Not Part of the Plan

by Clare Lydon, Claire Storey (Narrator)

Some partnerships are made in heaven. This one? Definitely hell....

Poppy Voss has successfully dodged the family watch business her entire adult life, until her aunt threatens to sell it out from under her. Suddenly desperate to preserve the legacy, Poppy persuades her aunt to give her a chance to prove herself. There's just one tiny, soul-crushing she has to work alongside Eliza Carpenter, the childhood best friend she's been expertly avoiding since they were teenagers.

Dragging the company into the 21st century should be simple enough. Except Poppy keeps getting distracted by how annoyingly attractive Eliza has become. Meanwhile, her sister won't stop consulting mediums about their dead mother, and then there's her growing suspicion that Eliza isn't revealing the full story.

With everything she's ever cared about on the line—her family's legacy, her heart, and her future—Poppy must learn to rely on the one person she's not sure she can forgive, while discovering the most difficult person to believe in might be herself. But she better hurry up before time runs out.

Genres: Romance, Lesbian, Audiobook, Lesbian Fiction, Contemporary, Queer, Friends To Lovers

Audible Audio

Published December 2, 2025

About the author

Clare Lydon is a London-based writer of contemporary lesbian romance. She's a No.1 best-seller on lesbian fiction charts around the globe with five full-length novels to her name, as well as writing the All I Want series, set to continue throughout 2016. If you love romantic comedies, prepare to fall head over heels in love.

If you like books shot through with witty dialogue, 3D characters and sharp observations of modern lesbian life, why not give Clare's books a try?

More at: www.clarelydon.co.uk

Get a copy of my free Christmas novella 'It Had To Be You' by signing up to my mailing list here:

www.clarelydon.co.uk/it-had-to-be-you

Reviews

[Rene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just can’t rate this anything under a 5 ⭐️ rating. This was very different than what I was expecting; kinda weird actually, but I still liked it a lot. It had a bit of spice, deception, paranormal, love, and fun. It kept my interest all the way through and the ending was great. Very well written and I definitely recommend it.

[Teddy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of this book and the characters, and the Highlands setting. The ghosts gave me a bit of pause. Also, and I know this is unfair, but I think I would have enjoyed it more from Eliza’s pov. She seemed to grow a lot from their relationship but I didn’t know enough to know why and I wanted to bc I liked her. I also would have loved more from the second chance aspect- more memories and pining. So for me the premise was there, I just wanted a little more.

Short summary: Poppy has 3 months to prove she can take over her family’s company or her aunt will sell it. And she has to do it with her friend-turned-enemy, Eliza.

Thanks to the author, Clare Lydon. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[RomanceReadingJess · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars for me. Thank you to the author Clare Lydon for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. I've read several of Clare's books at this point and I honestly feel like they just keep getting better. This story is a childhoods friends to enemies(ish) to lovers story. It's about reconnecting with someone from your past and learning that second chances can be worth it. This was a slow burn with plenty of tension and I loved that. It had fun witty banter, emotional moments, and even a little supernatural element. I really enjoyed seeing Poppy's character development and learning to trust herself. The only thing I had a small issue with was that I feel like the ultimate conflict was cleaned up a little too easily maybe? Don't want to say too much to spoil, but if I had to pick a criticism, that would be the only thing. This book will be perfect for anyone that likes sapphic romance, second chance, enemies to lovers, healing arcs, or books about finding a new path, you'll love this one.

[Georgia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ✨ sometimes all you need is a fun, cute, lighthearted romance

[Carol Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Time for a change!

Poppy has never been interested in being a part of the family business making watches in Scotland, but when her aunt is planning to sell it, she wants to save the legacy from being ruined by big business. There is only one problem, to prove herself and that she can bring the business into modern day she has to work with Eliza. They were firm friends when they were younger until life took them in different directions, but having avoided Eliza for so long, Poppy has quite the challenge ahead of her.

Such a fun story, especially with the tension between Poppy and Eliza because of Poppy trying to avoid her. They have a lot of history, but Poppy can’t help still being attracted to Eliza and it just elevates this challenge to a whole other level for her. For Poppy and her sister, having lost their mother when they were young, I could totally understand why both of them had been reluctant to follow in her footsteps and commit to the business. I loved how their mum, and grandmother still played a big part in the story and Poppy’s journey into running it.

We’d had a glimpse into the past and what she and Poppy had shared as friends, and then only Poppy’s side of things when she found out she had to work with Eliza. Eliza was just as I expected her to be, but she also surprised me a lot, and Poppy too. She was warm and her only real goal was to help Poppy, not do the bidding of others that wanted to do things differently, like her father, but it took her being involved in the business with Poppy to realise that fully. I adored them together, and they supported one another until Poppy thought Eliza had been working against her the whole time.

Of course this had all the expected humour from Clare Lydon, wrapped up in a lovely story with just the right amount of drama to make it a perfect second chance at romance. I adored this story and just got wrapped up in all the excitement of Poppy’s success and the budding romance between her and Eliza.

[Vita L. Licari · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous enemies to lovers love story! Poppy and Eliza we're best friends growing up. Eliza was 4 yrs older and when she went higher grades and to University she ignored Poppy.This po'd Poppy. Her family started and owns Voss Watches, but both Poppy's grand mother and Mother passed within 4 days of each other. Poppy's and Katy’s Aunt took over as CEO. NOW she wants to sell the company. Poppy who isn't 30 yet has no say, but Margot gives her3 months to prove herself. Only problem is Eliza has to help her.
This is a fabulous book! A FAVORITE! I LOVE THIS BOOK! 5tars!!!!

[MJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Another great book by Clare Lydon! I always know I’m in safe hands with her! I’m a sucker for a second chance romance, so I really enjoyed this. Forced proximity and one (bunk) bed, what fun….I love where this went and how these friends found their way back to each other. Highly recommend this and any of Clare’s books for that matter!

Written in first person with a single POV. Narrated by Claire Storey. Forced Proximity, Second Chance, Friends to Lovers, Return to Hometown, Found Family. 4x Spicy Scenes.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

[M.E. Tudor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. It's a enemies to lovers story with some ghost visitors. Great read!

[Mari Stark · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful enemies-to-lovers/second-chance romance

I absolutely loved this book! From the very first page, I was hooked by the story's unique blend of romance and a touch of the paranormal. It adds just the right amount of intrigue and magic to make the plot stand out. It’s a well-written second-chance romance that I enjoyed greatly.

The author masterfully weaves together some of my favorite tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, fake girlfriends, and, of course, that sweet second-chance-at-love. Each one is used in a way that feels fresh and exciting, and the chemistry between the characters is off the charts.

The pacing is a little fast at times, but it works. The story flows with energy and emotion, and the characters are so well-written that I didn’t want to put it down. The ending was absolutely beautiful, romantic, heartfelt, and the perfect conclusion to a story I didn’t want to end.

If you love romance with a twist, unforgettable characters, and all the tropes that make your heart flutter, this book is a must-read. Highly recommended!

I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read and have been entertained by several books written by Clare Lydon so always eagerly await her next offering. Not Part of the Plan fulfilled my expectations. Poppy and Eliza are childhood friends who grew apart as they grew up and, years later, are forced to work together in adulthood. The story is told from Poppy's point of view, so we're privy to her thoughts and feelings throughout and can easily empathize with each decision she made. I was anxious to learn what secrets, if any, Eliza might be hiding and was rooting for them despite any apprehension I might have had. I especially loved the dialogue and the humor in this slow burn romance. If you're a fan of enemies to lovers second chance romances, you should enjoy this one, too.

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Petrina Doyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

The blurb was a little misleading on this, saying Poppy's sister won't stop consulting mediums. While that's true, a bigger part of the plot is Poppy herself "feeling" and smelling ghostly presences and talking to her dead mum and nan. This was all far-fetched but I could let it slide if the rest of the story was good, but unfortunately this was a miss for me.

There were definitely some good points. Eliza and Poppy did have chemistry, and I loved Roka's character, but the rest of the side characters are almost cartoonish in either their virtue or villainy, at least through Poppy's eyes.

I don't think it's made very clear why Eliza and Poppy stopped being friends, or more specifically, how they came to be enemies. It's kind of presented that they just drifted apart, which would make sense, but again it goes back to that cartoon villain way that Poppy views the world. Eliza didn't do anything wrong as far as I can tell, and yet Poppy views her as her nemesis? Make it make sense, if I've missed something.

I will still always read a Clare Lydon book, as she has written some fab stories, but this one was just ok.

[James · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5*

altogether fun and sweet. However, the pairing don't really have many obstacles in getting together, although the characters do have great chemistry and work nicely as characters. It felt a lot like the characters of a 3.5* book in the plot of a 2* book.

Also, ghosts?? the ghosts don't serve any purpose in the book and it's left kind of up to the reader if they're real or mundane. But this is literature; you can make it real if you want?! Instead we get a halfway house where the "ghosts" serve no purpose but show up and stir the pot every few chapters. I really hated this wishy-washy approach to ghosts. be paranormal or don't. pick one.

[Doug Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not Part Of The Plan brings business executive Poppy back into regular contact with her teenage crush Eliza. As they work to save Poppy’s family business their relationship oscillates back and forth between antagonistic and romantic. While the story arc avoids outright melodrama, rapid changes in Poppy’s feelings towards Eliza are not always easy to follow. When rising tension over differing objectives for the family business finally forces the key characters to communicate, the situation resolves quickly with unexpected ease.

The couple is surrounded by a supporting cast with a diverse set of objectives, not all of them helpful. At times the plot wanders into the paranormal as Poppy may be receiving messages from her late mother and grandmother. Minor quibbles aside, this is a good read with a satisfying conclusion.

[B · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 Stars

[Gina L · Rating 5 out of 5]

A 28th Story That Has So Much Merit Just Like The Writer 💕

This is a book that has so much depth to it. It has happiness, it has sadness, it has awkwardness, it has untrusting, it has broken hearts & broken dreams. Despite all this, Poppy is fighting for her shot to run the family watch company Voss, before her Aunt sells. And although she doesn’t really have a say until she is 30, she is 29 and going to fight for it. But her Aunt gives her one chance with stipulations. Stipulations that brings back her childhood best friend, Eliza who ghosted her after she left for college. Eliza was four years older than Poppy who had a serious crush. As things start to happen, suddenly Poppy finds her hard work that she and Eliza are doing are not being done for the same reasons. The story takes us through different turns and events happen that keeps us so focused that you can’t help finishing this is one sitting. Lots going on. But you are going to be pissed off at a few characters. It is going to get all emotional. You are going to appreciate Clare Lydon’s storytelling. A Must Read as this is Clare’s best.

[Maz Tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The writing is brilliant, drawing me in from the very first page. The characters are richly developed, and I was especially moved by the way they gradually overcome their hatred and unease toward each other. It was a beautiful and believable transformation, and I loved how the author explored the complexities of their emotions. The pacing was perfect, and the character development really stood out to me. Overall, a captivating read that kept me hooked until the end.

[Andrea · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 rounded down. Felt like it was missing that Clare spark.

[Shannon Luchies · Rating 3 out of 5]

Poppy has (mostly) avoided her family legacy with Voss Watches, especially as everyone has sort of expected her to take it over one day. But hearing from her sister Katy that her Aunt might sell the company bothers her.

Poppy makes a pitch, but Aunt Margot is dubious. She's also, apparently, sleeping with the potential buyer. So she'll let Poppy try for six months, and she has to work with Poppy's childhood crush, Eliza Carpenter, the buyer's daughter.

(As Margot is literally sleeping with the buyer, isn't that unethical? She should at least remove herself from the decision making progress.)

Eliza is actually supportive, and seems to want to resume their friendship, but she's also there as Max's eyes and ears. Poppy, bluntly, doesn't trust her.

Poppy's idea is to shoot for a younger, queer market, and they successfully sign rocker Roka. At the same time on the trip Eliza and Poppy sleep together. But after they get home, she overhears a conversation implying Eliza is keeping secrets.

(The regular appearances of the psychic medium really irks me. I am just NOT into that shit and it's annoying. Here's hoping she gets revealed as a fraud.)

The big launch is great, then Poppy finds out that Max is plotting with Eliza to oust her, then sell off the more successful company for more. And Margot is involved.

Third act breakup, Poppy tells off everybody.

Katy is as appalled as Poppy is, and both go to confront Aunt Margot. She confesses that she was trying to sell because the girls' Mom had thought they didn't want it, and asked Margot to sell. Tearful discussion follows. (Wouldn't Poppy just go 'Why shouldn't I assume you're lying? Again?')
A fix would be having a actual, physical letter from Mom.

Margot also wants to keep seeing Max. In any reasonable world Poppy would go 'Fuck no, I don't trust him out of my sight.'

They agree that no sale, and Poppy stays on. Then Eliza apologizes, and everything is ok again.
Yeah, just did NOT buy the ending. Didn't feel credible to me.

3 out of 5 stars. Good writing, good-ish story until the end.

[Wolf2001 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delicious Sapphic Romance Bounding Between London, NY and the Scottish Highlands

In this delicious sapphic romance, Poppy Voss is a business graduate struggling to convince herself that fighting her boss at every turn is truly fulfilling the dream of a life in business she had envisioned. Could it be time for a change? Then her sister Katy tells her that Voss Watches, the family firm started by her grandmother, is about to be sold by their aunt, who had taken it over after their mother’s death. Poppy decides that instead of running away from her folks, it’s time to step up and try and save the company. There’s only one problem: her aunt tells her that events have progressed, and she’ll have to submit to a three-month probationary period supervised by the one person she truly can’t abide...

And that is? None other than her childhood crush, Eliza Carpenter, from whom she is now estranged. Eliza is working for her dad—who is not only Poppy’s aunt’s current flame but also the owner of a company that’s threatening to take over and gut Voss Watches. To make matters worse, Eliza has grown into an absolutely gorgeous, intelligent and independent woman.

If this set-up reads like an episode of the 1970s US sitcom Soap, it is equally as entertaining. Clare Lydon’s inimitable sparkly wit shines through on every page, delivered in inspired lines of dialogue. The cast of characters is refreshingly original, from unerringly prescient mediums to charismatic but down-to-earth and truly likeable rock stars. The plot, by turns steamy and hilarious, bounds from London to the Scottish Highlands and onward to chic NY. It includes upending antics in a row boat, steamy kisses on an overnight train and glamping it raunchily at a music festival.

Whatever your sexual persuasion, Clare Lydon is a brilliantly entertaining writer, and Not Part of the Plan is one of her most engaging books. So if you only read one sapphic romance this year, make it this one!

[D D · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this book. MC’s written super well, good premise, a little supernatural and spice. I would’ve given this 5 stars had there been a slightly different reaction and solutions to the deception that happens later in the story. I’m trying not to give much of a spoiler but the way the author handled it rubbed me the wrong way. Way to clean, no tangible well deserved consequences either in my opinion. Everyone just glossed over a breaking of trust, relationships and disrespect to the MC and I don't think the author did enough to negate that for me. If I had been in the same shoes, I would not have acted the way things were written in the book nor do I think any other sane and reasonable person would either. It was betrayal of the highest form, the fact that the MC’s close relative refused to hold the person to any standard really pissed me off. The relative in question also did some underhanded bs that felt like it was swept under the rug and “resolved” but left a sour taste in my mouth. (I haven’t even finished the book yet but I couldn’t help myself to write this down because I’m so heated by it all and the lack of actual consequences). Some reviewers are like “wow this was great! Good character development, helped the MC learn to trust herself” !??! I’m like how is she supposed to trust herself when two of the most important people in her life broke that trust by undermining, thinking low of her and letting her put all this effort into something they could clearly see her trying?! Yet they continued with the charade until she discovered it herself? Didn’t intend to change their minds whatsoever until she confronted them??Where is the accountability!?

[Jeimy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This romance succeeds most in its emotional setup. It is easy to understand why young Poppy resents Eliza and why she remains suspicious of her years later, especially given Eliza’s connection to a businessman known for buying family companies only to dismantle them for profit. Poppy’s complicated relationship with her family’s watch company also adds emotional depth. The business represents both legacy and loss: her mother’s ambition, absence, and possibly even the stress that contributed to her early death.

What follows is a classic second-chance romance wrapped in a save-the-family-business storyline, and the novel embraces its romantic conventions wholeheartedly. Poppy is given three months to prove she can modernize the company before gaining a formal voice in its future, but doing so requires partnering with the one person she has spent years avoiding. Their shared history gives the relationship emotional tension and chemistry that keeps the narrative consistently engaging.

Yes, some of the plot developments are too convenient: A world-famous pop star becoming invested in their plight, concert tickets, glamping, and the inevitable “only one bed” setup all require readers to surrender to the fun of it. Fortunately, the novel understands exactly what kind of story it wants to be and commits fully to it.

While I did have some minor frustrations, the romance ultimately won me over. The author delivers strong chemistry, satisfying romantic tension, and characters whose vulnerabilities feel believable beneath all the heightened drama. This was an entertaining romance. That is exactly what I want from the genre, and this novel delivered.

[Hope Freed · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this Clare Lydon produces another immensely readable and satisfying rom-com that touches on multiple tropes - childhood friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, having to share one bed and even a bit of ‘fake romance’ thrown in for good measure. The story is told from Poppy’s perspective as she faces up to her responsibilities in the aftermath of grief. She has run scared from her family’s ‘successful but in need of new ideas’ watch company for all her life so far. However, when she learns that the company may be sold to a corporate asset stripper, she makes a somewhat sudden ‘about face’ and decides she wants to try a stint as CEO. Her old childhood friend, now nemesis, Eliza, (a successful businesswoman in her own right) is brought in to oversee matters and it’s not long before sparks are flying. Meanwhile, Poppy is receiving some messages from ‘beyond the grave’ and comes up with a really good idea to make the brand appeal to a younger demographic….
Poppy and Eliza are both likeable characters (even if you do feel inclined at one particular time to give Poppy a good shake about the way she doesn’t listen and jumps to conclusions!). The sex is sizzling but this is rom-com most of the way and I LOL’d at the boating incident in particular. As I’ve said, it’s all immensely readable and I raced through this in what felt like very little time. If you’re looking for a feel-good pick me up, then this will certainly fit the bill!

[Dani Sprague · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was drawn into this because it claimed to be friends-to-enemies-to-lovers, a trope which I love, but it kind of flopped on that front. They went back to friends™ WAY too fast for it to feel like they were actually enemies. I also don't think they ever had good enough of a conversation about what actually happened between them? It could have worked better in a dual perspective novel, but alas.

The cream scene also gave me a bit of an ick; that can't be healthy.

I also wish there was more romantic chemistry shown outside of sexual tension or business. Like, I honestly don't care about sex in romance novels; I'm there for the romance. The end improved a lot on this, and there was one other scene that was mostly good for this. Still, I wish there were more.

Oh, also the medium thing was kind of odd and unexpected to me. I'm somewhat spiritual and was down for the spirits guiding Poppy, but the specifics of the blue pen and the location of the recipe were too much for me. The messaging of the dead guiding Poppy and her grief were cool though.

That all being said, I enjoyed this novel and read through it quickly. It still made me smile and I was curious to see what would happen with the business. Was Poppy truly wanting the business? Would it be sold? I knew it would be a HEA, but that could have looked like multiple things for Poppy due to her uncertainty about herself and her grief.

[Henriette · Rating 4 out of 5]

sexy, thoughtful and (partly) set in Scotland
Clare Lydon again takes us on an epic journey: self-discovery, second chance romance and family secrets, London, NYC, Scotland, Switzerland.
Poppy has shied away from the family business - luxury watches - for good reason. Now she wants to try and is teamed up with her first crush Eliza who is a savy business woman and part of her father‘s business. Turns out Poppy has a knack for great business ideas. And then there is the slow simmer with Eliza with lots of times together. But family business have their own rules and there are some twists ahead.
I loved the slow burn, the enthusiasm of Poppy‘s ideas. The pinch of paranormal fitted into the story surprisingly well. I liked their travelling and esp. the Scottish setting.
As always with Clare Lydon: well-written, great chemistry and a good story.

I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.

[Karen Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

NoComment (AU)

Well, I have to begin by saying that Clare Lydon NEVER fails to deliver.
Our two female protagonists turned lovers (sorry, no warning, but I wouldn’t think a spoiler alert was required for that unsurprising little snippet), and then there was the subterfuge which kept me guessing until almost the last turn of the page.
“Not Part Of The Plan” has it all… in addition to the love and drama building throughout in seemingly equal measure, there are the almost obligatory sex scenes… and if that’s what floats your boat, then “Weather Alert”, be on your guard and be sure to have your eagle-eyes peeled looking out for periods of brief but HIGH SEAS, to ensure that no-one finishes up overboard!
Clare Lydon, another worthy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me, as she steadily climbs her way up my All-Time SapphFic Books and / or Authors Top One-Hundred Ladder, sitting very comfortably within my Top Ten, so thanks Clare!

[Julia Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book.

It starts out with the story of two friends Poppy and Eliza who were good friends when they were younger and drifted apart. They are grown now and both lesbian. They have both grown into strong business women and Poppy is given a difficult decision to make since the passing of her mother and grandmother. Eliza comes back into Poppy’s life like a whirlwind and Poppy has to prove herself. She has to go through a lot of emotions and figure out who to trust.

This book is incredible with lots of romance! I love Clare Lydon because her books are so easy to read and I always have a hard time putting them down. Her style does take some getting used to since she is a British author but all in all she is one of my favorites. Highly recommend this book if you like lesbian romance!!

[MS J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this latest story from Claire Lydon.
Poppy Voss, what a great name by the way, had no desire to ever run the company that stole so much of both her Mother and Grandmother.
Poppy has fond memories of her childhood summers spent in Scotland near the families company factory. Those summers included spending time with her unrequited love interest, the older family friend, Eliza.
They once dreamed of living in Scotland in a quaint cottage, but childhood dreams don't come true. The friends seem to be poles apart, Eliza married and became a shark in the world of business.
When the two find themselves having to work together for 3 or is it 6 months to save the company spark fly. If you haven't read a Clare Lydon story this one won't disappoint. It's on my TBR pile for a second round.

[Mireille · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely Recommend

Clare Lyndon does not disappoint with her latest release, Not Part of the Plan. It’s enemies to lovers meets second chance with a dash of mystery and betrayal. Add in family drama, angst, and a couple of ghosts for good measure, and you’ve got yourself a page turner. I feel like I’ve given too many spoilers. (Spoiler: I haven’t)

Poppy and Eliza were once good friends who drifted apart. Their paths intersect when their family businesses collide. The drama, betrayal, and heart-wrenching pain of grief will have you in tears. Bring tissues. Lots of tissues.

I devoured this on one sleepy Sunday morning in bed with a cuppa and a cheese toastie.

[Amy Kyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This ended up being very spiritual and all about keeping in touch with passed relatives and letting them guide you where possible.

I didn't think it was quite enemies to lovers, more friends who lost touch and then avoided the awkwardness after, but I really liked both characters and how they evolved. This was a fun, cosy and cutesy listen - even with the dash of lies and plotting behind her back!

I love Clare Lydon's books, they always have a genuine story to tell and have good character development with lots of fun. This was a good take on trying to stay true to a family business whilst putting your own spin on it. Also loved the other characters, especially Roka!