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Apparently It's Love #1
This Wasn't The Plan
By day, Madison Callahan is a crisis manager. She can spin a narrative and bury a scandal without breaking a sweat.
By night, she’s arguing with a treadmill-thudding trauma doctor living in the apartment upstairs.
Beckett Lawson doesn’t do messy. He fixes what’s broken and keeps his emotions locked down tight. But the fiery redhead in apartment 3B is rapidly becoming the most complicated case of his life.
Between midnight stairwell showdowns, political firestorms, and a family history Madison is desperate to outrun, neither of them planned on this.
They definitely didn’t plan on each other.
But they’re about to learn that the best things in life rarely stick to the plan.
By night, she’s arguing with a treadmill-thudding trauma doctor living in the apartment upstairs.
Beckett Lawson doesn’t do messy. He fixes what’s broken and keeps his emotions locked down tight. But the fiery redhead in apartment 3B is rapidly becoming the most complicated case of his life.
Between midnight stairwell showdowns, political firestorms, and a family history Madison is desperate to outrun, neither of them planned on this.
They definitely didn’t plan on each other.
But they’re about to learn that the best things in life rarely stick to the plan.
Published April 2, 2026
About the author
Laura Ashley Gallagher
12 books350 followersLaura Ashley was born and raised in Ireland, where she spent a large part of her childhood and teenage years studying music. Drawn to people’s stories and a lifelong storyteller, she went on to study journalism. Laura Ashley specializes in crafting stories with heaps of romance and maybe even a few tears. When she is not writing, she is spending time and having fun with her husband and young son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
April 3, 2026
This book is going to live rent-free in my head for a very long time… the kind that quietly taps you on the shoulder at 2am and says, “remember that emotional damage?” and you just have to sit there and feel things.
It gave me those same lingering, soul-tugging vibes as The Surrender Wall (different author but still)… not in plot, but in that deeply reflective, slightly bruised way where you walk away with life lessons you didn’t consent to but probably needed.
Now listen… I have not laughed this much, been emotionally wrecked, felt actual heat, and experienced full-body suspense in one book for a while. This one said “why choose one emotion when you can have all of them at once?” and honestly… respect.
Madi absolutely stole my heart. As the eldest daughter carrying the weight of caring responsibilities, her struggles felt painfully real. There’s a rawness to her that hits you square in the chest. The portrayal of bipolar disorder was handled with so much care and sensitivity that it genuinely made me pause and wonder about the author’s connection to it. It felt seen, not just written.
But she’s also chaotic in the most lovable way… ordering a mysterious Rose we all now desperately need details on, accidentally sending it to her nemesis neighbour, throwing her back out mid-sneeze, and engaging in elite-level knock-a-door-run with children. Iconic behaviour, honestly.
And then there’s Beckett… sir. A walking hero complex wrapped in emotional damage. You want to hug him, fix him, and then immediately let him ruin your life in the bedroom. When he finally opens up about his dad, you can practically hear the ice cracking. He’s running from his demons… quite literally at times (THUD THUD… if you know, you know), but alongside Madi, you see something softer begin to form.
Their dynamic isn’t about one saving the other… it’s about two people repeatedly saving themselves and slowly, cautiously, letting the other in. It’s messy, human, and painfully beautiful.
The humour? Elite. Because yes, everyone obviously needs a spatula as a housewarming gift.
The spice? Immaculate. No notes.
The emotional damage? Significant.
I genuinely struggled to put this down. It had me in a chokehold from start to finish.
My only gripe… PIPER. I need answers. I need closure. I need emotional stability. But I know it’s coming next and I will be seated, feral and ready.
An unforgettable read that will linger with so many people for a long time.
Thank you Laura Ashley Gallagher for providing this ARC of This Wasn't the Plan in exchange for my review.
It gave me those same lingering, soul-tugging vibes as The Surrender Wall (different author but still)… not in plot, but in that deeply reflective, slightly bruised way where you walk away with life lessons you didn’t consent to but probably needed.
Now listen… I have not laughed this much, been emotionally wrecked, felt actual heat, and experienced full-body suspense in one book for a while. This one said “why choose one emotion when you can have all of them at once?” and honestly… respect.
Madi absolutely stole my heart. As the eldest daughter carrying the weight of caring responsibilities, her struggles felt painfully real. There’s a rawness to her that hits you square in the chest. The portrayal of bipolar disorder was handled with so much care and sensitivity that it genuinely made me pause and wonder about the author’s connection to it. It felt seen, not just written.
But she’s also chaotic in the most lovable way… ordering a mysterious Rose we all now desperately need details on, accidentally sending it to her nemesis neighbour, throwing her back out mid-sneeze, and engaging in elite-level knock-a-door-run with children. Iconic behaviour, honestly.
And then there’s Beckett… sir. A walking hero complex wrapped in emotional damage. You want to hug him, fix him, and then immediately let him ruin your life in the bedroom. When he finally opens up about his dad, you can practically hear the ice cracking. He’s running from his demons… quite literally at times (THUD THUD… if you know, you know), but alongside Madi, you see something softer begin to form.
Their dynamic isn’t about one saving the other… it’s about two people repeatedly saving themselves and slowly, cautiously, letting the other in. It’s messy, human, and painfully beautiful.
The humour? Elite. Because yes, everyone obviously needs a spatula as a housewarming gift.
The spice? Immaculate. No notes.
The emotional damage? Significant.
I genuinely struggled to put this down. It had me in a chokehold from start to finish.
My only gripe… PIPER. I need answers. I need closure. I need emotional stability. But I know it’s coming next and I will be seated, feral and ready.
An unforgettable read that will linger with so many people for a long time.
Thank you Laura Ashley Gallagher for providing this ARC of This Wasn't the Plan in exchange for my review.
May 11, 2026
All the ⭐️’s. I don’t have the words for how much I loved this book. I’m currently just sitting in my feels enjoying my book hangover. ❤️📕.
This book had everything I love:
✔️two mature characters (both in their 30’s)
✔️two equally strong partners
✔️an actual plot w character growth that matches the growth as a couple
✔️a fully devoted MMC who won’t let her walk away when she’s scared and an FMC who listens
✔️two characters who have lived life and have some trauma but are emotionally mature
✔️Full communication and holding each other accountable
✔️Spice that adds to their relationship and story
✔️So much fun banter and humor.
✔️No third act breakup
✔️No OM/OW
✔️Dual POV; HEA. 10 yr later epilogue - No children. I loved that they stayed a true to themselves and their characters. This was handled beautifully.
Madison ❤️ Beckett
Madison first meets Beckett when she throws her back out and he is her attending physician in the ER. It later turns out that he is also her new upstairs neighbor and he makes a racket (he “thumps” on his treadmill. lol). It’s driving her insane. As they get to know each other little by little through these encounters, they allow each other to see more of themselves and open up to each other. We also learn that she is a powerful successful PR woman and is no wilting wallflower. I adore how much mutual respect there is between these two characters. He accepts her as she is and she does the same for him. They are genuinely THERE for each other.
He lost his father tragically at the age of 19 and her mother is struggling with a bipolar disorder. We see the unvarnished truth of these struggles and how they each slowly let each other in and grow closer.
It deals w heavy issues with so much humor and heart that it feels fully balanced and so satisfying. I have no notes.
❤️❤️ i cannot say enough about this story. I hope you read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
Some little bits I loved:
- when she’s drunk/drugged and says how hot and handsome he is
- when she first marches up to his door (not knowing who he is) and she’s is so much pain from her back but she does it anyway bc she’s afraid of elevators and confronts him
- her ridiculous slippers
- when he takes her shopping and buys her shoes bc she’s been told she’s difficult and high maintenance and he’s like “bring it on; I got you”.
This book had everything I love:
✔️two mature characters (both in their 30’s)
✔️two equally strong partners
✔️an actual plot w character growth that matches the growth as a couple
✔️a fully devoted MMC who won’t let her walk away when she’s scared and an FMC who listens
✔️two characters who have lived life and have some trauma but are emotionally mature
✔️Full communication and holding each other accountable
✔️Spice that adds to their relationship and story
✔️So much fun banter and humor.
✔️No third act breakup
✔️No OM/OW
✔️Dual POV; HEA. 10 yr later epilogue - No children. I loved that they stayed a true to themselves and their characters. This was handled beautifully.
Madison ❤️ Beckett
Madison first meets Beckett when she throws her back out and he is her attending physician in the ER. It later turns out that he is also her new upstairs neighbor and he makes a racket (he “thumps” on his treadmill. lol). It’s driving her insane. As they get to know each other little by little through these encounters, they allow each other to see more of themselves and open up to each other. We also learn that she is a powerful successful PR woman and is no wilting wallflower. I adore how much mutual respect there is between these two characters. He accepts her as she is and she does the same for him. They are genuinely THERE for each other.
He lost his father tragically at the age of 19 and her mother is struggling with a bipolar disorder. We see the unvarnished truth of these struggles and how they each slowly let each other in and grow closer.
It deals w heavy issues with so much humor and heart that it feels fully balanced and so satisfying. I have no notes.
❤️❤️ i cannot say enough about this story. I hope you read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
Some little bits I loved:
- when she’s drunk/drugged and says how hot and handsome he is
- when she first marches up to his door (not knowing who he is) and she’s is so much pain from her back but she does it anyway bc she’s afraid of elevators and confronts him
- her ridiculous slippers
- when he takes her shopping and buys her shoes bc she’s been told she’s difficult and high maintenance and he’s like “bring it on; I got you”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2026
What I thought would be a fluffy little romance ended up having a lot more emotional depth to it especially with Madi's character and I ended up relating to parts more than I expected, but I enjoyed the story so will be keeping an eye out for other books by the author
July 18, 2026
Waaa vond deze heel leuk! Heb elke emotie gevoeld en love it! Heb hardop gelachen! Niet mega bijzonder, wel een fijne intermezzo!! En heerlijke schrijfstijl :)
July 25, 2026
Great book
I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and emotional. Had everything you would want in a good book. Characters and storyline very well written
I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and emotional. Had everything you would want in a good book. Characters and storyline very well written
April 18, 2026
This was so cute and exactly what I needed to get me out of my slump. Romcoms to the rescue every single time. There was some sadness in this but mostly it was funny and cute and I loved Becket and Madison’s love story. No third act breakup just one character trying to pull away out of fear and the other not letting them. I also loved the ending so much! When a character says they don’t want kids from the beginning and they don’t change their mind they don’t have kids and we see them happy and fulfilled in that choice. I’ll definitely read more by this author I am intrigued about the next book about Poppy 👀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2026
Um wow
I wasn’t expecting that at all but this one hit so hard. It was really good. I loved both characters and the growth was so fun to watch unfold. The banter in the beginning was great and you could feel the palpable chemistry leaking off the page from the very beginning to the very end. The hospital meet cute was so cute and funny. I do wish some things had gone a little deeper and we got more moments of interactions with friends but I did love how we got little moments of both of their jobs. What made this one really amazing was just how they grew together as a couple and were each there for the other when they broke and needed someone to hold them up or lay down in the trenches with them. Watching how Beckett loved Madison was also so incredibly moving. That’s truly the love you dream of as a little girl. The writing was also super unique and good in a way that I can’t really explain. So I’d def recommend this one. The type of the book that makes you wish you could dive into the pages and also never stop reading because you don’t want to leave these characters.
I wasn’t expecting that at all but this one hit so hard. It was really good. I loved both characters and the growth was so fun to watch unfold. The banter in the beginning was great and you could feel the palpable chemistry leaking off the page from the very beginning to the very end. The hospital meet cute was so cute and funny. I do wish some things had gone a little deeper and we got more moments of interactions with friends but I did love how we got little moments of both of their jobs. What made this one really amazing was just how they grew together as a couple and were each there for the other when they broke and needed someone to hold them up or lay down in the trenches with them. Watching how Beckett loved Madison was also so incredibly moving. That’s truly the love you dream of as a little girl. The writing was also super unique and good in a way that I can’t really explain. So I’d def recommend this one. The type of the book that makes you wish you could dive into the pages and also never stop reading because you don’t want to leave these characters.
May 12, 2026
Thank you to the author posting small tease on her thread account I would not found it without it.
This book it’s sooo good.
I’ve never felt so seen while reading this book. There’s a lot in this reminds me of me, who I was and loved the FMC was portrayed.
Becket has a lot on his plate, but he doesn’t give up or run away so quick. He is definitely traumatized with the spatula 🤣🤣🤣
Never loose yourself
Let people in, they want to truly help you
Don’t assume showing your true self, they will run. If they do they were never worthy of you
So much parts in this book I laughed so hard
Definitely recommend
This book it’s sooo good.
I’ve never felt so seen while reading this book. There’s a lot in this reminds me of me, who I was and loved the FMC was portrayed.
Becket has a lot on his plate, but he doesn’t give up or run away so quick. He is definitely traumatized with the spatula 🤣🤣🤣
Never loose yourself
Let people in, they want to truly help you
Don’t assume showing your true self, they will run. If they do they were never worthy of you
So much parts in this book I laughed so hard
Definitely recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2026
This book had so much wit and funny quips. I was giggling, literally giggling, out loud while reading. Beckett and Madison’s development as a couple was great.
“He brought me to hot fucking yoga. We’re in a room that feels like the inside of Satan’s armpit, doing poses invented by people who clearly had vendettas against the human spine.”
I loved that the author called out what a strong FMC, like Madison, hears or has heard in the past and how she tried to mask herself. It is so realistic to how women have to “deal” with the fragile male ego in a patriarchal society.
“I should’ve known better.” “No. He should’ve been better.”
“He brought me to hot fucking yoga. We’re in a room that feels like the inside of Satan’s armpit, doing poses invented by people who clearly had vendettas against the human spine.”
I loved that the author called out what a strong FMC, like Madison, hears or has heard in the past and how she tried to mask herself. It is so realistic to how women have to “deal” with the fragile male ego in a patriarchal society.
“I should’ve known better.” “No. He should’ve been better.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2026
Couldn’t put it down, loved everything about Madison’s & Beckett story. This book had me all in my feelings.
My respect to the author for representing a character with bipolar disorder and how she is able to bring disability awareness!!!
I cannot wait for second book to come out.
A totally relatable quote:
"Mothers hate me. I'm too loud, I'm too blunt, and I have no domestic skills. I'm a mother's worst nightmare.”
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed here are solely my own.
My respect to the author for representing a character with bipolar disorder and how she is able to bring disability awareness!!!
I cannot wait for second book to come out.
A totally relatable quote:
"Mothers hate me. I'm too loud, I'm too blunt, and I have no domestic skills. I'm a mother's worst nightmare.”
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed here are solely my own.
July 13, 2026
4.25⭐️
This honestly was just a really solid romance.
It had the perfect balance of humor and emotion.
The banter was great, the chemistry was there, there was character growth and no 3rd act breakup (high five).
But the pacing was a bit on the slower side and it gets a little repetitive halfway through.
This honestly was just a really solid romance.
It had the perfect balance of humor and emotion.
The banter was great, the chemistry was there, there was character growth and no 3rd act breakup (high five).
But the pacing was a bit on the slower side and it gets a little repetitive halfway through.
March 15, 2026
Received this book as an ARC and I can truly say that it was so good, and only took me a day to read. I do not typically read pure romance books, but this one had me hooked and not wanting to put it down. It made me laugh, and it made me cry. There were so many relatable moments, especially for those that may struggle with mental health. I 100% would recommend d that you ready this book.
March 21, 2026
This ARC was one of the meant I have been doing lately and this one fit me so perfectly. The FMC was so much like me in way I didn’t think it would have ever believe. And the MMC is nearly so close to my own partner in ways. I could not put this down I wish I had more hours in a day with my own work that I’d had it done soon then in 10days..
June 1, 2026
definitely had its funny moments, but not my fav i’ve read this year.
June 20, 2026
This had surprising depth and decent character development, considering the fluffy looking front cover.
Perhaps a little too heavy for what I’m looking for with this type of book.
Perhaps a little too heavy for what I’m looking for with this type of book.
July 7, 2026
Loved. Great meet cute. I enjoy when the forced proximity is from being neighbors
July 14, 2026
3.5 stars was a really good book honestly a quick read
June 15, 2026
This gets 5 stars purely thanks to the humour, Beckett and the fact Madi never wanted children (and never changed her mind) and made me feel seen for not wanting children either 🥹
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2026
i adore a cute quick little romance story with a strong fmc!
May 5, 2026
Well written and cute rom-com. Nice pallet cleanser between fantasy reads.
July 17, 2026
Super cute. Eldest daughter holding everything together with family and at work meets hot yet annoying doctor who seems to understand that.
August 12, 2026
This was my first book I've read by Laura Ashley Gallagher, and oh my gosh it was so cute!
I did not expect such great banter and such lovable, believable characters.
Beckett and Madison aren't quite enemies to lovers, but their relationship does start as a reluctant/annoying friendship and transitions slowly into a romance.
I love the depth of each of these characters and the way that they process their own issues and trauma while still being there for each other.
It's a great, quick read!
I did not expect such great banter and such lovable, believable characters.
Beckett and Madison aren't quite enemies to lovers, but their relationship does start as a reluctant/annoying friendship and transitions slowly into a romance.
I love the depth of each of these characters and the way that they process their own issues and trauma while still being there for each other.
It's a great, quick read!
May 24, 2026
cute, funny and heart-warming
April 12, 2026
Cute, easy read
June 22, 2026
well written and cliche. men written well. fun-nay. basic. fast read if you power through all the needlessly tedious parts.
May 8, 2026
Absoluut hilarische prologue en humor volgt doorheen het verhaal
bad ass business woman in crisis PR and trauma doctor
she always has to be the strong one and he lets her be soft
she has a bipolar mom and he has a dead father so a bit trauma filled as well
tension filled (some spicy scenes)
"enemeis" to lovers
no kids, enkel een hond want hun leven is vol genoeg
Quotes
I don’t have the energy to care.
My spine is gone.
My dignity is gone.
My date is gone.
Everything is gone.
I’m almost thirty.
I’m hot yoga-injured.
I might have farted.
“On the third knock, I finally caught the culprit. I had her. Then the kids came screaming around the corner with Silly String.” I pinch the bridge of my nose. “I think I still have blue residue in my ear.”
I should wait. I should let her have a thirty-second head start. Instead, I follow. The choice no longer feels like a choice, which is how I know I’m in trouble.
“You autofilled a vibrating rose to your hot neighbor?” Piper arches a brow.
“Put it on your headstone,” Piper adds. “She came. She saw. She sent it to the wrong address.”
Noah grins. “RIP Madison Rose.”
I’m going to kill them.
“You’re very bossy.”
“You’re very injured,” he counters.
I finish the last few bites at the counter while she’s still eating on the couch. I rinse my plate, wash hers when she’s done, and dry both without thinking about how easily the earlier awkwardness fell away.
She wipes her face and offers a small, genuine smile. “We need to stop doing this, Doc. I’m making a habit of crying in front of you.”
“I don’t mind that you keep your thoughts in one place, but could you do it quietly?”
“Can’t do that.”
She frowns. “Why not?”
“Because I enjoy arguing with you far too much to stop now.”
A faint blush creeps across her cheeks, and her lips spread into a real, devastating smile.
I’m lonely.
It was a terrible joke, but he’s breaking the ice. He’s reaching through the floorboards to tell me it’s okay that I fell apart.
A genuine smile tugs at my mouth as I type back.
I stare at the last message until the screen dims. He isn’t asking for an explanation. He isn’t demanding a deep-dive into my trauma or an itemized list of why I was crying.
He’s just there.
“Fine.” She steps back, swinging the door wider. I expect her to take the goods and shut me out, but she lingers. “Well? You don’t expect me to have breakfast alone, do you? Your sparkling personality can keep me company while I decide if I forgive you.”
I’ve spent weeks thinking she’s just a shark who likes to win. I didn’t realize she’s a shark who hunts monsters.
That’s it. That’s the end of my restraint. My hand wraps around her throat just before her eyes go dark, and I crash my mouth into hers. The kiss is messy—full of teeth and tongues and fuck-you energy.
“Madison,” I rasp. “This is a bad idea.”
“It’s a terrible idea,” she pants. “Don’t you dare stop.”
Well, fuck me.
I blow gently against her and watch her flinch.
“Don’t play with me,” she pants.
I glance up her body, hands gripping her thighs. “You started this the second you pressed that toy to your pussy, knowing I could hear.”
Her eyes narrow. “And you showed up with a hard-on, so don’t pretend you didn’t want this.”
Challenge accepted.
His thumb strokes my cheek, and his mouth finds my shoulder, leaving soft, lingering kisses instead of the bites I expected.
It’s the contradiction that’s killing me. Rough, but not detached. Hard, but completely present.
He isn’t just taking.
He’s right here with me.
“Okay,” he manages. “So much better than a run.”
There’s a beat of silence, then we both break and start laughing.
∞∞∞
I wake to the gentlest touch of fingers brushing hair from my face.
I’m making excuses for him before he even realizes he needs them, my mouth running on autopilot because if I make it casual, it won’t hurt when it ends.
Beckett doesn’t let me get away with it. He grabs my chin and turns my face back toward him.
“I should get off at eight,” he says. “If I get held up, I’ll tell you. If I don’t, I’ll see you later.”
I straighten my blazer, trying to find my spine. Part of the panic is the location. He’s seen us leave this department, and I’m not ready to unpack that box with him yet. With Beckett, I get to be the girl with the loud music and the sharp tongue. I get to be fun. I don’t have to be the person with the heavy shoulders.
I told her I’d be here, so dammit, I’m here.
When she looks at me, I can almost see the armor sliding into place. She’s already building the wall, brick by brick, preparing to tell me that last night was a fluke or a glitch in the matrix.
Oh no. You’re not disappearing on me now.
I know this: Whatever shape my life takes, I don’t want it dictated by expectations.
And if that shape includes her arguing with me over dog names at midnight?
I think I could live with that.
“So,” she mumbles into my shirt, “I haven’t scared you off yet?”
“Oh, you scare the life out of me,” I say, resting my chin on the top of her head.
But the best part? Talking to him is easy.
“We take turns.” I pause, looking at him. “You’re remarkably calm for a man who just caught a woman snooping in his closet.”
“I’ve dealt with worse traumas.” He reaches out, his thumb tracing the line of my jaw. “Besides, if you’re looking for a reason to run, I’m not going to give you one.”
I scrub at my cheek and realize there’s a tear there.
Traitor.
I let out a laugh that sounds nothing like me. “He makes me feel…” I shake my head once, incredulous. “He makes me feel soft.” I whisper it, as if saying it too loudly might make it true.
You want a fight, baby? Bring it on.
I lean back, crossing my arms. “Bullshit.”
She freezes, her eyes widening. “What?”
“Then what do you want?” she screams. “Why are you still standing in my kitchen?”
“Because I love you, damn it! Why does it have to be a fight for me to love you?”
“You’re so annoying,” she sobs into my chest.
“I know,” I murmur, kissing the top of her head. “But I’m your annoying. Get used to it.”
“What are we having?” my mother asks.
Madison leans closer. “Honestly? I have no idea. I can’t cook to save my life. I’m here for moral support and wine.”
Our house has laughter. It has tiny sneakers by the door some weekends and silence on others. It has a dog with a human name and a husband who loves me loudly.
bad ass business woman in crisis PR and trauma doctor
she always has to be the strong one and he lets her be soft
she has a bipolar mom and he has a dead father so a bit trauma filled as well
tension filled (some spicy scenes)
"enemeis" to lovers
no kids, enkel een hond want hun leven is vol genoeg
Quotes
I don’t have the energy to care.
My spine is gone.
My dignity is gone.
My date is gone.
Everything is gone.
I’m almost thirty.
I’m hot yoga-injured.
I might have farted.
“On the third knock, I finally caught the culprit. I had her. Then the kids came screaming around the corner with Silly String.” I pinch the bridge of my nose. “I think I still have blue residue in my ear.”
I should wait. I should let her have a thirty-second head start. Instead, I follow. The choice no longer feels like a choice, which is how I know I’m in trouble.
“You autofilled a vibrating rose to your hot neighbor?” Piper arches a brow.
“Put it on your headstone,” Piper adds. “She came. She saw. She sent it to the wrong address.”
Noah grins. “RIP Madison Rose.”
I’m going to kill them.
“You’re very bossy.”
“You’re very injured,” he counters.
I finish the last few bites at the counter while she’s still eating on the couch. I rinse my plate, wash hers when she’s done, and dry both without thinking about how easily the earlier awkwardness fell away.
She wipes her face and offers a small, genuine smile. “We need to stop doing this, Doc. I’m making a habit of crying in front of you.”
“I don’t mind that you keep your thoughts in one place, but could you do it quietly?”
“Can’t do that.”
She frowns. “Why not?”
“Because I enjoy arguing with you far too much to stop now.”
A faint blush creeps across her cheeks, and her lips spread into a real, devastating smile.
I’m lonely.
It was a terrible joke, but he’s breaking the ice. He’s reaching through the floorboards to tell me it’s okay that I fell apart.
A genuine smile tugs at my mouth as I type back.
I stare at the last message until the screen dims. He isn’t asking for an explanation. He isn’t demanding a deep-dive into my trauma or an itemized list of why I was crying.
He’s just there.
“Fine.” She steps back, swinging the door wider. I expect her to take the goods and shut me out, but she lingers. “Well? You don’t expect me to have breakfast alone, do you? Your sparkling personality can keep me company while I decide if I forgive you.”
I’ve spent weeks thinking she’s just a shark who likes to win. I didn’t realize she’s a shark who hunts monsters.
That’s it. That’s the end of my restraint. My hand wraps around her throat just before her eyes go dark, and I crash my mouth into hers. The kiss is messy—full of teeth and tongues and fuck-you energy.
“Madison,” I rasp. “This is a bad idea.”
“It’s a terrible idea,” she pants. “Don’t you dare stop.”
Well, fuck me.
I blow gently against her and watch her flinch.
“Don’t play with me,” she pants.
I glance up her body, hands gripping her thighs. “You started this the second you pressed that toy to your pussy, knowing I could hear.”
Her eyes narrow. “And you showed up with a hard-on, so don’t pretend you didn’t want this.”
Challenge accepted.
His thumb strokes my cheek, and his mouth finds my shoulder, leaving soft, lingering kisses instead of the bites I expected.
It’s the contradiction that’s killing me. Rough, but not detached. Hard, but completely present.
He isn’t just taking.
He’s right here with me.
“Okay,” he manages. “So much better than a run.”
There’s a beat of silence, then we both break and start laughing.
∞∞∞
I wake to the gentlest touch of fingers brushing hair from my face.
I’m making excuses for him before he even realizes he needs them, my mouth running on autopilot because if I make it casual, it won’t hurt when it ends.
Beckett doesn’t let me get away with it. He grabs my chin and turns my face back toward him.
“I should get off at eight,” he says. “If I get held up, I’ll tell you. If I don’t, I’ll see you later.”
I straighten my blazer, trying to find my spine. Part of the panic is the location. He’s seen us leave this department, and I’m not ready to unpack that box with him yet. With Beckett, I get to be the girl with the loud music and the sharp tongue. I get to be fun. I don’t have to be the person with the heavy shoulders.
I told her I’d be here, so dammit, I’m here.
When she looks at me, I can almost see the armor sliding into place. She’s already building the wall, brick by brick, preparing to tell me that last night was a fluke or a glitch in the matrix.
Oh no. You’re not disappearing on me now.
I know this: Whatever shape my life takes, I don’t want it dictated by expectations.
And if that shape includes her arguing with me over dog names at midnight?
I think I could live with that.
“So,” she mumbles into my shirt, “I haven’t scared you off yet?”
“Oh, you scare the life out of me,” I say, resting my chin on the top of her head.
But the best part? Talking to him is easy.
“We take turns.” I pause, looking at him. “You’re remarkably calm for a man who just caught a woman snooping in his closet.”
“I’ve dealt with worse traumas.” He reaches out, his thumb tracing the line of my jaw. “Besides, if you’re looking for a reason to run, I’m not going to give you one.”
I scrub at my cheek and realize there’s a tear there.
Traitor.
I let out a laugh that sounds nothing like me. “He makes me feel…” I shake my head once, incredulous. “He makes me feel soft.” I whisper it, as if saying it too loudly might make it true.
You want a fight, baby? Bring it on.
I lean back, crossing my arms. “Bullshit.”
She freezes, her eyes widening. “What?”
“Then what do you want?” she screams. “Why are you still standing in my kitchen?”
“Because I love you, damn it! Why does it have to be a fight for me to love you?”
“You’re so annoying,” she sobs into my chest.
“I know,” I murmur, kissing the top of her head. “But I’m your annoying. Get used to it.”
“What are we having?” my mother asks.
Madison leans closer. “Honestly? I have no idea. I can’t cook to save my life. I’m here for moral support and wine.”
Our house has laughter. It has tiny sneakers by the door some weekends and silence on others. It has a dog with a human name and a husband who loves me loudly.
May 13, 2026
FULL REVIEW!! 🤍
This book was so good. I read it all in one sitting, finished it within 5 hours. I couldn’t put it down!
I can’t find a single thing I didn’t like about this book.
The chemistry? Scrumptious
The tension? Chef’s kiss
The trope? Beautiful
..and so on!
I laughed so much throughout the whole book. It was funny without trying hard…like it wasn’t forced. The little jokes Beckett would send Madison? 🥹 so good.
Now..lemme tell you about the main characters!
Beckett;
Hot neighbor? Obvious yum.
Hot DOCTOR? …yes please!
I absolutely adored him. I loved how patient he was with Madison. Throughout the whole book, it was always her pace. And when Madison started pushing him away, he did not let her go.
He’s such a golden retriever! Made my heart melt every time. ..and in the bedroom…🫣😏definitely not a golden retriever lol.
I loved how he never treated Madison like she was fragile. He knew what was going on, but never treated her differently.
He was there when she needed a shoulder to cry on.
He was there when she needed a drink at noon.
He was there for every bad day.
He was there to help take care of Madison’s mom.
And most importantly, he was there for the moments Madison didn’t want him to see. Every wall she had put up, he showed her that it was safe to let go.
and THAT’S a man.
Madison;
she does not take no for an answer. She’s always been the person everyone would run to for help. Seems the person you go to when you need some support..and some tough love. She’s always had so much on her plate. She started taking care of her mother when she was 19, protected her younger siblings from it, became a PR goddess..who does NOT fuck with liars.
I grew to love her quickly. As someone who had to grow up fast (not for the same reason)..it’s nice to read Madison getting taken care of.
It took her a long time to let Beckett in, which is understandable. When your brain is constantly running, it’s hard to let people in to see the (weirdly organized) mess in your brain. I felt a lot in her!
Together, both characters balance each other out so perfectly.
As a girly who doesn’t want kids, I loved how Beckett let Madison know that it is her choice. He loved her no matter what the decision was.
He didn’t want kids because of his job, which is understandable and not selfish. And he was so right when he said that kids deserve parents who aren’t job focused (if I’m not mistaken!) and Madison didn’t want kids because she wanted to be an aunt. Her life was already filled with so much love from her nieces and nephews. She loves kids but didn’t want any for herself. And i remember that exactly because that’s the reason why I don’t.
With Beckett, she could finally feel seen, feel heard, and feel like she doesn’t have to carry everything anymore. She can finally get that weight lifted off her shoulders. She understood that she didn’t have to do life alone anymore.
Gosh..they just make sense together. I seriously loved this book. I can’t wait to read it again!
This book was so good. I read it all in one sitting, finished it within 5 hours. I couldn’t put it down!
I can’t find a single thing I didn’t like about this book.
The chemistry? Scrumptious
The tension? Chef’s kiss
The trope? Beautiful
..and so on!
I laughed so much throughout the whole book. It was funny without trying hard…like it wasn’t forced. The little jokes Beckett would send Madison? 🥹 so good.
Now..lemme tell you about the main characters!
Beckett;
Hot neighbor? Obvious yum.
Hot DOCTOR? …yes please!
I absolutely adored him. I loved how patient he was with Madison. Throughout the whole book, it was always her pace. And when Madison started pushing him away, he did not let her go.
He’s such a golden retriever! Made my heart melt every time. ..and in the bedroom…🫣😏definitely not a golden retriever lol.
I loved how he never treated Madison like she was fragile. He knew what was going on, but never treated her differently.
He was there when she needed a shoulder to cry on.
He was there when she needed a drink at noon.
He was there for every bad day.
He was there to help take care of Madison’s mom.
And most importantly, he was there for the moments Madison didn’t want him to see. Every wall she had put up, he showed her that it was safe to let go.
and THAT’S a man.
Madison;
she does not take no for an answer. She’s always been the person everyone would run to for help. Seems the person you go to when you need some support..and some tough love. She’s always had so much on her plate. She started taking care of her mother when she was 19, protected her younger siblings from it, became a PR goddess..who does NOT fuck with liars.
I grew to love her quickly. As someone who had to grow up fast (not for the same reason)..it’s nice to read Madison getting taken care of.
It took her a long time to let Beckett in, which is understandable. When your brain is constantly running, it’s hard to let people in to see the (weirdly organized) mess in your brain. I felt a lot in her!
Together, both characters balance each other out so perfectly.
As a girly who doesn’t want kids, I loved how Beckett let Madison know that it is her choice. He loved her no matter what the decision was.
He didn’t want kids because of his job, which is understandable and not selfish. And he was so right when he said that kids deserve parents who aren’t job focused (if I’m not mistaken!) and Madison didn’t want kids because she wanted to be an aunt. Her life was already filled with so much love from her nieces and nephews. She loves kids but didn’t want any for herself. And i remember that exactly because that’s the reason why I don’t.
With Beckett, she could finally feel seen, feel heard, and feel like she doesn’t have to carry everything anymore. She can finally get that weight lifted off her shoulders. She understood that she didn’t have to do life alone anymore.
Gosh..they just make sense together. I seriously loved this book. I can’t wait to read it again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2026
Madison is used to fixing problems. As a crisis manager she puts out fires and can deescalate a situation in a manner of minutes but can't seem to manage her own complications and struggles. When she meets Ben, literally on her back, she certainly can’t seem to contain the annoyance, or is it tension, between the two of them. She may try to have everything lined up, but as the two of them navigate this frenemy situation, they learn some of the best things are not planned.
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Ok stop. How have I not read this author before? I absolutely loved this story! The writing was just my style - the humour really sucked you in, and then so much emotional depth and trauma is added which balances everything so perfectly.
It's been over a week since release day and I am still thinking about that Meet-cute here, amazing! Once the characters have a second meet, we feel the undeniable tension and pull between them. Plus the banter! I am telling you, the humour is just spot on. When we hit the spice you will not be disappointed. The chemistry is addictive and when they collide - wow - Ben yes please in every way. Plus the way she lures Ben is absolutely phenomenal.
FMC is strong and independent with an attitude that just screams boss lady. She is relatable and tries to carry far too much on her shoulders as so many of us do.
The mental health awareness is strong but done so flawlessly it just lifts the story to a whole other level. The representation was honest and compassionate, making you feel the pain for the characters and wanting to reach out and hug them. I truly enjoyed every moment of reading this book!
Absolutely recommend it if you need a laugh out loud romance, with strong character growth, emotional depth, and something to enjoy the whole way through.Thank you so so much to the Author, Laura Ashley Gallagher, for this amazing story and introduction to your books. I seriously cannot wait for more!
ENEMIES TO LOVERS | NEIGHBORS | CLOSE PROXIMITY | SELF LOVE | MENTAL HEALTH | SLOW BURN | ROMANCE WITH HUMOUR | ROMANCE READS | EMOTIONAL DAMAGE | ROM COM | SLUTTY GLASSES | DUAL POV | ARC READER | AVAILABLE NOW
Visit my Bookstagram for photos and more reviews!
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Ok stop. How have I not read this author before? I absolutely loved this story! The writing was just my style - the humour really sucked you in, and then so much emotional depth and trauma is added which balances everything so perfectly.
It's been over a week since release day and I am still thinking about that Meet-cute here, amazing! Once the characters have a second meet, we feel the undeniable tension and pull between them. Plus the banter! I am telling you, the humour is just spot on. When we hit the spice you will not be disappointed. The chemistry is addictive and when they collide - wow - Ben yes please in every way. Plus the way she lures Ben is absolutely phenomenal.
“I don’t want a mold, Madison. I want you. I want the sarcasm and the noise, and the way you look in those stupid slippers”.
FMC is strong and independent with an attitude that just screams boss lady. She is relatable and tries to carry far too much on her shoulders as so many of us do.
“It’s the plight of a woman. We’re trained to carry other people’s shame like it belongs to us”.
The mental health awareness is strong but done so flawlessly it just lifts the story to a whole other level. The representation was honest and compassionate, making you feel the pain for the characters and wanting to reach out and hug them. I truly enjoyed every moment of reading this book!
Absolutely recommend it if you need a laugh out loud romance, with strong character growth, emotional depth, and something to enjoy the whole way through.Thank you so so much to the Author, Laura Ashley Gallagher, for this amazing story and introduction to your books. I seriously cannot wait for more!
ENEMIES TO LOVERS | NEIGHBORS | CLOSE PROXIMITY | SELF LOVE | MENTAL HEALTH | SLOW BURN | ROMANCE WITH HUMOUR | ROMANCE READS | EMOTIONAL DAMAGE | ROM COM | SLUTTY GLASSES | DUAL POV | ARC READER | AVAILABLE NOW
Visit my Bookstagram for photos and more reviews!
April 30, 2026
When I first started this book I had to put it down and away….
Madi’s job is to douse negative publicity to those that are high in power. She puts out the fire. And Madi is very good at her job. A little too good.
Beckett is a Trauma doctor that lives above Madi’s apartment. The whole building is pretty much soundproof EXECPT for Madi’s. When she moved into the building, Roger, the 90 something year old was quiet like a mouse. When Roger left, Beckett moved in. He thudded! (He enjoys running in early morning hours on his treadmill) Madi had enough, went upstairs, knocked on the door reallllllyyyy pissed.
They both have their inner stories. The character building was done really nicely. Because of Madi’s family dynamics and her career, she became a master at not letting others see weakness. Beckett hasn’t come to terms with his father’s death. (When he was 19 he was in a car accident with his dad and he wasn’t able to be saved) which is why he became a doctor.
Madi has siblings where Beckett is an only child. Madi’s mom suffers from BioPolar 1. In the beginning of the story you are introduced to her mom’s struggles but it doesn’t get labeled until later on in the book. I was not expecting the diagnosis. Immediately I started to cry. The detail of manic and depressive episodes that her mom suffers from was so realistic. The toughness of Madi and the way she takes full control reminded me so much of myself. I started crying. Reading how Beckett and Madi slowly realize how they love one another made me cry. How he didn’t run. Madi showed him parts of her that she keeps hidden but he stayed. Beckett gives her space but remains. Madi deserved her happiness. She deserved to be her true loud, successful self and Beckett gave her that. 🥺🥺🥺🥺 I read this as an e-arc and I never booked marked an e-arc as much as I did this book. The reason why I needed to take a pause from reading it is because of how contented I was to the story. It is wild to see in black and white a character that is so similar to yourself.
Madi and Beckett will forever remain in my heart. I absolutely will be reading book two. It is about Madi’s sister and her story. I have a feeling there will be tears in this book too.
Madi’s job is to douse negative publicity to those that are high in power. She puts out the fire. And Madi is very good at her job. A little too good.
Beckett is a Trauma doctor that lives above Madi’s apartment. The whole building is pretty much soundproof EXECPT for Madi’s. When she moved into the building, Roger, the 90 something year old was quiet like a mouse. When Roger left, Beckett moved in. He thudded! (He enjoys running in early morning hours on his treadmill) Madi had enough, went upstairs, knocked on the door reallllllyyyy pissed.
They both have their inner stories. The character building was done really nicely. Because of Madi’s family dynamics and her career, she became a master at not letting others see weakness. Beckett hasn’t come to terms with his father’s death. (When he was 19 he was in a car accident with his dad and he wasn’t able to be saved) which is why he became a doctor.
Madi has siblings where Beckett is an only child. Madi’s mom suffers from BioPolar 1. In the beginning of the story you are introduced to her mom’s struggles but it doesn’t get labeled until later on in the book. I was not expecting the diagnosis. Immediately I started to cry. The detail of manic and depressive episodes that her mom suffers from was so realistic. The toughness of Madi and the way she takes full control reminded me so much of myself. I started crying. Reading how Beckett and Madi slowly realize how they love one another made me cry. How he didn’t run. Madi showed him parts of her that she keeps hidden but he stayed. Beckett gives her space but remains. Madi deserved her happiness. She deserved to be her true loud, successful self and Beckett gave her that. 🥺🥺🥺🥺 I read this as an e-arc and I never booked marked an e-arc as much as I did this book. The reason why I needed to take a pause from reading it is because of how contented I was to the story. It is wild to see in black and white a character that is so similar to yourself.
Madi and Beckett will forever remain in my heart. I absolutely will be reading book two. It is about Madi’s sister and her story. I have a feeling there will be tears in this book too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The PR Queen and the Doctor Upstairs
I am officially a mess after finishing my first ARC read! This Wasn’t the Plan is a phenomenal 5-star debut that gave me everything I want in a romance: elite banter, deep emotional stakes, and a hero who is absolute perfection.
Why it Works:
• Madi and Beckett: The chemistry between Madison (Madi), our PR queen, and Beckett, the hot doctor upstairs, is magnetic. Their enemies-to-lovers journey started with "the good meds" and some iconic rambling, and it only got better from there.
• The Banter: I was literally loling! Between the inappropriate deliveries, yelling through the ceiling, and the legendary "Dr. Thuddy," their back-and-forth was top-tier. And yes, the grey sweatpants definitely deserve an honorable mention.
• The Emotional Core: Beneath the humor, this book is so raw. Madi’s struggle as the primary caregiver for her mother with Bipolar disorder was portrayed so authentically. It broke me when she finally called Beckett during a manic episode, and seeing how he stepped up for Donna showed exactly who he is deep down.
• Healing Together: Beckett’s own trauma regarding the accident that caused his father’s death was handled with so much care. When he finally opened up to Madi, it was a total "shatter my heart" moment.
This was a perfect read. It balances the "plight of a woman" carrying everyone's shame with the absolute hilarity of a giant "rose" being delivered as a prank. The 10 years later epilogue was the perfect finale piece; I was bawling happy tears by the end!
Iconic Quotes to Share:
• "Mom, he’s in the bad-boy spatula phase of the relationship. I think we’ve crossed the serious threshold and entered the traumatizing-for-the-offspring territory."
• "We’re trained to carry other people’s shame like it belongs to us."
• "I know this isn’t about winning Madison. It’s about standing still long enough that she realizes I’m not moving."
Whether they are yelling through the ceiling or standing still for one another, Madi and Beckett are proof that sometimes the best things in life are the ones we never planned for. Thank you Laura Ashley for this phenomenal read!
I am officially a mess after finishing my first ARC read! This Wasn’t the Plan is a phenomenal 5-star debut that gave me everything I want in a romance: elite banter, deep emotional stakes, and a hero who is absolute perfection.
Why it Works:
• Madi and Beckett: The chemistry between Madison (Madi), our PR queen, and Beckett, the hot doctor upstairs, is magnetic. Their enemies-to-lovers journey started with "the good meds" and some iconic rambling, and it only got better from there.
• The Banter: I was literally loling! Between the inappropriate deliveries, yelling through the ceiling, and the legendary "Dr. Thuddy," their back-and-forth was top-tier. And yes, the grey sweatpants definitely deserve an honorable mention.
• The Emotional Core: Beneath the humor, this book is so raw. Madi’s struggle as the primary caregiver for her mother with Bipolar disorder was portrayed so authentically. It broke me when she finally called Beckett during a manic episode, and seeing how he stepped up for Donna showed exactly who he is deep down.
• Healing Together: Beckett’s own trauma regarding the accident that caused his father’s death was handled with so much care. When he finally opened up to Madi, it was a total "shatter my heart" moment.
This was a perfect read. It balances the "plight of a woman" carrying everyone's shame with the absolute hilarity of a giant "rose" being delivered as a prank. The 10 years later epilogue was the perfect finale piece; I was bawling happy tears by the end!
Iconic Quotes to Share:
• "Mom, he’s in the bad-boy spatula phase of the relationship. I think we’ve crossed the serious threshold and entered the traumatizing-for-the-offspring territory."
• "We’re trained to carry other people’s shame like it belongs to us."
• "I know this isn’t about winning Madison. It’s about standing still long enough that she realizes I’m not moving."
Whether they are yelling through the ceiling or standing still for one another, Madi and Beckett are proof that sometimes the best things in life are the ones we never planned for. Thank you Laura Ashley for this phenomenal read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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