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Just A Phase
Not yet published
Expected 2 Jun 26When you catch your long-term boyfriend getting cozy with his soon-to-be stepsister—on your couch, in your house—there are really only two cry into a pint of ice cream… or have some fun of your own.
Palmer Jade chooses the latter.
At thirty-something, newly single, and zero patience for emotional entanglements, Palmer is ready to make up for lost time. Her rules are good sex, good times, no strings. So when someone from her best friend’s husband’s unit—Bailey Diaz, a ridiculously hot Army soldier with a smirk that should be illegal and a body to match—shows up to help with some things around the house, Palmer figures he’s the perfect candidate for a temporary distraction.
Bailey’s not looking for anything serious either. Between deployments, he barely has time to breathe, let alone date. But when Palmer invites him on a petty revenge mission to her ex’s house and he ends up accidentally (on purpose) running over the guy’s stuff, things escalate—fast. One hookup turns into two, and suddenly Bailey’s seeing Palmer as more than just a fling.
But with Bailey constantly being shipped off to who-knows-where and Palmer determined not to catch feelings, their situationship is on borrowed time. And neither of them is quite ready for what happens when real life—and real feelings—start to get in the way.
Palmer Jade chooses the latter.
At thirty-something, newly single, and zero patience for emotional entanglements, Palmer is ready to make up for lost time. Her rules are good sex, good times, no strings. So when someone from her best friend’s husband’s unit—Bailey Diaz, a ridiculously hot Army soldier with a smirk that should be illegal and a body to match—shows up to help with some things around the house, Palmer figures he’s the perfect candidate for a temporary distraction.
Bailey’s not looking for anything serious either. Between deployments, he barely has time to breathe, let alone date. But when Palmer invites him on a petty revenge mission to her ex’s house and he ends up accidentally (on purpose) running over the guy’s stuff, things escalate—fast. One hookup turns into two, and suddenly Bailey’s seeing Palmer as more than just a fling.
But with Bailey constantly being shipped off to who-knows-where and Palmer determined not to catch feelings, their situationship is on borrowed time. And neither of them is quite ready for what happens when real life—and real feelings—start to get in the way.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks to author Blake Morgan for the ARC copy and giving me the chance to review before publication in June.
Solid 4.25 stars!
This was such a cute read and a wild ride in terms of emotions - I have been giggling, kicking my feet, sweating and crying...
First of, I love the diversity and representation in this book: different body types, physical disabilities as well as issues like PTSD and anxiety.
I could really identify with the FMC Palmer, and the MMC Bailey.... swoon! Literally the epitome of a perfect man.
Their story felt so relatable, and a breath of fresh air from all the toxicity in contemporary romance novels - this was gentle, sweet and no red flag traits in sight! Imagine a relationship after both people have been to therapy 😉...
And the spice was spice'ing🌶🌶🌶!
Would overall recommend and wishing the author the best for publication.
Solid 4.25 stars!
This was such a cute read and a wild ride in terms of emotions - I have been giggling, kicking my feet, sweating and crying...
First of, I love the diversity and representation in this book: different body types, physical disabilities as well as issues like PTSD and anxiety.
I could really identify with the FMC Palmer, and the MMC Bailey.... swoon! Literally the epitome of a perfect man.
Their story felt so relatable, and a breath of fresh air from all the toxicity in contemporary romance novels - this was gentle, sweet and no red flag traits in sight! Imagine a relationship after both people have been to therapy 😉...
And the spice was spice'ing🌶🌶🌶!
Would overall recommend and wishing the author the best for publication.
May 3, 2026
I had the pleasure of being on the ARC team for “Just a Phase”. To say I ate this up is an understatement! I couldn’t put it down. First of all Palmer the FMC was so relatable and has the biggest heart, she was easy to love. Bailey literally the epitome of perfect man!
Palmer walked in on her longtime boyfriend cheating on her and finally cut him loose. She decided to have a ho phase after years of an awful and unfulfilling relationship.
Bailey is a friend of a friend who helps take her ex’s stuff to him and they end up spending time together.
Neither of them want a relationship, Palmer because she’s newly single and Bailey because of his military career. But they fall hard!
One thing I appreciate is the authenticity of the military side of things. Being a military spouse there was definitely things I could relate too as well as things my husband has experienced. It was refreshing.
The spice was SPICY but with plenty of plot. I was giggly and laughing but some parts almost brought me to tears. Overall I love this book and I highly recommend!
Palmer walked in on her longtime boyfriend cheating on her and finally cut him loose. She decided to have a ho phase after years of an awful and unfulfilling relationship.
Bailey is a friend of a friend who helps take her ex’s stuff to him and they end up spending time together.
Neither of them want a relationship, Palmer because she’s newly single and Bailey because of his military career. But they fall hard!
One thing I appreciate is the authenticity of the military side of things. Being a military spouse there was definitely things I could relate too as well as things my husband has experienced. It was refreshing.
The spice was SPICY but with plenty of plot. I was giggly and laughing but some parts almost brought me to tears. Overall I love this book and I highly recommend!
May 6, 2026
Just a Phase was such an enjoyable read from start to finish. The story follows Palmer as she begins exploring a new side of herself after leaving a long-term relationship. When she meets Bailey, the connection between them feels natural, emotional, and exciting in a way that keeps you completely invested.
The chemistry between Palmer and Bailey was written so well, and I loved watching their relationship grow. There was the perfect mix of love, humor, emotion, and some very spicy scenes that added so much to the story without taking away from the plot. The writing style was easy to read and flowed effortlessly, making it hard to put the book down. Every chapter left me wanting to know what would happen next.
I honestly could not stop reading once I started. The characters felt real, relatable, and easy to connect with, and the emotional journey throughout the book was beautifully done. I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, and I’m so glad I had the chance to read it early. If you enjoy romance with strong chemistry, heartfelt moments, humor, and spice, I would definitely recommend Just a Phase.
The chemistry between Palmer and Bailey was written so well, and I loved watching their relationship grow. There was the perfect mix of love, humor, emotion, and some very spicy scenes that added so much to the story without taking away from the plot. The writing style was easy to read and flowed effortlessly, making it hard to put the book down. Every chapter left me wanting to know what would happen next.
I honestly could not stop reading once I started. The characters felt real, relatable, and easy to connect with, and the emotional journey throughout the book was beautifully done. I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, and I’m so glad I had the chance to read it early. If you enjoy romance with strong chemistry, heartfelt moments, humor, and spice, I would definitely recommend Just a Phase.
May 9, 2026
Just a Phase was everything I was hoping for and more!! Palmer was instantly lovable and so relatable!
Bailey is the perfect “touch her and die” MMC, tattooed, protective, slightly unhinged, and completely obsessed with Palmer in the best way. The fact that he falls first made me love him even more.
And Mouse was the perfect addition to their story.
If you love Military romance, emotional vulnerability, “he falls first,” and protective MMCs, this one delivers.
I did not expect to get so choked up in this book but I am so glad that I was one of the chosen to be an ARC reader for Just a Phase it truly was an honor!
Bailey is the perfect “touch her and die” MMC, tattooed, protective, slightly unhinged, and completely obsessed with Palmer in the best way. The fact that he falls first made me love him even more.
And Mouse was the perfect addition to their story.
If you love Military romance, emotional vulnerability, “he falls first,” and protective MMCs, this one delivers.
I did not expect to get so choked up in this book but I am so glad that I was one of the chosen to be an ARC reader for Just a Phase it truly was an honor!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Palmer’s long-term boyfriend cheating on her in the first chapter immediately had me ready to fight, but honestly it ended up being the best thing that could’ve happened because it pushed her into finally choosing herself. I loved watching her decide she was done wasting time on mediocre men and fully commit to dating, having fun, and figuring out what she actually wanted.
Bailey completely stole this book for me. He could’ve easily fallen into the overly possessive alpha trope, but instead he was thoughtful, patient, emotionally aware, and actually listened. The man has a therapist, pays attention to the little things, supports Palmer without trying to control her, and consistently shows up for her in ways that mattered. Their chemistry was incredible from the start, but what really sold me was how naturally they connected outside of the attraction. The flirting, the tension, the jealousy, the banter, the emotional vulnerability… all of it worked.
One of my favorite parts was how much care went into their emotional development. Bailey opening up about his childhood, his anger issues as a teen, and the teacher who changed his life genuinely hit hard. Palmer being a special ed teacher added so much heart to the story too, especially when she shared why that career mattered so much to her. These two really took the time to know each other deeply, which made the romance feel earned.
There are also some genuinely funny moments mixed in with the emotional ones. The dog shelter scene, the accidental oversharing, the drunk caretaking scene, the students noticing everything, and Bailey constantly trying to keep himself together around Palmer had me grinning the entire time. And yes, the tension and spicy scenes absolutely delivered.
The final stretch wrecked me emotionally in the best way. This book balanced sweetness, humor, vulnerability, and romance so well, and by the end I was completely attached to both characters. Watching Bailey slowly realize he finally had something worth changing his future for was especially moving.
Overall, this was a really heartfelt romance with strong emotional intimacy, great chemistry, lovable side characters, and a relationship that actually felt built on trust and understanding instead of just attraction.
Thank you to Blake Morgan for the ARC!
Bailey completely stole this book for me. He could’ve easily fallen into the overly possessive alpha trope, but instead he was thoughtful, patient, emotionally aware, and actually listened. The man has a therapist, pays attention to the little things, supports Palmer without trying to control her, and consistently shows up for her in ways that mattered. Their chemistry was incredible from the start, but what really sold me was how naturally they connected outside of the attraction. The flirting, the tension, the jealousy, the banter, the emotional vulnerability… all of it worked.
One of my favorite parts was how much care went into their emotional development. Bailey opening up about his childhood, his anger issues as a teen, and the teacher who changed his life genuinely hit hard. Palmer being a special ed teacher added so much heart to the story too, especially when she shared why that career mattered so much to her. These two really took the time to know each other deeply, which made the romance feel earned.
There are also some genuinely funny moments mixed in with the emotional ones. The dog shelter scene, the accidental oversharing, the drunk caretaking scene, the students noticing everything, and Bailey constantly trying to keep himself together around Palmer had me grinning the entire time. And yes, the tension and spicy scenes absolutely delivered.
The final stretch wrecked me emotionally in the best way. This book balanced sweetness, humor, vulnerability, and romance so well, and by the end I was completely attached to both characters. Watching Bailey slowly realize he finally had something worth changing his future for was especially moving.
Overall, this was a really heartfelt romance with strong emotional intimacy, great chemistry, lovable side characters, and a relationship that actually felt built on trust and understanding instead of just attraction.
Thank you to Blake Morgan for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Palmer walks in after a long day of teaching and all of the fun things involved in teaching, to find her boyfriend of nearly 5 years cheating on her, with his stepsister. Of course she’s too nice to kick him out immediately so she enlists the help of her friends husband and his mates to finally get rid of him. She knows his not going to leave without a fight. He doesn’t take all of his stuff, so she boxes up what’s been left and Bailey takes her to drop it off so she has backup. Her ex made her feel like she was too much and too little all at the same time. He tore her down and made her feel like nothing. Now she wants her ‘ho phase’. Casual, no strings.
Bailey Diaz is tasked with helping his friends kick out Palmers ex. He has 2 sisters, and was raised mostly by a single mum but the truth is his dad was abusive. His dad used to beat his mum, him and his siblings. He was bullied a lot at school because of his dad cheating on his mum and leaving her for the teacher he knocked up. That’s how he learnt how to fight. Then he met Mr Thompson. He taught him it was okay to feel your feelings and it changed his life. Mr Thompson was a Vietnam veteran and that’s why Bailey joined the Army. Been in the army, special forces for 10 years. His drawn to Palmer, there’s just something about her. They both want casual with no strings attached, until they don’t.
I recieved this book as an ARC and am leaving an honest review. This was my first read from Blake and I enjoyed it. The book was well written and you could really feel the connection between Palmer and Bailey. I feel like there was a really good plot at the start and then the ending was just there, but that could be what’s in the next book?
There was a whole lot of laughter, banter, found family and tears. Can’t wait to see what’s to come!
Bailey Diaz is tasked with helping his friends kick out Palmers ex. He has 2 sisters, and was raised mostly by a single mum but the truth is his dad was abusive. His dad used to beat his mum, him and his siblings. He was bullied a lot at school because of his dad cheating on his mum and leaving her for the teacher he knocked up. That’s how he learnt how to fight. Then he met Mr Thompson. He taught him it was okay to feel your feelings and it changed his life. Mr Thompson was a Vietnam veteran and that’s why Bailey joined the Army. Been in the army, special forces for 10 years. His drawn to Palmer, there’s just something about her. They both want casual with no strings attached, until they don’t.
I recieved this book as an ARC and am leaving an honest review. This was my first read from Blake and I enjoyed it. The book was well written and you could really feel the connection between Palmer and Bailey. I feel like there was a really good plot at the start and then the ending was just there, but that could be what’s in the next book?
There was a whole lot of laughter, banter, found family and tears. Can’t wait to see what’s to come!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was everything I expected and more!
Palmer is fresh off a break up from a narcissistic cheating ex and becomes fast friends with Bailey after he helps their mutual friend ensure her ex moves out of her place. She doesn’t think someone like Bailey would be interested in hooking up with her but doesn’t let that stop her from admiring his good looks and getting to know his charming personality. Bailey can’t stop admiring the beautiful woman he met and wouldn’t mind helping with hey “ho phase” as she calls it. He also wouldn’t mind being the one to make her laugh again and again.
While they explore their new found friendship and the benefits that they are finding come with it, they start to wonder what life would be like with the other person. Palmer wonders what life with a safe and attentive person like Bailey would be like. Someone who listens and cares about her interests. Bailey wonders for the first time in his life what life outside of the Army actually might look like if Palmer were a part of it. The one he can see himself falling asleep with at night and making breakfast with in the morning. The things he never thought he’d want are now becoming things he can have and doesn’t want to let go of.
I was not expecting to cry as much as I did reading this book. I knew Bailey was in the Army and I knew it might touch close to home, but I just didn’t expect the waterworks. It was such a wonderful read and I will definitely be recommending it to others!
This review is based upon my own thoughts and opinions. Thank you to the author for my ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
Palmer is fresh off a break up from a narcissistic cheating ex and becomes fast friends with Bailey after he helps their mutual friend ensure her ex moves out of her place. She doesn’t think someone like Bailey would be interested in hooking up with her but doesn’t let that stop her from admiring his good looks and getting to know his charming personality. Bailey can’t stop admiring the beautiful woman he met and wouldn’t mind helping with hey “ho phase” as she calls it. He also wouldn’t mind being the one to make her laugh again and again.
While they explore their new found friendship and the benefits that they are finding come with it, they start to wonder what life would be like with the other person. Palmer wonders what life with a safe and attentive person like Bailey would be like. Someone who listens and cares about her interests. Bailey wonders for the first time in his life what life outside of the Army actually might look like if Palmer were a part of it. The one he can see himself falling asleep with at night and making breakfast with in the morning. The things he never thought he’d want are now becoming things he can have and doesn’t want to let go of.
I was not expecting to cry as much as I did reading this book. I knew Bailey was in the Army and I knew it might touch close to home, but I just didn’t expect the waterworks. It was such a wonderful read and I will definitely be recommending it to others!
This review is based upon my own thoughts and opinions. Thank you to the author for my ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC Review**
You ever read a book that slips under your skin and makes itself comfortable there? The kind that quietly settles into your soul and refuses to leave? That was this one for me.
Palmer resonated with me in a way I wasn’t expecting, not just because of who she is, but because of what she’s survived. Clay was truly the worst, and unfortunately, I can say from experience that those kinds of wounds don’t always heal cleanly.
And then there’s Bailey. Sweet lord, Bailey. The standard. The blueprint. The man all others should probably be measured against, though maybe that’s just me. 😅 The way he looks at Palmer, the way he loves her, the way he worships the parts of her that others made her feel unworthy of... it honestly wrecked me in the best way.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and the spice? Fantastic. Plentiful. Very much tailored to my particular brand of literary damage. 😂 But beyond that, it was the tenderness that got me. Their friends, Mouse (who I also would’ve adopted immediately), the way Bailey took genuine interest in her world and wanted nothing more than to make her happy.
As much as this book made me smile, it also absolutely shattered me a few times. The heartbreak caught me off guard, but somehow it felt necessary. Earned.
Truly, I can’t say enough good things about this story because it hit somewhere deep. Somewhere not many books ever manage to reach.
You ever read a book that slips under your skin and makes itself comfortable there? The kind that quietly settles into your soul and refuses to leave? That was this one for me.
Palmer resonated with me in a way I wasn’t expecting, not just because of who she is, but because of what she’s survived. Clay was truly the worst, and unfortunately, I can say from experience that those kinds of wounds don’t always heal cleanly.
And then there’s Bailey. Sweet lord, Bailey. The standard. The blueprint. The man all others should probably be measured against, though maybe that’s just me. 😅 The way he looks at Palmer, the way he loves her, the way he worships the parts of her that others made her feel unworthy of... it honestly wrecked me in the best way.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and the spice? Fantastic. Plentiful. Very much tailored to my particular brand of literary damage. 😂 But beyond that, it was the tenderness that got me. Their friends, Mouse (who I also would’ve adopted immediately), the way Bailey took genuine interest in her world and wanted nothing more than to make her happy.
As much as this book made me smile, it also absolutely shattered me a few times. The heartbreak caught me off guard, but somehow it felt necessary. Earned.
Truly, I can’t say enough good things about this story because it hit somewhere deep. Somewhere not many books ever manage to reach.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I gave Just a Phase by Blake Morgan 4 stars—this one hooked me right from the start.
Palmer is a special ed teacher who walks in on her long-term boyfriend cheating, and when he refuses to leave, she calls in help… which is how Bailey enters the story. From the moment he shows up, he’s compassionate, steady, and exactly what Palmer needs,even if neither of them is looking for anything serious.
The chemistry between them is instant, but what I really loved was how natural their connection felt. Palmer opens up to Bailey and he’s more than willing to be there for her, even if he thinks he might just be a temporary distraction.
Bailey completely stole my heart. Protective, patient, and all-in from the start (we love a “he falls first” MMC). Their relationship had such a good balance of emotional depth and steam.
I also really appreciated the military aspect of the story. As a former military spouse, I could feel the realism in those moments, and it added another layer to the emotional impact.
This book took me on a emotional ride. I laughed, got frustrated, and definitely cried.
Tropes you’ll get:
* Plus size FMC
* Protective MMC
* He falls first
* Military romance elements
* Adorable dog sidekick
If you love emotional, slightly angsty romances with strong chemistry and heart, this is definitely worth picking up.
Palmer is a special ed teacher who walks in on her long-term boyfriend cheating, and when he refuses to leave, she calls in help… which is how Bailey enters the story. From the moment he shows up, he’s compassionate, steady, and exactly what Palmer needs,even if neither of them is looking for anything serious.
The chemistry between them is instant, but what I really loved was how natural their connection felt. Palmer opens up to Bailey and he’s more than willing to be there for her, even if he thinks he might just be a temporary distraction.
Bailey completely stole my heart. Protective, patient, and all-in from the start (we love a “he falls first” MMC). Their relationship had such a good balance of emotional depth and steam.
I also really appreciated the military aspect of the story. As a former military spouse, I could feel the realism in those moments, and it added another layer to the emotional impact.
This book took me on a emotional ride. I laughed, got frustrated, and definitely cried.
Tropes you’ll get:
* Plus size FMC
* Protective MMC
* He falls first
* Military romance elements
* Adorable dog sidekick
If you love emotional, slightly angsty romances with strong chemistry and heart, this is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC read review:
4 stars
3-4 spice rating
there was some times when i wanted the book to be finished. i found that it did kinda drag on in some parts.
BUTTTT
it was a really good read!
i absolutely LOVE how Bailey treated Palmer (love the name). he worshiped her! he treated her right! i love that! it shows that there are good guys out there who knows how to treat women. also the way her treated the kids in her cheer group! heart was swooned!
i understand Palmer. her thoughts on her body image. i cried with her, laughed with her, hyped her up (or at least i like to think i did).
the only thing i would have liked is more about the cheer group at the end. did someone tell them what happened with Bailey and why Palmer was out for so long? why didn’t Chase and Lindy come back to the hospital to visit once Bailey woke up? things like that.
overall, a great book!
Thank you to author Blake Morgan for giving me an opportunity to (ARC) read it!
4 stars
3-4 spice rating
there was some times when i wanted the book to be finished. i found that it did kinda drag on in some parts.
BUTTTT
it was a really good read!
i absolutely LOVE how Bailey treated Palmer (love the name). he worshiped her! he treated her right! i love that! it shows that there are good guys out there who knows how to treat women. also the way her treated the kids in her cheer group! heart was swooned!
i understand Palmer. her thoughts on her body image. i cried with her, laughed with her, hyped her up (or at least i like to think i did).
the only thing i would have liked is more about the cheer group at the end. did someone tell them what happened with Bailey and why Palmer was out for so long? why didn’t Chase and Lindy come back to the hospital to visit once Bailey woke up? things like that.
overall, a great book!
Thank you to author Blake Morgan for giving me an opportunity to (ARC) read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book! I saw the ARC form for this book, upon reading the synopsis I immediately signed up! Waited 2 LONG weeks for ARC day (it was hard, I literally counted the days)..
To begin, I was interested in reading this book because I loved all of the representation. As a plus size queen, reading books that remind me that I deserve love is a must. This book started at a 5 and NEVER left that spot. The pacing, the banter..GOLDEN. I love some build up and tension and this book definitely delivered. The author did an amazing job building the characters and MOUSE? I love her. ❤️ 😭 Seeing the FMC and MMC grow as people and in their relationship over time was so refreshing. This book genuinely had me kicking my feet and feeling butterflies, I also enjoyed how the characters lives outside of the romance was shown, the story felt whole. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one.
To begin, I was interested in reading this book because I loved all of the representation. As a plus size queen, reading books that remind me that I deserve love is a must. This book started at a 5 and NEVER left that spot. The pacing, the banter..GOLDEN. I love some build up and tension and this book definitely delivered. The author did an amazing job building the characters and MOUSE? I love her. ❤️ 😭 Seeing the FMC and MMC grow as people and in their relationship over time was so refreshing. This book genuinely had me kicking my feet and feeling butterflies, I also enjoyed how the characters lives outside of the romance was shown, the story felt whole. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a sweet love story! This book had everything I love; realistic and flawed characters, deep emotions and a true love for one another.
Bailey is pretty close to my idea of a perfect man. The way he sees Palmer and who she is and loves all of it, goes above and beyond to show her how he feels and gets involved in her life.
Palmer feels like a self reflection, self-conscious but flirtatious, plus sized and loving life, and so caring, kind and loving.
The fact that they both love animals and have true friends, along with everything else I loved about this book made it okay that it had one of the tropes I like the least. I'm curious to see where their story goes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Bailey is pretty close to my idea of a perfect man. The way he sees Palmer and who she is and loves all of it, goes above and beyond to show her how he feels and gets involved in her life.
Palmer feels like a self reflection, self-conscious but flirtatious, plus sized and loving life, and so caring, kind and loving.
The fact that they both love animals and have true friends, along with everything else I loved about this book made it okay that it had one of the tropes I like the least. I'm curious to see where their story goes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished reading my copy of Just a Phase and OMG! I loved this story and would give it 4.5 out of 5 stars! An FMC who has been treated like crap from her last relationship and a military MMC who doesn't tolerate the shit that her ex put her through and heals the heart he didn't break. UGGHH, I loved that!
The only reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars was that I was hoping for more details about what happens at the end of the book (I don't want to spoil the thing lol). There is a time jump that I felt like jumped past some key details that would've made things feel more connected, BUT it does say it's book 1, so MAYBE those details will come up in the next book 👀 I really hope I get to read more of Palmer, Mouse, and Bailey's story! 😍🥰
The only reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars was that I was hoping for more details about what happens at the end of the book (I don't want to spoil the thing lol). There is a time jump that I felt like jumped past some key details that would've made things feel more connected, BUT it does say it's book 1, so MAYBE those details will come up in the next book 👀 I really hope I get to read more of Palmer, Mouse, and Bailey's story! 😍🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm rating this as a 4.5
I liked this one more than I thought I would. It was such a sweet read!
I just love how Bailey was with Palmer, he literally treated her like the queen she was. She was so deserving of his praise after how the worst character ever treated her, that being Clay.
Bailey also deserved happiness, even if he didn't know what that meant.
They say things happen for a reason and even though it's messed up, it was meant to work out how it did so he could have the dream with Palmer.
This was equally sweet and spicy but definitely worth the read. I enjoyed the epilogue, I love how their love story turned out, so sweet and they had everything they needed. ❤️
I liked this one more than I thought I would. It was such a sweet read!
I just love how Bailey was with Palmer, he literally treated her like the queen she was. She was so deserving of his praise after how the worst character ever treated her, that being Clay.
Bailey also deserved happiness, even if he didn't know what that meant.
They say things happen for a reason and even though it's messed up, it was meant to work out how it did so he could have the dream with Palmer.
This was equally sweet and spicy but definitely worth the read. I enjoyed the epilogue, I love how their love story turned out, so sweet and they had everything they needed. ❤️
May 17, 2026
**ARC Review** I ate this book up, down and sideways! Palmer was such a relatable and lovable FMC and Bailey should literally be the blueprint for all other men the way he loves Palmer. I found myself having all the emotions with this book and I hope you do too, you get mad at Clay and find yourself relating to shitty exs you have and the way Palmer is doubting herself because of the way Clay treated her all for big ol bad Bailey shows up and takes two seconds to show her what a real man is! Definitely one of my favorite reads this year had me staying up wayyyyy too late to finish it and crying my eyes out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cute, funny, and a bit emotional. This book touches on some heavier topics: military injury, special needs students, mental health, and body image issues, among a few, but balances them with a humor and heart.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️✨
I loved the way Palmer is learning to take charge of her life and how supportive Bailey is while she figures things out. Their relationship was genuinely sweet to read.
Honestly, this book was well written, fun to read, and hard to put down.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️✨
I loved the way Palmer is learning to take charge of her life and how supportive Bailey is while she figures things out. Their relationship was genuinely sweet to read.
Honestly, this book was well written, fun to read, and hard to put down.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!
May 18, 2026
ADVANCED READER COPY
WOW…
This book makes you feel every single emotion while P is being stubborn. Sad? Yup, felt it. Happy? Yup, felt it. Crying happy tears and SAD tears? Yup, been there, done that. Mad? Yup, that one too. Confused and frustrated? Yup, it’s there too.
Palmer and Bailey’s story is just fan-freaking-tastic.
You go from wanting to beat the heck out of Clay, to then wanting to yell at Palmer for not realizing she loves Bailey and then crying because of Bailey.
This book is fantastic. It’s wonderful. Amazing. Sad and happy😭😭
WOW…
This book makes you feel every single emotion while P is being stubborn. Sad? Yup, felt it. Happy? Yup, felt it. Crying happy tears and SAD tears? Yup, been there, done that. Mad? Yup, that one too. Confused and frustrated? Yup, it’s there too.
Palmer and Bailey’s story is just fan-freaking-tastic.
You go from wanting to beat the heck out of Clay, to then wanting to yell at Palmer for not realizing she loves Bailey and then crying because of Bailey.
This book is fantastic. It’s wonderful. Amazing. Sad and happy😭😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly could not stop reading once I started… finished it in one sitting
The chemistry between Palmer and Bailey was written so well, and I loved watching their relationship grow.
There was the perfect mix of love, humor, emotion, and some very spicy scenes that added so much to the story without taking away from the plot.
This book took me on a emotional ride. I laughed, got mad, and definitely cried. I even yelled “tell him” at one point LOL
Thank you to that Author for this ARC
The chemistry between Palmer and Bailey was written so well, and I loved watching their relationship grow.
There was the perfect mix of love, humor, emotion, and some very spicy scenes that added so much to the story without taking away from the plot.
This book took me on a emotional ride. I laughed, got mad, and definitely cried. I even yelled “tell him” at one point LOL
Thank you to that Author for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really liked this book - it was a sweet romance plot with a FMC who had been put through the ringer by her ex. I liked Bailey (who doesn’t like a man in uniform). Also had a good amount of spice 🌶️ Would have liked to have seen more of his friend group and hers - but I guess they were the main characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book so much!! It had me yearning for more, I have laughed and cried and wanted more. I was able to relate to these characters in more ways than one and I loved it! It’s a must read for women who love romance and spice as well as those who think they don’t deserve everything they actually do. I will read this over and over again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC, and at first I wasn’t totally sure how I felt about it. But once Palmer and Bailey got together? I was completely invested in their relationship. I also loved seeing a plus-size FMC in her thirties — it made Bailey feel so much more relatable and easy to connect with. And lastly… Clay absolutely sucks 😭
Review of advance copy
Thanks so much to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book! I absolutely ate it up. We have plus size representation, a short king that’s in the military, praise k*nk, and two adult characters who know how to talk to each other which was a breath of fresh air! I will absolutely be recommending to others!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a good read! The pacing was perfect, the story was gripping, not too much information where you would start to get bored waiting for the next great thing. It was short and sweet and I may be just as in love with Bailey and Palmer as they are each other! A super special thank you to Blake Morgan for gifting me this arc.
May 18, 2026
I didn’t think I was going to be too interested in this book, it took me a hot minute to get invested. But once I did, it did NOT disappoint. Spice? Top notch. Thrill? Lots. TEARS? YA.
When Palmer sees Bailey awake it nearly took me out. I just laid here crying in bed. So so so good. Would recommend to anyone!!
Thank you for the ARC copy!
When Palmer sees Bailey awake it nearly took me out. I just laid here crying in bed. So so so good. Would recommend to anyone!!
Thank you for the ARC copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Just a Phase was such a cute, fun, fast read. And I actually really liked the story wish it was a little longer though! I couldn’t believe everything she went through. You honestly have to read it to get it... definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a funny heartwarming story 💕, I was giggling and laughing but some parts had me in tears 😢.
Good amount of spice 🌶️, loved the chemistry between the FMC and MMC
Highly recommend, absolutely loved this book 🥰
Good amount of spice 🌶️, loved the chemistry between the FMC and MMC
Highly recommend, absolutely loved this book 🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited to get this as an ARC!
It is funny and heartwarming!
Overall an awesome read! Palmer and Bailey’s love story is so 🥰🥰
It is funny and heartwarming!
Overall an awesome read! Palmer and Bailey’s love story is so 🥰🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was great!! A nice light read with some emotional elements. Mouse may be my favorite character, but both human main characters are amazing and their journey together is beautiful.
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