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Off-Limits Romance
The Plan
You’ve heard this story before. Woman feels her biological clock ticking and gets someone to knock her up.
Not for love, for baby.
Crazy, right?
That’s what I thought.
Then I found out my fiancé had a vasectomy. The life I thought I had? Nope. Suddenly I’m 33, and I don’t even have a kissing buddy.
When my mom’s health takes a turn and I wind up back in my hometown of Fate, Alabama, I tell myself to leave things up to…well, you know.
Then I see Gabriel McKellan. He’s Fate’s most famous son, a bestselling author who is beautiful, complicated, and living just below me. In addition to his plus-sized brain, Gabe’s well-endowed in other ways, and great in bed to boot. I would know. He's my ex husband.
When I suggest The Plan, I don't imagine that he'll take the bait. It's been ten years, and we don't work. But Fate has other plans for both of us.
Not for love, for baby.
Crazy, right?
That’s what I thought.
Then I found out my fiancé had a vasectomy. The life I thought I had? Nope. Suddenly I’m 33, and I don’t even have a kissing buddy.
When my mom’s health takes a turn and I wind up back in my hometown of Fate, Alabama, I tell myself to leave things up to…well, you know.
Then I see Gabriel McKellan. He’s Fate’s most famous son, a bestselling author who is beautiful, complicated, and living just below me. In addition to his plus-sized brain, Gabe’s well-endowed in other ways, and great in bed to boot. I would know. He's my ex husband.
When I suggest The Plan, I don't imagine that he'll take the bait. It's been ten years, and we don't work. But Fate has other plans for both of us.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2017
943 people are currently reading
3504 people want to read
About the author
Ella James
75 books5,799 followersElla James is the USA Today + Amazon Top 10 bestselling author of more than twenty books. Ella lives in Colorado with her husband and three kids. When she's not writing, you can find her in the foothills.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 341 reviews
November 28, 2017
Marley moves back into her hometown in Alabama to be closer to her sick mom.
That last decade spent in Chicago didn't end up with what she wants most in life - a baby. First her fiancé told her he had a vasectomy, then the IVF worked, but she lost the baby. Now she wants to save up some more money to try again.
But once she arrives in her new place she finds another possibility. Her ex-husband Gabe.
He kinda hates her ... and himself too. They didn't work out back then because they were way too young and he already had problems with alcohol. And now he has problems with his stupid ex who won't let him see his daughter.
Two sad and broken people with lots of left-over feelings living in a house together... time to make a baby. ☺
I really loved this book. First you think. Hm. Sexy cover. Adorable blurb. This will be a quick, fluffy, adorable & sexy second-chance romance. And it is. But the blurb is totally misleading! (that's the main reason why I didn't give a 5-star rating!) This story is so much more. It's so much more heartbreaking and sad and lovely and hopeless, but also full of hope and dreams and ugh. I just adored those two!
Gabe and Marley have been through so much in their lives and now there might be a little bit hope on the horizon - they just have to work through all their stuff before we can ride off into our happily ever after sunset ...
Amazing Second-Chance-Romance! With lots of funny and adorable and verrrry sexy moments! But also lots of very serious and sad and heartbreaking moments. READ IT!!!
I just expected something completely different, and what I got was really amazing, but I was still a bit sad about not getting this fluffy piece of sexy-baby-daddy romance I was hoping for. I think the book needs a new blurb asap and maybe even a new cover! It's mega sexy, and Gabe is running around all sexy all the time, but it doesn't fit the story at all.
The other part I didn't like... We don't have any real depth into their professional lives. We don't see Marley as a doc at all. And Gabe's writing is only mentioned a few times. I wanted so much more about both of them. The story felt a bit rushed. I wanted more details and more reasons to fall in love with both of them.
And another tiny little thing. Was it just me, or were there a few lines in this book that were not understandable? I just didn't understand what they were talking about in some moments. Very weird. BUT, I still really enjoyed reading it!!!!
♡
♡
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November 28, 2017
The Plan by Ella James is the fourth book in the Off-Limits Series. Every book in the series is about another couple and a totally standalone.
The other books in the series are Crown Jewels, The Boy Next Door and Fractured Love. I read all books in the series and loved every single one. And The Plan is no exception.
Meet Gabriel McKellan and Marley Roberts.
Gabe is a famous author who hides in bumfugde. Marley moved back into her small hometown. She suffered great loss and has to take care for her mother.
Both hate each other with passion. And the reason is... sorry, not sorry, no spoilers here. Only so much. The Plan is raw and gritty. The characters both have issues and baggage, they´re broken. Together they make a plan. This book contains scorching hot sex scenes, a strong heroine and a broken hero who gives what he can.
I started reading and was hooked. I was sucked into the story. I love the writing, the words and the characters. I give 4,5 stars. Thank you, Ella James !
The other books in the series are Crown Jewels, The Boy Next Door and Fractured Love. I read all books in the series and loved every single one. And The Plan is no exception.
Meet Gabriel McKellan and Marley Roberts.
Gabe is a famous author who hides in bumfugde. Marley moved back into her small hometown. She suffered great loss and has to take care for her mother.
Both hate each other with passion. And the reason is... sorry, not sorry, no spoilers here. Only so much. The Plan is raw and gritty. The characters both have issues and baggage, they´re broken. Together they make a plan. This book contains scorching hot sex scenes, a strong heroine and a broken hero who gives what he can.
I started reading and was hooked. I was sucked into the story. I love the writing, the words and the characters. I give 4,5 stars. Thank you, Ella James !
November 28, 2017
I read this book in one sitting...I could not get enough of Gabe and Marley's love hate relationship!
They were hot and cold and hot and cold...till they were just HOT!!!! Gawd the things that Gabe did to Marley had me blushing.
I love a second chance at romance story and this did not disappoint. There was lots of drama for your mama...there was lots of sex, dirty, hot unadulterated sex.
The moral of this review is for y'all to grab this book up right now!
#LakeFate #Pies
They were hot and cold and hot and cold...till they were just HOT!!!! Gawd the things that Gabe did to Marley had me blushing.
I love a second chance at romance story and this did not disappoint. There was lots of drama for your mama...there was lots of sex, dirty, hot unadulterated sex.
The moral of this review is for y'all to grab this book up right now!
#LakeFate #Pies
November 29, 2017
A few weeks ago I read the blurb for The Plan and was immediately drawn to it. This story checked a few boxes on my “What I Love in a Romance” list and I was really excited to start reading it.
A Second Chance, especially with an ex-spouse? Check. A baby or the possibility of a baby? Check. Older, more mature, characters. Check. And something that I wasn’t expecting, but is Manna from Heaven to me, a little angst! A HUGE “Praise the Lawd!” check!!!
What I thought was going to be a light hearted Rom-Com threw me for a loop. I went through a full range of emotions in a few hours; once I started reading it was hard to take a break for something as mundane as sleeping or eating. I cried and laughed, sometimes simultaneously, did a lot of flapping-my-hands around my face, to ward off more tears, and finally huge, happy sighs at the end! This book made me so happy; I “might” have kissed my Kindle at the end. Yeah okay, I confess, I did!
Dr. Marley Daniels, a pediatrician, moves back to Fate, Alabama when she finds out her mom is terminally ill. She moved away almost thirteen years ago and had been living in Chicago. This move might be just what she needed. She wasn’t getting any younger; her thirty-third birthday was just around the corner. After breaking up with her older fiancé a year ago, and deciding to be a single mother, she had undergone IVF and lost her baby five months ago. Another plus Fate had in its favor was she could live cheaply in a small town and save up for another round in a year or so. For now she’d be living on the second floor of a beautiful mansion her grandmother’s friend, Miss Shorter, had recently decided to rent for added income. What Miss Shorter neglected to tell her was that her grandson would be living on the first floor. He also happened to be Marley’s ex-husband, the man she left twelve years ago.
Gabe McKellan had been living in NYC and was back in Fate. The famous author had snuck into town, a few months ago, after an incident he hoped no one would find out about. He has a lot of things he keeps to himself, secrets he doesn’t trust a lot of people with, and that was also the problem between Marley and him in the short time they were married. Ironically, the bestselling author, a man with lots of stories to his credit, was also man of few words in real life. When he finds out Marley rented the floor above him, he wants her to leave, and he’s quite vocal about it. And Marley’s tempted to, but thinks maybe he should be the one to leave, this time. She doesn’t want to be the one that leaves, again. When she has a few too many drinks on her birthday, and he has to help her up to her floor, she comes clean about a few things. Confession can be good for the soul. And a long time ago they were really good together, too. And they both remember how good it can still be.
“I left because I was just…young and scared. Maybe the age part doesn’t matter. I was scared, though. And stupid, at the time. All the time after that, I really regretted it and wished I could go back. Give it another go. I know it doesn’t matter now. I’m rambling—because I’m nervous. Because of what happened.”
“What happened?”
“You know.”
“You—you know. Pleasured me, I guess.”
“Were you? Were you pleasured?”
“Yes. I was.”
“Good.”
“I watch as he moves down the stairs, feeling like a beggar in the presence of a king.”
Marley wants Gabe. Well, she wants him to father her child and comes up with The Plan, written out, so they have everything spelled out. When he agrees to help her out, things don’t go quite according to what she imagined.
This story, it has all the feels! I wish I could be sitting with each and every one of y'all when you get to the really good part (there are several, but one specifically) just to see y’alls reaction! I squealed with joy, you know, that really high-pitched noise you unintentionally make when really excited? Yep, that’s the one! Hours later, I'm still happy with this beautiful gem!
A Second Chance, especially with an ex-spouse? Check. A baby or the possibility of a baby? Check. Older, more mature, characters. Check. And something that I wasn’t expecting, but is Manna from Heaven to me, a little angst! A HUGE “Praise the Lawd!” check!!!
What I thought was going to be a light hearted Rom-Com threw me for a loop. I went through a full range of emotions in a few hours; once I started reading it was hard to take a break for something as mundane as sleeping or eating. I cried and laughed, sometimes simultaneously, did a lot of flapping-my-hands around my face, to ward off more tears, and finally huge, happy sighs at the end! This book made me so happy; I “might” have kissed my Kindle at the end. Yeah okay, I confess, I did!
Dr. Marley Daniels, a pediatrician, moves back to Fate, Alabama when she finds out her mom is terminally ill. She moved away almost thirteen years ago and had been living in Chicago. This move might be just what she needed. She wasn’t getting any younger; her thirty-third birthday was just around the corner. After breaking up with her older fiancé a year ago, and deciding to be a single mother, she had undergone IVF and lost her baby five months ago. Another plus Fate had in its favor was she could live cheaply in a small town and save up for another round in a year or so. For now she’d be living on the second floor of a beautiful mansion her grandmother’s friend, Miss Shorter, had recently decided to rent for added income. What Miss Shorter neglected to tell her was that her grandson would be living on the first floor. He also happened to be Marley’s ex-husband, the man she left twelve years ago.
Gabe McKellan had been living in NYC and was back in Fate. The famous author had snuck into town, a few months ago, after an incident he hoped no one would find out about. He has a lot of things he keeps to himself, secrets he doesn’t trust a lot of people with, and that was also the problem between Marley and him in the short time they were married. Ironically, the bestselling author, a man with lots of stories to his credit, was also man of few words in real life. When he finds out Marley rented the floor above him, he wants her to leave, and he’s quite vocal about it. And Marley’s tempted to, but thinks maybe he should be the one to leave, this time. She doesn’t want to be the one that leaves, again. When she has a few too many drinks on her birthday, and he has to help her up to her floor, she comes clean about a few things. Confession can be good for the soul. And a long time ago they were really good together, too. And they both remember how good it can still be.
“I left because I was just…young and scared. Maybe the age part doesn’t matter. I was scared, though. And stupid, at the time. All the time after that, I really regretted it and wished I could go back. Give it another go. I know it doesn’t matter now. I’m rambling—because I’m nervous. Because of what happened.”
“What happened?”
“You know.”
“You—you know. Pleasured me, I guess.”
“Were you? Were you pleasured?”
“Yes. I was.”
“Good.”
“I watch as he moves down the stairs, feeling like a beggar in the presence of a king.”
Marley wants Gabe. Well, she wants him to father her child and comes up with The Plan, written out, so they have everything spelled out. When he agrees to help her out, things don’t go quite according to what she imagined.
This story, it has all the feels! I wish I could be sitting with each and every one of y'all when you get to the really good part (there are several, but one specifically) just to see y’alls reaction! I squealed with joy, you know, that really high-pitched noise you unintentionally make when really excited? Yep, that’s the one! Hours later, I'm still happy with this beautiful gem!
Read
November 28, 2017DNF
I’m not sure the blurb accurately captures the tone and premise of this tale. It’s really more drama than romance. It has angsty themes/serious issues—alcoholism, infant loss, infertility, infidelity. Those are definitely things that readers should be aware of going into a story.
It’s definitively not light-hearted nor is it romantic. I didn’t exactly feel the chemistry between Marley and Gabe. While they might have captured the “I’m annoyed with my ex” vibe, they didn’t scream two people who should be reunited so the second chances angle didn’t work here.
They seemed like two people making another bad mistake. A lot of the story deals with their personal issues. I untimely decided to bail on this one when I just couldn’t get behind their reasons for having a child together. To be clear on the real premise of the tale, Marley and Gabe wind up neighbors in the same town many years after their divorce. In the years since, Marley’s former fiancé had a vasectomy so she tried IVF, conceived, and had a second trimester miscarriage. Gabe thought he had a child with his girlfriend, raised the little girl till she was three, and then found out she wasn’t his. Both of these two individual are hurting, but in no way did their shared losses make me feel that having a child together was the answer. When I got to the following conversation, I was sure these two were not in a place to be parents!
“Marley... I’m an alcoholic.” -Gabe on why they shouldn't have a child together
“So what? Everyone has something.” -Maryley's response to that
Everyone has something!!!
Alcoholism isn’t a minor character flaw like procrastinating balancing your checkbook or being absent minded about watering your plants. It’s a serious illness that requires professional treatment and therapy. As a medical doctor, Marley should know that! You don��t willingly bring a child into that kind of environment. And you don’t have children to service your needs. As a mother of two, I was appalled at these grown adults, one of which a doctor, even considering using each other for such a purpose.
Did I mention they hatch out this plan (a serious life altering decision) while she’s giving him a blowjob?
Because being compatible in bed is high on their compatible parenting list it seems. I felt bad for the kid and it wasn’t even conceived yet. Forget the college fund; their offspring would need a counseling fund.
*I volunteered to review this ARC. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
I’m not sure the blurb accurately captures the tone and premise of this tale. It’s really more drama than romance. It has angsty themes/serious issues—alcoholism, infant loss, infertility, infidelity. Those are definitely things that readers should be aware of going into a story.
It’s definitively not light-hearted nor is it romantic. I didn’t exactly feel the chemistry between Marley and Gabe. While they might have captured the “I’m annoyed with my ex” vibe, they didn’t scream two people who should be reunited so the second chances angle didn’t work here.
They seemed like two people making another bad mistake. A lot of the story deals with their personal issues. I untimely decided to bail on this one when I just couldn’t get behind their reasons for having a child together. To be clear on the real premise of the tale, Marley and Gabe wind up neighbors in the same town many years after their divorce. In the years since, Marley’s former fiancé had a vasectomy so she tried IVF, conceived, and had a second trimester miscarriage. Gabe thought he had a child with his girlfriend, raised the little girl till she was three, and then found out she wasn’t his. Both of these two individual are hurting, but in no way did their shared losses make me feel that having a child together was the answer. When I got to the following conversation, I was sure these two were not in a place to be parents!
“Marley... I’m an alcoholic.” -Gabe on why they shouldn't have a child together
“So what? Everyone has something.” -Maryley's response to that
Everyone has something!!!
Alcoholism isn’t a minor character flaw like procrastinating balancing your checkbook or being absent minded about watering your plants. It’s a serious illness that requires professional treatment and therapy. As a medical doctor, Marley should know that! You don��t willingly bring a child into that kind of environment. And you don’t have children to service your needs. As a mother of two, I was appalled at these grown adults, one of which a doctor, even considering using each other for such a purpose.
Did I mention they hatch out this plan (a serious life altering decision) while she’s giving him a blowjob?
Because being compatible in bed is high on their compatible parenting list it seems. I felt bad for the kid and it wasn’t even conceived yet. Forget the college fund; their offspring would need a counseling fund.
*I volunteered to review this ARC. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
March 16, 2018
I received a copy of this book to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
We have all heard the story before. Woman feels her biological clock ticking and gets someone to knock her up. Not for love, but for the baby. Crazy right? That is what Marley thought and then she found out her fiance had a vasectomy. The life she thought she had was suddenly gone and she finds herself thirty three and without even a kissing buddy. When her mom's health takes a turn and she winds up back in her hometown of Fate, Alabama, she tells herself to leave things up to ...well you know. The she sees Gabriel McKellan. He is Fate's most famous son, a bestselling author who is beautiful, complicated, and living just below her. In addition to his plus-sized brain, Gabe is well endowed in other ways and great in bed. She would know. He is her ex husband. When she suggest The Plan, she doesn't imagine that he will take the bait. It has been ten years, and we don't work. But Fate has other plans for them both.
I loved this book and actually devoured it. I love second chance romances and I loved that these two wound up in each other's lives again. Their big do over if you will. Gabe and Tiffany were married when they were you on a whim in Las Vegas. They didn't work and Gabe was hiding things from Tiffany. Tiffany just wanted to be a good wife and Gabe had a way of not letting that happen so they ended up divorced. Fast forward ten years and they are both back in their hometown of Fate, Alabama and find themselves living in the same house but in different sections. Gabe is there to hide from his past and Tiffany has taken a job as a Dr at the pediatric practice in town and to be closer to her mom. However the sparks between these two do not just start flying as Gabe is a total butt to her in the beginning. However they have a undeniable attraction and while Gabe has lost a child and Tiffany wants one she devises The Plan and the sparks start flying. These two just seem to compliment each other or they both need each other to bring things out in them they are looking for at the time. This is a fun love story to read with drama and angst. I loved every single second of it and highly recommend it.
Ella James always writes books that I end up devouring. It has been a while too since I have read one of her books and I am no remembering why I tend not to miss any of them when I am able to get them and read the. Bravo Ella James. You have done it again and I can't wait to see what you come up with next for your readers.
We have all heard the story before. Woman feels her biological clock ticking and gets someone to knock her up. Not for love, but for the baby. Crazy right? That is what Marley thought and then she found out her fiance had a vasectomy. The life she thought she had was suddenly gone and she finds herself thirty three and without even a kissing buddy. When her mom's health takes a turn and she winds up back in her hometown of Fate, Alabama, she tells herself to leave things up to ...well you know. The she sees Gabriel McKellan. He is Fate's most famous son, a bestselling author who is beautiful, complicated, and living just below her. In addition to his plus-sized brain, Gabe is well endowed in other ways and great in bed. She would know. He is her ex husband. When she suggest The Plan, she doesn't imagine that he will take the bait. It has been ten years, and we don't work. But Fate has other plans for them both.
I loved this book and actually devoured it. I love second chance romances and I loved that these two wound up in each other's lives again. Their big do over if you will. Gabe and Tiffany were married when they were you on a whim in Las Vegas. They didn't work and Gabe was hiding things from Tiffany. Tiffany just wanted to be a good wife and Gabe had a way of not letting that happen so they ended up divorced. Fast forward ten years and they are both back in their hometown of Fate, Alabama and find themselves living in the same house but in different sections. Gabe is there to hide from his past and Tiffany has taken a job as a Dr at the pediatric practice in town and to be closer to her mom. However the sparks between these two do not just start flying as Gabe is a total butt to her in the beginning. However they have a undeniable attraction and while Gabe has lost a child and Tiffany wants one she devises The Plan and the sparks start flying. These two just seem to compliment each other or they both need each other to bring things out in them they are looking for at the time. This is a fun love story to read with drama and angst. I loved every single second of it and highly recommend it.
Ella James always writes books that I end up devouring. It has been a while too since I have read one of her books and I am no remembering why I tend not to miss any of them when I am able to get them and read the. Bravo Ella James. You have done it again and I can't wait to see what you come up with next for your readers.
November 28, 2017
The Plan is so much more than the blurb would suggest. It is a gorgeous story of love and forgiveness, hope and second chances. Fate truly plays a part in Gabe and Marley's lives when they each find themselves back in their hometown, twelve years after they last saw each other. Emotionally bruised and battered by what life has thrown at them, can they overcome their obstacles and finally be what the other needs to heal and move on.
Beautifully described, the town of Fate with its tree lined streets and friendly atmosphere, came alive across the pages of this book. I don't know if it was based on a real town, but it is definitely somewhere I'd like to visit. I wasn't expecting all the feels from this story but Ms James certainly delivered them. I loved the fact that these characters were so relatable, so real. Yes, Gabe was rich and successful, brooding and solitary at times, but he was vulnerable too. He had overcome so much but certain demons still haunted him. Marley is strong and determined, a little quirky, I love her independence. Although frustrating at times, their relationship was a joy to read. They laughed, they cried, they bickered and, oh boy, was their sexual chemistry hot!
A wonderful balance of humour and conflict, affection and tenderness, not to mention a big old dose of sexiness! I laughed out loud, I swooned and I shed a tear or two. Just lovely!
Beautifully described, the town of Fate with its tree lined streets and friendly atmosphere, came alive across the pages of this book. I don't know if it was based on a real town, but it is definitely somewhere I'd like to visit. I wasn't expecting all the feels from this story but Ms James certainly delivered them. I loved the fact that these characters were so relatable, so real. Yes, Gabe was rich and successful, brooding and solitary at times, but he was vulnerable too. He had overcome so much but certain demons still haunted him. Marley is strong and determined, a little quirky, I love her independence. Although frustrating at times, their relationship was a joy to read. They laughed, they cried, they bickered and, oh boy, was their sexual chemistry hot!
A wonderful balance of humour and conflict, affection and tenderness, not to mention a big old dose of sexiness! I laughed out loud, I swooned and I shed a tear or two. Just lovely!
November 29, 2017
Ella James does it again!
I told my husband I should have waited until the weekend to start this book because I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down. I am now writing a review at 2 am.
I loved Gabe and Marley's story. Ella James has a knack for writing characters that draw you in. I felt Gabe and Marley's angst on every page. She draws you in with a bit of mystery and I find myself anxiously reading until it is cleared up. I can't wait for the next great read.
I told my husband I should have waited until the weekend to start this book because I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down. I am now writing a review at 2 am.
I loved Gabe and Marley's story. Ella James has a knack for writing characters that draw you in. I felt Gabe and Marley's angst on every page. She draws you in with a bit of mystery and I find myself anxiously reading until it is cleared up. I can't wait for the next great read.
November 27, 2017
This is a book that has everything; chemistry, romance, comedy, and chance. I love the interaction that was written in this book between Marley and Gabriel. That had tried to be together before but things just did not work out. Now fate has thrown them together again, will second chances help them discover love again. This book had me going through so many different emotions, and that made the book an amazing read. Thank you for allowing me to read this and write about it honestly.
November 29, 2017
I am going to write this review based
strictly on the emotions I felt while I
was reading. I could not put this book
down, and when I had to I was anxiously
wanting to get back to reading it.
I loved the premise, ex spouses-
fighting their attraction, and reconnecting.
That in itself is something I love, but this
book was so much more. I just absolutely
loved Gabe and all of his baggage. He
was so real, and had such a tough exterior,
but when you really get to know him
you realize he is so much more. Marley
was perfect for him. She had divorced
him years ago, when she was still very
young, because of his addiction. She
reconnects with him when she moves
back home to be with her mother. Sparks
just don't fly, they leap and twirl off
the page. This book was one of the
hottest books I have read in a long time.
Now, I'm not saying that this book didn't
have a few eye-roll moments for me. It
did. I can't rate a book that had me
feel so much anything lower than
a 5. I loved the ending, even though I
think it was a bit rushed. I would
have loved an epilogue that goes a
few years into the future, just so
I could revisit this couple.
strictly on the emotions I felt while I
was reading. I could not put this book
down, and when I had to I was anxiously
wanting to get back to reading it.
I loved the premise, ex spouses-
fighting their attraction, and reconnecting.
That in itself is something I love, but this
book was so much more. I just absolutely
loved Gabe and all of his baggage. He
was so real, and had such a tough exterior,
but when you really get to know him
you realize he is so much more. Marley
was perfect for him. She had divorced
him years ago, when she was still very
young, because of his addiction. She
reconnects with him when she moves
back home to be with her mother. Sparks
just don't fly, they leap and twirl off
the page. This book was one of the
hottest books I have read in a long time.
Now, I'm not saying that this book didn't
have a few eye-roll moments for me. It
did. I can't rate a book that had me
feel so much anything lower than
a 5. I loved the ending, even though I
think it was a bit rushed. I would
have loved an epilogue that goes a
few years into the future, just so
I could revisit this couple.
November 27, 2017
Heart stopping tension!!! The Plan by Ella James was full of everything I love in a romance; sexy, dominant, and troubled male with a strong, independent, and a little goofy female. I absolutely loved this story.
Gabe was so freaking sexy. When that man growls, I want to grovel. Marley’s impulsive but absolutely perfect decisions made me smile the entire book through. And the sex – phew! – the sex was so hot; it truly sizzled my kindle.
I woke up at 2am this morning and realized it was release day – I looked on my kindle and The Plan was there! Not being able to get back to sleep, I opened it up and began to read. I. COULD. NOT. PUT. IT. DOWN. I really couldn’t. I tried. I though ‘oh, you need rest before you go to work!’ but I picked my kindle back up and was sucked back into the lives of Marley and Gabe. I’m honestly reeling from this book.
The setting, a little Southern town named Fate, was the perfect backdrop for this second chance romance to rock your world. The tree lined streets, the lake town atmosphere, and how with a population of 25k, everyone knows your business; the fictional town of Fate made me yearn for small town life.
As always, Ella James led me on a journey of ups and down, giggles and gasps, bringing me through an incredible romance. Gabe and Marley are a couple I truly hope show up in a future story. Be still my heart - their relationship is amazingly electric!
Bravo, Ella! I absolutely loved this story :)
Gabe was so freaking sexy. When that man growls, I want to grovel. Marley’s impulsive but absolutely perfect decisions made me smile the entire book through. And the sex – phew! – the sex was so hot; it truly sizzled my kindle.
I woke up at 2am this morning and realized it was release day – I looked on my kindle and The Plan was there! Not being able to get back to sleep, I opened it up and began to read. I. COULD. NOT. PUT. IT. DOWN. I really couldn’t. I tried. I though ‘oh, you need rest before you go to work!’ but I picked my kindle back up and was sucked back into the lives of Marley and Gabe. I’m honestly reeling from this book.
The setting, a little Southern town named Fate, was the perfect backdrop for this second chance romance to rock your world. The tree lined streets, the lake town atmosphere, and how with a population of 25k, everyone knows your business; the fictional town of Fate made me yearn for small town life.
As always, Ella James led me on a journey of ups and down, giggles and gasps, bringing me through an incredible romance. Gabe and Marley are a couple I truly hope show up in a future story. Be still my heart - their relationship is amazingly electric!
Bravo, Ella! I absolutely loved this story :)
November 28, 2017
4.5stars...second chance at HEA...two people who have emotional situations going on currently in their lives, get a second chance...my third read from EJ this year, and as usual I loved the writing/storyline, the characters:-) its steamy/sexy, but also very sweet...looking forward to her next read!
November 30, 2017
5 UNIQUE stars! This is a Second Chance Romance with a subtle touch of Comedy. Gabriel McKellan is waiting for you!
Holy moly! Ella James has done it again. She NEVER disappoints her readers. This time she delivers a sinful and funny book. I had a splendid time reading The Plan. It was a pleasant reading. I literally devoured it. Gabriel McKellan has ruined me for every other book boyfriend. It was really HARD not to fall for a guy like him. His imposing presence and his boy-next-door look made it so difficult. I wonder if Ella James enjoyed writing this book as much as I loved reading it.
This masterpiece is a mind-blowing threat for book addicts (myself included). It was a steamy journey that I want to repeat. There are not enough positive adjectives to describe how much I love this book, let's start with perfect.
The plot was hilarious and refreshing. There is not greater bookish pleasure than reading this book.
The characters are complex and their story is pretty complicated. They had a past, they were married but things didn't work the way they wanted. They took different paths in life. Marley carried on with her profession and Gabriel became a great author. But destiny played with them. The push and pull game is something I loved. And they played it so well.
Women’s biological clock is a bitch. If you have a maternal side, you will marry a good male specimen and you will have his babies. But what happens when you have not time left. Maternity is a huge deal. Having a baby is the maximum expression of love and life.
Marley is one of those women ready to have a baby in her early thirties. Her clock is ticking fast but she wants a baby. She never thought that coming back home will mean to her that she can have what she desires the most. Seeing her ex-husband again will cause that furious butterflies return to her tummy. The attraction is still there lingering between them.
Who can forget the one you once loved? The one who still have a place in your heart. Gabriel is the kind of guy you don't forget just because things broke up. He is like an addiction. You can't get over it because is eating you from inside. It's a constant craving. He has that look that make you think he won't hurt a fly nevertheless he can be a bullheaded . Marley is his kryptonite.
Living in the same place will be their heaven in hell. The baby-making plan is a cute addition to this story. The baby will be their redemption. And making the baby will be a lot of fun. Sex is gonna be their way to communicate their hidden feelings. Marley’s insecurities and Gabriel’s fears will add drama to their story. They will have to work through their issues if they want a life together.
Do not waste any time and grab this book. You won't be disappointed. This is one of the greatest exponents of the second chance romances. It is a light reading that will leave you wanting more. Ella James’s men are unforgettable. If you search the definition of baby daddy, you will find Gabe picture. His paternal side is deliciously sexy. I wonder where could I find my Gabriel…
Beautiful written, brilliantly addictive, sinfully hot, just another perfect read courtesy of Ella James.
Holy moly! Ella James has done it again. She NEVER disappoints her readers. This time she delivers a sinful and funny book. I had a splendid time reading The Plan. It was a pleasant reading. I literally devoured it. Gabriel McKellan has ruined me for every other book boyfriend. It was really HARD not to fall for a guy like him. His imposing presence and his boy-next-door look made it so difficult. I wonder if Ella James enjoyed writing this book as much as I loved reading it.
This masterpiece is a mind-blowing threat for book addicts (myself included). It was a steamy journey that I want to repeat. There are not enough positive adjectives to describe how much I love this book, let's start with perfect.
The plot was hilarious and refreshing. There is not greater bookish pleasure than reading this book.
The characters are complex and their story is pretty complicated. They had a past, they were married but things didn't work the way they wanted. They took different paths in life. Marley carried on with her profession and Gabriel became a great author. But destiny played with them. The push and pull game is something I loved. And they played it so well.
Women’s biological clock is a bitch. If you have a maternal side, you will marry a good male specimen and you will have his babies. But what happens when you have not time left. Maternity is a huge deal. Having a baby is the maximum expression of love and life.
Marley is one of those women ready to have a baby in her early thirties. Her clock is ticking fast but she wants a baby. She never thought that coming back home will mean to her that she can have what she desires the most. Seeing her ex-husband again will cause that furious butterflies return to her tummy. The attraction is still there lingering between them.
Who can forget the one you once loved? The one who still have a place in your heart. Gabriel is the kind of guy you don't forget just because things broke up. He is like an addiction. You can't get over it because is eating you from inside. It's a constant craving. He has that look that make you think he won't hurt a fly nevertheless he can be a bullheaded . Marley is his kryptonite.
Living in the same place will be their heaven in hell. The baby-making plan is a cute addition to this story. The baby will be their redemption. And making the baby will be a lot of fun. Sex is gonna be their way to communicate their hidden feelings. Marley’s insecurities and Gabriel’s fears will add drama to their story. They will have to work through their issues if they want a life together.
Do not waste any time and grab this book. You won't be disappointed. This is one of the greatest exponents of the second chance romances. It is a light reading that will leave you wanting more. Ella James’s men are unforgettable. If you search the definition of baby daddy, you will find Gabe picture. His paternal side is deliciously sexy. I wonder where could I find my Gabriel…
Beautiful written, brilliantly addictive, sinfully hot, just another perfect read courtesy of Ella James.
November 28, 2017
I wanted to love this book because I love witty banter and girls who give shit back no matter how ridiculous her circumstances. It had all the elements but seemed a little disjointed. Gabe wasn't book boyfriend material and his drinking was or wasn't alcoholism?? I worry about that.
Not supposed to be a bad review...I did give it a 4....so it's just my mood.
Not supposed to be a bad review...I did give it a 4....so it's just my mood.
no-way-jose
November 28, 2017Today is definitely the day for stupid female mcs. What a stupid, stupid woman. And she’s a doctor. Thanks to this reviewer I will never read this.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 3, 2017
Review later
November 27, 2017
When I first read the description of this book, I thought it was going to be a low drama Romcom type story. I got a lot more then I expected. It was a beautiful story with a second chance feel, but also had real life issues thrown in. I laughed at times, my jaw dropped at other times, and I shed a few tears along the way.
Gabe was amazing. He was a jerk at times, but deep down he really was an amazing guy. He was dedicated to those he loved even when dealing with his issues. Marley was fierce. She was hardheaded and I loved that she didn’t back down when things got tough. She held her head high and dealt with it.
The overall story was great. The plan for a baby was only a small part of the whole plot and didn’t come into play until about half way through the book. Even with that fact, I thought the author did an amazing job with the story as a whole. 4 Stars #2OCCJD
Gabe was amazing. He was a jerk at times, but deep down he really was an amazing guy. He was dedicated to those he loved even when dealing with his issues. Marley was fierce. She was hardheaded and I loved that she didn’t back down when things got tough. She held her head high and dealt with it.
The overall story was great. The plan for a baby was only a small part of the whole plot and didn’t come into play until about half way through the book. Even with that fact, I thought the author did an amazing job with the story as a whole. 4 Stars #2OCCJD
November 29, 2017
“Don’t be stupid. I would use you so hard, you would ache for days. I’ve never hurt like this before, Marley. I’ll hurt you too.”
His eyes on mine are hypnotic.
His finger on my clit is heavy.
My voice quivers as I say, “I want you to.”
I wanted to love this book because... well... I loved Ella's previous stories. It sounded good from the blurb, but it didn't work for me that much. The hero was a little bit moody, almost depressive.
His eyes on mine are hypnotic.
His finger on my clit is heavy.
My voice quivers as I say, “I want you to.”
I wanted to love this book because... well... I loved Ella's previous stories. It sounded good from the blurb, but it didn't work for me that much. The hero was a little bit moody, almost depressive.
November 30, 2017
➳ Rate: 4,6 / 5 stars
Can I just say first of all, that this series has been seriously so damn amazing!! I'm loving it so hard! And this book sure was worth the wait!!
It's a book which you can easily read in one sitting, these characters will pull you in and not want to let you go. I devoured this in practically one day, it just wasn't in one sitting because you know.. I have obligations (aka go to uni).
‘Some kind of magic in those ordinary-looking khakis…’
‘Turn that cunt from muggle into wizard’
This book was fun, super entertaining, sweet and it had quite the angst, even though I'd say it was nothing compared to book 2 and 3. Those two books oh man, I won't even get into it. But if you haven't read them, you really really should because they were amazing, like truly amazing.
Okay okay let's get back to The Plan, I really really enjoyed it. It had everything I love in a book, romance, angst, heat, and I mean lots of baby making, all them good things basically.
“My woman’s looking good,” he says. I ruffle his hair.
“Sexist pig. I’m not your trophy.”
“Okay…” He grins. “I’ll be yours.”
I definitely recommend this series! You can start with each ever book you want, they're all standalones. The first two books have characters in common though.
Also if you start with Crown Jewels and you don't like it that much, please don't give up on the series because I swear to you that all the other 3 books are not only better but seriously super good!
➳ARC kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
Can I just say first of all, that this series has been seriously so damn amazing!! I'm loving it so hard! And this book sure was worth the wait!!
It's a book which you can easily read in one sitting, these characters will pull you in and not want to let you go. I devoured this in practically one day, it just wasn't in one sitting because you know.. I have obligations (aka go to uni).
‘Some kind of magic in those ordinary-looking khakis…’
‘Turn that cunt from muggle into wizard’
This book was fun, super entertaining, sweet and it had quite the angst, even though I'd say it was nothing compared to book 2 and 3. Those two books oh man, I won't even get into it. But if you haven't read them, you really really should because they were amazing, like truly amazing.
Okay okay let's get back to The Plan, I really really enjoyed it. It had everything I love in a book, romance, angst, heat, and I mean lots of baby making, all them good things basically.
“My woman’s looking good,” he says. I ruffle his hair.
“Sexist pig. I’m not your trophy.”
“Okay…” He grins. “I’ll be yours.”
I definitely recommend this series! You can start with each ever book you want, they're all standalones. The first two books have characters in common though.
Also if you start with Crown Jewels and you don't like it that much, please don't give up on the series because I swear to you that all the other 3 books are not only better but seriously super good!
➳ARC kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
November 29, 2017
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
The Plan by Ella James is the fourth book in her Off-Limits Romance series, and can be read as a standalone. This enticing, high angst second chance romance will have you going from hot to cold back to steaming hot with a flip of the page.
Ella has delivered two opposite characters to us that provide such a raw sensory overload. Tackling specific issues of everyday life and coming together to deal with struggles. Gabe, a successful author holds up alone, suffering with a bottle from his tribulations. Marley has returned home to her small town and now is face to face with her ex from 10 years past. Her heart is broken, her spirits are down but when she locks eyes with the one person she thought she wouldn’t see… she forms a plan. Question is, will Gabe go along with it?
“Gabe was a mistake. My first one, and my worst.”
Tensions run high with Gabe and Marley throughout the story. Both characters are stubborn and hardheaded, but for Gabe, even through his struggles he’s overall a good natured, loveable man. Marley is one fierce, tenacious woman. She is determined with her plan, but what about her heart for her ex? Her struggles? Can she overcome them? Will The Plan workout in her favor?
The synopsis of this book totally drew me in. I am a fierce lover of all genres second chance romance and this had all the angsty, high tension, drama overload that I needed for me to be hooked. Yes, there were some subtle issues that could have made this story even better, flowed better, shined brighter (Gabe’s alcohol issues), but overall, Ella James won me over and that’s all that mattered.
4 Stars
The Plan by Ella James is the fourth book in her Off-Limits Romance series, and can be read as a standalone. This enticing, high angst second chance romance will have you going from hot to cold back to steaming hot with a flip of the page.
Ella has delivered two opposite characters to us that provide such a raw sensory overload. Tackling specific issues of everyday life and coming together to deal with struggles. Gabe, a successful author holds up alone, suffering with a bottle from his tribulations. Marley has returned home to her small town and now is face to face with her ex from 10 years past. Her heart is broken, her spirits are down but when she locks eyes with the one person she thought she wouldn’t see… she forms a plan. Question is, will Gabe go along with it?
“Gabe was a mistake. My first one, and my worst.”
Tensions run high with Gabe and Marley throughout the story. Both characters are stubborn and hardheaded, but for Gabe, even through his struggles he’s overall a good natured, loveable man. Marley is one fierce, tenacious woman. She is determined with her plan, but what about her heart for her ex? Her struggles? Can she overcome them? Will The Plan workout in her favor?
The synopsis of this book totally drew me in. I am a fierce lover of all genres second chance romance and this had all the angsty, high tension, drama overload that I needed for me to be hooked. Yes, there were some subtle issues that could have made this story even better, flowed better, shined brighter (Gabe’s alcohol issues), but overall, Ella James won me over and that’s all that mattered.
4 Stars
October 6, 2020
This was just meh. I didn't quite feel the chemistry between the leads. The heroine is supposed to be a smart doctor yet she's extremely childish and dramatic. The hero was just unremarkable, and like I said before, couldn't figure how much he was into the heroine. The plot makes very little sense and falls flat. However, it's quite entertaining and super hot, and the writing is always pretty solid.
November 28, 2017
Some plans are overrated. Some have loopholes. Some are poorly thought out. Others are ignored. Plans aren't rules after all...
The Plan is a cute and sweet story of unusual circumstances. Exciting and panty melting but still unusual. It's all kinds of crazy mixed in with some serious spontaneity. After all, having a hot ex can be hazardous to your libido.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
The Plan is a cute and sweet story of unusual circumstances. Exciting and panty melting but still unusual. It's all kinds of crazy mixed in with some serious spontaneity. After all, having a hot ex can be hazardous to your libido.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
November 29, 2017
Loved this one Ella James!!! I love second chance romances...The Plan was funny, sexy, loved the Fate Alabama backdrop!
Marley & Gabe, they're awesome book leads!
Not seeing each other in a decade, their banter Omg I loved it!
Gabe and his moody growling 🔥🔥🔥
Marley and her "plan"!
Loved it, it's hard to put down FYI so don't start reading late at night lol
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommend this and anything Ella James writes!
Marley & Gabe, they're awesome book leads!
Not seeing each other in a decade, their banter Omg I loved it!
Gabe and his moody growling 🔥🔥🔥
Marley and her "plan"!
Loved it, it's hard to put down FYI so don't start reading late at night lol
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommend this and anything Ella James writes!
December 7, 2017
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
4 Pie Worthy Crowns
The Plan is an unexpected romance. Yes, it is second chance. Yes, there is a pregnancy plan. But that is really where it ends. The characters, particularly the hero, is darker than expected, their relationship is more tumultuous, and the story, although giving readers an HEA, has some unexpected plot developments.
Gabe is a pretty angry individual, and he takes his anger out on everyone, particularly Marley, seemingly for no reason. Although, he has reason to be angry with the world for what he is going through, he unnecessarily takes it out on Marley. For this reason, I found it hard to connect with him as a hero in the beginning. As Ella James develops his character, though, readers get a glimpse of what has hardened his walls, making him more likable. By the end of the book readers will love the evolution of his character, as he finally becomes the hero romances readers love.
Marley is another character who is hard to connect with at times. Marley shows immense strength in facing Gabe down at certain times in the story, and it is clear she has a large heart. There are moments, though, where she flees instead of stands, and these moments readers will want her to have some temerity, to face him down and make him treat her better. Her forgiveness, one of her best traits, does pay off for her in the end, and it is often a double edged sword when it comes to her likability and dealings with Gabe.
The chemistry between these two in the bedroom is sizzling, like off the charts, make me blush chemistry. Their physical intimacy legitimizes their actual relationship until their emotions catch up to their sexual interactions. These moments are some of my favorite in the whole book.
The Plan is definitely a hate to love story-line, heavy on the hate at the beginning. The animosity is off the charts, with little to no reason given. As the story progresses, the author reveals bits of information that only endears readers to their personalities but also allows them to make progress with their relationship. The final moments of the story are completely rewarding for all of the hatred shared between the two, and they come full circle, making the pay-off worth it.
The Plan, while not my favorite from the series of standalones, is still an enjoyable read, especially for those who enjoy hate/love relationships. There is animosity, passion, and, most importantly, love.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
__________
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
4 Pie Worthy Crowns
The Plan is an unexpected romance. Yes, it is second chance. Yes, there is a pregnancy plan. But that is really where it ends. The characters, particularly the hero, is darker than expected, their relationship is more tumultuous, and the story, although giving readers an HEA, has some unexpected plot developments.
Gabe is a pretty angry individual, and he takes his anger out on everyone, particularly Marley, seemingly for no reason. Although, he has reason to be angry with the world for what he is going through, he unnecessarily takes it out on Marley. For this reason, I found it hard to connect with him as a hero in the beginning. As Ella James develops his character, though, readers get a glimpse of what has hardened his walls, making him more likable. By the end of the book readers will love the evolution of his character, as he finally becomes the hero romances readers love.
Marley is another character who is hard to connect with at times. Marley shows immense strength in facing Gabe down at certain times in the story, and it is clear she has a large heart. There are moments, though, where she flees instead of stands, and these moments readers will want her to have some temerity, to face him down and make him treat her better. Her forgiveness, one of her best traits, does pay off for her in the end, and it is often a double edged sword when it comes to her likability and dealings with Gabe.
The chemistry between these two in the bedroom is sizzling, like off the charts, make me blush chemistry. Their physical intimacy legitimizes their actual relationship until their emotions catch up to their sexual interactions. These moments are some of my favorite in the whole book.
The Plan is definitely a hate to love story-line, heavy on the hate at the beginning. The animosity is off the charts, with little to no reason given. As the story progresses, the author reveals bits of information that only endears readers to their personalities but also allows them to make progress with their relationship. The final moments of the story are completely rewarding for all of the hatred shared between the two, and they come full circle, making the pay-off worth it.
The Plan, while not my favorite from the series of standalones, is still an enjoyable read, especially for those who enjoy hate/love relationships. There is animosity, passion, and, most importantly, love.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
__________
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed this angsty, hot-as-hell read!
"I stand and watch him for a moment, trying to understand how he still feels like mine."
Marley never really planned to settle back down in her hometown, Fate, but that's exactly where the direction of her life takes her. And, she certainly never expected to bump into her ex-husband of twelve years. Nor, expect him to be her downstairs neighbour.
"I can't help the way my gaze caresses her curves. Mine. Except - they're not. And isn't that strange?"
Gabriel is an asshole. He's hostile and tries to drive her away the day she arrives. He's back in Fate with a ton of baggage, dealing with his demons and the aftermath of a shocking revelation. Seeing Marley again is a shock but he can't help obsessing about her.
"His mouth is on my throat like something hot and hungry, hard now - I can feel his teeth - and I can't stop a little cry that's really more a moan."
I found this quite a compelling read. No matter how much time has passed since they last saw one another, the fascination and chemistry between them burns as brightly as ever.
Gabriel is so intense! He's obviously hurting over something and battling with something else, every day, while he blows hot and cold towards Marley. In a moment of mad clarity, she suggests The Plan to him. He finds it incredibly hard to do anything else but agree, as the pull Gabriel feels towards her is undeniable and far too tempting. In the chaos of his life, she had always given him peace and was a safe place to fall.
"We can be unmarried for eternity, and you'll still be the one I love."
This story deals with so many issues, but the passion between them is real and all-consuming. I absolutely loved how the story drew to a close - it was very romantic, heartwarming, and ended on a really optimistic and happy note.
"I stand and watch him for a moment, trying to understand how he still feels like mine."
Marley never really planned to settle back down in her hometown, Fate, but that's exactly where the direction of her life takes her. And, she certainly never expected to bump into her ex-husband of twelve years. Nor, expect him to be her downstairs neighbour.
"I can't help the way my gaze caresses her curves. Mine. Except - they're not. And isn't that strange?"
Gabriel is an asshole. He's hostile and tries to drive her away the day she arrives. He's back in Fate with a ton of baggage, dealing with his demons and the aftermath of a shocking revelation. Seeing Marley again is a shock but he can't help obsessing about her.
"His mouth is on my throat like something hot and hungry, hard now - I can feel his teeth - and I can't stop a little cry that's really more a moan."
I found this quite a compelling read. No matter how much time has passed since they last saw one another, the fascination and chemistry between them burns as brightly as ever.
Gabriel is so intense! He's obviously hurting over something and battling with something else, every day, while he blows hot and cold towards Marley. In a moment of mad clarity, she suggests The Plan to him. He finds it incredibly hard to do anything else but agree, as the pull Gabriel feels towards her is undeniable and far too tempting. In the chaos of his life, she had always given him peace and was a safe place to fall.
"We can be unmarried for eternity, and you'll still be the one I love."
This story deals with so many issues, but the passion between them is real and all-consuming. I absolutely loved how the story drew to a close - it was very romantic, heartwarming, and ended on a really optimistic and happy note.
November 30, 2017
WOW! What a fantastic 2nd chance romance story by Ella James. This is an emotional, touching story that will have you rooting for the main characters in this story.
Marley moves back into her hometown in Alabama to help take care of her very ill mother. The past 10 years has been pretty bad for Marley- first her fiancée lied to her and didn’t tell her that he had a vasectomy, then the IVF she had done worked but she ended up miscarrying. She wants to try IVF again but she is broke because it took all her money to do the IVF to begin with. So she is back home, to help with her mom and build up her funds to try again. Thing is, she arrives in her new place she finds another possibility. Her ex-husband Gabe. The man she left 12 years before and has never really forgotten.
Gabe McKellan had been living in NYC and was back in Fate, Alabama. He is a famous author who moved to Fate a few months back after something happened in his life that has hurt him and shook him up terribly which , as of yet, hasn’t gotten out in the press. He has a lot of things he keeps to himself, secrets- which keeps him aloof and away from the folks of Fate. Because of his secrets, that is also what caused a lot of the problems in his marriage to Marley during the very brief time that they were married. He didn’t trust and he didn’t open up. When Gabe finds out Marley is renting out the top floor of the place he is staying at, he is quite insistent that she needs to leave. He is so insistent about it, he is quite loud. Marley at first gave thought to moving but then changed her mind and thought instead of her being the one to leave like before, he needs to be the one to leave.
There is misunderstandings and miscommunications between Marley and Gabe. It takes few too many drinks to get some things out in the open before there can be an olive branch. From that, we see these two start to really open up and they remember how good things were between them before it went all downhill.
Thing is, Marley wants Gabe. She wants him to father her child. She comes up with THE PLAN. She writes everything out so there is no confusion between them down the road. Gabe then agrees to father her child but things don’t go to plan…and what a ride they go on. There are twists and turns this story takes. There are highs and there are lows. I was completely and totally rooting for this awesome couple to get their HEA. And I have to say, this story gives you FEELS…This story has angst, anger, heartbreak, joy, confusion, tension, drama, passion, and above all, love. This is a story you do not want to miss. Ms. James wrote a story that will capture your heart. I voluntarily reviewed this story that kept me very interested until the end.
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
Marley moves back into her hometown in Alabama to help take care of her very ill mother. The past 10 years has been pretty bad for Marley- first her fiancée lied to her and didn’t tell her that he had a vasectomy, then the IVF she had done worked but she ended up miscarrying. She wants to try IVF again but she is broke because it took all her money to do the IVF to begin with. So she is back home, to help with her mom and build up her funds to try again. Thing is, she arrives in her new place she finds another possibility. Her ex-husband Gabe. The man she left 12 years before and has never really forgotten.
Gabe McKellan had been living in NYC and was back in Fate, Alabama. He is a famous author who moved to Fate a few months back after something happened in his life that has hurt him and shook him up terribly which , as of yet, hasn’t gotten out in the press. He has a lot of things he keeps to himself, secrets- which keeps him aloof and away from the folks of Fate. Because of his secrets, that is also what caused a lot of the problems in his marriage to Marley during the very brief time that they were married. He didn’t trust and he didn’t open up. When Gabe finds out Marley is renting out the top floor of the place he is staying at, he is quite insistent that she needs to leave. He is so insistent about it, he is quite loud. Marley at first gave thought to moving but then changed her mind and thought instead of her being the one to leave like before, he needs to be the one to leave.
There is misunderstandings and miscommunications between Marley and Gabe. It takes few too many drinks to get some things out in the open before there can be an olive branch. From that, we see these two start to really open up and they remember how good things were between them before it went all downhill.
Thing is, Marley wants Gabe. She wants him to father her child. She comes up with THE PLAN. She writes everything out so there is no confusion between them down the road. Gabe then agrees to father her child but things don’t go to plan…and what a ride they go on. There are twists and turns this story takes. There are highs and there are lows. I was completely and totally rooting for this awesome couple to get their HEA. And I have to say, this story gives you FEELS…This story has angst, anger, heartbreak, joy, confusion, tension, drama, passion, and above all, love. This is a story you do not want to miss. Ms. James wrote a story that will capture your heart. I voluntarily reviewed this story that kept me very interested until the end.
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
November 30, 2017
Emotional and a bit tragic.
I love these characters, Marley and Gabe just seem so very human. They have flaws and strengths. The book is written so well that you really feel all of their emotions...the hurt, the hope, the despair, and the happiness.
Looks like Fate has brought these two souls together again. They definitely have a past. But, time and room for growth has changed them both.
Surprising.
Intense.
Steamy.
This book was hot and cold and everything in between...with a really good ending.
I love these characters, Marley and Gabe just seem so very human. They have flaws and strengths. The book is written so well that you really feel all of their emotions...the hurt, the hope, the despair, and the happiness.
Looks like Fate has brought these two souls together again. They definitely have a past. But, time and room for growth has changed them both.
Surprising.
Intense.
Steamy.
This book was hot and cold and everything in between...with a really good ending.
November 28, 2017
Marley does not hold back, “you have the best ***k,” she says, more to it than me. “I’ve thought so even when the rest of you is a ***k, too.” There are times Gabe likes to spoil his girl, "I come behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist… around her belly. I can’t help myself. “Do you see anything you like?” I ask her, peering down at all the jewels." I liked this book, loved the characters.
December 6, 2017
This was a very sexy, fun second chance romance!
Marley moves back home to her small hometown of Fate, Alabama to be closer to her ailing mom. Yes that's right, the town is called Fate, appropriately named for the theme of this book. Surprise, surprise she ends up renting the floor in a house right above her ex-husband Gabe. Their marriage ended on a really bad note and so this sort of read as a enemies to lovers as well.
I really loved the beginning and the end of this book but the middle sort of fell flat. From their initial meeting, I loved the bickering and all the snide comments between Gabe and Marley. The humor was great in this part of the book.
Marley was a great heroine. She knew what she wanted and she went after it. She makes a proposal to Gabe and he takes her up on it. From here their attraction is undeniable and this book takes on a serious level of sexy. This was definitely a HOT book and while they were well done, I thought there were maybe a tad bit too many steamy scenes.
Gabe has some serious issues that he has to deal with and it takes him a while to figure out his feelings for Marley. However once he does, he turns into this swoon worthy hero who I would have fell in love with if he was like that for the entire book instead of showing up right at the end.
Overall, this was a nice second chance romance that had its brief moments of great humor and romantic swoon and lots of steamy hot scenes.
3 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: HOT
POV: Dual
HEA
COME FIND ME!
Marley moves back home to her small hometown of Fate, Alabama to be closer to her ailing mom. Yes that's right, the town is called Fate, appropriately named for the theme of this book. Surprise, surprise she ends up renting the floor in a house right above her ex-husband Gabe. Their marriage ended on a really bad note and so this sort of read as a enemies to lovers as well.
I really loved the beginning and the end of this book but the middle sort of fell flat. From their initial meeting, I loved the bickering and all the snide comments between Gabe and Marley. The humor was great in this part of the book.
Marley was a great heroine. She knew what she wanted and she went after it. She makes a proposal to Gabe and he takes her up on it. From here their attraction is undeniable and this book takes on a serious level of sexy. This was definitely a HOT book and while they were well done, I thought there were maybe a tad bit too many steamy scenes.
Gabe has some serious issues that he has to deal with and it takes him a while to figure out his feelings for Marley. However once he does, he turns into this swoon worthy hero who I would have fell in love with if he was like that for the entire book instead of showing up right at the end.
Overall, this was a nice second chance romance that had its brief moments of great humor and romantic swoon and lots of steamy hot scenes.
3 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: HOT
POV: Dual
HEA
COME FIND ME!
November 30, 2017
Review by Lisa Kane
I love a second chance at love romance-a rekindling of those dormant feelings that made you feel so alive the first time around. That is up until it crashed and burned.
Marley has returned to her old hometown. She wants to keep an eye on her mom, who has some major issues. It’s been a long time since she’s been home and she’s not exactly thrilled about it. She’s made arrangements to rent the upper level of an apartment and hopes she will settle back in. So when she comes face to face with her ex-husband- Gabe McKellan, she thinks things can’t get any worse. Their ending wasn’t amicable and he wastes no time telling her to get lost.
Marley is feeling pretty low right now. She had a bad break up with her boyfriend and she still is yearning for a child. Her medical career could use a good jumpstart but the most important thing in her life is her desire to have a child. What a twist of fate has brought her to her roots and her ex.
From the blurb, I thought this would be a fun, flirty read. But somewhere along the way, it lost my attention. Gabe is dark and moody and Marley makes so many poor choices. Not to mention that when Marley is at her lowest, I thought Gabe acted like a total asshat. And his past is so messy with unnecessary drama from his ex.
Ella James’ books are usually some of my favs so I won’t let this one deter me from picking up any future releases.
I love a second chance at love romance-a rekindling of those dormant feelings that made you feel so alive the first time around. That is up until it crashed and burned.
Marley has returned to her old hometown. She wants to keep an eye on her mom, who has some major issues. It’s been a long time since she’s been home and she’s not exactly thrilled about it. She’s made arrangements to rent the upper level of an apartment and hopes she will settle back in. So when she comes face to face with her ex-husband- Gabe McKellan, she thinks things can’t get any worse. Their ending wasn’t amicable and he wastes no time telling her to get lost.
Marley is feeling pretty low right now. She had a bad break up with her boyfriend and she still is yearning for a child. Her medical career could use a good jumpstart but the most important thing in her life is her desire to have a child. What a twist of fate has brought her to her roots and her ex.
From the blurb, I thought this would be a fun, flirty read. But somewhere along the way, it lost my attention. Gabe is dark and moody and Marley makes so many poor choices. Not to mention that when Marley is at her lowest, I thought Gabe acted like a total asshat. And his past is so messy with unnecessary drama from his ex.
Ella James’ books are usually some of my favs so I won’t let this one deter me from picking up any future releases.
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