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Sounds Like a Plan #1
Sounds Like a Plan
Reluctantly joining forces after discovering they’ve both been hired on the same missing person case, two rival Black private investigators find their mutual dislike evolve into an undeniable attraction in this rollicking, romantic thrill ride told in alternate perspectives from award-winning authors Dwayne Alexander Smith and Pamela Samuels Young.
Jackson Jones and Mackenzie Cunningham have a lot in common. They are both hard-working private investigators with their own firms in Los Angeles. They are both Black, happily single, and very good at their jobs. But when they’re together, they are like oil and water.
When they find themselves working the same missing persons case, the idea of collaborating seems about as likely as a blizzard in Beverly Hills. But once it’s clear that they have been set up to take the fall for a murder, they have no choice but to work together.
Bickering their way from Century City to Malibu and beyond, it becomes increasingly hard for them to deny the sparks flying between them. But with a small army of killers in hot pursuit, there’s no time to sort through their complicated feelings in this witty, fast-paced, and swoon-worthy mystery.
Jackson Jones and Mackenzie Cunningham have a lot in common. They are both hard-working private investigators with their own firms in Los Angeles. They are both Black, happily single, and very good at their jobs. But when they’re together, they are like oil and water.
When they find themselves working the same missing persons case, the idea of collaborating seems about as likely as a blizzard in Beverly Hills. But once it’s clear that they have been set up to take the fall for a murder, they have no choice but to work together.
Bickering their way from Century City to Malibu and beyond, it becomes increasingly hard for them to deny the sparks flying between them. But with a small army of killers in hot pursuit, there’s no time to sort through their complicated feelings in this witty, fast-paced, and swoon-worthy mystery.
307 pages, Paperback
Published July 9, 2024
66 people are currently reading
7712 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Samuels Young
28 books456 followersAward-winning author and attorney Pamela Samuels Young writes mysteries that matter. Dubbed “John Grisham with a sister’s twist” by one reviewer, Pamela’s fast-paced novels tackle important social issues.
Her most recent legal thriller, Failure to Protect, takes on the bullying epidemic and its devastating aftermath. Pamela won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction for her thriller Anybody’s Daughter, which provides a realistic look inside the world of child sex trafficking. Her courtroom drama Abuse of Discretion centers around a troubling teen sexting case. #Anybody’s Daughter and #Abuse of Discretion are young adult editions of the two books. A young adult version of Failure to Protect is forthcoming.
Pamela also writes erotically sassy romantic suspense under the pen name Sassy Sinclair. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela writes about her own empowering natural hair journey in Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.
Prior to retiring from the practice of law to write full time, Pamela worked as Managing Counsel for Toyota specializing in labor and employment law. A former journalist, she spent several years as a television news writer and associate producer in Detroit and Los Angeles. Pamela received her bachelor’s degree from USC and also earned graduate degrees from Northwestern University and UC Berkeley School of Law. The Compton native is a frequent speaker on the topics of sex trafficking, bullying, online safety, fiction writing, self-empowerment, and pursuing your passion.
Pamela loves connecting with her fans! To invite her to a speaking engage or a book club meeting via Skype, Facebook Live, FaceTime, Zoom, speakerphone or in person, email her at authorpamelasamuelsyoung@gmail.com. To read excerpts of Pamela’s books, visit her websites at www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com and www.sassysinclair.com .
Her most recent legal thriller, Failure to Protect, takes on the bullying epidemic and its devastating aftermath. Pamela won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction for her thriller Anybody’s Daughter, which provides a realistic look inside the world of child sex trafficking. Her courtroom drama Abuse of Discretion centers around a troubling teen sexting case. #Anybody’s Daughter and #Abuse of Discretion are young adult editions of the two books. A young adult version of Failure to Protect is forthcoming.
Pamela also writes erotically sassy romantic suspense under the pen name Sassy Sinclair. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela writes about her own empowering natural hair journey in Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.
Prior to retiring from the practice of law to write full time, Pamela worked as Managing Counsel for Toyota specializing in labor and employment law. A former journalist, she spent several years as a television news writer and associate producer in Detroit and Los Angeles. Pamela received her bachelor’s degree from USC and also earned graduate degrees from Northwestern University and UC Berkeley School of Law. The Compton native is a frequent speaker on the topics of sex trafficking, bullying, online safety, fiction writing, self-empowerment, and pursuing your passion.
Pamela loves connecting with her fans! To invite her to a speaking engage or a book club meeting via Skype, Facebook Live, FaceTime, Zoom, speakerphone or in person, email her at authorpamelasamuelsyoung@gmail.com. To read excerpts of Pamela’s books, visit her websites at www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com and www.sassysinclair.com .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 278 reviews
March 22, 2025
Alternate title: Me and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Time
The writing is decent at best (Mackenzie's POV) and miserable at worst (Jackson's POV). I was tired of the brand name mentions. Reading what felt like a ChatGPT handbook. Mackenzie deserved a better love interest because he was dragging her down. Now that doesn't take away from the fact that she actually went willingly along with some of his foolishness.
Every moment with TrashManJackson isn't fun at all. He's a whiney brat that doesn't respect women. He's supposedly a former cop but doesn't seem to understand logistics of crimes and the criminals themselves. Makes terrible jokes regarding women being assaulted and a person being stupid means they're on the spectrum?? Yikes. Oh, and I can't forget that on one occasion, Mackenzie got so wasted and couldn't even walk by herself or hold her head up, he kept thinking "I definitely should've hit that when I had the chance" afterwards.
He's a creep.
Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for providing a copy for an honest review.
July 12, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
This was a FUN read. Jackson Jones and MacKenzie Cunningham were hands down two of my favorite characters of the summer. And it isn't even over yet! Their chemistry as rival private investigators lit the pages on fire. Also, non-stop action made this book very hard to put down.
Not my typical read BUT I enjoyed every second of it.
Publication Date 09/07/24
Goodreads Review 11/07/24
This was a FUN read. Jackson Jones and MacKenzie Cunningham were hands down two of my favorite characters of the summer. And it isn't even over yet! Their chemistry as rival private investigators lit the pages on fire. Also, non-stop action made this book very hard to put down.
Not my typical read BUT I enjoyed every second of it.
Publication Date 09/07/24
Goodreads Review 11/07/24
October 31, 2025
0.5 / 5.0 stars
my feelings on this were constantly conflicting. i enjoyed some parts, and the mystery part of the story was fun to read and unravel with the characters.
but, there was some things i couldn’t get over. and ultimately made me not enjoy it in the end.
so, yeah this just wasn’t for me.
special thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
my feelings on this were constantly conflicting. i enjoyed some parts, and the mystery part of the story was fun to read and unravel with the characters.
but, there was some things i couldn’t get over. and ultimately made me not enjoy it in the end.
1. for three-long paragraphs, jackson, the male main character, went on an internal monologue about how great ChatGPT is while signing up for it? like it really felt like i was reading a sponsorship.
2. there was some weird misogynistic undertones that really left me feeling gross. bleh. very blatant that it was written by a woman and a man.
3. there was a tasteless “joke” about someone being on the spectrum. i.e. basically the whole shtick of the joke was that being on spectrum made someone “stupid”. like, no. ew. disgusting.
so, yeah this just wasn’t for me.
special thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2024
Jackson Jones, a driven private investigator, exudes respect by dressing in a suit and tie. However, as a Black man, he would be perceived differently if he showed up in a t-shirt and jeans. Mackenzie Cunningham, equally professional and successful, faces similar challenges due to her race.
Despite being hired by different individuals, Jackson and Mackenzie find themselves on the same side, searching for the same missing person. Their shared goal brings them together, despite their immediate differences.
While they are both equally successful, their competitive nature often leads to clashes. However, despite their attraction to each other, they remain focused on their mission. Unexpected twists and turns in the case reveal that joining forces might be mutually beneficial.
This intriguing start to a thrilling series leaves me eager to read the next book. I find it refreshing that they choose friendship over rivalry, especially in the face of danger.
Many thanks to Atria and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Despite being hired by different individuals, Jackson and Mackenzie find themselves on the same side, searching for the same missing person. Their shared goal brings them together, despite their immediate differences.
While they are both equally successful, their competitive nature often leads to clashes. However, despite their attraction to each other, they remain focused on their mission. Unexpected twists and turns in the case reveal that joining forces might be mutually beneficial.
This intriguing start to a thrilling series leaves me eager to read the next book. I find it refreshing that they choose friendship over rivalry, especially in the face of danger.
Many thanks to Atria and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 13, 2024
I received an ARC of this book for free via Goodreads giveaway. This has in no way impacted my review.
CW: gun violence, kidnapping, blood, (minor) ableism
Dual author books are a double edged sword. On one hand, it's almost automatic that the characters will have distinct voices, especially when alternating narration chapters like Sounds Like a Plan does. On the other, if the reader prefers one voice over another, it can sometimes become a slog, knowing a character you don't like is up next.
I was down with Mackenzie! Jackson.... not so much? I didn't like the way he thought about women, especially Mackenzie, in such sexual terms. He also made some comments about Black women in general that I personally found distasteful, but cannot necessarily speak on, not being Black.
(The unfortunate part about an ARC here is that I can't quote line and page, though I do have some specific ones that I found particularly offensive.)
There also was a "joke" about two characters being on the Autism spectrum, which is not the vibe.
Overall, fun, not very deep, and the set up to a series. I can see this appealing to a lot of people, even if I wasn't one of them.
CW: gun violence, kidnapping, blood, (minor) ableism
Dual author books are a double edged sword. On one hand, it's almost automatic that the characters will have distinct voices, especially when alternating narration chapters like Sounds Like a Plan does. On the other, if the reader prefers one voice over another, it can sometimes become a slog, knowing a character you don't like is up next.
I was down with Mackenzie! Jackson.... not so much? I didn't like the way he thought about women, especially Mackenzie, in such sexual terms. He also made some comments about Black women in general that I personally found distasteful, but cannot necessarily speak on, not being Black.
(The unfortunate part about an ARC here is that I can't quote line and page, though I do have some specific ones that I found particularly offensive.)
There also was a "joke" about two characters being on the Autism spectrum, which is not the vibe.
Overall, fun, not very deep, and the set up to a series. I can see this appealing to a lot of people, even if I wasn't one of them.
June 7, 2024
Picture any James Bond movie, add in some more flare and you have this novel.
This was a fun, unique story. I can totally see this being the next action/romance movie.
The characters were great, the plot was thick and needless to say it keeps you wondering the whole way through.
Did not see those twists in the story.
Thank you Goodreads and Atria Books for my giveaway ARC!
This was a fun, unique story. I can totally see this being the next action/romance movie.
The characters were great, the plot was thick and needless to say it keeps you wondering the whole way through.
Did not see those twists in the story.
Thank you Goodreads and Atria Books for my giveaway ARC!
July 6, 2024
This was a cheesy & fun murder mystery meets romantic comedy! It gave me similar vibes as the movie Glass Onion and made for a pretty quick read.
I did almost DNF around 30% because it seemed like the plot was done despite being so close to the beginning of the book. I’m glad I stuck with it because the stakes got higher and had a few twists that I didn’t see coming.
The romance was teased throughout the entire book so it was kinda disappointing when nothing came out of it. Maybe there’s a second book coming with more of that? While I would recommend it, don’t do it for the romance.
Thank you to the authors, NetGalley, and Atria books for sending me an early copy!
I did almost DNF around 30% because it seemed like the plot was done despite being so close to the beginning of the book. I’m glad I stuck with it because the stakes got higher and had a few twists that I didn’t see coming.
The romance was teased throughout the entire book so it was kinda disappointing when nothing came out of it. Maybe there’s a second book coming with more of that? While I would recommend it, don’t do it for the romance.
Thank you to the authors, NetGalley, and Atria books for sending me an early copy!
September 2, 2025
Sounds Like a Plan was a cute Mystery Thriller/ Forced Proximity romance novel. I enjoyed the way the plot unfolded and truly did not expect for it to end the way that it did.
It was clear that both Jackson and Mackenzie were both good at their job but the chemistry between them was undeniable. Their banter, the sparks and the way they seemed to work together flawlessly made this book amazing. There were so many tense moments where I had no idea what was coming next and how things were going to play out.
Finding out that this was a series, excited me. This is a duo I could get behind. I can't wait to see what happens next with these two.
It was clear that both Jackson and Mackenzie were both good at their job but the chemistry between them was undeniable. Their banter, the sparks and the way they seemed to work together flawlessly made this book amazing. There were so many tense moments where I had no idea what was coming next and how things were going to play out.
Finding out that this was a series, excited me. This is a duo I could get behind. I can't wait to see what happens next with these two.
February 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this "meet-cute" novel about two Private Investigators, both hired individually to find Ashley, a young woman whose mother is dying and desperately wants to see her daughter. But of course, nothing is as it appears to be and there is lots of action: car chases, credit card fraud, and mistaken identity. Yes, it sometimes feels "over the top" but it's a fun romp through the world of the ultra-wealthy as they attempt to manipulate others believing their money brings them credibility and power over everyone else!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
December 17, 2024
the plot is really interesting but the mmc was sooo obnoxious like literally the worst.
October 15, 2024
The Plan worked
First, I will admit, I missed the culprit in the story until the end of the story. The authors did a great job with the plot and fleshing out the mystery in the storyline. The political side and the real life events much like politics today, wow, it can be messy. I liked both the male and female characters a lot, they meshed well together in this story. The lack of fully intimate moments did not detract from the storyline. 4.5 stars.
First, I will admit, I missed the culprit in the story until the end of the story. The authors did a great job with the plot and fleshing out the mystery in the storyline. The political side and the real life events much like politics today, wow, it can be messy. I liked both the male and female characters a lot, they meshed well together in this story. The lack of fully intimate moments did not detract from the storyline. 4.5 stars.
October 19, 2024
Sounds like a Plan was my first foray into dual POV and surprisingly I enjoyed this a lot.
This is the kind of crime thriller that I enjoy - suspense, chase, vivid fight scenes and good character tension.
A lot of people complained about the misogynoir of the MMC and many of the other male characters, but it was extremely believable for the profession, age of the characters and geo location. A lot of readers seem to be treating his like a rom-com, and while there is romantic tension, that’s not what this is.
This is the kind of crime thriller that I enjoy - suspense, chase, vivid fight scenes and good character tension.
A lot of people complained about the misogynoir of the MMC and many of the other male characters, but it was extremely believable for the profession, age of the characters and geo location. A lot of readers seem to be treating his like a rom-com, and while there is romantic tension, that’s not what this is.
February 22, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review!
DNFing at 46% approx. Chapter 28
I was super intrigued by the idea of this story and had a decently fun time with the plot/mystery but I absolutely hate Jackson. I think he’s misogynistic and super obnoxious. The idea of being in his POV every chapter was painful and once we get to the point where Jackson and Mackenzie team up more, I couldn’t even get through her POVs since he featured in them so much.
DNFing at 46% approx. Chapter 28
I was super intrigued by the idea of this story and had a decently fun time with the plot/mystery but I absolutely hate Jackson. I think he’s misogynistic and super obnoxious. The idea of being in his POV every chapter was painful and once we get to the point where Jackson and Mackenzie team up more, I couldn’t even get through her POVs since he featured in them so much.
February 19, 2024
Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Jackson and MacKenzie both work for separate firms as private investigator. When there next case throws them together, tt brings the worst out of them. They will need each other to stay alive and solve the case. An ok read.
August 26, 2024
1.5 ⭐️ this was…something. The male main character was insufferable. The main female character was a bad ass with fighting skills etc - and he said “good girl” more than once if she did something he approved of. He also had male gaze Syndrom I just cannot with that. You might like it. I did not. He also lacked nuance. Otherwise, the plot was over the top as expected and kept my interest at least a tiny bit. Too many happy coincidences for my taste, though. And not enough complexity. I would not have finished it, if it were not the end of a month, in which I want to fulfil a reading prompt for a monthly challenge…
August 30, 2024
Yeah this sucked. I received this book as an ARC so I would hope some of these horrible jokes about SA and autism were cut out before publishing but by reading reviews it doesn’t look like they were. Even before all of that, I hated my time with this book because the male MC is a misogynist and reading from his perspective was the worst. Not worth your time.
July 25, 2024
DNF @ 9% the main guy character is extremely misogynistic and sexist, i’ve seen all i needed to know
August 9, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
To me, this initially seemed like it might have a similar vibe to the Finlay Donovan series—fun, fast-paced, witty, and a story that crosses genres, combining mystery with romance, action, and what I hoped would be plenty of humor.
One of the perks of having two authors writing a book together is that when you have two perspectives, the character voices are almost guaranteed to sound different. And in this story, they do sound quite different. I found myself enjoying Mackenzie’s chapters a lot more than Jackson’s, mainly because of the misogynistic overtones to his chapters. It’s really hard to get to like a guy who makes misogyny kind of his thing, and I caught myself drifting off during his chapters and having to reread sections in multiple places. Another thing that I absolutely despised was the way that Jackson was trying to insult someone’s intelligence, but instead of just insulting their intelligence, he said that they must be “on the spectrum,” leading to a really harmful (and blatantly wrong) ableist belief that people on the autism spectrum are intellectually impaired. It was at that point that I completely lost all hope for Jackson to be redeemed in the story.
The story is a fast-paced one and it moves quickly right from the start. I was intrigued enough to want to learn why these two great private investigators wind up in this situation, although it’s clear that they don’t get along well. It makes sense, because I’d hate to have someone watching over my shoulder as I work, thinking that they could do a better job and offering all kinds of feedback when they aren’t my boss. The plot gets a little over the top, but that’s part of what made the story kind of fun to follow along with.
There’s a slow-burn rivals to lovers vibe that runs throughout the story. Right from the start, it’s clear that Mackenzie and Jackson are destined to hit it off, but I never really shipped them as a couple. The connection between them developed naturally, but I felt like Mackenzie deserved better, and could easily do better than Jackson. Aside from his casual misogyny and ableism, he also had another characteristic that I personally despise in a potential partner: a fixation on brands and name dropping them. Every time that he mentions his car, he mentions the make and model, which frustrated me. I got the memo that it was a Mercedes the first time, and hearing eleventy billion more times got old really fast.
Overall, this was a decent read, but it wasn’t a favorite. It was a good fit between heavier reads, but there are some issues that I had with the story. Misogyny and ableism are always gross, and it wasn’t any different when Jackson was doing it. Additionally, the romance seemed like it was heading in one direction, but then it never really ended up going anywhere, which was sort of unexpected. I was a little disappointed, but maybe this is simply the start to a new series. If you’re looking for a light, fast-paced read with a few surprising twists, this could be a good fit for you, as long as you can handle some murder, suicide, gun violence, and Jackson’s abrasive personality.
To me, this initially seemed like it might have a similar vibe to the Finlay Donovan series—fun, fast-paced, witty, and a story that crosses genres, combining mystery with romance, action, and what I hoped would be plenty of humor.
One of the perks of having two authors writing a book together is that when you have two perspectives, the character voices are almost guaranteed to sound different. And in this story, they do sound quite different. I found myself enjoying Mackenzie’s chapters a lot more than Jackson’s, mainly because of the misogynistic overtones to his chapters. It’s really hard to get to like a guy who makes misogyny kind of his thing, and I caught myself drifting off during his chapters and having to reread sections in multiple places. Another thing that I absolutely despised was the way that Jackson was trying to insult someone’s intelligence, but instead of just insulting their intelligence, he said that they must be “on the spectrum,” leading to a really harmful (and blatantly wrong) ableist belief that people on the autism spectrum are intellectually impaired. It was at that point that I completely lost all hope for Jackson to be redeemed in the story.
The story is a fast-paced one and it moves quickly right from the start. I was intrigued enough to want to learn why these two great private investigators wind up in this situation, although it’s clear that they don’t get along well. It makes sense, because I’d hate to have someone watching over my shoulder as I work, thinking that they could do a better job and offering all kinds of feedback when they aren’t my boss. The plot gets a little over the top, but that’s part of what made the story kind of fun to follow along with.
There’s a slow-burn rivals to lovers vibe that runs throughout the story. Right from the start, it’s clear that Mackenzie and Jackson are destined to hit it off, but I never really shipped them as a couple. The connection between them developed naturally, but I felt like Mackenzie deserved better, and could easily do better than Jackson. Aside from his casual misogyny and ableism, he also had another characteristic that I personally despise in a potential partner: a fixation on brands and name dropping them. Every time that he mentions his car, he mentions the make and model, which frustrated me. I got the memo that it was a Mercedes the first time, and hearing eleventy billion more times got old really fast.
Overall, this was a decent read, but it wasn’t a favorite. It was a good fit between heavier reads, but there are some issues that I had with the story. Misogyny and ableism are always gross, and it wasn’t any different when Jackson was doing it. Additionally, the romance seemed like it was heading in one direction, but then it never really ended up going anywhere, which was sort of unexpected. I was a little disappointed, but maybe this is simply the start to a new series. If you’re looking for a light, fast-paced read with a few surprising twists, this could be a good fit for you, as long as you can handle some murder, suicide, gun violence, and Jackson’s abrasive personality.
July 26, 2025
Sounds Like a Plan by Pamela Samuels-Young and Dwayne Alexander Smith (2024)
Sounds Like a Plan #1
V+312-page Kindle Ebook pages 1-291
Genre: Mystery Thriller, Romantic Suspense, African-American Fiction
Featuring: Dual POVs, Private Detectives, Beverly Hills, California; Century City, California; Los Angeles County, California; Los Angeles, California; Inglewood, California; Divorcé, Single Parent, Missing Person Case, Investigation, Rivals Trope, Former LAPD - Police, Assault, Cancer, Family Dynamics, Sex, Gun Violence, Murder, Stupidity, To Be Continued, Preview of Sounds Like Trouble - 2 Chapters, Bibliography for Pamela S. Young, Bibliography for Dwayne Alexander Smith
Rating as a movie: R
Songs for the soundtrack: "Money" by Cardi B., "Habanera" by Georges Bizet, "Been There Done That" by Dr. Dre, "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)" by Jay-Z, "Who Am I (What’s My Name)?" by Snoop Dogg
Books and Authors mentioned: Sounds Like Trouble by Pamela S. Young and Dwayne Alexander Smith, Forty Acres by Dwayne Alexander Smith
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🕵🏾♂️🕵🏾♀️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 72 of 312 Chapter 16 MACKENZIE - I don't know if this is going to have Romance or not, but I feel a drop coming soon; the suspense is quickly rising.
This was a fun story. It had some stupid moments to heighten drama and suspense but not enough to annoy me. I can now continue Book 2 with all of the background story I was missing, it was a lot and needed.
Recommend to others: Yes! This was thrilling and comfortable.
Sounds Like a Plan (with Dwayne Alexander Smith)
1. Sounds Like a Plan (2024)
2. Sounds Like Trouble (2025)
Memorable Quotes: I’m tall. A fit thirty-five years old, and Denzel handsome—and I’m talking Denzel from back in the nineties. My smile’s world-famous for its soothing effect on the fairer sex.
In college, I was initially excited to meet other black girls who’d grown up privileged like me. They’d spent their lives being the token black friend and understood the cultural isolation. But over time, I didn’t much like those girls either, especially the chameleons who easily navigated both worlds. They seemed to revel in their token status—partying every weekend with the white sorority types who professed to be color-blind. But in a group of black girls, they worked overtime at being down with the oppressed, hiding the fact that their parents earned seven figures and that even their great-grandparents had college degrees. In the end, they turned out to be just as fanatical about increasing their TikTok following as the shallowest white girls. In truth, I had never enjoyed a close female friendship because I’d never learned how to be a friend. Iron Man couldn’t have penetrated the force field I’d built around myself.
A moment later we were both in the waiting area, seated side by side on the most comfortable leather sofa my ass had ever met. ["on the most comfortable leather sofa my ass had ever met" is also used in Book 2]
Sounds Like a Plan #1
V+312-page Kindle Ebook pages 1-291
Genre: Mystery Thriller, Romantic Suspense, African-American Fiction
Featuring: Dual POVs, Private Detectives, Beverly Hills, California; Century City, California; Los Angeles County, California; Los Angeles, California; Inglewood, California; Divorcé, Single Parent, Missing Person Case, Investigation, Rivals Trope, Former LAPD - Police, Assault, Cancer, Family Dynamics, Sex, Gun Violence, Murder, Stupidity, To Be Continued, Preview of Sounds Like Trouble - 2 Chapters, Bibliography for Pamela S. Young, Bibliography for Dwayne Alexander Smith
Rating as a movie: R
Songs for the soundtrack: "Money" by Cardi B., "Habanera" by Georges Bizet, "Been There Done That" by Dr. Dre, "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)" by Jay-Z, "Who Am I (What’s My Name)?" by Snoop Dogg
Books and Authors mentioned: Sounds Like Trouble by Pamela S. Young and Dwayne Alexander Smith, Forty Acres by Dwayne Alexander Smith
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🕵🏾♂️🕵🏾♀️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 72 of 312 Chapter 16 MACKENZIE - I don't know if this is going to have Romance or not, but I feel a drop coming soon; the suspense is quickly rising.
This was a fun story. It had some stupid moments to heighten drama and suspense but not enough to annoy me. I can now continue Book 2 with all of the background story I was missing, it was a lot and needed.
Recommend to others: Yes! This was thrilling and comfortable.
Sounds Like a Plan (with Dwayne Alexander Smith)
1. Sounds Like a Plan (2024)
2. Sounds Like Trouble (2025)
Memorable Quotes: I’m tall. A fit thirty-five years old, and Denzel handsome—and I’m talking Denzel from back in the nineties. My smile’s world-famous for its soothing effect on the fairer sex.
In college, I was initially excited to meet other black girls who’d grown up privileged like me. They’d spent their lives being the token black friend and understood the cultural isolation. But over time, I didn’t much like those girls either, especially the chameleons who easily navigated both worlds. They seemed to revel in their token status—partying every weekend with the white sorority types who professed to be color-blind. But in a group of black girls, they worked overtime at being down with the oppressed, hiding the fact that their parents earned seven figures and that even their great-grandparents had college degrees. In the end, they turned out to be just as fanatical about increasing their TikTok following as the shallowest white girls. In truth, I had never enjoyed a close female friendship because I’d never learned how to be a friend. Iron Man couldn’t have penetrated the force field I’d built around myself.
A moment later we were both in the waiting area, seated side by side on the most comfortable leather sofa my ass had ever met. ["on the most comfortable leather sofa my ass had ever met" is also used in Book 2]
June 19, 2024
3.5 stars, actually.
It's sappy, predictable, too often plays into stereotypes and is reminiscent of the old "Moonlighting" TV show except with constantly bickering PIs who are black instead of white. Despite all that, it's a fun story that's a perfect beach read for those who can weather this year's awful heat. But for me, the back-and-forths got tiring after a short while, and if this is the first in a planned sequel - and the ending suggests that may be the case - I'm not exactly chomping at the bit to read another one.
The plot, though, is not bad - and if private investigators Jackson Jones and Mackenzie Cunningham could only figure out whether it's best to knock each other senseless or get hook up, I'd be fully on board. It begins with both characters - working from their own offices in different but nearby areas of California - are approached by a lawyer named Raymond Patterson. For a substantial retainer and a big reward for success, he wants both to drop whatever else they're doing and concentrate on finding a woman named Ashley, whose mother is dying and desperate to reunite with her daughter. Problem is, Patterson doesn't tell Jackson or Mac that he's hired the other - which means the turf war begins shortly after they begin their investigations and realize they're both vying for the same financial payout.
As the investigation (and the tension between Jackson and Mac) heats up, readers learn about their backgrounds and personal peccadilloes. Both come from different backgrounds - Jackson a former police officer - and both are clearly skilled at their current jobs. Working independently, they constantly intrude on each other's turf, where sparks are inevitable. Being highly competitive certainly isn't unexpected - and for the sake of the story, neither is their obvious attraction to each other (but for the love of heaven, either get it on or get on with it already).
Their investigations take them to some seedy, dangerous places, and both Mac and Jackson put their considerable self-preservations skills to the test - a must after a dual murder that changes everything . They realize they've both been had - and if they both want to come out of the whole thing alive, they'd better start working together. From there it's just following the clues and trying to get the bad guys before the bad guys get them. All in all, it's a good romp - and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
It's sappy, predictable, too often plays into stereotypes and is reminiscent of the old "Moonlighting" TV show except with constantly bickering PIs who are black instead of white. Despite all that, it's a fun story that's a perfect beach read for those who can weather this year's awful heat. But for me, the back-and-forths got tiring after a short while, and if this is the first in a planned sequel - and the ending suggests that may be the case - I'm not exactly chomping at the bit to read another one.
The plot, though, is not bad - and if private investigators Jackson Jones and Mackenzie Cunningham could only figure out whether it's best to knock each other senseless or get hook up, I'd be fully on board. It begins with both characters - working from their own offices in different but nearby areas of California - are approached by a lawyer named Raymond Patterson. For a substantial retainer and a big reward for success, he wants both to drop whatever else they're doing and concentrate on finding a woman named Ashley, whose mother is dying and desperate to reunite with her daughter. Problem is, Patterson doesn't tell Jackson or Mac that he's hired the other - which means the turf war begins shortly after they begin their investigations and realize they're both vying for the same financial payout.
As the investigation (and the tension between Jackson and Mac) heats up, readers learn about their backgrounds and personal peccadilloes. Both come from different backgrounds - Jackson a former police officer - and both are clearly skilled at their current jobs. Working independently, they constantly intrude on each other's turf, where sparks are inevitable. Being highly competitive certainly isn't unexpected - and for the sake of the story, neither is their obvious attraction to each other (but for the love of heaven, either get it on or get on with it already).
Their investigations take them to some seedy, dangerous places, and both Mac and Jackson put their considerable self-preservations skills to the test - a must after a dual murder that changes everything . They realize they've both been had - and if they both want to come out of the whole thing alive, they'd better start working together. From there it's just following the clues and trying to get the bad guys before the bad guys get them. All in all, it's a good romp - and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
July 3, 2024
Themes/Tropes:Private Investigators, Action Packed, Mutual Attraction, Missing Person Case, Running for your Life
BIPOC
Dual POV
I need this to be a movie- I read this book so fast because it felt like I was reading (watching) a Mr and Mrs. Smith action packed story. There was a little romance, a lot of tension, bad guys trying to hunt people down and it was a GREAT time.
I really enjoyed that the authors voices blended together well- the POVs were well done and I could tell when I was switching characters. The side characters were fun- there were some plot twist that I did not see coming AT ALL. Needless to say I stayed up until midnight to finish this book... I needed to know what happened.
This book was everything that I didn't know I wanted in a book. I enjoyed that the characters didn't just look for the case they were doing- it went a little beyond that and made the story more exciting. I really enjoyed the banter between the MCs and that there was sexual tension, but it wasn't really acted on because the MMC was a gentleman. I always love a badass FMC that can take care of herself and this book definitely had that.
Thank you Atria for an eARC
CW: suicide, murder
BIPOC
Dual POV
I need this to be a movie- I read this book so fast because it felt like I was reading (watching) a Mr and Mrs. Smith action packed story. There was a little romance, a lot of tension, bad guys trying to hunt people down and it was a GREAT time.
I really enjoyed that the authors voices blended together well- the POVs were well done and I could tell when I was switching characters. The side characters were fun- there were some plot twist that I did not see coming AT ALL. Needless to say I stayed up until midnight to finish this book... I needed to know what happened.
This book was everything that I didn't know I wanted in a book. I enjoyed that the characters didn't just look for the case they were doing- it went a little beyond that and made the story more exciting. I really enjoyed the banter between the MCs and that there was sexual tension, but it wasn't really acted on because the MMC was a gentleman. I always love a badass FMC that can take care of herself and this book definitely had that.
Thank you Atria for an eARC
CW: suicide, murder
June 3, 2025
2.5
I had a lot of mixed feelings on this. I enjoyed Mackenzie's character for the most part, but I really struggled with Jackson. One minute he'd be respectable and doing something admirable, and then the next minute he'd be talking about women and their "tight little bodies." I hate it when women are described like that. It just gives off major ick vibes. The pacing was pretty decent, but the story got a bit unbelievable towards the end. The authors were trying to up the ante, but some of the situations just didn't seem to fit.
I mostly didn't mind the bickering between Mac and Jackson, though it didn't always flow well. This is something I'm sure the authors can improve on. There's always going to be some stylistic differences when authors cowrite a book - it's just finding that right groove to make it all work.
I do have an ARC for the next book in the series which is what led me to read this. I have hope that the authors will have improved and worked on getting the groove they need.
I had a lot of mixed feelings on this. I enjoyed Mackenzie's character for the most part, but I really struggled with Jackson. One minute he'd be respectable and doing something admirable, and then the next minute he'd be talking about women and their "tight little bodies." I hate it when women are described like that. It just gives off major ick vibes. The pacing was pretty decent, but the story got a bit unbelievable towards the end. The authors were trying to up the ante, but some of the situations just didn't seem to fit.
I mostly didn't mind the bickering between Mac and Jackson, though it didn't always flow well. This is something I'm sure the authors can improve on. There's always going to be some stylistic differences when authors cowrite a book - it's just finding that right groove to make it all work.
I do have an ARC for the next book in the series which is what led me to read this. I have hope that the authors will have improved and worked on getting the groove they need.
April 19, 2024
I'm not a big thriller/mystery fan, but this book looked like a romance that had thriller elements to it, so I decided to check it out. In my opinion, it's not a romance. It's more a thriller/mystery with romantic elements. The romance isn't the focus of the book and this book had very little steam.
The story had way too much going on. They went from one lead to another, with lots of drama and lots of people getting murdered. I didn't predict the killer, but there were very little breadcrumbs that would lead you to that conclusion. And the death at the very end - I thought it was unnecessary and sad. After that point, I was not interested in hearing about Mackenzie and Jackson's happy ending.
This book wasn't for me.
The story had way too much going on. They went from one lead to another, with lots of drama and lots of people getting murdered. I didn't predict the killer, but there were very little breadcrumbs that would lead you to that conclusion. And the death at the very end - I thought it was unnecessary and sad. After that point, I was not interested in hearing about Mackenzie and Jackson's happy ending.
This book wasn't for me.
July 3, 2024
This was a super fun, dual POV, romantic suspense novel that sees two rival PIs forced to team up for a chance to win an assignment with a big payoff. What ensues is lots of action and forced proximity goodness with tons of chemistry between the two leads and a swoony single dad MMC I couldn't help falling for myself!
I loved that this book featured older BIPOC character and gave off Mr & Mrs Smith and The bounty hunter movie vibes in all the best ways. Great on audio and highly recommended!! Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon.Audio for a complimentary digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
I loved that this book featured older BIPOC character and gave off Mr & Mrs Smith and The bounty hunter movie vibes in all the best ways. Great on audio and highly recommended!! Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon.Audio for a complimentary digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
July 30, 2024
3.5⭐️
Fast-Paced. Witty Banter. Sparks Flying.
Mackenzie Cunningham and Jackson Jones recently discovered they have a lot in common, when they realized they’d both been hired for the same missing person’s case.
They started off as competitors and the stakes were too high to collaborate but once they knew it was a set up for them to take the fall for a murder, they had no choice but to partner up.
With non-stop bickering and witty banter, the intensity of their feelings for each other rises but must be put on the back burner as the pursuit of their lives is currently in play.
Thank you to @netgalley and @atriabooks for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Sounds Like A Plan is available for purchase now.
Fast-Paced. Witty Banter. Sparks Flying.
Mackenzie Cunningham and Jackson Jones recently discovered they have a lot in common, when they realized they’d both been hired for the same missing person’s case.
They started off as competitors and the stakes were too high to collaborate but once they knew it was a set up for them to take the fall for a murder, they had no choice but to partner up.
With non-stop bickering and witty banter, the intensity of their feelings for each other rises but must be put on the back burner as the pursuit of their lives is currently in play.
Thank you to @netgalley and @atriabooks for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Sounds Like A Plan is available for purchase now.
August 1, 2024
This book really surprised me, It was a super fun, fast paced adventure. I really love MacKenzie's "take no sh!+ attitude, and the fact that Jackson admires that about her and respects her for the kick @$$ woman that she is. I read a couple other reviews that were disappointed the two of them didn't close the deal, but I kind of love that they decided to take it slow and feel like it was the perfect set up for another book where they partner up for another case. Thank you soooo much, good reads, Pamela Samuels Young & Dwayne Alexander Smith for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2024
Mackenzie Cunningham and Jackson Jones are the duo we didn’t know we needed. This unlikely pair of PIs team up to solve a disappearance that quickly turns to murder. Disagreements, arguments, and gunplay ensue, as does a smoldering attraction. I hope this book turns into a series, something Pamela Samuels Young has mastered with her Vernetta Henderson and Angela Evans/Dre Thomas characters. I enjoyed this book, rooted for these characters and hope to see them again soon. 3 and a half stars…
June 27, 2024
I hate to give books less than 3 stars but I just couldn't justify 3 stars. I disliked this book. The writing wasn't great and the male's pov was abhorrent. Ugh. Not a great book. The premise sounded promising. I usually enjoy the private investigator trope. This book was not for me.
July 1, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and authors for this ebook arc!
I loved this book. The action is good, the slow burn is even better. I enjoyed the banter! I didn’t like some of the jokes that were made and that’s why I gave this book 4 stars
I loved this book. The action is good, the slow burn is even better. I enjoyed the banter! I didn’t like some of the jokes that were made and that’s why I gave this book 4 stars
July 11, 2024
This one started off strong for me. I really enjoyed both of the main characters, but around 60% the story line just got too far fetched for me. Overall, I thought it was a fun read. I would like to see this brought to the big screen.
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