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Soulmate #2
Breadwinner
This isn’t a love story—it’s a chess match.
Sarah Gallagher has always played life by the rules. Responsible mother, high-powered attorney, the glue holding her unconventional family together. But when the pieces on her carefully balanced board begin to shift, she finds herself drawn into a high-stakes game with someone who plays by a very different set of rules. Sarah isn’t sure if she’s protecting her heart or simply learning to play a more dangerous game. What begins as a professional opportunity to redefine her career quickly unravels as Sarah learns to shift her perspective on the many shapes love can take.
Nell Stanhope has spent a lifetime mastering control. Control of her image, her billion-dollar empire, and her emotions. In business, she’s ruthless. In pleasure, she’s nothing short of precise. But when her path crosses with Sarah Gallagher, she finds herself confronted with unexpected challenges that force her to reevaluate the boundaries of her own rules. What starts as a carefully calculated offer quickly turns into something Nell never imagined. Because Sarah, who is just as witty, ambitious, and powerful as she is, isn’t just her equal. She’s her undoing. Leaving Nell questioning everything she thought was set in stone.
Sapphic power, control, and ambition collide in Breadwinner, a story about the many forms love can take, and the dangerous game of letting go to receive it.
Sarah Gallagher has always played life by the rules. Responsible mother, high-powered attorney, the glue holding her unconventional family together. But when the pieces on her carefully balanced board begin to shift, she finds herself drawn into a high-stakes game with someone who plays by a very different set of rules. Sarah isn’t sure if she’s protecting her heart or simply learning to play a more dangerous game. What begins as a professional opportunity to redefine her career quickly unravels as Sarah learns to shift her perspective on the many shapes love can take.
Nell Stanhope has spent a lifetime mastering control. Control of her image, her billion-dollar empire, and her emotions. In business, she’s ruthless. In pleasure, she’s nothing short of precise. But when her path crosses with Sarah Gallagher, she finds herself confronted with unexpected challenges that force her to reevaluate the boundaries of her own rules. What starts as a carefully calculated offer quickly turns into something Nell never imagined. Because Sarah, who is just as witty, ambitious, and powerful as she is, isn’t just her equal. She’s her undoing. Leaving Nell questioning everything she thought was set in stone.
Sapphic power, control, and ambition collide in Breadwinner, a story about the many forms love can take, and the dangerous game of letting go to receive it.
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2026
About the author
Cass Morgan
4 books240 followersCass Morgan is a contemporary sapphic romance author. Her stories embrace the quiet moments of connection, the messy in-betweens, and the kind of love that feels so magical it leaves you forever changed. She’s especially drawn to the emotional nuances that make us human—the doubts, the hopes, and the courage it takes to be truly seen.
When she’s not writing, you can usually find Cass creating in some way, curled up on the couch playing cozy video games or creating elaborate systems in brightly colored Post-it notes around the house. Cass lives in the Chicago area with her wife Alexa.
When she’s not writing, you can usually find Cass creating in some way, curled up on the couch playing cozy video games or creating elaborate systems in brightly colored Post-it notes around the house. Cass lives in the Chicago area with her wife Alexa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
February 3, 2026
I’m gonna need a minute, dammit. Okay. I think I'm ready..... Babes. Let’s talk Breadwinner by Cass Morgan because I am still not okay—in the best, sapphic, power-suit-wearing, emotionally-tender kind of way. This book is where everything clicks. For me, it’s the true launching point of the series. You can feel Morgan settling into her voice, and it’s giving exactly what I’ve been craving: mature, powerful lesbians who are smart, messy, emotionally intelligent, and navigating love and identity in ways that feel so real. Like The L Word, but with fewer self-induced catastrophes and way more therapy.
Let’s start with Sarah—if you weren’t sold on her in Balancing Act, just wait. She is soooo layered and achingly human in this one. A woman juggling so many roles, trying to keep everything together, and finally (finally!) letting herself want more. And when that “more” shows up in the form of Nell freaking Stanhope? Wheww. Game on. NELL FREAKING STANHOPE- Babes... You're not ready for this billionaire.
Nell is a billionaire CEO (yes, I know, but stay with me) with ice queen vibes, sharp instincts, and control issues so deep they could be a full-time job. But she’s also deeply vulnerable underneath it all, and watching Sarah slowly unravel her defenses?? Delicious. Their dynamic is this slow, careful burn where every look and conversation matters. And let’s just say—I haven’t rooted this hard for a billionaire in years. Nell’s identity journey is handled with so much care, and it brings a kind of rep to the sapphic romance space that we need more of. Quiet, authentic, and deeply personal. I want to dive more into this BUT I try really hard to avoid spoilers because I think that it's something that made the book really impactful (for me).
Babes - I just have to say, Morgan turned up the heat in this one. Like.... TURNT IT UP with Nell and Sarah. Never has a wrist touch left me so shook!!! I love that Morgan chose these characters to really dive into the steam factor with her writing. I LOVE seeing mature women (40's +) fully living and being sexual beings. No shame, no shade, just sensual women loving women for all they are. It's GLORIOUS!!!
But it’s not just the romance that makes this book my favorite of the series so far... Morgan is giving us full-on community here. The friendships?? A dream.
Wren and Lily? I adore them. Wren has a much bigger presence in this book, and my heart—babes, it aches for her. She’s so guarded and complicated and beautiful in her quiet ways. I want to wrap her in bubble wrap. I will be seated immediately when it’s her turn for a book, because this slow evolution she’s going through? I’m invested. I mean, she has to have a book, right?! Don't worry - we'll start a petition and send it to Cass Morgan if it's not already on her post-it wall.
OH and Nell and Nate? Iconic. I live for strong platonic bonds, and their best-friend energy had me howling at times. They're messy and loyal and the kind of friends who carry each other through life’s wins and losses with sarcasm and unwavering love. More of that in romance, please.
Now - the blended family dynamics?? Not all rainbows and sunshine, but also not toxic or dysfunctional —and that’s what makes them work. It’s raw, sometimes uncomfortable, but real. These characters are beautifully flawed, doing their best, and learning how to show up for each other. That kind of emotional nuance in romance? YES, PLEASE. More!! Let's see more of this in our literature (and irl).
And THEN. That ending snippet for the next book??? I am unwell. If you saw my IG Story, you already witnessed my descent into sentence-scrambling chaos. Full meltdown. I’m not even embarrassed. (maybe a tiny bit, but not enough to actually worry about it haha). Cass Morgan knew what she was doing, and she chose violence (but like, soft sapphic emotional violence, ya know?). DID I MENTION I'M UNWELL?!?!
Breadwinner is smart, sharp, steamy, and tender. It’s about power and choice, control and connection, and what it means to let someone see the real you. It’s a billionaire romance but make it queer, introspective, emotionally rich, and full of heart.
I love lesbians.
Billionaires still shouldn’t exist.
But if they do, they should all be Nell Stanhope.
F#ck the Money.
Let’s start with Sarah—if you weren’t sold on her in Balancing Act, just wait. She is soooo layered and achingly human in this one. A woman juggling so many roles, trying to keep everything together, and finally (finally!) letting herself want more. And when that “more” shows up in the form of Nell freaking Stanhope? Wheww. Game on. NELL FREAKING STANHOPE- Babes... You're not ready for this billionaire.
Nell is a billionaire CEO (yes, I know, but stay with me) with ice queen vibes, sharp instincts, and control issues so deep they could be a full-time job. But she’s also deeply vulnerable underneath it all, and watching Sarah slowly unravel her defenses?? Delicious. Their dynamic is this slow, careful burn where every look and conversation matters. And let’s just say—I haven’t rooted this hard for a billionaire in years. Nell’s identity journey is handled with so much care, and it brings a kind of rep to the sapphic romance space that we need more of. Quiet, authentic, and deeply personal. I want to dive more into this BUT I try really hard to avoid spoilers because I think that it's something that made the book really impactful (for me).
Babes - I just have to say, Morgan turned up the heat in this one. Like.... TURNT IT UP with Nell and Sarah. Never has a wrist touch left me so shook!!! I love that Morgan chose these characters to really dive into the steam factor with her writing. I LOVE seeing mature women (40's +) fully living and being sexual beings. No shame, no shade, just sensual women loving women for all they are. It's GLORIOUS!!!
But it’s not just the romance that makes this book my favorite of the series so far... Morgan is giving us full-on community here. The friendships?? A dream.
Wren and Lily? I adore them. Wren has a much bigger presence in this book, and my heart—babes, it aches for her. She’s so guarded and complicated and beautiful in her quiet ways. I want to wrap her in bubble wrap. I will be seated immediately when it’s her turn for a book, because this slow evolution she’s going through? I’m invested. I mean, she has to have a book, right?! Don't worry - we'll start a petition and send it to Cass Morgan if it's not already on her post-it wall.
OH and Nell and Nate? Iconic. I live for strong platonic bonds, and their best-friend energy had me howling at times. They're messy and loyal and the kind of friends who carry each other through life’s wins and losses with sarcasm and unwavering love. More of that in romance, please.
Now - the blended family dynamics?? Not all rainbows and sunshine, but also not toxic or dysfunctional —and that’s what makes them work. It’s raw, sometimes uncomfortable, but real. These characters are beautifully flawed, doing their best, and learning how to show up for each other. That kind of emotional nuance in romance? YES, PLEASE. More!! Let's see more of this in our literature (and irl).
And THEN. That ending snippet for the next book??? I am unwell. If you saw my IG Story, you already witnessed my descent into sentence-scrambling chaos. Full meltdown. I’m not even embarrassed. (maybe a tiny bit, but not enough to actually worry about it haha). Cass Morgan knew what she was doing, and she chose violence (but like, soft sapphic emotional violence, ya know?). DID I MENTION I'M UNWELL?!?!
Breadwinner is smart, sharp, steamy, and tender. It’s about power and choice, control and connection, and what it means to let someone see the real you. It’s a billionaire romance but make it queer, introspective, emotionally rich, and full of heart.
I love lesbians.
Billionaires still shouldn’t exist.
But if they do, they should all be Nell Stanhope.
F#ck the Money.
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
I felt really bad for Sarah in book one and I still felt bad for her in book 2. Her unrequited (but no so much?) love for Beth was so painful to read. Sarah deserves the world, her sense of sacrifice for her family despite the pain is something to admire. I am so glad Nell got in the picture. To be short, I fell in love with her with a capital L. She is basically an ice queen, a control freak, a complex and infinetly interesting character, and she was exactly what Sarah needs at the time. To reclaim her power through submission and to switch of the control mode Sarah has to be in her daily life. The relationship they are in is nothing I am used to read and I love how special the bond between Sarah and Nell developped. Power play is one of my favorite thing to read : watching the game become not a game anymore. The spice is a nice bonus. The Nell being aromantic kind of threw me off. I am used to read books where two characters fall in love and have their HEA, but it was one of a kind.At the end of Breadwinner, I understood this series was different. One I realized there were not standalones. Two I spent a whole night dreaming about what I read and processing : what if the soulmate serie is about one couple only in the serie? If Nell and Sarah aren't meant to last + Sarah still love Beth + sneakpeek from book 3 💔💔💔:
Are Beth and Sarah planned to be endgame?For now I am not rooting for them. What if Morgan is about to wreck me in a million pieces after I fell deeply in love with Nell and Jamie?
Anyway Morgan is someone telling her story in her own way, keeping the reader on its toes and guessing.
I am all in. I just hope I won’t get hurt too much
Are Beth and Sarah planned to be endgame?For now I am not rooting for them. What if Morgan is about to wreck me in a million pieces after I fell deeply in love with Nell and Jamie?
Anyway Morgan is someone telling her story in her own way, keeping the reader on its toes and guessing.
I am all in. I just hope I won’t get hurt too much
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Cass Morgan for the ARC. I almost screamed when I saw I got it. I absolutely loved Balancing Act, the first book in the Soulmates Series. I fell in love with Sarah. You could tell how much she really loved her ex wife, Beth. She deserved her own love story and to be able to get over Beth.
I loved the power dynamics between Nell and Sarah. At first, I was a little iffy, because I didn’t want Sarah to be taken advantage of and it sounded a little escort-y (not that there's anything wrong with that) and Sarah deserves the world. But Nell ended up being such a caring individual that I soon was okay with their “arrangement” and quite frankly found it very hot.
When Cass Morgan said this book was about love of all kinds, I kind of thought it would explore more of Beth and Sarah’s coparenting relationship, which is did, but not in the way I thought. Getting Sarah’s perspective on things in this book vs Balancing Act has me seeing Beth in a different light. That light is a little more negative than I would like, but such is life.
I loved seeing Jamie in Breadwinner and speaking of Jamie, holy cow, that first look at the next book...
I fell more in love with Sarah even more in this book. She is just overall a kind and giving person. She is always putting others first. Like I said before, I was hesitant with the dynamic between Nell and her, but once you really get to know Nell, I believe those “games” they played actually helped Sarah come into herself and her confidence more.
I loved Nate and adored his relationship with Nell and how protective he was of her. It sounds like he has his own story and interesting background and I wouldn’t mind reading more about him. Which is wild for me, because I don’t usually like to read about men/have men as the main characters (sorry not sorry). But for him, I could make an exception
Nell is such an interesting character. I don’t want to give away spoilers, but it was nice that the author included that representation because I don’t believe I’ve ever read a romance book with that specific type of rep. And no, I’m not talking about being a billionaire. There’s something magnetic about Nell and she is always up front and honest. Both Sarah and Nell are so emotionally mature and we love emotionally mature women here!
I am, however, a little scared that Sarah is going to get her heart broken. Don’t worry, it’s a happy ending in this book, but I am so worried that Sarah will eventually be heart broken. Again, not wanting to spoil anything, but if you read, you’ll know what I am referring to.
Overall, I love this little universe that Cass has created in the Soulmate Series. It’s real and raw. It’s why I’m not too worried about my change in opinion of Beth, because I do feel like that will change over the next book. Even if it doesn’t, it shows how complex we are as humans and how complex relationships of all kinds are. I laughted, I cried, I gasped throughout Breadwinner. I can’t wait for more.
I loved the power dynamics between Nell and Sarah. At first, I was a little iffy, because I didn’t want Sarah to be taken advantage of and it sounded a little escort-y (not that there's anything wrong with that) and Sarah deserves the world. But Nell ended up being such a caring individual that I soon was okay with their “arrangement” and quite frankly found it very hot.
When Cass Morgan said this book was about love of all kinds, I kind of thought it would explore more of Beth and Sarah’s coparenting relationship, which is did, but not in the way I thought. Getting Sarah’s perspective on things in this book vs Balancing Act has me seeing Beth in a different light. That light is a little more negative than I would like, but such is life.
I loved seeing Jamie in Breadwinner and speaking of Jamie, holy cow, that first look at the next book...
I fell more in love with Sarah even more in this book. She is just overall a kind and giving person. She is always putting others first. Like I said before, I was hesitant with the dynamic between Nell and her, but once you really get to know Nell, I believe those “games” they played actually helped Sarah come into herself and her confidence more.
I loved Nate and adored his relationship with Nell and how protective he was of her. It sounds like he has his own story and interesting background and I wouldn’t mind reading more about him. Which is wild for me, because I don’t usually like to read about men/have men as the main characters (sorry not sorry). But for him, I could make an exception
Nell is such an interesting character. I don’t want to give away spoilers, but it was nice that the author included that representation because I don’t believe I’ve ever read a romance book with that specific type of rep. And no, I’m not talking about being a billionaire. There’s something magnetic about Nell and she is always up front and honest. Both Sarah and Nell are so emotionally mature and we love emotionally mature women here!
I am, however, a little scared that Sarah is going to get her heart broken. Don’t worry, it’s a happy ending in this book, but I am so worried that Sarah will eventually be heart broken. Again, not wanting to spoil anything, but if you read, you’ll know what I am referring to.
Overall, I love this little universe that Cass has created in the Soulmate Series. It’s real and raw. It’s why I’m not too worried about my change in opinion of Beth, because I do feel like that will change over the next book. Even if it doesn’t, it shows how complex we are as humans and how complex relationships of all kinds are. I laughted, I cried, I gasped throughout Breadwinner. I can’t wait for more.
April 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
RTC
RTC
May 26, 2026
I really enjoyed this! Was such a nice take on romance and seeing it from a different perspective. I love that Nell and Sarah found a way to have a relationship that worked for them!
I loved book one but I think I loved this one even more! Definitely becoming a fan of Cass Morgan!
And Oh Sarah! 😭 she had me sobbing at one point.
The. Spice. In. This. Book!! Holy Hell 🫠🔥 It was incredible, intense, beautiful!!
Highly recommend book one and two!
Written in Third Person with 2x POV’s. Narrated by Quinn Riley. Book Two in the Soulmate series. Ice Queen, Found Family, Billionaire/Lawyer, Femme/Femme, Slow Burn, Aromantic Rep. 7x Spicy Scenes.
I loved book one but I think I loved this one even more! Definitely becoming a fan of Cass Morgan!
And Oh Sarah! 😭 she had me sobbing at one point.
The. Spice. In. This. Book!! Holy Hell 🫠🔥 It was incredible, intense, beautiful!!
Highly recommend book one and two!
Written in Third Person with 2x POV’s. Narrated by Quinn Riley. Book Two in the Soulmate series. Ice Queen, Found Family, Billionaire/Lawyer, Femme/Femme, Slow Burn, Aromantic Rep. 7x Spicy Scenes.
March 5, 2026
⭐️ 4.25 stars.
I liked this better than The Balancing Act.
I liked this better than The Balancing Act.
July 17, 2026
I mean, if the phrase, “I’m Ms. Right; Now…” was a t-shirt, Nell & Sarah would be wearing it.
[3.5]
This is not a story about the destination. It is about a journey that lives in the happily ever for right now trope. The story of Nell and Sarah forces you to think about love differently. One hopelessly nonromantic sapphic, and one hopeless “soulmates and all that romantic” vibe. How could these two feel full in each other’s arms? Oh, in a very interesting, 50 shades way.
There’s an agreement. With rules. Nell controls both. She isn’t a woman of grand “romantic” gestures (although you will be tested to think otherwise) or interested in the typical coupled type of relationship (this will be clear). You will be tested. She is tricky. Cass Morgan doesn’t make Nell a character that is easily understood. I guess, that is the whole point. She is always being misunderstood. She had spent decades feeling broken. Feeling undeserving. “You’re not broken…you’re just used to people punishing you for not fitting into the boxes they want to put you in” (pg. 233). This settles in. Yes, this makes sense. Ok. I’m there. I can accept this. And then, something so poetic comes from Nell that you wonder, is there a shift?
Sarah does this to her.
But Sarah has her own issues that need addressing. Namely her ex-Beth. One love. Tears and the ache of holding something that has moved on. An opportunity is presented, that allows her to take the step toward detaching herself. Nell. The arrangement. And Sarah reclaims herself. But is that enough? Beth tests this. Whether knowingly or not, it is unclear. The reader could find themselves confused. Who is it I’m routing for here? “If you still think about me like that, why did you choose Jamie? Why didn’t you choose me?” (pg. 266).
Nonetheless, when both women feel deeply and understand their value – without being asked to change. When they feel seen – truly seen, there is so much gloriousness in that.
There is a lot happening here. It has such an extreme shift from the first book that they almost feel completely independent of one another. The vibe, tone, and style take a shift. I found myself wondering where Morgan was taking me. There were directions that I thought, directions that I questioned, those that landed, and others that still feel unfinished (there are two more books to read).
Then you begin to hypothesis. Am I reading a Did the first book land the way it did for me, for an intentional reason? Similarly, I can’t ignore how this book lands either. I have no idea. Off to read book 3.
[3.5]
This is not a story about the destination. It is about a journey that lives in the happily ever for right now trope. The story of Nell and Sarah forces you to think about love differently. One hopelessly nonromantic sapphic, and one hopeless “soulmates and all that romantic” vibe. How could these two feel full in each other’s arms? Oh, in a very interesting, 50 shades way.
There’s an agreement. With rules. Nell controls both. She isn’t a woman of grand “romantic” gestures (although you will be tested to think otherwise) or interested in the typical coupled type of relationship (this will be clear). You will be tested. She is tricky. Cass Morgan doesn’t make Nell a character that is easily understood. I guess, that is the whole point. She is always being misunderstood. She had spent decades feeling broken. Feeling undeserving. “You’re not broken…you’re just used to people punishing you for not fitting into the boxes they want to put you in” (pg. 233). This settles in. Yes, this makes sense. Ok. I’m there. I can accept this. And then, something so poetic comes from Nell that you wonder, is there a shift?
Sarah does this to her.
But Sarah has her own issues that need addressing. Namely her ex-Beth. One love. Tears and the ache of holding something that has moved on. An opportunity is presented, that allows her to take the step toward detaching herself. Nell. The arrangement. And Sarah reclaims herself. But is that enough? Beth tests this. Whether knowingly or not, it is unclear. The reader could find themselves confused. Who is it I’m routing for here? “If you still think about me like that, why did you choose Jamie? Why didn’t you choose me?” (pg. 266).
Nonetheless, when both women feel deeply and understand their value – without being asked to change. When they feel seen – truly seen, there is so much gloriousness in that.
There is a lot happening here. It has such an extreme shift from the first book that they almost feel completely independent of one another. The vibe, tone, and style take a shift. I found myself wondering where Morgan was taking me. There were directions that I thought, directions that I questioned, those that landed, and others that still feel unfinished (there are two more books to read).
Then you begin to hypothesis. Am I reading a Did the first book land the way it did for me, for an intentional reason? Similarly, I can’t ignore how this book lands either. I have no idea. Off to read book 3.
December 22, 2025
Breadwinner is the second book in the Soulmate Series. It can be read as standalone, but please read Balancing Act first.
Ummm. Yeah. What can I say? Wow. I could not put this down.
Sarah and Nell’s story. Complex, intriguing, layered, and oh so much… This story is beautifully crafted, well written. Raw. Real. Perfectly Imperfect. It sucks you in and doesn’t let go. This story shows love in a different form to what we are used to seeing.
Sarah, you gorgeous woman. She peaked my interest in the first book. Seeing Sarah as a giving person and the way she’s cares, how can I word? People come first for her. Her confidence grew even more throughout this book. I definitely fell in love with her in this book.
Nell. Hmmm. I had no idea what to think of her. But that is okay. Her swagger, the confidence, and the mystery. Woman, you are intriguing. By the end of this book, I was like yes woman you are squishy underneath it all for the right person. Her found family with Nate, I love it.
The power dynamics between Sarah and Nell with the “arrangement” was not what I was expecting. Hot in its own way. But damn. I love they don’t push each other to be something they are not, just truly their most authentic self, nothing more or less.
Beth, I’m not your biggest fan after this book. Sarah needed to get over you. Needed that little rant. Sorry, not sorry. Jamie you are adorable as always. Can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you for the ARC Cass Morgan.
Ummm. Yeah. What can I say? Wow. I could not put this down.
Sarah and Nell’s story. Complex, intriguing, layered, and oh so much… This story is beautifully crafted, well written. Raw. Real. Perfectly Imperfect. It sucks you in and doesn’t let go. This story shows love in a different form to what we are used to seeing.
Sarah, you gorgeous woman. She peaked my interest in the first book. Seeing Sarah as a giving person and the way she’s cares, how can I word? People come first for her. Her confidence grew even more throughout this book. I definitely fell in love with her in this book.
Nell. Hmmm. I had no idea what to think of her. But that is okay. Her swagger, the confidence, and the mystery. Woman, you are intriguing. By the end of this book, I was like yes woman you are squishy underneath it all for the right person. Her found family with Nate, I love it.
The power dynamics between Sarah and Nell with the “arrangement” was not what I was expecting. Hot in its own way. But damn. I love they don’t push each other to be something they are not, just truly their most authentic self, nothing more or less.
Beth, I’m not your biggest fan after this book. Sarah needed to get over you. Needed that little rant. Sorry, not sorry. Jamie you are adorable as always. Can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you for the ARC Cass Morgan.
February 15, 2026
idk but beth is honestly so questionable
February 5, 2026
Love with a big L!
This book is a masterful second book in this series. This book, it’s beautiful in a non traditional way. The spice is spicy, the banter is witty and fun, but at its heart it’s beautiful for what it doesn’t give the reader. Don’t get me wrong, it gave us some beautiful moments between the MCs, but it also gave additional context to the first book.
I can fully admit I didn’t love the lack of closure for Sarah in Book 1. This book gave a deeper insight into Sarah apart from the strict mother figure and emotionally distant lover for Beth.
This book gets at the heart of who Sarah is, and it does it in a way that also allows her to enjoy herself and push herself outside of who she thinks she has to be.
I LOVE Nell, and she’s the perfect counterpart to Sarah. Their foreplay, which I feel like is every interaction they have, is witty and challenging for them both, while also granting each other control.
Loved!!!!! I will definitely be returning to it!
This book is a masterful second book in this series. This book, it’s beautiful in a non traditional way. The spice is spicy, the banter is witty and fun, but at its heart it’s beautiful for what it doesn’t give the reader. Don’t get me wrong, it gave us some beautiful moments between the MCs, but it also gave additional context to the first book.
I can fully admit I didn’t love the lack of closure for Sarah in Book 1. This book gave a deeper insight into Sarah apart from the strict mother figure and emotionally distant lover for Beth.
This book gets at the heart of who Sarah is, and it does it in a way that also allows her to enjoy herself and push herself outside of who she thinks she has to be.
I LOVE Nell, and she’s the perfect counterpart to Sarah. Their foreplay, which I feel like is every interaction they have, is witty and challenging for them both, while also granting each other control.
Loved!!!!! I will definitely be returning to it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good ice queen romance. Two ice queens? I knew I was in for a treat. And what a treat it is.
Breadwinner is like a lava cake. Hot, rich, decadent dessert with bittersweet chocolate and just a touch of saltiness to enhance the taste.
We had the pleasure (mostly) to discover Sarah in Balancing Act, and it was a delight to really get to know her. The clarity that comes with knowing her perspective on her relationship with Beth and navigating their new family dynamics. Some discussions were needed, and it honestly brought tears to my eyes.
Nell, Nell, Nell… What to say? What a pleasant surprise. Confident, goddamn powerful, did I mention hot, and also caring? Her only flaw: a questionable taste in F1 team (no one can be perfect).
The dynamics between Nell and Sarah got me grinning like the Cheshire Cat. An unusual relationship, at least to me, but so beautifully written.
Cass Morgan has a way to write characters and their stories that brings me joy and excitement. Her characters are undeniably themself, all flaws, doubts, and hurts included.
The Soulmate Series is just a constant lesson on love. A lesson on love that can take many forms; love that is not perfect; love that can be something different than what we expected; love that changes shape; love that comes with compromises without compromising yourself.
Breadwinner managed to surprise me in the best way possible.
Honestly, if you don’t read Breadwinner, you’re missing out. Read the whole series while you’re at it. And if you do, please take the time to read the author’s note if you usually don’t. It’s really worth it.
Breadwinner is like a lava cake. Hot, rich, decadent dessert with bittersweet chocolate and just a touch of saltiness to enhance the taste.
We had the pleasure (mostly) to discover Sarah in Balancing Act, and it was a delight to really get to know her. The clarity that comes with knowing her perspective on her relationship with Beth and navigating their new family dynamics. Some discussions were needed, and it honestly brought tears to my eyes.
Nell, Nell, Nell… What to say? What a pleasant surprise. Confident, goddamn powerful, did I mention hot, and also caring? Her only flaw: a questionable taste in F1 team (no one can be perfect).
The dynamics between Nell and Sarah got me grinning like the Cheshire Cat. An unusual relationship, at least to me, but so beautifully written.
Cass Morgan has a way to write characters and their stories that brings me joy and excitement. Her characters are undeniably themself, all flaws, doubts, and hurts included.
The Soulmate Series is just a constant lesson on love. A lesson on love that can take many forms; love that is not perfect; love that can be something different than what we expected; love that changes shape; love that comes with compromises without compromising yourself.
Breadwinner managed to surprise me in the best way possible.
Honestly, if you don’t read Breadwinner, you’re missing out. Read the whole series while you’re at it. And if you do, please take the time to read the author’s note if you usually don’t. It’s really worth it.
February 16, 2026
My fault for having expectations
February 7, 2026
I liked the book but it didn’t meet my expectations. I though it would be a genuine battle of wits and for control where they would both take and give up control to each other. I think that dynamic would be more subversive and hot. Especially, since they were both high powered and successful women but Nell who had more wealth/status basically controlled the dynamic from the start. So it didn’t feel that unique to me.
“They continued talking, shifting effortlessly between subjects—business, law, investments, power. Sarah matched her in every way Nell had anticipated, and in a few ways she hadn’t.” I also didn’t like how these moments where they were talking are so quickly glossed over and condensed. I would preferred they either weren’t included or they were expanded on.
“You made Angela Dupree like you, and that’s not an easy thing to do.” They literally had a two sentence “conversation”. I don’t know how hard that test would have been.
“Not out of disinterest—God, no, far from it—but because everything between them had been so intensely connected since that weekend in the Hamptons back in August. “And since then, it had only deepened each time she saw her.” It feels like the emotional beats of their relationship were built off page?? Because nothing really emotional happened between them to suggest this conclusion. So far, the relationship on page has been pretty surface level to me.
“both donning the now-iconic “Invest in Women’s Sports” shirts for Empwr Ventures. ” That was a cool nod to the ‘everyone watches women’s sports’ shirts.
“I don’t do relationships, and somewhere along the way, I know that line got blurred for you.” Projecting much??
“I’ve been telling you for months that I’m unfortunately, hopelessly in love with Beth.” What a unique romance book, where 75% into the story, one MC is in love with her ex and the other MC seems to unbothered by this information.
“I’ve never really been a part of a family until I became a part of yours, and . . . thank you for letting me be a part of it.” Jamie was a really sweet person.
“They continued talking, shifting effortlessly between subjects—business, law, investments, power. Sarah matched her in every way Nell had anticipated, and in a few ways she hadn’t.” I also didn’t like how these moments where they were talking are so quickly glossed over and condensed. I would preferred they either weren’t included or they were expanded on.
“You made Angela Dupree like you, and that’s not an easy thing to do.” They literally had a two sentence “conversation”. I don’t know how hard that test would have been.
“Not out of disinterest—God, no, far from it—but because everything between them had been so intensely connected since that weekend in the Hamptons back in August. “And since then, it had only deepened each time she saw her.” It feels like the emotional beats of their relationship were built off page?? Because nothing really emotional happened between them to suggest this conclusion. So far, the relationship on page has been pretty surface level to me.
“both donning the now-iconic “Invest in Women’s Sports” shirts for Empwr Ventures. ” That was a cool nod to the ‘everyone watches women’s sports’ shirts.
“I don’t do relationships, and somewhere along the way, I know that line got blurred for you.” Projecting much??
“I’ve been telling you for months that I’m unfortunately, hopelessly in love with Beth.” What a unique romance book, where 75% into the story, one MC is in love with her ex and the other MC seems to unbothered by this information.
“I’ve never really been a part of a family until I became a part of yours, and . . . thank you for letting me be a part of it.” Jamie was a really sweet person.
February 6, 2026
Whew. I’m in a bit of a book hangover not only from the book but that little next book snippet at the end, yeah hungover.
I enjoyed Sarah in book 1 and was thrilled to read her story. I loved Nell and how they figured out what worked. They’re both a bit of an ice queen but when they melt it’s glorious.
Nell and Nate had an amazing relationship and I loved when Nate was around! Perfect supporting character.
I absolutely adore Lily and Wren. Since the books keep coming I’m hoping perhaps they will get a story or two?
Highly recommend!
I enjoyed Sarah in book 1 and was thrilled to read her story. I loved Nell and how they figured out what worked. They’re both a bit of an ice queen but when they melt it’s glorious.
Nell and Nate had an amazing relationship and I loved when Nate was around! Perfect supporting character.
I absolutely adore Lily and Wren. Since the books keep coming I’m hoping perhaps they will get a story or two?
Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶🌶🌶 (very sexy 🔥)
📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I made so many notes while reading this book because it has so much going on ⚡️ The blurb states, “this isn’t a love story”, and the narrative goes to unexpected places and explores love that isn’t often portrayed in traditional romance — but love is very much present.
Breadwinner is the second novel in the Soulmate Series, though it can be read as a standalone. Sarah stood out to me even in book one, where we met her as Beth’s ex-wife and co-parent. Here, we see her fully as a lawyer and as Lily’s mum, with one clear goal: get over her ex-wife and finally move on.
Enter Nell — direct, bold, exciting, emotionally intelligent, wildly competent, and completely unapologetic in her desire for Sarah. What more could you want? The question becomes whether Nell is simply a distraction from heartbreak, or something far more unexpected.
Described by the author as a story about two Type A power lesbians, this really leans into that dynamic. Their relationship feels like a chess match, with power, control, and desire playing out both in and beyond the bedroom, as they shape something that works for them both.
I’ll admit the beginning of their arrangement surprised me — I didn’t expect Sarah to agree to Nell’s terms, with its rules, expectations, and billionaire energy. But, like Sarah, I found myself drawn into Nell’s wealthy, high-intensity world. I loved Sarah’s characterisation in particular: a woman so used to being in control, discovering the relief and pleasure of sometimes letting that control go.
The spice in this novel is 🔥! Their sharp wordplay as foreplay is delicious, and the Vegas scenes followed by the snowy cabin chapters were 🫠 — I definitely made sure no one could see my face while reading.
Alongside the heat, there’s messy drama and complicated queer family dynamics that feel real rather than neat.
And what begins as something transactional slowly deepens into something meaningful. Following both perspectives as Sarah and Nell build a relationship that genuinely works for them was very fun to read - and I'm already excited for the next book! 📚
📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I made so many notes while reading this book because it has so much going on ⚡️ The blurb states, “this isn’t a love story”, and the narrative goes to unexpected places and explores love that isn’t often portrayed in traditional romance — but love is very much present.
Breadwinner is the second novel in the Soulmate Series, though it can be read as a standalone. Sarah stood out to me even in book one, where we met her as Beth’s ex-wife and co-parent. Here, we see her fully as a lawyer and as Lily’s mum, with one clear goal: get over her ex-wife and finally move on.
Enter Nell — direct, bold, exciting, emotionally intelligent, wildly competent, and completely unapologetic in her desire for Sarah. What more could you want? The question becomes whether Nell is simply a distraction from heartbreak, or something far more unexpected.
Described by the author as a story about two Type A power lesbians, this really leans into that dynamic. Their relationship feels like a chess match, with power, control, and desire playing out both in and beyond the bedroom, as they shape something that works for them both.
I’ll admit the beginning of their arrangement surprised me — I didn’t expect Sarah to agree to Nell’s terms, with its rules, expectations, and billionaire energy. But, like Sarah, I found myself drawn into Nell’s wealthy, high-intensity world. I loved Sarah’s characterisation in particular: a woman so used to being in control, discovering the relief and pleasure of sometimes letting that control go.
The spice in this novel is 🔥! Their sharp wordplay as foreplay is delicious, and the Vegas scenes followed by the snowy cabin chapters were 🫠 — I definitely made sure no one could see my face while reading.
Alongside the heat, there’s messy drama and complicated queer family dynamics that feel real rather than neat.
And what begins as something transactional slowly deepens into something meaningful. Following both perspectives as Sarah and Nell build a relationship that genuinely works for them was very fun to read - and I'm already excited for the next book! 📚
March 19, 2026
Duel 3rd Person POV. 5🌟 3🌶️. 324 pages
6 Spicy Scenes
I first picked this book up because I read Balancing Act and it’s a forgone conclusion that you must read the series, also you’re telling me its a duel ice queen storyline? Then I’m there and it ended up being more than I anticipated!
Breadwinner follows Sarah Gallagher a high stakes lawyer and the ex wife of Beth from Balancing Act who she is still hopelessly in love with. Nell Stanhope is a billionaire philanthropist and has set her sights on her next acquisition, Sarah. It’s a story of love in many forms, healing and moving on from the past and the delights of chosen family!
I absolutely loved this book! I fell in love with Sarah in Balancing Act, often shouting at my kindle that she deserved so much better and this book gave her exactly what she was owed. I’ve seen her being described as an ice queen and I have to disagree, Sarah is one of the most loving, strong and driven characters I’ve ever read, but she does not fit the ice queen description. The chemistry between Sarah and Nell was amazing to read and the fact this book highlights love in its many forms was needed. I adored the fact that Sarah helped Nell realise that she wasn’t broken and accepted her for who she was. I feel like I need more of Sarah and I cannot wait for book 3 in the soulmate series.
Do yourself a favour and give both Balancing Act and Breadwinner a read, you won’t be disappointed but I will be if you don’t read them!
Things to LOVE:
📚Contemporary Romance
📖2nd in Series
🎲Power Games
🏳️🌈Type A Lesbians
👩💼40+ FMCs
🔥High Heat
🙌Praise
6 Spicy Scenes
I first picked this book up because I read Balancing Act and it’s a forgone conclusion that you must read the series, also you’re telling me its a duel ice queen storyline? Then I’m there and it ended up being more than I anticipated!
Breadwinner follows Sarah Gallagher a high stakes lawyer and the ex wife of Beth from Balancing Act who she is still hopelessly in love with. Nell Stanhope is a billionaire philanthropist and has set her sights on her next acquisition, Sarah. It’s a story of love in many forms, healing and moving on from the past and the delights of chosen family!
I absolutely loved this book! I fell in love with Sarah in Balancing Act, often shouting at my kindle that she deserved so much better and this book gave her exactly what she was owed. I’ve seen her being described as an ice queen and I have to disagree, Sarah is one of the most loving, strong and driven characters I’ve ever read, but she does not fit the ice queen description. The chemistry between Sarah and Nell was amazing to read and the fact this book highlights love in its many forms was needed. I adored the fact that Sarah helped Nell realise that she wasn’t broken and accepted her for who she was. I feel like I need more of Sarah and I cannot wait for book 3 in the soulmate series.
Do yourself a favour and give both Balancing Act and Breadwinner a read, you won’t be disappointed but I will be if you don’t read them!
Things to LOVE:
📚Contemporary Romance
📖2nd in Series
🎲Power Games
🏳️🌈Type A Lesbians
👩💼40+ FMCs
🔥High Heat
🙌Praise
December 28, 2025
Breadwinner x @cassmorganauthor
Soulmate Series Book 2
Out: 2/6/26
Spice Level: 🔥🔥🔥
What’s better than 1 ice queen??? 2 ICE QUEENS! This book was everything I never knew I needed, with representation that felt so nice to see in this context! Being categorized as “love in many forms” was the perfect description. It was raw, and gritty — but with so much care and tenderness under the surface. I gasped, I teared up, I swooned, and I even got a little pissed (I’m looking at you Beth 👊🏼😠 I still love you though). Be ready for some upped spice levels, that will have you fanning yourself — because Nell and Sarah’s chemistry is OFF THE CHARTS!
I knew from book 1 that I liked Sarah, but this outshined all of my expectations! Sarah and Nell’s “arrangement” was so intriguing; their open communication, their shared level of intelligence, and their type A personalities were the perfect dynamic for me! I loved how they never tried to change each other, and created their own “rules” for their relationship. I think it’s really beautiful to see that rep in a sapphic novel, because not everyone’s relationships have to follow some made up guidelines to force yourselves into some neat little box… and Breadwinner was the perfect example of this!
Thank you to the author for trusting me as an early reader and for bringing this story to life! This series has become one of my favorites to date!
Soulmate Series Book 2
Out: 2/6/26
Spice Level: 🔥🔥🔥
What’s better than 1 ice queen??? 2 ICE QUEENS! This book was everything I never knew I needed, with representation that felt so nice to see in this context! Being categorized as “love in many forms” was the perfect description. It was raw, and gritty — but with so much care and tenderness under the surface. I gasped, I teared up, I swooned, and I even got a little pissed (I’m looking at you Beth 👊🏼😠 I still love you though). Be ready for some upped spice levels, that will have you fanning yourself — because Nell and Sarah’s chemistry is OFF THE CHARTS!
I knew from book 1 that I liked Sarah, but this outshined all of my expectations! Sarah and Nell’s “arrangement” was so intriguing; their open communication, their shared level of intelligence, and their type A personalities were the perfect dynamic for me! I loved how they never tried to change each other, and created their own “rules” for their relationship. I think it’s really beautiful to see that rep in a sapphic novel, because not everyone’s relationships have to follow some made up guidelines to force yourselves into some neat little box… and Breadwinner was the perfect example of this!
Thank you to the author for trusting me as an early reader and for bringing this story to life! This series has become one of my favorites to date!
May 9, 2026
i loved balancing act and was excited for what the rest of the series held. i liked the spice level, as well as the characterization of two strong and independent women making a relationship work on their terms. loved the aromantic representation. loved seeing sarah let go. had some good laughs throughout. love how found/chosen family is explored in this book, just as it had been in balancing act. i wish there was more about wren bc her big plot line was resolved shortly after being introduced. there were a few plot points i wish had been drawn out more.
February 27, 2026
I have a really bad feeling that this soulmate thing is about Sarah and Beth and I hope that I’m wrong.
Nell is very likeable person, how she can command the space around her .. I was ready to get on my knees. But with Sarah? It just doesn’t click. I understand that love can come in many forms, what I don’t understand are these two “together”.
Nell is very likeable person, how she can command the space around her .. I was ready to get on my knees. But with Sarah? It just doesn’t click. I understand that love can come in many forms, what I don’t understand are these two “together”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2026
Another great holiday read! Really enjoyed the new themes this book explored and the 🌶️ level. Got a bit lost in the expression of one of the character’s aromantic identity but just something else to learn about I guess! Great to have read something by an author I found out about via Instagram!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2026
I clicked 'listen' on Breadwinner as soon as I read what Sterling Sapphic Reads's Review had to say: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I agree with every word.
I never wanted this to end!
I agree with every word.
I never wanted this to end!
April 6, 2026
Definitely was giving 50 shades for some parts. On others was just giving a whole queer lifecycle experience in multitude.
“Why do people go through all the trouble of having kids if they don’t plan on loving them unconditionally?”
“Why do people go through all the trouble of having kids if they don’t plan on loving them unconditionally?”
April 12, 2026
I have to admit, I was not feeling this book at first. The dynamic between Nell and Sarah felt very aggressive to me. I honestly think it just is not my personal cup of tea, nothing against the writing itself. The last third of the book was an easy read for me. I definitely preferred it much more to earlier chapters. Breadwinner made me really appreciate Sarah more than the first book. Very interesting how different POVs can completely change your opinion of characters *cough cough Beth*. 3/5
December 27, 2025
I will admit that I initially wasn’t a fan when I started this. I did not like Nell and I’m still not for sure how I feel about her. By chapter 6, I actually considered not finishing this book. The audacity of this woman to dictate to Sarah what she could and could not do and then the assumption that she knew what Sarah was goning to do absolutely made my blood boil. I understand the need to give up control every once in a while but the way that Nell was just assuming, gave me anxiety to the point where my heart was racing and I could not fall asleep. I’m still not sure how I feel about her even after finishing the book I don’t truly understand being aromantic but to look at somebody and basically tell them, hey if I don’t continue to like the way that this is going, then we’re done and I don’t really care. I just can’t get behind that however I had to look past that and pretend like that doesn’t exist because that’s basically what had to be done in order for me to finish reading this book.
I love Sarah! My heart breaks for her feels for her. I understand her on occasion I feel like I am her the heartbreak the still being in love with your ex-wife part is what really just broke my heart. And I’m gonna say this and I know that this is kind of one of those deals that not a lot of people are going to agree with me on because I like Jamie I do and I like Beth and I liked them together and book one and I really liked Beth in book one and I struggled a little bit with her character in book 2, but I still like Beth. After reading Sarah’s position on why their marriage fell apart and reading them both together I really think Beth and Sarah should work this out. I don’t think Sarah should be with Nell. And even though I love Jamie, I don’t think Jamie and Beth should be together. And that cliffhanger in the extra chapters is stressing me out because even though I don’t want them to be together, I don’t think Jamie should die either so I’m kind of looking forward to seeing which characters are covered in book 3 and I’m really hoping it’s Sarah and Beth finding their way back to each other because I’m totally a sucker for that.
I do know that this will be an unpopular opinion!
I love Sarah! My heart breaks for her feels for her. I understand her on occasion I feel like I am her the heartbreak the still being in love with your ex-wife part is what really just broke my heart. And I’m gonna say this and I know that this is kind of one of those deals that not a lot of people are going to agree with me on because I like Jamie I do and I like Beth and I liked them together and book one and I really liked Beth in book one and I struggled a little bit with her character in book 2, but I still like Beth. After reading Sarah’s position on why their marriage fell apart and reading them both together I really think Beth and Sarah should work this out. I don’t think Sarah should be with Nell. And even though I love Jamie, I don’t think Jamie and Beth should be together. And that cliffhanger in the extra chapters is stressing me out because even though I don’t want them to be together, I don’t think Jamie should die either so I’m kind of looking forward to seeing which characters are covered in book 3 and I’m really hoping it’s Sarah and Beth finding their way back to each other because I’m totally a sucker for that.
I do know that this will be an unpopular opinion!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advance Reader Copy from Author
Breadwinner by Cass Morgan is a gripping, unsettling, and surprisingly human look at survival, power, and the quiet ways people resist a system built to exploit them. Morgan creates a world that feels uncomfortably close to our own, and that’s exactly what makes this book so effective. The writing is tight and pacey, pulling you through the story with a steady sense of tension.
What stood out most to me was how grounded the characters felt. Even in the bleakest moments, there’s a thread of warmth and resilience woven through their relationships. Morgan avoids melodrama, instead offering a thoughtful exploration of what people will do—for themselves and for each other—when their choices are stripped away.
The story kept me hooked throughout. It’s the kind of book that lingers afterwards, prompting questions about labour, autonomy, and the systems we overlook in our own society.
Breadwinner by Cass Morgan is a gripping, unsettling, and surprisingly human look at survival, power, and the quiet ways people resist a system built to exploit them. Morgan creates a world that feels uncomfortably close to our own, and that’s exactly what makes this book so effective. The writing is tight and pacey, pulling you through the story with a steady sense of tension.
What stood out most to me was how grounded the characters felt. Even in the bleakest moments, there’s a thread of warmth and resilience woven through their relationships. Morgan avoids melodrama, instead offering a thoughtful exploration of what people will do—for themselves and for each other—when their choices are stripped away.
The story kept me hooked throughout. It’s the kind of book that lingers afterwards, prompting questions about labour, autonomy, and the systems we overlook in our own society.
March 3, 2026
I have such mixed feelings on this book. Spoilers ahead.
I loved Sarah and Nell so much. They had great chemistry, were both complex and flawed, but both managed to grow and keep showing up for each other. Kicking my feet twirling my hair material.
What I did not love, is the lower case l. While it's totally reasonable for them to settle on let's just see where this goes knowing that it likely won't be forever, can we just be so for real and say that is not what I'm after in a romance book. Technically it's a HFN but with a sense of impending doom.
I. DO. NOT. WANT. SARAH X BETH
I loved Sarah and Nell so much. They had great chemistry, were both complex and flawed, but both managed to grow and keep showing up for each other. Kicking my feet twirling my hair material.
What I did not love, is the lower case l. While it's totally reasonable for them to settle on let's just see where this goes knowing that it likely won't be forever, can we just be so for real and say that is not what I'm after in a romance book. Technically it's a HFN but with a sense of impending doom.
I. DO. NOT. WANT. SARAH X BETH
May 9, 2026
At the end of January I listened to Quinn Riley’s masterful narration of Balancing Act, and I knew then that I needed to read the sequel right away. I’’m usually a reader who spaces out longer reads over multiple days. That was not the case with this book - I went feral and stayed up until 1 am to finish this book.
I started reading this book with the expectation that it is a non-traditional romance, and I think that helped me appreciate the book more. In this book, In this book Cass Morgan expertly crafts a relationship between Sarah and Nell that is not based on romantic love, yet the two characters clearly have a special relationship.
At the start of this book Sarah is a high-flying lawyer, the partner at a big law firm, who is still very much in love with her ex-wife Beth. As the story evolves, the layers of her character are explored, and she became one of my favorite characters in this series. Sarah is a devoted mom to Lily, has a strong sense of what is right and wrong in the world, and is willing to do anything for those she loves. In particular I adored how she was seen as the safe person when Wren was in desperate need of help with her family situation..
Nell is the ruler of a billion dollar empire, a passionate believer in women, and very much used to being in control. When she has her first encounters with Sarah, they are very transactional in nature. Nell gets a companion for events, while Sarah gains connections in circles that she would otherwise never enter into. Yet, as the story progresses their connection deepens.
Sarah and Nell’s relationship is not romantic in nature, because Sarah helps Nell come to the realization that she is aromantic. I have never read a story before with an aromantic MC, so I appreciated seeing this representation in the story. This book truly showed me the different forms that a relationship can come in.
Overall, I rated this book a 5 stars because it does an incredible job of telling a very non-traditional love story. Sarah and Nell build a truly amazing relationship, founded on open communication, and love for one another. This book will stick with me for a while, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series. For anyone new to the series, I would recommend that you read Balancing Act first, in order to gain appreciation for Sarah.
I started reading this book with the expectation that it is a non-traditional romance, and I think that helped me appreciate the book more. In this book, In this book Cass Morgan expertly crafts a relationship between Sarah and Nell that is not based on romantic love, yet the two characters clearly have a special relationship.
At the start of this book Sarah is a high-flying lawyer, the partner at a big law firm, who is still very much in love with her ex-wife Beth. As the story evolves, the layers of her character are explored, and she became one of my favorite characters in this series. Sarah is a devoted mom to Lily, has a strong sense of what is right and wrong in the world, and is willing to do anything for those she loves. In particular I adored how she was seen as the safe person when Wren was in desperate need of help with her family situation..
Nell is the ruler of a billion dollar empire, a passionate believer in women, and very much used to being in control. When she has her first encounters with Sarah, they are very transactional in nature. Nell gets a companion for events, while Sarah gains connections in circles that she would otherwise never enter into. Yet, as the story progresses their connection deepens.
Sarah and Nell’s relationship is not romantic in nature, because Sarah helps Nell come to the realization that she is aromantic. I have never read a story before with an aromantic MC, so I appreciated seeing this representation in the story. This book truly showed me the different forms that a relationship can come in.
Overall, I rated this book a 5 stars because it does an incredible job of telling a very non-traditional love story. Sarah and Nell build a truly amazing relationship, founded on open communication, and love for one another. This book will stick with me for a while, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series. For anyone new to the series, I would recommend that you read Balancing Act first, in order to gain appreciation for Sarah.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Breadwinner is the much-anticipated sequel to Balancing Act, the first book in the "Soulmate" series. I am so honored to have received an e-ARC copy in exchange for sharing my honest thoughts. Thank you, Cass Morgan, for your stories!
NON-SPOILERY SUMMARY:
We left book one with an undeniable question: WHAT ABOUT SARAH? As we fell in love with Beth, Jamie, Lily, and their growing family dynamic, I particularly loved Sarah, Beth's ex-wife and co-parent, a protective, direct, executive lesbian... who is still helplessly in love with Beth.
Enter: NELL STANHOPE. Y'all, I thought Sarah was the baddest of them all... until Ms. Cornelia stepped in. What a ride. Nell is looking for a business arrangement, someone that will look good on her arm that she can elevate to the next level of their career. She’s all about opening doors for women coming up behind her. What’s one more?
The deal between Nell and Sarah takes an unexpected turn when they start to realize that maybe there’s more here than just business. We explore what it means to be soulmates in a way that is quite different than we expect.
REVIEW:
Overall, I felt Breadwinner was a well-paced sequel. Where Balancing Act was a bit too long, Breadwinner was the perfect length. I personally have loved reading along as Morgan’s writing and storytelling develops, feeling as if I am learning alongside her.
When it came to the romance, there were many squeal-worthy moments (I wrote “EEEEEE” in my notes, more than once). Like Sarah, I was along for the ride, letting Nell take control and handle things. I didn’t expect to relate to Sarah so much— her relief at someone else making the decisions, the empowerment she felt in letting go and relaxing into her feminine, and the struggle of trying to let go of Beth. There is a whole new appreciation for her now.
Nell is SUCH a character. She’s quirkier than her hard exterior initially portrays. The fact that she signs her texts is SO boomer-funny. I adored their completely intentional relationship and the representation of many different shapes of love… And I won’t spoil it for you, so you’ll have to see for yourself what that looks like!
More things I like, so this review doesn’t drag:
- The turkey. If you know, you know.
- The age of the characters (40s) gives me hope for the future.
- Jamie and Sarah becoming better friends.
- Sarah's nurturing side, especially to Lily and Wren.
- The Lore of Beth and Sarah. WOW, that hit hard. A very meaningful, real part of this story.
Things I wish I had seen more of:
- More friendship banter. We are told rather than shown that Sarah and Nell become closer… but I wanted to see more of that earlier. Particularly in the sailing scene, I realized that I was tired of the constant chess match dialogue.
- Nell’s character changing. It felt abrupt, and while I accepted it, I didn’t fully believe that her hard exterior would drop so fully.
- Sarah’s friends. I was worried about her early on. Who is she to her friends? I was relieved to see a character who knows Sarah well enter later in the book, but early on I was concerned about her isolation.
We receive a sneak peek of Book 3 (which may just break my heart), but I had some guesses while reading on what will happen... and one is slightly more unhinged than the other.
- Dual POV with Sarah and Beth, learning to rebuild and support each other and co-parent as healed individuals.
- A post-apocalyptic novel about them trying to escape to Nell’s Minnesota safe house and co-parenting in the apocalypse (Cass Morgan PLEASE, I think we need to see them fighting zombies or something).
NON-SPOILERY SUMMARY:
We left book one with an undeniable question: WHAT ABOUT SARAH? As we fell in love with Beth, Jamie, Lily, and their growing family dynamic, I particularly loved Sarah, Beth's ex-wife and co-parent, a protective, direct, executive lesbian... who is still helplessly in love with Beth.
Enter: NELL STANHOPE. Y'all, I thought Sarah was the baddest of them all... until Ms. Cornelia stepped in. What a ride. Nell is looking for a business arrangement, someone that will look good on her arm that she can elevate to the next level of their career. She’s all about opening doors for women coming up behind her. What’s one more?
The deal between Nell and Sarah takes an unexpected turn when they start to realize that maybe there’s more here than just business. We explore what it means to be soulmates in a way that is quite different than we expect.
REVIEW:
Overall, I felt Breadwinner was a well-paced sequel. Where Balancing Act was a bit too long, Breadwinner was the perfect length. I personally have loved reading along as Morgan’s writing and storytelling develops, feeling as if I am learning alongside her.
When it came to the romance, there were many squeal-worthy moments (I wrote “EEEEEE” in my notes, more than once). Like Sarah, I was along for the ride, letting Nell take control and handle things. I didn’t expect to relate to Sarah so much— her relief at someone else making the decisions, the empowerment she felt in letting go and relaxing into her feminine, and the struggle of trying to let go of Beth. There is a whole new appreciation for her now.
Nell is SUCH a character. She’s quirkier than her hard exterior initially portrays. The fact that she signs her texts is SO boomer-funny. I adored their completely intentional relationship and the representation of many different shapes of love… And I won’t spoil it for you, so you’ll have to see for yourself what that looks like!
More things I like, so this review doesn’t drag:
- The turkey. If you know, you know.
- The age of the characters (40s) gives me hope for the future.
- Jamie and Sarah becoming better friends.
- Sarah's nurturing side, especially to Lily and Wren.
- The Lore of Beth and Sarah. WOW, that hit hard. A very meaningful, real part of this story.
Things I wish I had seen more of:
- More friendship banter. We are told rather than shown that Sarah and Nell become closer… but I wanted to see more of that earlier. Particularly in the sailing scene, I realized that I was tired of the constant chess match dialogue.
- Nell’s character changing. It felt abrupt, and while I accepted it, I didn’t fully believe that her hard exterior would drop so fully.
- Sarah’s friends. I was worried about her early on. Who is she to her friends? I was relieved to see a character who knows Sarah well enter later in the book, but early on I was concerned about her isolation.
We receive a sneak peek of Book 3 (which may just break my heart), but I had some guesses while reading on what will happen... and one is slightly more unhinged than the other.
- Dual POV with Sarah and Beth, learning to rebuild and support each other and co-parent as healed individuals.
- A post-apocalyptic novel about them trying to escape to Nell’s Minnesota safe house and co-parenting in the apocalypse (Cass Morgan PLEASE, I think we need to see them fighting zombies or something).
May 19, 2026
Sarah deserves better. That’s it, that’s the review. Spoilers ahead for the series if you continue reading.
I saw Balancing Act when it first came out and skipped it many times because I’m not a fan of age gap, my kid brings us together romances. I also skipped Breadwinner initially because the idea of an aromantic partnership didn’t appeal to me. Call me a romantic, but I love the lovey-dovey shit. But do you know what does appeal to me? Second chance romances. So when I saw the teaser for Baggage, I said, “what the hell, let’s give this series a chance.” I won’t say I regret it, and I will be finishing the series, but I truly don’t know how the author is going to pull off bringing Beth and Sarah back together. And not because of Sarah. But solely because of Beth.
In Balancing Act, the author made it very clear that Jamie was the love of Beth’s life. And not in a “I’m so lucky to have two great love affairs” way, but in a way that made it clear that Jamie gave her everything Sarah couldn’t. The author said many, many times that Beth was unfulfilled, uninspired empty, and unhappy with Sarah. She never felt that way with Jamie. And if I didn’t read the book knowing how they’d all end up, I’d be all for it. But I did, so I was looking for something, some sort of tether that would make sense for bringing Sarah and Beth back together later. I didn’t find it. Morgan dashed all that in the first book, firmly closed that door. Morgan tried to backtrack that just a bit here to make room for the third book, but it fell flat for me. In this second book, the door creeks open but not in a cute way. It creeks open in a “let’s shut this back and give Sarah better” kind of way. The series so far just feels heavily like Beth threw Sarah away, strung her along, then threw her away again when Jamie came in the picture, and now is going to pick her back up because she’s lonely and grief stricken.
For the third book, with Jamie out of the picture, I don’t know how Morgan is going to make it clear that Sarah and Beth are soulmates and Sarah isn’t Beth’s consolation prize. I don’t think that she can given the circumstances and the groundwork laid in the first book. Which is sad because I want that all-consuming, I choose you first and always romantic kind of love for Sarah and I don’t see her getting it. Nell isn’t capable and Beth didn’t want to. Still, I will read the third book and be hopeful that Sarah gets the ending she deserves. How are you going to honor Jamie while reuniting Sarah and Beth? It’s a tall task and I don’t want it to be some sort of last wish from Jamie that they find their way back to each other. That feels like a cop out and the easy way for Beth. I want Beth to earn Sarah back the hard way or let her find someone who actually loves her.
Side note: perhaps I’m ignorant as to what aromantic means, but the relationship between Nell and Sarah looked pretty romantic to me, just without the words “I’m in love with you.” Also, not sure why Sarah didn’t fall in love with Nell by end of the book, particularly because it didn’t seem like she was still in love with Beth. She and Nell made the conscious choice to be partners and while Nell wasn’t capable of certain feelings, Sarah had no such hang ups; so, it was a bit confusing that she was able to keep the boundary after getting extremely close to Nell and letting Beth go. But perhaps that’s the reason she and Beth are able to rekindle later, she realizes she’s falling for Nell and pulls back before she’s in another unrequited cycle?
I saw Balancing Act when it first came out and skipped it many times because I’m not a fan of age gap, my kid brings us together romances. I also skipped Breadwinner initially because the idea of an aromantic partnership didn’t appeal to me. Call me a romantic, but I love the lovey-dovey shit. But do you know what does appeal to me? Second chance romances. So when I saw the teaser for Baggage, I said, “what the hell, let’s give this series a chance.” I won’t say I regret it, and I will be finishing the series, but I truly don’t know how the author is going to pull off bringing Beth and Sarah back together. And not because of Sarah. But solely because of Beth.
In Balancing Act, the author made it very clear that Jamie was the love of Beth’s life. And not in a “I’m so lucky to have two great love affairs” way, but in a way that made it clear that Jamie gave her everything Sarah couldn’t. The author said many, many times that Beth was unfulfilled, uninspired empty, and unhappy with Sarah. She never felt that way with Jamie. And if I didn’t read the book knowing how they’d all end up, I’d be all for it. But I did, so I was looking for something, some sort of tether that would make sense for bringing Sarah and Beth back together later. I didn’t find it. Morgan dashed all that in the first book, firmly closed that door. Morgan tried to backtrack that just a bit here to make room for the third book, but it fell flat for me. In this second book, the door creeks open but not in a cute way. It creeks open in a “let’s shut this back and give Sarah better” kind of way. The series so far just feels heavily like Beth threw Sarah away, strung her along, then threw her away again when Jamie came in the picture, and now is going to pick her back up because she’s lonely and grief stricken.
For the third book, with Jamie out of the picture, I don’t know how Morgan is going to make it clear that Sarah and Beth are soulmates and Sarah isn’t Beth’s consolation prize. I don’t think that she can given the circumstances and the groundwork laid in the first book. Which is sad because I want that all-consuming, I choose you first and always romantic kind of love for Sarah and I don’t see her getting it. Nell isn’t capable and Beth didn’t want to. Still, I will read the third book and be hopeful that Sarah gets the ending she deserves. How are you going to honor Jamie while reuniting Sarah and Beth? It’s a tall task and I don’t want it to be some sort of last wish from Jamie that they find their way back to each other. That feels like a cop out and the easy way for Beth. I want Beth to earn Sarah back the hard way or let her find someone who actually loves her.
Side note: perhaps I’m ignorant as to what aromantic means, but the relationship between Nell and Sarah looked pretty romantic to me, just without the words “I’m in love with you.” Also, not sure why Sarah didn’t fall in love with Nell by end of the book, particularly because it didn’t seem like she was still in love with Beth. She and Nell made the conscious choice to be partners and while Nell wasn’t capable of certain feelings, Sarah had no such hang ups; so, it was a bit confusing that she was able to keep the boundary after getting extremely close to Nell and letting Beth go. But perhaps that’s the reason she and Beth are able to rekindle later, she realizes she’s falling for Nell and pulls back before she’s in another unrequited cycle?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2026
I’m going to preface this review by saying I was not aware this was book 2 of the Soulmate series, but as soon as I finished it I literally RAN to get a copy of book 1.
Let me start by saying was soooo much longing from Sarah throughout the whole book for her ex wife. I had a hunch that this story wasn’t going to end the way I initially thought and finding out book 3 was on the way kind of confirmed for me that this was not the end of them. It was interesting to see how Sarah was struggling with the coparenting aspect and trying to push down the love she still feels for Beth, who is now in a loving relationship with Jamie and has seemingly moved on. The author did a great job depicting how difficult it is for Sarah to move on from the woman she loved and still loves so deeply while trying to maintain a good relationship for the sake of their daughter, Lily. This struggle was so perfectly written that every time I read about it my heart broke for Sarah and I was begging for Nell to jump in and do something about it.
That being said, the tension between Nell and Sarah was off the charts, I loved the back and forth between them. At first Nell seems too arrogant and controlling to be a good fit for Sarah, but as you continue reading you find out she is so sweet and caring despite not believing she can give Sarah the romanticism she wants and deserves.
They are both very nuanced characters, very human and thus fallible. Their connection is evident from the start and I enjoyed seeing them challenge each other and grow together throughout the book. Their relationship is unique, but it’s clear they love and understand each other deeply. They are definitely soulmates!
I really enjoyed Nate’s character despite him not being a main character, he is exactly the person Nell needs in her life. Their relationship is so beautiful, you can see how much they support each other and it really shows how blood does not make you family.
Loved the aromantic representation this book provides, finding characters on the aroace spectrum can often be hard. I think the author did a really good job depicting how complicated relationships can be and how love can come in many forms.
I was wondering how the author was going to make Nell and Sarah work given the fact that the latter is trying to find a romantic soulmate to spend the rest of her life with and I was genuinely afraid she was going to get her heart broken again, but the arrangement they reached satisfied me and I can’t wait to find out how this will develop in the last book of the series.
I thought I wasn’t going to enjoy the steamy scenes because at first I felt Sarah was trying to just find someone in order to move on from Beth, but the more I got into the story the more it changed my perspective. The spice was 10/10 and the chemistry between the MCs was out of this world🔥.
To be frank I got to the end honestly kind of hating the way Beth acted and loving Nell despite holding out for a second chance between Sarah and her ex wife the whole time. Beth will have to work hard to redeem herself because right now I’m leaning more towards team Nell.
Let me start by saying was soooo much longing from Sarah throughout the whole book for her ex wife. I had a hunch that this story wasn’t going to end the way I initially thought and finding out book 3 was on the way kind of confirmed for me that this was not the end of them. It was interesting to see how Sarah was struggling with the coparenting aspect and trying to push down the love she still feels for Beth, who is now in a loving relationship with Jamie and has seemingly moved on. The author did a great job depicting how difficult it is for Sarah to move on from the woman she loved and still loves so deeply while trying to maintain a good relationship for the sake of their daughter, Lily. This struggle was so perfectly written that every time I read about it my heart broke for Sarah and I was begging for Nell to jump in and do something about it.
That being said, the tension between Nell and Sarah was off the charts, I loved the back and forth between them. At first Nell seems too arrogant and controlling to be a good fit for Sarah, but as you continue reading you find out she is so sweet and caring despite not believing she can give Sarah the romanticism she wants and deserves.
They are both very nuanced characters, very human and thus fallible. Their connection is evident from the start and I enjoyed seeing them challenge each other and grow together throughout the book. Their relationship is unique, but it’s clear they love and understand each other deeply. They are definitely soulmates!
I really enjoyed Nate’s character despite him not being a main character, he is exactly the person Nell needs in her life. Their relationship is so beautiful, you can see how much they support each other and it really shows how blood does not make you family.
Loved the aromantic representation this book provides, finding characters on the aroace spectrum can often be hard. I think the author did a really good job depicting how complicated relationships can be and how love can come in many forms.
I was wondering how the author was going to make Nell and Sarah work given the fact that the latter is trying to find a romantic soulmate to spend the rest of her life with and I was genuinely afraid she was going to get her heart broken again, but the arrangement they reached satisfied me and I can’t wait to find out how this will develop in the last book of the series.
I thought I wasn’t going to enjoy the steamy scenes because at first I felt Sarah was trying to just find someone in order to move on from Beth, but the more I got into the story the more it changed my perspective. The spice was 10/10 and the chemistry between the MCs was out of this world🔥.
To be frank I got to the end honestly kind of hating the way Beth acted and loving Nell despite holding out for a second chance between Sarah and her ex wife the whole time. Beth will have to work hard to redeem herself because right now I’m leaning more towards team Nell.
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