In My Boxes & Breakups Era

by Lola B. Marie

“I'm a different person than I was at 23 and as I peer ahead into my future – ten, twenty, thirty years down the road – tears fill my eyes at the prospect that this is the rest of my life. I don't think I can accept that.”

In a life marked by monotony and a marriage that has long since lost its spark, Jo finds herself yearning for something more—though she can’t quite put a name to it. After taking a risk and opening her own clothing boutique, she begins to embrace her potential. She stands at the precipice of change, armed with newfound clarity about herself. She is no longer a bystander in her own life; she has the power to choose what aligns with her true self.

And through this journey of self-discovery and growth, there’s Cole. The new UPS driver that delivers all her restocks, also brings his easy charm and soulful eyes to brighten up even the cloudiest of days.

Jo's journey has brought her to a crossroads, one full of challenges, but also brimming with possibilities. Her big decisions now hinge on her values and what kind of future she envisions. Does she attempt to rebuild her marriage, knowing the effort and compromise it would take? Or does she embrace the freedom that comes with walking away and the chance at a brighter future with someone new?

In My Boxes & Breakups Era is a contemporary romance about second chances in life, the search for self-worth, and the strength needed to grow.

Genres: Romance

165 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 26, 2025

About the author

Lola B. Marie is a Midwest-born indie romance author who writes stories with heart, heat, and a touch of chaos. She believes in empathy, equality, and the power of fiction to make people feel seen.

A lifelong romance reader and self-proclaimed “pissy Pisces,” Lola never imagined her daydreams would turn into published novels—but now she’s all in. When she’s not writing, she’s probably hanging out at her favorite local bookstore, Bedpost Books, dominating her fantasy football league, or overanalyzing a podcast while sipping Dr. Pepper and snacking on gummy candy.

She lives in the Midwest with her husband, son, and a house full of male pets who ensure she’s always outnumbered but never bored.

Lola is proudly pro-diversity, pro-women, pro-choice, pro-LGBTQIA+, pro-science, and anti-hate—because stories should be inclusive, and love should never have limits.

Reviews

[Vonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Lola writes it, I'm reading it! This is her second book in a different genre, and she did such an amazing job with this one. I love seeing Jo becoming this strong woman and creating friendships with women who are also strong. I loved this one so much!

[Cecelia Farmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am struggling with what I want to say about this book.
The emotions it brought up were raw and real, tapping into feelings that many women have throughout their lives and relationships.
The way this story outlines and celebrates the growth and joy for Jo, and how she finally starts putting herself first... It's honestly inspiring.
It was so refreshing to have a story where the MMC was understanding to what the fmc needed and was willing to sacrifice his own happiness for her.

I enjoyed the story immensely, unable to put it down once I picked it up. Just like the authors last book.
This one will be one of my re-reads for sure, and I cannot wait to get a physical copy in hand. Thank you Lola for writing such a beautiful story. 🖤

[Faith Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Lola did not disappoint! I rarely get emotional while reading but this book hit super close to home as a divorced woman who had to navigate healing and dating post separation. I love the strong bonds the fmc found in her female friends and learned to love herself after not being appreciated! I cannot wait to read what Lola writes next!

[Niki N Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a very cute but at the same time and very relatable story from many people, she was married and her husband just didn't quite understand her and get what she was going and where she was moving in life and just didn't think to respect for what she had to say, and then you have the delivery guy be very cute sweet attentive delivery guy, it does have some spice but definitely not as much details I've had previously it made for a nice palate cleanser after the extreme dark book I had read previous to this, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I would definitely say the dedication was a very encouraging one as well, I think it was a cute rude and I definitely think if you are able to romances that contain growth of the character then this is something you should pick up, it's around 150 pages to a very short read.

[Heather Mylek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Loved the Gilmore girl references! Such a cute read! I didn’t want to put the book down! Gave me all kind of emotions!! Well written, great story with some spice!!! Highly recommended!!!

[Bryce Rae Huston · Rating 5 out of 5]

STOP THIS BOOK WAS SO CUTE.
We LOVE an understanding and attentive man. ❤️
Jo is such an amazing FMC and I think that who she is encompasses a lot of women and I think that’s extremely important. Watching her find herself and ultimately find love not only in a romantic aspect, but in her friendships as well ugh I LOVED IT.
If you love Taylor Swift, funny friendships, and a strong golden retriever MMC. Pick this up.

[Amanda Britain · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful contemporary romance! A couple of things you’ll find in this book: golden retriever MMC, FMC who finds her voice and stands up for her needs, friends to lovers, a little romance tension buildup with the perfect amount of spice. Lola is 2 for 2 and it’s safe to say I will read anything she writes!

[Kelley Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book would be a four and a half star read for me . This book is a cute little sweet romance that is very realistic and down to earth. The main female character goes through what alot of women can relate to . The main male character is the dream kinda guy every woman wants.
The way their love blossomed is adorable.
I will say this book has me squealing and going omg alot specially when the main male character is willing to do anything to make her happy

[Carly Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book so fast! I absolutely adored Jo. Her journey is one that a lot of woman go through and it was so nice to see it represented in this story. I also loved Frankie and related to her a lot. This story follows a young woman through her struggles with what most (some) of us deal with, failing marriage, trying to please everyone, learning self care, and learning how to communicate. I read how her character grew and flourished, it wasn’t easy for Jo though. Frankie was a perfect example of opposites attract, she was a perfect best friend. I kinda fell in love with Cole. Seriously, men should read this book and take some notes!

Read this book, I’m not a huge contemporary Romance reader myself but Lola’s writing makes u forget, I was completely immersed in Jo’s life. So to Jo I say “When I walk in the room I can still make the whole place shimmer” - Taylor Swift

[emmaz.bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much for this arc 🫶🏻

This was my first read by Lola B. Marie, but it honestly had me feeling all the things! This fast-paced story is truly for every woman who’s ever felt like she wasn’t good enough or has been overlooked. I really related to Jo in some ways, and I loved her personal growth and the new friendships she made!

Also—Cole? The absolute perfect man. He was so gentle, sweet and caring. How can you not instantly fall for him? 🥰

This story made me laugh and feel sad more than a few times, and it’s honestly so inspirational. Plus, the spice was absolutely perfect!



✨Side note: the book Frankie mentioned at the beginning—I immediately recognized it, and it made me cackle out loud so hard since it also ruined cookies and cream for me!! 😂

[gracie · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you to the author for the arc!

this was such a lovely story! it felt like a breath of fresh air compared to some other romance novels on the market. the pacing was well done. overall this book just made me so happy!

I loved reading about Jo’s growth and perseverance. she’s such a strong character and it was so nice to see her stand up for herself. her friend group was so amazing too, I love how her best friend would always support her and helped her grow.

Cole is amazing, his and Jo’s relationship was so cute!! I loved their communication and his understanding. their banter and spice scenes were 🤭

[Caitlyn Lohkamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

To every woman who has ever felt like they weren’t enough or they were overlooked, this book is for you. Jo’s story was inspiring in a way that I feel like only a certain population will understand. I cried, laughed, and cried some more while reading this beautiful story. This was a quick read but still held an impact that I hope speaks to women who need it.

The spice was spicing and I overall just loved this book ❤️

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lola B Marie is officially one of my top favorite indie authors after this read! The instant chemistry with the MFC and the MMC was sooooo good. I finished this in one sitting while at work, I could not put it down at all. There's not a whole lot of spice but when the spice comes up it is definitely spicing 😫🥵🌶🌶🌶.

[Cheyenne Hygh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute short fun read. Jo was finding herself again and finally understanding her worth. It was so good! And then to meet Cole who absolutely gave her all she deserved was perfection. That man knew how to treat a woman right. Every woman needs a Cole in her life and a bff like Frankie. 100 percent!

[natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a quick read and so worth it. The characters are sweet and relatable! I love a good story about a woman finding her worth and taking control of her life. Anddddd a sweet (handsome) teddy bear of a man who swoops in and loves her in all the places she is in! It’s got the spice and all the feels in a nice little package, what more could you want?

[Ashlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun short easy read. I read this in a day because I could not put it down. You fall in love with Jo and her friends. I loved seeing an FMC who knew what she was worth and fought for it. I can't wait to read more from Lola in the future.

[Breanna RHW · Rating 4 out of 5]

what a cute & quick read! 2 very different best friends (I relate most to Frankie). Jo's journey of opening her own boutique comes with all of the challenges and all of the rewards

[Mariah · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a cute short read! Loved the MFC! Also loved the Taylor swift lyrics at the beginning of the chapters!

[Dezarae Toranto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved. Highly recommend, especially for anyone that's in the process of learning to accept something you don't think you deserve.

[Kim Maxey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I’ve read of Lola’s and I love how they are written so well yet so differently. Her character build is amazing and I feel as those they are tangible people in my world.

I wasn’t expecting to find such parallels to my own life experiences, but did. And I found myself so drawn in I couldn’t put it down.

This is an incredible story about friendship, family, growth, and understanding. The FMC never crosses any moral boundaries, even though at times I would have gladly cheered for her if she had. It’s written from a fun yet fiercely loyal perspective.

I was NOT disappointed in the least! Dare I say, each of Lola’s books is better than the last?? Excited to see what else she brings us!

[Brooke Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ 3🌶

Oh, I loved Jo & Cole so much!

Part one of the book was pretty emotional for me - as a woman, a married woman, it's easy to lose yourself in the day-to-day responsibilities and expectations that often come with the role of "wife." We meet Jo while she's in an era of transition and finding herself - married but realizing she's outgrown her husband and needs him to grow with her. We meet Cole, a sexy delivery driver, who shows her friendship and what mature relationships can really be like.

This book does an amazing job showing what growth looks like - that it's not always consistent or always positive, and that mature relationships often include a "not right now."

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ughhhh what can I say about this book to accurately convey my love for it? I relate to Jo so much. I LOVE who she is and her story and her strength. And I love the girl bonds in this book because who are we without our besties? Also, Mr tall, dark, and tatted? Yes, please.

Anyways, please read this. I was a beta reader, but clearly I'm not good at it because my notes were just word vomit of how much I loved the characters and the story and this review is a mess. Just read it. Thank me later. Or don't. As long as you read it. I'll stop rambling now.

[Raven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jo’s journey in In My Boxes & Breakups Era is like discovering a sparkly treasure hidden in your own living room. She walks us from the dull hum of routine into the bright lights of owning her boutique, and perhaps, owning her story! Lola B. Marie serves up second chances, self-worth, and a dash of that dreamy UPS delivery boy charm with a side of “should I stay or shall I go?” realness. Jo’s at a crossroads, and so are we!! Only her heart gets to pick the ending. A quirky, heartfelt read that’ll make your heart ache and sing.

[Ashly Mefford · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about this book? I related to Jo on way too many levels. This kept me going on every page. The character development was amazing and Cole 🤤. 🥵 just omg god. Where can I get one of him? This is a definite read! Lola continues to throw out these amazing novellas and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

[Samantha Bosnick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a contemporary romance, friends to lovers, golden retriever, emotional abuse, mental abuse as to a woman feeling any worth in her relationship with her husband.

This is a story that I believe a lot of women and or men have felt in their marriage. They feel their marriage is at a standstill, like they don't belong or wanted by their partner. This book explores this with our FMC Jo who has come to a crossroad in her life and marriage. She is yearning for something more but not sure what it is. So she takes a leap and opens up her dream clothing boutique. Jo starts learning who she is and finding what is missing in her life. Her husband doesn't care about her new business or anything for that matter. One day she meets her new UPS Driver, Cole.

Cole is a very hot UPS delivery driver, friendly and easy to talk to. They begin a friendship. He is the perfect MMC, caring, hot, patient, and put her first as they never crossed the line until she moved on from her life. Yes, mentally and emotionally yes, but sometimes that is what someone needs.

I am going to skip a lot of this, you need to read, this book is about the bond and friendships that she gained when she decided she mattered, this is what gave her the courage to make the changes in her life and take that leap of faith.

"Relationships are like traffic lights and I just have this theory that I can only exist in a relationship if it’s a green light." - Taylor Swift

[Jurnee Mccarty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, this was so freaking good. I loved it so much. It was fun, cute and so freaking sweet. SERIOUSLY love Lola B. Marie. The friendships and just everything about it was amazing. I truly can’t wait for more from this author.

[Lola Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ava Monroe and P.G. Hammock really did an incredible job narrating! I couldn’t have asked for better voices to bring my characters to life!

[Talia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to even start?! I loved this book so much. It was a quick, charming read and offered a lovely reflection on a woman rediscovering herself. Not only did the plot hit me in the feels but the chapters are Taylor Swift lyrics and Jo is a fellow “swiftie” so I adored that too.

[Stephanie Manzano · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story just tugged at my heart strings. This was different from the first book by Lola but still had the same effect of emotions and pull that her first book portrayed. The FMC, Josephine, had a relatable struggle that many face when being in a marriage with a spouse that sticks to the traditional way of marriage (men work and the women cooks & cleans) and doesn't want change from that. The process of finding yourself and realizing you deserve to have your dreams and your voice heard was emulated in this character. I like how realistic the process in finding yourself was in this story with Josephine but also Cole (MMC). He was such a dreamy guy that understood and was patient. He was also a great character that complimented Josephine but also showed his struggles with the whole situation. AH! I really enjoyed this read and also love how much Lola can pack in such a short amount of pages.

[hazel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would rate this book a 3-4 stars. I am not one that usually reads books that are relatable or closer to real life situations however this books was able to pull some tears out of me from the emotional ways of the fmc finding her way through life with her broken marriage. As well as her friends and the mmc that she gains interest in.