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Only Magic in the Building #8
The Escape Plan
When there’s no escaping the plans life has for you…
Beckett McCarthy’s beloved Gran always taught him to find magic in mundane, everyday things. But since she died, he no longer feels any magic.
In fact, he feels nothing at all.
So, when he has an opportunity to spend a summer abroad in Serendipity Springs, he’s expecting little more than a change in scenery.
Until Keeley Roberts—quite literally—falls into his life.
From their first chaotic encounter in a stuck elevator, Beckett and Keeley can’t seem to stay apart.
Not that Becks is complaining. He’s enchanted by his beautiful, feisty new neighbor; drawn to her in a way he can’t explain... until they discover an invisible string that’s been connecting them all this time.
It’s as if fate itself has conspired to bring them together.
But with Beckett soon returning to Ireland and Keeley’s dream job hanging by a thread, is fate enough to keep their love alive… or will they need a little magic?
Beckett McCarthy’s beloved Gran always taught him to find magic in mundane, everyday things. But since she died, he no longer feels any magic.
In fact, he feels nothing at all.
So, when he has an opportunity to spend a summer abroad in Serendipity Springs, he’s expecting little more than a change in scenery.
Until Keeley Roberts—quite literally—falls into his life.
From their first chaotic encounter in a stuck elevator, Beckett and Keeley can’t seem to stay apart.
Not that Becks is complaining. He’s enchanted by his beautiful, feisty new neighbor; drawn to her in a way he can’t explain... until they discover an invisible string that’s been connecting them all this time.
It’s as if fate itself has conspired to bring them together.
But with Beckett soon returning to Ireland and Keeley’s dream job hanging by a thread, is fate enough to keep their love alive… or will they need a little magic?
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2025
382 people are currently reading
2159 people want to read
About the author
Katie Bailey
9 books2,543 followersKatie Bailey is an Amazon top 25 bestselling author of rom coms with relatable characters and tons of chemistry. Her aim with every new love story she writes is to give readers a good laugh, maybe even a bit of a cry, but definitely leave them with a new book boyfriend.
When she’s not busy writing, Katie spends her time chasing twin tornado littles, cursing the cold Canadian winters she endures each year, chugging coffee by the bucketload, and crushing on her husband, who’s the real life inspiration behind all of the fictional men she’s written.
You can connect with Katie on Instagram @authorkatiebailey
When she’s not busy writing, Katie spends her time chasing twin tornado littles, cursing the cold Canadian winters she endures each year, chugging coffee by the bucketload, and crushing on her husband, who’s the real life inspiration behind all of the fictional men she’s written.
You can connect with Katie on Instagram @authorkatiebailey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
April 23, 2025
4 Serendipitous Stars ⭐️
Spicy Level: 0/5 (Only kissing)
Keeley has sworn off love after a recent breakup with her long-term boyfriend. On a day when everything seems to be going wrong, wearing nothing but a towel, she finds herself serendipitously trapped in an elevator with Beckett. Beckett is new to Serendipity Springs, visiting from Ireland for the summer to learn more about his grandmother’s past and work through the grief of her passing. Oh... he also happens to be Keeley’s next-door neighbour. As time goes on, fate, ironic luck, or maybe just a healthy dose of serendipity keeps throwing them together. They’re constantly getting locked in, locked out, or stuck in the same place. And as they find themselves in these unexpected moments, they discover a surprising shared history between their grandparents, as well as the spark of something that could turn into a flourishing romantic future. Maybe their serendipitous meeting is exactly what they both needed.
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
It’s impossible to read a book by Katie Bailey without a permanent smile on your face. This was whimsical, cute, and adorable, basically just a fun time filled with sweet banter and wholesome interactions between two people who may not have been perfect for their previous partners, but are absolutely perfect for each other.
Keeley is your typical girl next door: eager to help her friends and loved ones, with a heart the size of the moon. And Beckett? He’s the kind of guy who actually listens, grounded and level-headed, while also being an adorable flirt and charmer... IT MUST BE THE IRISH CHARM, BECAUSE HE DEFINATELY CHARMED ME!!!!
Basically, this book feels like a Hallmark movie in book form, and I swear my imagination played magical musical twinkles every time they got stuck together in some ridiculous situation. The tension is soft but swoony, and everything from the town, characters, friends and building just warm your heart!
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Small Town Romance
▶ Dual POV
▶ Neighbours to Lovers
▶ Strangers to Friends to Lovers
▶ Magical Realism
▶ Golder Retreiver MMC
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Fade to Black/Closed Door
▶ He Falls First
▶ Irish MMC 🍀
𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ Kissing in the Rain
▷ He Brings Her Food
▷ Cages her with his arms
▷ Surnames for Nicknames
▷ Under table touching
Basically if you want a sweet, cute strangers to lovers, neighbours, small town romance with slight magical elements that will make you smile, then The ESCAPE Plan is for you!
Thank you to Katie Bailey and Booked with the Emily's for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spicy Level: 0/5 (Only kissing)
"You're everything I want, everything I never knew I needed"𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
Keeley has sworn off love after a recent breakup with her long-term boyfriend. On a day when everything seems to be going wrong, wearing nothing but a towel, she finds herself serendipitously trapped in an elevator with Beckett. Beckett is new to Serendipity Springs, visiting from Ireland for the summer to learn more about his grandmother’s past and work through the grief of her passing. Oh... he also happens to be Keeley’s next-door neighbour. As time goes on, fate, ironic luck, or maybe just a healthy dose of serendipity keeps throwing them together. They’re constantly getting locked in, locked out, or stuck in the same place. And as they find themselves in these unexpected moments, they discover a surprising shared history between their grandparents, as well as the spark of something that could turn into a flourishing romantic future. Maybe their serendipitous meeting is exactly what they both needed.
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
It’s impossible to read a book by Katie Bailey without a permanent smile on your face. This was whimsical, cute, and adorable, basically just a fun time filled with sweet banter and wholesome interactions between two people who may not have been perfect for their previous partners, but are absolutely perfect for each other.
Keeley is your typical girl next door: eager to help her friends and loved ones, with a heart the size of the moon. And Beckett? He’s the kind of guy who actually listens, grounded and level-headed, while also being an adorable flirt and charmer... IT MUST BE THE IRISH CHARM, BECAUSE HE DEFINATELY CHARMED ME!!!!
Basically, this book feels like a Hallmark movie in book form, and I swear my imagination played magical musical twinkles every time they got stuck together in some ridiculous situation. The tension is soft but swoony, and everything from the town, characters, friends and building just warm your heart!
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Small Town Romance
▶ Dual POV
▶ Neighbours to Lovers
▶ Strangers to Friends to Lovers
▶ Magical Realism
▶ Golder Retreiver MMC
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Fade to Black/Closed Door
▶ He Falls First
▶ Irish MMC 🍀
𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ Kissing in the Rain
▷ He Brings Her Food
▷ Cages her with his arms
▷ Surnames for Nicknames
▷ Under table touching
Basically if you want a sweet, cute strangers to lovers, neighbours, small town romance with slight magical elements that will make you smile, then The ESCAPE Plan is for you!
Thank you to Katie Bailey and Booked with the Emily's for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 25, 2025
This book was SO stinkin’ cute, and I loved every second!
Katie Bailey worked her magic with this one. A charming, slightly quirky building, Beckett and Keeley getting stuck together over and over, and just the right amount of mystery to keep things fun. Their chemistry sizzled from page one, and the kisses? Swoon-worthy (but still sweet and clean). Add in the laugh-out-loud moments, and you’ve got the perfect wrap-up to an already fantastic series.
BECKETT. This Irish charmer totally stole my heart. He’s got the wit, the charm, the accent... and he’s the absolute sweetest to Keeley! And don’t even get me started on his family and their hilarious group texts. Loved every second.
I also loved seeing characters from the previous books pop in like one big, happy reunion. It made my heart so happy.
If you’ve been reading this series, don’t even think about skipping this one. It’s adorable, funny, and filled with swoony moments you’ll want to read again.
❤️🔥 Neighbors
❤️🔥 Strangers to Friends to Lovers
❤️🔥 Irish MMC
❤️🔥 Forced Proximity
Katie Bailey worked her magic with this one. A charming, slightly quirky building, Beckett and Keeley getting stuck together over and over, and just the right amount of mystery to keep things fun. Their chemistry sizzled from page one, and the kisses? Swoon-worthy (but still sweet and clean). Add in the laugh-out-loud moments, and you’ve got the perfect wrap-up to an already fantastic series.
BECKETT. This Irish charmer totally stole my heart. He’s got the wit, the charm, the accent... and he’s the absolute sweetest to Keeley! And don’t even get me started on his family and their hilarious group texts. Loved every second.
I also loved seeing characters from the previous books pop in like one big, happy reunion. It made my heart so happy.
If you’ve been reading this series, don’t even think about skipping this one. It’s adorable, funny, and filled with swoony moments you’ll want to read again.
❤️🔥 Neighbors
❤️🔥 Strangers to Friends to Lovers
❤️🔥 Irish MMC
❤️🔥 Forced Proximity
May 5, 2025
Awee Becks & Keels — what’s for you won’t pass you.
Their instant connection was so cute! And I love that it didn’t feel like insta love. They really became friends first and laid a great foundation for their relationship.
They just felt *right* for each other, even though they fought it for a bit.
I loved finding out their family’s history and how life really does have a way of working things out in the long run. Their adventure to find out more about their grandparents’ story was a fun addition to the story.
I really enjoyed the themes of learning to love life again, and not just surviving through it.
The Irish MMC was a fun touch too! 😉
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
Their instant connection was so cute! And I love that it didn’t feel like insta love. They really became friends first and laid a great foundation for their relationship.
They just felt *right* for each other, even though they fought it for a bit.
I loved finding out their family’s history and how life really does have a way of working things out in the long run. Their adventure to find out more about their grandparents’ story was a fun addition to the story.
I really enjoyed the themes of learning to love life again, and not just surviving through it.
The Irish MMC was a fun touch too! 😉
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
September 30, 2025
I loved this final installment in the series. This works as a standalone, although I highly recommend you read all eight books in this series. In this case, our main characters, always get stuck in an elevator because the building is trying to get them together. There’s a little bit of a mystery because their grandparents were once involved in the 1960s as a couple. The male main character is from Ireland and there are so many really funny parts with his Irish family, and the differences between American and Irish culture. When his brother Callum takes him to a Boston Red Sox game, the setting has immaculate vibes. I read it in one sitting. Highly recommend!
April 23, 2025
This was such a fun read! I don’t usually go for magical stories, but this one hit the perfect balance and the love story? It's so sweet and heartfelt.
Becks heads to Serendipity Springs for the summer, still grieving the loss of his grandma and feeling like the magic in life disappeared with her. But Serendipity has other plans... especially when he meets Keeley. Their meet-cute might seem like fate, but in this apartment, nothing is ever just a coincidence.
Keeley’s all about her career and ready to leave Serendipity behind. Falling for a charming Irish musician wasn’t on the agenda. But there's something pushing them together, and to move forward, they’ll both have to face the past.
These two... The chemistry is off the charts. From deep convos to stolen kisses in the rain, I loved every second of their connection.
What You’ll Find:
- Next door neighbors
- Kissing in the rain
- Strangers to lovers
- Irish charm
- A sprinkle of magic
- Sweet mystery
- Closed-door romance
- Dreamy, intentional dates
I received a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
Becks heads to Serendipity Springs for the summer, still grieving the loss of his grandma and feeling like the magic in life disappeared with her. But Serendipity has other plans... especially when he meets Keeley. Their meet-cute might seem like fate, but in this apartment, nothing is ever just a coincidence.
Keeley’s all about her career and ready to leave Serendipity behind. Falling for a charming Irish musician wasn’t on the agenda. But there's something pushing them together, and to move forward, they’ll both have to face the past.
These two... The chemistry is off the charts. From deep convos to stolen kisses in the rain, I loved every second of their connection.
What You’ll Find:
- Next door neighbors
- Kissing in the rain
- Strangers to lovers
- Irish charm
- A sprinkle of magic
- Sweet mystery
- Closed-door romance
- Dreamy, intentional dates
I received a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
April 24, 2025
All the love for this one! This series has been so much fun, and The Escape plan is a fantastic ending to it.
It was funny, sweet, and oh-so romantic. I loved Beckett and Keeley, and the way the building worked its magic to get them together. I loved how their grandparents were involved in the story, and also the inclusion of some Irish lore, history, and slang. Great craic!
You can expect—
A stuck elevator meet cute
Late night dates on the fire escape
Scary ducks :-)
Forced proximity
Fated to meet
He writes a song for her
Magical realism
Kisses only
This is book 8 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
It was funny, sweet, and oh-so romantic. I loved Beckett and Keeley, and the way the building worked its magic to get them together. I loved how their grandparents were involved in the story, and also the inclusion of some Irish lore, history, and slang. Great craic!
You can expect—
A stuck elevator meet cute
Late night dates on the fire escape
Scary ducks :-)
Forced proximity
Fated to meet
He writes a song for her
Magical realism
Kisses only
This is book 8 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
May 1, 2025
This is the final book in the Only Magic in the Building series and can be read as a standalone. It is Keeley and Beckett's story. It had dual POV, with a little magic and good banter. It was a fun read.
April 19, 2025
Ahhh! The eighth and final book in the Only Magic in the Building series was the perfect ending to an incredible lineup of stories filled with magical realism, whimsy, fun, and the sweetest love stories!
Beckett is on holiday from Ireland and is house sitting in Serendipity Springs for the summer. When he meets Keeley in the elevator at the Serendipity, wrapped only in a towel, it’s just the beginning of their unexpected encounters that feel like some sort or magic is forcing them together.
Becks and Keeley are so. dang. cute! I loved their meet-cute and all the times they end up locked in, locked out, and stuck in the same place together! Where was the luck of the Irish when they needed it? Or maybe that’s exactly what it was, well, that and a little help from the Serendipity!
I loved the meet cute, the Irish lingo, Beck’s siblings and mam, the forced proximity, the indie music night, seeing Cash and Nori, the ice cream date, the kiss in the rain, the mystery & story of Grams & Noeleen, and Joe crazy these two were about each other!
Quotes to love:
“The melody may have died on my fingertips when I realized her presence, but the air is still taut with that magical feeling, like something could happen at any moment. And while I have no idea what that something could be, I realize I want to find out.”
““Hello, Beckett.” Cool as a cucumber (yeah, more like hot as a chili pepper)”
“Because despite what might be all my best instincts, I have just realized right this second that ripped jeans and Converse sneakers are my kryptonite.”
Beckett is on holiday from Ireland and is house sitting in Serendipity Springs for the summer. When he meets Keeley in the elevator at the Serendipity, wrapped only in a towel, it’s just the beginning of their unexpected encounters that feel like some sort or magic is forcing them together.
Becks and Keeley are so. dang. cute! I loved their meet-cute and all the times they end up locked in, locked out, and stuck in the same place together! Where was the luck of the Irish when they needed it? Or maybe that’s exactly what it was, well, that and a little help from the Serendipity!
I loved the meet cute, the Irish lingo, Beck’s siblings and mam, the forced proximity, the indie music night, seeing Cash and Nori, the ice cream date, the kiss in the rain, the mystery & story of Grams & Noeleen, and Joe crazy these two were about each other!
Quotes to love:
“The melody may have died on my fingertips when I realized her presence, but the air is still taut with that magical feeling, like something could happen at any moment. And while I have no idea what that something could be, I realize I want to find out.”
““Hello, Beckett.” Cool as a cucumber (yeah, more like hot as a chili pepper)”
“Because despite what might be all my best instincts, I have just realized right this second that ripped jeans and Converse sneakers are my kryptonite.”
May 11, 2025
“Yet, somewhere on this journey, I fell head-over-heels into a summer love I didn’t believe would–could–happen to me.”
Irishman Beckett and adorable Keely have the cutest story ever and the ways they kept running into one another at first–in various states of undress–had me laughing so hard. Throw into the mix a slightly magical building with unreliable locks and I was captured.
I’ve thrived with this series and fell head-over-heels for this final book. The opposites-attract vibe of this story, with its strings of fate woven throughout, drew me right in and allowed me to indulge myself for one last time in the magical elements this series has created. I loved how chains were broken, electric chemistry was snagged, and connections were grasped, and even unraveled while simultaneously seized.
Katie Bailey delivers an undeniable sweet and steady romcom that infiltrates every dark corner of my heart, giving me that rush of adrenaline that comes with a favorite story. I loved seeing snippets of past favorite couples and meeting a whole new cast of beloved characters.
So many laughs, so many swoons, and even a few tears. Every page is a treasure.
Content: mild romance; some light innuendo
*I received a complimentary copy, but also borrowed a copy from KU. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given*
Irishman Beckett and adorable Keely have the cutest story ever and the ways they kept running into one another at first–in various states of undress–had me laughing so hard. Throw into the mix a slightly magical building with unreliable locks and I was captured.
I’ve thrived with this series and fell head-over-heels for this final book. The opposites-attract vibe of this story, with its strings of fate woven throughout, drew me right in and allowed me to indulge myself for one last time in the magical elements this series has created. I loved how chains were broken, electric chemistry was snagged, and connections were grasped, and even unraveled while simultaneously seized.
Katie Bailey delivers an undeniable sweet and steady romcom that infiltrates every dark corner of my heart, giving me that rush of adrenaline that comes with a favorite story. I loved seeing snippets of past favorite couples and meeting a whole new cast of beloved characters.
So many laughs, so many swoons, and even a few tears. Every page is a treasure.
Content: mild romance; some light innuendo
*I received a complimentary copy, but also borrowed a copy from KU. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given*
June 3, 2025
We saved the best for last!!! I think this book might be my new favorite of the whole series🥳😍
Let’s just start with stinkin’ Becks?!?! 👏🏻💯❤️🩹 I LOVE THIS BOOK BOYFRIEND! He was so genuine, humble, thoughtful, and kind - the way he loved Keeley throughout the book was so gentle and just melted my heart!
Keeley is a VIBE🫶🏻✨ I flippin’ ADORE HER and I loved her spunk and zeal for life - I loved how deeply she felt her emotions and how hard she loved people. I really resonated with her as a FMC and saw a lot of myself in how she expressed her emotions and fears about relationships.
The character growth that Keeley and Becks went through was so well done and thorough, as a reader, it was satisfying to watch them grow throughout the book in a way that was inspired by the other person, but not DEPENDENT on them as a character.
Katie Bailey did an amazing job showing the magical, whimsical side of the Serendipity in this book and made it an undeniable part of the plot! It was a perfect conclusion to the series🥹
Highly recommend “The Escape Plan” 🥰⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Let’s just start with stinkin’ Becks?!?! 👏🏻💯❤️🩹 I LOVE THIS BOOK BOYFRIEND! He was so genuine, humble, thoughtful, and kind - the way he loved Keeley throughout the book was so gentle and just melted my heart!
Keeley is a VIBE🫶🏻✨ I flippin’ ADORE HER and I loved her spunk and zeal for life - I loved how deeply she felt her emotions and how hard she loved people. I really resonated with her as a FMC and saw a lot of myself in how she expressed her emotions and fears about relationships.
The character growth that Keeley and Becks went through was so well done and thorough, as a reader, it was satisfying to watch them grow throughout the book in a way that was inspired by the other person, but not DEPENDENT on them as a character.
Katie Bailey did an amazing job showing the magical, whimsical side of the Serendipity in this book and made it an undeniable part of the plot! It was a perfect conclusion to the series🥹
Highly recommend “The Escape Plan” 🥰⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 25, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5
Okay, this was absolutely adorable! I loved Beckett (he’s IRISH 😍) and Keeley. Their meet cute was hilarious and the subtlety of the magical realism aspect of the book was perfectly done. I appreciated that it wasn’t a source of conflict and instead brought these two love birds together.
I also really enjoyed the bit of mystery surrounding Becks and Keeley’s grandparents. They both grew a lot from what they learned and it helped them figure out what they truly wanted.
Katie’s books also have some of the BEST kissing scenes and this one was no exception! 🔥🤌🏻
Content: kissing
Okay, this was absolutely adorable! I loved Beckett (he’s IRISH 😍) and Keeley. Their meet cute was hilarious and the subtlety of the magical realism aspect of the book was perfectly done. I appreciated that it wasn’t a source of conflict and instead brought these two love birds together.
I also really enjoyed the bit of mystery surrounding Becks and Keeley’s grandparents. They both grew a lot from what they learned and it helped them figure out what they truly wanted.
Katie’s books also have some of the BEST kissing scenes and this one was no exception! 🔥🤌🏻
Content: kissing
Read
September 26, 2025The Irish hero was what originally sold me. 😂 The world of the Serendipity is charming and amusing at the same time. And I really loved the musician angle for some reason!
The romance is more romance-y than my personal preference enjoyed, and I did struggle to fully engage with the story, but I’m pretty sure that’s one me due to a reading slump.
But this series has been loads of fun! Almost halfway through and it’s cute. 🥰
Content: make outs; mild language; lots of “universe” and “fate” talk
The romance is more romance-y than my personal preference enjoyed, and I did struggle to fully engage with the story, but I’m pretty sure that’s one me due to a reading slump.
But this series has been loads of fun! Almost halfway through and it’s cute. 🥰
Content: make outs; mild language; lots of “universe” and “fate” talk
October 25, 2025
i loved it!! beckett mccarthy>>> 😻😻
now lemme go work on my essay...
- - - - - - - -
pre-read .☘︎ ݁˖
excited to read this one!!! <33
now lemme go work on my essay...
- - - - - - - -
pre-read .☘︎ ݁˖
excited to read this one!!! <33
May 26, 2025
SEND ME TO IRELAND.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I enjoyed this book so much. I thought it was a good wrap-up to the series (and can still totally be read alone, the epilogue in this one just highlights the previous couples a little).
I loved the magical realism aspect. I thought it was subtle and made the moment just right. All of the times they ended up locked in together caused an incredible amount of chemistry and connection to form. It was swoony and heated and I think Katie Bailey has some of the best kissing scenes around.
The journey was good and I looooved Beckett and his family. A rambunctious bunch who loved so big and I appreciated how they helped Beckett realize he needed to start living his life for him. And I loved Keeley’s arc too. She is spunky and fun and learned to let go of some past hurt to have a fulfilling relationship with Beckett.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance + Magical Realism
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I enjoyed this book so much. I thought it was a good wrap-up to the series (and can still totally be read alone, the epilogue in this one just highlights the previous couples a little).
I loved the magical realism aspect. I thought it was subtle and made the moment just right. All of the times they ended up locked in together caused an incredible amount of chemistry and connection to form. It was swoony and heated and I think Katie Bailey has some of the best kissing scenes around.
The journey was good and I looooved Beckett and his family. A rambunctious bunch who loved so big and I appreciated how they helped Beckett realize he needed to start living his life for him. And I loved Keeley’s arc too. She is spunky and fun and learned to let go of some past hurt to have a fulfilling relationship with Beckett.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance + Magical Realism
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
May 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
“𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
This was definitely another fast favorite of mine in the Only Magic in the Building series—an excellent ending to the series! Beckett quickly hooked me into the story with his charming Irish accent and hilarious family. I love watching The Serendipity act as a meddling matchmaker to get couples together, and it managed to do a fine job of it in this book by locking Keeley and Beckett in random places together 🤭
Okay, this book had one of the funniest meet-cutes in this series, hands down! The towel in the elevator, along with the Mayo exchange, had me about dying of laughter 😂 Leave it to Katie Bailey to write a hilarious story that has me in stitches moments after it begins!
Beckett & Keeley were so good together! She was his kryptonite, and he looked at her as though she was his whole world ♥️ (swoon) Keeley had zero chance of not falling for her new Irish neighbor who happened to be an absolute stunner and a flirt—especially when he whipped out his trusty guitar and strummed some tunes. But of course, we can’t forget that The Serendipity largely contributed to getting these two together. I loved watching them discover their grandparents’ secret history together as they figured out their own love story along the way!
My favorite side character in this story was most definitely Sissy Mayhew—my favorite librarian and makeup peddler. I almost lost it when she was going off about her favorite bodice-ripper romances 🤭 I’m a huge fan of the library in general, so add in an entertaining librarian and I’m sold! (Also, I loved the mention of the Warrior Cats series—I was obsessed with those books growing up!)
Read it for:
🐦⬛ Irish musician MMC
🐦⬛ Forced proximity
🐦⬛ Elevator meet-cute
🐦⬛ Kissing in the rain
🐦⬛ Late night talks
🐦⬛ The final OMITB book!
“𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
This was definitely another fast favorite of mine in the Only Magic in the Building series—an excellent ending to the series! Beckett quickly hooked me into the story with his charming Irish accent and hilarious family. I love watching The Serendipity act as a meddling matchmaker to get couples together, and it managed to do a fine job of it in this book by locking Keeley and Beckett in random places together 🤭
Okay, this book had one of the funniest meet-cutes in this series, hands down! The towel in the elevator, along with the Mayo exchange, had me about dying of laughter 😂 Leave it to Katie Bailey to write a hilarious story that has me in stitches moments after it begins!
Beckett & Keeley were so good together! She was his kryptonite, and he looked at her as though she was his whole world ♥️ (swoon) Keeley had zero chance of not falling for her new Irish neighbor who happened to be an absolute stunner and a flirt—especially when he whipped out his trusty guitar and strummed some tunes. But of course, we can’t forget that The Serendipity largely contributed to getting these two together. I loved watching them discover their grandparents’ secret history together as they figured out their own love story along the way!
My favorite side character in this story was most definitely Sissy Mayhew—my favorite librarian and makeup peddler. I almost lost it when she was going off about her favorite bodice-ripper romances 🤭 I’m a huge fan of the library in general, so add in an entertaining librarian and I’m sold! (Also, I loved the mention of the Warrior Cats series—I was obsessed with those books growing up!)
Read it for:
🐦⬛ Irish musician MMC
🐦⬛ Forced proximity
🐦⬛ Elevator meet-cute
🐦⬛ Kissing in the rain
🐦⬛ Late night talks
🐦⬛ The final OMITB book!
May 9, 2025
(4.5 stars) Huge thanks to Katie Bailey and Booked with the Emilys for the gifted copy of this heartwarming, magical, and slow-burn romance—the eighth and final installment in the Only Magic in the Building series!
Beckett McCarthy is grieving the loss of his beloved grandmother, the one person who always reminded him to seek out the magic in life. So when he has the chance to visit Serendipity Springs, Massachusetts, the quirky town where she went to college, he takes it. What he doesn’t expect? A near-naked run-in with a gorgeous neighbor, Keeley Roberts, moments after arriving at his new apartment building.
Keeley and Beckett quickly realize that their charming (and very nosy) apartment building seems to have a mind of its own - trapping them in elevators, locking them on balconies, and generally conspiring to push them together. As their connection deepens, so does the mystery of their intertwined pasts… and the building’s magical role in bringing them together.
As always, Katie Bailey delivers a warm, romantic story with just the right dose of vulnerability. I adored Beckett and Keeley’s banter, the emotional growth they each experienced, and the delightful cast of residents whose stories I now need to go back and read. This was the first book I’ve read in the series and now I can’t wait to start from the beginning. If you love found family, magical realism, and soft-but-swoony heroes, this one is for you. ✨ Bonus: Grandparent backstories that will make you emotional.
Beckett McCarthy is grieving the loss of his beloved grandmother, the one person who always reminded him to seek out the magic in life. So when he has the chance to visit Serendipity Springs, Massachusetts, the quirky town where she went to college, he takes it. What he doesn’t expect? A near-naked run-in with a gorgeous neighbor, Keeley Roberts, moments after arriving at his new apartment building.
Keeley and Beckett quickly realize that their charming (and very nosy) apartment building seems to have a mind of its own - trapping them in elevators, locking them on balconies, and generally conspiring to push them together. As their connection deepens, so does the mystery of their intertwined pasts… and the building’s magical role in bringing them together.
As always, Katie Bailey delivers a warm, romantic story with just the right dose of vulnerability. I adored Beckett and Keeley’s banter, the emotional growth they each experienced, and the delightful cast of residents whose stories I now need to go back and read. This was the first book I’ve read in the series and now I can’t wait to start from the beginning. If you love found family, magical realism, and soft-but-swoony heroes, this one is for you. ✨ Bonus: Grandparent backstories that will make you emotional.
May 4, 2025
This was such a sweet and perfect ending to this series. I have truly adored every book I’ve read in this series and this one was no exception.
The meet cute in this one had me cackling. It was perfect and I loved how the building played matchmaker in this one, continuously throwing Keeley and Beckett together. I loved the mystery in this one and how Keeley and Beckett worked together to learn about a past story that tied the two of them together. Also Beckett is such a romantic and maybe we need more Irish MMCs in our lives because he was funny and so sweet. I also absolutely loved Keeley’s brother and thought he gave her some of the absolute best advice. Also Katie Bailey knows how to write a water kiss (this time in the rain…so swoony)
This one was so adorable and I thought it ended the whole series so nicely. If you haven’t read this series yet I definitely recommend it !
Now to sit and wait not so patiently for Rookie Season to get here.
👍🏻Read If You Like:
•magical realism
•next door neighbors
•Irishmen
•invisible string
🛑Content Warnings:
•grief over grandmother’s passing
•grandfather with dementia
•parental abandonment (in past)
🚪Closed Door Romance
The meet cute in this one had me cackling. It was perfect and I loved how the building played matchmaker in this one, continuously throwing Keeley and Beckett together. I loved the mystery in this one and how Keeley and Beckett worked together to learn about a past story that tied the two of them together. Also Beckett is such a romantic and maybe we need more Irish MMCs in our lives because he was funny and so sweet. I also absolutely loved Keeley’s brother and thought he gave her some of the absolute best advice. Also Katie Bailey knows how to write a water kiss (this time in the rain…so swoony)
This one was so adorable and I thought it ended the whole series so nicely. If you haven’t read this series yet I definitely recommend it !
Now to sit and wait not so patiently for Rookie Season to get here.
👍🏻Read If You Like:
•magical realism
•next door neighbors
•Irishmen
•invisible string
🛑Content Warnings:
•grief over grandmother’s passing
•grandfather with dementia
•parental abandonment (in past)
🚪Closed Door Romance
April 18, 2025
Short Synopsis:
Keeley Roberts is getting over a breakup. The last thing she wants to think about is love. That is until she quite literally falls into Beckett McCarthy in the best elevator meet cute. Beckett is grieving his gran, so decides to spend the summer in America at the magical Serendipity Springs - where his gran went to college.
My Thoughts:
Is it possible I have a new favorite Katie Bailey MMC? I never thought that was possible. Please don’t tell Seb. But Beckett. He’s Irish. A musician. Full of smirks and witty banter. I also adored Keeley so much. And the two of them? 🔥 And their connection - emotionally and family history connection - was just a delight to read. Katie writes the most fantastic water kisses, and the rain kiss in this one was so good.
There’s a heavier theme in THE ESCAPE PLAN compared to Katie’s previous novels. But she executes themes of loss and grief expertly.
THE ESCAPE PLAN has everything I love in a romance and especially a Katie Bailey romance - swoony moments, witty banter, a water kiss, Taylor Swift lyrics, and two MCs to adore.
Highly, highly recommend this one.
What You’ll Find:
Irish man
Kissing in the rain
Forced proximity
Next door neighbors
Magical building
Keeley Roberts is getting over a breakup. The last thing she wants to think about is love. That is until she quite literally falls into Beckett McCarthy in the best elevator meet cute. Beckett is grieving his gran, so decides to spend the summer in America at the magical Serendipity Springs - where his gran went to college.
My Thoughts:
Is it possible I have a new favorite Katie Bailey MMC? I never thought that was possible. Please don’t tell Seb. But Beckett. He’s Irish. A musician. Full of smirks and witty banter. I also adored Keeley so much. And the two of them? 🔥 And their connection - emotionally and family history connection - was just a delight to read. Katie writes the most fantastic water kisses, and the rain kiss in this one was so good.
There’s a heavier theme in THE ESCAPE PLAN compared to Katie’s previous novels. But she executes themes of loss and grief expertly.
THE ESCAPE PLAN has everything I love in a romance and especially a Katie Bailey romance - swoony moments, witty banter, a water kiss, Taylor Swift lyrics, and two MCs to adore.
Highly, highly recommend this one.
What You’ll Find:
Irish man
Kissing in the rain
Forced proximity
Next door neighbors
Magical building
April 27, 2025
Thank you Booked With the Emily’s and the author for the review copy.
“And when you really love someone, they will always be worth choosing. To the point that your fears of what you could lose in the process will come second to making that choice.”
I’m loving the stories in the Only Magic in the Building series, and while The Escape Plan is the final release, it can be read as a standalone so feel free to jump in for a light dash of magical whimsy with some seriously swoony romance.
Do not skip this one if you are a fan of:
Irish musician MMC
Next door neighbors
Strangers to friends to lovers
Tons of Irish charm
Magical elements
Kissing in the rain
A hint of family mystery
Closed door romance
I’m such a sucker for a selfless hero, and Beckett has been holding his family together for as long as he can remember, especially following the passing of his grandmother. Keeley is moving on from her ex boyfriend as best as one can, running into him at every turn. From their clumsy meet disaster to the ways their paths keep crossing – both in their shared apartment and in the small town – it’s not hard to see how they are so well matched and inevitable as a pair. I love a good fate-inspired romance, and this one hit all the marks.
“And when you really love someone, they will always be worth choosing. To the point that your fears of what you could lose in the process will come second to making that choice.”
I’m loving the stories in the Only Magic in the Building series, and while The Escape Plan is the final release, it can be read as a standalone so feel free to jump in for a light dash of magical whimsy with some seriously swoony romance.
Do not skip this one if you are a fan of:
Irish musician MMC
Next door neighbors
Strangers to friends to lovers
Tons of Irish charm
Magical elements
Kissing in the rain
A hint of family mystery
Closed door romance
I’m such a sucker for a selfless hero, and Beckett has been holding his family together for as long as he can remember, especially following the passing of his grandmother. Keeley is moving on from her ex boyfriend as best as one can, running into him at every turn. From their clumsy meet disaster to the ways their paths keep crossing – both in their shared apartment and in the small town – it’s not hard to see how they are so well matched and inevitable as a pair. I love a good fate-inspired romance, and this one hit all the marks.
April 29, 2025
What a wonderful way to round out the series 🥰 The little bit of mystery was a fun addition, and the story of their grandparents was so touching. Honestly, if I didn’t know that these books would all have happy endings, I would have been a little more worried for Keeley and Beckett! This was just a story to make you feel good ❤️
July 31, 2025
what an incredible series. any chance there might be a vacancy in the serendipity?
May 29, 2025
Katie Bailey, your words really have the power to make me spend an irresponsible amount of money...
Thank you, Partner, @bookedwiththeemilys @authorkatiebailey for the #gifted copy of "The Escape Plan"
But asking for a friend, is it not alright to buy the rest of this series?? (Seriously, that firefighter book needs to be in my life)
What sucked me in? The m a g i c a l apartment! I am obsessed with this idea that the residents are guided by the building into falling in love. Yeah, I know! It's filled with sparkles and swoon. I need more.
My favorite favorite favorite part about this book is the lil bit o mystery that was tied into the romance. I loved exploring Serendipity Springs with Keeley and Beckett to find answers about his grandmothers life in America. The past and present colliding was delicious. I couldn't get enough of it. Like, Katie, do us a favor... a short story that's a date night with grandma and grandpa!
Closed door romances always have a special place in my heart because they feel like adult Disney princess movies. You're guaranteed the kindest love interest. You'll get a female character who grows but has the strength of a wildebeest. Don't even get me started on the dates!!! *squealing* Keeley and Becks went on the best outings. Ice cream? Kisses in the rain? Quiet talks under fairy lights with dinner? I'm just... *sigh*
"The Escape Plan" will put a smile on your face & probably make you want to book a ticket to Ireland. (Or if you're aggressively unhinged, buy the rest of this whimsical romance series) So, if you need a sprinkle of joy and light in your life, look no further than Katie Bailey
✨️ Magical
🩵 Irish Charm
✨️ Strangers to Friends to Lovers
🩵 Closed Door
✨️ Past connecting with Present
🩵 Swoony Dates
Thank you, Partner, @bookedwiththeemilys @authorkatiebailey for the #gifted copy of "The Escape Plan"
But asking for a friend, is it not alright to buy the rest of this series?? (Seriously, that firefighter book needs to be in my life)
What sucked me in? The m a g i c a l apartment! I am obsessed with this idea that the residents are guided by the building into falling in love. Yeah, I know! It's filled with sparkles and swoon. I need more.
My favorite favorite favorite part about this book is the lil bit o mystery that was tied into the romance. I loved exploring Serendipity Springs with Keeley and Beckett to find answers about his grandmothers life in America. The past and present colliding was delicious. I couldn't get enough of it. Like, Katie, do us a favor... a short story that's a date night with grandma and grandpa!
Closed door romances always have a special place in my heart because they feel like adult Disney princess movies. You're guaranteed the kindest love interest. You'll get a female character who grows but has the strength of a wildebeest. Don't even get me started on the dates!!! *squealing* Keeley and Becks went on the best outings. Ice cream? Kisses in the rain? Quiet talks under fairy lights with dinner? I'm just... *sigh*
"The Escape Plan" will put a smile on your face & probably make you want to book a ticket to Ireland. (Or if you're aggressively unhinged, buy the rest of this whimsical romance series) So, if you need a sprinkle of joy and light in your life, look no further than Katie Bailey
✨️ Magical
🩵 Irish Charm
✨️ Strangers to Friends to Lovers
🩵 Closed Door
✨️ Past connecting with Present
🩵 Swoony Dates
August 31, 2025
cute and whimsical and low stakes
April 25, 2025
Thank you Booked with the Emily’s and the author for my #gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Well there’s 💯 a new book boyfriend in town and his name is Beckett McCarthy. Swoon. This book was just perfection. No notes. I caught myself smiling so many times because I just loved these two.
I loved the ties to the building and the town and to each other these two had. I absolutely loved Keeley and her development in this book. It was so fun to see her and Beckett open up to love again.
This one is out now and I think it was the perfect ending to this series, and can’t wait to go back and read the ones I haven’t yet!
Well there’s 💯 a new book boyfriend in town and his name is Beckett McCarthy. Swoon. This book was just perfection. No notes. I caught myself smiling so many times because I just loved these two.
I loved the ties to the building and the town and to each other these two had. I absolutely loved Keeley and her development in this book. It was so fun to see her and Beckett open up to love again.
This one is out now and I think it was the perfect ending to this series, and can’t wait to go back and read the ones I haven’t yet!
May 6, 2025
✨ A sweet romcom about an apt building complex that has a magical way of pushing fate along ✨
(This novel reads as a standalone but is part of an interconnected series, 8 books about different couples in the same apartment building)
Description:
After Beckett's grandmother's passing he's been feeling adrift, so when an opportunity comes up to house sit for the summer in Serendipity Springs he jumps at the chance to leave Ireland behind and visit the States.
It isn't enough that Keeley's boyfriend of 5 years dumped her and is now dating his best girl friend, but he still lives in the same building as her, her air conditioning is on the fritz in the blistering heat of summer and her job writing articles hasn't been the most fulfilling as of late. It's just her luck that she runs into her hot new neighbor when she's clad in just a towel.
Ever since that first run in, Beckett and Keeley can't seem to stay away from each other, it's almost like the building is conspiring to bring them together... Keeley knows Becks is heading back to Ireland at the end of the summer, still she can't help feeling like a moth to a flame, drawn to him, but will the inevitable burn catch up with her?
Review:
This was the kinda sweet, closed door romance that's a light and easy read. I loved reading all the compromising situations Keeley found herself in, only when she was in Beckett's presence. I always enjoy this author's banter and humor, and while I did enjoy that here I felt it leaned a little too much into the whole magical coincidental aspect of it. It was a tad too sweet/bordering on corny for my taste, and certain circumstances felt a little far fetched for my skeptical brain. I might've liked a little more tension too but it was easy to overlook cuz the characters were so endearing and because I enjoy this author's writing. It's possible I might've been able to subscribe to it more had I read the rest of the series/ at least another book in the series? I'm not sure, but might be a good idea to consider reading a few of the books in the series, if not all of them, instead of singling any one of them out.
(This novel reads as a standalone but is part of an interconnected series, 8 books about different couples in the same apartment building)
Description:
After Beckett's grandmother's passing he's been feeling adrift, so when an opportunity comes up to house sit for the summer in Serendipity Springs he jumps at the chance to leave Ireland behind and visit the States.
It isn't enough that Keeley's boyfriend of 5 years dumped her and is now dating his best girl friend, but he still lives in the same building as her, her air conditioning is on the fritz in the blistering heat of summer and her job writing articles hasn't been the most fulfilling as of late. It's just her luck that she runs into her hot new neighbor when she's clad in just a towel.
Ever since that first run in, Beckett and Keeley can't seem to stay away from each other, it's almost like the building is conspiring to bring them together... Keeley knows Becks is heading back to Ireland at the end of the summer, still she can't help feeling like a moth to a flame, drawn to him, but will the inevitable burn catch up with her?
Review:
This was the kinda sweet, closed door romance that's a light and easy read. I loved reading all the compromising situations Keeley found herself in, only when she was in Beckett's presence. I always enjoy this author's banter and humor, and while I did enjoy that here I felt it leaned a little too much into the whole magical coincidental aspect of it. It was a tad too sweet/bordering on corny for my taste, and certain circumstances felt a little far fetched for my skeptical brain. I might've liked a little more tension too but it was easy to overlook cuz the characters were so endearing and because I enjoy this author's writing. It's possible I might've been able to subscribe to it more had I read the rest of the series/ at least another book in the series? I'm not sure, but might be a good idea to consider reading a few of the books in the series, if not all of them, instead of singling any one of them out.
May 1, 2025
I have LOVED every single book Katie has written. Idk what it was about this one that just didn’t hit for me. 😭😭😭 I wanted to LOVE it so bad. It’s not that I didn’t like it. It was cute!! It’s just not going to live rent free in my head like all the others. 😭😭😭 I guess just compared to all the rest it’s just kind of meh for me. 🙁🙁🙁
May 10, 2025
#Review: *The Escape Plan* - Katie Bailey - ARC
4.6/5✨
0/5🌶️
Super glad to be part of Katie's ARC team for this little cutie. Thank you Katie and Booked With The Emilys, I had a blast reading it!🤗
This is the last book of the 'Only Magic in the Building* series, which can also be read as a standalone.
Keeley Roberts was a resident of the Serendipity apartments complex, where everything was possible. There, most precisely in the elevator, she will have a pretty hilarious encounter with her new neighbor, Beckett McCarthy. He had the opportunity to come to Serendipity Springs for the summer and it was the perfect thing for him, a chance to find his magic again, which he lost when his grandma passed away.
Neither Keeley, nor Beckett could have imagined that their connection was even more profound than they thought. They kind of felt something unique when they were in each other's presence, but the fact that Beckett was there for a short time and Keeley was about to leave to persue her dream job, made things almost impossible for them. But they will have a mysterious help, which will keep on bringing them together, in the most silly ways possible 🤭.
Ahh, I had such a great time reading this book! It was lightheaded, full of hope and fun moments. I liked that from the start we had a super cute connection between Keeley and our lovely Irish man, Beckett. This man really knew how to steal hearts without even realizing! All those little nudges the magical building kept on throwing were so much fun, enlighting the atmosphere from the entangled past their grandparents had.
One book full of surprises, in the best way possible! I went through multiple emotions while reading this book, having a pretty solid rollercoaster of moods out there. This one is perfect for hopeless romantics, who believe that everything happens for a reason.
✨Tropes
#NextDoorNeighbors
#StrangersToFriendsToLovers
#ForcedProximity
#KissingInTheRain
#TonsOfIrishCharm
#MagicalElements
#ClosedDoorRomance
4.6/5✨
0/5🌶️
Super glad to be part of Katie's ARC team for this little cutie. Thank you Katie and Booked With The Emilys, I had a blast reading it!🤗
This is the last book of the 'Only Magic in the Building* series, which can also be read as a standalone.
Keeley Roberts was a resident of the Serendipity apartments complex, where everything was possible. There, most precisely in the elevator, she will have a pretty hilarious encounter with her new neighbor, Beckett McCarthy. He had the opportunity to come to Serendipity Springs for the summer and it was the perfect thing for him, a chance to find his magic again, which he lost when his grandma passed away.
Neither Keeley, nor Beckett could have imagined that their connection was even more profound than they thought. They kind of felt something unique when they were in each other's presence, but the fact that Beckett was there for a short time and Keeley was about to leave to persue her dream job, made things almost impossible for them. But they will have a mysterious help, which will keep on bringing them together, in the most silly ways possible 🤭.
Ahh, I had such a great time reading this book! It was lightheaded, full of hope and fun moments. I liked that from the start we had a super cute connection between Keeley and our lovely Irish man, Beckett. This man really knew how to steal hearts without even realizing! All those little nudges the magical building kept on throwing were so much fun, enlighting the atmosphere from the entangled past their grandparents had.
One book full of surprises, in the best way possible! I went through multiple emotions while reading this book, having a pretty solid rollercoaster of moods out there. This one is perfect for hopeless romantics, who believe that everything happens for a reason.
✨Tropes
#NextDoorNeighbors
#StrangersToFriendsToLovers
#ForcedProximity
#KissingInTheRain
#TonsOfIrishCharm
#MagicalElements
#ClosedDoorRomance
May 1, 2025
Tropes:
next door neighbors
strangers to friends to lovers
small town
closed door romance
a meddling building
Irish musician MMC
writer FMC
Dual POV
Have you watched the TV Show Only Murders in the Building? It's one of my favorites. This book, The Escape Plan, gave me vibes from the show.... only no murder, but instead romance. However, when I pictured this grand old apartment complex called The Serendipity, I imagined The Arconia (on a smaller scale). There's a legend about The Serendipity- that people will find love in it. And this element to the story was so much fun! I absolutely adored this installment of Only Magic in the Building.
Beckett's been grieving the death of his grandmother. When the opportunity to house sit in America arises, he takes it. It just happens to be in Serendipity Springs- a place he recently discovered his grandmother had went to college. While in Serendipity, Beckett continues to have questionable encounters with local Keeley. Is it fate? Is it clumsiness? Is it the building pushing these two together?
Keeley's fresh off a break up and jaded by love. However, when a new job position opens up, Keeley is dreading writing an article on the topic they choose-- the legend of love connections within The Serendipity. But the closer she gets to Beckett, thanks building, the more she realizes the legend may have some truth to it.
What I loved about The Escape Plan, was there were 2 stories happening at once. The one between Beckett and Keeley... and one that involved a mystery of sorts between their grandparents! The whole time I just wanted to yell at Keeley that she had the story for her article in her lap, intertwining her summer romance with that of the one that took place decades earlier. It was beautiful and fun and I definitely recommend checking this one out!
next door neighbors
strangers to friends to lovers
small town
closed door romance
a meddling building
Irish musician MMC
writer FMC
Dual POV
Have you watched the TV Show Only Murders in the Building? It's one of my favorites. This book, The Escape Plan, gave me vibes from the show.... only no murder, but instead romance. However, when I pictured this grand old apartment complex called The Serendipity, I imagined The Arconia (on a smaller scale). There's a legend about The Serendipity- that people will find love in it. And this element to the story was so much fun! I absolutely adored this installment of Only Magic in the Building.
Beckett's been grieving the death of his grandmother. When the opportunity to house sit in America arises, he takes it. It just happens to be in Serendipity Springs- a place he recently discovered his grandmother had went to college. While in Serendipity, Beckett continues to have questionable encounters with local Keeley. Is it fate? Is it clumsiness? Is it the building pushing these two together?
Keeley's fresh off a break up and jaded by love. However, when a new job position opens up, Keeley is dreading writing an article on the topic they choose-- the legend of love connections within The Serendipity. But the closer she gets to Beckett, thanks building, the more she realizes the legend may have some truth to it.
What I loved about The Escape Plan, was there were 2 stories happening at once. The one between Beckett and Keeley... and one that involved a mystery of sorts between their grandparents! The whole time I just wanted to yell at Keeley that she had the story for her article in her lap, intertwining her summer romance with that of the one that took place decades earlier. It was beautiful and fun and I definitely recommend checking this one out!
May 6, 2025
Katie Bailey is one of my favorite authors. When first hearing about this series and the magic that was going to be woven in, I instantly became curious as to how the story was going to go. It did not disappoint! Not that I ever doubted Katie Bailey. If she writes it, I’m going to love it. So far, this is the only book in this series that I’ve read. So just in case you were wondering, yes, you can read the series out of order. But will you want to read the other books in the series? YES! Trust me when I say that you’ll never pick up a whole series faster than this one. To me, Katie Bailey is the queen of contemporary romance. Every single book of hers that I have read has a special place on my favorite bookshelf.
There was so much to love about The Escape Plan. The magic aspect was so beautiful and unique. From their hilarious meet-cute, I knew Beckett and Keeley would become one of my new favorite book couples. I love how Katie Bailey writes romances with so much tension, grinning-like-an-idiot moments, and SO many laugh-out-loud parts all in one book. I like to use the word comfort to describe Katie Bailey’s writing. If you’ve read her stories, you’ll understand the feeling of comfort her books bring.
I loved Keeley’s character from the beginning, and I found myself wishing throughout the story that the characters were real because I could see myself being friends with them. This is one of those books that will make you wish that you could jump into the story, live in Serendipity Springs, and become friends with the wonderful set of characters that make The Escape Plan the sweet story that it is. Beckett. He will capture your heart from the beginning and never let go. If you aren’t already in love with Beckett by the second date he surprises Keeley with, you’ll definitely fall in love with him then. That whole scene was so sweet and my favorite.
There was truly something magical about The Escape Plan. Katie Bailey has once again gifted a story filled with love, friendship, and comfort to her readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
There was so much to love about The Escape Plan. The magic aspect was so beautiful and unique. From their hilarious meet-cute, I knew Beckett and Keeley would become one of my new favorite book couples. I love how Katie Bailey writes romances with so much tension, grinning-like-an-idiot moments, and SO many laugh-out-loud parts all in one book. I like to use the word comfort to describe Katie Bailey’s writing. If you’ve read her stories, you’ll understand the feeling of comfort her books bring.
I loved Keeley’s character from the beginning, and I found myself wishing throughout the story that the characters were real because I could see myself being friends with them. This is one of those books that will make you wish that you could jump into the story, live in Serendipity Springs, and become friends with the wonderful set of characters that make The Escape Plan the sweet story that it is. Beckett. He will capture your heart from the beginning and never let go. If you aren’t already in love with Beckett by the second date he surprises Keeley with, you’ll definitely fall in love with him then. That whole scene was so sweet and my favorite.
There was truly something magical about The Escape Plan. Katie Bailey has once again gifted a story filled with love, friendship, and comfort to her readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2025
The Escape Plan by Katie Bailey was like stepping into a Hallmark movie set in a slightly enchanted building—and I mean that in the most charming way possible. It’s a cutesy, feel-good story filled with whimsy, a touch of magic, and the comforting idea that fate always has your back (and maybe your love life too).
I really enjoyed the playful, almost magical tone of the story. The idea that a building could be matchmaker-in-chief, nudging generations of couples together, gave the whole thing a fairy tale vibe that was super sweet. It made me want to believe that the universe is out there conspiring to bring us all cozy happily-ever-afters.
That said, as the story unfolded, it started to feel a little too picture-perfect. The main couple was so in sync, it got a bit hard to stay fully invested—like, where’s the tension? The flaws? And the ex-boyfriend’s sudden turn into a self-aware, apologetic nice guy felt like a stretch, especially given how he was introduced. A little too tidy for my taste.
Still, it was an enjoyable read, especially if you’re in the mood for something light, sweet, and fate-filled. I probably won’t continue with the series, but I’m glad I took this escape plan for a spin!
I really enjoyed the playful, almost magical tone of the story. The idea that a building could be matchmaker-in-chief, nudging generations of couples together, gave the whole thing a fairy tale vibe that was super sweet. It made me want to believe that the universe is out there conspiring to bring us all cozy happily-ever-afters.
That said, as the story unfolded, it started to feel a little too picture-perfect. The main couple was so in sync, it got a bit hard to stay fully invested—like, where’s the tension? The flaws? And the ex-boyfriend’s sudden turn into a self-aware, apologetic nice guy felt like a stretch, especially given how he was introduced. A little too tidy for my taste.
Still, it was an enjoyable read, especially if you’re in the mood for something light, sweet, and fate-filled. I probably won’t continue with the series, but I’m glad I took this escape plan for a spin!
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