down to eat, sleep or anything else!
Reading from both Lacey and Zak’s perspectives definitely kept me interested albeit a little frustrated with both of them. Reading through their grief, uncertainty and love for each other made my poor little heart ache in all the best ways.
Add the playlist A L Russell has as a companion to this book and holy hell it’s a whole new level of amazing! Listening to THAT Taylor Swift song when Lacey goes wild, understanding the messages Zak and Lacey both send through various songs and knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that these two idiots feel the exact same way but neither of them is wise enough to be the first to say it!
I do not have enough words to describe my absolute adoration for the way this book made me feel and after only 5 days, I’m going reread it so I can experience Lacey and Zak’s love story all over again!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book!! It’s heartwarming and so well written! It even made me cry which never happens! 100% recommend adding this to your TBR

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

"📚 Book Review: Maybe Probably

by A. L. Russell 📚

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉Get ready for a whirlwind of emotions with "Maybe Probably," the latest gem by A. L. Russell! 🌟 This book takes you on a journey through the highs and lows of life, friendship, and love, leaving you breathless and craving more. 🎢

💖 Plot & Characters: Lacey, our fearless protagonist, returns to her hometown after a betrayal shakes her champagne lifestyle in Brisbane. With childhood friends Jase and the lovable Zak by her side, the trio navigates life's challenges. The author brilliantly weaves a story of genuine friendship, teasing us with moments we long for and surprises that keep us on the edge.

😄 Character Dynamics: Zak, the sweet guy next door with irresistible charm, and Jase, full of warmth and empathy, create a dynamic trio with Lacey. Their banter is a delightful mix of humor and sincerity, making you wish for a friendship as beautiful as theirs.

💔 Twists and Turns: Russell skillfully blends humor and heart-wrenching moments, keeping you glued to the pages. Just when you think you know what's coming, a plot twist will leave you reaching for the tissues. The emotional rollercoaster is both gripping and unforgettable.

🌈 Themes: The book delves into self-discovery, loyalty, and the complexities of relationships. It skillfully raises difficult topics while maintaining a perfect balance with humor, making it a thought-provoking yet enjoyable read.

👏 Overall Impression: "Maybe Probably" is a fantastic blend of happiness, sadness, excitement, and shock. The characters are relatable, and their journey is a perfect mix of heartwarming and heartbreaking moments. The Aussie setting adds a unique charm to the story.

🤯 Final Verdict: A must-read for lovers of romance, friends-to-lovers, slow burn, and emotional rollercoasters. Be prepared for a book that will leave you hanging, craving more of A. L. Russell's brilliant storytelling. 🔥📖

#BookReview #MaybeProbably #ALRussell #RomanceNovel #MustRead #BookishLove #EmotionalJourney #BookRecommendation"

[mila_readss · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,75⭐

Firstly thank you @a.l_russell for giving me the opportunity of reading your debut novel long before its release date. I have enjoyed every second of it and can't wait for your future novels. Now onto the review.

Lacey is an independent woman, she does not expect help from others, she only counts on herself. However, when a serious problem arises that she cannot deal with alone, she seeks help from her closest friends, Zak and Jase. The three of them decide to bring Lacey back to her hometown where she will be able to count on more support than before.

Zak is this sweet guy next door and the one you can always depend on. He has a certain magnetism and allure that sets him apart. Those blue eyes of his seem to peer right into your soul. Jase is full of warmth and empathy. He is always happy and his presence brings such warmth to those around him. People instantly feel at ease in his company.

Her friendship with Zak and Jase may seem unusual, but their friendship is truly sincere and true. Their banter is great, I loved reading about how Lacey gets shy and embarrassed when one of them says something inappropriate or embarrasses her on purpose. It's great to read about how the other always helps the other, no matter how difficult the situation is. I really wish everyone to have a friendship like the one they have, because it is simply beautiful.

The author loves to tease us throughout this book, there were parts where I was getting overly excited at a part that was long awaited but of course something disrupts and the moment is over.

This book was so gripping I couldn't put it down, it's very quick and easy to read. The book has a lot of humor, but at the same time it raises difficult topics that are worth raising. While reading, I was shocked by some scenes because I totally didn't expect them, my heart broke in half and at some point I couldn't understand why the author did this to us. Overall really enjoyed my time with this book and can't wait for a second one. Really recommend.

[Mrs Moa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have just finished reading Maybe Probaby by @A.L. Russell | Indie Author, her debut novel.

A slow burn, friends to lovers romance with a heartbreaking twist.

Our FMC Lacey, returns to her hometown after loosing her business due to a betrayal. She leans on her childhood best friends Jase and Zak. Zak has harboured a crush on Lacey for years, but the fear of loosing their friendship has held him back.

When Lacey moves home, Zak has a girlfriend. Shade is thrown on his girlfriend for her questionable behaviour which irked me a little as I found Zak and Lacey’s friendship quite intimate despite his current relationship status.

As they slowly explore their feelings for one another, a heartbreaking tragedy strikes that tests them both.

Before Lacey can open her heart she needs to discover her own self worth and respect for herself.

A fabulous emotional roller coaster of a romance story that I would recommend to those who enjoy:

🧡romance
🧡friends to lovers
🧡curvy girl
🧡tragedy
🧡slow burn
🧡Aussie setting
🧡emotional
🧡self discovery
🧡heartwarming
🧡heartbreaking

A bonus Spotify list at the beginning of the book is a pleasant addition 🫶

[Sarah Borley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book summed up is happy, sad, exciting, shocking, and overall amazing.it starts off happy, and from the beginning, the characters melted my heart. There are highs and lows, which is great as I was kept on the edge of my seat, then BAM!!! Amy Russell throws in a complete shocker that literally has me grabbing the tissues to the point that I think my Kindle is going to get wet! I wanted to stop there, but I carried on, and slowly, my heart recovered. The fmc is great, but she does some things that made me want to shake her and make her see sense! Finally, as I was nearing the end, I could see a hea was in sight, and I was smiling, but let me tell you, Amy Russel decided to throw a curve ball in there and left me hanging !! I'm now at a loss and need to know more

Overall, it's a fantastic book, and I can't wait for more of her books !

[K.J. Burrage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maybe probably is a small-town romance (set in Australia) that perfectly encapsulates the unique community and culture of a small town here in Aus. It is perfect for readers who like

- small town
- friends to lovers
- banter
- labrador MMC and independent FMC
- duel POV
- spice

The main characters and supporting cast are all wonderfully written, likable yet relatable with their flaws. The dialogue is *chef's kiss*.

ARGH!

This book tore my heart out ... had me sobbing ... crying ... and ....

It deals with grief, raw and untamable. AL Russell did well with portraying the processes of grief, not just sweep it under the carpet. It was powerfully written.

Please note: due to my own personal set of circumstances, I did have to put the book down for a week before finishing. Check trigger warnings. Main one for this is the grief and circumstances in which it happened.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC READ

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book.

It is a friends to Lovers, slow burn, dual POV.

Three best friends come together to help Lacey, when her life falls apart. While discovering her feelings for her Best Friend and getting her life back together, tragedy strikes and Lacey again needs to recover. Add in her feelings for, and fear of losing her Best Friend, Lacey tries to ignore how she feels for him. Leading up to some frustrating moments between the MFC and MMC.

This is a very emotional book.

I highly recommend the book. It will leave you with some heartfelt moments.

[Gini Rex · Rating 5 out of 5]

This bloody book! Where do I even start! I am obsessed.
I was captured from chapter one, this story is binge worthy 100%

I was laughing out loud, giggling, oh and then bloody crying!
The banter is absolutely top notch!

Also I wanted to absolutely slap some sense into both Lacey and Zak, all the frustration.

I’m Australian and appreciated so much that this series is set in Aus, plus all the typical Aussie talk I absolutely loved.

I had no idea going in that the FMC is a curvy girl, and I love that so much! I felt connected to Lacey’s story, struggles and all.

Do yourself a favour and read this book, you will not regret it one bit!

[Yahhh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspired by my book bestie, I've been on an Australian indie author binge and came across this series.

It's a friend to lovers with some tragedy and healing. Friends to lovers are often top tier, so I was looking forward to the read.

I liked the idea of the story, and while the tragedy is rip your heart out kind of stuff, I found this one a little frustrating.

Big plot holes and unlikeable characters meant I was happy to finish. I was also really confused by their ages. This book read as though they were 18 not late twenties and there were quite a few editing errors which could be resolved.

Will keep the rest of the series on my tbr though.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, i...I can't. I can't even put into words.
I just finished reading Maybe Probably by @a.l_russell and my lord what a Rollercoaster of emotions that was.
It's deserves a damn 10/5. My God.

Now, I'm going to say this and yall are going think I'm a crazy cry baby (which may or may not be true) but, I cried about 5 times. Especially towards the end when, some really sad things happened. And I'm Low-key Mad at you Ms.Mrs. Russel. My heart can't take it. Jeez.

Anyway, I loved it and yall should give it a read when it comes out on the 13th of October.
*bring some tissue.*

[Tracy Spence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg love this book definitely 6 stars if not more. 4 spice rating for me. Absolutely insanely in love with this book right now. I read this on kindle so will definitely be getting a physical copy for my shelf definitely deserves to be there. Can’t wait for the next book to come out I need it like now!!! This book made me sad, had me crying at parts, was also pissed off at times but it also made me really happy and I feel in love with this book by the end of it. Even tho the ending is really unfair. Would definitely recommend this book to my friends.

[Neen T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many will love this book!

Unfortunately it wasn't for me.

I found our FMC so annoying! More like a teenager than supposedly mid 20's. Or perhaps that's how they act these days and I'm too old...? 🤣

Anyway, miscommunication trope is my least favourite! 500+ pages of it...you've been warned!

Not a fan of second (or third, fourth) act break-ups either. How many circles can we go in? 🤦‍♀️

But, if you can look past that and like some friends to lover's, spice, heartbreak, healing and all the inner emotional battles, then you'll probably enjoy this book!

[C R Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy from the author.

When Lacey's life is turned upside down, she must return to the small town she grew up in. Her two best mates, Zak and Jase, are there to help her pick up the pieces which add humor and feelings so this modern day Threes Company.

I highly recommend this for anyone wanting a slow burn, that burns the whole way through. I thoroughly enjoyed this debut work by A. L. Russell.

[K. L. Cacopardo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book!

This book is by far the longest romance I’ve ever read and the slowest burn romance. I gave it four stars because well, the author knows which part made me cry. The slow burn kept you reading because you just couldn’t wait to get to the more intimate parts of the book. Every chapter, I was like ugh, hurry up Zak and Lacey. But that’s what made you go to the next chapter and the next until you get to the moment you’re waiting for.

[Kaitlin Jackisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Book. Wrecked. Me. In all the best ways. It was hilarious, witty, sexy, loving, and soul crushing. The love between Zak and Lacey was so real and passionate that it just gives me chills thinking about it. I DEVOURED this book in half a day. I recommend this book if you're looking for a book to consume your everything.

[Natalie Oldham · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a stunning debut!

I flew through this in a day and a half.

I really felt like I was reading about my own friends and lives in my small town, and it had me feeling all the emotions on both ends of the spectrum, plus everything in between.

I am still reeling from THAT reveal at the ending, I need book 2 now!

[Ella Graff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy spicy tamales

This book had me angry, sad, happy and maybe a couple other feelings that I will keep to myself. The spice is spicing and the story line is flowing. I loved and hated some of the characters, which is a good thing, I promise. I wanted to hang out with them, but I couldn’t keep up with this group. The cliff hanger I couldn’t have expected until it was there.

[Mark Aeschlimann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite the emotional ride. I had to put the book down for a while half way through to reset my brain. Those who have read it know what I’m talking about. The MCs were regularly infuriating and gut punches were dotted throughout. The spice level is above my personal taste but that’s a me thing. Brilliantly written book and recommend to anyone who loves a roller coaster romance.

[alisha jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. It had me laughing, crying and wanting to scream and possibly slap the two main mc's until they can see where they are going wrong.

I absolutely adored the friendship trio Zak, Lacey & Jase had. It was a truly special friendship and you could feel the connection they all had.

Lacey is a curvy FMC that had everything going for her until it wasn't. She is independent, fiery and is discovering himself. Zak is flirty, playful and fun and is madly in love with his best friend. But hot damn the connection between these two had the banter was the next level. Talk about slow burn to the max.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC book.
I loved the storyline, and it had some really great plot twists. It was quite lengthy but made up for that with some great spicy scenes. I really liked Zak, I love a guy who is obsessed with his girl.

[Laney Lockett · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute story of Lacey and Zak. I do think this book could have used another round of edits - some details didn’t match up and other parts were slower than necessary. But if you can see past this, it’s a good story and I found myself cheering for them.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Perfectly Imperfect series, and is the ultimate will the or won't they. We follow the story of three lifelong friends and some heavy hitting situations. Have a box of tissues handy. This tale moved me to tears in places. That's not an easy feat!

[Tiff Hills · Rating 5 out of 5]

The slow burn was real in this book. But i loved absolutely everything about Lace and Zac. They just belonged. It also makes you feel so many emotions, I was a blubbering mess, but it also put your heart back together again.

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was an amazing read, I loved it. The way it is written is *chefs kisses*, it has you feeling everything through the two mc’s. Wasn’t hard to connect with them at all, had me very emotional at times but 100% worth the read.

[Badgerhoneyx · Rating 5 out of 5]

So cute and funny! This book is delightful. Definitely (not probably) read it!

[Kate Beattie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The slowest of slow burns in this read, the back and forth kept me turning pages.
Beautifully written, with a whole lot of sass!

[Kathy Gioxaris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this story! Love the friendship the characters have with each other. Adore Zak and Lacey (the tension between them is ughhhh!)
Very heartwarming, funny, spicy, and so well written!