Where Life Takes Us

by Alexandra Shaw

Let’s say my flight from Seattle to New York was rerouted to Boston due to an unexpected ice storm, and all my initial plans were completely canceled. Let’s say I find myself at the airport with long lines and frustrated passengers. Should I go to the airline and yell at the representatives, or should I call my administrative assistant to help book me a new flight and find me a last-minute hotel? I chose the latter. The next morning, seeking comfort in a warm espresso and freshly baked pastries, I visited a cozy French bakery near my hotel. As I enjoyed my breakfast, let’s say a handsome man approached me and asked if the seat at my table was free. What would be my initial thoughts? Would I assume he wanted to take the seat and sit at another table, or would I think he intended to sit at my table? Despite my initial surprise and mortification, I apparently have inadvertently invited him to sit down. Let’s say he sits at my table. Would I expect him to be unpleasant and rude to the point where I would want to leave and go back to my hotel? Or would I think he might be friendly and engage in pleasant conversation?

What I got was a lot grumpy, I don’t have time for this crap!

Gavin: Normally, I consider myself a kind and well-mannered person. However, these past couple of days have been exceedingly challenging. Recently promoted to VP, this was my first customer visit, and I was struggling to maintain my usual friendliness. When I saw this woman at the bakery, her beauty immediately captivated me, even though she was completely disheveled. As she took a bite of her breakfast sandwich, a radiant smile graced her face, and I couldn’t resist being drawn to her. So, I decided to take a seat at her table. Let’s just say I wasn’t the best version of myself.

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2024

Reviews

[Roxie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is chef’s kiss! The tension between the characters is perfect. The banter between the characters is amazing. Gavin and Ava’s (MMC and FMC) relationship path, in my opinion, accurately represents real life relationships. The turbulence in their relationship was overcome and they were ableo to have their HEA. Highly recommend this book.

[Ashly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This charming romance is a delightful mix of fate, humor, and chemistry. A chance meeting at a French bakery brings together two flawed but captivating characters, leading to a story filled with tension, awkward beginnings, and unexpected connection. The interplay of grumpiness and charm keeps the narrative engaging. A sweet, heartfelt 4-star read that reminds us how love often finds us when we least expect it.

[Melissa Melmch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the entertaining fun and sweet I loved the main characters and the side characters so much I hope we get to know them all better in the future . This book is about Ava and Gavin who meet in Boston during a blizzard, they didn’t immediately hit it off and the banter was so real, they go out and the story begins this story has 2 people who work through some personal issues and fall in love on the way for sure a book all romance lovers will fall in love with

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it

Love this book but I'm hoping for A sequel was an amazing read of love would recommend to all my book besties

[Tammie Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Now I need more. Laughed at the antics of shopping together and his gaydar. Gonna start on The Coach now.

[G.M. Parrillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!

My own love story with my husband was incredibly similar to Ava and Gavin's. That initial tension turns into an instant love despite the age gap. These two have their own pasts that they deal with, but what I love is that they deal with it together. Gavin, being there to support her health issue, was so heartwarming and sweet. And the way she crafted Ava as the old soul trapped in a young person's body is something really well written. Alexandra gave the right amount of spice, but all the love and compassion a couple in love should have for one another. Will definitely be reading more from Alexandra! Beautifully done!

[amanda_coffee_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea what this book was about, but I knew I had to support an indie author. I hadn’t read anything by this author before, but after finishing this book, I bought more of her books. She definitely a new auto-buy author for me!

I fell in love with Gavin and how open his heart is. I felt really bad for Ava and how she had to deal with endometriosis. I thought I just had bad periods growing up, but I didn’t realize how much pain women go through who have this. I’m glad the author included it in the story because it makes the characters feel more real. And how scared she was of Gavin, I probably would have done the same thing as Ava.

At first, I didn’t like that Ava’s friends got Gavin’s number. It bothered me a bit. But when Gavin couldn’t reach Ava, it was her friends who helped her out, and her cousin whom I loved. This book is a short read, but it didn’t feel that way. I felt like these two were meant to be together. It’s crazy how the universe works. I wanted to hurt someone when I found out how young Ava was (24 is a good age, though). I think Ava had an old soul because she went through so much at a young age in a past relationship. Christine was my least favorite character. Oh my gosh, the spice in this book was on point! It was so well done.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It took me a little longer to finish, but I couldn’t or didn’t want to leave this world. The author did an amazing job. The writing and world were amazing.

[Emz sirenreadssmut · Rating 5 out of 5]

I DEVOURED this book !! This book was amazing from page one ! It was exactly what I needed something interesting but still on the lighter side. It was filled with flirtatious playful banter that had me giggling & kicking my feet, the humor (I love a good book that makes you literally LOL) , the spice was delicious & plot was absolutely intriguing, I loved that both the MMC & the FMC as individuals, had uniquely complicated past histories with relationships. Reading how they overcame certain things made me tear up!! Everything about this book was balanced so nicely and well written !! I could not put this book down !! I would have finished it in one day if it weren’t for things needing to be done! I related in a personal level to many things in this book & it made it that much more enjoyable!! I would definitely read this book again !! Btw this book definitely helped pull me out of my reading slump!!!!

[Kem Verner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A business trip to New York. A nor’easter with other plans and diverted flights to Boston. A petite, brilliant firecracker. A tall, dark and handsome British gentleman. A chance encounter on polar opposites. Each coming off failed relationships that resulted in neither being able to trust. Maybe, just maybe, the stars align and true love can blossom. But hold onto your knickers! Witty banter, hot sex, laugh out loud moments, jealousy, exs, meddling family, and did I say hot sex? Alexandra Shaw writes about messy, but real life in this contemporary romance. She reminds the reader everyone is carrying baggage, but it shouldn’t weigh us down, shouldn’t define us. It should add to our character, allow us to heal ourselves, find happiness and learn we should still rely on our friends, family and sometimes complete strangers to get us through in our times of need.

[Leslie Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 with 🌶️🌶️.5

This book had me hooked from the moment I started reading. I absolutely loved the technical jargon/humor within this book. I enjoyed the fact the each MC was able to address and persevere from the issues that held them back.

What I loved most about this book was the FMC had a career in a male dominated industry. The technical world is constantly changing and adapting to that change is important. That hit home for me. Also, the way Alexandra Shaw wrote the FMC in such a way that she is both hard and soft of character.

This book has :
- 2 Strong Minded MC
- Witty and Playful banter
- Amazing Love story
- Perfect amount of Spice
- Relatable Content

This was a really enjoyable book to read. It was an amazing pallet cleanser and left me with feel good vibes. Especially during the moment when everyone was dancing in the kitchen.

[Renee Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a dark romance girl, but this cute rom-com was the perfect palate cleanser!

Ava is so adorable. She is feisty and has a backbone, but is also kind and caring.

Gavin is everything a woman could want in a man!

I love this story and how two people randomly meet and become each other's world. This follows Ava, who was in an alcoholic relationship. She suffers from endometriosis and had a traumatic experience with a flare-up, and her then-boyfriend not being there for her throughout her ordeal caused some ptsd for her.
Enter Gavin, who was also in a relationship whose significant other was also an alcoholic and with intense jealousy issues, and caused a scene in a restaurant that just brought him to the end of the relationship
This is a must-read. The banter and witty remarks had me smiling throughout most of the book.

[Brittany Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start this by saying I am not usually a romance reader. I usually just do not care for romance books. However, I ate my words with this one because I DEVOURED it! I had no clue this love story was what my heart needed! I probably looked like a goofball reading it because I wasn’t just smiling at the book. No- I was big goofy, cheesy, got your cheeks hurting kind of smiling!
You have two people that are different in so many ways stuck together in Boston after their flights were forced to land because of an unexpected snow storm. Both have had experiences that made them not interested in dating- instead focusing solely on their careers.
He asks if a seat is available at her table. She, assuming he’s going to take the chair to another table says yes… but then he sits. Well that’s awkward but ok… until he’s a completely grouchy jerk.
By the time he’s realized his mistake- she’s headed for the door. He has to apologize and make this right. So what better idea than to convince her to spend the day with him right?

This was the sweetest story! I am obsessed with Gavin- the MMC! Ava- a short brunette that can handle herself- was just as amazing! Then as you follow their story, you meet so many other characters you will absolutely fall in love with… and some you will despise! I am so happy I read this! You definitely won’t regret checking this out!

[🐷Shay loves books🐷 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! I cldnt put it down. It follows Ava the FMC and Gavin the FMC, they meet by accident when their flight gets re routed to Boston and they are stuck for several days trying to get to NYC, for business. They met at a diner and had an instant connection, they had a great time together and started dating. Her company took her back to Seattle and he had to go on to New York. She had a horrible past and trying to overcome a past alcoholic relationship and the Hell she went through with him. She’s very skeptical and it’s hard for her to trust people. It’s such a great book and I enjoyed it so much! Can wait to read more of her work!

[Kristen Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unexpected love story

A fast paced love story that quickly pulls you in and doesn't let you go until you're one the last page.

This story is about Ava and Gavin. Two people who live so close together Only to meet after their flights get cancelled for weather. Having a rocky start, they put differences aside and go out shopping together. Both having put work first for so many years because of terrible past relationships, but realizing how much they want to be with each other.

Read about the challenges they face an about a love so pure nothing can ruin it.

[Henriette · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author reached out for me to read this and make a review, and I am always happy to discover new authors and books, so of course I said yes!

I have to say, I did enjoy this book quite a bit. It was a very cute romance story with likable main characters.
I liked the love story, and how the communication between the main characters seemed more grown up with very few miscommunications, which sometimes really annoy me, like just talk to each other! And Ava and Gavin did, and it ended up good for them.

I am more to the thicker plot and more troubled souls, which is why I give it 3 stars. It’s really cute and well written, just not exactly my pace.
Please do not let that discourage you from reading it - Alexandra is a great writer of cute love stories ❤️

[Matthew Castle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt everything

I felt everything. Alexandra’s voice as a writer is something I loved from page one. She had been leaned in and I found myself in that position the whole time I was reading. I was excited to know what happened next and the description of the characters and how they were feeling I also felt those feelings. I felt anticipation and tension and at times she had my own heart jumping. It’s a must read. I truly loved it, loved her as a writer and her voice and her story. I will be reading more from Alexandra Shaw going forward. Already excited to read more.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. It is an amazing pallet cleanser. It is fun and happy with the insta love and no third act breakup. I loved that it dealt with women’s reproductive disorders and also fainting disorders as I have dealt with both. I was able to really relate to the FMC. I enjoyed the banter between the family members and also the protectiveness that they have for the FMC and MMC. I also enjoyed that the FMC and MMC were extremely understanding and reassuring of each other’s feelings. Truly an amazing read. I really enjoyed it.

[Michelle Burch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trauma is real. An author who wrote an actual book with real life trauma issues and responses. Ava definitely isn't alone. The feelings written in this book had me connecting on different levels. I felt for Ava and for Gavin. Understanding the harsh reality of past relationships effecting new relationships as well as a parents need to have all the attention. It deserves 5 stars for being written with more than one problematic dynamic that places relatable characters in real life relationship situations. I Really enjoyed reading it. Thank you.

[Mary Lohorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book! Absolutely loved it. Laughed out loud several times reading this. Gavin and Ava shared so much with each other in the first few days after meeting after their plane was grounded b/c of a snowstorm. There was an instant connection such amazing banter and the spice! 🌶️🥰 I love the love they shared for each other in the short around of time after they met. Really enjoyed them and all the banter including with the side characters. Now I want to read Nigel’s story!

[Alexa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don’t Judge A Book By It’s Cover!

The author reached out to me to do a review of this book. I wasn’t sure about it because of the cover. I ended up loving this book! I loved all of the main characters in this book. I loved all of the side characters as well except for the ones that you are meant to hate. This book was such a fun read with just the right of drama to keep the book interesting. I also loved the pop culture references especially the references to the show friends. Highly recommend this book.

[Macie Jenkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute & Sweet

This was such a cute book and a good read!
I will say, some small trigger warnings are needed if you have a sensitivity to alcoholism, drug use, or suicidal thoughts! So please take caution.
The MMC and FMC are adorable together as well as individually. I was giggling and kicking my feet for most of the book! A nice short read that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was great book by my good friend Alexandra Shaw. I loved the story of Gavin and Ava. Ava Endometriosis it is medical condition and a lot of women suffer from it and I think it's good be more aware of it. Gavin at first was a grumpy pants but after while he was a nice guy. He loved Ava and would do anything for her. Ava was a great character and I fall in love with because she deals with of the same issues I do. I highly recommend this book if you like romance and spice.

[Alicia Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved these characters!

This book was so good! You will go through all your emotions with this book! It’s sad, funny, serious, happy and the list goes on. This book touches on some tough topics. The author does a great job getting you through those tough moments and you can feel the emotion put into this book! I highly recommend this book if you want to feel all your emotions with one read!

[Serena Ortiz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author reached out to me, to see if I’d read her book. I absolutely loved it! I’m more of a dark romance reader but this love story was so cute! I couldn’t put the book down! I love how they didn’t care if they were moving to fast. They just knew they were perfect for each other. I really hope there’s a second book!

[Katrina DeClue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by Alexandra Shaw and I have to say, I’ve added another author to my favorites list!

The author starts this book with a cliffhanger centered around a character named Christine. When the prologue ended, I thought to myself “I need to know if what she’s done was successful or if she was caught in time”. The way this grabbed hold of me and sucked me into the book.

Gavin and Ava are the two main characters in the book and their initial meeting wasn’t the best. They connected over the fact that they had been relocated to Boston when their flights to New York were diverted due to weather conditions.

Their story is one of grace, understanding, compassion, and learning how to trust again. Ava has been through some stuff in her past and we see how difficult it is for her to push past her insecurities and trust issues, but Gavin never leaves her side, reassuring her that he’s never going to leave her.

The ending left me like 😮 - like, who is this person? And were they mentioned in the story?

Overall this was a beautifully written story and I cannot wait to read my next Alexandra Shaw book!

[Cortnie Duffield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored Gavin and Ava’s story! It struck the perfect balance between humor and romance, keeping me smiling and swooning the whole way through. The writing was smooth, engaging, and so well done. If you’re looking for a story that’s both heartfelt and fun, you won’t regret picking up this book!

[Katie Wastlund · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was amazing .The characters were well developed.It is a friends in beginning to lovers story.Ava and Gavin need another book.It was very fast paced read for me .The ending is where I just kept going as I could not stop.Run get this book because you will not be sorry you read the book.

[Natasha Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was invested in this story from page 1.
The banter between Ava and Gavin right from the beginning was so good.
How they navigated around the obstacles they faced and helped eachother deal with their pasts was true love.
This is a story of love at 1st Site and yes I spelled it that way on purpose!!!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just absolutely captivating. I finished it in two days. The FMC is a petite feisty thing with real world problems that are incredibly easy to identify with and it makes you want to be her best friend and the MMC is a strong alpha type with a British accent. 10 out of 10 would recommend. Warning it will get you in your feels but in the best way possible.

[Ifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I normally don’t gravitate towards insta love but this was super cute! I loved how Gavin and Ava handled all the situations life threw at them and navigated their unexpected relationship. Communication is everything and these two were just perfect.