Now or Never

Mapleton #2

by Diana Deehan

THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN FRIENDS AND LOVERS HAVE NEVER BEEN BLURRIER...

After surviving the chaos of film school as a single mom, Chelsea Davenport's ready to hit the reset button in the charming small town of Mapleton. But her tight finances jeopardize her newfound stability. So Chelsea devises a plan to transform her new home into a film location. Things look up…until the town's charismatic heartbreaker enters the scene and throws a wrench in her plans.
Adam Vale is determined to be Chelsea's buddy despite a seriously awkward intro. With his mysterious connections, he not only nabs Chelsea a film deal and a job on set, but also starts constructing his BFF Ethan's house right next door. The only problem? As Adam gets to know Chelsea, his feelings for her become a little too friendly. But his life is complicated, and he's sworn off serious relationships and kids for good reason.
Try as they might to keep it all platonic, Chelsea and Adam’s attraction intensifies beyond their control. Can they resist the magnetic pull of romance, or is it time to yell “Cut!” on the "just friends" charade?

In 'Now or Never,' Diana Deehan crafts a steamy, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy that introduces two unforgettable characters as they grapple with the risks of denying love.

Genres: Friends To Lovers, Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Small Town Romance

392 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 5, 2024

Reviews

[tarnx · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was easy to read. I liked it more than the first book. The chemistry between Adam and Chelsea was great and the tension was .. *sigh* I loved it! I really enjoyed this one!

[Kimberley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Now or Never. This small town, friends to lovers romance has all the tension and instant attraction between Adam and Chelsea. They both have a past and Adam’s journey is heartbreaking at times and the reasons why the way he is so totally understandable. I adored the supporting characters their banter and friendship truly made this story even more memorable. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good love story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute small town romance between a single mom and a sort of undercover billionaire. It starts out fairly awkward, but finds its groove. Ultimately, I think the best friend Jae is the odd piece. She is somewhat necessary to move the plot forward but somehow she just doesn’t fit.

I’m giving 3.5 stars where able.

[Kelsie Charbonneau - theshelvesofduchessarya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diana crushes it again! Man, do I love the Mapleton Series! Every story makes me happy, and I love all the characters! Adam and Chelsea were adorable and head strong! I can't wait for the next book!

[tash.bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT FRIENDS-TO-LOVERS ROMCOM!!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️

This was book#2 in the Mapleton series, and I was so excited for Chelsea and Adam's story. Chelsea is a young single mom to 4yr old Ben, and lives in a mansion she inherited with her long lost sister (Natalie from book#1). Adam is the town playboy who's will never settle down, and a blue collar billionaire (and best friend of Ethan from book#1). Chelsea dreams of writing and directing her own film, but can barely afford her living arrangements, so she rents out her property for filming. At the same time, Adam's family construction company is starting to build Natalie and Ethan's home on the same property. The two agree to be friends so they can work out filming/building schedules.

This was a really cute small town, friends-to-lovers romcom! The tension and attraction between Chelsea and Adam really builds throughout the book. Adam wasn't the typical playboy but really sweet, and it was nice to see his character grow. His tier system for ranking women (not what you think) was pretty funny. There are some ups and downs, and then really the struggle to stay just friends really kept me glued to my Kindle!

I've really enjoyed this series and can't wait to read about Max + Willow in book #3!!!

[Bookwormhookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

With heartfelt gratitude, I express my appreciation to Diana Deehan for providing me with the opportunity to immerse myself in - Now or Never, the second captivating installment in the Mapleton series. Remarkably, this literary masterpiece stands firmly on its own, enchanting readers with its enthralling plot, rendering it accessible to those who have yet to embark on the journey of Book 1. The seamless narrative ensured that my comprehension of book 2 remained unhindered, allowing me to fully savor the rich tapestry of emotions and events woven throughout its pages.
Although the beginning was slow, the story soon picked up and I ultimately loved Chelsea and Adam's story. Chelsea, a talented and educated woman, ended up getting pregnant by her boyfriend. He left without making any promises, and she became a single mother. With her new financial obligations requiring a steady income, her dreams were relegated to the bottom of her priority list. The way she sacrificed her dreams for the sake of her son was heart-touching.
While living in Mapleton, she meets Adam.
Within Chelsea's close-knit circle of friends in the quaint town, there existed Adam. Despite his ostensibly intense aversion to children, Chelsea couldn't resist the magnetic pull of his captivating presence. I was utterly enthralled by the profound complexity and captivating layers of Adam's character. The undeniable chemistry between him and Chelsea was nothing short of enchanting, further enhanced by the endearing connection he shared with her adorable son, Ben.
But was happily ever after easy, with the ex back in town for a second chance? Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed how this book captivated my attention. I became emotionally invested in the characters and would gladly revisit the town of Mapleton in future installments. Highly recommended!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a brilliant book this is, it has just about everything to keep you turning page after page not wanting to put it down. Chelsea is a single mom, trying desperately hard to keep everything together for her son. Using her house for a film set could only help, even though she knew she was giving up her own dreams he was worth it. She would never let him down like his father had let them both down, walking away weeks after he was born, she'd learnt her lesson there and that would never happen again. Moving here was a fresh start for them both putting her dream to shoot and produce her screenplay could wait, or maybe even sell the script the money would certainly come in handy. Adam was living his life as he thought was best for everyone. He was the one everyone relied on, always there to help out anyone he could. As long as he stayed on the path he was on he'd be ok, no commitments no relationships just keeping things simple. That works for him until he meets Chelsea then his whole world is blown to pieces. Both of these have reasons for avoiding any type of relationship misguided or not. I loved how the story builds a picture that shows how each character struggles yet the vulnerability and compassion each shows is so believable. Even though this story is so complicated and compelling it still has you laughing at the same time. I hope that you'll love this as much as I have, I'm looking forward to the next book in this series

[Maureen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to BookSirens for an ARC of Now or Never, Book 2 in the Mapleton Series by Diana Deehan. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

While this is a series, this could work as a standalone. A fun little HEA enemies-to-lovers story of Adam and Chelsea. Chelsea is a young single mom of adorable Ben. She and her college roommate, Jae have recently moved into the mansion that Chelsea inherited from her birth father. She and her half-sister Natalie were willed the estate and in the first book in the series meet each other and figure out how to make their new sisterhood work.

Adam is a local billionaire who works in construction with his uncle. He's tasked with starting to build a home for Natalie and her husband Ethan near the mansion. Chelsea, meanwhile, is desperate for some income to make sure she can pay the taxes on the house. She puts the property up for a film shoot and is stunned when Jasper, the father of her son Ben shows up as the director on the film.

Good sparks fly between Chelsea and Adam and bad sparks between Chelsea and Jasper. Adam claims he'll never settle down due to health reasons and Jasper seems desperate to get Chelsea back in his life.

There's a lot of people towards the middle of the book and it did get a little confusing. It seemed unimportant but there was some introducing of new characters that will be part of book 3.

All in all a quick sweet read.

[BackwardsBookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diana Deehan's "Now or Never" is a refreshing and invigorating read that captures the essence of seizing the moment in both life and love. The story follows the journey of the protagonist, who faces a crossroads that challenges her self-discovery and personal growth.

Deehan’s writing is both engaging and relatable, with characters that feel real and multi-dimensional. The pacing of the book keeps you hooked, making it difficult to put down. The blend of heartfelt moments and light-hearted humor strikes a perfect balance, allowing readers to connect deeply with the protagonist's struggles and triumphs.

One of the standout elements of the novel is its exploration of relationships—not just romantic ones, but also friendships and family dynamics. Deehan expertly weaves these themes into the narrative, encouraging reflection on what truly matters in life.

While the book is delightful and inspiring, there are moments where the plot feels a bit predictable. However, this does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. The ending leaves you with a sense of hope and empowerment, making it a perfect read for anyone looking to embrace life's possibilities.

In summary, "Now or Never" is a wonderful addition to contemporary fiction. Diana Deehan has delivered a touching story that reminds us all to take risks, cherish our connections, and live for today. A solid 4-star read!

[Valerie Bourgoin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

As a fellow Canadian, I love seeing stories set in this country. This was my second Deehan’s story to read. The characters of Chelsey and Adam were introduce to us in Fight or Flight. It is always nice to see familiar characters have their stories developed and see some old ones take a second role.

I loved how the story of Chelsey and Adam developed. The push-pull that they feel throughout the book and how, no matter how hard they try to deny it, their connection is real and strong.

I also enjoyed how Chelsey has people who are there to support her and her son, Ben. Such strong defendants as Jay, Natalie, Vincent, amongst others, who show up for her, countless times. Adam does too. His relationship with his protective uncle was very heartwarming.

The story is well written, with a plot that is quick to engage the reader. I would’ve loved to have more of a story development towards the end, but one of the last chapters jumps to « 3 months later » and that was a huge disappointment for me. I wanted to hear more of what happened during those 3 months and that’s why I gave it 3 stars. I felt let down by not knowing more of the 2 MC’s story.

[Crystal Cichanowicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved Chelsea and Adam. I could not put this book down and practically inhaled this story. If you’re in a slump and looking for a quick, fun read, then this is a perfect book for you.
There are some heavy themes. Adam is still dealing with some trauma from the loss of a parent and a life threatening accident. While these events did occur quite a while before this story takes place, they have impacted him rather severely. He never hides who he is and makes it clear from the beginning that a long term relationship is not what he’s looking for. He does love his friends and family fiercely and would do anything for them. Chelsea’s is dealing with financial woes and abandonment by her son’s father. The author dealt with each of these issues quite well and the characters responded to events with maturity.
The connection between these two lovebirds is palpable. I ate up every word exchanged between the two and rooted for them from the beginning.
I also cannot deny that I loved reading a story from my own country and not too far away from home either. I look forward to the next story that will follow some of the friends we met here.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kaitlyn Corbin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Adam and Chelsea. Adam wasn’t the typical golden retriever MMC, he reminded me more of my German Shepard: goofy and yet serious if anyone he loved was threatened. Chelsea was, to put it bluntly, relatable as fuck. I understood her struggle to put her dream to the side in favour of making a choice that would put money in the bank to pay bills and make sure her son was provided for. I sympathized with the struggle to silence her intrusive thoughts of “if I didn’t have my son, I could stay out longer and keep having fun with my friends” while also knowing if her son didn’t exist, her life just wouldn’t be the same.
The ending was a classic happily ever after with all the loose ends tied up and a little hint at what the third Mapleton book is about.
I would have liked to learn more about Chelsea and Jaspers relationship before he left her so I could understand why he was so checked out from his relationship with Ben. Most of his reactions to things that were happening with Ben confused me (maybe because I just don’t understand why someone would be a deadbeat dad). But besides that, the book was amazing, definitely a book I’d reread again.

[Kae | Albxtrcss · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Life's to short to let happy times slip by. You gotta stop and soak them in."

I absolutely adored this book - I devoured it in a single day!

Adam and Chelsea are two extremely endearing characters, but both are living with traumas from their past that have left their mark. These subjects could very well have been romanticized, but that wasn't the case. They were treated in a respectful and sensitive way, which I really appreciated. Watching their awkward relationship slowly evolve into a friendship, then into a deeper attachment that they both refuse to see (but that everyone around them notices) was funny, touching, moving. But there are a quite few bumps in the road they have to deal with, before they get to live their HEA.

Ben is such a lovable kid that you quickly become attached to him. And if you've read the first volume of the series, Ethan and Natalie are quite present and it's interesting to see another POV of Ethan & Adam friendship, and of Natalie & Chelsea relationship. I wasn't a big fan of Jae, but on the other hand, I really appreciated Vincent and Adam's uncle, David. I hope we'll see them again in future installments.

Thanks to BookSiren and Diana Deehan for this free ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story felt unique even though it followed some familiar tropes. It also made me cry, which is not usual for a book. Adam, a guy who usually lives life to the fullest, says away from commitment and love in the wake of his accident. Chelsea is a single mom who only wants commitment and shys away from casual sex after her jerk of an excuse left her and her son after just a few months to pursue his carrier.

This story flows nicely and their relationship blossoms organically, although there are more than a few bumps in the road. I'm not always a fan of single parent stories, but this one works Chelsea's son in beautifully, sharing enough to make you feel a connection with him.

I also enjoyed seeing bits of the characters from the first book in this series, including their marriage, but this could definitely be read as a stand alone.

Highly recommend this one and can't wait to read Diana's next book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[bookgirl1021 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by the author, Diana Deehan. This is the second in a series, A Mapleton Novel. The blurb indicates that the book can be read as a standalone, however it took about five chapters to catch up on what was missed from the first book. Had I read the first book this likely would be a five-star review. Chelsea is a single mom struggling with a mortgage, and broken dreams. Adam appears to be a playboy billionaire who has no cares in the world. But things aren't always as they appear. Through a series of events, open communication, and a bit of therapy can these two be a match? I enjoyed watching their relationship grow, as well as the honesty shared with their friends and extended family. Being honest with yourself, following your dreams, and being open to possibilities can change the future in marvelous ways. Have the tissues ready, you may need them.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[booksadoodle (Tammy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I laughed out loud some more, and I felt honored to be able to read this arc, the 2nd book in the Mapleton Series by Diana Deehan. Having read the first in the series, I knew that I wanted more of their stories. I fell in love with this one even more than the first, as Diana's writing gets better and better. This is full of friends, found families, small town romance, single mom struggles, a little spice, and overcoming past traumas. The characters are so likeable and endearing, I could not put this down! So excited for the next installment and for Max & Willow's story! Absolutely enhanced by reading the first book before this one but could totally be read as a standalone. This is definitely going on my list of best books for 2024! Thank you so much to Diana Deehan, the publisher, and BookSirens for the opportunity to review this e-arc. I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Lisa Benison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute, Small-Town, Slow Burn, Single-Mom with Movie Setting and Wonderful Characters

This book had a lot going on and was an easy fast read. It is part of a series and although it did take me a few chapters to "catch up" and figure out all of the players, it is easily read as a stand-alone. I liked Chelsea and Adam and even though I understood their motivations for protecting their hearts, I still rooted for their HEA. Their attraction and heat was well described and it was fun to see them finally give in, and Adam was so sweet with Ben. I loved many of the background characters - especially Benny and Jae and hope to see more of them in future stories. I look forward to reading more from this author and seeing more books set in Mapleton - Enjoy!

I was sent an advanced review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[rosalinda.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love it... I liked the plot and it is easy to read. The characters are lovable especially Adam and Ben. Ben is Chelsea's son, I was so happy when he said this lines - "I’m proud of me,” he said, beaming a smile. “I’m never riding a scooter again!”
Adam is the most green flag of all because I seriously didn't think he was like that. Chelsea wasn't the only one who was surprised, I was too hehe and this is my favorite line of Adam “To get her to see that I’m with her until the end".
Chelsea - I love her, she really deserve to be love.. Such a strong and a wonderful woman. Overall I liked this book and last but not the least This line is another one that stuck in my mind "Love doesn't just disappear when someone dies. It stays with you, coats you, like another layer of skin.” - Uncle David.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author and it definitely won't be my last. I really enjo6this friends to more story, especially with the small town backdrop. Chelsea is a single mom. She sacrifices her dreams and hopes to give her son a good steady life. When she moves to Mapleton, she meets Adam and the two grow close. But Adam is not looking for a relationship, especially one that includes kids. But their connection and attraction is strong, and it becomes harder to resist the pull they have towards each other.

A lovely and heartwarming story with wonderful characters that I instantly fell in love with. The story was well-written and kept me engaged from start to finish. I enjoyed it very much and look forward to reading more by this author.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Judith]

This novel was a very pleasant, easy-to-read single-mum romance with a lot of slow-burn. forbidden relationship decisions. The chemistry between Adam and Chelsea is explosive but Adam's fear of dying early for years prevented him from forming any longer-lasting connection with anyone, especially anyone with a child who is totally out of his "tier" system. Their chances are almost over with Adam's constant to-and-froing with Chelsea until she's had enough and decides to move on. Adam nearly misses his chance but saves the situation at the 11th hour and we get a satisfying, well-deserved happy-for-now ending. I am happy to recommend it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[…Welcome to My World &#x1f30e.. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a funny and fast paced cute story. It also touched on heartbreak and tragic moments without being too heavy. Chelsea is a single mom to adorable little Benny. Her and her best friend have always wanted to make their own movie. Adam is a hot guy who was attracted to Chelsea but ran as soon as he found out she was a single mom. These two began to hang out more due to Chelsea’s sister Natalie marrying Adam’s best friend. These two were very nice together. I love that Chelsea didn’t just give in to Adam right away. She made him prove to her that he loved her. I loved that in the end Chelsea made better choices for herself and began to take up for herself more.

I received an ARC copy and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Epilogue Lover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this. I so enjoyed Fight or Flight and this did not disappoint as the second in the series. Chelsea is a single mum, not ready to date until she meets Adam. He freaks out when he realises she has a son and they instead try to be friends. They can’t fight their chemistry for long though, and end up romantically involved even though Adam refuses to have a real relationship. The angst in this was so gripping because it was actually valid! Rather than what’s usually surface level nonsense keeping characters apart in romance novels. I totally get why Adam distances himself from Chelsea and it makes the story pretty heartbreaking at points. The main characters are so likeable, as well as the community around them - the other characters don’t feel like fillers at all! My only gripe is that this felt a bit short! Easily readable in a day and I just wanted mooooore. Can’t wait to read the rest of the series 🥰

What to expect:

- small town romance
- single mum
- friends to lovers

[Annie✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for letting me read this copy as a ARC reader before it’s published.

If you like slow burn romance between two very stubborn people, who care about others more, than they care about their own feelings, than this book is for you!!

Their love story is heartbreaking at times due to things that happened in their past, but the other times, you will be kicking your legs, because of how sweet and beautiful their romance is!

The spice level is low (2🌶️ out of 5) and it’s refreshing to read a romance book.

I would definitely recommend reading this book because it is easily 5 out of 5 stars!

[Charlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

HAPPY RELEASE DAY!

Now or Never is a small town, friends to lovers romance following Adam and Chelsea’s story. The attraction between the two characters was instant but for their own reasons dating each other seemed impossible. Adam is a sweetheart and has a heartbreaking past in life. Chelsea is a single mother choosing to put her dreams on hold and settle down in Mapleton to give her son a happy and stable upbringing. The relationships with all the characters and side characters were so good, the banter the flirting and tension was perfect!
Thank you Diana for the opportunity to read your novel early it was a refreshing and feel good read!

[Heather Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a digital ARC of this book. This is the second book in the series and could technically be read as a stand alone, but the main characters are in the first book as side characters and there are spoilers to book one in this book. Chelsea’s sister and Adam’s best friend are together. Chelsea is a single mom and Adam is a known player. But what happens when they are both secretly attracted to the other. Add in Chelsea’s ex and father of her son saying he wants her back and you get quite the roller coaster ride of a story. I read this in one sitting, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. You’ll have to read it to find out if Chelsea ends up with Adam or Jasper, or neither.

[Frances Torres · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet book. It's the kind of style where it's like a hallmark movie with a little of spice to it. There isn't a whole lot of world building in the story and side chracters come here and there but it's a great book for those who want a quick read without having to think too much and want some sweet romance that puts you a in a good mood. I did received a copy of this book as and ARC reader but it doesn't change my mind about the writing. I seriously enjoyed it and laughed a couple of times.

[Charity Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, cozy book that I enjoyed reading. The characters mesh and have good vibes together. It always warms my heart when deadbeat dads who can't take a hint get the boot and a woman can find someone to pledge his undying love. It takes a good man to step into a ready-made family and I will forever get a mushy heart for these stories!

This was an incredibly fast read which is always good for me.

I received an advance review copy for free; this review is 100% honest and my own opinion, and I wrote it voluntarily.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in Deehan's Mapleton series but can be read as a standalone. This is Chelsea and Adam's story, a clean and sweet romance read with a captivating storyline. I loved these characters - Chelsea is so strong as a single mom struggling to make ends meet and Adam seemingly a playboy billionaire but there is so much more to him. This book had the emotions rolling for me but I loved every minute of it!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Inessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another quick and easy, light hearted read by Deehan. I enjoyed the characters and storyline more in this book than the first of the series. Adam’s reservations were a bit odd as he’s a thirty one year old single male but I’m glad everything worked out in the end. I want to see more of Vince. He was such a good man but I’m sure his time in the universe is done. Again, my main complaint is the books are too short. I need more from the characters instead of, “I love you” after two months time. Overall, better than the first so a 3.5 rating!

[Michaela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adam is a mother trucking bike, not a scooter. No more sccotering here! If you haven't read the book, then you don't know what that means and I'm not going to tell you because I want you to read the book. I read all 387 in one sitting laughing all the way because of my goodness I loved Adam and Chelsea! Just know that they are perfect and I love them and I love Ben and I love Vincent and I despise Ja- we don't say his name! 

I love the single dad romances but I also love the single mom romances where the MMC is just what the family needs. Something about a cute little kid in a romance books is just not fair! Fish in a barrel people!! How do you not fall in love with everyone in their village?!?!?