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Ready #4

Ready or Not

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From the moment he moved in...
It was hate at first sight.


As a plant-loving homeowner, I take particular pride in my gardens. So, when I came home to find several of my flower beds trampled by my new next door neighbor, sparks flew.

And not in the sexy sort of way.

Jackson Reid was everything I hate in a man. He’s rude and overbearing — and did I mention he’s a lawyer?

He’s also a single dad and soon I began to see, behind all that arrogance, he’s also incredibly patient and caring. In fact, many of the things I hated about him melt away and I’m left, not just liking him.

I think I might be falling for him too.

But, like most adult relationships, we both came with a past and Jackson’s baggage may destroy more than our budding love affair if we’re not careful.

Being neighborly just got a whole lot more complicated...

286 pages, Unknown Binding

First published November 27, 2014

118 people are currently reading
2094 people want to read

About the author

J.L. Berg

35 books2,266 followers
J.L. Berg is the USA Today bestselling author of the Ready series, the Walls duet and the Lost & Found series. She is a California native living in the beautiful state of historic Virginia. Married to her high school sweetheart, they have two beautiful girls that drive them batty on a daily basis. When she's not writing, you will find her cuddled up, watching a movie with her family, obsessing over minions or devouring anything chocolate! J.L. Berg is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, LLC.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
Profile Image for ~ Becs ~.
677 reviews2,164 followers
June 28, 2015
Oh, God! I really wanted to love this one. I adore the author and really liked the characters but this kind of dragged a little for me, despite Liv, the heroine, being as close to me in writing as I'm ever likely to see!

This has been a fabulous series and I've loved and still love all the characters and really did adore Liv and Jackson but I just found my attention drifting a little with the story which seemed far slower and quite a lot less intense than the previous books in this series.

I don't know if it was just me or the wrong book at the wrong time but I just didn't love it as much as the others. I'm still a mega JL Berg fan though and will still continue to read her books.

3 stars

Profile Image for Lyndy Ann ♫.
672 reviews
April 11, 2016
Ready or Not is the fourth book in the Ready series this is Liv's story, Liv is Mia's friend from Ready for You.

Liv get's a possible new patient 11 year old Noah who has a sexy dad Jackson but Liv has a rule no dating a patients dad even though it is lust at first sight for them both.

When Liv goes home and see her flower beds have been trampled she is furious and goes next door to give her new neighbour a piece of her mind but when the door opens it is Jackson standing there so their relationship turns sour and here come the practical jokes until one day Jackson has had enough and kisses Liv and their relationship soon hots up.

Liv is independent and can be stubborn Jackson is big hearted and caring and Noah is super cute. Loved getting all the gang together and I loved the conference call between the gang near the end that made me LOL especially Leah and Declan.

Only reason I took 1 star away is what happened between Liv and her dad and what happened to Noah was very predictable and it was not a surprise but overall a great romance with everything you need for a great story.

Profile Image for Kara.
1,417 reviews25 followers
October 20, 2015
I love a great neighbors love story.
Profile Image for Dali.
2,089 reviews592 followers
December 31, 2014
An incredibly sweet, sexy and endearing story that will make you swoon while your eReader melts with the attraction that flows between the characters.

After her parents distanced themselves because of differences in opinion regarding Liv’s goals, she has worked hard at making a good and happy life for herself. She’s made a family of her own with her friends and is content having causal relationships.

Jackson Reid is a hardworking, single father whose most important priority is his son Noah. He wants normal and stable. But what he gets when he moves into his dearly departed grandmother’s house is the witty and unconventionally alluring Liv.

Ready or Not, their lives are about to change when Liv and Jackson find themselves being their own neighbors from hell battling each other. But they soon find out that sweet is better.
“Somewhere along the way, between our fighting and battles, I’d begun to fall for my crazy neighbor.”

I completely fell for Jackson’s southern charm and alpha vibe. His love for Noah and the fact that despite being left by his fiancée when Noah was a baby, was resolute to be everything his son needed only made him more endearing. He’s patience, perceptiveness and persistence made him sexier.
“I wanted to crawl inside her and brand my name on her heart, making a permanent reminder that I’d been here and I was never leaving.”

Behind the colorful tattoo and hippie girl exterior lay a very kindhearted woman who knew what she wanted and fiercely fought for it.
“I guessed that was what taking a leap of faith was—risking oneself in hopes of gaining something better. I turned toward the door and headed downstairs. I was ready for Jackson. I was ready to leap.”

I loved their attraction. It made me smile, laugh, fan myself. Sci-fi porn? Erotic poetry?
“My primal need to claim and make her mine raged on as I buried myself into my chosen mate, over and over, feeling like my soul was being branded by her just as strongly.”

I appreciated that even with insecurities and doubts, Liv and Jackson worked through their concerns communicating, which made for very little angst. That doesn’t mean there weren’t any speed bumps in their road to their sexy happy ever after.
“You need to trust us… What do you feel?”
“Tenderness, warmth…desire,”
she answered.
“Go deeper,” I instructed before kissing her again. I gave her everything in that kiss—my heart, soul, and future. When I pulled back, she was smiling. “Happiness…pink flamingos…love.”

I enjoyed very much reading about past characters. They added warmth and support as well as a lot of humor to the story.

This is book 4 in the Ready series, but can be read as a standalone. It’s told from both points of view. Other spoilery stats: No cheating. No triangle. HEA.

Buy link -> http://amzn.to/1x1V7Iv

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July 11, 2016
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I really enjoy this book, Jackson was a great hero and I love how he was with his son Noah. In the start of the book how Jackson and Liv found out that they where neighbors it was really funny she was so uptight she needed whatever she got from him. He was really trying to fight his feelings for Liv because of what his ex-girlfriend did to him and his son and I got that. But when he figured out that he couldn't fight his feelings for Liv he fell hard for her and put his all in it.

For most of the book Liv was pushing Jackson away when it got too tough and he was always the one to bring them together again. That just annoyed me a lot she was the one being stupid so she should be the one to fix it.

Liv forgave her father too easy it was eight years since she had seen him or talk to him and the only reason he contacted her was for his reelection. For me his explanation for why he was the way he was is not good enough it felt unfinished. He just said that he was dropping out of the race and that was that she forgave him. After all he did to her she let him walk her down the aisle nope not me I would definitely not do that on my special day not after what he did. Maybe later not that day it was way to soon for me.

As for Jackson's ex was she really needed in this book I guess so at least Jackson got his closure and he now knows why she left. She was really a awful person and she got what she deserves.

{MY LIKE SCALE}
description
Romance: 5/5 (I LOVED THEM TOGETHER)
Drama: 4/5 (NOT MUCH A LITTLE THAT DIDN'T ANNOY ME)
Cover: 5/5 (SWEET COVER)
Liv: 4/5 (I LIKE HER BUT SHE HAD HER ANNOYING MOMENT TO)
Jackson: 5/5 (A GREAT HERO ONE OF MY FAVORITES)
Writings: 5/5 (GREAT STORY)
Humour: 4/5 (GOOD ENOUGH)
Hotness: 5/5 (JUST RIGHT)
HEA:
Profile Image for Mara De Guzman.
455 reviews
February 24, 2015
★★★★★
5 Oreo Milkshake Stars
ARC received for an honest review

J.L. Berg did it for me again and as much as I loved the first books in the Ready series (Books 2 & 3 because I haven't read 1 yet but no worries because I have it and I'm just scared to cry like a baby when I read it), Ready or Not is a refreshing and somehow "lighter" reading experience for me.

A single parent, Jackson Reid and his son Noah just moved in right next door to Olivia Prescott's house. Olivia, the quirky, fun best friend of Mia. If you've read the series, Mia is from book 3. But I digress. The house next door used to belong to Jackson's grandmother who Liv considered a very good friend, like family, too. The first encounter between Jackson and Liv had me cracking me up already. Both are stubborn and their squabbles were too entertaining to read. Sure, the pranks they pull with each other are childish but that just added to their appeal. For me, at least.

Honestly, I was already anticipating heartbreaking twists and turns from Jackson and Liv. It's like for every laugh I let out, I'm thinking "God, this is going to be bad for me if they start spilling secrets and their secrets aren't pretty!". All the worrying should have distracted me but I'm happy to say that Jackson, Liv, and the rest of the gang managed to entertain me well with their silliness, mushiness, and plain awesomeness. Lots of -ness in that.



Ready or Not is tamer than the first 3 books when it comes to leaving me an emotional mess. I loved it no less! I've read all J.L. Berg's books except for When You're Ready and I think that's safe enough for me to say that this author knows how to pull my heartstrings. She always have something new to offer in her characters and her stories. She can write sweet and angry, funny and heartbreaking, cute and ugly and she mix everything so well in each book. Jackson and Liv's story is more on the funny, adorable and less-drama side. That less-drama part, however, isn't that superficial. It's just the perfect touch of drama to test their relationship and strengthen what feelings they have for each other.



I love the comfort of their relationship. How they started out as stubborn neighbors and then harmless friends and into something more romantic. They each have their own struggles but damn Jackson is the kind of man who knows what he wants and makes sure he gets what he wants. HOT MAN, he is. I love the wonderful writing of the author. Everything flowed easily, I kept reading and before I knew it... I'm almost finished. I don't want it to end and I really want more of their story, yes especially Jackson's son, Noah.

Ready or Not is a beautiful story of a single dad raising a son, a single woman who is independent, eccentric, smart, a son who loves his dad but craves a mom, together they balance and fill each other's lives with the love and affection that they have for each other.

Stars: 5 stars
Recommended to: Single parents, especially dads, don't lose hope. Love is anywhere and everywhere! And everyone looking for a good romance.
POV: First person. Dual POV.
Series: Yes. Interconnecting characters.
Extra Comment: The whole Ready couples are ever present in this book and they are as crazy fun as ever!
Profile Image for Kim.
2,857 reviews178 followers
November 23, 2014
She might be the girl next door, but she was definitely not my girl next door. I needed normal and Liv with the vibrant tattoo and crazy flower beds seemed to be anything but.

We met Liv in Ready for You as she is Mia's feisty, sassy friend. She meets Jackson, a newly relocated bachelor when he brings his son, Noah into her counseling office. But she finds out later that they are also her new neighbors. After a couple of neighborly squabbles and incidents, full out turf war is waged.

Jackson's life was free of distractions and a bit boring until he began sparring with Liv. He's a single dad and a lawyer and starting over in a new town. He is sexy, funny, sweet and a bit bossy. I adored him and loved his devotion to his tween son He is one of those guys not afraid of love and commitment, and was willing to fight for it.

Liv is a free spirit, hippie-like vegetarian with no desire to settle down. She left her life that was controlled by others to do what she had a passion for. She has trust and abandonment issues, so has big walls up and does not make it easy to get close to her.

Their interactions were initially snarky and fiery. And I loved their humor and constant attempts to one up the other. They were different in so many ways, yet also compatible. And as their feelings began to change, it was funny to see them trying to figure out how to handle it.

Olivia Prescott was mine--forever. Convincing my free-spirited hippie girl that she was taken for good might be challenging.

And once they channeled all that energy into trying to date versus outwitting the other, they fit together well. Most of the drama was not really intrinsic to their relationship except for her fear of intimacy. The majority of strife in their lives came from outside sources they needed to deal with.

This brought back the couples from the other books in this series Clare and Logan (When You're Ready), Leah and Declan (Never Been Ready), Mia and Garrett (Ready for You) as well as their offspring. I love this sarcastic, protective loving set of friends who act as a family unit. I enjoyed the addition of Jackson's tween son, Noah and his developing relationship with Liv. That was also an integral part of their story. It was told in both Liv and Jackson's points of view allowing us full access to their thoughts, feelings, and fears.

This was a sweet, funny, engaging read about opening up, finding your passion, taking risks, following your dreams and the importance of being surrounded by those you love. It supports the theory that opposites do attract and sometimes end up being that elusive missing piece to the puzzle.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jesey ~ Schmexy GIrl~.
404 reviews744 followers
January 5, 2015
Ok….I’m going to say this and then *duck & hide*. This was officially my first J.L. berg book and now I’m hungry for MORE! Ready or Not can be read as a stand alone however now I find my self aching to know the other characters and read their stories as well!

This is one of those books that will have you experiencing a range of emotions. Liv and Jackson will have you hating them and then laughing at their antics two sentences later. You will cry…not ugly cry per se but you will have tears streaming down your face. You will also laugh and yell and fan yourself…yup, Ready or Not has it ALL!

Liv and Jackson could not be more opposite. Liv is a “hippie chick”, vegetarian, child counselor who wears flowy clothes, lots of bangly jewelry and has a pretty care free attitude.

“That feeds your wallet, not your soul, Jackson. Figure out the difference.”

Jackson is a single father, hot shot lawyer, and is oozing with Southern charm. He and his son Noah are starting over and he is determined to do what is right for them both…and Liv too.

“Liv was worth a thousand dates that ended at the door rather than in a bed. The longer I knew her, the more I realized that Liv was the one woman I intended to keep.”

Although they came from different backgrounds they seemed to meld so well together, even when they were out to get revenge on each other (refer to the laughing I mentioned earlier). Jackson is such a gentleman and yet he still has this little devil sitting on his shoulder making him cause trouble…pink flamingos and tubing, you’ll get it later. Liv is scared of her feelings, she doesn’t know how to do “this”, referring to relationships. They make it work, they are mature and they talk (as well as yell and get mad, they are human after all).

It wasn’t just their story that I loved. One of my favorite things about this story had to have been Noah, Jackson’s son. He is a huge part of this story and it warmed my heart with how amazing Liv was with him, she was kind and caring and offered him maternal attention he had never known. Jackson is so protective of them both it will make you want him for your own….but back off ladies, I’m claiming this man for my own!

Be sure to check out the rest of the series as well…I know I will be!!
Profile Image for Jessica.
384 reviews59 followers
dnf
July 20, 2022
DNF not because of the story, but because of the narrators. They are both sooooo soft spoken I can barely understand what they are saying. It’s honestly putting me more to sleep then anything. Maybe audiobooks aren’t for them? I would suggest sleeping podcasts or something
Profile Image for Rachel.
639 reviews38 followers
December 8, 2014
Overall rating: 5 stars!

Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Profile Image for Carra.
1,733 reviews31 followers
December 8, 2014
The short and sweet version? Loved it! Now for the rest...and I'll preface this by telling you up front that I haven't had a chance to read anything else in this series. The author does an excellent job of writing this as a standalone though, giving you enough backstory as you're reading to get a good idea of how the other characters got to where they are now.

But Ready or Not is all about Olivia and Jackson, both with their own past issues to overcome and both characters written so well that you feel a moral imperative to root for the two of them, and for everything to work out. I loved the alternating points of view since it this style of telling their story gave you so much more and made the story feel richer and more emotional.

My favorite character is easily Jackson. A single father to an absolutely awesome son (you're going to love Noah!), he's an alpha male all the way-protective, hot and sexy, a little cocky, and a whole lot of fun. He and Olivia just click together perfectly, the banter between them is great and the teasing actions before they get together make for some pretty funny scenes.

There's also some really good drama, with things from both Olivia and Jackson's pasts coming back to cause a stir. And these situations will keep you engrossed in the story, causing the pages to fly by.

A lot of sweet, a lot of funny, a good dose of drama, and you've got one fantastic read. 4.5 stars for this wonderful story!
Profile Image for Mary.
483 reviews3 followers
December 17, 2014
J. L. Berg has done it once again. I loved Liv and Jackson's story. It takes a special person to persevere on their own when they are raised with wealth and privilege and just throws it all away to become their own person and make it on their own. It takes and equally special person to be left with an infant and become a single father. He had to finish school to become a lawyer and raise his son. What happens when these 2 very special people come together? 2 very headstrong opinionated, set in their ways people embark on a whirl wind of drama, love, aggravation, heartache and even a kidnapping. If you have read the first 3 in the Ready series you will definitely want to read this one. If you haven't yet, start with the 1st When You're Ready. You can read each one alone, but you get a better understanding of all the character mentioned in this book. They each have a story and you find out how they all became a family.
Profile Image for Evette.
843 reviews61 followers
December 16, 2014
This was wonderful- funny, sweet, lots of tears and so many smiles. I heart JL HARD!
This story is what JL does best, a true modern love story.
Ready or Not is Liv, Jackson and Noah's story. A beautiful depiction of love and family, friendship and taking that chance, the one that may make or break you.
Noah is just incredible, the way he completes and helps to rebuild Liv's heart from day one. Noah and Jackson have to figure out their roles that are evolving as Liv joins their life and Noah grows older.
Incredible banter, so much fun.
Hellahot sexual tension.
Cheers to finding your happy!
So many thanks to JL for bringing everything full circle with this astounding world she has created. Declan, Logan and Garrett add a new guy to their super guy ranks ;) Their made family is beautiful. Liv, Jackson and Noah are in the best company.
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
January 14, 2015
I liked the way that this one started out, loved the low grade animosity between Jackson and Liv that turned into an all out prank war. It brought some fun into their lives, which they sorely needed. I liked how their relationship slowly built and that Noah was included in things.

I thought Jackson fit in well with the group of friends and loved how he interacted with them, especially with Declan who was always there to give him advice. I hated what Liv learned about her parents, but was glad that in the end they did the right thing.

I found my heart pounding when the drama with Noah happened. I hated that the boy had to learn what he did, but loved that both Jackson and Liv were there for him.

The ending to this one was great, it fit the couple perfectly!
Profile Image for ~Steph K~.
418 reviews149 followers
May 4, 2015
**ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review by the girls and I at www.sizzlingpages.com **







I have a lot
of book boyfriends - I'll admit it - but let me tell you, I'm throwing them all
to the side - because Jackson Reid is my perfect man.   I dare you to disagree with me, and try to find a
flaw with him, because you won't.





Jackson, a
single father to Noah, moves in next door to Liv.   From the very first day he moves in is where the adventure of their relationship
starts.   With a little
bit of a rocky start as neighbors - these two become fast friends and then something way more.





I enjoyed
watching Liv and Jackson's relationship grow.   It felt real
and authentic, and grew at a pace that was actually believable.   I definitely laughed at some of their antics
towards each other, but it all was in good fun which only brought them closer.  They were definitely perfectly made for each other.





Jackson was
just so awesome, with his sense of humor, his love for his son, his caring
gentle ways with Liv - I could gush about him for hours.   He just knew when to give Liv her space, and when
to be right at her back protecting and taking care of her.  Oh, and he was the perfect amount of bossy
when it mattered too!  



Liv has been estranged from her family the past eight years.  She wasn't living up to the standards her mom and dad had
hoped for.  So Liv broke the ties, and was living her life,
and doing what her heart wanted, and succeeding very well.  The one area where she kept closed off though, was with men, she just never let a man in to her heart, and
had no plans on it.  But, her new
neighbor and his son quickly changed that.  Liv didn't only get Jackson in this
relationship, she also got Noah, a wonderful, caring boy, who will steal your heart - who she nurtured and loved just like he was her own son.



  I absolutely
adore this series and J.L. Berg's writing style.
  She never disappoints, and her books always leaves
me feeling good and happily satisfied when I finish them.
  If you need a beautiful love story series, with
little angst, but lots of steam and great characters, than this series is
definitely for you.














Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews

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Profile Image for Pamela .
1,439 reviews78 followers
March 15, 2019


Spoiler Alert!
Spoiler Alert!


Well, I guess I’m in the minority here as I was quite disappointed with Ready or Not , book 4 in the Ready series especially since I really loved books 1 and 2.
At the beginning I really liked both Liv and Jackson, the way they both tried to one-up each other; how Jackson was struggling to be a good and loving dad to his 11-year-old son and Liv telling him that everything would fall into place as far as his kid was concerned. I do think that Liv and Jackson got together very quickly especially since Liv thought Jackson was such an annoying jerk; sexy but still a jerk. Then there’s the whole thing about Jackson telling Liv that if they’re going to start a relationship that he’s in it for the long haul, that she’s it for him and that she couldn’t date anyone else. I have to say there were moments when I thought they were both idiots. Before they got together, Jackson takes his secretary, who’s been eyeing him like candy, out a couple of times to see if he can stop thinking about Liv. Not only does he find his secretary boring, he can’t stop thinking of Liv. Seriously, you take your secretary out knowing how she feels about you and then you leave her hanging with no explanation? To me, that’s just playing with fire especially since you just joined the firm and she’s your secretary. While taking Jackson and his son to see the Chiefs practice football, one of the players asks Liz for her number and she gives it to him knowing full well she has no plans on dating him. Unfortunately, he keeps calling and leaving messages which she ignores. Then there’s Victor, the one man Liv’s been seeing for a while but is now calling it quits so she can be with Jackson.

Throughout the whole book Liv always lets it be known how strong and independent she is, that she doesn’t need anyone, that she lives her life the way she sees fit. That’s great. However, one evening Victor comes over scaring Liv as he forces her into a corner yelling how it’s not over between them. Jackson comes to the rescue, throws him down and has the police take him away. Victor never hits Liv or does any physical harm but he did scare her. However, that one incident turns her into a blubbering mess, basically a damsel in distress needing to be saved by her man. I have to agree with another reviewer that this was so over the top and just ridiculous. I get she got scared but, come on….

Liv - “My knees gave way, and my body hit the floor, trembling everywhere.”

Jackson - “Laying her down on the soft mattress, I pulled the covers over around her and bent down to kiss her cheek.”

Liv - “Jackson, don’t leave me” she murmured. “Please, just hold me”.

“I should have been braver.”


Give me a break!

When all Liv’s friends, including their husbands, all get together for dinner one night, Liv gets upset because Jackson and her friend (Declan) had been talking about her, trying to keep her safe from her father. Liv, of course, becomes very angry, basically overly dramatic in my opinion (and they had all just sat down to dinner).

“You and Declan - what’s going on?”

“It’s not important right now.”

“I want to know.” My tone was clipped and to the point. My temper began to rise, and my heart rate accelerated. “You were talking about me?”

“I don’t feel well all of a sudden. Clare, do you mind if I leave early?” I tried to plaster a smile on my best smile.

She gave me a weak smile as she began to rise out of the chair.

“Don’t bother honey, I can show myself out.”


Talk about being overly dramatic. Way to ruin someone’s dinner party. She gets so upset because Jackson just wants to keep her safe. It’s from this that she begins to think that she can’t be in this relationship with him. Again, give me a bloody break! Make up your mind. Hold me or fuck off and leave?? But just as quickly as this happens, she falls right back into his arms. By this point I’ve become tired of Liv and hope that Jackson just dumps her. This type of “angst” is common and totally stupid and unnecessary.

The whole thing with her father was ridiculous too probably because that part of the story not really delved into much. It was a blip on the screen because hell, the mother didn’t even have a role here as Liv had not seen her in years as well. It’s as though the author wanted to throw in some dramatic events to make the whole book feel so romantic and suspenseful. Did neither for me. As if the ex-boyfriend so-called “attack”, her father issues, her anger issues with Jackson wanting to take care of her wasn’t enough, the author throws in another wrench which is the appearance of Noah’s mother who left him right after giving birth to him. She kidnaps Noah and will only return him if she gets lots of money. Just as quickly as this started, it wrapped up neat and tidy within a few pages.

Seriously, this was a roller coaster of a ride which I really wish I had not taken. I’m not going to tell you to read it or skip it because again, I’m in the minority here. You may end up loving it. For me it was a total disappointment.

By the way, I’m really getting tired of books where authors peg every couple in each book in the series being so good looking, attractive and so hot. I mean, does anyone have any flaws? Does anyone not have money troubles because these people don’t. It becomes not only tiring but so unrealistic. The word “gorgeous” was scattered throughout. Everybody was “gorgeous”, “good-looking”, “beautiful”, “attractive”, etc. Heaven forbid one of them gets a zit.

“I looked around the room and watched as everyone mingled and greeted Jackson. Damn, I had good-looking friends.”

Seriously? Who the hell says that? Enough! I’m done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Bozica.
707 reviews22 followers
September 7, 2018
This is the final book in the series and I’ll miss the entire gang. This series is effortless to read and easy to get lost in the lives of the wonderful characters.

The Hippie and the Lawyer. What an odd couple but I loved them and the pranks Jackson’s and Liv played on each throughout.

I would have enjoyed an epilogue with a more forward look into their future together like we got in the other 3 books.
Profile Image for diann bryan.
535 reviews
February 12, 2021
Saving the best for last! This story was Liv’s story and what a story it was!
Jackson and Liv have a crazy fun connection from the beginning but it’s not love at first sight but that’s where the fun begins.
This series was my first experience with this Author and I listened to them all on Audible. I enjoyed all of them and would definitely recommend them!
Profile Image for J.E. Benoit.
Author 2 books34 followers
December 4, 2014
‘The Finnegans didn’t define family as a last name or bloodline. Family was being with loved ones, and everyone in this room – whether the last name was Finnegan, James, Matthews, or even Prescott, like me – was considered family.’

That. That right up there is the reason I love this series so much. J.L. Berg has created such a wonderful cast of characters, and whether they are related by blood or simply friendship they have come together to form this incredible family that loves and supports one another no matter what. I love that even though she’s branched out from the original group from the first few books that this sense of family and amazing friendship has continued and is now even bigger (and better) with the addition of Jackson and Noah! This book can be read as a standalone, but do yourself a favor and start from the beginning so you can get to know and fall in love with all of these awesome characters and go along for their fun, sweet, heartwarming and at times difficult journeys. Having read the other books in the series will only serve to enhance your reading experience as you embark on this one!

We got to know free-spirited, fun, caring Liv in Ready For You and I was excited to see her meet her match in this book. And Jackson was indeed the perfect match for her. On paper they couldn’t be more opposite but they really were exactly what the other needed. I loved when they first meet and then realize that they are neighbors (especially when Liv was sputtering mad at her new neighbors for ruining her flower bed). It was so much fun watching them try to one up the other in their silly pranks, it was all in neighborly fun but it was hard to deny the sparks that were flying between the two. Your heart will race when Jackson finally realizes that playing it safe is boring and finally makes his move on Liv, you see a little bit of his alpha side come out and it was great (“For the same reasons Don Juan, or whatever his name is, bothers me. Neither of them are good enough for you. And they aren’t me.”).

I loved how Jackson just ‘got’ Liv, he completely understood her even when she may not have understood herself. He knew just when to give her space and when to stay close. He was falling for her because of her strong will and independent nature and while he wanted to protect her from things he knew he couldn’t stifle that side of her if he wanted a relationship to work, especially since Liv wasn’t one to settle down. And Jackson was determined to convince her that this was it for him, I loved how he kept reminding her of ‘relationship perks’ and their promise that if things got rough to go back and order an Oreo milkshake and remember the good times! He was so caring and attentive, pretty much the definition of the perfect guy!

In addition to how wonderful he was with Liv, he was an even better father to Noah. Having been a single father for the past 11yrs, he always put Noah first and all of his life choices had been made with Noah’s best interest in mind. Parenting has been a central theme in this series but I liked the twist of the hero being a single father and to a tween. This lent itself to a whole host of new challenges, especially with Noah having to deal with being the new kid and starting middle school away from all of his friends. My heart went out to Jackson who was mourning the fact that his little boy was no longer his little boy and trying to learn how to relate to his son now (‘Right now, I was mourning hugs – good-night hugs, the hugs that just came from nowhere, the just because hugs, and those hugs that he sometimes seemed to need to settle in at night. I really missed hugs.’). But it was great seeing what a good kid Noah had become, anyone who met him could see what a great parent Jackson had been to him. I also love how Noah bonded with Liv and watching the three of them starting to become their own little family was truly heartwarming.

As I mentioned at the start of this review, I simply loved how Jackson and Noah fit in with Liv’s friends. Having them accept them meant the world to Liv because her friends were her family and they meant more than anything to her (‘I’d spent years on my own until I found this group of friends. Their approval of Jackson meant more to me than I could put into words. I never thought I’d care for anyone enough to take this step. Seeing them meet was like watching two parts of myself intertwine and meld together.’). I loved that Noah found a friend in Connor and that Jackson became one of the guys. I also loved the shenanigans that ensued when the whole gang got together!

I could go on and on about this book and this series, but all it really boils down to is that this was another fantastic book in a fantastic series! J.L. Berg is definitely one of my top favorite authors and I will absolutely read anything she writes (and I have in fact read everything she’s written so far!). I look forward to the next book in this series next year and I hope that she continues to add to this crew because I am not ready to say goodbye just yet!

‘Sometimes, what you needed in life was waiting for you where you’d least expected it. Sometimes, it was right next door.’
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,889 reviews160 followers
December 16, 2014
There’s not a J.L. Berg story that I don’t enjoy, and the fourth book in her Ready series is no exception. I always know going in that I’m going to get a sweet and sexy read that has a bit of drama and a few complications and a great blend of characters who grow into well developed heroes and heroines by the time the story ends.

This time around, readers get to witness Olivia Prescott, Mia’s best friend from book four, work to find her happily ever after, even if she fights it every step of the way. Estranged from her family for many years, Liv has always been an independent, free spirited woman. She’s worked hard to have the kind of life she’s currently living. She has a great group of friends who have made her a part of their family and a career she loves. A string of shallow relationships is something Liv has resolved herself to because she’s afraid of letting anyone in, afraid of messing up with anything serious. But when Jackson Reid and his son, Noah, move in next door, something tells her that despite neighborly antics, the attraction they feel towards one another can’t be denied.

Jackson’s been a single father since just after Noah’s birth, which has been a draining ordeal, and now that Noah’s a tween, Jackson’s struggling to be everything that Noah needs. A sexy neighbor is not something that Jackson needs right now – not with a new job in a new town and a huge amount of responsibilities. But sometimes the best laid plans are not meant to be and in this class, it’s exactly what Jackson needs to open his heart again and give Liv the family she’s never known she’s wanted.

Both Liv and Jackson have trust issues due to their respective pasts, so they head hesitantly into this new relationship, but the way Liv is with Noah and the crazy fun she brings into both Jackson and his son’s life allow him to see that maybe he doesn’t need the down to earth woman he’s always envisioned because Liv’s funky, eccentric demeanor adds all kinds of wonderful things to both of their lives. Now Jackson just needs to prove to Liv that she has everything she needs with him and Noah by her side.

Ready or Not is a sweet and funny read that allows readers to catch up with all of the main characters from the series as we witness Liv and Jackson’s relationship go from vengeful neighbors to friends to lovers who find the family they need in one another. It’s a great addition to J.L. Berg’s Ready series and a definite must read.

A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Profile Image for Cocktails and Books.
4,146 reviews323 followers
December 14, 2014
Jackson, Jackson, Jackson. I loved Jackson. His good old boy Southern charm and his personality won me over almost immediately. Of all the heroes in the Ready series, I think it's Jackson who give Logan the biggest run for best male.

Liv and Jackson have something pretty special, even if Liv doesn't initially want to see it. After their initial meeting, which didn't go well, these neighbors found themselves drawn to one another. Whether it was to issue a challenge or to just chat with one another, they couldn't seem to stay away. Jackson may not have been one to date, especially with his eleven year old son, but he was open to seeing just what this thing was with Liv. Liv may say she doesn't want a relationship, but she can't deny her feelings for Jackson or walk away from him. What we get is a courtship that is fun, sexy, and definitely hot at times.

Liv and Jackson don't have an easy road through their courtship. Liv's estranged father starts investigating a bid for the White House, which forces Liv to realize just where she stands in the grand scheme of things with her dad. And then Jackson's ex comes to town hoping to cash in our Liv's family wealth. Those events proved that these two were meant for each other, since what they went through made them stronger and understand just how much they need each other.

We get to spend a lot of time with the other couples in the Ready series, which is always fun. It's nice to be able to see that each of them is just as tight, if not tighter, since their HEAs.

JL Berg is an author I always jump to get when I see she has a new release out. The stories she writes always manage to grab onto you, as a reader, and get you emotionally involved right from the very beginning. Her voice constantly amazes me and I look forward to whatever she has coming out next.
Profile Image for Babbling Chatter  Reads.
962 reviews31 followers
December 11, 2014
Olivia "Liv" Prescott is a senator’s daughter who left to start a life of her own away from the limelight of politics. Single father, Jackson Reid, who inherited his grandmother’s house, and his son, Noah are new comers in town. This is the story of two people making and settling in an area to call home.

“There are always going to be people in our lives who will ruin us and pull us down into our own personal hell, but then there are the ones who will build us back up and help restore us to what we are meant to be.”

This is the first book I have read from J.L. Berg' s Ready Series and it was one I really enjoyed. Independent, eclectic girl seeking to make her own lifestyle of living…carefree girl power! And who can’t resist single father raising his son who would do anything to give him a good life…swoony hot! Also, adding the pranks and the banter between Liv & Jackson was the perfect touch to this story. A sweet 4 stars recommended read of finding your own place in life even if it means starting over new and out of their comfort zone.
Profile Image for London.
725 reviews
December 21, 2014
description
Title: Ready or Not (Reader #4)
Series: Standalone series
Author: JL Berg
Rating: 4 stars
POV: Dual
HEA:
Heat/Steam 2/5
Triggers?
Cliffhanger: . No.
Intolerable Heroine .No.
Über Douchebagery .No.
Taboo Subject Matter .No.
Cheating:
Love Triangle
description


Cute easy read with very low angst. I won't get into doing a recap of the story because it's pretty much summed up in the blurb. In typical J.L Berg fashion any misunderstandings or slightly angsty problems are easily and quickly resolved. If you're looking for a sweet and easy romance this will be great for you.
Profile Image for Joyce.
711 reviews
May 10, 2017
This book was AMAZING! Like I didn't expect anything less from the talented J.L. Berg. She is such a talented author that pulls us in such sweet and romantic love stories. And this one was no exception. Liv is a Senator daughter. She is classy yet shows uniqueness and flair. She is such a unique character with her taste and style that you can't help but love. Jackson is just so sweet and nice. I wish I could meet him in person to hear his accent. This book was so cute and funny as well. I love the relationship between Liv and Jackson. I love the way it progress. They are both such hilarious characters. I love them so much and Noah is no exception. This book had me feel everything. I thought it flowed well.
Profile Image for Tangerine.
642 reviews1 follower
December 10, 2014

3.5-4 ★s

I enjoyed this book and I've enjoyed this series as a whole. I absolutely loved this family! This was a sweet, cute, nice, slow (a little too slow at times) read. I'll definitely read the next one.
Profile Image for Ann  Mat.
958 reviews38 followers
April 1, 2015
Enjoyed the smugness of DECLAN JAMES and Logan.


Profile Image for Nettie.
10 reviews
October 12, 2022
This story was beautiful. I listened on Audible, so I’ll also review the performance.
The female read in a clipped voice that made me feel like the character from her view was a bit snotty and that I was playing it at time and a half but the man… oh the man could’ve told the whole story and it would’ve been perfection in my eyes.
It didn’t end with the stereotypical pregnancy, which I loved. I felt like the story was more genuine for it. I didn’t care for the last book I read from this author but I’m a believer in giving an author a couple chances before moving on. This book is exactly the reason I do that.
The story is sweet and genuine and really explores the individualities of each character instead of just being like “oh, they’re hot. They’re mine now. I’m keeping them. I’m putting a baby in them as proof”, like most stories do.
This one also had a bit of originality to it compared to other stories, which I’m not super surprised about because the author’s last story I read was like that as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Night Runner.
1,553 reviews36 followers
August 19, 2021
4 Stars for me!

My rating range throughout the story... 3.75 - 4.25 Stars

Main Character Ratings... H = 7 - h = 7

Scenes with heat.. Several after the 50% mark!

Heat Rating... 7/10
Clean - 1 or 2
Descriptive Sex - 5 or above
Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above

The back story... The H moves from Boston live in is Grandmother's house after she passes away to work for a law firm and make a better life for his son. The h lives next door and clashes ensue.

The Romance... Medium burn

The drama explosion... There are a couple of minor explosions. The first is unkind words from a family member has one MC questioning the relationship and the second is a person from the past causes a major scare.

Final Notes... As much as I did not like the previous story, I was pleasantly surprised to like this story. The author seems to live for extreme angst which I skip over when it starts to drive me crazy but the overall story is very good!

HEA or HFN? HEA
Profile Image for RLV.
1,100 reviews23 followers
February 22, 2024
Ohhhh… this ticked a whole lot of favorite boxes for me:

✅ enemies to lovers
✅ neighbor from h*ll
✅ single dad romance
✅ grumpy hero
✅ smart heroine
✅ bantering couple
✅ pranks galore.

On the other side, however, it’s a little weird how the story jumps from their first real fight to weeks later. I feel like we’re missing a big chunk of their story. Then again not, because once they are officially together it’s like nothing major happens. There are some bumps here and there but it’s mostly pretty boring. Even that *bigger bump* is kinda lacking.

With that said, the proposal at the end was priceless 😅

Enjoyable overall despite the part in the middle that’s a bit more boring.
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