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If Only.... #3
I Do
A new adult romance from Entangled's Embrace imprint...
Sometimes you have to trust your heart to find out what home really means.
Duncan McAllister is marrying Elaina Tripoli tomorrow. Except—he's missing. Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, and Miles arrive in Greece for the festivities to find frantic messages from both the bride and groom. Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan while Jordan, Maggie, and Miles try to salvage what should be a day of celebration before the wedding.
But the Americans have their own baggage. Noah's got a surprise planned for Jordan that has to go perfectly. Griffin's keeping life-changing news from Maggie. And Miles—well, he wasn't looking for love on this trip until a Greek sous chef named Alex rocks his world.
The race is on for Duncan to make it back to Elaina before she decides not to take him back at all. For Noah to make sure his monumental plan goes off without a hitch. For Griffin to tell Maggie the truth without losing her. For Miles to admit that letting himself fall in love is worth the risk.
Happily Ever After waits at the finish line…if the four couples can make it on time.
Sometimes you have to trust your heart to find out what home really means.
Duncan McAllister is marrying Elaina Tripoli tomorrow. Except—he's missing. Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, and Miles arrive in Greece for the festivities to find frantic messages from both the bride and groom. Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan while Jordan, Maggie, and Miles try to salvage what should be a day of celebration before the wedding.
But the Americans have their own baggage. Noah's got a surprise planned for Jordan that has to go perfectly. Griffin's keeping life-changing news from Maggie. And Miles—well, he wasn't looking for love on this trip until a Greek sous chef named Alex rocks his world.
The race is on for Duncan to make it back to Elaina before she decides not to take him back at all. For Noah to make sure his monumental plan goes off without a hitch. For Griffin to tell Maggie the truth without losing her. For Miles to admit that letting himself fall in love is worth the risk.
Happily Ever After waits at the finish line…if the four couples can make it on time.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2015
6 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Pine
29 books890 followersA teen librarian by day and a romance writer by night, A.J. Pine can’t seem to escape the world of fiction, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s the author of the If Only series (Entangled Embrace), the Only You series (Berkley/Intermix), the Kingston Ale House series (Entangled Select), and the Crossroads Ranch series (Forever Romance). When she finds that 25th hour in the day, she might indulge in a tiny bit of TV where she nourishes her undying love of vampires, superheroes, and a certain high-functioning sociopath detective. She hails from the far off galaxy of the Chicago suburbs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 10, 2015
This was such a sweet book! Told in 7 different POV's, each character has a connected story. I did not read the first book in this series but I read the second (and loved it) but I did not feel lost at all while reading this - it can totally be read as a standalone. Still, I would suggest What I really enjoyed about this book was that it wasn't something filled with a bunch of silly drama or couples breaking up. Most of the couples were already established but had things pop up in their relationships that they have to work through, I loved that this wasn't angsty, just a cute, sweet romance. I loved all the couples in this book and I loved the epilogue. I think the characters all getting their own POV made this a really fast-paced book. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more by this author!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
November 19, 2015
5+ stars
So many happy feels after reading I DO.
I DO ticked all the boxes for me, once I started reading I couldn't put it down!
Loved all the POV's, I know some readers don't enjoy the change from one POV to another but I loved it. It was like a few different storylines were going on at the same time but it all came together beautifully.
After I finished I couldn't stop smiling, loved how this series came to a close.
I'm going to miss all of the guys, especially Maggie and Griffin, love those two =)
A.J.Pine is a talented author who's done a brilliant job writing a heartfelt & sweet romance.
All the books in the If Only... series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1640... can be read on their own but I highly recommend them all.
You too will fall in love with these wonderful, memorable characters.
Thank you to Entangled Embrace via NetGalley for the advance copy.
So many happy feels after reading I DO.
I DO ticked all the boxes for me, once I started reading I couldn't put it down!
Loved all the POV's, I know some readers don't enjoy the change from one POV to another but I loved it. It was like a few different storylines were going on at the same time but it all came together beautifully.
After I finished I couldn't stop smiling, loved how this series came to a close.
I'm going to miss all of the guys, especially Maggie and Griffin, love those two =)
A.J.Pine is a talented author who's done a brilliant job writing a heartfelt & sweet romance.
All the books in the If Only... series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1640... can be read on their own but I highly recommend them all.
You too will fall in love with these wonderful, memorable characters.
Thank you to Entangled Embrace via NetGalley for the advance copy.
November 14, 2015
I Do by A.J. Pine is a 2015 Entangled: Embrace publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
These days if I run for the hills if someone mentions 'New Adult', and I admit I didn't realize this book fell into that category when I requested it from Netgalley.
However, this one turned out to be a pretty enjoyable read filled with unexpected humor and some very nice romantic gestures between established couples going through some of life's ups and downs as best they can.
As friends of Duncan and Elaina prepare for their wedding in Greece, trouble begins to brew when the groom goes missing making his fiance fear the worse. But, Noah and Griffin go in search of the groom, believing he didn't have a change of heart, but could be in some sort of trouble. In the meantime, the other couples are going through some life changes of their own and will have to learn to work together to keep their relationships balanced and healthy.
The trademark for New Adult is the various first person perspectives and this story was no exception, which means each character got a voice, which is great, but, because there were so many characters, it could be a little much at times, since this book is not all that long. It was like everyone was talking at once sometimes.
But, overall, what won me over was the humor, the very real problems the characters faced, and how the characters learned to approach their issues with maturity. Elaina is a little bit of a tough nut to crack, but I thought she and Duncan did great, plus I loved his Scottish brogue.
There are sweet and sentimental moments, some character growth, and sexy times too, with a little something for everyone. I think some contemporary romance lovers will enjoy this one too, since it's so charming and fun and the angst isn't over the top and the plot is refreshingly mature for New Adult.
3.5 stars
These days if I run for the hills if someone mentions 'New Adult', and I admit I didn't realize this book fell into that category when I requested it from Netgalley.
However, this one turned out to be a pretty enjoyable read filled with unexpected humor and some very nice romantic gestures between established couples going through some of life's ups and downs as best they can.
As friends of Duncan and Elaina prepare for their wedding in Greece, trouble begins to brew when the groom goes missing making his fiance fear the worse. But, Noah and Griffin go in search of the groom, believing he didn't have a change of heart, but could be in some sort of trouble. In the meantime, the other couples are going through some life changes of their own and will have to learn to work together to keep their relationships balanced and healthy.
The trademark for New Adult is the various first person perspectives and this story was no exception, which means each character got a voice, which is great, but, because there were so many characters, it could be a little much at times, since this book is not all that long. It was like everyone was talking at once sometimes.
But, overall, what won me over was the humor, the very real problems the characters faced, and how the characters learned to approach their issues with maturity. Elaina is a little bit of a tough nut to crack, but I thought she and Duncan did great, plus I loved his Scottish brogue.
There are sweet and sentimental moments, some character growth, and sexy times too, with a little something for everyone. I think some contemporary romance lovers will enjoy this one too, since it's so charming and fun and the angst isn't over the top and the plot is refreshingly mature for New Adult.
3.5 stars
November 16, 2015
Loved, loved, loved this book! This series has been wonderful and this was just the perfect ending. I had a big smile on my face when I finished it. When it showed up on my e-reader late in the evening (pre-order), I planned on reading a few chapters before bed, but I couldn't put it down and ended up reading it all. So good! I loved getting more of the past characters and a new relationship for one of the side characters from "What If" (If Only #2). I highly recommend this series from one of my auto-buy authors.
November 16, 2015
For more reviews check out my blog Maf's Crazy Book Life
First reaction: There aren't enough words for me to describe how much I freaking loved this book. It was so perfect, I cried and laughed and cried some more (but happy tears) and I'm just really in love with this book and AJ's wonderful characters.
Is there anything better than happy endings? I used to think no, but A.J. has proved that there is, what happens after the happy ending makes for an amazing, entertaining, emotional story that I still can't get out of my head.
This is the last book in a wonderful series, where we get to see 7 wonderful characters travel to Greece to attend one of the most terrifying but amazing events in adulthood, a wedding.
This is the perfect book to show what happens after the happily ever after, when life is still happening to the characters, every single one of these characters learns something in this book, they all have an adventure that I felt solidified the fact that they aren't New Adults anymore, they are adults-adults, and that being and adult-adult is nothing like what we imagine it's going to be.
"The way I see it, is that we're all fucking clueless. There's no rule book or manual for any of this. Best we can do is make up for the times we mess up by getting the big things right."
One of my favourite things about A.J's books is that they always feel like a my feelings got in a roller coaster and she starts twisting my emotions from the very first page until the last word, in I Do I got to revisit 3 of my favourite couples and reading about what they have been up to since they got their happy ending made me insanely happy. We get to see how they are starting to build their lives as actual adults and I have always been fascinated by that transition, that moment when you don't really have school to fall back on anymore and this book showed all the fears of that transition along with all the amazing emotions that come along with it.
"But the one thing I got right was not letting you get away. Thank you for not giving up on me."
As any millennial, I am terrified of adulthood, but books like this make me not feel so terrified, it's amazing reading about how a happily ever after is something couples have to constantly work on, this book felt very real in that sense, because all of these wonderful couples are facing real life challenges, they are growing up and because of that their relationships are inevitably going to change, but the fact that they want to keep working on them, the fact that they want to love each other through it all, I think that's what makes a real love story fascinating, it's not the fact that we all just assume they characters get their happy ending and that's that, it's the fact that you know that not matter what life (or the author) throws at them, they will stay together because they have developed into characters who if they were people in real life, would know that love takes hard work.
"I know our lives are crazy right now, but I also know we'll get through it. Because we're us."
I'm going to miss these characters immensely, but I know for a fact that wherever it is fictional characters go to keep on living their happily ever after, Maggie, Griffin, Noah, Jordan, Duncan, Elaina, Miles and Alex are happily settled.
First reaction: There aren't enough words for me to describe how much I freaking loved this book. It was so perfect, I cried and laughed and cried some more (but happy tears) and I'm just really in love with this book and AJ's wonderful characters.
Is there anything better than happy endings? I used to think no, but A.J. has proved that there is, what happens after the happy ending makes for an amazing, entertaining, emotional story that I still can't get out of my head.
This is the last book in a wonderful series, where we get to see 7 wonderful characters travel to Greece to attend one of the most terrifying but amazing events in adulthood, a wedding.
This is the perfect book to show what happens after the happily ever after, when life is still happening to the characters, every single one of these characters learns something in this book, they all have an adventure that I felt solidified the fact that they aren't New Adults anymore, they are adults-adults, and that being and adult-adult is nothing like what we imagine it's going to be.
"The way I see it, is that we're all fucking clueless. There's no rule book or manual for any of this. Best we can do is make up for the times we mess up by getting the big things right."
One of my favourite things about A.J's books is that they always feel like a my feelings got in a roller coaster and she starts twisting my emotions from the very first page until the last word, in I Do I got to revisit 3 of my favourite couples and reading about what they have been up to since they got their happy ending made me insanely happy. We get to see how they are starting to build their lives as actual adults and I have always been fascinated by that transition, that moment when you don't really have school to fall back on anymore and this book showed all the fears of that transition along with all the amazing emotions that come along with it.
"But the one thing I got right was not letting you get away. Thank you for not giving up on me."
As any millennial, I am terrified of adulthood, but books like this make me not feel so terrified, it's amazing reading about how a happily ever after is something couples have to constantly work on, this book felt very real in that sense, because all of these wonderful couples are facing real life challenges, they are growing up and because of that their relationships are inevitably going to change, but the fact that they want to keep working on them, the fact that they want to love each other through it all, I think that's what makes a real love story fascinating, it's not the fact that we all just assume they characters get their happy ending and that's that, it's the fact that you know that not matter what life (or the author) throws at them, they will stay together because they have developed into characters who if they were people in real life, would know that love takes hard work.
"I know our lives are crazy right now, but I also know we'll get through it. Because we're us."
I'm going to miss these characters immensely, but I know for a fact that wherever it is fictional characters go to keep on living their happily ever after, Maggie, Griffin, Noah, Jordan, Duncan, Elaina, Miles and Alex are happily settled.
Read
November 16, 2015I Do is here! I'm so excited for you to read this book, the third installment in my If Only series. While all books read as stand alones, those of you that have been waiting for more Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, Elaina, Duncan, and even Miles will be happy to know they ALL have stories in this book. I call this my Game of Thrones style romance...FOUR story lines, SEVEN points of view...but NO ONE DIES. Promise! Just lots of laughs and swoons and feels.
November 15, 2015
Full Review to come.
Oh AJ Pine, you did it to me again. It was great to see these characters again and in such a fun and fabulous story.
I Do brings us back to the characters we know and LOVE from If Only and What If and introduces us to some new ones. In a sense, this book was bittersweet to read, because this book felt like saying goodbye to some of your favorite friends. . Sending some much loved characters on their way to the future. Also this book featured a Scottish guy who's supposed to be getting Married, which means KILTS -- and that's all I really have to say about that because Kilts!
Anyone who has read the previous books would be saying Of course Elaina an Duncan's wedding couldn't go of without a problem or three. That would not have suited them at all. From the synopsis you note that the Groom is missing right before the wedding, the question is where is he and will he make it to Greece on time? And if he does arrive for the wedding, will there be a Bride waiting?
In addition to their part in the wedding, and hooking back up with Griffin (and Maggie) Jordan and Noah have their own issues once they reach Greece. I love how Noah was true to his literary romantic self and how super worried he was about screwing things all up.
It's no lie, that I love Maggie and Griffin, they have really gone through the wringer of life. It's hard to believe in certain things when you are walking around always leery of whats to come, what could happen. That doesn't change while in Greece. But these two have their own misunderstanding and worries to talk about and overcome in addition to the worries over the wedding.
Simply Put, I ADORE Miles. It was really exciting for me to see him really get in there in the story and live life. Alex is deep, so much more to him that what I expected up on first meeting him on the plane. Miles is struggling with who he is and how others see him because of it. It's difficult for him to really put himself out there, so she sort of self-sabotages himself. It was amazing to see Miles become a bigger part of the group and also to see him find some happiness.
I Love that each couple had their misunderstandings and things to work through, but each was able to do so and work things out and come together as a whole unit of friends to celebrate Love. I Do was simply a beautiful collaborative work of four unique love stories brought into one grander story. The beautiful Greece setting, the Kilts, the Love, and all the little moments truly felt like I was a part of the festivities and hanging out with good friends.
AJ Pine wraps things up nicely with the epilogue which left me feeling satisfied, but also wishing that there would be future stories with this great group of friends. I love how she used each character's secrets, be they a real secret or hiding their true nature from even themselves, to lead them to have to make up for doing something some would consider stupid. Though each of the guys found themselves in the dog house in one way or another, one thing was palpable through it all, they were in it to win it and would fix the problem and find their ways back into their love's heart.
I Do will make you laugh at the antics, make you cringe at some of the bad ways things are worded, make you swoon when the girls right their wrongs, and make you want to give everyone a giant group hug just for getting it together. This book is filled with beautiful moments and full of romance, a perfect send off to Elaina, Duncan, Jordan, Noah, Maggie, Griffin, Miles and Alex.
Oh AJ Pine, you did it to me again. It was great to see these characters again and in such a fun and fabulous story.
I Do brings us back to the characters we know and LOVE from If Only and What If and introduces us to some new ones. In a sense, this book was bittersweet to read, because this book felt like saying goodbye to some of your favorite friends. . Sending some much loved characters on their way to the future. Also this book featured a Scottish guy who's supposed to be getting Married, which means KILTS -- and that's all I really have to say about that because Kilts!
Anyone who has read the previous books would be saying Of course Elaina an Duncan's wedding couldn't go of without a problem or three. That would not have suited them at all. From the synopsis you note that the Groom is missing right before the wedding, the question is where is he and will he make it to Greece on time? And if he does arrive for the wedding, will there be a Bride waiting?
In addition to their part in the wedding, and hooking back up with Griffin (and Maggie) Jordan and Noah have their own issues once they reach Greece. I love how Noah was true to his literary romantic self and how super worried he was about screwing things all up.
It's no lie, that I love Maggie and Griffin, they have really gone through the wringer of life. It's hard to believe in certain things when you are walking around always leery of whats to come, what could happen. That doesn't change while in Greece. But these two have their own misunderstanding and worries to talk about and overcome in addition to the worries over the wedding.
Simply Put, I ADORE Miles. It was really exciting for me to see him really get in there in the story and live life. Alex is deep, so much more to him that what I expected up on first meeting him on the plane. Miles is struggling with who he is and how others see him because of it. It's difficult for him to really put himself out there, so she sort of self-sabotages himself. It was amazing to see Miles become a bigger part of the group and also to see him find some happiness.
I Love that each couple had their misunderstandings and things to work through, but each was able to do so and work things out and come together as a whole unit of friends to celebrate Love. I Do was simply a beautiful collaborative work of four unique love stories brought into one grander story. The beautiful Greece setting, the Kilts, the Love, and all the little moments truly felt like I was a part of the festivities and hanging out with good friends.
AJ Pine wraps things up nicely with the epilogue which left me feeling satisfied, but also wishing that there would be future stories with this great group of friends. I love how she used each character's secrets, be they a real secret or hiding their true nature from even themselves, to lead them to have to make up for doing something some would consider stupid. Though each of the guys found themselves in the dog house in one way or another, one thing was palpable through it all, they were in it to win it and would fix the problem and find their ways back into their love's heart.
I Do will make you laugh at the antics, make you cringe at some of the bad ways things are worded, make you swoon when the girls right their wrongs, and make you want to give everyone a giant group hug just for getting it together. This book is filled with beautiful moments and full of romance, a perfect send off to Elaina, Duncan, Jordan, Noah, Maggie, Griffin, Miles and Alex.
March 1, 2016
*You can also find my review at The Book Voyagers and there's a giveaway going on right now!
I'm not sure how A.J. Pine does it, but I'm guessing there's some magical unicorn rainbows involved.
There is a lot of LOVE for this series from my part. Since the first book, AJ had my heart and she didn't give it back until this very moment. There's a lot of downs but there will always be ups after that, that's what I love most about her books. Plus her characters are just so real and down-to-earth and perfect for each other.
This book only reminded me how much I adored (and how much addicted I am) reading her books. It just makes my day and makes me undeniably happy. She drowns you with too many emotions but it is the best feeling in the world. The characters you love come back in I Do and all of them are in Greece (!!!) for a wedding. It's filled with all sorts of mishappens and misunderstandings, but with it it comes the joyful moments and the mistakes that turn into great things.
AJ Pine shows us that humans are not perfect and mistakes are made once in a while, and that it is okay to make them because at the end something good might come out of it. You never know if you don't take the chance.
I still can't believe this is the end for one of my favorite series. I want to keep thinking in months to come we'll have another If Only book BUT NOPE. My heart jumped around every time I started a book about these couples. I'm so happy I Do has 4- YES, FOUR COUPLES IN ONE BOOK. We get to see so many characters back and it feels me with joy! Noah and Jordan are b a c k. And *eeep* exciting stuff happens to them!
And holy frigging potatoes - THANK YOU A.J. PINE. For bringing Griffin and Maggie back for their last goodbye. I got so emotional when I started reading from their POV, I cried. I definitely cried. (It always happens when those two are involved, I'm sorry). I fell head over heels in love when I read What If and now, now it's more epic than ever. There's many surprises for every single couple so all the fun and excitement this book will bring you won't stop until the last chapter!
The whole gang go to Greece for Elaina and Duncan's wedding (dayum!) and so many funny/cute/accidental/OMG things happen I tell you guys. We meet new characters (!!! cough one Mr. Alex). And it gets better and betters with each chapter. A.J. always brings down the roof with these books and I'm forever in love with how amazing this cast of characters is and their stories.
If you love and missed these characters, I DO is perfect for you - it's a breezy read that you enjoy from the very beginning until the last page. And if you haven't read any of these books on this series, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR.
I'm not sure how A.J. Pine does it, but I'm guessing there's some magical unicorn rainbows involved.
There is a lot of LOVE for this series from my part. Since the first book, AJ had my heart and she didn't give it back until this very moment. There's a lot of downs but there will always be ups after that, that's what I love most about her books. Plus her characters are just so real and down-to-earth and perfect for each other.
This book only reminded me how much I adored (and how much addicted I am) reading her books. It just makes my day and makes me undeniably happy. She drowns you with too many emotions but it is the best feeling in the world. The characters you love come back in I Do and all of them are in Greece (!!!) for a wedding. It's filled with all sorts of mishappens and misunderstandings, but with it it comes the joyful moments and the mistakes that turn into great things.
AJ Pine shows us that humans are not perfect and mistakes are made once in a while, and that it is okay to make them because at the end something good might come out of it. You never know if you don't take the chance.
I still can't believe this is the end for one of my favorite series. I want to keep thinking in months to come we'll have another If Only book BUT NOPE. My heart jumped around every time I started a book about these couples. I'm so happy I Do has 4- YES, FOUR COUPLES IN ONE BOOK. We get to see so many characters back and it feels me with joy! Noah and Jordan are b a c k. And *eeep* exciting stuff happens to them!
And holy frigging potatoes - THANK YOU A.J. PINE. For bringing Griffin and Maggie back for their last goodbye. I got so emotional when I started reading from their POV, I cried. I definitely cried. (It always happens when those two are involved, I'm sorry). I fell head over heels in love when I read What If and now, now it's more epic than ever. There's many surprises for every single couple so all the fun and excitement this book will bring you won't stop until the last chapter!
The whole gang go to Greece for Elaina and Duncan's wedding (dayum!) and so many funny/cute/accidental/OMG things happen I tell you guys. We meet new characters (!!! cough one Mr. Alex). And it gets better and betters with each chapter. A.J. always brings down the roof with these books and I'm forever in love with how amazing this cast of characters is and their stories.
If you love and missed these characters, I DO is perfect for you - it's a breezy read that you enjoy from the very beginning until the last page. And if you haven't read any of these books on this series, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR.
November 26, 2015
This was such a fun read and a perfect way to end this series! I’m just going to keep this review short and sweet and say if you loved The Only Series, you will certainly love and appreciate this story. I Do is centered around Duncan and Elaina’s wedding in Greece. All of our friends and favorite characters are reunited to celebrate this occasion. Of course, everything that can happen and that could possibly go wrong does and all you can do is sit back and enjoy the ride.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It really reminded me of why I loved all these characters. I loved all the multiple points of view. This is one situation where the multiple points of view have really paid off. It was great catching up with everyone again and seeing how their lives have changed since their stories ended. I loved all the angst, drama and romance. There was never a dull moment and in the end, I was left with the biggest smile on my face!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It really reminded me of why I loved all these characters. I loved all the multiple points of view. This is one situation where the multiple points of view have really paid off. It was great catching up with everyone again and seeing how their lives have changed since their stories ended. I loved all the angst, drama and romance. There was never a dull moment and in the end, I was left with the biggest smile on my face!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
November 7, 2015
I can't even begin to say how much I LOVED this book!! Revisiting all the couples from the series and seeing Miles get his HEA was the perfect ending to the series. Seeing where each character was in his/her life, the small troubles each faced, and applauding how love and commitment got each one through made this one of the most enjoyable books I've read in a while. Written in seven different POV's seems like it would be hard to keep up with but it wasn't at all. The characters are all so entwined throughout the series, going from one to the other was the perfect way to write this one.
I highly recommend this one! You could read this standalone but don't cheat yourself. Read the other two books in the series then read this wrap up. You'll enjoy it so much more.
I highly recommend this one! You could read this standalone but don't cheat yourself. Read the other two books in the series then read this wrap up. You'll enjoy it so much more.
October 14, 2015
It's no surprise I love this book. My quote is on the cover. AJ's writing is effortless as always and I was so so happy to revisit all my favorite couples of hers. This book has several POVs yet it never felt crowded and muddied. This is truly a special book and I was honored to get a chance to read it early. This whol series is a must read. :)
November 20, 2015
My favorite out of all three books in the series -- it was the perfect combination of humor, romance, sweetness and angst. Great characters, great story, great big stupid grin on my face.
Loved.
Loved.
November 16, 2015
This third story in the If Only series is a wonderful conclusion to the romances begun in the first two books (which are standalones and had happy and satisfying endings on their own). If you haven't read those two prior to this one, there is still a good introduction to the couples of interest and one new romance to add to the mix. It's rare to have a romance with more than 3 or 4 points of view, and in this one we get seven! Though you might think that would make for a more complicated reading, the points of view were clearly marked and definitely made for a richer experience. Reading this book also made me think of the movie Four Weddings and a Funeral (without the funeral part), with its general madcap antics and proper Scotsmen (wink wink). I loved that movie, and I loved this story equally.
The central focus of the story is Duncan and Elaina's wedding. Having been introduced to these two in the first book in the series as secondary characters, their romance was just getting underway and it was wonderful to get to see things as they take the plunge into committing to spending their lives together, and for Duncan, moving away from his Scottish home to live with Elaina in Greece. They made for such an interesting couple, definitely a case of opposites attract, but a most delightful one. Duncan has always come across as a very down to earth, friendly man with a big heart. He lives hard and he loves hard, making mistakes along the way. His decisions have consequences though, and I enjoyed seeing him and Elaina work through them before their big day.
For Noah and Jordan who've been living together happily for the past three years, it's a chance to reconnect with their old friends and consider making things more permanent between them. As the couple who started the series off, I loved seeing them together and finding that they are still wholly committed to each other. Griffin and Maggie are the newer couple, Griffin having dated Jordan briefly before she ended up with Noah, and now having found Maggie. Maggie has some unique health problems, and these have resulted in Griffin being overprotective of her, to the point that they still have communication problems in their relationship. They had some issues to deal with on this trip to the wedding, but it was a good example of the work that's involved in a relationship once the initial starry eyed romance has settled down.
The new romance in this one is with a favourite secondary character from Maggie and Griffin's book, Maggie's best friend Miles. He's been invited along to the wedding, to be there for Maggie in case she needs any assistance as Griffin is part of the wedding party. On the plane, Miles meets a gentleman with whom he shares an instant attraction - and who by luck or fate, ends up being a chef at Elaina's family restaurant. Miles is such a fun character but more of a playboy than a man of commitment. A vacation fling is something he's pretty comfortable with - only he discovers as he spends time with Alex that maybe, this time, he'd be willing to commit to more. I loved seeing him find someone willing to challenge him and keep him on his toes.
With all of these couples we get some sexy scenes, lots of humour (including some airplane shenanigans) a wonderful sense of their friendships and I thought this was a fitting end to the series. I'm going to miss them. 4.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
The central focus of the story is Duncan and Elaina's wedding. Having been introduced to these two in the first book in the series as secondary characters, their romance was just getting underway and it was wonderful to get to see things as they take the plunge into committing to spending their lives together, and for Duncan, moving away from his Scottish home to live with Elaina in Greece. They made for such an interesting couple, definitely a case of opposites attract, but a most delightful one. Duncan has always come across as a very down to earth, friendly man with a big heart. He lives hard and he loves hard, making mistakes along the way. His decisions have consequences though, and I enjoyed seeing him and Elaina work through them before their big day.
For Noah and Jordan who've been living together happily for the past three years, it's a chance to reconnect with their old friends and consider making things more permanent between them. As the couple who started the series off, I loved seeing them together and finding that they are still wholly committed to each other. Griffin and Maggie are the newer couple, Griffin having dated Jordan briefly before she ended up with Noah, and now having found Maggie. Maggie has some unique health problems, and these have resulted in Griffin being overprotective of her, to the point that they still have communication problems in their relationship. They had some issues to deal with on this trip to the wedding, but it was a good example of the work that's involved in a relationship once the initial starry eyed romance has settled down.
The new romance in this one is with a favourite secondary character from Maggie and Griffin's book, Maggie's best friend Miles. He's been invited along to the wedding, to be there for Maggie in case she needs any assistance as Griffin is part of the wedding party. On the plane, Miles meets a gentleman with whom he shares an instant attraction - and who by luck or fate, ends up being a chef at Elaina's family restaurant. Miles is such a fun character but more of a playboy than a man of commitment. A vacation fling is something he's pretty comfortable with - only he discovers as he spends time with Alex that maybe, this time, he'd be willing to commit to more. I loved seeing him find someone willing to challenge him and keep him on his toes.
With all of these couples we get some sexy scenes, lots of humour (including some airplane shenanigans) a wonderful sense of their friendships and I thought this was a fitting end to the series. I'm going to miss them. 4.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
November 16, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Another beloved series is coming to an end, but if there was an ideal way to bring author A.J. Pine's If Only... series to a close, this was the way to do it. I Do is the third and final book in what has become a series that has put my heart through the wringer three times over. Duncan McAllister and Elaina Tripoli are about to tie the knot with a wedding in Greece, but it looks like they, along with Noah Keating and Jordan Brooks, Griffin Reed and Maggie Kendall, and Miles Parker and new addition Alex Karas are about to unravel as assumptions are made and secrets are kept, leading to our cast of characters forced to confront their fears and hang-ups when it comes to love, commitment, and their respective relationships.
I adored how the love stories of the three couples fans of the series have grown familiar with have come full circle with this book. We've seen the ups and downs specifically that Noah and Jordan and Griffin and Maggie had to contend with in their respective stories, and Duncan and Elaina are definitely not immune from their own set of issues and insecurities. This book also shows that while we thought the first two couples got their happily-ever-afters in the first two books, life has gone on and hasn't been a bed of roses for either one. They still have their struggles and try to do their best when it comes to making their relationships work. It's a true reflection of real life because life does continue past that happily-ever-after.
Miles was a revelation in this story because the last time we saw him, he was in a relationship with Paige, Maggie's neighbor. He was an amazing friend to Maggie and was more than supportive of her in the second book, and while I was surprised that his thing with Paige ended, I was thrilled that he got his own chance at happiness here and that it was with Alex definitely gets bonus points because I'm always one for diversity in all forms. With everything this book had to offer, my sadness at seeing the series come to an end is tapered off by the fact that I got more than I was expecting with this conclusion. I grinned, I giggled, and I fell in love with these characters all over again. Read the full series, people. Five-plus stars for I Do. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Another beloved series is coming to an end, but if there was an ideal way to bring author A.J. Pine's If Only... series to a close, this was the way to do it. I Do is the third and final book in what has become a series that has put my heart through the wringer three times over. Duncan McAllister and Elaina Tripoli are about to tie the knot with a wedding in Greece, but it looks like they, along with Noah Keating and Jordan Brooks, Griffin Reed and Maggie Kendall, and Miles Parker and new addition Alex Karas are about to unravel as assumptions are made and secrets are kept, leading to our cast of characters forced to confront their fears and hang-ups when it comes to love, commitment, and their respective relationships.
I adored how the love stories of the three couples fans of the series have grown familiar with have come full circle with this book. We've seen the ups and downs specifically that Noah and Jordan and Griffin and Maggie had to contend with in their respective stories, and Duncan and Elaina are definitely not immune from their own set of issues and insecurities. This book also shows that while we thought the first two couples got their happily-ever-afters in the first two books, life has gone on and hasn't been a bed of roses for either one. They still have their struggles and try to do their best when it comes to making their relationships work. It's a true reflection of real life because life does continue past that happily-ever-after.
Miles was a revelation in this story because the last time we saw him, he was in a relationship with Paige, Maggie's neighbor. He was an amazing friend to Maggie and was more than supportive of her in the second book, and while I was surprised that his thing with Paige ended, I was thrilled that he got his own chance at happiness here and that it was with Alex definitely gets bonus points because I'm always one for diversity in all forms. With everything this book had to offer, my sadness at seeing the series come to an end is tapered off by the fact that I got more than I was expecting with this conclusion. I grinned, I giggled, and I fell in love with these characters all over again. Read the full series, people. Five-plus stars for I Do. ♥
November 16, 2015
Find this and other reviews at Ramblings of a Daydreamer.
I loved the first two books in AJ Pine’s If Only... series, If Only and What If. When I heard there was going to be another book in the series, I was ecstatic. I wanted to know what would happen to these couples I loved so much, plus I’d hoped for a story that involved Miles from the second book. I Do is a beautiful, fitting end to the series, and made me fall for these characters even more.
When I heard I Do was told from multiple points of view, I thought it would get confusing, but it was easy to keep up. Pine took something that could have been a mess and did a brilliant job with it. All the characters had such distinctive stories and personalities, I never got lost. It was actually the perfect way to tell the story, because we got to know the characters so well in the first two books, it was nice to be back inside their heads and see things from each perspective.
One of the things I loved most about this book (and Pine’s other books) was that things weren’t easy for the characters. In If Only and What If, we got to see Noah and Jordan, Griffin and Maggie, and Duncan and Elaina get their happily ever afters, but with I Do we see what comes after the happily ever after. Each couple was madly in love, but they still had struggles and fights and misunderstandings. It was wonderfully realistic, and it made me continue to root for them the way I did in the previous books. I absolutely loved Miles’s story; I adored him in What If, so to get him as a main character instead of a side character was great, and his story was beautiful (and sexy!).
Reading I Do was like being reunited with old friends. It was a perfect ending to a series I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. It was laugh-out-loud funny, romantic, sweet, and full of feels. Noah, Jordan, Griffin, Maggie, Duncan, Elaina, Miles, and Alex will stick with me for a long time to come.
I loved the first two books in AJ Pine’s If Only... series, If Only and What If. When I heard there was going to be another book in the series, I was ecstatic. I wanted to know what would happen to these couples I loved so much, plus I’d hoped for a story that involved Miles from the second book. I Do is a beautiful, fitting end to the series, and made me fall for these characters even more.
When I heard I Do was told from multiple points of view, I thought it would get confusing, but it was easy to keep up. Pine took something that could have been a mess and did a brilliant job with it. All the characters had such distinctive stories and personalities, I never got lost. It was actually the perfect way to tell the story, because we got to know the characters so well in the first two books, it was nice to be back inside their heads and see things from each perspective.
One of the things I loved most about this book (and Pine’s other books) was that things weren’t easy for the characters. In If Only and What If, we got to see Noah and Jordan, Griffin and Maggie, and Duncan and Elaina get their happily ever afters, but with I Do we see what comes after the happily ever after. Each couple was madly in love, but they still had struggles and fights and misunderstandings. It was wonderfully realistic, and it made me continue to root for them the way I did in the previous books. I absolutely loved Miles’s story; I adored him in What If, so to get him as a main character instead of a side character was great, and his story was beautiful (and sexy!).
Reading I Do was like being reunited with old friends. It was a perfect ending to a series I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. It was laugh-out-loud funny, romantic, sweet, and full of feels. Noah, Jordan, Griffin, Maggie, Duncan, Elaina, Miles, and Alex will stick with me for a long time to come.
November 16, 2015
There is nothing better than the perfect ending to a series. I Do gives fans of the If Only Series exactly what they want and maybe even a little of what they didn't know that they needed. This book is a blend of four different love tales woven into one book. Each story is like it's own novella, a complete short story, that is woven into the bigger tale of what is happening. We get to see Duncan and Elaina, Griffin and Maggie, Noah and Jordan, and Miles even finds someone special. This book is the perfect happily ever after for each and every character in the series. We see glimpses into what is happening now and decisions they are faced with, all the while hoping for a perfect ending and future. I loved getting to dive back into these relationships and see how far they had come.
The beauty of this book is that there is no one star to the story. It is a true collaboration of characters, each given a voice and a purpose in this book. I loved getting to see Duncan and Elaina push each others buttons. I loved watching Griffin and Maggie adore each other. I enjoyed seeing Jordan and Noah and their antics. And getting to see the smirking Miles find a love connection was icing on the cake! This book is a flurry of activity set in beautiful Greece, full of ups and downs, love and lust, frustration and a bit of angst. It is a satisfying end to a fantastic series! AJ Pine does a great job of giving each couple their spotlight while letting our hearts connect one more time. You can bet that I will be reading this series all the way though again, reliving the humor, friendship, and romance that Pine shares in the If Only series.
The beauty of this book is that there is no one star to the story. It is a true collaboration of characters, each given a voice and a purpose in this book. I loved getting to see Duncan and Elaina push each others buttons. I loved watching Griffin and Maggie adore each other. I enjoyed seeing Jordan and Noah and their antics. And getting to see the smirking Miles find a love connection was icing on the cake! This book is a flurry of activity set in beautiful Greece, full of ups and downs, love and lust, frustration and a bit of angst. It is a satisfying end to a fantastic series! AJ Pine does a great job of giving each couple their spotlight while letting our hearts connect one more time. You can bet that I will be reading this series all the way though again, reliving the humor, friendship, and romance that Pine shares in the If Only series.
November 17, 2015
I received an eARC of the book via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the third book in a series, but can be read as without any interference from the previous books, though a background story would do you loads of good.
Three couples, all going to the same destination, for a wedding with one end in mind – HEA.
Told in multiple POV’s it’s an interesting way to present three different love stories – and I absolutely loved it.
Noah and Jordan are that couple that you want to emulate, Griffin and Maggie’s is that relationship that you really want but Duncan and Elaina is exactly what you get and you couldn’t be happier with it!
But Miles, oh Miles was my favourite! He is so broken, about a part of himself that no one should ever feel! And when he finally gets his HEA is when I absolutely went ballistic :D
This is beautiful book, not just because it has three couples finally finding their HEA but because it shows that friendship and loyalty, is something that you can’t ever move forward without!
This book shows me that I need to read the first two books and stat! :D
For more book recommendations and reviews, please visit For The Love of Fictional Worlds
This is the third book in a series, but can be read as without any interference from the previous books, though a background story would do you loads of good.
Three couples, all going to the same destination, for a wedding with one end in mind – HEA.
Told in multiple POV’s it’s an interesting way to present three different love stories – and I absolutely loved it.
Noah and Jordan are that couple that you want to emulate, Griffin and Maggie’s is that relationship that you really want but Duncan and Elaina is exactly what you get and you couldn’t be happier with it!
But Miles, oh Miles was my favourite! He is so broken, about a part of himself that no one should ever feel! And when he finally gets his HEA is when I absolutely went ballistic :D
This is beautiful book, not just because it has three couples finally finding their HEA but because it shows that friendship and loyalty, is something that you can’t ever move forward without!
This book shows me that I need to read the first two books and stat! :D
For more book recommendations and reviews, please visit For The Love of Fictional Worlds
November 17, 2015
This is a brilliant culmination of multiple romances told from multiple points of view, a fitting ending to a superb series.
If you’ve read any other books in this series, you’ll recognise many of the characters in this story which brings them together for the planned wedding of Duncan McAllister and Elaina Tripoli in Greece but nothing is going right for any of them! The groom has disappeared and the other couples all have plans, expectations and things to work through! If it could go wrong, for these couples it is likely to do so!
It is a fun read, with great characters moving on with their lives from the previous stories but also highly entertaining. The author makes brilliant, skilled use of the different points of view to relate events and making it easy to empathise with them all. There’s plenty of drama and turmoil throughout the story, keeping the reader enthralled right to the very end. The epilogue is endearing and left me smiling.
If you like romances, this has four couples! It is a lovely ending to the series and also works well as a standalone. I have no hesitation in highly recommending it!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
If you’ve read any other books in this series, you’ll recognise many of the characters in this story which brings them together for the planned wedding of Duncan McAllister and Elaina Tripoli in Greece but nothing is going right for any of them! The groom has disappeared and the other couples all have plans, expectations and things to work through! If it could go wrong, for these couples it is likely to do so!
It is a fun read, with great characters moving on with their lives from the previous stories but also highly entertaining. The author makes brilliant, skilled use of the different points of view to relate events and making it easy to empathise with them all. There’s plenty of drama and turmoil throughout the story, keeping the reader enthralled right to the very end. The epilogue is endearing and left me smiling.
If you like romances, this has four couples! It is a lovely ending to the series and also works well as a standalone. I have no hesitation in highly recommending it!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
November 14, 2015
Juggling seven characters, and seven points of view, this wonderfully talented author writes a heartwarming, emotionally driven story that is a feel good study of friends who are reaching for the kind of love that lasts a lifetime with some bumps and stumbles along the way. Think of your favorite episodes of Friends, combined with a destination wedding, plenty of misunderstandings, lots of emotional growing pains and flawed, but lovable characters that you will remember long after you finish this book. I Do is the third book in the If Only series and while it can be read as a stand alone story, I recommend that you read the first two books first, so you can meet and fall in love with these characters, just like I did. I really loved this book! I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2015
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was super cute. It was almost like a book version of the movie "Love Actually" with all these interconnected stories within a larger setting involving a group of friends. I feel like I would've given this book a 5 star rating if I had read the previous books in this series that actually told the initial love stories of the couples featured in this book. It was like one long epilogue, which is such a great payoff but much more appreciated when I've read the whole story first.
This book was super cute. It was almost like a book version of the movie "Love Actually" with all these interconnected stories within a larger setting involving a group of friends. I feel like I would've given this book a 5 star rating if I had read the previous books in this series that actually told the initial love stories of the couples featured in this book. It was like one long epilogue, which is such a great payoff but much more appreciated when I've read the whole story first.
November 9, 2015
I loved, loved , loved this book! The characters were great and real. The story line was amazing I wish I had had read the first two books first so I would have know more about the characters. There is enough background so you don't have to read the first two to follow along with this book. I loved the story lines and adored all the characters in this books.
I will definitely be reading this book again after I read the first two. I would recommend this book to everyone. A.J. Pine blew me away with this book!
I will definitely be reading this book again after I read the first two. I would recommend this book to everyone. A.J. Pine blew me away with this book!
November 16, 2015
This book is EVERYTHING. Where do I even begin? First off, it brings back my favorite couples from If Only and What If. It's such a great feeling going back to characters I truly love. Noah and Jordan are still just as adorable as ever. Maggie and Griffin stole my heart yet again, Duncan and Elaina had me rooting for their HEA, and MILES AND ALEX ARE AMAZING. Seriously, this ensemble cast was so much fun to read. Another excellent Pine book and a great end to the series.
November 16, 2015
I love this book. I like going back and seeing all the folks from the previous books, but even more, I love the way this is all a distinct story. It's not just an extended epilogue, it's a full story with four couples who all have their own arc and journeys. I love how Miles has been promoted a series regular with this book, and I loved watching him... well... that'd be a spoiler.
Great job! Only could this maybe not be the end of the series? Because I miss my friends.
Great job! Only could this maybe not be the end of the series? Because I miss my friends.
November 7, 2015
4.25 stars-
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 16, 2015
Sometimes you have to trust your heart to find out what home really means.
Duncan McAllister is marrying Elaina Tripoli tomorrow. Except--he's missing. Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, and Miles arrive in Greece for the festivities to find frantic messages from both the bride and groom. Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan while Jordan, Maggie, and Miles try to salvage what should be a day of celebration before the wedding.
But the Americans have their own baggage. Noah's got a surprise planned for Jordan that has to go perfectly. Griffin's keeping life-changing news from Maggie. And Miles--well, he wasn't looking for love on this trip until a Greek sous chef named Alex rocks his world.
The race is on for Duncan to make it back to Elaina before she decides not to take him back at all. For Noah to make sure his monumental plan goes off without a hitch. For Griffin to tell Maggie the truth without losing her. For Miles to admit that letting himself fall in love is worth the risk.
Happily Ever After waits at the finish line…if the four couples can make it on time.
•••••••
REVIEW: 4.25 stars----I DO is the third (and final?) installment in A.J. Pine’s contemporary, new adult IF ONLY… erotic, romance series focusing on a group of friends. I DO looks at twenty four hours in the life of seven friends on the eve of Duncan and Elaina’s wedding in Elaina’s home country of Greece. When Scotsman Duncan sends a cryptic message to Elaina apologizing for not getting on the plane, his friends go in search of the wayward groom while the ladies remain behind wondering where everything went wrong. I DO can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty; any important information is revealed where necessary but I will add that there is quite a bit of backstory and history between the friends that is important to the storyline. I will admit I have not read the first two installments and felt I was missing something-a prior connection to the characters- throughout the story.
Told from seven third person perspectives (all 7 friends) I DO is an ensemble storyline that focuses on the relationships, history, emotional happiness and heartbreak between seven friends whose own relationships with one another are beginning to implode. On the eve of Duncan and Elaina’s wedding, emotions run high as friendships and relationships run a fine line between hatred and love; Elaina believes Duncan is a runaway groom: Jordan’s prior relationship with Griffin keep’s Noah wondering if Jordan made the right choice; Maggie makes a decision about her future with Griffin; and Miles is looking for something more when a Greek chef with American roots sets about to seduce our only single male. I will add that although the storyline has seven points of view, and four different but converging relationship paths, there is never any confusion to the who, what or why.
I DO is an entertaining storyline with realistic friendships and relationships-not everything is hearts and flowers; mistakes have been made; lines have been crossed. These friends have issues with one another- too much history to be forgotten; too many broken promises and broken hearts. The premise is engaging and at times I began to wonder if there would ever be a happily ever after for any of our couples as the drama of everyday life seemed, at times, to be overwhelming. The characters are passionate, emotional and real but all have an untoward propensity for casting a negative aura over their past, present and future situations ; the happily ever afters are intimate and revealing. The epilogue fast forwards the series one year wherein we get up close and personal in each couple’s lives.
A.J. Pine invites the reader into an emotional storyline about seven friends whose connections, friendships, relationships and loves, intertwine and weave a path of memories and happily ever afters.
Copy supplied by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 16, 2015
Sometimes you have to trust your heart to find out what home really means.
Duncan McAllister is marrying Elaina Tripoli tomorrow. Except--he's missing. Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, and Miles arrive in Greece for the festivities to find frantic messages from both the bride and groom. Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan while Jordan, Maggie, and Miles try to salvage what should be a day of celebration before the wedding.
But the Americans have their own baggage. Noah's got a surprise planned for Jordan that has to go perfectly. Griffin's keeping life-changing news from Maggie. And Miles--well, he wasn't looking for love on this trip until a Greek sous chef named Alex rocks his world.
The race is on for Duncan to make it back to Elaina before she decides not to take him back at all. For Noah to make sure his monumental plan goes off without a hitch. For Griffin to tell Maggie the truth without losing her. For Miles to admit that letting himself fall in love is worth the risk.
Happily Ever After waits at the finish line…if the four couples can make it on time.
•••••••
REVIEW: 4.25 stars----I DO is the third (and final?) installment in A.J. Pine’s contemporary, new adult IF ONLY… erotic, romance series focusing on a group of friends. I DO looks at twenty four hours in the life of seven friends on the eve of Duncan and Elaina’s wedding in Elaina’s home country of Greece. When Scotsman Duncan sends a cryptic message to Elaina apologizing for not getting on the plane, his friends go in search of the wayward groom while the ladies remain behind wondering where everything went wrong. I DO can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty; any important information is revealed where necessary but I will add that there is quite a bit of backstory and history between the friends that is important to the storyline. I will admit I have not read the first two installments and felt I was missing something-a prior connection to the characters- throughout the story.
Told from seven third person perspectives (all 7 friends) I DO is an ensemble storyline that focuses on the relationships, history, emotional happiness and heartbreak between seven friends whose own relationships with one another are beginning to implode. On the eve of Duncan and Elaina’s wedding, emotions run high as friendships and relationships run a fine line between hatred and love; Elaina believes Duncan is a runaway groom: Jordan’s prior relationship with Griffin keep’s Noah wondering if Jordan made the right choice; Maggie makes a decision about her future with Griffin; and Miles is looking for something more when a Greek chef with American roots sets about to seduce our only single male. I will add that although the storyline has seven points of view, and four different but converging relationship paths, there is never any confusion to the who, what or why.
I DO is an entertaining storyline with realistic friendships and relationships-not everything is hearts and flowers; mistakes have been made; lines have been crossed. These friends have issues with one another- too much history to be forgotten; too many broken promises and broken hearts. The premise is engaging and at times I began to wonder if there would ever be a happily ever after for any of our couples as the drama of everyday life seemed, at times, to be overwhelming. The characters are passionate, emotional and real but all have an untoward propensity for casting a negative aura over their past, present and future situations ; the happily ever afters are intimate and revealing. The epilogue fast forwards the series one year wherein we get up close and personal in each couple’s lives.
A.J. Pine invites the reader into an emotional storyline about seven friends whose connections, friendships, relationships and loves, intertwine and weave a path of memories and happily ever afters.
Copy supplied by the author.
December 19, 2015
Actual Rating 3.5 out of 5 Stars!
Originally posted on my blog: Tangled Up In Books
I received a copy of this book, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. In no way did this sway either my review or my rating.
I Do ended up being a very pleasant surprise. I got pretty intimidated when I first started and discovered it had seven points of view. Seven. The most I've ever dealt with has been three, so I was worried that it was going to end up being too much or jumbled or confusing or any number of risky things hopping around between so many heads. Honestly though, for this book, it really, really worked. Even starting this series on book three didn't throw things out of whack either because I never felt lost with any of the characters or their history. Basically I had tons of fun reading this book!
I liked each one of the eight characters that this book shuffles through in varying degrees. A couple were just okay, a few were great and two of them completely stole my heart. But there really wasn't anybody I did not like at all. Alex and Miles were totally my guys. Part of me feels like, since they were the only new couple to this series, meeting and getting together in this book, that maybe it was the newness of them. Seeing the sparks of that first attraction and watching them fall for each other that did it for me. That and they were just so sweet and incredibly sexy! Even though I was intimidated with seven points of view at first, I felt it was such a shame to miss out on Alex's and seeing what exactly was going on in his head as Miles fought his feelings.
I really only take issue on one thing when it comes to this book. Each one of the couples always seemed on the brink of ripping of their clothes and jumping into bed at the end of each of their points of view. Now, it wasn't graphic sex each and every time though, sometimes a point of view would end with a bit, or a lot, of foreplay and then end leaving no doubt what happened after the switch. They're all young and in love, I get it. It's just that the first 10 percent alone was filled with heavy make out sessions and a whole lot of feeling each other up. And lots of leading up to sexual encounters and then switching views. It wasn't terrible, I guess I just wanted more story and conversations and showing me that it wasn't just each other's bodies that had all these people into each other.
One thing this book did a bang up job on was throwing wrenches into everyone's plans. Just when you'd think that things were going to smooth out something would jump out and threaten to rip the couples apart and then it would turn into a domino effect. There were times when I wondered if everyone who came to Greece would end up leaving there happily ever after you know? It was a bumpy but extremely fun ride that's for sure!
Seeing as how I did start this series in an odd place I would love to go back and read the first two books and actually see some of these people get together instead of just hearing about it in the past tense. Something I'll definitely have to do one of these days!
As I said in the beginning, this book truly was a pleasant surprise with 8 solid characters that would easily leave you laughing, swooning or completely frustrated. You could easily read this book on it's own if you haven't read the first two books, although it did leave me wanting to know more details.
Thanks to Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Originally posted on my blog: Tangled Up In Books
I received a copy of this book, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. In no way did this sway either my review or my rating.
I Do ended up being a very pleasant surprise. I got pretty intimidated when I first started and discovered it had seven points of view. Seven. The most I've ever dealt with has been three, so I was worried that it was going to end up being too much or jumbled or confusing or any number of risky things hopping around between so many heads. Honestly though, for this book, it really, really worked. Even starting this series on book three didn't throw things out of whack either because I never felt lost with any of the characters or their history. Basically I had tons of fun reading this book!
I liked each one of the eight characters that this book shuffles through in varying degrees. A couple were just okay, a few were great and two of them completely stole my heart. But there really wasn't anybody I did not like at all. Alex and Miles were totally my guys. Part of me feels like, since they were the only new couple to this series, meeting and getting together in this book, that maybe it was the newness of them. Seeing the sparks of that first attraction and watching them fall for each other that did it for me. That and they were just so sweet and incredibly sexy! Even though I was intimidated with seven points of view at first, I felt it was such a shame to miss out on Alex's and seeing what exactly was going on in his head as Miles fought his feelings.
I really only take issue on one thing when it comes to this book. Each one of the couples always seemed on the brink of ripping of their clothes and jumping into bed at the end of each of their points of view. Now, it wasn't graphic sex each and every time though, sometimes a point of view would end with a bit, or a lot, of foreplay and then end leaving no doubt what happened after the switch. They're all young and in love, I get it. It's just that the first 10 percent alone was filled with heavy make out sessions and a whole lot of feeling each other up. And lots of leading up to sexual encounters and then switching views. It wasn't terrible, I guess I just wanted more story and conversations and showing me that it wasn't just each other's bodies that had all these people into each other.
One thing this book did a bang up job on was throwing wrenches into everyone's plans. Just when you'd think that things were going to smooth out something would jump out and threaten to rip the couples apart and then it would turn into a domino effect. There were times when I wondered if everyone who came to Greece would end up leaving there happily ever after you know? It was a bumpy but extremely fun ride that's for sure!
Seeing as how I did start this series in an odd place I would love to go back and read the first two books and actually see some of these people get together instead of just hearing about it in the past tense. Something I'll definitely have to do one of these days!
As I said in the beginning, this book truly was a pleasant surprise with 8 solid characters that would easily leave you laughing, swooning or completely frustrated. You could easily read this book on it's own if you haven't read the first two books, although it did leave me wanting to know more details.
Thanks to Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book!
January 19, 2016
I Do by A.J. Pine is book three in the If Only Series. It follows the lives of four couples as they embark on the next stage of their lives. Duncan McAllister is all set to marry Elaina Tripoli in Greece. The only problem is – he needs to get there. Griffin is traveling to Greece with his girlfriend Maggie. While he is concerned about her medical state he is also keeping a life changing secret from her. Noah is on his way to Greece with his girlfriend Jordan, and he plans to have a perfectly timed and precise place to ask her to marry him. Miles is so dead set against weddings and any form of commitment, yet he tags along to keep Maggie company. And the placement of a handsome stranger in the seat next to him on the plane proves much more than he was expecting. While all of their friends are arriving in Greece for the nuptialsthey get a frantic message from the bride that Duncan is missing. And Duncan makes his one phone call to his friend Griffin – not his future wife. Causing more strife with his bride to be.
While Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan they leave behind Jordan, Maggie and Miles to console and comfort the bride.Elaina is dead set that Duncan has stood her up at the alter and she is bound and determined to show him what he is giving up once he does arrive, if heever arrives.
Will Duncan make it in time to marry Elaina? Will Maggie stay with Griffin after the life changing news he has for her? Will Noah find the perfect time to ask Jordan to marry him, and will Milesrealize that its ok to let down his walls and love again?
This story was a fast paced drama that unfolded perfectly. While I had not read the previous two books – this was perfect even as a stand alone. Although I will go back and read the first two books now as I am completely hooked. Duncan was my absolute favorite – who can deny a kilt wearing Scot? And his relationship with Elaina has had its share of ups and downs and now was the perfect moment for them to make the commitment to become one. But, as always, it seems that Duncan’s tendency to make a mess of a situation won out. I loved the way he loves her. Absolute and completely. And the epilogue – Perfection!! Griffin and Maggie’s relationship actually had me on edge at first. I could not understand why he wouldn’t tell her up front about the life changing job – but in the end he made that absolutely clear. He loves her and all of her flaws. He wants nothing more than to protect her and love her. Noah and Jordan’s relationship was playful and truthful. Even though the road getting to where they are now was a rough one – Noah’s love for Jordan is real. And his nervousness about the whole marriage proposal was wonderful to read. But my favorite character of the entire book was Miles. Its always the closed off, soft hearted guys that get you. I loved every moment of his and Alex’s relationship, from the airplane to the final scene. They made me laugh and sweat and everything in between. Each relationship was wonderful and unique but in the end it was all about the trust and the trust in their hearts.
I truly enjoyed this book and I will absolutely go back and read the first two books now. As I can not wait to delve deeper into each couples stories. Wonderful read…
While Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan they leave behind Jordan, Maggie and Miles to console and comfort the bride.Elaina is dead set that Duncan has stood her up at the alter and she is bound and determined to show him what he is giving up once he does arrive, if heever arrives.
Will Duncan make it in time to marry Elaina? Will Maggie stay with Griffin after the life changing news he has for her? Will Noah find the perfect time to ask Jordan to marry him, and will Milesrealize that its ok to let down his walls and love again?
This story was a fast paced drama that unfolded perfectly. While I had not read the previous two books – this was perfect even as a stand alone. Although I will go back and read the first two books now as I am completely hooked. Duncan was my absolute favorite – who can deny a kilt wearing Scot? And his relationship with Elaina has had its share of ups and downs and now was the perfect moment for them to make the commitment to become one. But, as always, it seems that Duncan’s tendency to make a mess of a situation won out. I loved the way he loves her. Absolute and completely. And the epilogue – Perfection!! Griffin and Maggie’s relationship actually had me on edge at first. I could not understand why he wouldn’t tell her up front about the life changing job – but in the end he made that absolutely clear. He loves her and all of her flaws. He wants nothing more than to protect her and love her. Noah and Jordan’s relationship was playful and truthful. Even though the road getting to where they are now was a rough one – Noah’s love for Jordan is real. And his nervousness about the whole marriage proposal was wonderful to read. But my favorite character of the entire book was Miles. Its always the closed off, soft hearted guys that get you. I loved every moment of his and Alex’s relationship, from the airplane to the final scene. They made me laugh and sweat and everything in between. Each relationship was wonderful and unique but in the end it was all about the trust and the trust in their hearts.
I truly enjoyed this book and I will absolutely go back and read the first two books now. As I can not wait to delve deeper into each couples stories. Wonderful read…
April 14, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
I Do is the conclusion to the If Only series from A.J. Pine, and features all the characters we have come to know and love. While the first two books in the series can easily be read as standalones, I don't know that I would recommend reading this one as a standalone. Though we are given some background information on the characters, this picks up after the events of the first two books with the couples already established. I think that anyone coming in at this point without having read the previous books might be a bit confused and feel as though they have missed much of the story.
Duncan McAllister and Elaina Tripoli are set to marry in Greece, with all their friends joining them for their special day. But as Duncan heads for Greece from Scotland, something unexpected happens and he misses his flight to Greece. With Duncan missing, Noah and Griffin set out to find him, while Jordan, Maggie and Miles help Elaina continue with the wedding plans for the next day. But as they all try to make sure that Duncan and Elaina's day is everything they dreamed of, each couple finds out that they have more to worry about than just the wedding. Noah has a surprise for Jordan, Griffin has some news that could change everything for not only himself, but also Maggie, and Miles just met a Greek chef that makes him reconsider his stance on romance. Can all the couples figure out their own relationships while helping Duncan and Elaina start their forever?
It was so great to see all these characters again, and I was so glad that we got a glimpse of their HEAs playing out. I was so glad that while each of these couples had some issues to deal with here, they weren't things that kept them from being with the ones they loved. The love these couples had was never in question, and they were able to deal with their problems together. I will say that it was a bit disorienting at times because this story focused on all of the characters from this series. While it was nice to see them all, having 7 different POVs got to be a little crazy at times. It was nice to get their thoughts and feelings, but I would just be getting into one person's POV when it would switch on me. I think that fans of this series will enjoy this book though, and it was a great conclusion to the series. I have loved getting to know these characters, and I Do was an enjoyable end that nicely wrapped up the series.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
I Do is the conclusion to the If Only series from A.J. Pine, and features all the characters we have come to know and love. While the first two books in the series can easily be read as standalones, I don't know that I would recommend reading this one as a standalone. Though we are given some background information on the characters, this picks up after the events of the first two books with the couples already established. I think that anyone coming in at this point without having read the previous books might be a bit confused and feel as though they have missed much of the story.
Duncan McAllister and Elaina Tripoli are set to marry in Greece, with all their friends joining them for their special day. But as Duncan heads for Greece from Scotland, something unexpected happens and he misses his flight to Greece. With Duncan missing, Noah and Griffin set out to find him, while Jordan, Maggie and Miles help Elaina continue with the wedding plans for the next day. But as they all try to make sure that Duncan and Elaina's day is everything they dreamed of, each couple finds out that they have more to worry about than just the wedding. Noah has a surprise for Jordan, Griffin has some news that could change everything for not only himself, but also Maggie, and Miles just met a Greek chef that makes him reconsider his stance on romance. Can all the couples figure out their own relationships while helping Duncan and Elaina start their forever?
It was so great to see all these characters again, and I was so glad that we got a glimpse of their HEAs playing out. I was so glad that while each of these couples had some issues to deal with here, they weren't things that kept them from being with the ones they loved. The love these couples had was never in question, and they were able to deal with their problems together. I will say that it was a bit disorienting at times because this story focused on all of the characters from this series. While it was nice to see them all, having 7 different POVs got to be a little crazy at times. It was nice to get their thoughts and feelings, but I would just be getting into one person's POV when it would switch on me. I think that fans of this series will enjoy this book though, and it was a great conclusion to the series. I have loved getting to know these characters, and I Do was an enjoyable end that nicely wrapped up the series.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
November 17, 2015
Sometimes you have to trust your heart to find out what home really means.
Duncan McAllister is marrying Elaina Tripoli tomorrow. Except--he's missing. Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, and Miles arrive in Greece for the festivities to find frantic messages from both the bride and groom. Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan while Jordan, Maggie, and Miles try to salvage what should be a day of celebration before the wedding.
But the Americans have their own baggage. Noah's got a surprise planned for Jordan that has to go perfectly. Griffin's keeping life-changing news from Maggie. And Miles--well, he wasn't looking for love on this trip until a Greek sous chef named Alex rocks his world.
The race is on for Duncan to make it back to Elaina before she decides not to take him back at all. For Noah to make sure his monumental plan goes off without a hitch. For Griffin to tell Maggie the truth without losing her. For Miles to admit that letting himself fall in love is worth the risk.
Happily Ever After waits at the finish line…if the four couples can make it on time.
Review:
I have to say kuddos to this Author. She made a fun and coherent book out of seven different characters points of view. Seriously, I don't know how she did it, I would have gone nuts with the logistics of it all. Each of the seven main characters gets their time to shine and we see the story from many different angles and it gives it more of a being there with them feel, at least to me. Each couple or potential couple have a obstacle to overcome both as individuals and as couples. All the obstacles are things that people deal with in everyday life, that gives the story a more realistic touch. I liked that I felt a wide range of emotions reading this book; there is fun, mad, sad, touching, sexy and joyous moments throughout. I have not read the two previous books in the series, but the Author did a great job on getting the backstory into this book so I was not confused. I would like to go back and read those books though, just from reading about them in this book. I loved the ending and all the HEA's.
4Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased and honest review.*
Duncan McAllister is marrying Elaina Tripoli tomorrow. Except--he's missing. Jordan, Noah, Griffin, Maggie, and Miles arrive in Greece for the festivities to find frantic messages from both the bride and groom. Noah and Griffin set off to find Duncan while Jordan, Maggie, and Miles try to salvage what should be a day of celebration before the wedding.
But the Americans have their own baggage. Noah's got a surprise planned for Jordan that has to go perfectly. Griffin's keeping life-changing news from Maggie. And Miles--well, he wasn't looking for love on this trip until a Greek sous chef named Alex rocks his world.
The race is on for Duncan to make it back to Elaina before she decides not to take him back at all. For Noah to make sure his monumental plan goes off without a hitch. For Griffin to tell Maggie the truth without losing her. For Miles to admit that letting himself fall in love is worth the risk.
Happily Ever After waits at the finish line…if the four couples can make it on time.
Review:
I have to say kuddos to this Author. She made a fun and coherent book out of seven different characters points of view. Seriously, I don't know how she did it, I would have gone nuts with the logistics of it all. Each of the seven main characters gets their time to shine and we see the story from many different angles and it gives it more of a being there with them feel, at least to me. Each couple or potential couple have a obstacle to overcome both as individuals and as couples. All the obstacles are things that people deal with in everyday life, that gives the story a more realistic touch. I liked that I felt a wide range of emotions reading this book; there is fun, mad, sad, touching, sexy and joyous moments throughout. I have not read the two previous books in the series, but the Author did a great job on getting the backstory into this book so I was not confused. I would like to go back and read those books though, just from reading about them in this book. I loved the ending and all the HEA's.
4Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased and honest review.*
November 17, 2015
I Do, A.J. Pine
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, New Adult
Well this is part of a series, but each book is complete and can be read as a stand alone. Having said that I’d not read the earlier ones and I think I’d have got more from this if I had. There is brief backstory info given where needed but I just didn’t really get a sense of the people they were and what was important to them as individuals. Clearly they’ve had some issues but are a close group of friends.
Its told from multiple points of view ( seven!) – I like that, but it did mean a lot of jumping from person to person in quite a short novel ( 2330 kindle locations) so there’s no space for really getting into anything in real depth.
What appeals to me about the New Adult genre is the drama and emotion books usually have but its all very surface based light and fluffy here...and I missed the angst, the sadness, the drama that makes the happy parts all the sweeter.
It’s a fun read though, with a HEA for everyone and some great characters. If you want short, light and fun this is perfect.
Stars: Three, a good read if you’ve followed the series and want a perfect ending for the couples.
...
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
If you enjoyed my review I'd love it if you would please click “Like” and if you didn't I'd love to know why, so I can make future reviews more helpful.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, New Adult
Well this is part of a series, but each book is complete and can be read as a stand alone. Having said that I’d not read the earlier ones and I think I’d have got more from this if I had. There is brief backstory info given where needed but I just didn’t really get a sense of the people they were and what was important to them as individuals. Clearly they’ve had some issues but are a close group of friends.
Its told from multiple points of view ( seven!) – I like that, but it did mean a lot of jumping from person to person in quite a short novel ( 2330 kindle locations) so there’s no space for really getting into anything in real depth.
What appeals to me about the New Adult genre is the drama and emotion books usually have but its all very surface based light and fluffy here...and I missed the angst, the sadness, the drama that makes the happy parts all the sweeter.
It’s a fun read though, with a HEA for everyone and some great characters. If you want short, light and fun this is perfect.
Stars: Three, a good read if you’ve followed the series and want a perfect ending for the couples.
...
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
If you enjoyed my review I'd love it if you would please click “Like” and if you didn't I'd love to know why, so I can make future reviews more helpful.
December 22, 2015
Duncan is marrying Elaina. Noah has a surprise for Jordan after their best friends get married. Griffin has important news to tell Maggie. Miles meets a very sexy man on the flight where he is an uncomfortable fifth wheel. What can happen will happen when this is supposed to the happiest times in their lives. Can their love over come these hurdles or will things end tragically?
I really liked this story. I don’t normally like to read a series out of order, but this book was an excellent standalone that makes me want to go back and read about Noah and Jordan’s beginning and Griffin and Maggie’s start also. This love story really was a bit of a story with a comedy of errors mixed in. From Duncan’s airport mishap to Noah’s spoiled surprise to Griffin’s important news coming out at an inconvenient time. These all made them very relatable and made you love them even more when they made up for it. I also, liked the women. They are all strong with a fantastic love for their men that shines through all they do even when they are mad at them. I truly felt this was a realistic love story for all involved. It was touching and brought a lot of issues that most couples have into a story where happily ever after is obtainable. I would totally recommend this book for all who want a great love story.
I really liked this story. I don’t normally like to read a series out of order, but this book was an excellent standalone that makes me want to go back and read about Noah and Jordan’s beginning and Griffin and Maggie’s start also. This love story really was a bit of a story with a comedy of errors mixed in. From Duncan’s airport mishap to Noah’s spoiled surprise to Griffin’s important news coming out at an inconvenient time. These all made them very relatable and made you love them even more when they made up for it. I also, liked the women. They are all strong with a fantastic love for their men that shines through all they do even when they are mad at them. I truly felt this was a realistic love story for all involved. It was touching and brought a lot of issues that most couples have into a story where happily ever after is obtainable. I would totally recommend this book for all who want a great love story.
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