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I’m doomed, and I know it!
I waited more years than I care to admit for commitment-phobic Keith Emerson to realize I was the love of his life. He finally came to his senses, but the timing couldn’t be more off!
Now, back in the picture, Keith’s saying and doing all the right things… And all my old feelings are returning with a vengeance…
Should I abandon my present for a second chance at my past?
And why do I have a feeling no matter what I do next, I am about to make the biggest mistake of my life?
I waited more years than I care to admit for commitment-phobic Keith Emerson to realize I was the love of his life. He finally came to his senses, but the timing couldn’t be more off!
Now, back in the picture, Keith’s saying and doing all the right things… And all my old feelings are returning with a vengeance…
Should I abandon my present for a second chance at my past?
And why do I have a feeling no matter what I do next, I am about to make the biggest mistake of my life?
246 pages, ebook
First published March 8, 2017
100 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Hilary Grossman
21 books341 followersHilary Grossman is a recovering corporate executive. She spends her mornings and weekends hanging out with her "characters." She has an unhealthy addiction to denim and high heel shoes. She’s been known to walk into walls and fall up stairs. She only eats spicy foods and is obsessed with her cat, Lucy. She loves to find humor in everyday life. She likens life to a game of dodge ball - she tries to keep many balls in the air before they smack her in the face. She lives on the beach in Long Island.
To find out more of what Hilary is up to check out her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HilaryGrossm...
To find out more of what Hilary is up to check out her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HilaryGrossm...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 8, 2017
“Would you abandon your present for a second chance at your past?”
Plan Cee is the latest book in the “Secrets, Lies & Second Chance Series”. At this point in the series, Author Hilary Grossman’s books are now Must-Reads for me and many other fans.
Plan Cee lets us dip into the lives of some familiar faces that we have met in the earlier books, but Plan Cee can be read as a stand-alone. Cecelia Reynolds “Cee” is the star of this book. When we meet her, she is at a wedding. At the start of the wedding ceremony, she is a regular gal- with a career, kind and supportive husband and rambunctious young twins. At the end of the festivities, her life has been shaken from the moorings of all she knows. The age-old problem- the exciting love from the past or the steady, solid husband and family of the “now” confronts Cee.
Once again, we meet a full cast of well-developed and interesting characters. In Author Grossman’s hands, these characters are vivid and fun to read about. Each one of them deals with past and present secrets, hurts and betrayals. Ms. Grossman is a master at studying and showing us the dangers and far-reaching effects of big and small lies.
“You will never be able to enjoy the present if you don’t resolve your past.”
“Life is short. Don’t settle. Don’t let fear cripple you.”
“We only have one life. Time passes if you are happy or miserable.”
I especially like that Plan Cee features millennial-aged characters, and some older, mature ones. The interplay of the generations, with their different perspectives, attitudes and ways of facing life adds to the richness of the story. This would be a great book club read as there is much to discuss! Not that this is a slow or intellectual read. The plot is fast-paced and the dialogue is spot-on. The beach scenes and life In New York and Long Island are beautifully described.
Most of the characters in Plan Cee have advice for Cee. As you read this book you may be shouting at her too, telling Cee what to do. My advice to Cee is to “Stop listening to your friends. Listen to yourself!” My advice to everyone else is put Plan Cee on the top of your list and read this 5 Star book as soon as you can!
Plan Cee is the latest book in the “Secrets, Lies & Second Chance Series”. At this point in the series, Author Hilary Grossman’s books are now Must-Reads for me and many other fans.
Plan Cee lets us dip into the lives of some familiar faces that we have met in the earlier books, but Plan Cee can be read as a stand-alone. Cecelia Reynolds “Cee” is the star of this book. When we meet her, she is at a wedding. At the start of the wedding ceremony, she is a regular gal- with a career, kind and supportive husband and rambunctious young twins. At the end of the festivities, her life has been shaken from the moorings of all she knows. The age-old problem- the exciting love from the past or the steady, solid husband and family of the “now” confronts Cee.
Once again, we meet a full cast of well-developed and interesting characters. In Author Grossman’s hands, these characters are vivid and fun to read about. Each one of them deals with past and present secrets, hurts and betrayals. Ms. Grossman is a master at studying and showing us the dangers and far-reaching effects of big and small lies.
“You will never be able to enjoy the present if you don’t resolve your past.”
“Life is short. Don’t settle. Don’t let fear cripple you.”
“We only have one life. Time passes if you are happy or miserable.”
I especially like that Plan Cee features millennial-aged characters, and some older, mature ones. The interplay of the generations, with their different perspectives, attitudes and ways of facing life adds to the richness of the story. This would be a great book club read as there is much to discuss! Not that this is a slow or intellectual read. The plot is fast-paced and the dialogue is spot-on. The beach scenes and life In New York and Long Island are beautifully described.
Most of the characters in Plan Cee have advice for Cee. As you read this book you may be shouting at her too, telling Cee what to do. My advice to Cee is to “Stop listening to your friends. Listen to yourself!” My advice to everyone else is put Plan Cee on the top of your list and read this 5 Star book as soon as you can!
March 13, 2017
Plan Cee explores love, secrets, betrayal, family, and friendships in this rollercoaster contemporary romance. The characters come to life and while the reader may not always agree with the characters' actions, their humanness draws the reader in. A great book to read while at the pool or beach.
March 22, 2017
Why do we lie to ourselves when we intimately knew the truth? Do we think we can really fool ourselves? If I slept two and a half hours last night, I slept a lot. I couldn’t stop thinking about everything that happened with both Bryce and Anna. I hated myself for the way I had acted, and how I treated two of the people I loved most in the world. I had to get my act together. I needed to start being myself again. And while I didn’t really know how I’d be able to stop thinking about Keith, I knew I didn’t have a choice. I had to try.
You know those moments when you go, “What on earth was I thinking?” Most of those moments are played out by your emotions, not thoughts. That is why there is a very big quote that goes, “Think with your head, not with your heart.” Sometimes, these moments are great and you really get to indulge in your passion…but sometimes, they just get you into trouble—especially if you don’t really know what your heart wants. Cecilia has a wonderful husband, two wonderful children, and some wonderful friends who she would do anything for. But, when a judge by the name of Keith Emerson shows up to officiate the marriage of Cecilia’s best friend’s mother—all of that wonderful flies out the window. Grossman makes an impact with this second installment. Emotions fly rampant, hearts are broken…and there are a lot of things that readers can really relate to.
Cecilia is happy, but there is something missing in her marriage. She doesn’t understand what she is feeling, so she buries it deep inside because everyone tells her how wonderful and lucky she is to have her husband, Bryce. He is the perfect man. He is the epitome of success and Cecilia knows that she should be thankful…but he is just not…Keith! When Keith shows up at Walter and Bea’s wedding, Cecilia is caught off guard. After the run-in, she slowly closes herself off to her friends and family—just like her father. The same father who abandoned her…for all of the years she spent growing up, thinking that it was her fault that he left. She becomes excited to see text messages from Keith and against her better judgement, begins spending time with him…until her husband finds out. When the perfect man walks out of her life, possibly for good…Cecilia knows that she really messed up…but was it worth it? Did she really find what she was looking for or was she chasing a fantasy all of these years?
Grossman sheds some light on the strengths and weaknesses of human emotions. This story is chalked full of creativity and chaos all bundled into her characters’ lives. The character development is superb and the story is well-written. This author takes the time to engage her readers with finding sympathy for all characters involved, even if the path that is being traveled is all wrong. Grossman gives the statement worth… “You never know what you have until it’s gone.” There are reasons for everything that happens, but choices must always be made and then consequences are sure to follow. Sometimes, there are times when mistakes need to be made in order to find one’s self out of the darkness that they live in. If you are a reader of contemporary romance and women’s fiction, you may be interested in reading this. It is recommended that the first installment be read, simply because this picks up right where that one ends; however, it can be read as a standalone if preferred.
A copy of this book was provided to Turning Another Page by the author, but this in no way affects our honest opinion of the book or the review that has been written. We provide a five-star rating for Plan Cee by Hilary Grossman.
You know those moments when you go, “What on earth was I thinking?” Most of those moments are played out by your emotions, not thoughts. That is why there is a very big quote that goes, “Think with your head, not with your heart.” Sometimes, these moments are great and you really get to indulge in your passion…but sometimes, they just get you into trouble—especially if you don’t really know what your heart wants. Cecilia has a wonderful husband, two wonderful children, and some wonderful friends who she would do anything for. But, when a judge by the name of Keith Emerson shows up to officiate the marriage of Cecilia’s best friend’s mother—all of that wonderful flies out the window. Grossman makes an impact with this second installment. Emotions fly rampant, hearts are broken…and there are a lot of things that readers can really relate to.
Cecilia is happy, but there is something missing in her marriage. She doesn’t understand what she is feeling, so she buries it deep inside because everyone tells her how wonderful and lucky she is to have her husband, Bryce. He is the perfect man. He is the epitome of success and Cecilia knows that she should be thankful…but he is just not…Keith! When Keith shows up at Walter and Bea’s wedding, Cecilia is caught off guard. After the run-in, she slowly closes herself off to her friends and family—just like her father. The same father who abandoned her…for all of the years she spent growing up, thinking that it was her fault that he left. She becomes excited to see text messages from Keith and against her better judgement, begins spending time with him…until her husband finds out. When the perfect man walks out of her life, possibly for good…Cecilia knows that she really messed up…but was it worth it? Did she really find what she was looking for or was she chasing a fantasy all of these years?
Grossman sheds some light on the strengths and weaknesses of human emotions. This story is chalked full of creativity and chaos all bundled into her characters’ lives. The character development is superb and the story is well-written. This author takes the time to engage her readers with finding sympathy for all characters involved, even if the path that is being traveled is all wrong. Grossman gives the statement worth… “You never know what you have until it’s gone.” There are reasons for everything that happens, but choices must always be made and then consequences are sure to follow. Sometimes, there are times when mistakes need to be made in order to find one’s self out of the darkness that they live in. If you are a reader of contemporary romance and women’s fiction, you may be interested in reading this. It is recommended that the first installment be read, simply because this picks up right where that one ends; however, it can be read as a standalone if preferred.
A copy of this book was provided to Turning Another Page by the author, but this in no way affects our honest opinion of the book or the review that has been written. We provide a five-star rating for Plan Cee by Hilary Grossman.
March 6, 2017
Life often throws unexpected curve balls and Cecelia finds out in Plan Cee just how those curve balls can throw a monkey wrench into life. Hilary Grossman's second novel in her series picks up with some of the beloved characters from her debut novel Plan Bea. In Plan Cee readers meet up with Bea, Walter, Anna and Cole again but the main story revolves around Cecelia who is Anna's best friend.
Once again we see a character who appears to have it all. Family, stability and love but as a former love interest makes his appearance in her life once again she is struck with a pretty difficult decision.
I have to be honest. There was a pretty good portion of this book where I was less than enamored with Cecelia. She appeared to be selfish and self centered and making all the wrong decisions in my humble opinion. But isn't that the sign of a great author? I love authors that can write characters with such detail that the reader can form great opinions about them almost immediately. This was definitely the case with Cecelia. I wanted to like her and I did eventually but her selfishness made me cringe at times.
The story takes on a few twists and turns and it was a page turner. I dug up my email that I wrote to Hilary after I read it and this was what I wrote:
"So I read Plan Cee. In a day.
And.....
LOVED IT!!
Although I did kind of hate Cee for awhile."
If you are looking for a fun and entertaining book to read Plan Cee is the one. Hilary weaves a great story with likable (and unlikeable at times) characters who pull you into their world and make you feel like one of the family. While it is a sequel it can be read in a stand alone fashion without any difficulty.
Thank you to Hilary for providing me with an ARC to read. I would have read it anyway because I am one of her biggest fans. Don't wait to get your copy. It will be the bright spot of your week.
Once again we see a character who appears to have it all. Family, stability and love but as a former love interest makes his appearance in her life once again she is struck with a pretty difficult decision.
I have to be honest. There was a pretty good portion of this book where I was less than enamored with Cecelia. She appeared to be selfish and self centered and making all the wrong decisions in my humble opinion. But isn't that the sign of a great author? I love authors that can write characters with such detail that the reader can form great opinions about them almost immediately. This was definitely the case with Cecelia. I wanted to like her and I did eventually but her selfishness made me cringe at times.
The story takes on a few twists and turns and it was a page turner. I dug up my email that I wrote to Hilary after I read it and this was what I wrote:
"So I read Plan Cee. In a day.
And.....
LOVED IT!!
Although I did kind of hate Cee for awhile."
If you are looking for a fun and entertaining book to read Plan Cee is the one. Hilary weaves a great story with likable (and unlikeable at times) characters who pull you into their world and make you feel like one of the family. While it is a sequel it can be read in a stand alone fashion without any difficulty.
Thank you to Hilary for providing me with an ARC to read. I would have read it anyway because I am one of her biggest fans. Don't wait to get your copy. It will be the bright spot of your week.
April 23, 2017
Happily married, Cecelia Reynolds world is turned upside down when the judge presiding over her best friend’s wedding, turns out to be Keith Emerson, the man she walked out on years ago when he couldn’t commit.
All the feelings of abandonment and rejection come back to Cecelia with a vengeance. When Keith professes that he’s never gotten over Cee, her carefully constructed world begins to fall apart. Emotions that Cee buried long ago, stretching back to childhood surface and threaten to destroy everything she’s come to hold dear.
Plan Cee is an amazing story! It’s the sequel to Plan Bea but can be read as a standalone. You’ll need to put on your big girl panties to get through this story. It deals with weighty subjects and flawed people. In the end, it’s an adult love story that will tear your heart out, but leaves you with a sense of hope.
Hilary Grossman is such a good writer! You feel like you’re a fly on the wall, listening in on intimate conversations. It’s damn uncomfortable at times because you see the train wreck coming from a mile away and there’s nothing you can do but watch in horror as the inevitable happens.
Lisa Beacom narrates this nearly 8-hour audiobook and she outdid herself on this one! The story required a wide range of emotions and she nailed it every time, in this fully voiced production. Some scenes were so intense, I literally had to pause the audiobook! Plan Cee is a well-produced audiobook and the sound quality is first rate.
2017 has been a banner year for audiobooks, I’ve listened to several good stories this year. Plan Cee stands out as the best I’ve listened to so far and that’s saying something.
This audiobook was gifted to me in exchange for an unbiased review!
All the feelings of abandonment and rejection come back to Cecelia with a vengeance. When Keith professes that he’s never gotten over Cee, her carefully constructed world begins to fall apart. Emotions that Cee buried long ago, stretching back to childhood surface and threaten to destroy everything she’s come to hold dear.
Plan Cee is an amazing story! It’s the sequel to Plan Bea but can be read as a standalone. You’ll need to put on your big girl panties to get through this story. It deals with weighty subjects and flawed people. In the end, it’s an adult love story that will tear your heart out, but leaves you with a sense of hope.
Hilary Grossman is such a good writer! You feel like you’re a fly on the wall, listening in on intimate conversations. It’s damn uncomfortable at times because you see the train wreck coming from a mile away and there’s nothing you can do but watch in horror as the inevitable happens.
Lisa Beacom narrates this nearly 8-hour audiobook and she outdid herself on this one! The story required a wide range of emotions and she nailed it every time, in this fully voiced production. Some scenes were so intense, I literally had to pause the audiobook! Plan Cee is a well-produced audiobook and the sound quality is first rate.
2017 has been a banner year for audiobooks, I’ve listened to several good stories this year. Plan Cee stands out as the best I’ve listened to so far and that’s saying something.
This audiobook was gifted to me in exchange for an unbiased review!
May 4, 2017
Cecelia Reynolds is stunned, to say the least, when attending a friend’s wedding she comes face to face with an old flame. Keith Emerson happens to be officiating the ceremony. It doesn’t take long for her to realize their love never died. However, twenty years have gone by since they last saw each other. During that time, Cecelia has a very successful career, plus a loving husband and twin sons. She couldn’t be happier or so she thought.
Keith’s reappearance in her life reawakens feelings she thought ended a long time ago. Cecelia finds herself in an impossible situation which causes her to do things she never thought she was capable of doing. It all leads to secrets, lies and a self-awareness she didn’t have before. Plan Cee shows how Cecelia’s entire life molded her into the woman she has become today.
Hilary Grossman touches your heart with her writing. She has created a realistic cast of characters in realistic situations. I have to admit, I didn’t love Cecelia throughout this book. There were times I wanted to shake her. I couldn’t understand the decisions she made, but I couldn’t stop reading either. I had to know why she did the things she did. This book shows how good people aren’t perfect. You don’t always know what’s going on in someone else’s life and you can’t question their choices. By the end of the book, I was rooting for Cecelia to succeed.
Although this is a sequel to Plan Bea, it can be read on its own but it’s more fun to read both of them. Both books are women’s fiction at its finest.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Keith’s reappearance in her life reawakens feelings she thought ended a long time ago. Cecelia finds herself in an impossible situation which causes her to do things she never thought she was capable of doing. It all leads to secrets, lies and a self-awareness she didn’t have before. Plan Cee shows how Cecelia’s entire life molded her into the woman she has become today.
Hilary Grossman touches your heart with her writing. She has created a realistic cast of characters in realistic situations. I have to admit, I didn’t love Cecelia throughout this book. There were times I wanted to shake her. I couldn’t understand the decisions she made, but I couldn’t stop reading either. I had to know why she did the things she did. This book shows how good people aren’t perfect. You don’t always know what’s going on in someone else’s life and you can’t question their choices. By the end of the book, I was rooting for Cecelia to succeed.
Although this is a sequel to Plan Bea, it can be read on its own but it’s more fun to read both of them. Both books are women’s fiction at its finest.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 8, 2017
How would you react if the man you loved in the past suddenly came back into your life decades later wanting a second chance?
Twenty years ago Cecelia was head over heels in love with Keith, but he never could admit he loved her. So she ended the relationship. She couldn't go on with a man who was only half invested in a relationship.
Cecelia is now happily married to Bryce and they have twin boys. She has a great job and wonderful friends. Life couldn't be better. At a friend’s wedding, Cecelia runs into Keith again. She never thought she would see him again. All of the memories she tried so hard to forget come rushing back causing confusion and upheaval in her life. If Cecelia was so happy with her life, why is she feeling his way?
Keith regretted letting Cecilia a walk away all those years ago and now he will do anything to get her back, even if it means destroying her marriage. He just wanted a second chance with Cee.
When Cecelia's life starts spinning out of control, she turns to her friends for support. Together they devise a plan to help Cecelia find happiness again.
This brilliantly written book had such a real feel to it. The creative plot and characters had me hooked from the start. Reading from both Cecelia and Keith's point of view gave the story a true feeling to what they were both going through. This book is an emotional ride about love, family and friendships. It leaves you pondering the question of what would you do if you found yourself in a similar situation.
Twenty years ago Cecelia was head over heels in love with Keith, but he never could admit he loved her. So she ended the relationship. She couldn't go on with a man who was only half invested in a relationship.
Cecelia is now happily married to Bryce and they have twin boys. She has a great job and wonderful friends. Life couldn't be better. At a friend’s wedding, Cecelia runs into Keith again. She never thought she would see him again. All of the memories she tried so hard to forget come rushing back causing confusion and upheaval in her life. If Cecelia was so happy with her life, why is she feeling his way?
Keith regretted letting Cecilia a walk away all those years ago and now he will do anything to get her back, even if it means destroying her marriage. He just wanted a second chance with Cee.
When Cecelia's life starts spinning out of control, she turns to her friends for support. Together they devise a plan to help Cecelia find happiness again.
This brilliantly written book had such a real feel to it. The creative plot and characters had me hooked from the start. Reading from both Cecelia and Keith's point of view gave the story a true feeling to what they were both going through. This book is an emotional ride about love, family and friendships. It leaves you pondering the question of what would you do if you found yourself in a similar situation.
March 9, 2017
Let me ask you a question, did you ever wonder what happened to your friends? As bloggers, it happens way too frequently. You connect with a blogger and visit each other for a long while, then one day they are gone. What happened to them, where did they go, is all okay? That’s the way we felt after reading Plan Bea by Hilary Grossman. Whatever happened to Bea and Annabel anyways?
Well, now you can find out. In Plan Cee Bea and Annabel are back! As soon as I started reading Plan Cee, it was like seeing your long lost friends across the room. There they were! This time though they are working together to help Cecelia navigate through a series of life altering circumstances. Who is Keith anyways and why are feeling from the past awakened so abruptly?
Well, you’ll have to read Plan Cee and find out for yourself. In case you were wondering, although this is a sequel, Plan Cee reads absolutely fine as a stand alone novel. But why not have the best of both worlds? If you haven’t read Plan Bea, why not read it for free on your mobile device/reader? Hilary is making Plan Bee available for free through March 11th. You can download it HERE.
Once again, Hilary comes through with a cast of characters who will entertain you and make you think about your own life choices. Hilary has a way of bringing her characters to life right before your eyes and they remain in your heart as friends you care about. Grab Plan Bee for free if you haven’t read it, then pickup Plan Cee to continue a journey with your friends.
Well, now you can find out. In Plan Cee Bea and Annabel are back! As soon as I started reading Plan Cee, it was like seeing your long lost friends across the room. There they were! This time though they are working together to help Cecelia navigate through a series of life altering circumstances. Who is Keith anyways and why are feeling from the past awakened so abruptly?
Well, you’ll have to read Plan Cee and find out for yourself. In case you were wondering, although this is a sequel, Plan Cee reads absolutely fine as a stand alone novel. But why not have the best of both worlds? If you haven’t read Plan Bea, why not read it for free on your mobile device/reader? Hilary is making Plan Bee available for free through March 11th. You can download it HERE.
Once again, Hilary comes through with a cast of characters who will entertain you and make you think about your own life choices. Hilary has a way of bringing her characters to life right before your eyes and they remain in your heart as friends you care about. Grab Plan Bee for free if you haven’t read it, then pickup Plan Cee to continue a journey with your friends.
March 14, 2017
It's an aspiring tale of friendships, love, marriage and second chances all around. I couldn’t put this book down after chapter 20! I killed an afternoon finishing it because I had to know how it would end.
The premise centers around Cecelia, her family, friends and marriage to Bryce. In a twisted tale of fate, she is reunited with the one that broke her heart but she never stopped loving, Keith.
Hilary captures the hurdles of friendships, discovery of ones true worth and self respect. The idealist dream that the grass is not always greener on the other side because we are blinded by the fact that we are already on the greener side.
Cee is the kind of woman I want to be friends with because she is independent, strong willed, married to a man who adores her and has an amazing family she adores in return. The trick is when she is faced with a lost love from the past as well as some serious fears of abandonment. She has to learn some hard, painful truths before she can move forward and continue to carry on even stronger than she was before. She must learn the true meaning of friendship and forgiveness. I loved how she learned who her real love was as well as her real friends, those that stuck around to fight with and for her and those that simply used her to their advantage.
The end of the book left me smiling because Hilary captures the sweet gesture of what it means to love someone and what you would do to keep that love alive.
The premise centers around Cecelia, her family, friends and marriage to Bryce. In a twisted tale of fate, she is reunited with the one that broke her heart but she never stopped loving, Keith.
Hilary captures the hurdles of friendships, discovery of ones true worth and self respect. The idealist dream that the grass is not always greener on the other side because we are blinded by the fact that we are already on the greener side.
Cee is the kind of woman I want to be friends with because she is independent, strong willed, married to a man who adores her and has an amazing family she adores in return. The trick is when she is faced with a lost love from the past as well as some serious fears of abandonment. She has to learn some hard, painful truths before she can move forward and continue to carry on even stronger than she was before. She must learn the true meaning of friendship and forgiveness. I loved how she learned who her real love was as well as her real friends, those that stuck around to fight with and for her and those that simply used her to their advantage.
The end of the book left me smiling because Hilary captures the sweet gesture of what it means to love someone and what you would do to keep that love alive.
May 5, 2017
This book was sooo real! It felt like I was reading about a real person not just a character. I kept yelling at my iPad "No no no no no - don't do it!!!" But did she listen to me - Noooo! They never do, those fictional characters, they all have minds of their own. Thank God this had a great ending. If it didn't I don't think I would have liked it as much.
But... this kind of stuff does happen in life - all too often! I had a girlfriend whose husband was cheating on her and a different girlfriend who was cheating on her husband - and I knew she was! She told me she was! How many of you know someone who has cheated? Or had an affair yourself?
Also what really surprised me was that people were convincing her to get in touch with "him". I don't think I would have done that as a friend. See - here I am talking about them as though they are real people not fictional characters! But that's what happens in a great book - they do feel like real people with real problems.
This is real hard stuff, its gritty and to be honest it was hard to read at times. We all know its wrong...
But it sure does make a great plot subject! This story was written with such heart ripping honesty (you know, the kind that rips your heart out). It is sad, sweet, raw, emotional, and oh so very up close and personal.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from the author - Thank You!
But... this kind of stuff does happen in life - all too often! I had a girlfriend whose husband was cheating on her and a different girlfriend who was cheating on her husband - and I knew she was! She told me she was! How many of you know someone who has cheated? Or had an affair yourself?
Also what really surprised me was that people were convincing her to get in touch with "him". I don't think I would have done that as a friend. See - here I am talking about them as though they are real people not fictional characters! But that's what happens in a great book - they do feel like real people with real problems.
This is real hard stuff, its gritty and to be honest it was hard to read at times. We all know its wrong...
But it sure does make a great plot subject! This story was written with such heart ripping honesty (you know, the kind that rips your heart out). It is sad, sweet, raw, emotional, and oh so very up close and personal.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from the author - Thank You!
April 22, 2017
What a great follow-up read to Plan Bea. It was great to see a lot of the characters back again - Bea and her cranky (yet supportive) self and Anna who had it touch in Plan Bea but is the steadfast friend to Cee and trying to help her get her life back on track at the end and so many others...
I'm sure many if us have had that one love who has gotten away, no matter the situation, and the thought of seeing that person again years and years later, what would you do?
Cee was left by the love of her life, Keith, and she never really got over it. She had moved on and married her husband Bryce and they have adorable twin boys together.
One day she attends Bea's wedding to Walter and who walks in the door? Keith!
Cee starts to panic and doesn't know what to do. She can't tell anyone, yet she figures out later that Bea and Walter already know, Walter and Keith being long time friends and all.
What is Cee going to do? Her past comes flooding back to her now and sends her head into a tailspin of emotion.
Can she just forget about Keith and Move on? Can she and Bryce's marriage last after this sighting? It will be a long crazy ride but the end is well worth the wait!
I'm sure many if us have had that one love who has gotten away, no matter the situation, and the thought of seeing that person again years and years later, what would you do?
Cee was left by the love of her life, Keith, and she never really got over it. She had moved on and married her husband Bryce and they have adorable twin boys together.
One day she attends Bea's wedding to Walter and who walks in the door? Keith!
Cee starts to panic and doesn't know what to do. She can't tell anyone, yet she figures out later that Bea and Walter already know, Walter and Keith being long time friends and all.
What is Cee going to do? Her past comes flooding back to her now and sends her head into a tailspin of emotion.
Can she just forget about Keith and Move on? Can she and Bryce's marriage last after this sighting? It will be a long crazy ride but the end is well worth the wait!
March 9, 2017
I am a fan of author Hilary Grossman’s blog and all 3 of her books. Plan Cee is the second in a series picking up right where Plan Bea leaves off. In Plan Bea, a woman and her mother heal their relationship. In Plan Cee, that woman’s friend is the main character. Cecilia seems to have a perfect life with a great job, loving husband and adorable twin boys.
At a wedding, she runs into her old flame that broke her heart. I am not going to give away any details about what she does. I will say that for most of the story, I hated Cecilia, but by the end I liked her. I know I can be too judgemental of people’s choices when I should only worry about my choices. This book made me realize that there are always reasons for choices we make and some have not been blessed to have had positive experiences as children and they carry that into adulthood.
A good book makes you feel strong emotions as well as making you think. I highly recommend Plan Cee as well as Plan Bea and Dangled Carat. Once again, Hilary Grossman doesn’t disappoint.
At a wedding, she runs into her old flame that broke her heart. I am not going to give away any details about what she does. I will say that for most of the story, I hated Cecilia, but by the end I liked her. I know I can be too judgemental of people’s choices when I should only worry about my choices. This book made me realize that there are always reasons for choices we make and some have not been blessed to have had positive experiences as children and they carry that into adulthood.
A good book makes you feel strong emotions as well as making you think. I highly recommend Plan Cee as well as Plan Bea and Dangled Carat. Once again, Hilary Grossman doesn’t disappoint.
March 23, 2017
I have been eagerly awaiting to read Plan Cee after highly enjoying Plan Bea, and whoa – was I not disappointed! Like stated in the synopsis, this book can be read as a standalone though we do meet the characters in Plan Bea, but I would recommend you read that regardless but it’s a great story and gave me joy to catch up with the main characters from that novel. I enjoyed this book because it’s real and honest and shows how people make mistakes and how they cope with the aftermath. There were times it was hard to read because I was sad, I didn’t agree with Cecelia but . . . she’s human. She’s flawed. And she made for such a fantastic heroine. Another solid read from Hilary Grossman. If you don’t her yet on your to-read list, put her on there.
I received a review copy.
I received a review copy.
March 11, 2017
Hilary Grossman’s skill is crafting novels that bring out all sorts of strong emotions in the reader: anger, sadness, fear, frustration, and hope to name a few. Plan Cee was no exception. There were moments I disliked Cee with a passion, yet I also cared for her and had an intense stake in how things turned out. Just like with Plan Bea, the story had a lot of twists and turns and intriguing plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the ending. It was real yet satisfying. I look forward to the author’s next book!
April 3, 2017
Another emotional tale from Hilary Grossman! Who doesn't enjoy reading about the dramas of another, which is exactly what you get with this book! Past lover vs. current lover - you are left guessing who will make the cut until the end. I didn't want to put the book down once I began. Pleasant read for the beach!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review.
April 3, 2017
*An ARC was provided in exchange of an honest review*
This was truly an emotional and riveting read! From the very beginning I was sucked into the story! My heart ached and I was on one heck of an emotional rollercoaster with this one. Cee's story put me through it, I think because some of us have been in a similar situation. I highly suggest this read! You will be hooked!!!
This was truly an emotional and riveting read! From the very beginning I was sucked into the story! My heart ached and I was on one heck of an emotional rollercoaster with this one. Cee's story put me through it, I think because some of us have been in a similar situation. I highly suggest this read! You will be hooked!!!
Read
March 24, 2017When I heard that Hilary Grossman would be writing a sequel to “Plan Bea,” I knew I had to read it! Once I started reading, I did not want to stop. From the first book, I loved Cecelia’s character, so I was eager to get to know her better!
While on the outside, her life seems perfect, when her past comes back to haunt her, in more ways than one–things get out of the way control–and fast.
There were so many times I was clutching my stomach and wondering what Cee would do and how she’d handle whatever situation came up, but she didn’t disappoint. After all, when a lover comes back in the picture, it’s normal to wonder “what if,” even though she’s now married with twin boys. While I’m not as brave or would be so easily tempted (especially if I was happy in my marriage), in the end, I understand why she did. With each swipe of the page, there were great twists, which, thankfully, turned out for the best.
As for the ending, I was in tears. Cee made the right choice on which path she wanted to be on, and I applaud the author for making what I think was the right choice, mainly for the fact that some people never change…I’m not going to give any spoilers, but…WOW! My only issue with this book was that I wanted to see how once she made her choice life would be for her.
This is a must-read book would be perfect for a day at the beach!
I give “Plan Cee” 5 stars!
While on the outside, her life seems perfect, when her past comes back to haunt her, in more ways than one–things get out of the way control–and fast.
There were so many times I was clutching my stomach and wondering what Cee would do and how she’d handle whatever situation came up, but she didn’t disappoint. After all, when a lover comes back in the picture, it’s normal to wonder “what if,” even though she’s now married with twin boys. While I’m not as brave or would be so easily tempted (especially if I was happy in my marriage), in the end, I understand why she did. With each swipe of the page, there were great twists, which, thankfully, turned out for the best.
As for the ending, I was in tears. Cee made the right choice on which path she wanted to be on, and I applaud the author for making what I think was the right choice, mainly for the fact that some people never change…I’m not going to give any spoilers, but…WOW! My only issue with this book was that I wanted to see how once she made her choice life would be for her.
This is a must-read book would be perfect for a day at the beach!
I give “Plan Cee” 5 stars!
March 31, 2017
Hilary Grossman is a new author for me. I don't know how I didn't know about her before! I loved her writing style. I haven't read a lot of women's fiction..I am more of a suspense/thriller and historical fiction reader. But this cover caught my eye and the synopsis grabbed me.
Now that I know there's a first book, Plan Bea, I gotta read it! Her writing is so realistic and relatable. I really enjoyed how she portrays the struggles that we face in lives while still keeping it readable and enjoyable. This book encompasses love, friendship, secrets, family, and romance. Making this is a great read, especially for the beach or a rainy day.
For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
Now that I know there's a first book, Plan Bea, I gotta read it! Her writing is so realistic and relatable. I really enjoyed how she portrays the struggles that we face in lives while still keeping it readable and enjoyable. This book encompasses love, friendship, secrets, family, and romance. Making this is a great read, especially for the beach or a rainy day.
For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
March 20, 2017
*Book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Plan Cee is Hilary Grossman’s third book and it’s also the sequel to Plan Bea. You can read it as a standalone, but I would recommend reading Annabel’s and Bea’s story first, because you already now the characters.
This one follows Cecelia Reynolds is happily married to Bryce, but then she sees Keith again, it’s been 20 years. So the past kind of comes back to “haunt” her and it makes her think about her feelings. It covers love, family and friendship and it’s written in a very addictive way.
I was hooked immediately, more than with Plan Bea and that made me really excited. It’s all about the “What If” and connects the past with the present in a really clever way.
The plot has some intriguing twists, but there were moments I didn’t like Cecelia’s actions and decisions. That’s the only thing that disturbed me a little though ;). Hilary Grossman captured the emotions beautifully and managed to create a fab storyline. I want more!!!
4.5/5
Plan Cee is Hilary Grossman’s third book and it’s also the sequel to Plan Bea. You can read it as a standalone, but I would recommend reading Annabel’s and Bea’s story first, because you already now the characters.
This one follows Cecelia Reynolds is happily married to Bryce, but then she sees Keith again, it’s been 20 years. So the past kind of comes back to “haunt” her and it makes her think about her feelings. It covers love, family and friendship and it’s written in a very addictive way.
I was hooked immediately, more than with Plan Bea and that made me really excited. It’s all about the “What If” and connects the past with the present in a really clever way.
The plot has some intriguing twists, but there were moments I didn’t like Cecelia’s actions and decisions. That’s the only thing that disturbed me a little though ;). Hilary Grossman captured the emotions beautifully and managed to create a fab storyline. I want more!!!
4.5/5
March 14, 2017
The third book of Hilary's that I have read but I feel this one is the best so far.
An uncomfortable topic - the question of "what if".
Cecilia starts off as a simple character but as the story develops so does the complexity of her person and the choices she makes.
You want to yell at her so many times at the choices and decisions she takes; but deep in your heart you get the feeling that you understand in part why she makes the decisions she does.
This story is not a fluffy romance but a thought provoking book that examines the effects our decisions have on not only ourselves but our loved ones too.
The ending hints at a possible conclusion/resolution but leaves you to decide how you think things ultimately turned out.
Cecilia is a complex person and I finished the book undecided as to how I felt about her, but she'll stay with me a long time.
Thank you Hilary for the opportunity to read this book.
An uncomfortable topic - the question of "what if".
Cecilia starts off as a simple character but as the story develops so does the complexity of her person and the choices she makes.
You want to yell at her so many times at the choices and decisions she takes; but deep in your heart you get the feeling that you understand in part why she makes the decisions she does.
This story is not a fluffy romance but a thought provoking book that examines the effects our decisions have on not only ourselves but our loved ones too.
The ending hints at a possible conclusion/resolution but leaves you to decide how you think things ultimately turned out.
Cecilia is a complex person and I finished the book undecided as to how I felt about her, but she'll stay with me a long time.
Thank you Hilary for the opportunity to read this book.
March 10, 2017
I have mixed feelings about this book. The main character, Cecilia, has her issues (as do most people) but when faced with the supposed love of her life, Keith, from 20 years ago, she throws everything she has now away (or so it seems). She is trying to figure out if she missed out on something or not. We have probably all been at that point in our lives but perhaps made different choices.
Keith is another matter, he seems to have regretted letting Cecilia walk away from him...but as the story continues, I wondered if he was really sad she left or if he just wanted a fling because she was married and he still wouldn't have to commit.
I did like seeing characters from Plan Bea continue in this story, I liked picking right back up where that story left off. The dynamic of the friends and family is probably similar to one you have in your own life. There are ups and downs and the ties of friendship are truly tested in this book.
I have to say I wasn't thrilled with Cecilia and her actions. She redeemed herself to me at the end and the story ended where we don't really know what is going to happen to Cecilia and her husband, Bryce. Perhaps another book is in the works?
Keith is another matter, he seems to have regretted letting Cecilia walk away from him...but as the story continues, I wondered if he was really sad she left or if he just wanted a fling because she was married and he still wouldn't have to commit.
I did like seeing characters from Plan Bea continue in this story, I liked picking right back up where that story left off. The dynamic of the friends and family is probably similar to one you have in your own life. There are ups and downs and the ties of friendship are truly tested in this book.
I have to say I wasn't thrilled with Cecilia and her actions. She redeemed herself to me at the end and the story ended where we don't really know what is going to happen to Cecilia and her husband, Bryce. Perhaps another book is in the works?
March 13, 2018
I liked Plan Bea so much that I had to get this book! I actually read Plan Bea as a part of the QBD and I really liked the writing style. So here I am with this second book.
The writing style was great and I love all the characters already, so that was a plus. In this book I wasn't the biggest fan of the storyline, but hey it just holds up a mirror to the flawed nature of us humans.
Also, how clever are the book titles?! LOVE!
Will there be a Plan Dee next? **fingers crossed**
The writing style was great and I love all the characters already, so that was a plus. In this book I wasn't the biggest fan of the storyline, but hey it just holds up a mirror to the flawed nature of us humans.
Also, how clever are the book titles?! LOVE!
Will there be a Plan Dee next? **fingers crossed**
February 11, 2017
After reading Plan Bea I knew instinctively I would enjoy this one. We meet up again with Bea, Walter, Anna and Cole. But this story revolves primarily around Anna's best friend Cecelia.
Cee is happily married to Bryce has toddler twin sons and all is well until they attend Bea and Walter's wedding. Cee has the shock of her life when she realises the official at the marriage is a heart-breaker from her past.
This is a brilliant tale that explores how our thoughts, actions and reactions can affect us from childhood and throughout our lives. So many questions revolve around in Cee's head, what, why, how and the biggest regret of all 'What If'?
After the initial shock Cee doesn't really take anyone else's feelings into consideration. She has suffered assumed rejection all of her life and now isn't going to be any different.
She manages to alienate her friends along with her husband to a point where she only thinks of herself. I sympathised with her at the beginning but as the book progresses her actions become increasingly selfish .. will she see the light before it's too late!?
This kept me glued to the page, during the first book Bea was a difficult/obnoxious woman, it was nice to see how she has changed. Anna is a sweetie who has Cee's best interests at heart as does Meredith but Cee can't always see/think straight. I particularly liked the beach location it made it a pleasure to imagine lazing in the sunshine.
An enjoyable book that actually makes the reader stop and ponder some life events. It does follow on from Plan Bea but can easily be read as a stand-alone if you so desire.
Thanks to Hilary for my ARC .. I read and reviewed this voluntarily.
Cee is happily married to Bryce has toddler twin sons and all is well until they attend Bea and Walter's wedding. Cee has the shock of her life when she realises the official at the marriage is a heart-breaker from her past.
This is a brilliant tale that explores how our thoughts, actions and reactions can affect us from childhood and throughout our lives. So many questions revolve around in Cee's head, what, why, how and the biggest regret of all 'What If'?
After the initial shock Cee doesn't really take anyone else's feelings into consideration. She has suffered assumed rejection all of her life and now isn't going to be any different.
She manages to alienate her friends along with her husband to a point where she only thinks of herself. I sympathised with her at the beginning but as the book progresses her actions become increasingly selfish .. will she see the light before it's too late!?
This kept me glued to the page, during the first book Bea was a difficult/obnoxious woman, it was nice to see how she has changed. Anna is a sweetie who has Cee's best interests at heart as does Meredith but Cee can't always see/think straight. I particularly liked the beach location it made it a pleasure to imagine lazing in the sunshine.
An enjoyable book that actually makes the reader stop and ponder some life events. It does follow on from Plan Bea but can easily be read as a stand-alone if you so desire.
Thanks to Hilary for my ARC .. I read and reviewed this voluntarily.
June 24, 2017
I love Hilary Grossman's books. This was no exception.
One thing I really like about this book in particular was how deeply each character was explored. I had very strong feelings about/toward each character and, in turn, the events that occurred. There is a realness about each of the characters, that, even if I didn't agree with one, or hated what one was doing/saying, I felt that I could still understand why the character said or did what he or she said or did.
Similarly, as an author, she does not shy away from real feelings, consequences, or reactions. That was shown perfectly in this book.
I am already looking forward to her next book 🙂
Lisa Beacom, the narrator or the audiobook was wonderful. A couple times, I found myself forgetting if I was listening to Cecilia or Keith's section because the voices were somewhat similar, but it was typically easy to distinguish. I have listened to her narration before and would love to hear more!
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I really like about this book in particular was how deeply each character was explored. I had very strong feelings about/toward each character and, in turn, the events that occurred. There is a realness about each of the characters, that, even if I didn't agree with one, or hated what one was doing/saying, I felt that I could still understand why the character said or did what he or she said or did.
Similarly, as an author, she does not shy away from real feelings, consequences, or reactions. That was shown perfectly in this book.
I am already looking forward to her next book 🙂
Lisa Beacom, the narrator or the audiobook was wonderful. A couple times, I found myself forgetting if I was listening to Cecilia or Keith's section because the voices were somewhat similar, but it was typically easy to distinguish. I have listened to her narration before and would love to hear more!
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2017
Sequel to "Plan Bea" so I had higher expectations for it be more polished and better editing. I was once again disappointed that so many books are being published with so many typos, incorrect spellings and grammatical errors. I took away a star just because I couldn't understand the reason for Cecelia's behavior...so frustrating yet predictable!
November 15, 2017
Book 2
A manual of sorts of what to do and not do when adults do exhibit stupid behavior. Great read. Definitely a good read
A manual of sorts of what to do and not do when adults do exhibit stupid behavior. Great read. Definitely a good read
December 31, 2017
Book that had me interested from the first few pages, I just had to find out more about Cecelia and Keith.
Just what was Keith all about and why did his presence at Beatrice's wedding cause Cee so many problems?
As the story progressed, I struggled to have much sympathy at times with Cee, its not that she is a bad person, just seemed to struggle to make good decisions.
Then again I wasn't overly enamoured by Keith either. In fact the characters I liked the best were Bryce, Cee's husband, and Walter, Beatrice's husband.
This is the sequel to Plan Bea, and although you don't need to have read the first book to know what is going on in this one, it does give a better foundation for your knowledge of some of the characters.
I enjoyed the writing, and the story is a reasonably quick one to read. I was though surprised by the rather abrupt ending, especially as the book finished at 89% which I found slightly off putting.
Overall I have enjoyed the second book that I have read by the author and I will be curious to see what the next one will be.
Thank you to Hilary Grossman for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Just what was Keith all about and why did his presence at Beatrice's wedding cause Cee so many problems?
As the story progressed, I struggled to have much sympathy at times with Cee, its not that she is a bad person, just seemed to struggle to make good decisions.
Then again I wasn't overly enamoured by Keith either. In fact the characters I liked the best were Bryce, Cee's husband, and Walter, Beatrice's husband.
This is the sequel to Plan Bea, and although you don't need to have read the first book to know what is going on in this one, it does give a better foundation for your knowledge of some of the characters.
I enjoyed the writing, and the story is a reasonably quick one to read. I was though surprised by the rather abrupt ending, especially as the book finished at 89% which I found slightly off putting.
Overall I have enjoyed the second book that I have read by the author and I will be curious to see what the next one will be.
Thank you to Hilary Grossman for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 14, 2017
History repeats itself and destroys our lives
This story is well written and compelling. The leading characters are tragic, and full out unanswered questions and regrets. I found myself wanting to scream at her "look at what you have, and you're throwing it away". I won't go into the plot, because you have to read it, in order not to hate her for destroying a wonderful man, for a memory. I kind of bias when it comes to cheating so take my review with a grain of salt.
This story is well written and compelling. The leading characters are tragic, and full out unanswered questions and regrets. I found myself wanting to scream at her "look at what you have, and you're throwing it away". I won't go into the plot, because you have to read it, in order not to hate her for destroying a wonderful man, for a memory. I kind of bias when it comes to cheating so take my review with a grain of salt.
March 31, 2021
Great characterization and interesting story, but ends so abruptly. I understand that this is part of a series, but in the author’s other works, each start can stand on its own. This story, due to the ending, fails in that aspect.
July 3, 2017
Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings
The second in a series, but this is one of those series where the second book centers around a different character than book one, so yes a series, but two separate works that are linked. I loved book one, so check out Plan Bea.
Plan Cee centers around Cecelia who had a hard childhood and still bears the pain from those years. She runs into a past boyfriend and he turns her world upside down and she must confront those demons of the past so she can actually move forward.
The second in a series, but this is one of those series where the second book centers around a different character than book one, so yes a series, but two separate works that are linked. I loved book one, so check out Plan Bea.
Plan Cee centers around Cecelia who had a hard childhood and still bears the pain from those years. She runs into a past boyfriend and he turns her world upside down and she must confront those demons of the past so she can actually move forward.
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