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Next Time
Payton Foret agrees to play wingwoman for her best friend. She never dreamed that when she walked into the bar that night that she’d meet her soul mate. Though their only physical contact was a simple handshake, Payton begins to believe in love at first sight. There’s only one problem—the woman of her dreams is already in a relationship with someone else.
Ryan Seely is at a crossroads, unsure of what path to take. She’s not eager to throw away an eight-year relationship, despite the fact that she’s already taken back part of her heart. Decisions become more convoluted the next time she sees Payton.
Ryan Seely is at a crossroads, unsure of what path to take. She’s not eager to throw away an eight-year relationship, despite the fact that she’s already taken back part of her heart. Decisions become more convoluted the next time she sees Payton.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2015
49 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Robin Alexander
51 books814 followersBorn in 1965, Robin Alexander grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where she still resides. An avid reader of Lesbian fiction, Robin decided to take the leap and try her hand at writing. It didn't take long for her favorite hobby to become a full-time author.
Since her heritage is Scottish and Irish and she’s allergic to seafood, she’s considered an honorary Cajun. When she’s not writing, she’s exploring her state with the top off her Jeep in search of the small towns on the water that inspire her.
Robin is awkward, sometimes shy, loaded with anxieties, accident prone, dangerous with power tools, and has been known to make idiotic decisions. She has been fortunate enough to turn her shortcomings into the hilarious characters you’ll find in her novels and short stories. Her passion is writing funny tales about falling in love, being imperfect and reveling in friendship.
Robin is convinced she has the best job in the world, and she’s extremely grateful for her fans who support her and enable her to do what she loves.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Since her heritage is Scottish and Irish and she’s allergic to seafood, she’s considered an honorary Cajun. When she’s not writing, she’s exploring her state with the top off her Jeep in search of the small towns on the water that inspire her.
Robin is awkward, sometimes shy, loaded with anxieties, accident prone, dangerous with power tools, and has been known to make idiotic decisions. She has been fortunate enough to turn her shortcomings into the hilarious characters you’ll find in her novels and short stories. Her passion is writing funny tales about falling in love, being imperfect and reveling in friendship.
Robin is convinced she has the best job in the world, and she’s extremely grateful for her fans who support her and enable her to do what she loves.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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March 27, 2021
Review of Next Time by Robin Alexander, Audiobook narrated by Lori Prince
I’m happy to see that Robin Alexander is releasing her back catalogue in audio and even happier that she has chosen Lori Prince as the narrator. I’ve read this book years ago and even though it’s not one of my favourites, it’s worth a listen.

Payton Foret meets Ryan Seely when both of them were acting as wing women for their best friends on their first date. She’s instantly captivated with her but Ryan is in a long-term relationship. Ryan hasn’t been happy with her love life for a while and throwing away her eight-year-old relationship seems too drastic. But life suddenly gets too complicated; what will happen when Payton and Ryan cross paths next time?
I like the premise of this book because it’s unusual for lesfic but so much more common in real life: a relationship in trouble makes space for a new bond with someone else. My guess is that it’s unusual in romance because it’s hard to pull off without risking the readers’ sympathy for the situation.
The beginning reminded me of the movie When Harry Met Sally, Payton and Ryan are already in an established relationship and tell their story to an interviewer. So, with the certainty of a happy ending, the reader is ready to discover their journey to happiness.
This wouldn’t be a Robin Alexander book without her typical quirky characters, such as Ryan’s sister Shelley, funny old ladies, like Payton’s neighbour Grace, and hilarious situations. Without that healthy dose of humour, this book would have had the potential to be overly dramatic but, as usual, Ms. Alexander finds a perfect balance between serious and fun.
Lori Prince is the perfect choice for this story because her comedy timing is one of the best in lesfic. But, as the author does, she also finds a perfect balance between fun and emotional and makes the story much more enjoyable. Her performance of Shelley and Grace is fantastic and super entertaining and she’s also convincing in the more emotional parts. I’ll always give a chance to an audiobook that has the names Alexander and Prince on the cover. 4.5 stars.
Available in Scribd
Length: 6 hrs and 48 mins
I’m happy to see that Robin Alexander is releasing her back catalogue in audio and even happier that she has chosen Lori Prince as the narrator. I’ve read this book years ago and even though it’s not one of my favourites, it’s worth a listen.

Payton Foret meets Ryan Seely when both of them were acting as wing women for their best friends on their first date. She’s instantly captivated with her but Ryan is in a long-term relationship. Ryan hasn’t been happy with her love life for a while and throwing away her eight-year-old relationship seems too drastic. But life suddenly gets too complicated; what will happen when Payton and Ryan cross paths next time?
I like the premise of this book because it’s unusual for lesfic but so much more common in real life: a relationship in trouble makes space for a new bond with someone else. My guess is that it’s unusual in romance because it’s hard to pull off without risking the readers’ sympathy for the situation.
The beginning reminded me of the movie When Harry Met Sally, Payton and Ryan are already in an established relationship and tell their story to an interviewer. So, with the certainty of a happy ending, the reader is ready to discover their journey to happiness.
This wouldn’t be a Robin Alexander book without her typical quirky characters, such as Ryan’s sister Shelley, funny old ladies, like Payton’s neighbour Grace, and hilarious situations. Without that healthy dose of humour, this book would have had the potential to be overly dramatic but, as usual, Ms. Alexander finds a perfect balance between serious and fun.
Lori Prince is the perfect choice for this story because her comedy timing is one of the best in lesfic. But, as the author does, she also finds a perfect balance between fun and emotional and makes the story much more enjoyable. Her performance of Shelley and Grace is fantastic and super entertaining and she’s also convincing in the more emotional parts. I’ll always give a chance to an audiobook that has the names Alexander and Prince on the cover. 4.5 stars.
Available in Scribd
Length: 6 hrs and 48 mins
December 18, 2017
Humor is tricky to pull off well for many reasons – chief among them the relatively simple fact that there’s no form of humor that appeals to everyone (and I mean 100% of all people), and the more you drive to reach a large significant portion of the audience, the more likely the humor will end up being super mild and would likely, at best, generate just a weak smile. Not only is it super easy to offend with humor, it is, in some ways even worse, very easy to bore with humor.
And here I thought of putting in a bunch of stuff about different types of humor, like: satire/parody, broad humor, low humor, high humor, word play humor, domestic humor, etc. etc. And mention how one of the types of humor I like best is the kind somewhat rarely actually seen, at least by me, in prose novels – the quick-witted sharp dialogue that seems more easily shown, in example form, in plays by Noël Coward (who, largely, seemed to like the comedy of manners type of humor (at least his popular early work) – married couples (Private Lives, Blythe Spirit), families (Hay Fever), etc. I rarely see it in prose novels as, as noted, it tended to involve married couples, not something that’s hugely popular, it appears, with what I personally read. But all of this is beside the point: the point being that humor is difficult to do well, and even when it is done well – 50% of your intended audience might still be bored (at best), or disgusted (at worst).
I specifically mentioned Coward above so I’d mention married couples – so I’d note that this book here involves a married couple. In snippets, at least, in the ‘present’. They, Payton Foret & Ryann Seely, technically aren’t married since, at the time this book was published and set, lesbian marriage was not yet legal in Louisiana, but the two are a long term couple who see themselves, basically, as married. But that’s the ‘present’. And most of the story consists of what happened in the past, when Payton & Ryann first meet, entangled with others, and then finally come together in coupledom. So it’s a variation that both allows the reader to see a ‘married’ couple long after they got together, and see what is normally shown in romance books – a couple coming together.
Payton and Ryann first meet in a bar – as ‘wingwomen’ for Jana and … um, I’m going to say Melena, but could be Melissa, or Melina, or . . . well, doesn’t really matter. Jana and Payton are best friends, while Ryann and M are friends – though, as is both seen throughout the book, and stated at the upfront – M would rather have had Ryann’s significant other there as the wingwoman, as Leigh is more of M’s friend. Leigh being Ryann’s long-term partner of roughly 8 years (several years go by in the telling of this story, and the number 8 got tossed out there at some point, not sure when the number was used, so I’m going with 8).
Payton and Ryann meet well – they have an instant spark, but they also have no obligation to like/dislike/or go through the ‘game’ of romancing – since they are there for their friends, not for themselves. Though Payton does mention that she might have made some kind of play for Ryann but for the fact that she knew that Ryann had a long term girlfriend.
The two meet again about … oh, several months later when M and J have a BBQ. By this point Ryann is still dating Leigh, and Payton is dating ‘squirrel-woman’ (a successful voice actor who specializes in ‘funny voices’ who doesn’t have good control over the ‘on/off’ switch). Squirrel-woman is in and out so quickly from Payton’s life that I didn’t really catch her name (but, then again, I couldn’t recall M’s name and she’s there throughout the book so . . . ). Payton and Ryann reconnect at this party and continue their liking of each other, and their witty banter. For reasons this is only the second time they both have meet, months after first meeting, largely due to how easily Leigh falls into jealous rages at the slightest opportunity, and how little Ryann does to fight this impulse of Leigh’s (beyond basically never going anywhere but for work and home – at least not without Leigh).
Payton and Ryann meet for the third time on J & M’s anniversary – Payton, by this point, is by herself, while Ryann is still with Leigh. Throughout all this time Ryann has made noises that indicate that she doesn’t really want to still be with Leigh, and is ‘just about’ to break up with her. For roughly a year or more. And so the two still don’t date, or cheat with each other, for neither are the cheating type and Ryann is still with Leigh.
Payton works as a ‘children’s educational music jingle writer’, or something like that. She writes children’s show/commercial/film songs. Ryann works as a teacher, I believe a high school teacher though I might have that part wrong.
Of importance: the woman whose name I can’t remember, Melena or whatever, is in the book throughout but mostly on the side as she’s the lover/girlfriend of Jana (not a main character) and more friends with Leigh (not a main character) than with Ryann (main character). Jana is best friends with Payton and therefore pops up whenever the book needed someone like her to pop up (you know, to say things like ‘I know you aren’t the cheating kind’ and stuff like that). Shelly is Ryann’s straight sister, and seems very much her close friend (mom Carol and the two named sisters, and two (or was it three?) unnamed brothers play little part in this story, at least until near the end when the sisters and Carol pops up – for reasons). Shelly’s kids and husband are there when needed for excuses for certain things – like why Shelly’s suddenly over at Ryann’s place (Evan, the husband, tried to burn down the house making food), or why there’s a ‘rat’ running around (Brody, Shelly’s son, got a ferret without asking permission) – but are not otherwise of any real importance to the plot.
Beyond everything else, like say romance and humor, there are two things Alexander likes including in her books: travel and ‘old people’. Here, in this specific book, the travel is covered by several impromptu car trips, while the ‘old person’ is covered by Grace, Payton’s next door neighbor of advanced age. The old people tend to be sources of amusement and be quite wacky, here, though, the wackiest thing about Grace is her weird food combinations.
This is the first book by Alexander that I have successfully reread. I’d previously attempted to listen to the audio for one prior book, without success, which is why I worded the first sentence the way I did. As I somewhat expected/suspected, rereading a book I’d previously rated 5+ stars by Alexander ends up with me pushing this book onto the exclusive ‘reread only’ six star shelf.
Right, so, great bits of humor that I personally found quite good and others might find boring; great romance that others, not me, might find vaguely lacking something (in terms of the potential angst/drama of one woman already in a relationship when she meets her ‘soulmate’ – tension somewhat lessoned by the fact that the story is being told by a happy long term couple about how they meet). Oh, and there’s some graphic sex that occurred. Lovely top tier book.
Rating: 6.0
December 18 2017
And here I thought of putting in a bunch of stuff about different types of humor, like: satire/parody, broad humor, low humor, high humor, word play humor, domestic humor, etc. etc. And mention how one of the types of humor I like best is the kind somewhat rarely actually seen, at least by me, in prose novels – the quick-witted sharp dialogue that seems more easily shown, in example form, in plays by Noël Coward (who, largely, seemed to like the comedy of manners type of humor (at least his popular early work) – married couples (Private Lives, Blythe Spirit), families (Hay Fever), etc. I rarely see it in prose novels as, as noted, it tended to involve married couples, not something that’s hugely popular, it appears, with what I personally read. But all of this is beside the point: the point being that humor is difficult to do well, and even when it is done well – 50% of your intended audience might still be bored (at best), or disgusted (at worst).
I specifically mentioned Coward above so I’d mention married couples – so I’d note that this book here involves a married couple. In snippets, at least, in the ‘present’. They, Payton Foret & Ryann Seely, technically aren’t married since, at the time this book was published and set, lesbian marriage was not yet legal in Louisiana, but the two are a long term couple who see themselves, basically, as married. But that’s the ‘present’. And most of the story consists of what happened in the past, when Payton & Ryann first meet, entangled with others, and then finally come together in coupledom. So it’s a variation that both allows the reader to see a ‘married’ couple long after they got together, and see what is normally shown in romance books – a couple coming together.
Payton and Ryann first meet in a bar – as ‘wingwomen’ for Jana and … um, I’m going to say Melena, but could be Melissa, or Melina, or . . . well, doesn’t really matter. Jana and Payton are best friends, while Ryann and M are friends – though, as is both seen throughout the book, and stated at the upfront – M would rather have had Ryann’s significant other there as the wingwoman, as Leigh is more of M’s friend. Leigh being Ryann’s long-term partner of roughly 8 years (several years go by in the telling of this story, and the number 8 got tossed out there at some point, not sure when the number was used, so I’m going with 8).
Payton and Ryann meet well – they have an instant spark, but they also have no obligation to like/dislike/or go through the ‘game’ of romancing – since they are there for their friends, not for themselves. Though Payton does mention that she might have made some kind of play for Ryann but for the fact that she knew that Ryann had a long term girlfriend.
The two meet again about … oh, several months later when M and J have a BBQ. By this point Ryann is still dating Leigh, and Payton is dating ‘squirrel-woman’ (a successful voice actor who specializes in ‘funny voices’ who doesn’t have good control over the ‘on/off’ switch). Squirrel-woman is in and out so quickly from Payton’s life that I didn’t really catch her name (but, then again, I couldn’t recall M’s name and she’s there throughout the book so . . . ). Payton and Ryann reconnect at this party and continue their liking of each other, and their witty banter. For reasons this is only the second time they both have meet, months after first meeting, largely due to how easily Leigh falls into jealous rages at the slightest opportunity, and how little Ryann does to fight this impulse of Leigh’s (beyond basically never going anywhere but for work and home – at least not without Leigh).
Payton and Ryann meet for the third time on J & M’s anniversary – Payton, by this point, is by herself, while Ryann is still with Leigh. Throughout all this time Ryann has made noises that indicate that she doesn’t really want to still be with Leigh, and is ‘just about’ to break up with her. For roughly a year or more. And so the two still don’t date, or cheat with each other, for neither are the cheating type and Ryann is still with Leigh.
Payton works as a ‘children’s educational music jingle writer’, or something like that. She writes children’s show/commercial/film songs. Ryann works as a teacher, I believe a high school teacher though I might have that part wrong.
Of importance: the woman whose name I can’t remember, Melena or whatever, is in the book throughout but mostly on the side as she’s the lover/girlfriend of Jana (not a main character) and more friends with Leigh (not a main character) than with Ryann (main character). Jana is best friends with Payton and therefore pops up whenever the book needed someone like her to pop up (you know, to say things like ‘I know you aren’t the cheating kind’ and stuff like that). Shelly is Ryann’s straight sister, and seems very much her close friend (mom Carol and the two named sisters, and two (or was it three?) unnamed brothers play little part in this story, at least until near the end when the sisters and Carol pops up – for reasons). Shelly’s kids and husband are there when needed for excuses for certain things – like why Shelly’s suddenly over at Ryann’s place (Evan, the husband, tried to burn down the house making food), or why there’s a ‘rat’ running around (Brody, Shelly’s son, got a ferret without asking permission) – but are not otherwise of any real importance to the plot.
Beyond everything else, like say romance and humor, there are two things Alexander likes including in her books: travel and ‘old people’. Here, in this specific book, the travel is covered by several impromptu car trips, while the ‘old person’ is covered by Grace, Payton’s next door neighbor of advanced age. The old people tend to be sources of amusement and be quite wacky, here, though, the wackiest thing about Grace is her weird food combinations.
This is the first book by Alexander that I have successfully reread. I’d previously attempted to listen to the audio for one prior book, without success, which is why I worded the first sentence the way I did. As I somewhat expected/suspected, rereading a book I’d previously rated 5+ stars by Alexander ends up with me pushing this book onto the exclusive ‘reread only’ six star shelf.
Right, so, great bits of humor that I personally found quite good and others might find boring; great romance that others, not me, might find vaguely lacking something (in terms of the potential angst/drama of one woman already in a relationship when she meets her ‘soulmate’ – tension somewhat lessoned by the fact that the story is being told by a happy long term couple about how they meet). Oh, and there’s some graphic sex that occurred. Lovely top tier book.
Rating: 6.0
December 18 2017
December 20, 2019
This has been a strange year of reading for me. I've done more rereads than ever before because some books just weren't hitting the way I'd like. So, I decided to turn to Robin Alexander to deplete this ever-growing 'to-read' shelf. And I'm glad I did!
To be fair, I wasn't exactly feeling it in the beginning. I liked Ryann and Payton enough, but I didn't quite feel the sparks yet.
And then, something changed. I think once they got past I could really dig in and love it. As Ryann and Payton stopped listening to everyone else's advice on not going for it, it got good. And sillier! I'd missed my Alexander-brand laughs and I finally received! Shelly, Ryann's sister, was bonkers, but enjoyable. I found Payton's best friend Jana and Melanie annoying.
If you care about sex scenes, but ooooweeee did this certain one have a delicious buildup. I was melting. Robin Alexander knows her way around sexy talk like whoa.
I'm glad I stuck with this book. Onto the next!
To be fair, I wasn't exactly feeling it in the beginning. I liked Ryann and Payton enough, but I didn't quite feel the sparks yet.
And then, something changed. I think once they got past I could really dig in and love it. As Ryann and Payton stopped listening to everyone else's advice on not going for it, it got good. And sillier! I'd missed my Alexander-brand laughs and I finally received! Shelly, Ryann's sister, was bonkers, but enjoyable. I found Payton's best friend Jana and Melanie annoying.
If you care about sex scenes, but ooooweeee did this certain one have a delicious buildup. I was melting. Robin Alexander knows her way around sexy talk like whoa.
I'm glad I stuck with this book. Onto the next!
February 7, 2017
This is one of the funniest books I've read in a while. I couldn't stop laughing. And I rather liked the relationships on display - between the main characters, the friends & sister.
If I didn't have that 'needs to be a reread' rule for my top star shelf, I'd seriously consider this book for that shelf.
Granted, this was a really fluffy book and I know some need more drama and angst (there was some, but outside forces)
If I didn't have that 'needs to be a reread' rule for my top star shelf, I'd seriously consider this book for that shelf.
Granted, this was a really fluffy book and I know some need more drama and angst (there was some, but outside forces)
March 7, 2022
This book has a different approach than most, we know how the story ends before if begins but it is told in a way that takes nothing away from us. I love romance, pure and simple romance and this is a very successful one. Even though there aren’t any other plots than the romance (which I like) and we know how it ends, I was still hanging on to every sentence. As always, Alexander is hilarious and Lori Prince does such an excellent job with the audiobook. I couldn’t stop listening. Loved it and I highly recommend it for those who love romance and humour!
May 28, 2022
3.75
February 5, 2017
4.5 stars
So funny. I've read loads of books by Alexander and loved most of them but this is one of my faves. A great light read, love all the characters - expect for Leigh, she's a psycho!
Such a sweet romantic story about soul mates. I like tha way it was told and I liked how open Payton and Ryann were with each other.
I loved Shelly, she cracked me up so many times.
So funny. I've read loads of books by Alexander and loved most of them but this is one of my faves. A great light read, love all the characters - expect for Leigh, she's a psycho!
Such a sweet romantic story about soul mates. I like tha way it was told and I liked how open Payton and Ryann were with each other.
I loved Shelly, she cracked me up so many times.
June 6, 2016
This is a 3.5 for me but I couldn't just round it up to 4 :) the author is quite funny , characters are very likeable especially the sister Shelly she's really hilarious! The book is just what I call "cute" nothing more nothing less ..
February 28, 2015
I would describe Robin's newest offering, Next Time, as more of the same. Fortunately for her that is a compliment. There are plenty of laughs, great secondary characters and a fun easy going story. This is a plot that would be really angsty in another author's hands, but Robin just doesn't roll that way.
Payton and Ryann have really nice chemistry and I kind of loved how even though everyone around them thought it was a bad idea they just couldn't resist the pull that drew them together. Even though Ryann is already in a committed relationship at the beginning of the story there is no infidelity here in case that is a trigger for you.
Ryann's sister Shelly is a standout as is Payton's early girlfriend, Lydia aka Steffie the Squirrel.
I think I'll always wish that Robin's books were a touch longer, but its a minor complaint. Great read 4.5/5
Payton and Ryann have really nice chemistry and I kind of loved how even though everyone around them thought it was a bad idea they just couldn't resist the pull that drew them together. Even though Ryann is already in a committed relationship at the beginning of the story there is no infidelity here in case that is a trigger for you.
Ryann's sister Shelly is a standout as is Payton's early girlfriend, Lydia aka Steffie the Squirrel.
I think I'll always wish that Robin's books were a touch longer, but its a minor complaint. Great read 4.5/5
January 27, 2023
I love Robin Alexander. Her view of the world is hilarious. Her romances are gentle, humorous and filled with background characters that you may know in real life or want to know. Lesbians living their best life in the southern US is her specialty and this book is no exception. This audiobook is narrated by Lori Prince, who I think narrates all of Robin's books. These two are a match made in audiobook heaven. There is no one that compares to Prince's comedic timing and voices. I give this one a 9 out of 5 so do yourself a favor and find the audio version of this book.
September 17, 2023
DNF at 30%. Too many flashbacks listening to the audiobook. I’ll try it again another time.
September 18, 2017
I was hesitant to read this one because I'm not a fan of books that start with one of the leads already in a relationship. Turns out I was right, because it takes until the 40% mark before the book gets to a point where the leads can embark on their relationship, although they do meet prior to that point.
Robin likes to write quirky supporting characters and this book has the requisite number of those, the humour was fairly engaging and both lead characters were interesting enough. It just wasn't enough for me. I felt like I was treading water for too long to get to the meat of the story, and then there was too much zaniness towards the end. The narration of the story also broke up the flow. There were actually several points where I forgot they were telling their story and when it went back to the present it felt jarring.
The book also had several missing and misspelt words, and some missing punctuation, so it could have used a bit more of a polish. Not my favourite, but it's a quick, ok read.
Robin likes to write quirky supporting characters and this book has the requisite number of those, the humour was fairly engaging and both lead characters were interesting enough. It just wasn't enough for me. I felt like I was treading water for too long to get to the meat of the story, and then there was too much zaniness towards the end. The narration of the story also broke up the flow. There were actually several points where I forgot they were telling their story and when it went back to the present it felt jarring.
The book also had several missing and misspelt words, and some missing punctuation, so it could have used a bit more of a polish. Not my favourite, but it's a quick, ok read.
April 3, 2017
3.5 stars. I thought this book was okay. It struck me as super bland until the last 5-10 percent of the book. Characters weren't that deep and the dialogue was off to me. At times, both Ryann and Payton talk almost in monologue without even getting a reaction from the other and then they'd break into non sequiturs. I think the dialogue was being used for backstory exposition but not in a subtle or in a particularly interesting way. Maybe it was me but I didn't feel a lot of passion here. I felt there was a lot more telling than showing...so that really bogged it down. I was wondering if the author may have been bored herself?
Basically, this is a sweet feel good romance that's a little on the slow, more mellow side.
Basically, this is a sweet feel good romance that's a little on the slow, more mellow side.
November 26, 2017
3.5 stars
Good, low key story. The writing is Robin Alexander on a good day. Her stories never seem to be about world building but rather quick-paced, clever conversations and this is no different. The couple in love, Payton and Ryann, are also being interviewed about their relationship ten years after the main story of their meeting and courtship and the interviews are used as chapter leads which has it a little different than a standard romance. There's also a crazy ex. Payton's friend seems clueless and headed toward her own troubles in the future with her overly controlling love interest -I didn't enjoy the side characters really, except for Ryann's sister, Shelley who was quite funny.
Good, low key story. The writing is Robin Alexander on a good day. Her stories never seem to be about world building but rather quick-paced, clever conversations and this is no different. The couple in love, Payton and Ryann, are also being interviewed about their relationship ten years after the main story of their meeting and courtship and the interviews are used as chapter leads which has it a little different than a standard romance. There's also a crazy ex. Payton's friend seems clueless and headed toward her own troubles in the future with her overly controlling love interest -I didn't enjoy the side characters really, except for Ryann's sister, Shelley who was quite funny.
July 24, 2015
Want something lighthearted, funny, romantic and naturally with a HEA then Robin Alexander is your girl.
Her new book doesn't exactly break any new ground but is still a nice bit of escapism.
Her new book doesn't exactly break any new ground but is still a nice bit of escapism.
December 26, 2025
Robin Alexander is just so reliable. I needed a break from holiday books, so I picked this one up. We follow Ryann and Payton in a little bit of a When Harry Met Sally way. The book starts off with an interviewer asking them their story. Pretty great premise and something a little different from the norm. I did have a bit of a difficult time telling Ryann and Payton apart. Their voices were so similar and I would have loved a bit more description of them as characters. Very funny, just like all of Alexander’s romcoms and filled with sassy banter and the one spicy scene. This one does touch a bit on Ryann being in an abusive relationship, without really saying it’s abusive. But I loved how Payton and Ryann talked things through was they were getting together. I’m gonna be so sad when I’m done with Alexander’s catalog.
March 1, 2015
Wonderfully hilarious
I just love this Author's work, they're fun, romantic and sexy. I liked Payton and Rayann's characters right away. The story of their lives and the people in them was hilarious at times and frustrating with the intrusion of their friends, who all in all meant well. I definitely recommend this book to all readers out there.
I just love this Author's work, they're fun, romantic and sexy. I liked Payton and Rayann's characters right away. The story of their lives and the people in them was hilarious at times and frustrating with the intrusion of their friends, who all in all meant well. I definitely recommend this book to all readers out there.
August 14, 2021
A love story with a so many fun twists.
I just love this great telling of a lifetime kind of love. The supporting characters brought so much fun and pure silly moments. The main characters Ryann and Payton made my heart swoon. A chance meeting at a bar brings them together. Unfortunately all the feels in the world would not let Payton make a pass because Ryann was in a relationship. It was easy to not like Leigh and so glad her real crappy way of living comes out. As Ryann sees her overwhelming sadness at a relationship she left a long time ago. Now there are so many cute, funny, down right scary moments as they share with Olivia the story of their relationship start. So I will say how much I loved this story, it's characters and just so human way of falling in love. I listened to it first and bought the ebook so I could reread and listen to it.
I just love this great telling of a lifetime kind of love. The supporting characters brought so much fun and pure silly moments. The main characters Ryann and Payton made my heart swoon. A chance meeting at a bar brings them together. Unfortunately all the feels in the world would not let Payton make a pass because Ryann was in a relationship. It was easy to not like Leigh and so glad her real crappy way of living comes out. As Ryann sees her overwhelming sadness at a relationship she left a long time ago. Now there are so many cute, funny, down right scary moments as they share with Olivia the story of their relationship start. So I will say how much I loved this story, it's characters and just so human way of falling in love. I listened to it first and bought the ebook so I could reread and listen to it.
January 20, 2018
This is the sixth book I’ve read by Robin Alexander and while I’m reading them I really enjoy them (well, nearly all of them). They’re funny, the characters are interesting with some seriously crazy ones thrown in and the story is usually pretty good. The weird thing is though that within three weeks I have no memory of the book or characters (except for The Secret of St. Claire which for some reason has found a hideyhole in my brain). I’m probably more engaged by angst than humour.
If I don’t write the review straight after I’ve finished I wouldn’t be able to. I don’t know what the reason is and it doesn’t stop me reading Alexander’s books. That said, Next Time was okay and not nearly as enjoyable as some of her others. Payton and Ryann’s names are too similar in shape so I kept mixing them up which meant that I had to think about who was talking and backtrack constantly for context. The story didn’t hold my attention and I kept finding something else to occupy my mind like surfing the internet.
I enjoyed parts of it but for me, this was about 2.5 stars rounded up.
If I don’t write the review straight after I’ve finished I wouldn’t be able to. I don’t know what the reason is and it doesn’t stop me reading Alexander’s books. That said, Next Time was okay and not nearly as enjoyable as some of her others. Payton and Ryann’s names are too similar in shape so I kept mixing them up which meant that I had to think about who was talking and backtrack constantly for context. The story didn’t hold my attention and I kept finding something else to occupy my mind like surfing the internet.
I enjoyed parts of it but for me, this was about 2.5 stars rounded up.
March 4, 2015
You really can't go wrong with a Robin Alexander book. She has that secret touch to make a book both interesting and funny with relatable characters. I didn't think I would, but I have to say I enjoyed the way it was Payton and Ryann telling their story to Olivia. The brief introductions they give as the story unfolds were a lovely inclusion.
It is by no means plain sailing for the two main characters but their story unfolds in a natural way. As always with this authors books the main characters are supported by an interesting set of secondary characters. Some of which you want to hit, well I did anyway. Definitely worth a read!
It is by no means plain sailing for the two main characters but their story unfolds in a natural way. As always with this authors books the main characters are supported by an interesting set of secondary characters. Some of which you want to hit, well I did anyway. Definitely worth a read!
June 3, 2018
Payton and Ryann recount the beginnings of their relationship to a third party interviewer. Needless to say, it was a trip. Needless to say, it was crazy; maybe a bit too crazy.
May 14, 2021
5/10
How did I manage to not have high hopes and still be disappointed?
I’m not a fan of going back and forth between then and now HIMYM style so that was actually pretty annoying and I knew I wasn’t going to enjoy it. I did kind of get used to it but I feel that the story could’ve been done better (without the MCs narrating their story thing).
EVERYONE is just annoying.
I can’t even decide who out of Jenna, Melanie, Lee, Shelly, the mother and the other sister was the most annoying one.
Everything was very two dimensional and I was cringing the whole time. It didn’t feel natural at all but I still enjoyed it to some level hence the rating.
I mean just IMAGINE your highschool history teacher reading your very private diary about a guy you have a mad crush on and then whispering in your ear: “I hope all your heart desires are answered. Be wise and safe.”
AAAAAAA I CRINGED SO BAD
Maybe I really should’ve just stopped reading it then.
I do have a lot of Robin Alexander’s books in my tbr list, though, and I hope I will like some of those at least a bit more.
7/10 audio
Definitely a bit below average for Lori Prince whom I usually love listening to. Though, I have a feeling this lower rating is because of the unlikable characters in the story.
How did I manage to not have high hopes and still be disappointed?
I’m not a fan of going back and forth between then and now HIMYM style so that was actually pretty annoying and I knew I wasn’t going to enjoy it. I did kind of get used to it but I feel that the story could’ve been done better (without the MCs narrating their story thing).
EVERYONE is just annoying.
I can’t even decide who out of Jenna, Melanie, Lee, Shelly, the mother and the other sister was the most annoying one.
Everything was very two dimensional and I was cringing the whole time. It didn’t feel natural at all but I still enjoyed it to some level hence the rating.
I mean just IMAGINE your highschool history teacher reading your very private diary about a guy you have a mad crush on and then whispering in your ear: “I hope all your heart desires are answered. Be wise and safe.”
AAAAAAA I CRINGED SO BAD
Maybe I really should’ve just stopped reading it then.
I do have a lot of Robin Alexander’s books in my tbr list, though, and I hope I will like some of those at least a bit more.
7/10 audio
Definitely a bit below average for Lori Prince whom I usually love listening to. Though, I have a feeling this lower rating is because of the unlikable characters in the story.
February 15, 2024
Even listening to audiobooks on 2x speed, I always feel so sad when finishing a Robin Alexander book!! They are always filled with wonderful and real characters, and generally have fabulous family / friend dynamics that enhance every comedic and dramatic moment!! This was no exception!!
I love the premise of this one: a couple giving an interview about how they got together, the steps leading to it; how broken relationships and chance encounters really can affect one's life for the better (or worse, but in this case better).
I love the premise of this one: a couple giving an interview about how they got together, the steps leading to it; how broken relationships and chance encounters really can affect one's life for the better (or worse, but in this case better).
October 18, 2024
Omg. This author/narrator combo really hits the mark! It never fails…Laughter escapes, I bite the edge of my nails, I shake my head, I swoon.
This story was formatted a bit differently. It started in the future with our MCs being interviewed and most chapters jumped back to the interview before continuing the story of how they met and how their relationship blossomed.
This story was formatted a bit differently. It started in the future with our MCs being interviewed and most chapters jumped back to the interview before continuing the story of how they met and how their relationship blossomed.
September 19, 2017
Well now I'm just getting sad.. I'm starting to run out of this author's books and I'll miss them for sure. Lesbian romance books with great humor in them is rare to find but one thing is certain, you'll find it in Alexander's books for sure. They just can't disappoint you if you need a pick up for a bad mood. They're short, sweet, funny, everything you need in a great book.
November 7, 2018
I would have sued Leigh. Just a lil bit.
April 5, 2021
Absolutely hilarious and another perfect combo with Robin Alexander and Lori Prince.
October 26, 2024
Funny, relatable and easy to follow
July 11, 2017
Another book of Robin Alexander that i have finished. This is the 9th book that i had finished if i counted it correctly. I enjoy every books of Robin, her books never fail to make me smile and laugh at the same times.
Alright! Back to this book, again this book made me keep smiling and laughing at the same. I really enjoy it. There is not too much drama that made you depress either, thats what i like Robin's books the best. Funny, relaxing and not too much drama. I love all of the characters in this book except Leigh, of course. There are lots of meaningful words that had been spoken between characters that make you think and consider for your future references (in 'love' department, LOL that's what for me)
Well i really enjoy every bit of this book. Thank you for made and sharing this and other wonderful books <3
Alright! Back to this book, again this book made me keep smiling and laughing at the same. I really enjoy it. There is not too much drama that made you depress either, thats what i like Robin's books the best. Funny, relaxing and not too much drama. I love all of the characters in this book except Leigh, of course. There are lots of meaningful words that had been spoken between characters that make you think and consider for your future references (in 'love' department, LOL that's what for me)
Well i really enjoy every bit of this book. Thank you for made and sharing this and other wonderful books <3
April 21, 2015
As with most of Robin's books, I found this an effortless read; enjoyable and fun, with some great characters. And these two main characters were definitely favorites.
The set up was simple, but well done. The drama never too full on, and the laughs never too forced. This book - though still full of levity - felt a little more mature than some of Robin's other work. There was a seriousness that was dealt with very deftly.
I really just adored Payton and Ryan, and their way of speaking with each other (the teasing playfulness) reminded me a lot of my girlfriend and I. It was nice to read.
One of my favorites from this author.
The set up was simple, but well done. The drama never too full on, and the laughs never too forced. This book - though still full of levity - felt a little more mature than some of Robin's other work. There was a seriousness that was dealt with very deftly.
I really just adored Payton and Ryan, and their way of speaking with each other (the teasing playfulness) reminded me a lot of my girlfriend and I. It was nice to read.
One of my favorites from this author.
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