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Best Laid Plans: A small town, brother's best friend, accidental roommates romance
The first book in a chaos-driven three-part series in which an overachieving and down-on-her-luck consultant returns home… only to run into her brother’s best friend and the crush of her teenage dreams.
Elle Pierce has always had big dreams. Which she was achieving–until her life fell out from underneath her. Jobless. Apartmentless. Boyfriendless. She returns home to Rock Harbor to live with her brother, who’s apparently running a home for wayward strays, as she realizes that her brother’s best friend and childhood crush, Cam, is also staying at the apartment.
Cam Devers has never had the luxury of thinking too far ahead. On the cusp of the next step in his culinary career, he throws it all away with a well-deserved punch that changes everything. Now, he’s hiding out in Rock Harbor, forced to share an apartment with his best friend’s little sister. Who’s inconveniently not so little anymore.
Elle’s singular focus is on getting her life in Boston back, and Cam’s just trying to keep his head above water. For both of them, returning to Rock Harbor is supposed to be nothing more than a stop-over to what comes next. But they’re both about to realize that the best laid plans sometimes work out nothing like they imagined.
The quarters are close. The chemistry is sizzling. And there’s no place like home–and no man like Cam–even if he thinks that Elle’s way out of his league.
Perfect for fans
✔️ Small town romances
✔️ Brother's best friend
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Accidental roommates
✔️ Coastal New England
✔️ Sibling banter
✔️ He's a chef!
✔️ Dual POV
✔️ Third person perspective
Elle Pierce has always had big dreams. Which she was achieving–until her life fell out from underneath her. Jobless. Apartmentless. Boyfriendless. She returns home to Rock Harbor to live with her brother, who’s apparently running a home for wayward strays, as she realizes that her brother’s best friend and childhood crush, Cam, is also staying at the apartment.
Cam Devers has never had the luxury of thinking too far ahead. On the cusp of the next step in his culinary career, he throws it all away with a well-deserved punch that changes everything. Now, he’s hiding out in Rock Harbor, forced to share an apartment with his best friend’s little sister. Who’s inconveniently not so little anymore.
Elle’s singular focus is on getting her life in Boston back, and Cam’s just trying to keep his head above water. For both of them, returning to Rock Harbor is supposed to be nothing more than a stop-over to what comes next. But they’re both about to realize that the best laid plans sometimes work out nothing like they imagined.
The quarters are close. The chemistry is sizzling. And there’s no place like home–and no man like Cam–even if he thinks that Elle’s way out of his league.
Perfect for fans
✔️ Small town romances
✔️ Brother's best friend
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Accidental roommates
✔️ Coastal New England
✔️ Sibling banter
✔️ He's a chef!
✔️ Dual POV
✔️ Third person perspective
- GenresRomanceEnemies To Lovers
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2025
31 people are currently reading
353 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 397 reviews
July 16, 2025
I am so glad I got to read an early copy of this book, and completely pull me in. Elle is such a strong, relatable character. She is fierce and knows what she wants (even if she doesn’t always say it out loud), and the dynamic between her and the love interest just worked. He knows what he wants to, but doesn’t fully believe he deserves it, and that tension was so good. I also really love the sibling bond between Wyatt and Elle. Their love for their parents and for each other, felt so real, and added so much heart to the story. This book made me laugh, got me in my feelings, a few times, and just left me feeling really happy by the end. Super sweet, funny, and totally worth the read!
June 24, 2025
I am so grateful I was able to read the ARC for this book! I loved the storyline. Elle is such a fierce strong character who in a way knows what she wants! Putting her in the plot with someone who knew what he would like or want but wasn’t great at accepting he deserves it was great and worked so well. To also have two siblings like Wyatt and Elle care for their parents so strongly but to also care so strongly for each other I loved that a lot! This story is so heart-warming, funny at times and overall very enjoyable!!!
June 23, 2025
I was very lucky to be given an ARC of this book and I was engrossed from the very beginning! 🫶🏻
Small town romance, brothers best friend, forced proximity, opposites attract, this book had everything I look for in a cozy romance!
Elle and Cam, seeing how their relationship grew and how sometimes what you’ve been looking for all along is right there in front of you!
I would highly recommend reading, available now to preorder before July 15th 💕
I can’t wait for the next two in the series, I’ll be keeping my eye out for them! 🤩
Small town romance, brothers best friend, forced proximity, opposites attract, this book had everything I look for in a cozy romance!
Elle and Cam, seeing how their relationship grew and how sometimes what you’ve been looking for all along is right there in front of you!
I would highly recommend reading, available now to preorder before July 15th 💕
I can’t wait for the next two in the series, I’ll be keeping my eye out for them! 🤩
June 24, 2025
I received an ARC of this book. Overall, I am looking forward to the next books in this series to see how all the characters fare.
I am a big fan of a brother’s best friend romance, and there was a MILD edge of enemies to lovers- they were modestly annoyed with each other in the beginning and warmed up over time.
I definitely was holding my breath any time they were hooking up in secret because it felt like the other shoe was always about to drop and someone was going to discover them.
There were definite chuckle out loud moments throughout the series, and I love a good rom-com.
I did feel like there was something about the book that I couldn’t fully connect to the characters and I think by the end I decided it was because it was dual POV but in the third person, so it never felt like I was completely taking on the character’s thoughts and feelings and immersing myself in the book. This is pretty much the only criticism I have. It had plot, it had chemistry, it had a little spice, it had humour, it had secondary characters that you want to get their stories next, so I will be absolutely looking forward to the next in the series!
I am a big fan of a brother’s best friend romance, and there was a MILD edge of enemies to lovers- they were modestly annoyed with each other in the beginning and warmed up over time.
I definitely was holding my breath any time they were hooking up in secret because it felt like the other shoe was always about to drop and someone was going to discover them.
There were definite chuckle out loud moments throughout the series, and I love a good rom-com.
I did feel like there was something about the book that I couldn’t fully connect to the characters and I think by the end I decided it was because it was dual POV but in the third person, so it never felt like I was completely taking on the character’s thoughts and feelings and immersing myself in the book. This is pretty much the only criticism I have. It had plot, it had chemistry, it had a little spice, it had humour, it had secondary characters that you want to get their stories next, so I will be absolutely looking forward to the next in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The truth is that l don't know if I'll never feel like I deserve the way you look at me, but I want to spend every day keeping that look on your face. To living up to the man you see in me."
Omg yall, I could not put this book down the moment I picked it up. The story sucked me right in because the tension and banter between Elle & Cam was literally electric!! I could not stop reading because I had to see how their story would end, and also because I couldn’t get enough of this fictional town. Rock Harbor definitely felt like some of the towns on the North Shore of MA, which I loved! The author did a wonderful and descriptive job making the setting for the story, because I would love to visit Rock Harbor!
Elle and Cam had so much chemistry with each other, that it was clear they were always going to be end game. Watching them gradually fall for each other, and then by the end of summer they’re going all in, just had me so happy. And their romance brought the spiceeeeee, it was soo good!
Overall this was just such a sweet, spicy, fun Romance that had me falling in love with all the characters and the adorable coastal town of Rock Harbor. And I cannot wait for the future books to come in the series!!
Read if you enjoy:
🦞Small Coastal New England Town
💙Brother’s best friend
🦞Forced proximity
💙Angsty & super spicy
🦞Found family
💙”Just once, to get it out of our systems”
Fave Quotes:
“Even if it would have made things simpler, he'd never lie i her like that. Because what they'd just done, how well theych together, was something akin to alchemy. They were t perfect, complementary ingredients in a recipe that had cret something truly incredible. Something that should probably i illegal.”
“Together they were a spark that threatened to burn everything down. Including themselves, in the process.
But right now, she was all warmth and soft afterglow, as she snuggled lower to bask in the sensation for as long as could, laying back down.”
“The truth is that l don't know if I'll never feel like I deserve the way you look at me, but I want to spend every day keeping that look on your face. To living up to the man you see in me."
Omg yall, I could not put this book down the moment I picked it up. The story sucked me right in because the tension and banter between Elle & Cam was literally electric!! I could not stop reading because I had to see how their story would end, and also because I couldn’t get enough of this fictional town. Rock Harbor definitely felt like some of the towns on the North Shore of MA, which I loved! The author did a wonderful and descriptive job making the setting for the story, because I would love to visit Rock Harbor!
Elle and Cam had so much chemistry with each other, that it was clear they were always going to be end game. Watching them gradually fall for each other, and then by the end of summer they’re going all in, just had me so happy. And their romance brought the spiceeeeee, it was soo good!
Overall this was just such a sweet, spicy, fun Romance that had me falling in love with all the characters and the adorable coastal town of Rock Harbor. And I cannot wait for the future books to come in the series!!
Read if you enjoy:
🦞Small Coastal New England Town
💙Brother’s best friend
🦞Forced proximity
💙Angsty & super spicy
🦞Found family
💙”Just once, to get it out of our systems”
Fave Quotes:
“Even if it would have made things simpler, he'd never lie i her like that. Because what they'd just done, how well theych together, was something akin to alchemy. They were t perfect, complementary ingredients in a recipe that had cret something truly incredible. Something that should probably i illegal.”
“Together they were a spark that threatened to burn everything down. Including themselves, in the process.
But right now, she was all warmth and soft afterglow, as she snuggled lower to bask in the sensation for as long as could, laying back down.”
June 22, 2025
**received as an ARC
i normally take major issue with people falling in love too quickly but this one i enjoyed it felt natural. would recommend. also rock harbor is NOT maine as i originally thought
i normally take major issue with people falling in love too quickly but this one i enjoyed it felt natural. would recommend. also rock harbor is NOT maine as i originally thought
June 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ARC Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna
Tropes we can’t resist ✨:
🤍 Brother’s best friend
🏡 Return to small town
👀 Forced proximity
🛏️ Accidental roommates
📝 Dual POV
🌊 Coastal New England
Elle and Cam completely stole my heart in this one. Watching Elle return to her small coastal hometown and accidentally end up as Cam’s roommate (oops 😏) was such a fun ride. Their chemistry? Off the charts. The tension? Chef’s kiss. And the meddling small-town vibes had me laughing and cheering them on.
This story felt like wrapping up in a cozy blanket by the ocean — with just enough spice to keep things extra warm. Loved the dual POV that really let me get inside both Elle and Cam’s heads and hearts.
If you’re looking for a swoony, feel-good read with a guaranteed HEA, you need this on your TBR. 💙
Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna
Tropes we can’t resist ✨:
🤍 Brother’s best friend
🏡 Return to small town
👀 Forced proximity
🛏️ Accidental roommates
📝 Dual POV
🌊 Coastal New England
Elle and Cam completely stole my heart in this one. Watching Elle return to her small coastal hometown and accidentally end up as Cam’s roommate (oops 😏) was such a fun ride. Their chemistry? Off the charts. The tension? Chef’s kiss. And the meddling small-town vibes had me laughing and cheering them on.
This story felt like wrapping up in a cozy blanket by the ocean — with just enough spice to keep things extra warm. Loved the dual POV that really let me get inside both Elle and Cam’s heads and hearts.
If you’re looking for a swoony, feel-good read with a guaranteed HEA, you need this on your TBR. 💙
Read
July 15, 2025What a great book! Elle moves home after her world falls apart. She is staying in her brother’s apartment while she focuses on repairing her life. Elle is unaware that her brother’s best friend, Cam, is also going to be staying there which initially doesn’t make her happy. It turns out they are both going through life and career upheaval. After some initial conflicts they can’t deny their attraction to each other and the chemistry between Cam and Elle is amazing and well written and the plot flows beautifully. The dialogue is strong, engaging, and entertaining. The dynamics and relationships between all the characters in the book are heartfelt and it was great to see Cam’s interactions and dedication to Elle’s family. As their relationship developed we see how supportive Elle and Cam are about each other’s dreams and career goals. I loved everything about this book! This is the first book in a three part series and I can’t wait for the next one.
July 7, 2025
What do you do when your life falls apart? You go home to lick your wounds.
What happens when your teenage crush walks in expecting to do the same thing? You hit him with a baseball bat. Well - in Elle's defense - she wasn't expecting anyone to show up while she was trying to figure out what to do next.
Cam - the Ultimate Chef winner - knows what hit him figuratively and literally. What he doesn't know is that he deserves anything good in his life. Enter Elle - to show him that he is deserving of wanting something and being happy.
This feel-good love story reminds me that you don't always have to go far to find exactly what you need. Sometimes coming home and sitting still for a moment is all the clarity you need. Mallory McKenna is definitely on my must-read list.
What happens when your teenage crush walks in expecting to do the same thing? You hit him with a baseball bat. Well - in Elle's defense - she wasn't expecting anyone to show up while she was trying to figure out what to do next.
Cam - the Ultimate Chef winner - knows what hit him figuratively and literally. What he doesn't know is that he deserves anything good in his life. Enter Elle - to show him that he is deserving of wanting something and being happy.
This feel-good love story reminds me that you don't always have to go far to find exactly what you need. Sometimes coming home and sitting still for a moment is all the clarity you need. Mallory McKenna is definitely on my must-read list.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
5 ⭐️ 2.5 🌶️
“The truth is that I don’t know if I’ll ever feel like I deserve the way you look at me, but I want to spend every day keeping that look on your face. To living up to the man you see in me.”
Elle Pierce, the down on her luck little sister who returns home to Rock Harbour to lick her wounds after life throws her a bad hand and Cam Devers, the best friend and chef who’s hiding from his troubles.. little does he know he’s about to find whole new troubles at home!!
The kitchen isn’t the only thing bringing the heat in this debut novel! 🔥 (Cliché I know!!) The tension and the chemistry between Elle and Cam is a tangible thing; you can feel it pouring from the pages! If you love angst, playful banter and undeniable chemistry then you’ve come to the right place.
I absolutely ate this book up!! I’m not a huge contemporary lover, but I have nothing bad to say about this; I was hooked right off the bat. (Ya see what I did there? 🤭) I couldn’t put this book down, and when I had to it was all I could think about!!
I had the absolute pleasure of being given the opportunity to ARC read this book and all I can say is thank you and Mallory you did fantastic!! Can’t wait to see what else is in store in the future. ⭐️
“The truth is that I don’t know if I’ll ever feel like I deserve the way you look at me, but I want to spend every day keeping that look on your face. To living up to the man you see in me.”
Elle Pierce, the down on her luck little sister who returns home to Rock Harbour to lick her wounds after life throws her a bad hand and Cam Devers, the best friend and chef who’s hiding from his troubles.. little does he know he’s about to find whole new troubles at home!!
The kitchen isn’t the only thing bringing the heat in this debut novel! 🔥 (Cliché I know!!) The tension and the chemistry between Elle and Cam is a tangible thing; you can feel it pouring from the pages! If you love angst, playful banter and undeniable chemistry then you’ve come to the right place.
I absolutely ate this book up!! I’m not a huge contemporary lover, but I have nothing bad to say about this; I was hooked right off the bat. (Ya see what I did there? 🤭) I couldn’t put this book down, and when I had to it was all I could think about!!
I had the absolute pleasure of being given the opportunity to ARC read this book and all I can say is thank you and Mallory you did fantastic!! Can’t wait to see what else is in store in the future. ⭐️
July 7, 2025
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an early copy of Best Laid Plans, and I’m so thankful I did! This book had so many of my favorite things — the slow-burn tension of falling for your brother’s best friend (and your best friend’s sister), playful banter, and just the right amount of family chaos woven in.
It’s not quite enemies to lovers, but the dynamic at the beginning definitely had that fun, snarky energy that pulled me in right away. I also really loved how the family aspect stayed central to the story — it added heart and made the characters feel so real.
There were a couple of spots that felt a little hard to follow, but overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and couldn’t stop turning the pages. I’m definitely hooked and already excited for the next book in the series!
It’s not quite enemies to lovers, but the dynamic at the beginning definitely had that fun, snarky energy that pulled me in right away. I also really loved how the family aspect stayed central to the story — it added heart and made the characters feel so real.
There were a couple of spots that felt a little hard to follow, but overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and couldn’t stop turning the pages. I’m definitely hooked and already excited for the next book in the series!
July 21, 2025
Such a fun debut from Mallory McKenna, I was so excited to get to dive into this one early with an ARC! A perfect summer read with small town feels mixed with a little extra spice to heat things up. I can’t wait to see what other relationships she explores in the three part Rock Harbor series 🦞
Main characters Elle and Cam find themselves back in their hometown after a round of unexpected experiences leaves them searching for what comes next in the story of their lives. As they navigate shared space and time they have to decide if their 20 year history is worthy of more than just a fling. Sometimes letting go is all you need to do to find exactly what you need 💜
Main characters Elle and Cam find themselves back in their hometown after a round of unexpected experiences leaves them searching for what comes next in the story of their lives. As they navigate shared space and time they have to decide if their 20 year history is worthy of more than just a fling. Sometimes letting go is all you need to do to find exactly what you need 💜
July 9, 2025
Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna is set in a charming New England town with a family-run lobster restaurant at the heart of the story. This book had everything I love in a summer read: coastal charm, family connections and a swoony brother’s best friend romance. McKenna’s writing style made you feel part of the story, the salty air practically drifted off the pages! And of course I found myself craving a lobster roll made by a hot chef that knows his way around a kitchen, if you know what I mean 😉 With just the right amount of family drama, flirtation and feel good moments, this book is the perfect escape.
In Best Laid Plans, Elle finds herself escaping the city life in Boston to return back to her hometown, where her family runs a lobster restaurant. Coincidentally, Cam finds himself back at Pierce Lobster Co to also hide from reality. Two characters both running from something might just end up on the same path… Cam struggles to accept his feelings because Elle’s family was pivotal to his success and a source of light throughout his childhood. What do you do when you fall for your best friend’s little sister?!
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters in this story, the heavier topics discussed and the whole family connection. Mr. and Mrs. Pierce were so supportive and lovely throughout the story. I would love to see Wyatt have his own story!!
Make sure to add Best Laid Plans to your summer reading list.
Thank you BookFunnel and Mallory McKenna for an ARC of Best Laid Plans!
In Best Laid Plans, Elle finds herself escaping the city life in Boston to return back to her hometown, where her family runs a lobster restaurant. Coincidentally, Cam finds himself back at Pierce Lobster Co to also hide from reality. Two characters both running from something might just end up on the same path… Cam struggles to accept his feelings because Elle’s family was pivotal to his success and a source of light throughout his childhood. What do you do when you fall for your best friend’s little sister?!
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters in this story, the heavier topics discussed and the whole family connection. Mr. and Mrs. Pierce were so supportive and lovely throughout the story. I would love to see Wyatt have his own story!!
Make sure to add Best Laid Plans to your summer reading list.
Thank you BookFunnel and Mallory McKenna for an ARC of Best Laid Plans!
July 6, 2025
Thank you so much to Mallory McKenna for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of Best Laid Plans.
Elle returns to her home of Rock Harbour to lick her wounds after losing her job and being kicked out of her apartment on the same day.
Cam comes home to Rock Harbour to hide from his recent rise to fame and for the fists who threw at his boss.
Except both Elle and Cam end up crashing at Elle's brothers apartment. And sparks soon start flying. Elle's brother who just so happens to be Cam's best friend.
I absolutely loved this book. The characters of Elle and Cam and how they simultaneously contrasted each other but also healed each other. How their romance went from 0 to 100 after hot stares and a steamy kitchen encounter. What really drew me in though was how well handled Cam's childhood trauma was. It was cleverly done how as Cam grew closer to Elle, he started to heal, eventually being able to accept himself and be proud of who he had become. It was honestly lovely reading that acceptance.
I cannot wait for the next book in the Rock Harbour series!
Elle returns to her home of Rock Harbour to lick her wounds after losing her job and being kicked out of her apartment on the same day.
Cam comes home to Rock Harbour to hide from his recent rise to fame and for the fists who threw at his boss.
Except both Elle and Cam end up crashing at Elle's brothers apartment. And sparks soon start flying. Elle's brother who just so happens to be Cam's best friend.
I absolutely loved this book. The characters of Elle and Cam and how they simultaneously contrasted each other but also healed each other. How their romance went from 0 to 100 after hot stares and a steamy kitchen encounter. What really drew me in though was how well handled Cam's childhood trauma was. It was cleverly done how as Cam grew closer to Elle, he started to heal, eventually being able to accept himself and be proud of who he had become. It was honestly lovely reading that acceptance.
I cannot wait for the next book in the Rock Harbour series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
Just devoured Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna and let’s just say… the chef isn’t the only thing bringing the heat 👨🍳🔥 If you love flirty banter, kitchen chemistry, and open-door romance, this one’s a whole meal.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ + 3 chilies 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved everything about this book! Cam and Elle’s story starts off in a hilarious way. I don’t want to spoil any thing so I’ll leave it at that. I was hooked from the beginning. I laughed quite often while reading this book which hasn’t happened in a while. This is a great story, well-written and yes, VERY hard to put down. So hard in fact that I read it in under 24 hours!
And now I need more of Cam and Elle’s story.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ + 3 chilies 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved everything about this book! Cam and Elle’s story starts off in a hilarious way. I don’t want to spoil any thing so I’ll leave it at that. I was hooked from the beginning. I laughed quite often while reading this book which hasn’t happened in a while. This is a great story, well-written and yes, VERY hard to put down. So hard in fact that I read it in under 24 hours!
And now I need more of Cam and Elle’s story.
July 23, 2025
This book is a mash up of “It Ends With Us” and “Gilmore Girls”. Nothing original. Nothing happens in the book. It’s a summery read with no plot. MMC has a traumatic, abusive backstory turned into the best chef in Boston. Sounds familiar? Small town with a side character that had a child early on and lives and manages an inn? Check. Family restaurant that is threatened by a new chain restaurant? Check.
The writing is mediocre with repetitive writing. The author used a variation of “he drove her crazy in a way that only a sibling could” so many times. As someone without siblings, no, I don’t know and it’s polarizing readers. Also, calling her brother “charming” is a kind of odd descriptor.
There’s minor fat shaming and talking about how different things were ten pounds ago.
The FMC is a shit friend basically ditching her best friend and her daughter who is only mentioned at convenient times and disappears from the epilogue.
There was so much potential with no plot.
The writing is mediocre with repetitive writing. The author used a variation of “he drove her crazy in a way that only a sibling could” so many times. As someone without siblings, no, I don’t know and it’s polarizing readers. Also, calling her brother “charming” is a kind of odd descriptor.
There’s minor fat shaming and talking about how different things were ten pounds ago.
The FMC is a shit friend basically ditching her best friend and her daughter who is only mentioned at convenient times and disappears from the epilogue.
There was so much potential with no plot.
July 20, 2025
I read this book as an ARC and I highly recommend it! The relationship between Elle and Cam was there since the beginning of the book and continued to get stronger. The story was very well written.
July 18, 2025
While reading this great little tale I was reminded of how much this is true to life. The characters come off as your neighbor, friend and co-workers. Elle was your head strong go get what you want kind of gal while Cam was your quiet determined broken man who stayed in the shadows as much as possible. I enjoyed watching these two have their lives turned upside down, which is true to nature, and rebuild them into something more meaningful together. The banter between them was funny while also letting me see where people actually do get each other wrong. I am grateful I was given the opportunity to read this debut story and look forward to more work from this author.
I was given an ARC of this lovely tale and am leaving my review voluntarily.
I was given an ARC of this lovely tale and am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
I am so sorry. I really, really wanted to like this book, but I was so turned off by it being written in third person, it made it difficult to read. I got to 30% and had to call it quits, which says a lot because I very rarely DNF a book. I couldn’t push through this time.
July 15, 2025
I was fortunate to receive an ARC copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is a truly heartwarming, small town romance story. Accidental roommates, secret romance and brother's best friend are the tropes in play here, and they all work to great effect. Cam still experiences the hangover from a rough upbringing, despite his talent as a chef in the city. Elle had big dreams, involving escaping from Rock Harbor, but things have gone wrong for them both, and they both unexpectedly arrive at her brother's apartment to stay at the same time. Once Elle puts the baseball bat down, sparks fly, but what do they really want? And is it really worth upsetting the Pierce family over?
Both characters are likeable - you root for them both throughout, and their chemistry is palpable. It's a really enjoyable opener to a trilogy that has a lot of promise, if this instalment is anything to go by!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
This is a truly heartwarming, small town romance story. Accidental roommates, secret romance and brother's best friend are the tropes in play here, and they all work to great effect. Cam still experiences the hangover from a rough upbringing, despite his talent as a chef in the city. Elle had big dreams, involving escaping from Rock Harbor, but things have gone wrong for them both, and they both unexpectedly arrive at her brother's apartment to stay at the same time. Once Elle puts the baseball bat down, sparks fly, but what do they really want? And is it really worth upsetting the Pierce family over?
Both characters are likeable - you root for them both throughout, and their chemistry is palpable. It's a really enjoyable opener to a trilogy that has a lot of promise, if this instalment is anything to go by!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
July 26, 2025
To many, this was a cute quick read however I had some reservations. I didn’t really feel like the characters had that great of a chemistry. There wasn’t really many moments that had me kicking my feet and getting super giddy. It felt like their every single thought was lusting after each other, even in the serious moments regarding her dad and family it seemed as all they could think about was undressing the other. Which if that is your cup of tea, then this is definitely the book for you. I get that they were enemies to lovers, but it just didn’t seem like it was there for me.
Truthfully, I only kept reading to not DNF, but ended up not finishing anyway. It took me two weeks to get through a book that should’ve only took me 2 days. I got 30% in and just couldn’t do it.
Truthfully, I only kept reading to not DNF, but ended up not finishing anyway. It took me two weeks to get through a book that should’ve only took me 2 days. I got 30% in and just couldn’t do it.
July 20, 2025
I thought this was a great debut novel. The first of three books set in Rock Harbour, this one features Elle and Cam. Elle is back home to Rock Harbor where she grew up, licking her wounds after she became jobless, homeless and single all in a short space of time. So she moves in with her brother Wyatt to contemplate her next moves.
Cam is a celebrity chef, winning a culinary reality TV show, but just as he’s at the top of his game, he punches his boss (which was well deserved) but flees back to Rock Harbour to catch his breath and decide what his next move will be. Knowing his best friend Wyatt will be out of town for a couple of weeks, he takes up his open invitation to stay at his place, only when he lets himself in, he’s whacked with a baseball bat by....Elle. His best friend's sister, who is now all grown up and sexy as hell.
The chemistry and banter between Elle and Cam is electric; they are clearly attracted to each other, but Cam doesn’t want to jeopardise his friendship with Wyatt, and Elle is just hanging out until she gets a new job back in Boston. But they didn’t plan on feelings entering the picture; it was just supposed to be a quick hook-up to get things out of their systems. Oh, those pesky feelings!
I loved Cam, he was so wounded and carrying a lot of trauma from his childhood, which is why Wyatt and his family meant so much to him and he was so scared of hurting them. Elle was very determined and knew what she wanted, once she pulled herself out of her depressive state, she set her sights on new goals and went all out to achieve them.
I can’t wait to return to Rock Harbour again after reading this book.
Cam is a celebrity chef, winning a culinary reality TV show, but just as he’s at the top of his game, he punches his boss (which was well deserved) but flees back to Rock Harbour to catch his breath and decide what his next move will be. Knowing his best friend Wyatt will be out of town for a couple of weeks, he takes up his open invitation to stay at his place, only when he lets himself in, he’s whacked with a baseball bat by....Elle. His best friend's sister, who is now all grown up and sexy as hell.
The chemistry and banter between Elle and Cam is electric; they are clearly attracted to each other, but Cam doesn’t want to jeopardise his friendship with Wyatt, and Elle is just hanging out until she gets a new job back in Boston. But they didn’t plan on feelings entering the picture; it was just supposed to be a quick hook-up to get things out of their systems. Oh, those pesky feelings!
I loved Cam, he was so wounded and carrying a lot of trauma from his childhood, which is why Wyatt and his family meant so much to him and he was so scared of hurting them. Elle was very determined and knew what she wanted, once she pulled herself out of her depressive state, she set her sights on new goals and went all out to achieve them.
I can’t wait to return to Rock Harbour again after reading this book.
July 16, 2025
This book had me hooked from page one! Best Laid Plans is everything I love in a small-town romance—heartfelt, funny, emotionally layered, and full of sizzling chemistry.
Elle and Cam’s story is the kind of slow-burn tension that makes you want to yell just kiss already! Watching Elle return home after losing everything and rebuild her confidence while living with her brothers best friend.Absolute gold. And Cam? A cinnamon roll with a side of broody hot chef vibes. I adored him.
Their forced proximity and brother’s-best-friend dynamic gave this story just the right amount of angst, and the emotional growth from both characters felt so authentic. I was rooting for them every step of the way.
The writing is warm, witty, and full of charm. Every scene between Elle and Cam crackled, and I found myself highlighting so many quotes.
If you’re a fan of small-town settings, roommates-to-lovers, and brother’s-best-friend tropes—with plenty of heart and a pinch of spice—this one’s a must-read. One of my favorite comfort reads this year. 💕
Elle and Cam’s story is the kind of slow-burn tension that makes you want to yell just kiss already! Watching Elle return home after losing everything and rebuild her confidence while living with her brothers best friend.Absolute gold. And Cam? A cinnamon roll with a side of broody hot chef vibes. I adored him.
Their forced proximity and brother’s-best-friend dynamic gave this story just the right amount of angst, and the emotional growth from both characters felt so authentic. I was rooting for them every step of the way.
The writing is warm, witty, and full of charm. Every scene between Elle and Cam crackled, and I found myself highlighting so many quotes.
If you’re a fan of small-town settings, roommates-to-lovers, and brother’s-best-friend tropes—with plenty of heart and a pinch of spice—this one’s a must-read. One of my favorite comfort reads this year. 💕
July 19, 2025
ARC Review – Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. 🎢
Elle is the definition of a beautiful disaster—and I loved her for it. Cam seriously underestimates himself, and my heart ached for him more than once.
I have such a soft spot for small town romances, and the Pierce family stole my heart. They’re warm, chaotic, and impossible not to love.
Big thanks to the author for the ARC. I really, really enjoyed this one!
⸻
Avis ARC – Best Laid Plans de Mallory McKenna
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
Ce livre m’a fait vivre une véritable montagne russe d’émotions. 🎢
Elle est un vrai « beautiful disaster », et c’est ce qui la rend si attachante. Cam, lui, se sous-estime énormément, et j’ai eu mal au cœur pour lui à plusieurs reprises.
J’ai un gros faible pour les romances de petits villages, et la famille Pierce m’a complètement conquise. Ils sont chaotiques, aimants et tout simplement irrésistibles.
Merci à l’autrice pour cette copie ARC. J’ai vraiment beaucoup aimé ma lecture !
June 23, 2025
ARC REVIEW… Best Laid Plans- Mallory McKenna ⬇️⬇️⬇️
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Elle is the type of girl who has everything planned out, what she she hasn’t planned for was to lose her job and her home within the same day, resulting in going back to Rock Harbor.
Cam on the other hand, wasn’t so much of a planner, never planning his next move, which was why he ended up at his best friend, of over twenty years, apartment. What he was not expecting was his best friends little sister to be staying also.
I was lucky enough to have been selected as an ARC reader for this book and let’s just say it did not disappoint and I devoured this book so quick. The sexual tension between the two main characters had me hooked from the start.
Mallory really draws you in to the small town and makes you feel as if you’re one of the characters. The book is sweet🥰, spicey 🌶️(but not over the top) and This has easily become one of the top reads of the year so far and I cannot wait for this book to be shared with so many of you on July 15th. I cannot wait for book 2, it can’t come quick enough
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Elle is the type of girl who has everything planned out, what she she hasn’t planned for was to lose her job and her home within the same day, resulting in going back to Rock Harbor.
Cam on the other hand, wasn’t so much of a planner, never planning his next move, which was why he ended up at his best friend, of over twenty years, apartment. What he was not expecting was his best friends little sister to be staying also.
I was lucky enough to have been selected as an ARC reader for this book and let’s just say it did not disappoint and I devoured this book so quick. The sexual tension between the two main characters had me hooked from the start.
Mallory really draws you in to the small town and makes you feel as if you’re one of the characters. The book is sweet🥰, spicey 🌶️(but not over the top) and This has easily become one of the top reads of the year so far and I cannot wait for this book to be shared with so many of you on July 15th. I cannot wait for book 2, it can’t come quick enough
June 29, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book💗
This was a really good Brothers Best Friend romance with a tiny bit of enemies to lovers, they were a bit annoyed with each other on the beginning and then got closer.
The background characters who featured were also so good and added to the whole story.
Overall this was a really nice romance, it had chemistry, spice everything you want.
My only criticism is I didn’t like 3rd person POV but that is just my preference, I think if each chapter was written as from the mind of the characters this would have made the book a 5 stars for me 🥰
I am really looking forward to the rest of the books on this series.
And thank you for allowing me to read this before release 💗
This was a really good Brothers Best Friend romance with a tiny bit of enemies to lovers, they were a bit annoyed with each other on the beginning and then got closer.
The background characters who featured were also so good and added to the whole story.
Overall this was a really nice romance, it had chemistry, spice everything you want.
My only criticism is I didn’t like 3rd person POV but that is just my preference, I think if each chapter was written as from the mind of the characters this would have made the book a 5 stars for me 🥰
I am really looking forward to the rest of the books on this series.
And thank you for allowing me to read this before release 💗
July 11, 2025
I just finished my ARC of Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna, and wow—I absolutely loved it!
Elle Pierce is down on her luck, both jobless and homeless, and decides to lay low at her brother’s apartment while she figures out her next move. Cam Devers, fresh off an unwanted win on a reality cooking show, is seeking refuge from fame. Neither expects the other to be there…but now they’re unexpected roommates with a sizzling attraction they’re trying very hard to ignore.
This story had everything I love—relatable characters, the perfect amount of spice, and a tension-filled forced proximity setup that totally delivered. The pacing was spot on and the ending left me smiling. I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the series!
Elle Pierce is down on her luck, both jobless and homeless, and decides to lay low at her brother’s apartment while she figures out her next move. Cam Devers, fresh off an unwanted win on a reality cooking show, is seeking refuge from fame. Neither expects the other to be there…but now they’re unexpected roommates with a sizzling attraction they’re trying very hard to ignore.
This story had everything I love—relatable characters, the perfect amount of spice, and a tension-filled forced proximity setup that totally delivered. The pacing was spot on and the ending left me smiling. I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the series!
July 13, 2025
Arc Reader - this was a cute small town and brother’s best friend romance. Elle has always been very organized and has always had her life planned out, but when she finds herself jobless and finds her boyfriend cheating on her she decides to return home. When she is home she finds out her father is sick and needs surgery which only adds to her feeling out of control: I liked her journey of discovering it’s ok to let lose sometimes and to be flexible when things don’t work out the way you thought they would. I wish we would have got more depth to Cam’s character. We now he has a tough childhood and felt more at home with the Pierce’s than his own family. I felt like a lot of his backstory was just glossed over and did not have the emotional connection I was hoping for.
July 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – ARC Review
I’m so grateful that I had the chance to this book as an ARC!! Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna is a swoony, slow-burn romance that delivers all the best parts of the “brother’s best friend” trope. Elle and Cam’s chemistry is undeniable, and their journey had me fully invested. Cam was a very loyal best friend and felt terrible for lying. You could feel it off the page. Elle is very related and is strong-willed. Their banter was wonderful and I loved how you could feel the moments that showed how much they truly care for each other. Elle’s brother, Wyatt, I feel like could have a little more depth, but I hope we get to see more soon!!! I loved Elle and Wyatt’s sibling relationship. This was a heartfelt, addictive read!! Can’t wait to see what comes next!!
I’m so grateful that I had the chance to this book as an ARC!! Best Laid Plans by Mallory McKenna is a swoony, slow-burn romance that delivers all the best parts of the “brother’s best friend” trope. Elle and Cam’s chemistry is undeniable, and their journey had me fully invested. Cam was a very loyal best friend and felt terrible for lying. You could feel it off the page. Elle is very related and is strong-willed. Their banter was wonderful and I loved how you could feel the moments that showed how much they truly care for each other. Elle’s brother, Wyatt, I feel like could have a little more depth, but I hope we get to see more soon!!! I loved Elle and Wyatt’s sibling relationship. This was a heartfelt, addictive read!! Can’t wait to see what comes next!!
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