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The Callahans #4
Meant To Be
An angsty, boy obsessed sports romance by New York Times bestselling author, Monica Murphy
Ava Callahan has always been mine.
My first love.
My forever girl.
The only one who truly matters.
But then she broke my heart in the one way I never saw coming. And no matter how hard I try to move on—out on the field or with my friends, always pasting on a fake smile—nothing fills the space she left behind.
I tell myself I’m over her. That football is enough, but it’s a lie. Because every time I see her, I remember what we had. And what we lost.
Ava and I? We’re complicated. Messy. Tied together by a love that refuses to disappear, no matter how many mistakes we’ve made.
I know she’s scared, and I know I hurt her too. But I’m not walking away from her any longer. This time, I’m going to fight for us. For the second chance I never thought we’d get.
Because some loves don’t fade, and some hearts never give up.
Meant To Be is book four in the standalone Callahans series, and the conclusion to Eli and Ava’s story.
Ava Callahan has always been mine.
My first love.
My forever girl.
The only one who truly matters.
But then she broke my heart in the one way I never saw coming. And no matter how hard I try to move on—out on the field or with my friends, always pasting on a fake smile—nothing fills the space she left behind.
I tell myself I’m over her. That football is enough, but it’s a lie. Because every time I see her, I remember what we had. And what we lost.
Ava and I? We’re complicated. Messy. Tied together by a love that refuses to disappear, no matter how many mistakes we’ve made.
I know she’s scared, and I know I hurt her too. But I’m not walking away from her any longer. This time, I’m going to fight for us. For the second chance I never thought we’d get.
Because some loves don’t fade, and some hearts never give up.
Meant To Be is book four in the standalone Callahans series, and the conclusion to Eli and Ava’s story.
370 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2020
1059 people are currently reading
3666 people want to read
About the author
Monica Murphy
107 books18.8k followersNew York Times, USA Today and international bestselling author. A believer in kissing. A believer of love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 321 reviews
August 19, 2022
Jake you are the rudest brother I ever read about,
Eli you got a bit better in this book but somehow even worse at the exact same time.
Both of you need to get your anger under control.
Ava you are 1000000% too good for Eli and he is too violent.
I don’t understand the parents of this universe and I again had to skip over 20 percent of this book BECAUSE WHY ARE THERE EXPLICIT SEX SCENES OF MINORS
Eli you got a bit better in this book but somehow even worse at the exact same time.
Both of you need to get your anger under control.
Ava you are 1000000% too good for Eli and he is too violent.
I don’t understand the parents of this universe and I again had to skip over 20 percent of this book BECAUSE WHY ARE THERE EXPLICIT SEX SCENES OF MINORS
October 22, 2020
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
-That girl, my supposed rival, is my world.
Ava Callihan is the youngest daughter of football legend Drew Callihan. She lives in a small town where she attends high school and is a cheerleader for the Badgers. Life is good, but uneventful. Then her world turns complicated when she falls for the quarterback of her school's biggest rival. Eli Bennett is the bad boy, trash talking troublemaker of the Mustangs football team. Full of attitude and too impulsive, he's everything she should avoid, but she can't help being drawn to him. They're the most unlikely pairing, and to everyone else they don't make sense as a couple, but she see's the real Eli. He means everything to her, and she refuses to give up on him.
Eli Bennett is dating the enemy but tired of sneaking around and hiding they're together. As Ava becomes essential to his heart and their secret relationship is revealed he suddenly feels betrayed by new revelations. He feels wrecked, but doesn't know if he can truly ever let her go. What he feels for her is overwhelming and all consuming. He believes they belong together, but will one of them end up with a broken heart?
-"I'm in love with Eli Bennett, and nothing is going to change my mind about him."
-I trust him. I trust who I am when I'm with him. And I hope he trusts me too.
-Deep down, in his rawest form, he's heartbreakingly vulnerable. His heart, his soul, they bleed. His emotions spill all over the place, but he gathers them back up and locks them away. He can pretend all he wants with me right now, but I've seen the real Eli. And I want more of that Eli.
Meant To Be (Callihans #4) by Monica Murphy is the fantastic conclusion to Ava & Eli's story. This high school, forbidden sports romance was full of humor, angst, emotion, explosive chemistry, and rivalries where two people in love fight for one another. We get even more of vulnerable Eli and his beautiful heart. Swoon, swoon, and swoon some more. He's positively dreamy! I really enjoyed this story and love this series! I hope we also get a book for Beck!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3ojHPpe
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
-That girl, my supposed rival, is my world.
Ava Callihan is the youngest daughter of football legend Drew Callihan. She lives in a small town where she attends high school and is a cheerleader for the Badgers. Life is good, but uneventful. Then her world turns complicated when she falls for the quarterback of her school's biggest rival. Eli Bennett is the bad boy, trash talking troublemaker of the Mustangs football team. Full of attitude and too impulsive, he's everything she should avoid, but she can't help being drawn to him. They're the most unlikely pairing, and to everyone else they don't make sense as a couple, but she see's the real Eli. He means everything to her, and she refuses to give up on him.
Eli Bennett is dating the enemy but tired of sneaking around and hiding they're together. As Ava becomes essential to his heart and their secret relationship is revealed he suddenly feels betrayed by new revelations. He feels wrecked, but doesn't know if he can truly ever let her go. What he feels for her is overwhelming and all consuming. He believes they belong together, but will one of them end up with a broken heart?
-"I'm in love with Eli Bennett, and nothing is going to change my mind about him."
-I trust him. I trust who I am when I'm with him. And I hope he trusts me too.
-Deep down, in his rawest form, he's heartbreakingly vulnerable. His heart, his soul, they bleed. His emotions spill all over the place, but he gathers them back up and locks them away. He can pretend all he wants with me right now, but I've seen the real Eli. And I want more of that Eli.
Meant To Be (Callihans #4) by Monica Murphy is the fantastic conclusion to Ava & Eli's story. This high school, forbidden sports romance was full of humor, angst, emotion, explosive chemistry, and rivalries where two people in love fight for one another. We get even more of vulnerable Eli and his beautiful heart. Swoon, swoon, and swoon some more. He's positively dreamy! I really enjoyed this story and love this series! I hope we also get a book for Beck!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3ojHPpe
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October 23, 2020The conclusion to Ava and Eli's story from ADDICTED TO HIM is here! MEANT TO BE is LIVE and FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
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October 22, 2020
Meant to Be was the perfect ending to Eli and Ava’s story. We get these two finding their way back to each other despite obstacles of teenage life and family. They know they are meant to be and they will let nothing stay in their way of being together. It’s funny, because in this book we see how these two have rubbed off on each other. In good ways, and in some not so good ways, but they are still funny ways. You’ll have to read to find out. This book is pretty steamy, so if you’re looking for a hot new adult set in high school with all the angst, then you will definitely be happy with this book.
AVAILABLE NOW on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
*ARC
AVAILABLE NOW on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
*ARC
February 16, 2024
Meant To Be is not suppose to be. I do not think this book should be written cause the story contains nothing but back and forth POV between Ava and Eli. And they don't even break up.
So this is un necessary. However I do enjoy Miss Murphy writing.
3 stars
So this is un necessary. However I do enjoy Miss Murphy writing.
3 stars
September 8, 2020
ELI BENNETT IS MY NEW ALL TIME FAVE BOOK BOYFRIEND!!!! I absolutely FREAKING LOVED Ava and Eli's love story!!!! A top read of 2020 and now my favourite in this series of standalones!!! I NEVER WANTED THIS BOOK TO END!!! If you love cocky, sexy, damaged book boyfriends who say what's on their mind-consequences be damned (one of my fave things about him) and love their girl with their whole heart and soul then you NEED this book in your life!
Full review to come
Full review to come
December 21, 2020
I am a big fan of Drew and Fable -- and I dearly love the story goes on with their kiddos. But here's where it goes off the tracks for me. These kids are young -- too young for all that goes down -- mostly sexual -- in this story. Way over the top emotions and actions -- sex as page-filler just isn't my thing. The trash talk got really old -- really fast. So much didn't even seem realistic for me. And maybe it's just me -- the reviews would definitely put me in the minority. I might have been easier to convince if Eli and Ava were older -- most likely I could have gone with the flow. But this was just overboard for me and I cringed throughout this book.
October 22, 2020
I'm not ready to say goodbye to Ava and Eli! This series, and especially Ava and Eli's two books, are really YA romance at it's finest- the sweet longing and insecurities, all that teenage angst, a deep chemistry well beyond their years, and all that first love butterflies and nostalgia. Addicted to Him gave me all those swoony feelings as we remember what it is like to fall in love for the first time, and Meant to Be charms as we explore what it takes to STAY in love. And it’s not easy, especially when love is new, you are young, and no one wants you to be together...even if you are meant to be.
This is my favorite Monica Murphy couple of all time- I can not get enough of them. Both Eli and Ava continue to explore what it means to be part of a pair- all the wonderfulness of that, but also the challenge, as they also continue to figure out who they are, as young teens with a romantic connection that is very adult. Their love and connection has an gravitats beyond their years- and we see these fabulous characters mature and grow emotionally. Their bond, their fight to be together inspires them to evolve- to grow, to compromise, to recognize how they, too, need to change- not just those around them. But like all humans, and all teens, they make mistakes as they are figuring it out. Drama, emotions, doubt, youth, and their own naivete not to mention their families and friends can all be barriers. And they themselves are barriers, their imperfections- Eli still reverts to his jerk mentality when he’s hurting or struggling. Ava still wants to people please and doesn’t always stand up for herself. Eli has to learn to be vulnerable and communicative, and Ava has to find her inner strength to demand what she deserves from others- to not back down. And their journey is so tender- because when you are meant to be, well, there is nothing that can stop it.
This conclusion was not at all what I thought the last book would be- but turns out it is exactly what Ava and Eli needed to forever cement their soulful connection. I really appreciated what Monica did here- we have angst, but not what I expected, as we focus more on drama with their families than Ava and Eli themselves- which I actually really found refreshing. We have a whole book about their turmoil, so it is nice to just see them explore being together here. This is less about getting over broken hearts and reconnecting (though we get that, too) but rather working through the messiness that is trying to make others accept them- and in turn realizing they also need to figure out how to be a real couple- that’s never been something they’ve done before. Because they realize it isn’t just the “outside” influences that are a barrier- it is also the two of them, too. Even with familial approval, would they make it? Are they meant to be? That is what we explore here- and UGH, all the feels. I loved how much we get of Ava’s family in this journey- and how deeply we get to sink into the magic that is Ava and Eli together, even when they struggle.
I dreaded making it to the end because I didn't want it to be over- I just wanted to live forever in this sweet and passionate first love relationship. These two stole my whole heart, and I'm not ready to say goodbye!
This is my favorite Monica Murphy couple of all time- I can not get enough of them. Both Eli and Ava continue to explore what it means to be part of a pair- all the wonderfulness of that, but also the challenge, as they also continue to figure out who they are, as young teens with a romantic connection that is very adult. Their love and connection has an gravitats beyond their years- and we see these fabulous characters mature and grow emotionally. Their bond, their fight to be together inspires them to evolve- to grow, to compromise, to recognize how they, too, need to change- not just those around them. But like all humans, and all teens, they make mistakes as they are figuring it out. Drama, emotions, doubt, youth, and their own naivete not to mention their families and friends can all be barriers. And they themselves are barriers, their imperfections- Eli still reverts to his jerk mentality when he’s hurting or struggling. Ava still wants to people please and doesn’t always stand up for herself. Eli has to learn to be vulnerable and communicative, and Ava has to find her inner strength to demand what she deserves from others- to not back down. And their journey is so tender- because when you are meant to be, well, there is nothing that can stop it.
This conclusion was not at all what I thought the last book would be- but turns out it is exactly what Ava and Eli needed to forever cement their soulful connection. I really appreciated what Monica did here- we have angst, but not what I expected, as we focus more on drama with their families than Ava and Eli themselves- which I actually really found refreshing. We have a whole book about their turmoil, so it is nice to just see them explore being together here. This is less about getting over broken hearts and reconnecting (though we get that, too) but rather working through the messiness that is trying to make others accept them- and in turn realizing they also need to figure out how to be a real couple- that’s never been something they’ve done before. Because they realize it isn’t just the “outside” influences that are a barrier- it is also the two of them, too. Even with familial approval, would they make it? Are they meant to be? That is what we explore here- and UGH, all the feels. I loved how much we get of Ava’s family in this journey- and how deeply we get to sink into the magic that is Ava and Eli together, even when they struggle.
I dreaded making it to the end because I didn't want it to be over- I just wanted to live forever in this sweet and passionate first love relationship. These two stole my whole heart, and I'm not ready to say goodbye!
November 6, 2020
I honestly hate myself for reading this in one sitting. Whenever I could and took a break from uni, I immediately dived back in. I just couldn't hold myself away and I wanted to keep on reading about my babies.
First of all, I must say that this book had a lot of unnecessary drama that could have just been avoided and.. I think the main problem between the couple could have lasted more than just a few chapters. I personally also couldn't stand Ava's parents in the first half of the book, because they treated Ava like shit (Jake as well, but I love him way too much so he is forgotten). And if I compare how they treated tough situations with their kids in the previous books, I just feel like the approach here was different and way too.. weird? This is why I'm giving it only 4 stars.
BUT TO THE GOOD PART. I still loved this simply because of Eli and Ava. I mean I was rooting for them ever since the football camp so all I wanted was for my babies to be finally happy. I'm actually very happy we got so many cute scenes with them because it again showed what an amazing couple they make. I just don't know whom I love more, Jake&Hannah or Eli&Ava - I just can't make up my mind.
Also, I'd like to give a special mention to Jackson and Ellie, because I loved these characters and their personalities, and I just want to know more about their story.
***
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First of all, I must say that this book had a lot of unnecessary drama that could have just been avoided and.. I think the main problem between the couple could have lasted more than just a few chapters. I personally also couldn't stand Ava's parents in the first half of the book, because they treated Ava like shit (Jake as well, but I love him way too much so he is forgotten). And if I compare how they treated tough situations with their kids in the previous books, I just feel like the approach here was different and way too.. weird? This is why I'm giving it only 4 stars.
BUT TO THE GOOD PART. I still loved this simply because of Eli and Ava. I mean I was rooting for them ever since the football camp so all I wanted was for my babies to be finally happy. I'm actually very happy we got so many cute scenes with them because it again showed what an amazing couple they make. I just don't know whom I love more, Jake&Hannah or Eli&Ava - I just can't make up my mind.
Also, I'd like to give a special mention to Jackson and Ellie, because I loved these characters and their personalities, and I just want to know more about their story.
***
Follow me on Instagram for book edits.
October 22, 2020
Wow! I really couldn’t wait to dive in and see what happens between Eli and Ava. This couple goes through so much that you cannot help but hope they get their happily ever after. At the conclusion of Addicted to Him, readers were left wondering what will happen next. Well, there is a lot that happens and these two fight for each other. They way that they go to bat for the other whether it be against their friends or their family is very touching. It is an emotional roller coaster that has its highs and lows, but the highs are definitely worth it. So happy that this series wrapped up with such a sweet and loving story. Great to see the other characters from the series and catch up with the entire Callahan family.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
August 11, 2021
Overall, I enjoyed this 2-Book, Ava/Eli saga. I loved Eli’s crazy messy life and how unfiltered he was. And I just loved Ava, she’s by far my favorite Callahan. So while I loved both books, I don’t think it was necessary to have two books. The pacing was a little slow and I feel like some scenes could’ve been cut and this could’ve been just one book. Anyway, Book 1 ends in a cliffhanger so you’ll need to read Book 2. Book 2 is less angsty and super cute and hot. The audiobooks are great, I could listen to Teddy Hamilton every day! I’m super intrigued by Jackson Rivers and Ellie, so that’s probably going to be my next read by this author.
November 22, 2020
it took me exactly a month to complete this, I'm ashamed of myself. I do love eli and ava, that wasn't the problem but I felt that the drama in this book could have been wrapped up nicely in the first book itself by adding 50-60 more pages. don't get me wrong, im not complaining I loved all the eliava content I got but somehow the drama part was lagging and irked me a bit. overall, eliava owns me I love them <33
December 7, 2020
I NEED Jackson and Ellie like right now! Also Eli Bennett is life.
November 16, 2020
Monica brought her A-game to this series, skillfully capturing those angsty teen emotions that twist you into knots! Add in plenty of high school drama, hot broken bad boys, and swoon-worthy romance, and you have one heck of an addictive read. I loved every word
October 23, 2020
What did i just read lol.
I’m glad I only read the second part of this love story because the first part is probably more dramatic 😅
The hero and heroine at first was broken up because of a big misunderstanding, the hero thought the heroine tells his secret to her brother which at the time was a troublemaker for their relationship. The heroine did not such thing and they broken up. It was only for a week i think and they got together again.
I’M GLAD THAT THE HERO WHEN HE WAS VERY DRUNK AND VERY HEARTBROKEN ABOUT THE WHOLE BREAK UP THING, When a OW come up to him and basically touching him... He didn’t touch her back and sends her away saying he’s in a relationship. He said raincheck tho. But I’m glad that the ow didn’t come up again and just goes away.
THIS BOOK WAS JUST NOT FOR ME SORRY....
TOO MANY CHILDISH SCENES FROM BOTH AND EVEN THEIR PERSONALITY IS CHILDISH. I KNOW BOTH ARE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL but still.... it’s like reading me back in high school and i did not need a reminder like this from a book lol.
OW is a bit annoying too and this was the other one.
All the drama was really annoying and confusing.
Many situations was left behind without any reason.
NO CHEATING AND IT HAS SEPARATION! The heroine was seen with someone but it was a situation that got her eventually meet up with the OM but they never kissed, they basically was only talking.
BOTH did push away some times!
I don’t like when the heroine was a bit ALMOST OTT POSSESSIVE. I want the hero to be that way! Not the heroine what the heck! It was annoying to read that!
The hero always said she’s mine but many times to himself and not many times to the heroine omg.
THE HEROINE always said he’s mine which i find very uncomfortable to read because omg i want that to be the hero saying that, not the heroine!
Overall this story was not that good for me to read. I don’t feel entertaining at all reading this....
TOO MANY CHILDISH DRAMA SCENES FROM THIS HIGH SCHOOL COUPLE that was not even fun!!!!
The epilogue was only few weeks later
*rolling my eyes*
I’m glad I only read the second part of this love story because the first part is probably more dramatic 😅
The hero and heroine at first was broken up because of a big misunderstanding, the hero thought the heroine tells his secret to her brother which at the time was a troublemaker for their relationship. The heroine did not such thing and they broken up. It was only for a week i think and they got together again.
I’M GLAD THAT THE HERO WHEN HE WAS VERY DRUNK AND VERY HEARTBROKEN ABOUT THE WHOLE BREAK UP THING, When a OW come up to him and basically touching him... He didn’t touch her back and sends her away saying he’s in a relationship. He said raincheck tho. But I’m glad that the ow didn’t come up again and just goes away.
THIS BOOK WAS JUST NOT FOR ME SORRY....
TOO MANY CHILDISH SCENES FROM BOTH AND EVEN THEIR PERSONALITY IS CHILDISH. I KNOW BOTH ARE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL but still.... it’s like reading me back in high school and i did not need a reminder like this from a book lol.
OW is a bit annoying too and this was the other one.
All the drama was really annoying and confusing.
Many situations was left behind without any reason.
NO CHEATING AND IT HAS SEPARATION! The heroine was seen with someone but it was a situation that got her eventually meet up with the OM but they never kissed, they basically was only talking.
BOTH did push away some times!
I don’t like when the heroine was a bit ALMOST OTT POSSESSIVE. I want the hero to be that way! Not the heroine what the heck! It was annoying to read that!
The hero always said she’s mine but many times to himself and not many times to the heroine omg.
THE HEROINE always said he’s mine which i find very uncomfortable to read because omg i want that to be the hero saying that, not the heroine!
Overall this story was not that good for me to read. I don’t feel entertaining at all reading this....
TOO MANY CHILDISH DRAMA SCENES FROM THIS HIGH SCHOOL COUPLE that was not even fun!!!!
The epilogue was only few weeks later
*rolling my eyes*
October 9, 2020
This book was everything I wanted and more. From beginning to end, I devoured every word and page, needing to know what was going to happen and how everything was going to play out.
I hate to say too much and give anything away, but just know that this story was everything that Ava and Eli needed. It’s real and raw, and sometimes a little messy. I still wanted to punch Jake in the face, and that pains me because I loved him so much in his own book. He may take that overprotective brother role a little far sometimes, but it comes from a good place.
Ava and Eli navigating their broken hearts, was heartbreaking to read, but I think it may have been something that was necessary. Their hidden issues were brought to the forefront, and forced them to figure out if they could work through it. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing a different side of both Eli and Ava. Ava definitely showed a more confident side of herself in this story, and I think we got to see a little bit more of Eli’s vulnerability in this book.
Hands down, one of my top reads of 2020. The angst, and the love, and the freaking Callahan’s. I’ve loved them from the very beginning and I absolutely love watching Drew and Fable be parents. Knowing what they grew up with, and how they handle their kids is truly beautiful. This is a book and series you don’t want to miss out on. This is truly the epic conclusion of Ava and Eli’s story!
I hate to say too much and give anything away, but just know that this story was everything that Ava and Eli needed. It’s real and raw, and sometimes a little messy. I still wanted to punch Jake in the face, and that pains me because I loved him so much in his own book. He may take that overprotective brother role a little far sometimes, but it comes from a good place.
Ava and Eli navigating their broken hearts, was heartbreaking to read, but I think it may have been something that was necessary. Their hidden issues were brought to the forefront, and forced them to figure out if they could work through it. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing a different side of both Eli and Ava. Ava definitely showed a more confident side of herself in this story, and I think we got to see a little bit more of Eli’s vulnerability in this book.
Hands down, one of my top reads of 2020. The angst, and the love, and the freaking Callahan’s. I’ve loved them from the very beginning and I absolutely love watching Drew and Fable be parents. Knowing what they grew up with, and how they handle their kids is truly beautiful. This is a book and series you don’t want to miss out on. This is truly the epic conclusion of Ava and Eli’s story!
October 12, 2020
Ohhhhh gosh. This story was perfect.
There is something that just gets to me about young, first love.
When we first met Eli, he was not someone that I thought would be a favorite book boyfriend.
But.. you really get an in depth feel for his family life in this story and now I am just a sucker for him. Ava and Eli really compliment each other. There are so many other dynamic relationships between the characters in this story and I found them very compelling too.
To be honest, I had been in the biggest book slump since reading Addicted to Him and getting to see the conclusion to this story really helped me.
Who knew that Eli Bennett could be such a sweet romantic?
There is something that just gets to me about young, first love.
When we first met Eli, he was not someone that I thought would be a favorite book boyfriend.
But.. you really get an in depth feel for his family life in this story and now I am just a sucker for him. Ava and Eli really compliment each other. There are so many other dynamic relationships between the characters in this story and I found them very compelling too.
To be honest, I had been in the biggest book slump since reading Addicted to Him and getting to see the conclusion to this story really helped me.
Who knew that Eli Bennett could be such a sweet romantic?
January 2, 2023
Oh my!!! We pick up where Addicted to Him left us, hearts feeling broken and not sure what will happen between Eli and Ava. Our hearts are broken into pieces, but this story slowly starts to build it and piece it back together, hoping it will be mended, but Eli and Ava takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions that you aren't sure how it will end with them. Monica Murphy creates these worlds of characters where you feel a part of the journey and feel for these characters. Eli, man, you love and hate him, but you feel for him and at the same time yelling at him to get his head on straight. Ava, love how strong and independent a spit fire she is, but feel for her and her heartbreak. Meant to Be is a fantastic story that will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time waiting to see what will become of Eli and Ava or if them not being together anymore is what is meant to be. Read and find out what becomes of Eli and Ava, you will not be able to put this book down!
October 26, 2020
Fantastic ending to Ava and Eli’s story! This started off where “Addicted To Him” stopped so you do need to read that book first. And oh what a ride! Fun, Sweet, Emotional, and so, so Hot! This book was everything a contemporary young adult story should be, friendships, first romances, serious issues and strong family bonds. But this book was deeper, heavier and sexier than the first one, and I really enjoyed and appreciated that.
I found the development of Eli and Ava’s characters to be really refreshing, and the development of their relationship to be so realistic. The social issues they face as well as the way they support one another shows just how much their characters care and have grown as they realize just how important they are to one another. These characters leapt from the page and straight into my heart.
I loved the writing, all the cast of characters and the fact that we get to see the previous couples from the books in this series. I was completely addicted and entertained from start to finish. This was refreshing, convincingly heartfelt, swoony and Hot!!
Received a early copy for an honest review.
I found the development of Eli and Ava’s characters to be really refreshing, and the development of their relationship to be so realistic. The social issues they face as well as the way they support one another shows just how much their characters care and have grown as they realize just how important they are to one another. These characters leapt from the page and straight into my heart.
I loved the writing, all the cast of characters and the fact that we get to see the previous couples from the books in this series. I was completely addicted and entertained from start to finish. This was refreshing, convincingly heartfelt, swoony and Hot!!
Received a early copy for an honest review.
February 4, 2021
They were so ridiculously cute that now I can't move on...
Ava making me fall even more in love with her? check.
Me loving Eli but simultaneously wanting to punch him in the face so he wouldn't talk more shit? check.
Me being scared to start the next book because if I don't get a good explanation I'm gonna hate men for the rest of my life? check, check, CHECK.
Ava making me fall even more in love with her? check.
Me loving Eli but simultaneously wanting to punch him in the face so he wouldn't talk more shit? check.
Me being scared to start the next book because if I don't get a good explanation I'm gonna hate men for the rest of my life? check, check, CHECK.
May 31, 2023
Silly teenager drama continues…. I actually didn’t finish it. Perhaps I’ve outgrown the YA stuff? Anyway, I just didn’t vibe with this.
October 28, 2020
5⭐️
I was so excited to receive this! I was soooo anxious to know what happened after the fact. I devoured this right away!
Eli and Ava are my fave in the series. It's angsty but not too much where you get drained from reading.
Looking back, I can definitely understand why they needed a second book and not shorten the first to fit everything. I mean, these guys already have two books about them and I still wanted to read more... I feel like it was hanging but who knows? There may be a book or novella about them or every one in this series in the future.
I'm so excited for the next book in this series! I can't wait *heart eyes*
I was so excited to receive this! I was soooo anxious to know what happened after the fact. I devoured this right away!
Eli and Ava are my fave in the series. It's angsty but not too much where you get drained from reading.
Looking back, I can definitely understand why they needed a second book and not shorten the first to fit everything. I mean, these guys already have two books about them and I still wanted to read more... I feel like it was hanging but who knows? There may be a book or novella about them or every one in this series in the future.
I'm so excited for the next book in this series! I can't wait *heart eyes*
November 10, 2020
the things I do for mahana
September 9, 2021
Eli Bennett is the stuff that book boyfriends are made of! He will melt your heart and your panties all at the same time.
The cliffhanger from the last book really had me on pins and needles. I couldn't think straight until I picked this book up to continue Ava and Eli's story. Murphy is a brilliant storyteller. She crafts the plots of her stories with so much finesse. She makes the reader crave the story like oxygen and leaves the reader on the edge of their seat diligently consuming every single word. The pacing is always perfect and the crafting of the story is always excellent.
I am in complete awe at how much I fell in love with these characters. Thinking back on it, I think that I say this every time I read one of Murphy's books but this time it feels more intense. Ava and Eli's characters really resonated strongly with me for some reason. Murphy forged such a powerful connection to these characters with phenomenal character building and development. She wrote such realistic characters that it was so easy to fall right into their worlds. These characters are genuine. They have flaws and quirks and endearing qualities that make them pop right off the page. Another thing that I absolutely love is all the side characters. I adore the Callahan family and their friends so freaking much. Murphy writes characters that the reader absolutely falls in love with, even when they aren't the focus in a particular book. Her side characters bring so much to the stories - depth, interesting dynamics, and qualities that the reader just gravitates to. It's always so gratifying to see them pop up in other books as well.
The romance in this book was off the charts hot! Eli Bennett will leave you breathless. The love that Eli feels for Ava can be felt in everything he does and says. The love that Eli and Ava have for each other is genuine and significant. They truly appreciate each other and care for each other. Witnessing their love unfold in this series has been truly gratifying. And while Eli Bennett can be romantic, he can also set your panties ablaze with that dirty mouth of his. Eli is hotter than a firecracker on the Fourth of July. Just saying.
Overall, I am absolutely smitten with Eli and Ava's story. They are relationship goals for sure. I was completely consumed by this story and I feel like it will be a while before I come back up for air. If you haven't tried the Callahans series yet then you are missing out on some extraordinary stories. Murphy is an expert storyteller that weaves magic into her books with every word. I am so stoked to read the next book in the Callahans series!
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The cliffhanger from the last book really had me on pins and needles. I couldn't think straight until I picked this book up to continue Ava and Eli's story. Murphy is a brilliant storyteller. She crafts the plots of her stories with so much finesse. She makes the reader crave the story like oxygen and leaves the reader on the edge of their seat diligently consuming every single word. The pacing is always perfect and the crafting of the story is always excellent.
I am in complete awe at how much I fell in love with these characters. Thinking back on it, I think that I say this every time I read one of Murphy's books but this time it feels more intense. Ava and Eli's characters really resonated strongly with me for some reason. Murphy forged such a powerful connection to these characters with phenomenal character building and development. She wrote such realistic characters that it was so easy to fall right into their worlds. These characters are genuine. They have flaws and quirks and endearing qualities that make them pop right off the page. Another thing that I absolutely love is all the side characters. I adore the Callahan family and their friends so freaking much. Murphy writes characters that the reader absolutely falls in love with, even when they aren't the focus in a particular book. Her side characters bring so much to the stories - depth, interesting dynamics, and qualities that the reader just gravitates to. It's always so gratifying to see them pop up in other books as well.
The romance in this book was off the charts hot! Eli Bennett will leave you breathless. The love that Eli feels for Ava can be felt in everything he does and says. The love that Eli and Ava have for each other is genuine and significant. They truly appreciate each other and care for each other. Witnessing their love unfold in this series has been truly gratifying. And while Eli Bennett can be romantic, he can also set your panties ablaze with that dirty mouth of his. Eli is hotter than a firecracker on the Fourth of July. Just saying.
Overall, I am absolutely smitten with Eli and Ava's story. They are relationship goals for sure. I was completely consumed by this story and I feel like it will be a while before I come back up for air. If you haven't tried the Callahans series yet then you are missing out on some extraordinary stories. Murphy is an expert storyteller that weaves magic into her books with every word. I am so stoked to read the next book in the Callahans series!
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST
Read
May 8, 2021Edited Manuscript
July 3, 2021
4 stars
October 22, 2020
I was so excited to read this book that I begged Monica to let me read it early. The cliffhanger in Addicted to Him left me reeling and I needed more Ava and Eli, stat. This story starts off where the last book ended, with both of them left heartbroken. I didn't know how I could feel so much for a boy I thought was a giant jerk in the books prior, but Monica has a way to make everything right for me. She is an author I trust and I know she is going to take care of my feelings!
I won't lie, I loved Jake. LOVED him in Falling for Her and I understood his hatred for Eli. Eli was such a jerk, and that is putting it mildly. In Meant to Be, I felt terrible for Eli, but felt worse for Ava. She was heartbroken and her family was like, "well, you should have known better". It was like they didn't trust her to know her own heart. My mom always had a saying, trust none of what you hear and only half of what you see. This applies here because if anyone would have taken the time to really SEE Eli like Ava did, they would know there is so much more to him than what he projected. He was such a broken boy and it broke my heart.
The book was a slow burn, they didn't get right back together, and I liked that. I knew they would, but it was nice to see what each of them went through getting there. Eli was so swoonworthy. He is a real top contender for book boyfriend of the year. He had my heart in the prologue of Addicted to Him and he never stopped making me fall.
There was a LOT of teenage drama in this book; I had to sit back and say "Oh My Gosh, is this what kids do now?" The answer is yes. With social media everything is out there for everyone, the good and the bad. It can be misconstrued and there was a lot of that going on here. See above for mom's quote about believability.
In the end, it was a fantastic conclusion to this series. It was nice to see everyone back in the book for a little bit and that everyone came together as a family. It also set up future books with Eli and Ava's friends. I need to see two things here: A Jackson book and a redemption arc for Lindsey, but that one is purely selfish.
I won't lie, I loved Jake. LOVED him in Falling for Her and I understood his hatred for Eli. Eli was such a jerk, and that is putting it mildly. In Meant to Be, I felt terrible for Eli, but felt worse for Ava. She was heartbroken and her family was like, "well, you should have known better". It was like they didn't trust her to know her own heart. My mom always had a saying, trust none of what you hear and only half of what you see. This applies here because if anyone would have taken the time to really SEE Eli like Ava did, they would know there is so much more to him than what he projected. He was such a broken boy and it broke my heart.
The book was a slow burn, they didn't get right back together, and I liked that. I knew they would, but it was nice to see what each of them went through getting there. Eli was so swoonworthy. He is a real top contender for book boyfriend of the year. He had my heart in the prologue of Addicted to Him and he never stopped making me fall.
There was a LOT of teenage drama in this book; I had to sit back and say "Oh My Gosh, is this what kids do now?" The answer is yes. With social media everything is out there for everyone, the good and the bad. It can be misconstrued and there was a lot of that going on here. See above for mom's quote about believability.
In the end, it was a fantastic conclusion to this series. It was nice to see everyone back in the book for a little bit and that everyone came together as a family. It also set up future books with Eli and Ava's friends. I need to see two things here: A Jackson book and a redemption arc for Lindsey, but that one is purely selfish.
April 1, 2024
Absolutely loved this conclusion to Ava and Eli’s story! I was on edge the whole time just thinking something else would happen and they would break up. Both of them have some growing up to do as both can quickly jump into conclusions and lash out on each other. I did love how they remained strong and made it clear how much they love each other.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Fav quote : “Every moment is good between us, princess. You should know this by now. Angry. Happy. Whatever. We’re good together”
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Fav quote : “Every moment is good between us, princess. You should know this by now. Angry. Happy. Whatever. We’re good together”
October 18, 2020
....And we get the conclusion to Eli and Ava's story after only having to wait about a month after Addicted to Him (thank you for that, Monica Murphy)! This book is for us! If you haven't read that book yet, stop what you're doing and pick it up before reading this one. This is high school love and angst at it's best!
Remember falling in love for the first time? Remember what it felt like at 16/17 to think THAT was your whole world? Remember the times in high school that you thought would alter your life FOREVER? This is what Monica Murphy captured in Meant to Be, but with so much more. And a little warning, while this is set in high school, this book has a lot more sex in it than the first, so while it is YA, the content is definitely more NA.
Eli Bennett is the QB1 at a rival school. He's cocky, outlandish and is a total trash talker. His mouth gets the best of him at the best of and worst of times. But underneath it all is a boy that has been damaged by the ones that are supposed to love him. His family life is something he'd rather stay hidden, but when you live in smaller community, people talk.
Ava Callahan is one of the middle children of football royalty. She's a good girl with good grades and keeps to her small group of friends. She's kind of a background player...until she's not. She's way more of her mama than she realizes. She's feisty. She protects those that she loves and maybe her love interest is rubbing off on her.
This book we got to see a first love grow and characters rubbing off on one another in some good and bad ways (just wait for Ava. She's a tough cookie). We got to see a family that is all about love and a family that is broken but kind of trying to repair itself. It was the perfect conclusion for Eli and Ava. I just loved these two! This isn't a mature adult love story and the writing and journey reflected that. I'm glad that it felt like high school and the angst and drama that went along with that rather than something more. This is a first love sort of book and that's what it felt like. Even with complex family issues, it balanced with Eli and Ava's love story. I think Eli and Ava could keep going and going and going with their story. They complement each other well.
As long as she wants to hold my hand, I'll keep her. Forever if she'll let me.
Along with this being Eli and Ava's story, we also get snippets of side characters that definitely have potential. I can't wait to see if those will develop into more.
What a journey for these two! I enjoyed every minute of it! Eli and Ava will surely never bore you.
4+ "You and me? We're untouchable." stars
Remember falling in love for the first time? Remember what it felt like at 16/17 to think THAT was your whole world? Remember the times in high school that you thought would alter your life FOREVER? This is what Monica Murphy captured in Meant to Be, but with so much more. And a little warning, while this is set in high school, this book has a lot more sex in it than the first, so while it is YA, the content is definitely more NA.
Eli Bennett is the QB1 at a rival school. He's cocky, outlandish and is a total trash talker. His mouth gets the best of him at the best of and worst of times. But underneath it all is a boy that has been damaged by the ones that are supposed to love him. His family life is something he'd rather stay hidden, but when you live in smaller community, people talk.
Ava Callahan is one of the middle children of football royalty. She's a good girl with good grades and keeps to her small group of friends. She's kind of a background player...until she's not. She's way more of her mama than she realizes. She's feisty. She protects those that she loves and maybe her love interest is rubbing off on her.
This book we got to see a first love grow and characters rubbing off on one another in some good and bad ways (just wait for Ava. She's a tough cookie). We got to see a family that is all about love and a family that is broken but kind of trying to repair itself. It was the perfect conclusion for Eli and Ava. I just loved these two! This isn't a mature adult love story and the writing and journey reflected that. I'm glad that it felt like high school and the angst and drama that went along with that rather than something more. This is a first love sort of book and that's what it felt like. Even with complex family issues, it balanced with Eli and Ava's love story. I think Eli and Ava could keep going and going and going with their story. They complement each other well.
As long as she wants to hold my hand, I'll keep her. Forever if she'll let me.
Along with this being Eli and Ava's story, we also get snippets of side characters that definitely have potential. I can't wait to see if those will develop into more.
What a journey for these two! I enjoyed every minute of it! Eli and Ava will surely never bore you.
4+ "You and me? We're untouchable." stars
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