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Starboard Beach #1
When Our Stars Aligned
Sometimes fate takes fifteen years… and thousands of miles to finally bring two people together.
Jax
I’ve been doing just fine on my own, living life on autopilot after my time in the Navy…When my gram told me in her last hours that she’d always known the girl I was supposed to be with, I figured it was the meds talking. Then the new girl across the hall crashed my bachelor lifestyle and made me think twice. Now all I can think about is the leggy, mischievous, and sweet woman from Georgia who’s gotten under my skin.
Aly
All I ever wanted in life was to love and be loved…Leaving my hometown to move cross-country and start over in my thirties should feel terrifying, but it’s honestly liberating. From losing my found family to leaving a man who kept me in an emotional pressure cooker, I’ve come to terms that the only love I’ll find is within me and I’m fine with that. Until I meet the one guy who makes me want to break my vow.
Too bad he’s sworn off relationships entirely.
Jax
I’ve been doing just fine on my own, living life on autopilot after my time in the Navy…When my gram told me in her last hours that she’d always known the girl I was supposed to be with, I figured it was the meds talking. Then the new girl across the hall crashed my bachelor lifestyle and made me think twice. Now all I can think about is the leggy, mischievous, and sweet woman from Georgia who’s gotten under my skin.
Aly
All I ever wanted in life was to love and be loved…Leaving my hometown to move cross-country and start over in my thirties should feel terrifying, but it’s honestly liberating. From losing my found family to leaving a man who kept me in an emotional pressure cooker, I’ve come to terms that the only love I’ll find is within me and I’m fine with that. Until I meet the one guy who makes me want to break my vow.
Too bad he’s sworn off relationships entirely.
- GenresRomance
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2024
60 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
April 3, 2024
Thank you so much Tracy McJames for the ARC copy of this book. I picked it up one evening, and I could not put it down. I had to go to work the next morning (how rude of my workplace to require such things), and I couldn't wait to get home and pick it back up.
When Our Stars Aligned follows Jax and Aly in dual points of view. First of all, the interaction between them had me laughing out loud, admittedly mostly at Aly and how she pushed every single one of Jax's buttons. Make sure you are alone when you read the bathroom scene with a disoriented Jax...you WILL crack up and people WILL think you're crazy if you are in public :) I loved the chemistry between Jax and Aly and also loved how they both changed and developed throughout the story. I was rooting for them from their first meeting.
The thing I really loved about this book was that it wasn't just the story of two people who had chemistry or who you wanted to get together. Long before they ever met, a sweet little old grandma had already recognized that they were soulmates and was confident they would and should be together. I absolutely loved this part of the story and it is what made this book so much more than just a romance story.
The found family in this book is amazing as well, and I am so excited that it looks like there will be more stories from this universe! I highly recommend this book. It really took me by surprise and I am now a solid Tracy McJames fan!
When Our Stars Aligned follows Jax and Aly in dual points of view. First of all, the interaction between them had me laughing out loud, admittedly mostly at Aly and how she pushed every single one of Jax's buttons. Make sure you are alone when you read the bathroom scene with a disoriented Jax...you WILL crack up and people WILL think you're crazy if you are in public :) I loved the chemistry between Jax and Aly and also loved how they both changed and developed throughout the story. I was rooting for them from their first meeting.
The thing I really loved about this book was that it wasn't just the story of two people who had chemistry or who you wanted to get together. Long before they ever met, a sweet little old grandma had already recognized that they were soulmates and was confident they would and should be together. I absolutely loved this part of the story and it is what made this book so much more than just a romance story.
The found family in this book is amazing as well, and I am so excited that it looks like there will be more stories from this universe! I highly recommend this book. It really took me by surprise and I am now a solid Tracy McJames fan!
March 5, 2024
First I want to thank Tracy McJames for allowing me to read an advance copy of her book.
This book was so dang cute! I'm going to try to write this without any spoilers. The idea of how sometimes it takes years to find your soulmate and love of your life and how sometimes you just barely miss meeting them is such a fantastic theme. I related to it personally which is what made me love it even more! I loved how it was a slow buildup with the romance between Jax and Aly. It felt more relatable than the books where the romance hits with the first two chapters and you still have the rest of the book to go. Another thing about this book that I loved was the dual POV and how it switches off every chapter. The pace and flow of the book was good and I didn't really find myself struggling to get through any single part of the book.
If you are looking for an incredibly spicy book, this wouldn't be for you. The spice is mild and I loved that. It was a nice break from the romance books that are filled with spice in almost every part of the book. I honestly cannot wait for the next book to come out!
This book was so dang cute! I'm going to try to write this without any spoilers. The idea of how sometimes it takes years to find your soulmate and love of your life and how sometimes you just barely miss meeting them is such a fantastic theme. I related to it personally which is what made me love it even more! I loved how it was a slow buildup with the romance between Jax and Aly. It felt more relatable than the books where the romance hits with the first two chapters and you still have the rest of the book to go. Another thing about this book that I loved was the dual POV and how it switches off every chapter. The pace and flow of the book was good and I didn't really find myself struggling to get through any single part of the book.
If you are looking for an incredibly spicy book, this wouldn't be for you. The spice is mild and I loved that. It was a nice break from the romance books that are filled with spice in almost every part of the book. I honestly cannot wait for the next book to come out!
March 9, 2024
This was seriously just a fun, sweet romance. It had me laughing from the beginning and tearing up at the end. The way Aly & Jax were together the banter, the acceptance oh my heart. 💜
April 12, 2024
Not often do I devour a book like this. The minute I started reading, I found it hard to put down. It had me in all of my feels. I cried twice before it was over!
The storyline flowed and was well crafted. Our lead characters, Aly and Jax, did not know that their connection was deeply rooted in the past. The angst was heavy and the flirty banter was perfect! I also loved their fun friend group and the relationships between them.
I thought it was a beautifully written story by Tracy McJames. It is hard to believe this is her debut novel. I am a such a fan now and will read anything she writes!
What to expect:
🎆 Rom-com
🎆 Grumpy-Sunshine
🎆 Forced Proximity
🎆 Ex-military MMC
🎆 Slow Burn
🎆 Found Family
🎆 Dual POV
Thank you to Tracy McJames for providing me an ARC copy. This book is truly amazing and everyone should add to their TBR. All opinions are my own.
The storyline flowed and was well crafted. Our lead characters, Aly and Jax, did not know that their connection was deeply rooted in the past. The angst was heavy and the flirty banter was perfect! I also loved their fun friend group and the relationships between them.
I thought it was a beautifully written story by Tracy McJames. It is hard to believe this is her debut novel. I am a such a fan now and will read anything she writes!
What to expect:
🎆 Rom-com
🎆 Grumpy-Sunshine
🎆 Forced Proximity
🎆 Ex-military MMC
🎆 Slow Burn
🎆 Found Family
🎆 Dual POV
Thank you to Tracy McJames for providing me an ARC copy. This book is truly amazing and everyone should add to their TBR. All opinions are my own.
December 4, 2024
4.5 ☆ rounded to 5. This book was ridiculously sweet. I enjoyed Jax and Aly's story and seeing them heal together from their past awful relationships. This is the kind of book that makes you believe in soulmates and long to find your own. <3
October 26, 2024
This book was amazing 👏
One: Nonna Grace/Gram, I LOVE YOU! She truly is a matchmaker . Come on, yall, the cookie recipe 👀👀 I see you, Nonna Grace
Two: THE BANTER IN THIS BOOK WAS FREAKING EPIC!!! Poor Jax being hopped up on all his pain meds thinking he was missing an ✨️important✨️ body part 🤣🤣 Aly is a real one for trying to keep it together in that moment, to be fair she did laugh the next day and honestly as she should because that whole scene was absolutely hysterical. Not to mention her actively just doing random things to annoy the crude out of Jax had me DYING of laughter. Yes, I remember these book scenes, and no, I will not be giving any insight or context.*Read the book*
Aly is probably going on my FMC spirit animal list because, holy cow, her brain waves match mine almost to the TEE. The fish poop scene and the male stripper conversations with Jax are truly some for the memory books, yall!! And aside from her vibrant personality, she truly just embodies the "it's just a chapter and the story can only get better" motto because holy cow her ex and that whole relationship with her ex was a rough experience and she still didn't let it change her at her core.
Jax is so strong. I truly enjoyed watching him grow as a character over the course of the book because, honestly, he was kind of a butt butt at the beginning of the book. Sometimes the right person can show you that the days do in fact get easier and that if the spatula doesn't go next to the potato masher the world isn't going to crack in two at the core. *I'm sorry I couldn't help it. That whole kitchen scene was actually funny 🤣🤣* I'm genuinely happy that Jax was able to find his smile again because between his naval tour/injury that occurred due to said tour and his really not so fun ex-wife (totally not cool it's not kind to do that to a man) he truly deserved the sky.
Tracy McJames did a very good job giving romance that did heavily revolve around sex. Which is nice because it allows the focus to be more around the dynamic and relationship between the main characters and supporting characters. Honestly, as much as I was living for the romance between Jax and Aly, the dynamic built between the whole friend group was simply amazing. Also, they are all absolutely hilarious when they're all together. I loved it!!
One: Nonna Grace/Gram, I LOVE YOU! She truly is a matchmaker . Come on, yall, the cookie recipe 👀👀 I see you, Nonna Grace
Two: THE BANTER IN THIS BOOK WAS FREAKING EPIC!!! Poor Jax being hopped up on all his pain meds thinking he was missing an ✨️important✨️ body part 🤣🤣 Aly is a real one for trying to keep it together in that moment, to be fair she did laugh the next day and honestly as she should because that whole scene was absolutely hysterical. Not to mention her actively just doing random things to annoy the crude out of Jax had me DYING of laughter. Yes, I remember these book scenes, and no, I will not be giving any insight or context.*Read the book*
Aly is probably going on my FMC spirit animal list because, holy cow, her brain waves match mine almost to the TEE. The fish poop scene and the male stripper conversations with Jax are truly some for the memory books, yall!! And aside from her vibrant personality, she truly just embodies the "it's just a chapter and the story can only get better" motto because holy cow her ex and that whole relationship with her ex was a rough experience and she still didn't let it change her at her core.
Jax is so strong. I truly enjoyed watching him grow as a character over the course of the book because, honestly, he was kind of a butt butt at the beginning of the book. Sometimes the right person can show you that the days do in fact get easier and that if the spatula doesn't go next to the potato masher the world isn't going to crack in two at the core. *I'm sorry I couldn't help it. That whole kitchen scene was actually funny 🤣🤣* I'm genuinely happy that Jax was able to find his smile again because between his naval tour/injury that occurred due to said tour and his really not so fun ex-wife (totally not cool it's not kind to do that to a man) he truly deserved the sky.
Tracy McJames did a very good job giving romance that did heavily revolve around sex. Which is nice because it allows the focus to be more around the dynamic and relationship between the main characters and supporting characters. Honestly, as much as I was living for the romance between Jax and Aly, the dynamic built between the whole friend group was simply amazing. Also, they are all absolutely hilarious when they're all together. I loved it!!
February 18, 2024
✨✨Review Time✨✨
When Our Stars Aligned By @tracymcjamesbooks
Book overview
Sometimes fate takes fifteen years… and thousands of miles to finally bring two
people together.
Jax:
I’ve been doing just fine on my own, living life on autopilot after my time in the Navy…
When my gram told me in her last hours that she’d always known the girl I was supposed to be with, I figured it was the meds talking.
Then the new girl across the hall crashed my bachelor lifestyle and made me think
twice. Now all I can think about is the leggy, mischievous, and sweet woman from Georgia who’s gotten under my skin.
Aly:
All I ever wanted in life was to love and be loved…
Leaving my hometown to move cross-country and start over in my thirties should feel terrifying, but it’s honestly liberating.
From losing my found family to leaving a man who kept me in an emotional pressure
cooker, I’ve come to terms that the only love I’ll find is within me and I’m fine with that.
Until I meet the one guy who makes me want to break my vow.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 I loved this book. LOVED it. The writing was excellent. The story was so sweet and well developed. The romance was perfect and just the right amount of spice for me. And it was so so funny. I laughed out loud so many times, my husband kept asking “what are you laughing about?” The cobra chicken had me rolling. 😂 This is a book I won’t forget.
When Our Stars Aligned by Tracy McJames comes out April 10th and I WILL be telling all my friends they need to read it. So so good.
When Our Stars Aligned By @tracymcjamesbooks
Book overview
Sometimes fate takes fifteen years… and thousands of miles to finally bring two
people together.
Jax:
I’ve been doing just fine on my own, living life on autopilot after my time in the Navy…
When my gram told me in her last hours that she’d always known the girl I was supposed to be with, I figured it was the meds talking.
Then the new girl across the hall crashed my bachelor lifestyle and made me think
twice. Now all I can think about is the leggy, mischievous, and sweet woman from Georgia who’s gotten under my skin.
Aly:
All I ever wanted in life was to love and be loved…
Leaving my hometown to move cross-country and start over in my thirties should feel terrifying, but it’s honestly liberating.
From losing my found family to leaving a man who kept me in an emotional pressure
cooker, I’ve come to terms that the only love I’ll find is within me and I’m fine with that.
Until I meet the one guy who makes me want to break my vow.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 I loved this book. LOVED it. The writing was excellent. The story was so sweet and well developed. The romance was perfect and just the right amount of spice for me. And it was so so funny. I laughed out loud so many times, my husband kept asking “what are you laughing about?” The cobra chicken had me rolling. 😂 This is a book I won’t forget.
When Our Stars Aligned by Tracy McJames comes out April 10th and I WILL be telling all my friends they need to read it. So so good.
March 23, 2024
I received an e-ARC of this book. Thank you, Tracy!
5 ⭐️
1 🌶
4 😂
Wow, I don’t even know where to start for this book review…. I am speechless. Have you ever read a book where you felt so connected to the characters and where you felt like you were part of the friend group/found family? This is exactly how this book made me feel. I will always be a part of 3rd East!
The slow burn and pace of the book were perfect. Aly and Jace might just be my new favorite book couple so far this year or maybe to date. Their banter and love had me in all the feels, especially the literal laugh out loud moments (aka Cobra Chicken). I also really loved how we got to know them and their backstories without taking away from the current timeline. The dual POV made this book have a good flow, which means I couldn’t put this down (Oops, sorry responsibilities). The invisible thread that weaves their story together is unexpected and swoon-worthy in every way. I also really loved all the supporting characters so much that I hope the other books in this series will be about them *COUGH M&C COUGH*
The ending wrapped up the book very well and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling in my belly and a huge smile on my face.
If you love the following Tropes, this book is for you
✨️Found family
✨️Grumpy/Sunshine
✨️Ex military MMC
✨️Slow burn
✨️He falls first
✨️HEA
5 ⭐️
1 🌶
4 😂
Wow, I don’t even know where to start for this book review…. I am speechless. Have you ever read a book where you felt so connected to the characters and where you felt like you were part of the friend group/found family? This is exactly how this book made me feel. I will always be a part of 3rd East!
The slow burn and pace of the book were perfect. Aly and Jace might just be my new favorite book couple so far this year or maybe to date. Their banter and love had me in all the feels, especially the literal laugh out loud moments (aka Cobra Chicken). I also really loved how we got to know them and their backstories without taking away from the current timeline. The dual POV made this book have a good flow, which means I couldn’t put this down (Oops, sorry responsibilities). The invisible thread that weaves their story together is unexpected and swoon-worthy in every way. I also really loved all the supporting characters so much that I hope the other books in this series will be about them *COUGH M&C COUGH*
The ending wrapped up the book very well and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling in my belly and a huge smile on my face.
If you love the following Tropes, this book is for you
✨️Found family
✨️Grumpy/Sunshine
✨️Ex military MMC
✨️Slow burn
✨️He falls first
✨️HEA
November 3, 2024
This was so sweet.
Found family that was lost and then found again. I totally welled up at that part and had to wipe the tears away.
This book is just like a warm hug, has a bit of tension a of course to add the needed drama to keep the reader engaged but also nice and fluffy too.
Aly, our FMC, has overcome a lot of neglect but is such a charming, warm and humorous person despite it all. There is definitely some past ghosts that surface, but she takes care of that nice a quick. Love me a satisfying scene where the woman owns her power and takes it back. Kapow! Her processing and acceptance of the relationship that develops with Jax was nice to see evolve as well.
Jax, our MMC, is our guarded and distant cinnamon roll. He lives his life a specific way and has not wavered since his return from the navy. Order and solitude are his shield. Then Aly comes…swimming (wink) into his world and it all goes off kilter for the good. The shields get lowered and the wonder that is Aly becomes what saves him. *insert rapid blinking by the reviewer here as she’s a sap*
Loved the side characters! Travis is intriguing, Jacob amusing…Alex, Carter, Michelle and Gabi too! Cannot wait to dig into the arc for book two! Woo.
Found family that was lost and then found again. I totally welled up at that part and had to wipe the tears away.
This book is just like a warm hug, has a bit of tension a of course to add the needed drama to keep the reader engaged but also nice and fluffy too.
Aly, our FMC, has overcome a lot of neglect but is such a charming, warm and humorous person despite it all. There is definitely some past ghosts that surface, but she takes care of that nice a quick. Love me a satisfying scene where the woman owns her power and takes it back. Kapow! Her processing and acceptance of the relationship that develops with Jax was nice to see evolve as well.
Jax, our MMC, is our guarded and distant cinnamon roll. He lives his life a specific way and has not wavered since his return from the navy. Order and solitude are his shield. Then Aly comes…swimming (wink) into his world and it all goes off kilter for the good. The shields get lowered and the wonder that is Aly becomes what saves him. *insert rapid blinking by the reviewer here as she’s a sap*
Loved the side characters! Travis is intriguing, Jacob amusing…Alex, Carter, Michelle and Gabi too! Cannot wait to dig into the arc for book two! Woo.
February 17, 2024
Thank you @traceymcjamesbooks for the ARC of When Our Stars Aligned. This is my honest review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
My thoughts:
I LOVED this book so much! I was kept engaged throughout the story. I honestly couldn’t put the book down once I started it.
The main characters, Aly and Jax…..what fun it was getting to know them!
What did I love about this book? EVERYTHING!
💜The storyline
💚 The characters
🤎 The humor
🩷The cuteness overload
♥️The sexual tension
🖤 The slow burn 🔥
🤍 The romance
With that said, When Our Stars Aligned is a book you do not want to miss out on reading. The ending epilogue was perfect. Then, a bonus epilogue??? Oh, my gosh……just perfect.
Tracy McJames writing flows effortlessly in such a sweet way. A new favorite author for sure.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
My thoughts:
I LOVED this book so much! I was kept engaged throughout the story. I honestly couldn’t put the book down once I started it.
The main characters, Aly and Jax…..what fun it was getting to know them!
What did I love about this book? EVERYTHING!
💜The storyline
💚 The characters
🤎 The humor
🩷The cuteness overload
♥️The sexual tension
🖤 The slow burn 🔥
🤍 The romance
With that said, When Our Stars Aligned is a book you do not want to miss out on reading. The ending epilogue was perfect. Then, a bonus epilogue??? Oh, my gosh……just perfect.
Tracy McJames writing flows effortlessly in such a sweet way. A new favorite author for sure.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
February 26, 2024
The romance of the two main characters was really sweet. This was a much-needed pallet cleanser from all of the dark and suspenseful romances. I had been reading lol.
This was a very cute read. It gave me cozy hallmark and romcom vibes. The way she intertwined the characters from the beginning, was well thought out, and I loved it. I loved reading about their journey, finding one another.
To me, this book had about a half to one 🌶️ spice level, but if you were looking for a romance vibe that makes you smile and giddy as you watch a couple fall, fall in love, then this is definitely going to be the book for you. 🩵🩵🩵
The ending wrapped up beautifully and I cannot wait to see what more this author puts out. This is the cutest sweetest read 🩵
This was a very cute read. It gave me cozy hallmark and romcom vibes. The way she intertwined the characters from the beginning, was well thought out, and I loved it. I loved reading about their journey, finding one another.
To me, this book had about a half to one 🌶️ spice level, but if you were looking for a romance vibe that makes you smile and giddy as you watch a couple fall, fall in love, then this is definitely going to be the book for you. 🩵🩵🩵
The ending wrapped up beautifully and I cannot wait to see what more this author puts out. This is the cutest sweetest read 🩵
July 22, 2024
This book was adorable from the first chapter to the end! I just love a soulmate kind of story like this. I also really loved all the characters introduced into this book and I want to be friends with them all. I think that group of friends really made for a fun part of the story. Aly is fleeing her home in Georgia to get away from her ex fiancé after things do not turn out as she had planned. Jax is broody, moody ex military guy who just seems to be coasting through life not ready to be in a relationship due to past relationship that didn’t end well. I loved the witty banter between Jax and Aly. The slow burn was perfection, it kept me engaged and addicted to the story to see where it would go!
February 15, 2024
Tropes- Grumpy/ Sunshine, Ex Military MMC, Fated Mates, Rom-Com, Mistaken Identity, Slow Burn
5/5⭐️
2/5 🌶️
When you take a job thousands of miles away from home to get away from your controlling ex and you run right into the man you were always meant to be with. Too bad neither of you know it...yet.
I absolutely loved this book. I was hooked in the first chapter. I knew right off the bat that I was going to absolutely love Aly and Jax. I also loved their friend group. They are the type of friends where you just come and go in their apartment and hang out together, eat together, and are always there for each other.
I just loved it. Aly and Jax had me laughing like crazy.
They were so funny. They also had great banter. And I loved the way that they felt safe with one another and opened up for one another. It was just such a good story. I couldn't put it down, and I absolutely flew through it. I already cannot wait for the next book!
5/5⭐️
2/5 🌶️
When you take a job thousands of miles away from home to get away from your controlling ex and you run right into the man you were always meant to be with. Too bad neither of you know it...yet.
I absolutely loved this book. I was hooked in the first chapter. I knew right off the bat that I was going to absolutely love Aly and Jax. I also loved their friend group. They are the type of friends where you just come and go in their apartment and hang out together, eat together, and are always there for each other.
I just loved it. Aly and Jax had me laughing like crazy.
They were so funny. They also had great banter. And I loved the way that they felt safe with one another and opened up for one another. It was just such a good story. I couldn't put it down, and I absolutely flew through it. I already cannot wait for the next book!
March 2, 2024
Read this as an ARC
This book was such a sweet read 💛
Jax and Aly were just meant to be and Nonna Grace knew it all along. Both have experienced their own traumas and issues but find a sort of solace in each other. Aly’s an independent, strong, girl but Jax’s protective side only compliments her. The circle of friends really supporting Aly and Jax together yet separately too really stages the story. I loved how the author leads up and gives such a preface to shadow into the story and the epilogues at the end. All in all, loved this novel and its feel good vibes. Very hallmark movie love story 💙💛
This book was such a sweet read 💛
Jax and Aly were just meant to be and Nonna Grace knew it all along. Both have experienced their own traumas and issues but find a sort of solace in each other. Aly’s an independent, strong, girl but Jax’s protective side only compliments her. The circle of friends really supporting Aly and Jax together yet separately too really stages the story. I loved how the author leads up and gives such a preface to shadow into the story and the epilogues at the end. All in all, loved this novel and its feel good vibes. Very hallmark movie love story 💙💛
November 20, 2024
Loved this book! Discovered the second book in this series first, Counting the Stars so had to venture to this one to read before I get started on that.
I’m so glad I did because Jax and Aly’s story is one that had me eager to turn the pages to! The banter between characters is fantastic, and I loved the connection between them. The group gives me FRIENDS vibes and I am totally here for it.
Certain aspects felt a bit overly dramatic, like it was a bit forced, but I think it came out that way because truly 85% of this book really is just a happy love story that will have you feeling all the feels.
If you’re looking for a beautiful HEA, look no further!
I’m so glad I did because Jax and Aly’s story is one that had me eager to turn the pages to! The banter between characters is fantastic, and I loved the connection between them. The group gives me FRIENDS vibes and I am totally here for it.
Certain aspects felt a bit overly dramatic, like it was a bit forced, but I think it came out that way because truly 85% of this book really is just a happy love story that will have you feeling all the feels.
If you’re looking for a beautiful HEA, look no further!
February 22, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Tropes-
Fated Mates
Grumpy x sunshine
Ex-Military MMC
Neglected FMC
Slow burn
Mistaken Identities
This is officially one of my comfort books.
Contemporary Romance where MMC and FMC both are broken who trust no one and yet feel comfortable to seek solace into each other??
THIS BOOK IS IT!
This is a debut book and it is just amazing. The plot, the characters, the connection between the main characters, it's just magical.
Jaxon Parker is a hot, tatted character and possessive for his girl. A new book boyfriend introduced!
After years of being separated from the woman who broke his trust, he has build a wall around him. But after spending some time with Alyssa Ann Winters for only a few days, he breaks down his gaurd and develops a soft corner for her. He wants to spend more time with her and cannot see her with any other person. He doesn't understand the bond he is starting to create with Aly.
Alyssa Winters is an amazing character and a very strong woman. She's smart and carefree.
Alyssa is moving on from a very bad traumatic break up and finds it difficult to trust anyone. But with Jax, she feels like she can be herself around him. She knows he will always be there to protect her.
But what they both not know, is that they are meant to be together forever ♾️
It doesn't have much of a suspense or a plot twist, but this was the type of book I found myself lost in the story. It was simple but a really beautiful story of two people who belong with each other. I laughed, I cried and I enjoyed every second of this book.
The friends in this book are supportive of each other and I can see a few characters who can have a book of their own!
If this is going to be a series, I am really excited to read the other books!!
🌶️🌶️
Tropes-
Fated Mates
Grumpy x sunshine
Ex-Military MMC
Neglected FMC
Slow burn
Mistaken Identities
This is officially one of my comfort books.
Contemporary Romance where MMC and FMC both are broken who trust no one and yet feel comfortable to seek solace into each other??
THIS BOOK IS IT!
This is a debut book and it is just amazing. The plot, the characters, the connection between the main characters, it's just magical.
Jaxon Parker is a hot, tatted character and possessive for his girl. A new book boyfriend introduced!
After years of being separated from the woman who broke his trust, he has build a wall around him. But after spending some time with Alyssa Ann Winters for only a few days, he breaks down his gaurd and develops a soft corner for her. He wants to spend more time with her and cannot see her with any other person. He doesn't understand the bond he is starting to create with Aly.
Alyssa Winters is an amazing character and a very strong woman. She's smart and carefree.
Alyssa is moving on from a very bad traumatic break up and finds it difficult to trust anyone. But with Jax, she feels like she can be herself around him. She knows he will always be there to protect her.
But what they both not know, is that they are meant to be together forever ♾️
It doesn't have much of a suspense or a plot twist, but this was the type of book I found myself lost in the story. It was simple but a really beautiful story of two people who belong with each other. I laughed, I cried and I enjoyed every second of this book.
The friends in this book are supportive of each other and I can see a few characters who can have a book of their own!
If this is going to be a series, I am really excited to read the other books!!
March 2, 2024
I am so glad this was my first ARC review experience because I absolutely adored this story. When Our Stars Aligned contains a grumpy/sunshine trope and even though Jax and Aly hold two different personalities, they fit so well with one another. I love how this book is solely built off of fate, and the timeline within the story is a great one with many, many laughs and smiles. I also enjoyed how the ending of the story tied together with the very beginning, that made the ending so much more meaningful. This is a book that I would definitely love to read for the first time again.
February 11, 2024
First off, I’d like to thank Tracy McJames for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review! 🥰
Though this book is on the short end compared to most, coming in under 300 pages, it packs a punch with a beautiful overarching storyline.
Throughout ‘When Our Stars Aligned’, love blossoms between two people who have sworn off relationships for good after experiencing what seems like the worst. Both Aly and Jax help each other learn about themselves as they learn about each other in this lovely swirling romance.
There are a handful of tough topics covered in this story including a family death, mental abuse, and other traumas. Each topic is covered well and is handled with grace, truly making the reader see the emotion behind each.
Aly and Jax’s budding relationship happens just as real relationships do, slowly and then seemingly all at once, (even though our man definitely falls first 😉).
This was a nice, relaxing, refreshing read and I enjoyed it greatly! 🥰
Though this book is on the short end compared to most, coming in under 300 pages, it packs a punch with a beautiful overarching storyline.
Throughout ‘When Our Stars Aligned’, love blossoms between two people who have sworn off relationships for good after experiencing what seems like the worst. Both Aly and Jax help each other learn about themselves as they learn about each other in this lovely swirling romance.
There are a handful of tough topics covered in this story including a family death, mental abuse, and other traumas. Each topic is covered well and is handled with grace, truly making the reader see the emotion behind each.
Aly and Jax’s budding relationship happens just as real relationships do, slowly and then seemingly all at once, (even though our man definitely falls first 😉).
This was a nice, relaxing, refreshing read and I enjoyed it greatly! 🥰
April 29, 2024
This wasnt a binge read for me but I did want to finish it for sure. There was some banter that made me laugh out loud. It felt slow at times. No big hooks or plot twists, just overall an enjoyable love story.
There was some mild language and sexual content though out, mostly in a joking way.
There was some mild language and sexual content though out, mostly in a joking way.
April 19, 2024
hmm... i have a little bit of mixed feelings... i think the plot is okay however the execution lacks depth. the flow from one chapter to the next seems kind of choppy, like there are a lot of happenings in between but it wasn't shown. so the "i love you" felt kind of random because there wasn't much "dating" part shown.
overall, i think it could be better if the execution is smooth out a little bit.
overall, i think it could be better if the execution is smooth out a little bit.
April 25, 2024
Hooked after the first few chapters. I fell in love with the characters from the beginning.
Wonderful story that made me laugh out loud and peppered with moments when I smiled and shook my head.
This is such a great debut and I hope there will be many more stories of 3rd East residents.
If you want a feel good romance then this is for you.
Wonderful story that made me laugh out loud and peppered with moments when I smiled and shook my head.
This is such a great debut and I hope there will be many more stories of 3rd East residents.
If you want a feel good romance then this is for you.
April 16, 2024
First off, I would like to thank @Tracy McJames for granting me the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book. I was hoping to have this read by April 8th, but sometimes life interferes. Last night, during a stint of insomnia, I picked up this book at page 111 and did not stop until this book was complete. This book was everything I hoped it would be; love, found family, courage, shared trauma (different experiences), empathy, and so much more …
I do not always love POV stories, but the flow between Jax and Aly happened so organically that I felt the story would not have progressed without it. Through this storytelling, we were able to experience what Jax and Aly were experiencing in real time. Every encounter, every prank, and every kismet moment seamlessly flowed together to create a love story that I would consider to be on par with Nicholas Sparks.
Moments in this book had me reminiscing on my own childhood; reminding me of those few moments I would catch my grandfather kissing my grandmother on the cheek in passing. I knew at such a young age that I hoped to experience a love like what they had someday. The story of Nonno Steven and Nonna Grace reminded me so much of the life my grandparents built, and what they hoped their own children and grandchildren would achieve. This book brought me back to a sense of home that I didn’t realize I had been missing.
It is crazy to think that the knowledge that one sweet little grandmother had would one day have the ability to impact the fate of two adults from different sides of the United States. If you want an organic love story, that occurs naturally even though it is clearly destined by fate … this book is a perfect example of one.
I do not always love POV stories, but the flow between Jax and Aly happened so organically that I felt the story would not have progressed without it. Through this storytelling, we were able to experience what Jax and Aly were experiencing in real time. Every encounter, every prank, and every kismet moment seamlessly flowed together to create a love story that I would consider to be on par with Nicholas Sparks.
Moments in this book had me reminiscing on my own childhood; reminding me of those few moments I would catch my grandfather kissing my grandmother on the cheek in passing. I knew at such a young age that I hoped to experience a love like what they had someday. The story of Nonno Steven and Nonna Grace reminded me so much of the life my grandparents built, and what they hoped their own children and grandchildren would achieve. This book brought me back to a sense of home that I didn’t realize I had been missing.
It is crazy to think that the knowledge that one sweet little grandmother had would one day have the ability to impact the fate of two adults from different sides of the United States. If you want an organic love story, that occurs naturally even though it is clearly destined by fate … this book is a perfect example of one.
April 3, 2025
3.75⭐️
Pretty good for a debut romance. It was really cute and made me smile and laugh the whole time
Could’ve done without the miscommunication third act break up tho
Pretty good for a debut romance. It was really cute and made me smile and laugh the whole time
Could’ve done without the miscommunication third act break up tho
April 11, 2024
5⭐️
2🌶️
Favorite quote:
“There’s just something about him that intrigues me. It’s like he’s been lying dormant for years and something inside of him is starting to awaken. Basically, Jax is a hibernating bear and I really, really want to poke the bear.”
Rom Com
Grumpy/Sunshine
Ex-Military MMC
Slow Burn
Found Family
Lots of Banter
Book 1 of the Starboard Beach Series
The first thing that came to my mind when I finished When Our Stars Aligned is the song Invisible String by Taylor Swift. Tracy did a great job leaving little nuggets of info about how they were connected, bringing it all together in the end. I have zero complaints and can’t wait to get to know the rest of the friends a little bit better. This book is fast paced, full of banter, and so many laughs. There are some serious parts that made me tear up. I loved Jax and Aly, they brought out the best in each other. There was so much tension and angst between them. Aly and Jax are both closed off to others but slowly open up to each other and their friends. If you are like me and always wanting more then you will be happy with the TWO bonus epilogues. When Our Stars Aligned is a dual POV that is super sweet, has a little drama (that isn’t overwhelming), and burns slow and low. I am officially a Tracy McJames fan and can’t wait for more!
2🌶️
Favorite quote:
“There’s just something about him that intrigues me. It’s like he’s been lying dormant for years and something inside of him is starting to awaken. Basically, Jax is a hibernating bear and I really, really want to poke the bear.”
Rom Com
Grumpy/Sunshine
Ex-Military MMC
Slow Burn
Found Family
Lots of Banter
Book 1 of the Starboard Beach Series
The first thing that came to my mind when I finished When Our Stars Aligned is the song Invisible String by Taylor Swift. Tracy did a great job leaving little nuggets of info about how they were connected, bringing it all together in the end. I have zero complaints and can’t wait to get to know the rest of the friends a little bit better. This book is fast paced, full of banter, and so many laughs. There are some serious parts that made me tear up. I loved Jax and Aly, they brought out the best in each other. There was so much tension and angst between them. Aly and Jax are both closed off to others but slowly open up to each other and their friends. If you are like me and always wanting more then you will be happy with the TWO bonus epilogues. When Our Stars Aligned is a dual POV that is super sweet, has a little drama (that isn’t overwhelming), and burns slow and low. I am officially a Tracy McJames fan and can’t wait for more!
August 31, 2024
🚫 Why I Had to DNF *When Our Stars Aligned* 🚫
About 25% in, I had to close the book and admit defeat. The severe language and crude humor were just too much for me. Instead of diving into character depth or plot, I was bombarded with content that felt more like a late-night comedy show gone wrong.
Content Warning (25% in)
Sexual Content: There’s a closed door scene, but the real showstopper was the over-the-top crudeness. Discussions about a giant penis and a game with penis-shaped balloons left me feeling like I’d accidentally walked into a frat party.
Profanity: The language was so heavy, it felt like it was lifting weights. At just 25% in, the book includes:
- 1 use of "A-hole"
- 8 uses of "Ass"
- 3 uses of "Bullsh**"
- 1 use of "Damn"
- 2 F-bombs
- 7 uses of "Hell"
- 14 uses of "Sh**"
If you enjoy humor that borders on the outrageous and don’t mind a barrage of explicit language, you might find this book entertaining. For me, it was a case of “too much too soon.” If you’re sensitive to such content, you might want to steer clear.
Star rating: 1/5 stars. The severe language and crude content overshadowed any potential character or plot development and enjoyable reading experience, making it a poor fit for those sensitive to explicit content.
About 25% in, I had to close the book and admit defeat. The severe language and crude humor were just too much for me. Instead of diving into character depth or plot, I was bombarded with content that felt more like a late-night comedy show gone wrong.
Content Warning (25% in)
Sexual Content: There’s a closed door scene, but the real showstopper was the over-the-top crudeness. Discussions about a giant penis and a game with penis-shaped balloons left me feeling like I’d accidentally walked into a frat party.
Profanity: The language was so heavy, it felt like it was lifting weights. At just 25% in, the book includes:
- 1 use of "A-hole"
- 8 uses of "Ass"
- 3 uses of "Bullsh**"
- 1 use of "Damn"
- 2 F-bombs
- 7 uses of "Hell"
- 14 uses of "Sh**"
If you enjoy humor that borders on the outrageous and don’t mind a barrage of explicit language, you might find this book entertaining. For me, it was a case of “too much too soon.” If you’re sensitive to such content, you might want to steer clear.
Star rating: 1/5 stars. The severe language and crude content overshadowed any potential character or plot development and enjoyable reading experience, making it a poor fit for those sensitive to explicit content.
March 1, 2024
What do you get with a runaway bride and a broken trust Navy man? A whirlwind love with lots of turns, and an unexpected meddler trying to bring these two’s destiny together. 💫
I went into this book a little blind, but throughly enjoyed reading it. It’s a slow burn and easy to read. Not too graphic, but has some good spice once you get there. The story line is cute and keeps you on your toes. I didn’t expect the ending to come together the way it did. There is a third act break up 🫣 but ends with a happily ever after ❤️
Aly and Jax have more in common than they know, and even though they both feel they are throughly broken beyond repair, destiny has different plans in store. Their paths apart made them into who they are and even though it was unconventional for them it still lead them to each other in the end.
I went into this book a little blind, but throughly enjoyed reading it. It’s a slow burn and easy to read. Not too graphic, but has some good spice once you get there. The story line is cute and keeps you on your toes. I didn’t expect the ending to come together the way it did. There is a third act break up 🫣 but ends with a happily ever after ❤️
Aly and Jax have more in common than they know, and even though they both feel they are throughly broken beyond repair, destiny has different plans in store. Their paths apart made them into who they are and even though it was unconventional for them it still lead them to each other in the end.
March 11, 2026
Sometimes fate takes fifteen years… and thousands of miles to finally bring two people together.
Jax’s been doing just fine on his own, living life on autopilot after his time in the Navy…When his gram told him in her last hours that she’d always known the girl he was supposed to be with, he figured it was the meds talking. Then the new girl across the hall crashed his bachelor lifestyle and made him think twice. Now all he can think about is the leggy, mischievous, and sweet woman from Georgia who’s gotten under his skin.
All Aly ever wanted in life was to love and be loved…Leaving her hometown to move cross-country and start over in her thirties should feel terrifying, but it’s honestly liberating. From losing her found family to leaving a man who kept her in an emotional pressure cooker, she’s come to terms that the only love she’ll find is within her and she’s fine with that. Until I meet the one guy who makes me want to break my vow.
Too bad he’s sworn off relationships entirely.
Tropes: Rom-com, Grumpy-Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Ex-military MMC, Slow Burn, Found Family, Dual POV, He falls first, HEA, Fated Mates, Neglected FMC, Mistaken Identities, Lots of Banter
When Our Stars Aligned is the 1st book in the Starboard Beach Series by Tracy McJames.
I just loved this book, it was stunning. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Nonna Grace/Gram. She made the perfect matchmaker.
Tracy did an outstanding job with the banter in this book; it was just epic. I was laughing out loud when Jax was out of his mind on pain meds thinking that he was missing a very important body part. God, that was just too much.
Aly is the one who likes to try and keep it together in the moment and she’s so very real and the day after the med event, Aly did laugh about it, and she should have because it was just hysterical. And I love the way Aly would go out of her way to try and annoy Jax.
Aly is a stunning FMC. I just fell in love with her and the way her brain worked. I will never forget the fish poop scene and the male stripper conversations with Jax, those are ones that I am never going to forget in a million years. Aly has this vibrant personality, she has this “it’s just a chapter of my life and the stories just going to get better from here” kind of motto. I mean holy moly that entire relationship with her ex was such an inelegant experience and still Aly didn’t let it change her, didn’t let it change her soul, didn’t let her change any part of her.
Jax is such a strong character. And one of the things that I loved about this book was getting the chance to watch him grow as a character, in the beginning he really was this butt head. But we get to see over the course of the book that there are times that the right person really can show you that the days really do get easier, and if you find that the spatula do the job, then you go on to potato masher.
I’m going to say it here, I just couldn’t help myself, that entire kitchen scene was so hilarious. And I am so happy that Jax found his smile again. Between his naval tour/injury that occurred during his tour and his really not so fun ex-wife (and it’s is so not cool to do that to any man for any reason), Jax truly deserved the sky and the best.
I really like that even though Tracy managed to focus on the relationship between Jax and Aly, even though the relationship is spice heavy. I liked that Tracy managed to focus on the dynamic and relationship between Aly and Jax and even all the secondary characters. I loved the romance between Aly and Jax but I was living for the entire dynamic between Jax, Aly and their entire friend group, that friendship was simply stunning. And when they entire group was together, they were just hilarious. I just loved it so much.
I have to say that I highly recommend this book. I really enjoyed this read and I am sure you’ll agree after you finish reading it yourself.
Favorite quote:
“There’s just something about him that intrigues me. It’s like he’s been lying dormant for years and something inside of him is starting to awaken. Basically, Jax is a hibernating bear and I really, really want to poke the bear.”
Jax’s been doing just fine on his own, living life on autopilot after his time in the Navy…When his gram told him in her last hours that she’d always known the girl he was supposed to be with, he figured it was the meds talking. Then the new girl across the hall crashed his bachelor lifestyle and made him think twice. Now all he can think about is the leggy, mischievous, and sweet woman from Georgia who’s gotten under his skin.
All Aly ever wanted in life was to love and be loved…Leaving her hometown to move cross-country and start over in her thirties should feel terrifying, but it’s honestly liberating. From losing her found family to leaving a man who kept her in an emotional pressure cooker, she’s come to terms that the only love she’ll find is within her and she’s fine with that. Until I meet the one guy who makes me want to break my vow.
Too bad he’s sworn off relationships entirely.
Tropes: Rom-com, Grumpy-Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Ex-military MMC, Slow Burn, Found Family, Dual POV, He falls first, HEA, Fated Mates, Neglected FMC, Mistaken Identities, Lots of Banter
When Our Stars Aligned is the 1st book in the Starboard Beach Series by Tracy McJames.
I just loved this book, it was stunning. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Nonna Grace/Gram. She made the perfect matchmaker.
Tracy did an outstanding job with the banter in this book; it was just epic. I was laughing out loud when Jax was out of his mind on pain meds thinking that he was missing a very important body part. God, that was just too much.
Aly is the one who likes to try and keep it together in the moment and she’s so very real and the day after the med event, Aly did laugh about it, and she should have because it was just hysterical. And I love the way Aly would go out of her way to try and annoy Jax.
Aly is a stunning FMC. I just fell in love with her and the way her brain worked. I will never forget the fish poop scene and the male stripper conversations with Jax, those are ones that I am never going to forget in a million years. Aly has this vibrant personality, she has this “it’s just a chapter of my life and the stories just going to get better from here” kind of motto. I mean holy moly that entire relationship with her ex was such an inelegant experience and still Aly didn’t let it change her, didn’t let it change her soul, didn’t let her change any part of her.
Jax is such a strong character. And one of the things that I loved about this book was getting the chance to watch him grow as a character, in the beginning he really was this butt head. But we get to see over the course of the book that there are times that the right person really can show you that the days really do get easier, and if you find that the spatula do the job, then you go on to potato masher.
I’m going to say it here, I just couldn’t help myself, that entire kitchen scene was so hilarious. And I am so happy that Jax found his smile again. Between his naval tour/injury that occurred during his tour and his really not so fun ex-wife (and it’s is so not cool to do that to any man for any reason), Jax truly deserved the sky and the best.
I really like that even though Tracy managed to focus on the relationship between Jax and Aly, even though the relationship is spice heavy. I liked that Tracy managed to focus on the dynamic and relationship between Aly and Jax and even all the secondary characters. I loved the romance between Aly and Jax but I was living for the entire dynamic between Jax, Aly and their entire friend group, that friendship was simply stunning. And when they entire group was together, they were just hilarious. I just loved it so much.
I have to say that I highly recommend this book. I really enjoyed this read and I am sure you’ll agree after you finish reading it yourself.
Favorite quote:
“There’s just something about him that intrigues me. It’s like he’s been lying dormant for years and something inside of him is starting to awaken. Basically, Jax is a hibernating bear and I really, really want to poke the bear.”
April 8, 2024
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! “When Our Stars Aligned” releases April 10, 2024!
This is by far one of, if not the, cutest love stories I’ve ever read!
When Aly Winters accepts a year-long teaching position across the country, she does so as a way to escape a nasty ex. Jax Parker has been coasting through life in a hazed out blur of one night stands with no desire to change. Neither of them saw the other one coming, and they certainly never dreamed that both their pasts and their futures would be so closely entwined.
Okay, listen, I *need* you to go read this book. Immediately. I read this whole thing in two days, and it would have taken me less time if life hadn’t been so demanding of my attention. Contemporary romance can be extremely hit or miss for me, and I had less than 0 desire to put this one down. That’s how good it is.
I don’t know whether to start with the humor or the dynamic between our MCs, so I’ll just do both at once. The lighthearted moments in this book, particularly those between our MCs, had me legitimately laughing out loud throughout the entirety of the story. Aly is sweet, she’s mischievous, and she’s got a delightful amount of sass without being as drily snarky as some FMCs can be (and we love those ones, too! It was just a nice change of pace). Jax is the absolute embodiment of tall, dark, and broody without being a complete tool. The dynamic between the two is electric, and you can feel it from their first encounter; it’s just got this pull to it that goes beyond just a physical attraction. While each of them has their own damage and drama, they both handle it like adults, which is also a nice change of pace from some of the angst-filled, college-aged romances. Again, no shade to those dynamics, but it was really fun to see two MCs who act like the grownups they are. They’re in their early 30’s, and it shows in how they interact with the world.
One of my other favorite things about this book was the supporting cast. Our side characters are all incredibly fun, interesting people with individual personalities and lives, and I want more books about them. I want to know how their lives play out after this story, what it was like for them to get to that point, all of the things because they’re just really enjoyable characters to read about. They’re good friends to our MCs and they add just the right amount of non-relationship pizazz to a really sweet love story.
In terms of plot, the focus here is 100% the love story. Which makes sense, since this is a romance novel, but what I mean by that is that there really is no larger, outside plot to distract from that buildup. *And it didn’t need one.* While there is some background drama pertaining to our respective MCs’ histories, and a small bit of that does become directly involved in the overall storyline, the rest of it is solely romance. In terms of spice, there’s only one incredibly brief scene (more like a paragraph), so if you’re looking for something that packs direct heat, this isn’t the book you’re looking for. If you’re aiming more for tension, build up, and warm fuzzies, this is going to be your jam.
Overall, this is an amazing book, and I’m so glad I got to read it. It’s definitely going to make my recommendations list, and it’ll most certainly end up in the ‘to be re-read’ pile. It’s lighthearted, humorous, and sweet with just the right dose of found family dynamics and growing through your traumas. 10/10, as soon as I finished I wanted to read it again. If you in any way like contemporary romance, you need to check this one out.
This is by far one of, if not the, cutest love stories I’ve ever read!
When Aly Winters accepts a year-long teaching position across the country, she does so as a way to escape a nasty ex. Jax Parker has been coasting through life in a hazed out blur of one night stands with no desire to change. Neither of them saw the other one coming, and they certainly never dreamed that both their pasts and their futures would be so closely entwined.
Okay, listen, I *need* you to go read this book. Immediately. I read this whole thing in two days, and it would have taken me less time if life hadn’t been so demanding of my attention. Contemporary romance can be extremely hit or miss for me, and I had less than 0 desire to put this one down. That’s how good it is.
I don’t know whether to start with the humor or the dynamic between our MCs, so I’ll just do both at once. The lighthearted moments in this book, particularly those between our MCs, had me legitimately laughing out loud throughout the entirety of the story. Aly is sweet, she’s mischievous, and she’s got a delightful amount of sass without being as drily snarky as some FMCs can be (and we love those ones, too! It was just a nice change of pace). Jax is the absolute embodiment of tall, dark, and broody without being a complete tool. The dynamic between the two is electric, and you can feel it from their first encounter; it’s just got this pull to it that goes beyond just a physical attraction. While each of them has their own damage and drama, they both handle it like adults, which is also a nice change of pace from some of the angst-filled, college-aged romances. Again, no shade to those dynamics, but it was really fun to see two MCs who act like the grownups they are. They’re in their early 30’s, and it shows in how they interact with the world.
One of my other favorite things about this book was the supporting cast. Our side characters are all incredibly fun, interesting people with individual personalities and lives, and I want more books about them. I want to know how their lives play out after this story, what it was like for them to get to that point, all of the things because they’re just really enjoyable characters to read about. They’re good friends to our MCs and they add just the right amount of non-relationship pizazz to a really sweet love story.
In terms of plot, the focus here is 100% the love story. Which makes sense, since this is a romance novel, but what I mean by that is that there really is no larger, outside plot to distract from that buildup. *And it didn’t need one.* While there is some background drama pertaining to our respective MCs’ histories, and a small bit of that does become directly involved in the overall storyline, the rest of it is solely romance. In terms of spice, there’s only one incredibly brief scene (more like a paragraph), so if you’re looking for something that packs direct heat, this isn’t the book you’re looking for. If you’re aiming more for tension, build up, and warm fuzzies, this is going to be your jam.
Overall, this is an amazing book, and I’m so glad I got to read it. It’s definitely going to make my recommendations list, and it’ll most certainly end up in the ‘to be re-read’ pile. It’s lighthearted, humorous, and sweet with just the right dose of found family dynamics and growing through your traumas. 10/10, as soon as I finished I wanted to read it again. If you in any way like contemporary romance, you need to check this one out.
March 14, 2024
First, I just love a grumpy, broody, tattooed ex-military male main character. Plus, the height thing. Thank you, Tracy for not only making Jax tall, but also giving Aly a decent stature - I’m getting a little tired of couples where the gal is always 5 feet zero (what’s the draw to a huge guy with a tiny woman, anyway?). Hello, that gets boring after a while and I find it hard to relate (when I’m 5’10’’.) Additionally, when the guys called her “legs”, I could relate even more (a nickname I might have been called a time or two.)
But um…HELLO: Jax’s transformation, or should we call it his return to his truer self? I love it when the broody MMC’s world gets turned upside down on a dime (cue the meet-cute and the “dropped” beer), which causes that hard outer shell to completely shatter (like that beer bottle), only to reveal a soft, doughy, cinnamon roll center. Umm, yes, please! And yummy! (Great foreshadowing btw, Tracy.)
Notable Quotables: (just a little hook)
“I go to bed thinking of her; I wake up thinking of her. I wonder about how her day was and what she had for lunch. She’s not only moved into my home, but she’s moved into my mind as well.” (Nope. Jax never really stood a chance!)
I am also a huge fan of a good, well-told slow burn. Way to build the tension and keep us turning pages, Tracy! It was so so good. And even though I skipped over the “intimate” scene (thanks for boxing it in, so those of us who’d rather avoid it could have that option), the kisses were fantastic! I tracked with these two perfect-for-each-other characters the entire rest of the book, and just loved their chemistry!!!
Their connection was undeniable, and I just adored the golden thread that wove through their story, over the course of 15 years, tying them together. The points of intersection with his cousins (her “sisters”), Gran, and the recipes. Very creative and it added an extra layer that made their story that much more special. (Hope I didn’t reveal too much (insert shush-finger emoji)!)
If I hadn’t read it somewhere, I would have never thought this was a debut novel. I was pleasantly surprised by the maturity in the writing and the nuances/plot surprises that were very well thought out. Stellar job, Tracy. I give this one my high recommendation, and I can’t wait to see what stars you align next!
But um…HELLO: Jax’s transformation, or should we call it his return to his truer self? I love it when the broody MMC’s world gets turned upside down on a dime (cue the meet-cute and the “dropped” beer), which causes that hard outer shell to completely shatter (like that beer bottle), only to reveal a soft, doughy, cinnamon roll center. Umm, yes, please! And yummy! (Great foreshadowing btw, Tracy.)
Notable Quotables: (just a little hook)
“I go to bed thinking of her; I wake up thinking of her. I wonder about how her day was and what she had for lunch. She’s not only moved into my home, but she’s moved into my mind as well.” (Nope. Jax never really stood a chance!)
I am also a huge fan of a good, well-told slow burn. Way to build the tension and keep us turning pages, Tracy! It was so so good. And even though I skipped over the “intimate” scene (thanks for boxing it in, so those of us who’d rather avoid it could have that option), the kisses were fantastic! I tracked with these two perfect-for-each-other characters the entire rest of the book, and just loved their chemistry!!!
Their connection was undeniable, and I just adored the golden thread that wove through their story, over the course of 15 years, tying them together. The points of intersection with his cousins (her “sisters”), Gran, and the recipes. Very creative and it added an extra layer that made their story that much more special. (Hope I didn’t reveal too much (insert shush-finger emoji)!)
If I hadn’t read it somewhere, I would have never thought this was a debut novel. I was pleasantly surprised by the maturity in the writing and the nuances/plot surprises that were very well thought out. Stellar job, Tracy. I give this one my high recommendation, and I can’t wait to see what stars you align next!
March 20, 2024
This is what happens when grandma steps in to give a little push.
When Our Stars Aligned by Tracy McJames is the first in the Starboard Beach Series and is filled with unwavering love from different angles. When Aly, a loving friend of the family, ends up living next to Jax, the grumpy standoffish guy, they don’t quite hit it off. But somehow, things might just change since she is the girl Jax’s grandma has always known would be his perfect match and sweetie on her death bed to bring them together, even in death. Will her wish be fulfilled or will it all be in vain since the two have completely worn off love?
At first I didn’t know if I was going to get into this just based on the blurb. But after the first chapter, I was hooked. The writing is so fun, intense when it needs to be, a bit steamy too, and has a huge personality. I really enjoyed Aly and Jax’s story! I Wouldnt it be the best to have someone like Gram around to guide all of us to our perfect matches?
The balance between the mystery of their backgrounds and the apprehensive willingness to interact with each other is awesome. I loved that there was so much happening with the other characters as well. It definitely sets up the space for other books in the series and I’d love to see some of the other buildingmates come together.
The only thing that bothered me was how long it took for things to be revealed. But that could’ve just been me as the outside observer wishing they knew what was going on. Things came about in the time they needed to. This was such a cute yet intense story! Even with the tough topics that came up like neglect, military trauma, death, fear, and more, they did not overtake the story and were expressed in a creative way that still pushed the story forward.
If you love a good swore of love but meant to be story, then this is for you. I recommend to those who enjoy some familial problems and military men.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of When Our Stars Align from Tracy McJames
When Our Stars Aligned by Tracy McJames is the first in the Starboard Beach Series and is filled with unwavering love from different angles. When Aly, a loving friend of the family, ends up living next to Jax, the grumpy standoffish guy, they don’t quite hit it off. But somehow, things might just change since she is the girl Jax’s grandma has always known would be his perfect match and sweetie on her death bed to bring them together, even in death. Will her wish be fulfilled or will it all be in vain since the two have completely worn off love?
At first I didn’t know if I was going to get into this just based on the blurb. But after the first chapter, I was hooked. The writing is so fun, intense when it needs to be, a bit steamy too, and has a huge personality. I really enjoyed Aly and Jax’s story! I Wouldnt it be the best to have someone like Gram around to guide all of us to our perfect matches?
The balance between the mystery of their backgrounds and the apprehensive willingness to interact with each other is awesome. I loved that there was so much happening with the other characters as well. It definitely sets up the space for other books in the series and I’d love to see some of the other buildingmates come together.
The only thing that bothered me was how long it took for things to be revealed. But that could’ve just been me as the outside observer wishing they knew what was going on. Things came about in the time they needed to. This was such a cute yet intense story! Even with the tough topics that came up like neglect, military trauma, death, fear, and more, they did not overtake the story and were expressed in a creative way that still pushed the story forward.
If you love a good swore of love but meant to be story, then this is for you. I recommend to those who enjoy some familial problems and military men.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of When Our Stars Align from Tracy McJames
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