The Baby Pact

by Lexi Whitlow

She's desperate to have my baby.
Eliza Lane was the good girl in town, until I got a hold of her.
I ruined her, and she gave it right back.
Now she’s back in town, on the run from her abusive ex-husband.
She needs help — and she’s ready to start a family.

She just doesn’t want the whole marriage thing that goes along with it.
Fine by me. I’m a billion dollar playboy,
and after I split with Eliza, I never wanted to settle down.
Her luscious curves are making me want to sign up for the job of Baby Daddy anyway.

Once I get a taste of her,
the old addiction returns.
This good girl turns bad just for me.
Now it's my mission to make her and our future baby all mine —
and I’ll move heaven and earth to protect her if anyone stands in our way.

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Second Chance, Abuse, Amazon, Adult

329 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2017

About the author

Lexi Whitlow is a small-town girl with big dreams. She spent her early years growing up between Virginia and North Carolina, playing in the dark rich dirt of Eastern North Carolina at her granddaddy's farm. She's a Southern as can be, and she spends her days chasing her five-year-old and her puggle (that's a pug-beagle hybrid, folks) and writing her ass off.

She holds a master's degree in English literature, and her mom is so proud she's "using her degree."

Lexi harbors a not-so-secret love for bad boys. She loves fighters, tough-as-nails cowboys, bikers, and criminals. Her husband is a scientist... but he has the heart of a bad boy for sure. She spends what little free time she has crocheting, painting, and going on long walks with her family.

Reviews

[Hanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lexi Whitlow delivers again a sweet, touching, beautiful, romantic and a little suspenseful story. It deals with some difficult subjects, but it makes the ending even more beautiful. I loved the epilogue! I liked The Baby Pact a lot!

Eliza and Macon met each other when they were teenagers and they fell in love. They were opposites and their mothers didn’t want them to be together, but their love was very strong. They thought they would be together forever, until something happened and their relationship was suddenly over.

A couple of years later, Eliza is on the run from her abusive ex husband. It looks like she’s finally safe and now she wants to fulfill her dream: having a baby. It won’t be easy, but she wants it. One day, she gets a phone call from Macon. He discovered that they’re in the same town and he wants to see her. Eliza can use Macon’s help and they make a pact. Macon hopes that the pact will bring him closer again to Eliza and he wants to help her with her dream.

Macon and Eliza are great characters. Macon is a smart, rich, successful and loving man. He has never forgotten Eliza and he will always want her. He would do anything for her and he only wants the best for her. When Eliza needs help, Macon is always there for her. Eliza doesn’t trust easily, but she trusts Macon. Eliza is a sweet, caring, determined and damaged woman. I hoped that she would be happy again soon. She loves being with Macon and Macon loves to spoil her.

-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --

[Tpagirl Loves Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Baby Pact by Lexi Whitlow was a stand-alone and the first book I’ve read by the author, but definitely not the last. It was a tough subject and can spur abuse triggers in some.

Eliza and Macon were high school sweethearts that buckled under the first sign of trouble, with help from their negative and controlling single mothers. They had heartbreak and moved on. Eliza to a controlling and abusive man and Macon to thousands of one night stands. Their paths crossed again nine years later when Eliza was running scared, weak and broken and Macon was an arrogant billionaire.

It was told from a dual POV. I had mixed feelings about Macon. At times I loved him - his child like vulnerability with the strength and alpha demeanor. Then at others, I loathed his arrogant and cocky ass. As for Eliza, I liked her. True to the story, Whitlow revealed her weak and broken persona - the result of being mentally and physically beaten down over years. I’m not a fan of weak, but to be realistic, it had to be that way. But I loved the underlying strength that kept her waking up every day putting one foot in front of the other to keep moving forward past her circumstances.

In the end, I was completely won over by Macon and Eliza and totally hooked with the mystery and events from Macon. It kept a suspenseful and intriguing vibe running among the relationship development. I also loved how Whitlow ended the story - it wasn’t abrupt but she continued to tell the story with a flow that left me satisfied but also not wanting it to end. Kudos to Whitlow, I’ll definitely explore her other works.

[BJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love a number of books from this author but I did not like this book. They are childhood sweethearts, but I thought she was weak person and I lost interest in the H. He's drifting through life with women and booze. She wants a baby but much of the story involves her being drunk. I just could not relate to the OTT plot or their drama.

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/08/2017)! 💝

[Mona Livsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreakingly Intense, Emotionally Charged, Life Affirming Journey of Love Found, Life Lost, and Finally Redeemed!
Author Lexi Whitlow takes you on the Journey of two Star-crossed Lovers whose lives will never be the same again!
Following the life journey of Eliza and Macon as the fall in love as youngsters only to lose everything mostly due to their youth and their families. Separation doesn't make them forget only long for what was. As they meet up again as young adults, free of their home town and familial ties. There is a spark but there are others that are between them. College life lends to distance as well as people to keep them apart. While one grows to fame and fortune, the other lives in a dark world of fear, loss, and a degrading sense of self. Years later these two lives intersect when they least expect it, brought together by a mutual friend. The sparks are still there, but what will come from that spark? Where one is willing to throw everything away jus to be together again, the other is afraid. The fear of the past that is hunting Eliza could destroy everything that they are trying to rebuild. The characters in this story are deeply tied together no matter what has come through their lives. The author has a way of "fleshing out" her characters so that you feel as if you know them, you start to feel for the tragedies and triumphs they go through time and time again. You feel the fear Eliza lives through, the passion she and Macon share s they try to rebuild the life together they lost soany years ago.
I recommend this story to anyone who loves a deep love story and can handle the emotional ups and downs that this story will lead you on.
Excellent, Heart-Stopping Emotion, Well Done!🌺

[Jenny Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book with the understanding that I could leave a voluntary and honest review.

In this book we meet Eliza Carver and Macon Sands. These two are high school sweethearts, but one night changes everything for the. Years later they meet up again in college but the timing again isn't right. One day the day seems to be right for them to meet up again this time with their mutual college friend Danica. Macon knows that Eliza is the one that got away and really wants a second chance to make up for the pain he cause her all those years ago. So while she is a little intoxicated she tells him that she wants a baby. Macon never saw himself as the dad type but is determined to make sure that Eliza has everything he can giver he including his swimmers. Can they make this work and will it just result in a baby or will this be a true second chance for this couple?

This is an amazing story about two people who find out some things about life way to young and then have to navigate their own lives. There are many ups and downs in this story that I want to tell you all about but don't want to ruin it for any other readers. I will say this book will hook you in from the first word to the very end. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

[Marbea Logan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nonstop intensive,passionate,enlightening,edge of your seat emotional read. The author was thorough,thoughtful and intuitive to and about the characters. So many lessons to learn,and obstacles to overcome. Being an Ovarian Cancer survivor,and starting with endometriosis continuing to two hysterectomies I know Eliza's character pains. The women in my mom's family have the same genetics. I'm the only one whose developed Ovarian Cancer and went through chemotherapy and radiology to remove fibrous cancerous tumors eating up my internal organs. I was told I couldn't have children because of the severity of my endometriosis,but had two healthy kids no medical help needed. But having those blessings led to me almost bleeding to death right after giving birth to a healthy babygirl and subsequently fibrous tumors becoming malignant etc etc. This story of all the Lexy Whitlow books is my favorite and will be most memorable one of all!!

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Baby Pact by Lexi Whitlow is a very good read. I feel that the book description really fails to do this book justice. Do not be fooled. This is a complex, emotional story. It deals with the sensitive and painful subjects of spousal abuse and stalking. It also showcases the struggle to deal with fertility issues. At it's heart it is a beautiful second chance romance. These characters shall touch your heart. Eliza has made a few bad choices and has suffered more than anyone should have to for them. Macon has made mistakes and lives with the regrets from them everyday. These characters are damaged and that is reflected in this books storyline. I fell in love with this book. It is an intensely emotional, sexy, love story that you are sure to remember for a long time after you finish reading it. I am posting an honest review after reading an ARC copy of this book.

[Angala Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This was a great romance. I loved the story and the main two characters. Definitely recommend this must read.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book- Eliza and Macon were best friends and then more. They have a second chance when she returns to town hiding and healing from a terrible marriage. Macon offers to be the guy Eliza needs, no strings attached until he falls hard. Loved it!! Deals with a lot of difficult issues so effortlessly

[Marcy Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book touches on some very sensitive topics. It begins with the financial inequities between teenagers. This first love results in an unplanned pregnancy. A pregnancy that causes both sets of parents to step in and pull their child away from the love they felt. Eliza and Macon are separated and their lives take very different paths.

10 years later, Eliza is on the run from a dysfunctional marriage. She has been physically and emotionally abused. After a few false starts, she believes that she has made it to safety. Her friend Danica is in Charlotte, NC and so Eliza runs there. She is frightened but terribly tired of being on the run. She feels that perhaps she can blend into her new life. She had been able to secure a divorce due to his lack of appearance or appeal of her request for the dissolution of their marriage. Now she is going to find a way to make a family for herself. She will try anything, including an anonymous sperm donor and IVF, to become a mom.

Danica is the pivot point for Eliza and Macon. Macon, too, has sort of settled in the area. He is no longer that boy in ill fitting clothing yearning for the well bred girl that was taken from him. After successfully building a new manner of coding, and selling off his fist lucrative company, he has gone from millionaire to billionaire. However, he has never forgotten his first love. He has no difficulty finding beautiful women to eventually bring to bed. None are able to break through his toughened exterior because none of them are Eliza.

It is through Danica that he learns of Eliza's abusive and frightening ex. She is there is town and he is now capable of coming to her rescue. He thinks that he is going to protect her from harm. What he couldn't have predicted is that he would offer to assist Eliza in other ways. Will this reclusive billionaire be able to protect his first love and make her dreams come true? Is this the second chance that he screwed up on once before? How far is Macon able to go for Eliza? Will he rule with the power that comes from wealth or will he rule with this heart?

My quick synopsis doesn't do justice to these strong and determined characters. You will absorb the feelings of fear and love and teenage heartache. You will question the evil that comes from an abusive spouse and may even go back and question the actions of the parents who pull apart two teens who make a mistake. Nothing feels predictable. This is a story of deep friendship and love that is always in the background. Will Eliza find safety, be able to conceive a child and become the one thing that has continuously been taken from her? Will motherhood erase the pain of losing Macon as a teen and surviving an abusive marriage? Will finding Macon again be her second chance? Is money the great divide or the answer to her prayers? Will the reclusive billionaire allow his heart to guide him? He finally has money and the power and control that comes with it. Will this be the time that he gets the girl; a girl that seems as disinterested in his money as she feels interested in the man?

Spousal abuse is a serious crime. When reading this book, be angry that Eliza has been victimized. There are no social differences between the abused. The physical damage is an equalizer whether wealthy or poor. Although this is a book about second chances and the power of money, the reader should not forget that abuse in a marriage, or a relationship, is depravity. Don't forget that the physical and emotional scars that are left are a constant reminder of fear.

Not every abused spouse has friends to protect her. Too many don't trust anyone with the shame of being abused. Many stay with their abuser for fear of worsening abuse or threats against loved ones. Being brave is difficult when one is being hurt. The damage to physical self and ego can overwhelm even the most sensible people. There is an opportunity in this book to let the abused know that they do not need to stay with an abuser. Even without friends who have wealth and power, there are resources out there. That lesson, or reminder, should be prominent, even if the reason for reading and liking the book are based in the love story and second chances.

My review is dedicated to all those who break the cycle of abuse. To those who find the inner strength to believe that they deserve better. To the friends who are there during difficult times and to the resources that exist to help victims of domestic abuse.

Money helps but at the end of the day, every spouse who leaves a situation of domestic abuse has riches far greater that financial wealth. They have regained their sense of self worth and whatever steps they take to find security and a place/time to start over is priceless.

[Janine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably moves toward 4.5/5 for me. This was a really nice story about two people that deserve happiness and love in their lives. Fairly well edited.

Macon and Eliza have known each other since elementary school and were high school sweethearts. Just before graduation, Eliza became pregnant with Macon's baby, and both of their mothers decided to keep them apart. Eliza lost the baby and Macon went to college. A year later, Macon goes to meet a new girl, Danica, at a frat party and is stunned to see Eliza at the same party. Unfortunately, she is with her new boyfriend, Alex, who quickly takes her away from reuniting with Macon. Macon tries unsuccessfully to see Eliza, and rather quickly gives up and moves on with his life. Nearly 10 years later, Macon's life is one huge success. He is in Charleston on business and meets his college friend, Danica, for dinner. Here, he learns that Eliza is finally divorced from Alex, and amazingly, is in Charleston. Danica is intent on setting her friends up, in the hopes that old sparks might reignite. Eliza has finally escaped from Alex, and is hoping to start a new life for herself. She also hopes that she will be able to have a baby on her own. With a little meddling from Danica, Macon makes Eliza an offer - he will help in her quest to have a baby. Will Eliza get her dream fulfilled? Will her dream have room for Macon? Is Alex truly a part of the past? Will Macon make room in his life for Eliza? And if he does, will Eliza trust him to really love her and not try to control her?

This one was really quite enjoyable. Both of the main characters were people deserving of a HEA. Eliza had been through so much, and just wanted to start a new life without fear. Macon had never been encouraged as a child, and he just wanted to be wanted and needed. Both people had baggage to overcome, and they realized that together, they could overcome anything. A great afternoon read. Enjoy!

[PointedlyBlunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Macon and Eliza were each other’s first love. At just 18 y/o, they got pregnant, infuriating both of their mom’s. After their forced separation, Eliza experiences a tragic miscarriage that cements her break from Macon into permanence. Over a year later, they come into contact again at a college party. Macon is eager to talk and start over, but Eliza’s controlling older boyfriend, Alex, steps in and prevents it. Now ten years later, Eliza is running from her past and desperate for a baby. And Macon is only too willing to help out.

Macon is pretty much the sweetest and most understanding man in the world with the patience of a Saint. After reconnecting with Eliza, he’s eager to make up for lost time, but he puts her needs before his own, constantly. He’s decisive and assertive without being controlling. I only wish Eliza was as easy to like. I understand why she’s hesitant and nervous, but her lack of faith in Macon got old. It’s hard to teach an old dog a new habit, but it felt like she didn’t even want to try most of the time.

In tandem with a second-chance romance plot is a focus on Eliza’s history with Alex and why she’s running. I’m not asking for brutally blunt descriptions of domestic violence, but most of the information about her past was too vague and inconsistent to follow. She gave bits of information to Macon here and there, but I wanted a full-out confrontation to get everything out in the open. I wanted an “a-ha!” moment, but instead I was spoon fed every few chapters. The same applies to Macon's plot towards the end (vague to prevent spoilers). I'm not even sure if Eliza actually knows what he did and how he did it. Thankfully, Macon’s character drove this story and made it enjoyable.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa Menor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Macon Sands, successful, billionaire playboy, still remembers his first time with high school sweetheart Eliza. He remembers her eyes, her body. He remembers the entire night. He also remembers not telling Eliza his true feelings; something he's regretted ever since. Especially now, years later, when he learns about the abuse she's suffered from her ex husband Alex.
Ten years ago they were just kids. Ten years ago, they were young, in love and invincible. Ten years ago it all blew up. Years later their paths cross but they never reconnect until Eliza returns home without Alex. As much as Macon would like to reunite with Eliza, they are both very different now. Macon is rich, famous and enjoys the single life. Eliza desperately wants a baby with no entanglements....no husband.
They had a history that, at one time, included love and hope for the future. Their past and present collide, but not before her past with Alex catches up to her. Alex is a bad guy. He is abusive and he makes no apologies for mistreating Eliza.
Today is different. Eliza has Macon in her life again and he vows to do everything in his power to keep her safe.
Eliza and Macon share a past filled with loss and heartbreak. They find themselves wanting more, but will they be able to get over the hurt and the pain from the past, to get their second chance at love? Has fate brought them back together only to tear them apart once more?
This is a heartbreaking story of love and loss. Between the flirting and harmless innuendos, is the real truth. True love never dies.
AWESOME, WELL WRITTEN STORY WITH COMPLEX CHARACTERS !  SMOKING HOT CHEMISTRY WITH LOTS OF INTOXICATING, SOUL SHATTERING SEX ! !  AMAZING READ !

[Joanne Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Macon and Aliza were together when they were young. Aliza had gotten pregnant and then they took Macon away. Aliza though loses the baby so she emails Macon to let him know. The next time she sees him is years later.

She has been running from her ex husband for the past row years and she winds up running into Macon. She knows that he is very much the playboy but he was excited to see her.ge She tells him what has been happening and that she was trying to get her life on track and one of those bucket list items was to have a baby. Her friend an OB-GYN suggest IVF so she was now looking for a sperm donor.

Danica knows that Aliza should ask Macon which she finally does and he agrees setting all the paperwork in motion. So that their child would want for nothing. He even agreed that he did not have to be involved with the child it was up to Aliza.

Aliza has been trying not to remember the harm done to her body by her ex and other factors. Macon told her he would pay for the IFV. But, meanwhile Macon and Aliza start to have feeling for one another again. They go to find the results of IVF and found out none of the eggs were viable. Dienna tells her they can restart again in 3 months but of course Aliza is heartbroken.

Aliza comes to find out that her ex is hot on her trail. Macon finds out and puts a security detail on Aliza. Macon decides to take Aliza to a small inlets island that had a house he renovated so he can keep her safe. Alex her ex is close to were she is staying and Aliza is afraid that her sister and kids will be targeted.

Macon has a plan of his own to get to her ex and puts it in motion. Will Aliza and Macon get their HEA

[Jaime Fertal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Macon and Eliza meet when they were young and Macon was the nerd at School while Eliza was more popular, during a dance in High School Macon finally made his move. Prom night came and they lost their virginity to each other and that night would change both of their lives forever when a pregnancy begins and separates them due to their parents. While Macon goes of to live his life and start making his Millions Eliza lives through the loss of their baby. 10 years will pass before they will see each other again and Eliza is different now that she has had an ex from Hell.

What I enjoyed most about The Baby Pact was watching how fast Macon was willing to jump in to help Eliza's dreams come true of becoming a mother even if he wasnt in the picture, but watching him change into a better man the longer he spends time with her, watching Eliza and all the pain she has suffered and everything she is willing to go through to have a baby and her willing to do it along as to never have a man who will rule her life again.

This book was an amazing read. This book has Eliza a woman who has loved and lost so much and finally moved on but not with the right guy, Macon a man who is in Collage see's Eliza again after all their time apart and sees that she is different and that her boyfriend is kind of possessive then they lose all contact for 10 years when she is running for her life from her past and her ex husband, Eliza has one plan that is to have a baby, Macon has a plan to help but then has more plans to keep her his forever, a second chance at love. If you like stories like this, then The Baby Pact is a must!

[Karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. I was absolutely drawn into this story from the very beginning. I really enjoyed the roller coaster of a ride this story had me on from the very beginning. It was so full of emotion. From what happened to Eliza and Macon at the beginning of the book to to everything they went through to finally get what they so richly deserved. I not only cried about all the heartache and trauma that Eliza went through. I also cried tears of happiness when she was finally able to overcome all that happened to her and finally achieve the one thing she always wanted. The two had so many things working against them and were so young at the beginning to be able to fight for what they wanted. Macon, because of Eliza's belief in is ability to make something of himself made sure even though they were separated that he made them a reality. Upon meeting again the two realize they still had very strong feelings for one another. Eliza, because of what took place with her ex, Alex was hesitant at first. Macon was there for her and wanted her to remain in his life and did everything he could to protect her and keep her. I loved this story and Eliza and Macon were one hot,k sexy and steamy couple. I was glad to see that eventually the two were able to get the HEA they always wanted.

[Jin · Rating 4 out of 5]

second chance at love for Eliza and Macon.
they were high school sweethearts and Eliza became pregnant before high school ends. soon as both family finds out about her pregnancy, they were separated. Macon was sent to his uncle’s and straight to college and Eliza was back home alone. however, Eliza lost her baby.
couple years later they both see each other at a party but Eliza was with someone else and Macon lost his chance to talk to her.
close 10 years later, Eliza is back in town and Danica (their close friend for both) asks Macon to help her anyway he can. he is not a geek in college anymore. he is a billionaire and a player.
finally Macon meets Eliza. She doesn’t look like the Eliza he knew back then. Eliza looks she is scared and looks sad. when he invites her to his boat, he finds out something happens in her marriage. she struggled with physical, verbal abuse from his ex husband and she is starting a new life back in town.
now Eliza wants to have family of her own with help of her friend Danica and sperm donor. Macon wants to help Eliza in anyway even if he is only sperm donor. they agreed on a pact to create a baby but through ivf.
slowly Eliza is opening up to Macon and she is finding her footing but she still lives in fear of her husband finding her. when she realizes her ex husband has found her she is ready to leave everything behind.
Macon will use all his resources to help Eliza and protect her from her abusive ex husband.

this book was emotional roller coaster from beginning to the end. Eliza and Macon’s love was beautiful and amazing. i enjoyed reading it.
i voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Bellereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eliza and Macon will make you heart swell and your fingers singe with their sweet and sexy second chance HEA! Eliza has wanted nothing more for years than the joy of becoming a mother. First it was ripped away from her along with the love she had with Macon Sands. Then fate dealt her an even crueler blow at the hands of her ex husband who years tormented and hurt her and then took from her the one thing she wanted most. Now that she is finally free of his clutches she is determined to finally become the mother we always wanted to be even if the odds are stacked against her - now she just needs a suitable donor. Macon always loved Eliza Carver and since the day she was no longer his he has been listlessly coasting through his life. He has achieved financial and personal success, but it's hollow and very lonely. When he finds out that she is back and single he is intrigued, especially once he hears her plan - a baby is something he can definitely help her achieve ;). As they draw up the contract it becomes quite evident that she still has quite the hold on his heart and Macon is determined to make Eliza his especially when it's clear she needs him not only for a baby but to keep her safe.

I voluntarily read and advance reader copy of this book.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great second chance love story about two young kids, Eliza and Macon. During high school they had one moment of taking a chance on their pleasure and she ends up pregnant and what occurs is just heartbreaking and how Macon was forced leave even without a goodbye. Several years later they see one another but can not connect properly due to an over controlling boyfriend - husband later. Lets say he is nothing but brutally mean and abusive. Once Eliza gets help from her one true friend she tries to put her life back together. As she does this Fate or Chance comes in the form of Macon and boy oh boy does he do everything he can to stay a part of her life. He takes control but allows her freedom. This is something she has a hard time coming to terms with. Eliza's one goal is worth fighting for and she does with everything she has and Macon is right there along with her. It was nice to see them reconnect even though they took different paths to get there. Macon treats her like gold and a rare gem and Eliza brings Macon into being a good man and to learn how to love. The ending is just beautifully done and one I'll remember for some time. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book

[Ida Guldberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book**
Meet Eliza and Macon. High School sweethearts, about 10 years ago one night changed everything for the two of them. Years later they meet again in college, but the timing just isn't right for them. Years later Eliza meets up with Danica, a mutual friend with Macon, she needs help. Danica decides to help her friends discreet.
Macon never got over his High School Darling, what better way than to step back in and sweep her off her feet? It's obvious he is still in love with Eliza, and so is she, but some life turning events prevents her from taking that step. Macon wants a second chance to make up for the pain he caused back in High School. It seems like Macon have never gotten over his love for Eliza.

One night on his boat, she tells him, she wants a baby, she just needs a sperm donor. Macon doesn't see himself as a dad, but is determined to make sure Eliza has everything she wants and needs.
In the story Macon and Eliza has previous history, that ended abruptly and in a tragedy that leaved them brokenhearted.

This story has many ups and downs. These two people learns about things in life with each other and by themselves, with some ups and downs.
The book will have you hooked from the beginning till the end.

Loved this book, haven't read many of Lexi Whitlow's books but must say she did a damn good job with this one!

[Zee Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!!

I have to admit I was iffy about this book and didn't think I would enjoy it but I was so wrong. I could not put this book down!!!!! The characters were great, the storyline was awesome it had just the right amount of romance with a little suspense. I was glad that Eliza was not a total weakling. Of course she was afraid of Alex and what he would and could do but you could tell she was taking her life back. Macon was the perfect amount of strong, take charge but not overbearing man. I love that he took charge without making Eliza feel smothered and dependant or making her feel like she wasn't in control. He loved her through everything even though he couldnt tell her at first. This book was the perfect length it has some background on them, the present and a little of the future. Most authors cut the book off at the couples getting pregnant, falling in love, or getting married but in this book we get to see what happens afterwards. I've already recommended this book to a few family members but I highly recommend it to everyone else. It is worth it. I'm grateful for kindle unlimited because I get to read books I would have passed over. This is a book I wouldn't mind buying and trust me you will not regret it.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm kind of speechless, this was so good. Macon and Eliza have a lot of history and even more baggage together, and apart. This book takes us through the unpacking of most of it. Eliza's escaping a traumatic mistake of a marriage and finally believes she's safe enough to try being a mother. Macon was her high school sweetheart, but he's maybe not her first choice as a father for her baby. At least not when she's thinking about it. But her heart remembers the sweet boy she loved all those years ago. Macon remembers Eliza as the one who got away when their mothers moved heaven and earth to keep them apart. His heart also remembers how much he used to love her way back then. And maybe still does now. Complicating matters are Eliza's medical conditions and an ex-husband who won't stay in her past. I adored these two together. They're strong enough to be vulnerable with one another and give each other a safe place to open up. The strong supporting cast of characters that surrounds them, sometimes steal the thunder from our leading couple. But that's okay, because they're all pretty fantastic themselves. The adorably sweet and precious ending nearly had me in tears.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those reads that will stick in my mind for a long time. At first I thought it would be the typical read...playboy billionaire meets up with the one that got away in H.S., they get together, she leaves, get together again, then leaves & then they finally get their HEA....so so so wrong.
Lexi Whitlow kept surprising me, when I thought it would go one way, it went the other & the other way was what I was hoping for to begin with. Yes Macon is a playboy billionaire & yes Eliza is the one that got away, they were each other's first love & first in many ways but that similarity is the only thing like so many other reads. Their story is emotional & I couldn't help tearing up at many parts but their bond & love keeps them together throughout the story. Facing an enemy, sticking together, not running away & being honest is what made this book & of course the steamy sexy scenes. Not only that but the ending and epilogue....I still have a tear strained face from it.
I was so impressed with the writing & story that even though I received an ARC I had to buy it. KUDOS KUDOS KUDOS to the author for this read & a huge thanks for making this story a true steamy romance & about a couple sticking together through it all no matter the obstacle.

[Julianne Macneil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as part of an arc program. I really enjoyed this second chance romance between Eliza and Macon. When they were in high school, Eliza got pregnant and their families forced them apart, then tragedy struck and the baby died during the pregnancy. Years later they reunited in college only to be kept apart by Eliza's jealous boyfriend who she later married. After escaping an extremely violent marriage, Eliza reunites with a college friend, Danica who is now an OB/GYN, Eliza wants to have a baby and when Danica tells Macon Eliza moved back to the area, he wants to get in touch so Danica passes on his number for Eliza to call. Macon wants to catch up with Eliza and when he learns she is in hiding from her ex and she wants a baby, he offers to protect her and father her child. Macon is a self made billionaire with the resources to help Eliza and maybe earn a second chance with her. I lived how Macon wanted to be with Eliza and protect her. He knows she is the one that got away and wants a second chance. Macon is so loving with Eliza and helps her realize she is so much more than what her ex led her to believe. The struggle to have a baby is a hard journey they go on and is filled with such heartbreak and joys. I loved this story and their chemistry. Excellent one.

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing and such a pleasure to read. Well written with wonderful characters and an engaging storyline. An emotional roller coaster that will have you alternating between tears and laughter. Young love that got interrupted by life, Eliza and Mason were so great. Mason is from the wrong side of the tracks and he is his family's only hope and his mother's future meal ticket. When Eliza's parents find out she is pregnant they take things into their own hands They forbid her to communicate with him and have him sent away to college. She loses the baby that he never knew about at twenty weeks.
They meet up some years later but both were with another date. She later marries and moves away only to be stuck in an abusive relationship. She finally comes home to get away from her abusive and stalking ex. That's when she reconnects with Mason. She tells him of her dream to have a baby and is looking for a sperm donor. He protects her from her ex and offers to be the father of her baby. No more as I don't want to be a spoiler. Let me just say this is a great book and you will love reading it. I received an advance copy and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Viper Spaulding · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful second-chance romance, full of heartwarming characters, lots of humor, emotionally cathartic moments, and a strong sense of family values. Macon and Eliza were forcibly separated as teens, and it takes ten years for them to get their second chance. In the meantime, Macon builds his financial empire while nursing an Eliza-shaped hole in his heart. Eliza is on the run from an abusive ex and trying to take advantage of the very slim chance she has left to have a child. She doesn't want to trust any man, not even Macon, nor does she feel she deserves a second chance with him. Macon is equally determined to not lose this second chance with Eliza.

The plot is layered and complex, with plenty of action, sweetly loving and fiery hot intimate scenes, and excellent secondary characters that really give the story a well-rounded feeling. The HEA not only wraps up all the main story's loose ends, it ties up all the assorted plot threads beautifully. Ms. Whitlow is a very talented author, and this book is even better than her last, which I couldn't praise enough. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

True love

Macon and Eliza have known each other since elementary school and were high school sweethearts. Just before graduation, Eliza became pregnant with Macon's baby, but both of their mums decided to keep them apart. Eliza loses the baby and Macon goes onto college. A year later, Macon goes to meet a new girl, Danica, at a frat party and sees Eliza at the same party, but she is with her new boyfriend, Alex. Macon tries to see Eliza, but gives up after unsuccessful attempts and moves on with his life. Nearly 10 years later, Macon's life is doing well in life. While in Charleston on business he meets his college friend, Danica, for dinner. She tells him that Eliza is divorced from Alex, and is in Charleston. Danica wants Macon and Eliza to be together. Eliza has finally escaped from Alex, and is hoping to start a new life for herself. She also hopes that she will be able to have a baby on her own. With a little encouragement from Danica, Macon makes Eliza an offer - he will help in her quest to have a baby. Will Eliza get her dream.? Both of them have baggage to overcome, but want to work on that together. A great read.

[Maria (Ri) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.0 out of 5 stars Macon had a heart of gold and seemed to have never gotten over his love for Eliza

This book was not your typical fast paced baby romance. It had depth to it and was actually thought out. Macon and Eliza had a previous history that had ended in tragedy. They spend years apart with each undergoing their own issues. For Eliza the issues were greater than most people have to endure. Macon had a heart of gold and seemed to have never gotten over his love for Eliza. There was good characterization between the main characters and the secondary ones like Danica. I really appreciated that this was a full length novel and not just a short novel followed by tons of bonus content. It gave me time to enjoy and savor the book in its entirety instead of worrying that it was going to try and crunch everything into just a few short chapters.

I received a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review from Hidden Gems. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic new release from Lexi Whitlow! When Macon and Eliza were just 18 their lives got very serious with an unplanned pregnancy, but neither family were happy about it and pulled the two apart. Then when the tragic happens both have drifted apart, even if that's the last thing they wanted. Now 10 years later, along with a whole lot of baggage on both their parts, they are given a second chance at what was true love. Eliza finds herself 10 years older, beaten down, a body betraying her and in desperate need of friends when she comes back into Macon's life. Macon has amassed a fortune and spends his time on his boat with women abound, until he finds out Eliza is back in town and fighting for her freedom from a psycho ex who wont give up. I loved Macon and Eliza! Macon soon finds out there is nothing he wont do for a second chance with Eliza and Eliza soon realizes all the lies her ex told her were just that and she is stronger than even she thinks she is. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.