What do you think?
Rate this book
Meeting Mr. Brown: The first ROMANCE novel that doubles as a self-help SUCCESS GUIDE
He’s a billionaire heir running from a legacy he never wanted.
She’s a married woman standing at the edge of the life she chose.
Together, they’re a mistake waiting to happen.
Bart Brown doesn’t believe in promises—only in escape. When his father’s death delivers him a secret New York townhouse and a past he doesn’t recognize, Bart boards a one-way flight to disappear. What he doesn’t expect is her—blue-eyed, sharp-tongued, irresistible—colliding with him over a stolen coffee and a shared last name.
Celeste Brown believes in vows, even when they feel like cages. Especially then. She’s built her life on commitment, reason, and loyalty—but one night with a stranger who sees straight through her fractures everything she’s convinced herself is solid.
Their chemistry is instant. Dangerous. Unfinished.
They don’t cross the line.
They draw one instead.
One year.
One bench in Central Park.
One impossible bet: promise versus happiness.
But secrets don’t stay buried. Desire doesn’t fade politely. And some men don’t disappear—they haunt.
When fate drags them back together, Bart and Celeste must decide what hurts more: breaking a promise…or keeping one that breaks you.
A sensual, emotionally charged romance about temptation, timing, and the kind of love that ruins you before it saves you.
This novel is pure fiction, but the wealth building tips played out in its storyline are very real and based on over 150 nonfiction books that will let you in on the most valuable secrets millionaires use to supercharge their success.
She’s a married woman standing at the edge of the life she chose.
Together, they’re a mistake waiting to happen.
Bart Brown doesn’t believe in promises—only in escape. When his father’s death delivers him a secret New York townhouse and a past he doesn’t recognize, Bart boards a one-way flight to disappear. What he doesn’t expect is her—blue-eyed, sharp-tongued, irresistible—colliding with him over a stolen coffee and a shared last name.
Celeste Brown believes in vows, even when they feel like cages. Especially then. She’s built her life on commitment, reason, and loyalty—but one night with a stranger who sees straight through her fractures everything she’s convinced herself is solid.
Their chemistry is instant. Dangerous. Unfinished.
They don’t cross the line.
They draw one instead.
One year.
One bench in Central Park.
One impossible bet: promise versus happiness.
But secrets don’t stay buried. Desire doesn’t fade politely. And some men don’t disappear—they haunt.
When fate drags them back together, Bart and Celeste must decide what hurts more: breaking a promise…or keeping one that breaks you.
A sensual, emotionally charged romance about temptation, timing, and the kind of love that ruins you before it saves you.
This novel is pure fiction, but the wealth building tips played out in its storyline are very real and based on over 150 nonfiction books that will let you in on the most valuable secrets millionaires use to supercharge their success.
- GenresRomance
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2025
2 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Julie Parks
1 book84 followersJulie Parks has worked in marketing, hospitality and journalism before switching to write full-time. Her short stories have been featured in Jerry Jazz Musician, daCunha, New Pop Lit, The Fear of Monkeys, The Same and Best New Writing anthology.
Her short story Cotton Candy on Alto Sax won the Jerry Jazz Musician short fiction contest and was nominated for the Pushcart Prize. And Off-springs was long-listed for the Stirling Publishing short story competition in January 2018.
Julie Parks is a pseudonym.
Her debut romance novel MEETING Mr. BROWN is now available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.
Her short story Cotton Candy on Alto Sax won the Jerry Jazz Musician short fiction contest and was nominated for the Pushcart Prize. And Off-springs was long-listed for the Stirling Publishing short story competition in January 2018.
Julie Parks is a pseudonym.
Her debut romance novel MEETING Mr. BROWN is now available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 9, 2025
This sure was an enjoyable read! The story was well written and easy to read. It is a very mature story, with realistic conversations and tension between the main characters.
Well-deserved points for Julie’s unique take. She’s trying to make us all smarter with her book, and in a fun way! I especially loved the summary at the back with all the advice listed out. Thanks Julie, I enjoyed it!
Well-deserved points for Julie’s unique take. She’s trying to make us all smarter with her book, and in a fun way! I especially loved the summary at the back with all the advice listed out. Thanks Julie, I enjoyed it!
September 15, 2025
•Sweet read, so much yearning•
Meeting Mr. Brown is book about the chance meeting of the two main characters, who happen to share a last name. They have instant chemistry, and the book follows their love story. However, there is more to this book than romance, and I would even go so far as to say the focus is more on the characters’ development than their romantic experiences together. As the characters learn more about each other and themselves, they grow and change the direction of their lives. I enjoyed the intelligent writing style of the author, who clearly did her research on the financial and self-help subject matter in the book. Be ready for almost palpable yearning, which kept me reading way too late into the night.
Thank you to the author for sharing an ARC of this book with me- it was a sweet, enjoyable read!
Meeting Mr. Brown is book about the chance meeting of the two main characters, who happen to share a last name. They have instant chemistry, and the book follows their love story. However, there is more to this book than romance, and I would even go so far as to say the focus is more on the characters’ development than their romantic experiences together. As the characters learn more about each other and themselves, they grow and change the direction of their lives. I enjoyed the intelligent writing style of the author, who clearly did her research on the financial and self-help subject matter in the book. Be ready for almost palpable yearning, which kept me reading way too late into the night.
Thank you to the author for sharing an ARC of this book with me- it was a sweet, enjoyable read!
October 15, 2025
Just finished reading an advanced copy of a book that was just released on October 10th called, Meeting Mr. Brown. This is about Celeste Brown, who meets a handsome stranger, named Bart Brown, on her flight home and they get mistaken as Mr. and Mrs. Brown. Bart doesn't believe in marriage and relationships that last longer than a night. Celeste is trying to save her failing marriage, not knowing what changed and why her husband doesn't want her anymore. As they're on this flight, Bart and Celeste instantly click, they're the perfect pair, and their chemistry is undeniable. They part ways that evening after their flight, only for Celeste to get to work on Monday and find that Bart is now working at her office for the next six months. They are mistaken as Mr and Mrs Brown even more now that they're working together, and as Bart gets to know Celeste more he starts to think to himself that he likes the idea of her as the Mrs Brown to his Mr Brown.
This was such an entertaining story! It had my attention right from the start and kept it all the way through! It was really fun as well as heartfelt. Both Celeste and Bart's growth throughout the story was really beautiful and really well done! I was rooting for them to find their happiness! 🤍📚
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for this ARC of Meeting Mr. Brown, in exchange for an honest review.
**And an extra special thank you to the author herself: @julieparksauthor for personally reaching out to me and asking me to read an ARC of her book, Meeting Mr. Brown. You personally reaching out really meant a lot to me, and I am so happy I got to read your book! ☺️
This was such an entertaining story! It had my attention right from the start and kept it all the way through! It was really fun as well as heartfelt. Both Celeste and Bart's growth throughout the story was really beautiful and really well done! I was rooting for them to find their happiness! 🤍📚
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for this ARC of Meeting Mr. Brown, in exchange for an honest review.
**And an extra special thank you to the author herself: @julieparksauthor for personally reaching out to me and asking me to read an ARC of her book, Meeting Mr. Brown. You personally reaching out really meant a lot to me, and I am so happy I got to read your book! ☺️
September 17, 2025
ARC READ
This was such a cute book filled with tension and a deep foundation on whats important in life. I kept finding myself looking up the money advice and even the different birds so I could picture everything clearly. It was enlightening, though I’ll admit I probably won’t be making stacks of money anytime soon because I still don’t fully understand it (no fault to the author).
The meet cute at the beginning was honestly one of the sweetest I’ve ever read and I’ve read a lot. Without giving too much away, I thoroughly enjoyed this romance. I loved the characters thought process, the details, and most importantly, the growth of both main characters. Their relationships and unique outlooks on life had me reflecting long after I set the book down.
This was such a cute book filled with tension and a deep foundation on whats important in life. I kept finding myself looking up the money advice and even the different birds so I could picture everything clearly. It was enlightening, though I’ll admit I probably won’t be making stacks of money anytime soon because I still don’t fully understand it (no fault to the author).
The meet cute at the beginning was honestly one of the sweetest I’ve ever read and I’ve read a lot. Without giving too much away, I thoroughly enjoyed this romance. I loved the characters thought process, the details, and most importantly, the growth of both main characters. Their relationships and unique outlooks on life had me reflecting long after I set the book down.
October 4, 2025
8/10 ⭐
This is a light-hearted contemporary romance set in New York City. 🌆
🗣️1st person, dual POV
💞 Meet cute
💘 Immediate attraction
📝 Short chapters (love that)
🥰 “Look at me.”
🔐 Family secrets
🟩 Green flag MMC
What this book is about:
Celeste Brown returns to her husband of five years after giving him a month of space to finish his hopefully break through book.
Bart Brown spontaneously takes a temporary job in New York to flee from his family responsibilities after his father died.
They end up sitting next to each other on the plane, play a game of Mr. and Mrs. Brown and the attraction is immediate.
To add another coincidence, they find themselves on Monday working in the same office for the next 6 months.
While Celeste tries to rekindle her relationship with her husband Wes, Bart tries to remember that she is NOT his Mrs. Brown. And both is not so easy.
At the beginning of this book I was a bit annoyed by how quickly they realised that both their last names were Brown. I think this was done a bit clumsily.
But after that a really cute story unfolds. I was spooning with Celeste. 🥰
I really liked both MCs, especially Celeste was my type of person. She is attracted to Brown, but would never cheat on her husband.
There were many coincidences, but if you're working at the same office with the same last name, all of them could actually happen, which was fun. 🤗
I would have liked to read a bit more interaction between Celeste and her husband Wes. They live together, but we don't really get to read anything about Wes. If it was a movie, I'd say they tried to save the money for an additional actor. 😅
I'm having a hard time rating the spice here. Maybe it's too much to be called closed-door, but in my opinion it's way too less detailed and vivid to be described as open-door spice. So I'd say it's somewhere in between, the door is slightly ajar. 🤣
I really enjoyed reading this book and it was nice to have a pure green flag MMC for once.
I would definitely recommend it! 😊
Have you read this book? Then I would like to meet up in a park and talk about it. BC 😉
The author provided me with an eARC for my honest review.
This is a light-hearted contemporary romance set in New York City. 🌆
🗣️1st person, dual POV
💞 Meet cute
💘 Immediate attraction
📝 Short chapters (love that)
🥰 “Look at me.”
🔐 Family secrets
🟩 Green flag MMC
What this book is about:
Celeste Brown returns to her husband of five years after giving him a month of space to finish his hopefully break through book.
Bart Brown spontaneously takes a temporary job in New York to flee from his family responsibilities after his father died.
They end up sitting next to each other on the plane, play a game of Mr. and Mrs. Brown and the attraction is immediate.
To add another coincidence, they find themselves on Monday working in the same office for the next 6 months.
While Celeste tries to rekindle her relationship with her husband Wes, Bart tries to remember that she is NOT his Mrs. Brown. And both is not so easy.
At the beginning of this book I was a bit annoyed by how quickly they realised that both their last names were Brown. I think this was done a bit clumsily.
But after that a really cute story unfolds. I was spooning with Celeste. 🥰
I really liked both MCs, especially Celeste was my type of person. She is attracted to Brown, but would never cheat on her husband.
There were many coincidences, but if you're working at the same office with the same last name, all of them could actually happen, which was fun. 🤗
I would have liked to read a bit more interaction between Celeste and her husband Wes. They live together, but we don't really get to read anything about Wes. If it was a movie, I'd say they tried to save the money for an additional actor. 😅
I'm having a hard time rating the spice here. Maybe it's too much to be called closed-door, but in my opinion it's way too less detailed and vivid to be described as open-door spice. So I'd say it's somewhere in between, the door is slightly ajar. 🤣
I really enjoyed reading this book and it was nice to have a pure green flag MMC for once.
I would definitely recommend it! 😊
Have you read this book? Then I would like to meet up in a park and talk about it. BC 😉
The author provided me with an eARC for my honest review.
November 11, 2025
Meeting Mr. Brown by Julie Parks isn’t your typical romance—it’s so much more than that. I absolutely loved Brown and Celeste’s love story (seriously, if two people were ever meant to be together, it’s them), but what really stood out to me was how this book dives deep into finding happiness and success in your own life.
“Given the choice between a promise and happiness, what would you choose?” That question is at the heart of Celeste’s journey, and it really made me stop and think. Parks does such an amazing job of taking you along as Celeste figures out what truly matters to her.
I also loved the “Guide to Success” at the end—it’s packed with advice that feels both practical and meaningful. Things like taking responsibility, focusing on gratitude and saying thank you, learning from mistakes, knowing when to walk away, eliminating toxic people, understanding that pain is natural but suffering is a choice, making time to think and dream about what you want to attract, making a list of your goals, and knowing the difference between ambition and greed. And those are just some of them—there are even more gems throughout that really hit home.
This book left me feeling inspired, reflective, and honestly just happy. It’s a beautiful mix of romance, life lessons, and personal growth.
A special thank you to Julie Parks for reaching out to me to provide me with an ARC of this book!
“Given the choice between a promise and happiness, what would you choose?” That question is at the heart of Celeste’s journey, and it really made me stop and think. Parks does such an amazing job of taking you along as Celeste figures out what truly matters to her.
I also loved the “Guide to Success” at the end—it’s packed with advice that feels both practical and meaningful. Things like taking responsibility, focusing on gratitude and saying thank you, learning from mistakes, knowing when to walk away, eliminating toxic people, understanding that pain is natural but suffering is a choice, making time to think and dream about what you want to attract, making a list of your goals, and knowing the difference between ambition and greed. And those are just some of them—there are even more gems throughout that really hit home.
This book left me feeling inspired, reflective, and honestly just happy. It’s a beautiful mix of romance, life lessons, and personal growth.
A special thank you to Julie Parks for reaching out to me to provide me with an ARC of this book!
August 26, 2025
Not quite the millionaire romance I was expecting—and in a pleasant turn of events, all the better for it. The author clearly put a lot of care into researching the habits and behaviors of the ultra-wealthy, weaving them into a story that balances equal parts romance and almost a self-help lens.
What begins as a serendipitous encounter (thanks to the shared last name of the main characters) unfolds into something that feels like fate stepping in. I especially appreciated how both characters were allowed space to grow—navigating grief, strained marriages, and the heavy weight of family legacy—while still finding the courage to change course.
A thoughtful, layered romance that offers more than just glitter and grand gestures.
What begins as a serendipitous encounter (thanks to the shared last name of the main characters) unfolds into something that feels like fate stepping in. I especially appreciated how both characters were allowed space to grow—navigating grief, strained marriages, and the heavy weight of family legacy—while still finding the courage to change course.
A thoughtful, layered romance that offers more than just glitter and grand gestures.
November 5, 2025
I received this book as an ARC reader months ago. I was asked to read it by Julie herself and goodness am I glad that I was able to read it. This book is truthfully amazing. It is not only a romance novel but also a book that can help guide you to make better life decisions. So many amazing quotes and words of wisdom. I could not put it down and ended up reading it in a day.
The FMC, Celeste, faces many struggles in her life. One of these struggles is to figure out how her and her husband have grown apart. Being strong and resilient she keeps pushing forwards and tries to navigate through her crazy life. Making life altering changes and to lead her to a future she did not see coming.
The MMC, Mr. Brown, is so dreamy. He’s a very successful individual. One that has really invested in his future endeavors. He makes brilliant decisions, not only with his employment, but also within his life. He knows from the moment he sees Celeste that she is the one. He does many things to get her off of his mind and out of harms way. Little did he know that she’s an unforgettable individual.
This was an amazing read. I plan to buy this book and annotate it because it is that amazing. There’s just so much life realizations that I read that could really help someone grow as a person. Undoubtedly this book is a romance, but it’s much more than that. If you can, I would pick it up and truthfully give it a try. We all deserve a Mr. Brown in our lives, so go out there and get it.
The FMC, Celeste, faces many struggles in her life. One of these struggles is to figure out how her and her husband have grown apart. Being strong and resilient she keeps pushing forwards and tries to navigate through her crazy life. Making life altering changes and to lead her to a future she did not see coming.
The MMC, Mr. Brown, is so dreamy. He’s a very successful individual. One that has really invested in his future endeavors. He makes brilliant decisions, not only with his employment, but also within his life. He knows from the moment he sees Celeste that she is the one. He does many things to get her off of his mind and out of harms way. Little did he know that she’s an unforgettable individual.
This was an amazing read. I plan to buy this book and annotate it because it is that amazing. There’s just so much life realizations that I read that could really help someone grow as a person. Undoubtedly this book is a romance, but it’s much more than that. If you can, I would pick it up and truthfully give it a try. We all deserve a Mr. Brown in our lives, so go out there and get it.
August 19, 2025
I love the description of this book! The idea was a brilliant choice, and the writing captured my attention. Throughout the story, I would pick up little gems of wisdom from Parks. Not only was I entertained, but I also felt like I walked away with things to think further about.
October 11, 2025
Ever feel like universe is pushing towards certain situations or certain people?
Celeste is flying home to her husband and life in NY when she picks up a stranger’s coffee instead of her own. You see Brown and Celeste share the same surname. And by a slew of coincidences they find themselves constantly thrust together.
The beautiful Celeste and the handsome Brown strike up a unique friendship that helps them both grow in ways neither of them even realised they desperately needed.
When I started this book I thought it was going to be very different than it turned out to be and I say this in the best possible way. I am not an insta-love fan, I like my relationships to grow and build over the duration of a story and initially that’s not how you expect this story to play out. Celeste and Brown have an undeniable instant connection, but unfortunately for Brown she’s someone else’s wife.
I don’t want to say too much more about the story as there are a lot of twists and turns as I plays out. But I wanted highlight some of my favourite things while reading this story;
- Julie writes this underlying mystery about who is Brown really and who was his father. I was so invested in that side of the story and it married so well to Celeste’s self rediscovery that the romance was more a complimentary factor than the whole focus. Which I as a reader endlessly appreciate.
- the characters are all intriguing and well built up. I mean I feel I could imagine sitting for a game of chess in the park with Wilson, sharing a scotch with Jack in the office or even sneaking away for beer and chocolates with Bea, Chris and Junior. Do I potentially have a crush on a 70 year old male character? Maybe? Don’t judge me!
- New York and Central Park themselves become characters in this story, breathing so much life throughout every page.
- nice addition of the self help advice, particularly because it just read as so natural for Brown to be imparting the advice to Celeste that it never felt silted or out of place. I’ve read a self help book now! Whoop!
Bring on the next one. I really hope we hear about Wilson’s story in more depth one day! ♥️
It’s a nice mild one chili read and a solid 5 starts from me!
Celeste is flying home to her husband and life in NY when she picks up a stranger’s coffee instead of her own. You see Brown and Celeste share the same surname. And by a slew of coincidences they find themselves constantly thrust together.
The beautiful Celeste and the handsome Brown strike up a unique friendship that helps them both grow in ways neither of them even realised they desperately needed.
When I started this book I thought it was going to be very different than it turned out to be and I say this in the best possible way. I am not an insta-love fan, I like my relationships to grow and build over the duration of a story and initially that’s not how you expect this story to play out. Celeste and Brown have an undeniable instant connection, but unfortunately for Brown she’s someone else’s wife.
I don’t want to say too much more about the story as there are a lot of twists and turns as I plays out. But I wanted highlight some of my favourite things while reading this story;
- Julie writes this underlying mystery about who is Brown really and who was his father. I was so invested in that side of the story and it married so well to Celeste’s self rediscovery that the romance was more a complimentary factor than the whole focus. Which I as a reader endlessly appreciate.
- the characters are all intriguing and well built up. I mean I feel I could imagine sitting for a game of chess in the park with Wilson, sharing a scotch with Jack in the office or even sneaking away for beer and chocolates with Bea, Chris and Junior. Do I potentially have a crush on a 70 year old male character? Maybe? Don’t judge me!
- New York and Central Park themselves become characters in this story, breathing so much life throughout every page.
- nice addition of the self help advice, particularly because it just read as so natural for Brown to be imparting the advice to Celeste that it never felt silted or out of place. I’ve read a self help book now! Whoop!
Bring on the next one. I really hope we hear about Wilson’s story in more depth one day! ♥️
It’s a nice mild one chili read and a solid 5 starts from me!
October 18, 2025
ARC READER
If you enjoy lust, finance, and self help, you should read this book.
This book did not live up to my expectations. I rated it three stars simply because I didn’t absolutely hate it, but didn’t really love it either.
I enjoyed some of the side characters, the chess players, and the setting.
This book fell flat for me though. The plot seemed flat, and the characters did not seem to have very much dimension to them. The writing was also kind of confusing, at times when the characters were speaking to each other it felt like I was eavesdropping on their conversation in the middle of a very busy restaurant that also has live music. I was only catching bits and pieces of what they were saying.
A lot of the book was just them lusting after each other, and talking about how “sexy” the other was. It felt like the author added “spicy” scenes to the book just to do it. I don’t think most of them truly affected the plot in any way. They were perfect for each other though! To the point where they said the exact same things, word for word, had the exact same thoughts, grabbed for the exact same things, always knew exactly what the other was thinking. I mean that literally. It felt as though they had the exact same personality and zero depth. There are other ways, in my opinion, to show that two characters belong together.
The “self help” portions seemed to be random cliches thrown in there.
Celeste came across as a middle aged woman who complains about how she wasted her life. She had no real depth to her in my opinion. The entire time she was going through her divorce she was supposedly unfazed. I think it would have been better to show what she was truly feeling on a deeper level, and even if she had been emotionally checked out of the relationship we could have acknowledged the complexity of those feelings better.
Brown had potential to be a complex, developed character but he wasn’t fully fleshed out in my opinion. His backstory could have been better explained, the complexity behind why he felt the way he did about marriage could have been better explained. Overall, I didn’t mind his character, I just think it could’ve been better executed.
If you enjoy lust, finance, and self help, you should read this book.
This book did not live up to my expectations. I rated it three stars simply because I didn’t absolutely hate it, but didn’t really love it either.
I enjoyed some of the side characters, the chess players, and the setting.
This book fell flat for me though. The plot seemed flat, and the characters did not seem to have very much dimension to them. The writing was also kind of confusing, at times when the characters were speaking to each other it felt like I was eavesdropping on their conversation in the middle of a very busy restaurant that also has live music. I was only catching bits and pieces of what they were saying.
A lot of the book was just them lusting after each other, and talking about how “sexy” the other was. It felt like the author added “spicy” scenes to the book just to do it. I don’t think most of them truly affected the plot in any way. They were perfect for each other though! To the point where they said the exact same things, word for word, had the exact same thoughts, grabbed for the exact same things, always knew exactly what the other was thinking. I mean that literally. It felt as though they had the exact same personality and zero depth. There are other ways, in my opinion, to show that two characters belong together.
The “self help” portions seemed to be random cliches thrown in there.
Celeste came across as a middle aged woman who complains about how she wasted her life. She had no real depth to her in my opinion. The entire time she was going through her divorce she was supposedly unfazed. I think it would have been better to show what she was truly feeling on a deeper level, and even if she had been emotionally checked out of the relationship we could have acknowledged the complexity of those feelings better.
Brown had potential to be a complex, developed character but he wasn’t fully fleshed out in my opinion. His backstory could have been better explained, the complexity behind why he felt the way he did about marriage could have been better explained. Overall, I didn’t mind his character, I just think it could’ve been better executed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2025
A story of two lost souls who unknowingly helped
each other in finding their way..
Celeste Brown and Bart Brown were living (or just enduring) their separate lives when a chance encounter at the airport made them cross their path ~ All because of a silly mixup of their coffee orders(eh..all because they shared a common Last Name)!
A married woman (Mrs. Celeste Brown) who realises her worth finally, all because she accidentally got a stranger's coffee order !
& then there is Mr. Bart Brown ( not Celeste's husband) who has got enough on his plate! Imagine, suddenly knowing about his late father's inheritance (which could be illegal) left in his name.
Little did they know, that this mixup will lead them to each other, sharing stories and finding how much they have in common! The wistful thought,"What if they could've been the Mr. & Mrs. Brown?"
The story delves deep into the stagnant
relationships, the ones one often continues for the sake of it, the fear of starting over & choosing own happiness over others.
It also throws light on the self-confrontation and self-realisation about things which we don't want to accept at times.
The author has beautifully weaved the story of Celeste & Bart along with some great financial wisdom which indeed is insightful.
Few other characters standout - For me, Wilson's character stood out .
A jovial old fellow who once loved deeply and there is wisdom in every word he said..
A wonderfully written story and the 'Success Guide Summary' at the end was a cherry on top!
A very inspiring and comforting read with some valuable life-altering lessons!
MUST READ!
each other in finding their way..
Celeste Brown and Bart Brown were living (or just enduring) their separate lives when a chance encounter at the airport made them cross their path ~ All because of a silly mixup of their coffee orders(eh..all because they shared a common Last Name)!
A married woman (Mrs. Celeste Brown) who realises her worth finally, all because she accidentally got a stranger's coffee order !
& then there is Mr. Bart Brown ( not Celeste's husband) who has got enough on his plate! Imagine, suddenly knowing about his late father's inheritance (which could be illegal) left in his name.
Little did they know, that this mixup will lead them to each other, sharing stories and finding how much they have in common! The wistful thought,"What if they could've been the Mr. & Mrs. Brown?"
The story delves deep into the stagnant
relationships, the ones one often continues for the sake of it, the fear of starting over & choosing own happiness over others.
It also throws light on the self-confrontation and self-realisation about things which we don't want to accept at times.
The author has beautifully weaved the story of Celeste & Bart along with some great financial wisdom which indeed is insightful.
Few other characters standout - For me, Wilson's character stood out .
A jovial old fellow who once loved deeply and there is wisdom in every word he said..
A wonderfully written story and the 'Success Guide Summary' at the end was a cherry on top!
A very inspiring and comforting read with some valuable life-altering lessons!
MUST READ!
September 1, 2025
"Given the choice between a promise and happiness, what would you choose?"
This story is a welcome deviation from the average billionaire romance novel, and I loved it. I abhor self-help books and would never read them for research on success, so this book was an excellent choice for me. Reading about a man who is completely against love and marriage falling hopelessly in love with a woman who is his exact opposite? I am all in!
"There's such nobility in giving someone a promise and keeping it."
The romance and self-help aspects are perfectly blended in this story. I love the Brown significance and the coincidences. The male protagonist is not arrogant; he is a decent and successful man who doesn't boast about his money or knowledge—I'm a big fan. He is financially and emotionally secure and helps his woman reach new heights, not by doing things for her but by simply guiding her. That's a man worth talking about! His admiration for her was clear from the way he spoke about her.
Celeste's growth in the story felt both necessary and deeply impactful. Her sham of a marriage is evident from the first chapter, and although I expected more drama, I'm satisfied with how it was executed.
It's not about the choice between a promise and happiness. It's about the happiness of giving this promise.
The book, "Meeting Mr. Brown," explores promises and happiness. While this is a matter of personal perspective, I enjoyed the dynamics and the conflicting opinions presented. Read this book to discover the answer to your own question: "Happiness?" or "Promise?"
Signing off,
Riya xoxo
This story is a welcome deviation from the average billionaire romance novel, and I loved it. I abhor self-help books and would never read them for research on success, so this book was an excellent choice for me. Reading about a man who is completely against love and marriage falling hopelessly in love with a woman who is his exact opposite? I am all in!
"There's such nobility in giving someone a promise and keeping it."
The romance and self-help aspects are perfectly blended in this story. I love the Brown significance and the coincidences. The male protagonist is not arrogant; he is a decent and successful man who doesn't boast about his money or knowledge—I'm a big fan. He is financially and emotionally secure and helps his woman reach new heights, not by doing things for her but by simply guiding her. That's a man worth talking about! His admiration for her was clear from the way he spoke about her.
Celeste's growth in the story felt both necessary and deeply impactful. Her sham of a marriage is evident from the first chapter, and although I expected more drama, I'm satisfied with how it was executed.
It's not about the choice between a promise and happiness. It's about the happiness of giving this promise.
The book, "Meeting Mr. Brown," explores promises and happiness. While this is a matter of personal perspective, I enjoyed the dynamics and the conflicting opinions presented. Read this book to discover the answer to your own question: "Happiness?" or "Promise?"
Signing off,
Riya xoxo
September 24, 2025
What a unique book!!
‘Meeting Mr. Brown’ is a unique blend of romance and personal growth, weaving a love story with surprising depth and a wealth mindset twist. Julie Parks introduces us to two emotionally guarded characters—both navigating personal crossroads—whose lives unexpectedly collide. What follows is a slow-burning, chemistry-filled connection set against a backdrop of ambition, vulnerability, and change.
What sets this novel apart is its fusion of romance with self-development.
Parks draws on real financial and success principles, subtly weaving them into the narrative. At times, these tips feel like mini detours, but overall they add a fresh dimension, especially for readers who enjoy a “learn something while you read” experience.
The writing is heartfelt, the emotional tension is well-executed, and the New York setting adds a polished, aspirational flair. The only reason this was not a five star for me was I felt some of the transitions were abrupt which interrupted the flow of the book, BUT I imagine some of this was to retain brevity for all the knowledge Parks set out to pack into her book (which she did successfully!) This is a thoughtful, feel-good read that balances charm with substance.
If you're looking for a romance that inspires as much as it entertains, ‘Meeting Mr. Brown’ ABSOLUTELY delivers.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
‘Meeting Mr. Brown’ is a unique blend of romance and personal growth, weaving a love story with surprising depth and a wealth mindset twist. Julie Parks introduces us to two emotionally guarded characters—both navigating personal crossroads—whose lives unexpectedly collide. What follows is a slow-burning, chemistry-filled connection set against a backdrop of ambition, vulnerability, and change.
What sets this novel apart is its fusion of romance with self-development.
Parks draws on real financial and success principles, subtly weaving them into the narrative. At times, these tips feel like mini detours, but overall they add a fresh dimension, especially for readers who enjoy a “learn something while you read” experience.
The writing is heartfelt, the emotional tension is well-executed, and the New York setting adds a polished, aspirational flair. The only reason this was not a five star for me was I felt some of the transitions were abrupt which interrupted the flow of the book, BUT I imagine some of this was to retain brevity for all the knowledge Parks set out to pack into her book (which she did successfully!) This is a thoughtful, feel-good read that balances charm with substance.
If you're looking for a romance that inspires as much as it entertains, ‘Meeting Mr. Brown’ ABSOLUTELY delivers.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this one. It has a lot of your typical romance book plots which are fab and amazingly done but along side that romance there is a lovely story of self discovery, empowerment and choosing happiness/ putting yourself first.
This book is a must read for anyone who has ever struggled to feel good enough, anyone who has tried to hold onto someone they shouldn't have, anyone who's tried to change themselves in anyway to try make something work or fit in with what society says we should do/feel, and anyone who's tried has ever put their own needs aside to focus on someone elses.
The romance side of this book is lovely, it is a story of an unexpected meeting of two people destined for each other and all the little coincidental times/places they bumped into one another, all the shared experiences and the same people they knew individually and thoughts/plans they had that coincided with each other and always led them back to each other.
It gives a real sense of if something is right and meant to be then it will find a way.
I love that even throughout the building romance/love story both characters chose their own path and try do things in their own way. I love that they push each other to be better for themselves and do what they love rather than change to fit together.
And I loved the little reminders to be your best self and grow at the end of the story
This book is a must read for anyone who has ever struggled to feel good enough, anyone who has tried to hold onto someone they shouldn't have, anyone who's tried to change themselves in anyway to try make something work or fit in with what society says we should do/feel, and anyone who's tried has ever put their own needs aside to focus on someone elses.
The romance side of this book is lovely, it is a story of an unexpected meeting of two people destined for each other and all the little coincidental times/places they bumped into one another, all the shared experiences and the same people they knew individually and thoughts/plans they had that coincided with each other and always led them back to each other.
It gives a real sense of if something is right and meant to be then it will find a way.
I love that even throughout the building romance/love story both characters chose their own path and try do things in their own way. I love that they push each other to be better for themselves and do what they love rather than change to fit together.
And I loved the little reminders to be your best self and grow at the end of the story
September 6, 2025
Romance with HEART and practical wisdom.
Julie Parks has crafted a narrative that seamlessly intertwines romance with personal development. The protagonists, Bart and Celeste, are not merely characters in a love story but representations of growth and self-discovery. Their journey is not just about finding love but also about understanding oneself and one's desires. This depth adds a layer of richness to the narrative, making it resonate on a personal level.
The setting of New York City serves as more than just a backdrop; it acts as a catalyst for change and self-reflection. The city's dynamic energy mirrors the internal transformations of the characters, enhancing the story's emotional impact. The author's ability to capture the essence of both the city and the characters' journeys is commendable.
The incorporation of wealth-building principles within the storyline is a unique aspect of this novel. It provides readers with practical insights into financial independence while keeping the narrative engaging. This blend of romance and real-world advice sets the book apart in its genre.
Meeting Mr. Brown is a delightful read that offers more than just a love story. It's a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and practical wisdom. Julie Parks has successfully created a narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening.
Julie Parks has crafted a narrative that seamlessly intertwines romance with personal development. The protagonists, Bart and Celeste, are not merely characters in a love story but representations of growth and self-discovery. Their journey is not just about finding love but also about understanding oneself and one's desires. This depth adds a layer of richness to the narrative, making it resonate on a personal level.
The setting of New York City serves as more than just a backdrop; it acts as a catalyst for change and self-reflection. The city's dynamic energy mirrors the internal transformations of the characters, enhancing the story's emotional impact. The author's ability to capture the essence of both the city and the characters' journeys is commendable.
The incorporation of wealth-building principles within the storyline is a unique aspect of this novel. It provides readers with practical insights into financial independence while keeping the narrative engaging. This blend of romance and real-world advice sets the book apart in its genre.
Meeting Mr. Brown is a delightful read that offers more than just a love story. It's a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and practical wisdom. Julie Parks has successfully created a narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening.
October 12, 2025
Meeting Mr. Brown by Julie Parks is such a unique and refreshing read! What starts as a simple mix-up at an airport coffee shop turns into a beautifully layered story about two lost souls, Celeste and Bart Brown, whose shared last name and unexpected connection change the course of their lives.
This isn’t your typical romance, it’s equal parts love story, self-discovery, and a crash course in success and mindset. Parks weaves real-life financial wisdom and personal growth principles seamlessly into the plot, giving readers a “learn while you fall in love” experience. I especially appreciated how both characters are given space to grow, confront their fears, and choose happiness over complacency.
The New York backdrop adds a polished charm, and the emotional tension feels raw and real. Supporting characters, like the wise and warm Wilson, add heart and humor along the way. While a few transitions felt a little abrupt, the story’s message more than makes up for it, balancing warmth, inspiration, and depth.
The “Success Guide Summary” at the end was the perfect touch, tying together the book’s themes of ambition and authenticity. If you’re looking for a romance that inspires as much as it entertains, Meeting Mr. Brown absolutely delivers. A heartfelt, thought-provoking, and ultimately feel-good read.
October 3, 2025
What an unexpected read! I wasn’t sure how the author would mix financial advice in with a romance novel, but she did it! The finance side wasn’t as heavy-hitting as I expected, but it flowed naturally on the pages where it was brought in. Then the romance storyline between “Mr. Brown” and Celeste was done beautifully. It was a bit of an insta-love story, they had an instant connection that they couldn’t explain….along with a super sweet “meet-cute”, and to die for chemistry and tension. These two truly brought out the best in one another too….I just loved them together.
My ONLY issue was that it teetered on the line of a cheating trope. Her douchey husband deserved that and more, but there was definitely emotional things (and a bit physical) going on before they officially ended things, which I didn’t particularly love. (Even though I absolutely couldn’t stand the dude!). Without spoiling anything, my jaw was on the FLOOR with the reveals of what he had done. Truly!
In the end, everyone got the ending they deserved, and the last few chapters…how it all came together…was such a sweet HEA-ending. There was also some really great life lessons in there and just overall it was a really positive and uplifting read. (The spicy parts were SPICIN’ too!!! Loved that!)
My ONLY issue was that it teetered on the line of a cheating trope. Her douchey husband deserved that and more, but there was definitely emotional things (and a bit physical) going on before they officially ended things, which I didn’t particularly love. (Even though I absolutely couldn’t stand the dude!). Without spoiling anything, my jaw was on the FLOOR with the reveals of what he had done. Truly!
In the end, everyone got the ending they deserved, and the last few chapters…how it all came together…was such a sweet HEA-ending. There was also some really great life lessons in there and just overall it was a really positive and uplifting read. (The spicy parts were SPICIN’ too!!! Loved that!)
October 10, 2025
Thank you to Julie Parks and NetGalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a wonderful, cute, romantic story with some life lessons and financial advice sprinkled throughout. I would recommend for those who want an easy, fluffy read.
The sole reason I didn’t give this five stars is because Parks uses variations of the phrase “I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding” five times in the story. You know, the phrase that’s pretty much a literature meme? It made it hard for me to take what was happening seriously lol.
I did predict some of the twist, but not all aspects of it, so I enjoyed that. There was also moments where Celeste is trying to guess what an acronym means and it had me smiling at my Kindle. I thought that was a nice touch and added humor to serious moments.
The ending was super cute, although the acronym was not at all what I thought it was, and I was disappointed that Celeste and Brown didn’t meet on the date I thought they would. I think it would’ve been really romantic and full circle but I also get why they didn’t.
I enjoyed the life lessons at the end and will try to remember all of them. Overall, if you’re looking for a positive romance story with some financial and life advice thrown in, this is the one for you!
This was a wonderful, cute, romantic story with some life lessons and financial advice sprinkled throughout. I would recommend for those who want an easy, fluffy read.
The sole reason I didn’t give this five stars is because Parks uses variations of the phrase “I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding” five times in the story. You know, the phrase that’s pretty much a literature meme? It made it hard for me to take what was happening seriously lol.
I did predict some of the twist, but not all aspects of it, so I enjoyed that. There was also moments where Celeste is trying to guess what an acronym means and it had me smiling at my Kindle. I thought that was a nice touch and added humor to serious moments.
The ending was super cute, although the acronym was not at all what I thought it was, and I was disappointed that Celeste and Brown didn’t meet on the date I thought they would. I think it would’ve been really romantic and full circle but I also get why they didn’t.
I enjoyed the life lessons at the end and will try to remember all of them. Overall, if you’re looking for a positive romance story with some financial and life advice thrown in, this is the one for you!
October 12, 2025
What a refreshing and surprising read! Meeting Mr. Brown completely changed the way I look at romance novels and even how I think about money and success. I went in expecting a love story and came out with real insights into millionaire habits and wealth-building strategies that actually make sense. The author managed to weave genuine financial wisdom into an emotional, witty, and very human story.
Bart and Celeste’s chemistry was off the charts their connection felt natural, deep, and beautifully complicated. The “Mr. and Mrs. Brown” mix-up made for so many entertaining, heartfelt moments. I especially loved how both characters grew, not just emotionally but in mindset showing that love and personal growth can go hand in hand.
The writing is smart, elegant, and full of energy. The setting from the quiet beauty of Lake Geneva to the hustle of New York perfectly mirrors the journey from comfort to self-discovery. And that ending? Absolutely satisfying!
I honestly didn’t expect a romance novel to motivate me to think differently about wealth and purpose. Brilliant concept, beautifully executed. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves romance with substance and a touch of inspiration.
Bart and Celeste’s chemistry was off the charts their connection felt natural, deep, and beautifully complicated. The “Mr. and Mrs. Brown” mix-up made for so many entertaining, heartfelt moments. I especially loved how both characters grew, not just emotionally but in mindset showing that love and personal growth can go hand in hand.
The writing is smart, elegant, and full of energy. The setting from the quiet beauty of Lake Geneva to the hustle of New York perfectly mirrors the journey from comfort to self-discovery. And that ending? Absolutely satisfying!
I honestly didn’t expect a romance novel to motivate me to think differently about wealth and purpose. Brilliant concept, beautifully executed. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves romance with substance and a touch of inspiration.
August 6, 2025
Meeting Mr. Brown is a loose - extremely loose - modern take on An Affair to Remember. It follows two characters, Bart Brown, who, after recently losing his father, accepts a temporary job in New York City, and Celeste Brown, who is returning to her husband of five years, trying to sell herself on the idea that a dead marriage is better than throwing in the towel. They meet on a plane as a result of a mix-up.
See, they have the same last name so the stewardess sits them next to each other, thinking they're husband and wife. But they're not. In fact, even though the chemistry between them is fire, and the dynamic between them is easy and relaxed, their life philosophies could not be more different. While Bart is all about happiness, meaning he thinks committed relationships are fruitless because they will never last, Celeste is the opposite. She believes the promises we make, particularly those in a marriage, are important and worth sticking it out no matter how unfulfilled you feel.
However, when they start sharing adjacent offices at a hedge fund, and every event they attend mistakenly refers to them as Mr. and Mrs. Brown, they start enjoying each other's company and slowly, ever so slowly, begin to reevaluate their stances on relationships. And what it means to be in love.
All in all, this was an enjoyable romance. There wasn't anything inherently wow-ing about it, and I do think the connection to An Affair to Remember was distant at best, but Bart and Celeste did have a cute connection. It was perhaps a little too instantaneous for my liking, especially seeing as how Celeste was technically married to someone else at the time, but it served its purpose. Sometimes connections are like that. Familiarity can click into place in a moment, with a single look or in a short conversation, only to grow more over time. That's essentially what happens with Bart and Celeste. I appreciated the realness of that. A good pick if you're looking for a lighthearted romance in NYC to perk you up!
Thank you to NetGalley and Julie Parks for the ARC in exchange for my review.
BOOK BLOG
See, they have the same last name so the stewardess sits them next to each other, thinking they're husband and wife. But they're not. In fact, even though the chemistry between them is fire, and the dynamic between them is easy and relaxed, their life philosophies could not be more different. While Bart is all about happiness, meaning he thinks committed relationships are fruitless because they will never last, Celeste is the opposite. She believes the promises we make, particularly those in a marriage, are important and worth sticking it out no matter how unfulfilled you feel.
However, when they start sharing adjacent offices at a hedge fund, and every event they attend mistakenly refers to them as Mr. and Mrs. Brown, they start enjoying each other's company and slowly, ever so slowly, begin to reevaluate their stances on relationships. And what it means to be in love.
All in all, this was an enjoyable romance. There wasn't anything inherently wow-ing about it, and I do think the connection to An Affair to Remember was distant at best, but Bart and Celeste did have a cute connection. It was perhaps a little too instantaneous for my liking, especially seeing as how Celeste was technically married to someone else at the time, but it served its purpose. Sometimes connections are like that. Familiarity can click into place in a moment, with a single look or in a short conversation, only to grow more over time. That's essentially what happens with Bart and Celeste. I appreciated the realness of that. A good pick if you're looking for a lighthearted romance in NYC to perk you up!
Thank you to NetGalley and Julie Parks for the ARC in exchange for my review.
BOOK BLOG
August 18, 2025
Meeting Mr. Brown is a unique blend of romance and self-help. It pairs a chance-meeting love story with wealth-building tips.
The story follows Brown, a hedge-fund professional seeking noise and distraction but definitely not commitment in New York, and Celeste Brown, returning to a stale marriage which she feels bound to because of the promise she made.
I really loved the concept of this book although I will say that the wealth building tips were fairly general and not a major part for me, coming into the story towards the end. The slow burn romance element however I thought was really well done with just the right amount of spice! I love a good love story and this definitely delivered! I thought the mysterious townhouse and the enigmatic Wilson were a great addition as I love a good mystery and I would have liked this to have been developed more in the story. Overall an enjoyable feel good romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and Julie Parks for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story follows Brown, a hedge-fund professional seeking noise and distraction but definitely not commitment in New York, and Celeste Brown, returning to a stale marriage which she feels bound to because of the promise she made.
I really loved the concept of this book although I will say that the wealth building tips were fairly general and not a major part for me, coming into the story towards the end. The slow burn romance element however I thought was really well done with just the right amount of spice! I love a good love story and this definitely delivered! I thought the mysterious townhouse and the enigmatic Wilson were a great addition as I love a good mystery and I would have liked this to have been developed more in the story. Overall an enjoyable feel good romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and Julie Parks for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 1, 2025
Bart & Celeste
After a chance encounter where there was a mix up with their last names being the same, Bart and Celeste shared a plane ride to new york where they were very enamoured with one another. Both with startling differences of opinion when it came to life and love.
Celeste, such in a dead end marriage, with no hope for a spark of happiness drowns in those feelings but feels once making that commitment it is a promise to that someone for the rest of your life.
Bart, the opposite, feels happiness comes in other ways and is at a point where no relationship is worth it. These two have many more encounters and find themselves in each other's life more and more with the undeniable pull between them.
The story followed the two of them as they discover that just because they have those thoughts and feelings does not mean the other is necessarily wrong but what if they could have the love and happiness that they both desired, regardless of the way they so strongly held onto their views previously.
There was elements of financial advise woven into the story as well.
After a chance encounter where there was a mix up with their last names being the same, Bart and Celeste shared a plane ride to new york where they were very enamoured with one another. Both with startling differences of opinion when it came to life and love.
Celeste, such in a dead end marriage, with no hope for a spark of happiness drowns in those feelings but feels once making that commitment it is a promise to that someone for the rest of your life.
Bart, the opposite, feels happiness comes in other ways and is at a point where no relationship is worth it. These two have many more encounters and find themselves in each other's life more and more with the undeniable pull between them.
The story followed the two of them as they discover that just because they have those thoughts and feelings does not mean the other is necessarily wrong but what if they could have the love and happiness that they both desired, regardless of the way they so strongly held onto their views previously.
There was elements of financial advise woven into the story as well.
August 19, 2025
Meeting Mr. Brown by Julie Parks has all the classic romance tropes - instant chemistry, serendipitous encounters and opposites attract but it’s also so much more...
Brown who is reeling from family secrets following his fathers passing believes in choosing happiness. Celeste, who is in a dead end marriage, believes in keeping her promises. Can they both be right?
Their chance meeting blossoms into a story of love, self-discovery, and second chances. I love that the story is as much about their individual paths and growth as it is their romance together.
Alongside the swoon-worthy moments, Parks weaves in empowering insights on success, wealth, and life, making this both a feel-good romance and an inspiration to building the future you want.
I will say some of the financial guidance/empowerment messages didn't flow/feel like natural dialogue. But it didn't much bother me.
Thanks to Julie Parks for gifting me with the ARC.
Meeting Mr Brown is available from 10 October.
Brown who is reeling from family secrets following his fathers passing believes in choosing happiness. Celeste, who is in a dead end marriage, believes in keeping her promises. Can they both be right?
Their chance meeting blossoms into a story of love, self-discovery, and second chances. I love that the story is as much about their individual paths and growth as it is their romance together.
Alongside the swoon-worthy moments, Parks weaves in empowering insights on success, wealth, and life, making this both a feel-good romance and an inspiration to building the future you want.
I will say some of the financial guidance/empowerment messages didn't flow/feel like natural dialogue. But it didn't much bother me.
Thanks to Julie Parks for gifting me with the ARC.
Meeting Mr Brown is available from 10 October.
September 18, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book, and was intrigued by the concept. A romance that doubles as a self help finance guide? Interesting, and not my typical read.
From the beginning I was impressed with Parks writing skills - whether I enjoyed the book or not, her talent with words was apparent. Thankfully, the storyline was as good as the writing.
Both main and side characters felt real - the depth put into Celeste and Brown had my heart wrenching for both. The pair’s paths begin to intertwine after a coffee mixup in an airport. Their immediate connection adds both a welcome break, and further disruption, to their already tumultuous personal lives. Gaining some finance tips along their self growth journeys, was a nice bonus. Parks was able to weave the “self help” portion into the story so well, I didn’t even realize I was suppose to be learning.
The pace of the book keeps you turning the pages, and wraps up nicely. Glad I took a chance and read something new. If you’re a romance reader - or not - you should give Meeting Mr. Brown a read.
From the beginning I was impressed with Parks writing skills - whether I enjoyed the book or not, her talent with words was apparent. Thankfully, the storyline was as good as the writing.
Both main and side characters felt real - the depth put into Celeste and Brown had my heart wrenching for both. The pair’s paths begin to intertwine after a coffee mixup in an airport. Their immediate connection adds both a welcome break, and further disruption, to their already tumultuous personal lives. Gaining some finance tips along their self growth journeys, was a nice bonus. Parks was able to weave the “self help” portion into the story so well, I didn’t even realize I was suppose to be learning.
The pace of the book keeps you turning the pages, and wraps up nicely. Glad I took a chance and read something new. If you’re a romance reader - or not - you should give Meeting Mr. Brown a read.
October 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️•5
Oh my goodness, I loved this book so much! I need my own Mr Brown please!
I was so intrigued by the author’s note that it’s also like a self-help guide and it completely is, I love the way it was weaved throughout the story and also clearly explained at the end.
It took me a few chapters to get into but once I did, I was hooked! I loved seeing how Mr and Mrs Brown kept meeting again and again by chance and had such a strong subconscious connection, that they both help and change each other in ways they didn’t even realise were possible. The parallels between Mr and Mrs Brown are expertly created and added another layer to their story for me.
I felt all the emotions within this book! Happiness, anger, heartbreak, excitement, surprise… oh, there were some lovely surprises.
4.5 stars purely because the first couple chapters were a bit slow for me, everything else was utterly perfect!
Oh my goodness, I loved this book so much! I need my own Mr Brown please!
I was so intrigued by the author’s note that it’s also like a self-help guide and it completely is, I love the way it was weaved throughout the story and also clearly explained at the end.
It took me a few chapters to get into but once I did, I was hooked! I loved seeing how Mr and Mrs Brown kept meeting again and again by chance and had such a strong subconscious connection, that they both help and change each other in ways they didn’t even realise were possible. The parallels between Mr and Mrs Brown are expertly created and added another layer to their story for me.
I felt all the emotions within this book! Happiness, anger, heartbreak, excitement, surprise… oh, there were some lovely surprises.
4.5 stars purely because the first couple chapters were a bit slow for me, everything else was utterly perfect!
October 5, 2025
Plot: Bart Brown makes a split decision to take a short term position in New York after the death of his very wealthy father. On the flight he meets Celeste Brown, who is returning home to her loveless marriage. Because of a mix-up with their last names, they end up sitting with each other. Bart is everything she wishes her husband to be. They end up working in the same office over the next six months. Even though there is an obvious attraction, they have differing opinions on what is more important--living up to a promise or living for happiness.
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this love story. It was fun to watch Celeste grow as a person as she realizes the promise she made to her husband wasn't valuable if he didn't believe in that same promise. And Bart learns to get over his fear of marriage and commitment as he decides Celeste is worth it. The story wasn't just about their romance--it was about how each character grows and develops. I also loved the advice thrown in on building wealth and finding your worth.
What to Expect:
--dual POV
--airplane meet cute
--friends to lovers
--billionaire MMC
--slow burn
--unhappy marriage
--family secrets
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this love story. It was fun to watch Celeste grow as a person as she realizes the promise she made to her husband wasn't valuable if he didn't believe in that same promise. And Bart learns to get over his fear of marriage and commitment as he decides Celeste is worth it. The story wasn't just about their romance--it was about how each character grows and develops. I also loved the advice thrown in on building wealth and finding your worth.
What to Expect:
--dual POV
--airplane meet cute
--friends to lovers
--billionaire MMC
--slow burn
--unhappy marriage
--family secrets
October 10, 2025
What a lovely debut romance! Celeste, at 29 is in a marriage to a Mr. Brown that is hanging on by a thread- a promise made. Another, different Mr. Brown is single, living by what makes him happy, grieving over the loss of his father and taking a break from his normal reality with family and work in Switzerland to work in New York for six months- or so he thinks, before he meets Celeste (Mrs. Brown).
I really enjoyed the story. I was able to read it in a day. It’s a quick, page-turner! The characters definitely experienced insta- lust/ love, there was some forced proximity due to work commitments, and a hero/ green flag male main character. Overall, a fun love story with finance and life advice mixed in.
One of my favorite quotes/ words of advice from the book…
“Think, decide and choose.
Think, or others will think for you.
Decide, or others will decide for you.
Choose, or others will choose for you.”
I really enjoyed the story. I was able to read it in a day. It’s a quick, page-turner! The characters definitely experienced insta- lust/ love, there was some forced proximity due to work commitments, and a hero/ green flag male main character. Overall, a fun love story with finance and life advice mixed in.
One of my favorite quotes/ words of advice from the book…
“Think, decide and choose.
Think, or others will think for you.
Decide, or others will decide for you.
Choose, or others will choose for you.”
September 26, 2025
✨💵✨
I just loved this book. I loved all the characters (except the jerk Wes), loved Celeste and Brown’s love story, and loved the self-help advice perfectly woven into the story.
I don’t typically annotate books, but I highlighted many phrases throughout this book that resonated with me.
I would love a second book about Wilson’s backstory. His character intrigued me, and I loved him just popping up to provide both of them life advice.
The book asks what would you choose- a promise or happiness? My answer: Always choose happiness. Life is too short to not actively pursue happiness… And always BC 😉
If you like mature slow burn romances with a side of self-help, I strongly recommend this one.
I received this book as a #gifted ARC. Thank you to the author and Netgalley for sending this book for review consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I just loved this book. I loved all the characters (except the jerk Wes), loved Celeste and Brown’s love story, and loved the self-help advice perfectly woven into the story.
I don’t typically annotate books, but I highlighted many phrases throughout this book that resonated with me.
I would love a second book about Wilson’s backstory. His character intrigued me, and I loved him just popping up to provide both of them life advice.
The book asks what would you choose- a promise or happiness? My answer: Always choose happiness. Life is too short to not actively pursue happiness… And always BC 😉
If you like mature slow burn romances with a side of self-help, I strongly recommend this one.
I received this book as a #gifted ARC. Thank you to the author and Netgalley for sending this book for review consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2025
This book felt both refreshing and thoughtful. The story had a nice balance between light banter and deeper emotions, and I really liked how the author mixed romance with themes of self discovery. Celeste came across strong but also vulnerable, while Mr. Brown carried the weight of family secrets but still believed in happiness. Their meeting turned into something meaningful without losing the playful energy. I also appreciated the way author added layers about money, success, and independence. The chemistry between the characters felt instant, with moments that made me smile and others that made me stop and think. Thank you so much to the author and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews