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Around the World #2
The Big Uneasy
They say opposites attract, but can lightning strike twice?
Rebecca has convinced Arabella to accompany her on a trip to New Orleans. Both women are struggling to figure out their new relationship as Rebecca gives Arabella the space she requests, and Arabella comes to terms with her unexpected feelings for the younger woman.
Meeting Rebecca’s friend, Jenn, gives them the chance to learn more about each other. While Jenn starts to fall for her own older woman from out of town.
The second book in the Around the World Series, following on from the smash hit success The Road Ahead.
Includes an exclusive preview of Welcome to Ruby's by author KC Luck, as well as the first chapter of my own best selling novel Bring Holly Home.
Rebecca has convinced Arabella to accompany her on a trip to New Orleans. Both women are struggling to figure out their new relationship as Rebecca gives Arabella the space she requests, and Arabella comes to terms with her unexpected feelings for the younger woman.
Meeting Rebecca’s friend, Jenn, gives them the chance to learn more about each other. While Jenn starts to fall for her own older woman from out of town.
The second book in the Around the World Series, following on from the smash hit success The Road Ahead.
Includes an exclusive preview of Welcome to Ruby's by author KC Luck, as well as the first chapter of my own best selling novel Bring Holly Home.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2018
115 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Radley
30 books468 followers***While I have a profile here on Goodreads, it is only to administer my books when necessary (add them, change covers etc).
I do not answer messages on here, I do not engage in groups, and I do not read the reviews.
I believe Goodreads is a place for readers and not authors and so I stay away for the most part. If you do want to contact me, please go to my website***
A.E. Radley is an entrepreneur and best-selling author living and working in England.
She describes herself as a Wife. Traveller. Tea Drinker. Biscuit Eater. Animal Lover. Master Pragmatist. Annoying Procrastinator. Theme Park Fan. Movie Buff.
When not writing or working, Radley indulges in her third passion of buying unnecessary cat accessories on a popular online store for her two ungrateful strays whom she has threatened to return for the last seven years.
I do not answer messages on here, I do not engage in groups, and I do not read the reviews.
I believe Goodreads is a place for readers and not authors and so I stay away for the most part. If you do want to contact me, please go to my website***
A.E. Radley is an entrepreneur and best-selling author living and working in England.
She describes herself as a Wife. Traveller. Tea Drinker. Biscuit Eater. Animal Lover. Master Pragmatist. Annoying Procrastinator. Theme Park Fan. Movie Buff.
When not writing or working, Radley indulges in her third passion of buying unnecessary cat accessories on a popular online store for her two ungrateful strays whom she has threatened to return for the last seven years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 13, 2018
3.75 Stars. This was another good book by Radley. I think I might have liked the first book in this series a tiny bit better, but I was happy to see more romance added in this second installment. Therefore, I decided to go with the same rating for both books. This is a sweet series that is very readable.
One of my favorite parts about this book was the setting. New Orleans is one of my favorite cities to visit and I really thought Radley captured the magic and vibe of New Orleans. I would be shocked if Radley had not actually spent time there, everything she described was so accurate you can’t just get that off the internet. Anyway, she used the setting to enhance the story and it was well written.
When it came to the romance we actually have four main characters this time. The same couple from the first book, and a new potential couple. This book still falls in the slow burn category. You have two people just meeting and two people trying to get out of the “friend zone”. Normally I would get a little antsy after two books with things moving slowly; I just didn’t mind this time. It felt a tiny bit dragged out, but I cared about the couple from the first book so it didn’t really bother me. The couple made progress and that’s what I wanted. Don’t read these books for steamy sex scenes, there aren’t any, but they are sweet slow burn romances anyway.
These two books are connected. While I guess you could skip the first if you had too, I would recommend starting at book one. These are sweet enjoyable romances that I think fans of Radley will like reading.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
One of my favorite parts about this book was the setting. New Orleans is one of my favorite cities to visit and I really thought Radley captured the magic and vibe of New Orleans. I would be shocked if Radley had not actually spent time there, everything she described was so accurate you can’t just get that off the internet. Anyway, she used the setting to enhance the story and it was well written.
When it came to the romance we actually have four main characters this time. The same couple from the first book, and a new potential couple. This book still falls in the slow burn category. You have two people just meeting and two people trying to get out of the “friend zone”. Normally I would get a little antsy after two books with things moving slowly; I just didn’t mind this time. It felt a tiny bit dragged out, but I cared about the couple from the first book so it didn’t really bother me. The couple made progress and that’s what I wanted. Don’t read these books for steamy sex scenes, there aren’t any, but they are sweet slow burn romances anyway.
These two books are connected. While I guess you could skip the first if you had too, I would recommend starting at book one. These are sweet enjoyable romances that I think fans of Radley will like reading.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
October 9, 2018
There are some things I really like in a romance novel and they are things like having two pairs of main characters, dialogue with lots of witty banter and I love well-written novels set in New Orleans. There is so much diversity, quirkiness and history there that it can’t help but seep into the novel even when it’s not overt. The Big Uneasy has all of these things, as well as some history, which is probably why it worked for me.
Jenn is working one of her part time jobs at a bar when she notices a loud fight between two women across the road. A gorgeous brunette is dumped on the side of the road with her luggage and the car she came in drives off. Calling New Orleans a ‘sordid hellhole’ might not have been the best way to endear people but Jenn serves her anyway and gives her directions to her hotel. Kathryn stomps off.
Rebecca and Arabella are on their way from London to New Orleans, partly to see Jenn and partly as a vacation. Both characters are from ‘The Road Ahead’, the first instalment in the story. (This novel can be read as a standalone. I didn’t read the first and had no difficulty following Rebecca and Arabella’s storyline). There is quite a bit of tension between the two and things are not going as well as Rebecca hoped they would.
While the story is really Jenn and Kathryn’s story, Rebecca and Arabella play quite an integral role. Kathryn initially seems like the ice-queen stereotype but it quickly becomes obvious that it’s more of a case of bad temper at being hijacked and general overwork. Jenn is easily and instantly likeable but I found it very easy to become attached to Kathryn too. There is a great dynamic between the four of them both as two couples as well as interactions between any combination of them. I enjoyed the mix of good communication juxtaposed with some really shoddy communication.
A whole host of topics were touched on too, like body-image, age, sexuality, I was riveted from the moment I picked it up until it was finished. I did have a moment when Kathryn’s story was unravelling that I raised my eyebrow (figuratively – because my one-eyebrow -raising muscles are defunct) but I had enjoyed the story so much by that point that I let it go. Great pace and wonderful story.
Book received from the author for an honest review.
Jenn is working one of her part time jobs at a bar when she notices a loud fight between two women across the road. A gorgeous brunette is dumped on the side of the road with her luggage and the car she came in drives off. Calling New Orleans a ‘sordid hellhole’ might not have been the best way to endear people but Jenn serves her anyway and gives her directions to her hotel. Kathryn stomps off.
Rebecca and Arabella are on their way from London to New Orleans, partly to see Jenn and partly as a vacation. Both characters are from ‘The Road Ahead’, the first instalment in the story. (This novel can be read as a standalone. I didn’t read the first and had no difficulty following Rebecca and Arabella’s storyline). There is quite a bit of tension between the two and things are not going as well as Rebecca hoped they would.
While the story is really Jenn and Kathryn’s story, Rebecca and Arabella play quite an integral role. Kathryn initially seems like the ice-queen stereotype but it quickly becomes obvious that it’s more of a case of bad temper at being hijacked and general overwork. Jenn is easily and instantly likeable but I found it very easy to become attached to Kathryn too. There is a great dynamic between the four of them both as two couples as well as interactions between any combination of them. I enjoyed the mix of good communication juxtaposed with some really shoddy communication.
A whole host of topics were touched on too, like body-image, age, sexuality, I was riveted from the moment I picked it up until it was finished. I did have a moment when Kathryn’s story was unravelling that I raised my eyebrow (figuratively – because my one-eyebrow -raising muscles are defunct) but I had enjoyed the story so much by that point that I let it go. Great pace and wonderful story.
Book received from the author for an honest review.
October 25, 2018
This is one of those books where it needs to be immediately noted that this book here is: 1) a sequel and 2) first book must be read first.
There are many romance series that follow one couple in book one, then a different in book two, and so forth and so on. With the couple from the first book either making cameos or playing secondary character parts in sequels. Here? That’s not what is happening here.
Course you might not immediately know that from the start of the book, since it starts in the POV of ‘some other character’. But yes, this is a continuation of the story of Rebecca and Arabella. First seen more or less hating each other as they drive together from Portugal to London. Developing a certain connection along the way. Quite frankly I do no actually remember how the book ended – were they a couple? Thinking about it? I do know they made it back to England by the end of the book, and Arabella had learned why Rebecca was in such a rush to get back, and Arabella had made some life-altering changes before the final words appeared, but I do not completely recall how it ended.
This book doesn’t exactly help bring the ending back into focus for me. Since so there was so much ‘stuff’ about some car ride to Scotland, disastrous car-ride, that I was beginning to think I might have accidentally read/started book three, but no, this is in fact book two.
But enough of that.
The book sees Arabella and Rebecca taking a vacation together in New Orleans – there to visit Rebecca’s friend Jenn (the person whose POV opens the book). Arabella and Rebecca are in a ‘friends-but-maybe-possibly-something-more-might-eventually-occur’ situation. As in, Arabella is still having her big long think about just what she is and how Rebecca fits into her life (or, more exactly, is Arabella a lesbian? Bisexual? What?).
Meanwhile Jenn lives and works in New Orleans. Has for a longish while (there was indication that she graduated from a college in Boston, wandered to New Orleans to find work in the business sector, couldn’t find any, took part time work and now it’s today –> then there was the comment that, after years, she’d moved up the ladder on a particular steamboat and was now the host, meaning that it has been a longish while, not a short while since that graduation. I say all that so I can note that she’s probably close to late twenties, early thirties when everyone around her kind of sees her as early twenties, but, whatever).
While working in one of her many jobs, a bartender at a slushie bar (alcoholic slushies), she watches as a woman is dumped from a car outside. Hehe, no no, not like that. Car drives up, woman exits, starts pulling bags from trunk, another woman appears and attempts to stop the removal of bags. It would appear that the driver is ‘forcing’ the other woman to ‘vacation’ in New Orleans, which that other woman loudly calls ‘a sordid hellhole’. That ‘other woman’ who is being ‘dumped’ in New Orleans is the fourth Point of View in the story – though it takes forever for her turn at the POV controls. That other woman goes by the name ‘Kathryn’.
There’s kind of an intentional creation made here – two similar couples I mean. One side of the coupling includes someone younger and more ‘free’; other older, stiffer, and more stiff business orientated. Though one coupling involves English people, and other involves Americans. Several of the people in the story make comments about these similarities. Though, as noted, Jenn, from her backstory, appears to be much older than people might realize, and there is a strong indication that Kathryn is closer to mid to early thirties than to any other age. So there probably isn’t much age gap between Jenn and Kathryn’s ages. At least nothing more than about 5 years or so.
I rather liked watching the story unfold, though . . . there was a little too much repetition. Well . . . hmms. I mean the two younger lesbians (‘I’m not a lesbian! I’m pansexual!’ – Jenn is the pansexual, she leans towards women and hasn’t dated a man in forever; I forget if Rebecca gave herself a label) watching the two older ‘straight’ women try to work out just what these unexpected feelings towards other women (or, more exactly, just one other woman) might mean.
There were some neat scenes – like riding around on the streetcar, but there also seemed to be a little too much . . ., how to put it, mention of things seen instead of showing; mixed with showing certain things occurring. Bah, I cannot convey correctly.
Good story that entertained me.
Rating: 3.92
October 24 2018
There are many romance series that follow one couple in book one, then a different in book two, and so forth and so on. With the couple from the first book either making cameos or playing secondary character parts in sequels. Here? That’s not what is happening here.
Course you might not immediately know that from the start of the book, since it starts in the POV of ‘some other character’. But yes, this is a continuation of the story of Rebecca and Arabella. First seen more or less hating each other as they drive together from Portugal to London. Developing a certain connection along the way. Quite frankly I do no actually remember how the book ended – were they a couple? Thinking about it? I do know they made it back to England by the end of the book, and Arabella had learned why Rebecca was in such a rush to get back, and Arabella had made some life-altering changes before the final words appeared, but I do not completely recall how it ended.
This book doesn’t exactly help bring the ending back into focus for me. Since so there was so much ‘stuff’ about some car ride to Scotland, disastrous car-ride, that I was beginning to think I might have accidentally read/started book three, but no, this is in fact book two.
But enough of that.
The book sees Arabella and Rebecca taking a vacation together in New Orleans – there to visit Rebecca’s friend Jenn (the person whose POV opens the book). Arabella and Rebecca are in a ‘friends-but-maybe-possibly-something-more-might-eventually-occur’ situation. As in, Arabella is still having her big long think about just what she is and how Rebecca fits into her life (or, more exactly, is Arabella a lesbian? Bisexual? What?).
Meanwhile Jenn lives and works in New Orleans. Has for a longish while (there was indication that she graduated from a college in Boston, wandered to New Orleans to find work in the business sector, couldn’t find any, took part time work and now it’s today –> then there was the comment that, after years, she’d moved up the ladder on a particular steamboat and was now the host, meaning that it has been a longish while, not a short while since that graduation. I say all that so I can note that she’s probably close to late twenties, early thirties when everyone around her kind of sees her as early twenties, but, whatever).
While working in one of her many jobs, a bartender at a slushie bar (alcoholic slushies), she watches as a woman is dumped from a car outside. Hehe, no no, not like that. Car drives up, woman exits, starts pulling bags from trunk, another woman appears and attempts to stop the removal of bags. It would appear that the driver is ‘forcing’ the other woman to ‘vacation’ in New Orleans, which that other woman loudly calls ‘a sordid hellhole’. That ‘other woman’ who is being ‘dumped’ in New Orleans is the fourth Point of View in the story – though it takes forever for her turn at the POV controls. That other woman goes by the name ‘Kathryn’.
There’s kind of an intentional creation made here – two similar couples I mean. One side of the coupling includes someone younger and more ‘free’; other older, stiffer, and more stiff business orientated. Though one coupling involves English people, and other involves Americans. Several of the people in the story make comments about these similarities. Though, as noted, Jenn, from her backstory, appears to be much older than people might realize, and there is a strong indication that Kathryn is closer to mid to early thirties than to any other age. So there probably isn’t much age gap between Jenn and Kathryn’s ages. At least nothing more than about 5 years or so.
I rather liked watching the story unfold, though . . . there was a little too much repetition. Well . . . hmms. I mean the two younger lesbians (‘I’m not a lesbian! I’m pansexual!’ – Jenn is the pansexual, she leans towards women and hasn’t dated a man in forever; I forget if Rebecca gave herself a label) watching the two older ‘straight’ women try to work out just what these unexpected feelings towards other women (or, more exactly, just one other woman) might mean.
There were some neat scenes – like riding around on the streetcar, but there also seemed to be a little too much . . ., how to put it, mention of things seen instead of showing; mixed with showing certain things occurring. Bah, I cannot convey correctly.
Good story that entertained me.
Rating: 3.92
October 24 2018
February 28, 2019
Part of me was worried about starting this book. Not because of the writing, on the contrary, I really like the author's work. Ok that's not true I roughly like three quarters of her work and I don't mean the amount of books as a whole but three quarters of every book because somehow she always manages to ruin the last part.
Honestly I'm a little heartbroken because of how much I loved and adored these characters and their little and sometimes larger idiosyncrasies. There were some very important issues addressed, ranging from age difference to trying to find what label best suits your sexuality. I loved that the author wrote about how confusing it all can be when you first come to terms with being attracted to a woman and the constant new labels popping up that society expects you to tattoo onto your forehead.
Though these issues aren't the easiest to deal with, the author addressed it all in such a lighthearted and often humorous manner that I dreaded the moment when I was forced to take a break and get some sleep. The story was that good and was heading towards a 5* rating!
Then I soon realized what some other reviewers were also not happy about. I totally understand some writers wanting to create conflict towards the end because they want the characters to really work and fight for their relationship but Kathryn's character became a hatchet job!
How did no one who read this story before publishing tell AE Radley "Hey you're not writing an episode for Jane the Virgin, tone it down with the craziness and character assassination!" I feel like I need to make a new shelf for books called "loved the first 3/4, hated the last 1/4".
Serves me right for reading what is essentially a MirAndy & SwanQueen fan fiction mashup. I can't be the only one who noticed that right?
First 3/4 gets a 5* and the last 1/4 gets a 2* giving this a 3,5* overall rating.
Honestly I'm a little heartbroken because of how much I loved and adored these characters and their little and sometimes larger idiosyncrasies. There were some very important issues addressed, ranging from age difference to trying to find what label best suits your sexuality. I loved that the author wrote about how confusing it all can be when you first come to terms with being attracted to a woman and the constant new labels popping up that society expects you to tattoo onto your forehead.
Though these issues aren't the easiest to deal with, the author addressed it all in such a lighthearted and often humorous manner that I dreaded the moment when I was forced to take a break and get some sleep. The story was that good and was heading towards a 5* rating!
Then I soon realized what some other reviewers were also not happy about. I totally understand some writers wanting to create conflict towards the end because they want the characters to really work and fight for their relationship but Kathryn's character became a hatchet job!
How did no one who read this story before publishing tell AE Radley "Hey you're not writing an episode for Jane the Virgin, tone it down with the craziness and character assassination!" I feel like I need to make a new shelf for books called "loved the first 3/4, hated the last 1/4".
Serves me right for reading what is essentially a MirAndy & SwanQueen fan fiction mashup. I can't be the only one who noticed that right?
First 3/4 gets a 5* and the last 1/4 gets a 2* giving this a 3,5* overall rating.
October 22, 2018
A. E. Radley's latest is a combination of bloody genius and cluster####
I love Rebecca and Arabella, I appreciated that Ms.Radley gave them more time to progress to the next levels.
Arabella had a few sessions with the green eyed monster, Rebecca was awesome as always but she did get herself into trouble with Arabella in chapter 16-Professional Pain In My Arse, it was pretty hilarious..
After they had 'the talk' though, all sorts of lovey dovey feelings appeared as they took the next step as a couple; Boo-Boo and Possum.
The journey ahead had bumps and potholes but they were handling those together.
Jenn and Kathryn deserved their own book.
Kathryn was straight, she loved repeating her sexual orientation status to anyone and anywhere including in a Lesbian bar to Jenn before Jenn hypnotized her with a burlesque performance. Extremely funny chapter!
Jenn was one of a kind person, gifted, hardworking, generous yet unlucky in love. Kathryn was lucky to have Jenn in her life but if she ever screwed up again, Echo will have my support.
Jenn and Kathryn had chemistry to be something greater but it needed more time to be explored/developed. However, everything was jammed up into the last few chapters and I was unsatisfied. Imagine 2OO+ episodes of Telenovela crammed into a single 45 minutes episode.
Nevertheless, it was still a good book especially for fans of Rebecca and Arabella ♥️, including myself.
This book is available on KU/Unavailable on Scribd.
Kindle price USD6.99
I love Rebecca and Arabella, I appreciated that Ms.Radley gave them more time to progress to the next levels.
Arabella had a few sessions with the green eyed monster, Rebecca was awesome as always but she did get herself into trouble with Arabella in chapter 16-Professional Pain In My Arse, it was pretty hilarious..
After they had 'the talk' though, all sorts of lovey dovey feelings appeared as they took the next step as a couple; Boo-Boo and Possum.
The journey ahead had bumps and potholes but they were handling those together.
Jenn and Kathryn deserved their own book.
Kathryn was straight, she loved repeating her sexual orientation status to anyone and anywhere including in a Lesbian bar to Jenn before Jenn hypnotized her with a burlesque performance. Extremely funny chapter!
Jenn was one of a kind person, gifted, hardworking, generous yet unlucky in love. Kathryn was lucky to have Jenn in her life but if she ever screwed up again, Echo will have my support.
Jenn and Kathryn had chemistry to be something greater but it needed more time to be explored/developed. However, everything was jammed up into the last few chapters and I was unsatisfied. Imagine 2OO+ episodes of Telenovela crammed into a single 45 minutes episode.
Nevertheless, it was still a good book especially for fans of Rebecca and Arabella ♥️, including myself.
This book is available on KU/Unavailable on Scribd.
Kindle price USD6.99
October 24, 2018
A story set in New Orleans? Bring on the beignets and the toaster ovens.
We first met Arabella and Rebecca in The Road Ahead. They are a couple who are still working out their relationship in this second book of the series. Rebecca is all in, happy to bring Arabella away from the demands of her job and hoping she will see her as more than merely a travel companion. Arabella is grappling with her attraction to Rebecca and her own insecurities about their relationship.
Jenn and Kathryn are the more interesting couple in this second book in the series. They meet by accident when Kathryn’s sister dumps her in the big easy for a forced vacation. Jenn sets about proving to Kathryn that NOLA is a wonderful city to explore and experience. I loved the free spirited Jenn whose resume reads like every kids career wish list. She is the eternal optimist, not afraid to chat up the rage filled Kathryn when they first meet. Kathryn was the perfect foil for the almost too perfect Jenn. A.E. Radley’s dry humour lifts the book from just another romance to an entertaining travelogue with heart and lots of laughs along the way.
The ending felt rushed and a bit over the top and did take some of the pleasure away from the story as a whole. My hope is that we readers will be rewarded with more time spent with these two couples in the next book in the series.
ARC received with thanks from the author for an honest review.
We first met Arabella and Rebecca in The Road Ahead. They are a couple who are still working out their relationship in this second book of the series. Rebecca is all in, happy to bring Arabella away from the demands of her job and hoping she will see her as more than merely a travel companion. Arabella is grappling with her attraction to Rebecca and her own insecurities about their relationship.
Jenn and Kathryn are the more interesting couple in this second book in the series. They meet by accident when Kathryn’s sister dumps her in the big easy for a forced vacation. Jenn sets about proving to Kathryn that NOLA is a wonderful city to explore and experience. I loved the free spirited Jenn whose resume reads like every kids career wish list. She is the eternal optimist, not afraid to chat up the rage filled Kathryn when they first meet. Kathryn was the perfect foil for the almost too perfect Jenn. A.E. Radley’s dry humour lifts the book from just another romance to an entertaining travelogue with heart and lots of laughs along the way.
The ending felt rushed and a bit over the top and did take some of the pleasure away from the story as a whole. My hope is that we readers will be rewarded with more time spent with these two couples in the next book in the series.
ARC received with thanks from the author for an honest review.
October 23, 2018
I hadn’t realised how desperate I had been for a sequel to The Road Ahead until I started reading this book.
Arabella and Rebecca from The Road Ahead are travelling to New Orleans. Arabella has well and truly put her relationship with Rebecca in the friend zone and now can’t find a way out of it. She now knows her feelings for Rebecca are deepening each day.
Rebecca’s friend, Jenn lives in NOLA and is unbelievably passionate about her city. When out-of-towner, Kathryn turns up in her bar in nothing but a bad mood and bad attitude about her beloved city, Jen decides to change her mind.
Great book and what looks to be the start of an excellent series. I would advise reading The Road Ahead first.
Main characters Arabella and Rebecca stole the show to be honest. I think I really needed more from them in the previous book and boy did I get more of it in this one. Rebecca is kind and respectful to a fault. She wants to give Arabella space to come to her own conclusion about their relationship but Arabella is just scared and few times I wanted to call her up to say “Hey lady… Get your skates on before you loose her”. But alas, I didn’t need to because by the end A.E. Radley had me swooning, as I knew she would, at the loveliness of these two.
Also there is a scene in this book that I think might be the sexiest scene that A.E. Radley has ever written. As soon as it happens you will know what I am talking about but it definitely left me a little hot under the collar.
As for Kathryn and Jenn’s story… Wow!!! There is a massive twist that in all honesty, I had no idea was coming. It blew me away. I am almost too scared to say anything about these two in case I give the story away. So all I will say is I really hope they are in the next book Amanda writes because I am a little taken with them both and where their relationship could go.
I honestly think this is one of the best books A.E. Radley has written. Story is tight, she gives each character enough page time and the story had just the right amount of twists and turns.
5 stars.
Quote of the book:
“I’m pansexual, but I favour relationships with women”
Arabella and Rebecca from The Road Ahead are travelling to New Orleans. Arabella has well and truly put her relationship with Rebecca in the friend zone and now can’t find a way out of it. She now knows her feelings for Rebecca are deepening each day.
Rebecca’s friend, Jenn lives in NOLA and is unbelievably passionate about her city. When out-of-towner, Kathryn turns up in her bar in nothing but a bad mood and bad attitude about her beloved city, Jen decides to change her mind.
Great book and what looks to be the start of an excellent series. I would advise reading The Road Ahead first.
Main characters Arabella and Rebecca stole the show to be honest. I think I really needed more from them in the previous book and boy did I get more of it in this one. Rebecca is kind and respectful to a fault. She wants to give Arabella space to come to her own conclusion about their relationship but Arabella is just scared and few times I wanted to call her up to say “Hey lady… Get your skates on before you loose her”. But alas, I didn’t need to because by the end A.E. Radley had me swooning, as I knew she would, at the loveliness of these two.
Also there is a scene in this book that I think might be the sexiest scene that A.E. Radley has ever written. As soon as it happens you will know what I am talking about but it definitely left me a little hot under the collar.
As for Kathryn and Jenn’s story… Wow!!! There is a massive twist that in all honesty, I had no idea was coming. It blew me away. I am almost too scared to say anything about these two in case I give the story away. So all I will say is I really hope they are in the next book Amanda writes because I am a little taken with them both and where their relationship could go.
I honestly think this is one of the best books A.E. Radley has written. Story is tight, she gives each character enough page time and the story had just the right amount of twists and turns.
5 stars.
Quote of the book:
“I’m pansexual, but I favour relationships with women”
November 3, 2018
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4 Stars
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, The Road Ahead. This book continues with the two protagonists, the photographer Rebecca and Arabella, the top executive of a PR company in England. I think it is about a year and a half later and Rebecca asks Arabella to take a vacation with her to visit her friend Jenn in New Orleans, Louisiana (NOLA). Rebecca has been patient, as she waits for Arabella to overcome her fear and to decide if she wants to be more than friends.
This is 2 love stories in one but similar in nature. In addition of Rebecca and Arabella, there is Rebecca's friend, Jenn and Kathryn. Jenn is a unique individual. She is kind and friendly, has number of various part time jobs, a true "Jill of all Trades" who works hard to be good at each of her jobs, but she is still looking for a real relationship and perhaps has lost hope? Because of her kindness, in the past she's fallen for the wrong people to having people taking advantage of her. She first spots Kathryn while she is working her bartender job on Bourbon St. Kathryn is complaining loudly as her sister literally dumps her off, forcing Kathryn to take a vacation. Kathryn is angry, posh, straight and instantly hates New Orleans. Jenn and Kathryn keep running into each other and Jenn tries to show Kathryn why she loves NOLA.
I liked this book, but Radley throws in this massive twist that threw me for a loop. I hated it at first, but eventually I got over it. Radley knows how to write very readable stories with humor and likable characters. You probably don't have to read book #1 first, but I highly recommend, The Road Ahead.
If there is one, I wonder what the next book in the series will be? I'd love to read more about Echo.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, The Road Ahead. This book continues with the two protagonists, the photographer Rebecca and Arabella, the top executive of a PR company in England. I think it is about a year and a half later and Rebecca asks Arabella to take a vacation with her to visit her friend Jenn in New Orleans, Louisiana (NOLA). Rebecca has been patient, as she waits for Arabella to overcome her fear and to decide if she wants to be more than friends.
This is 2 love stories in one but similar in nature. In addition of Rebecca and Arabella, there is Rebecca's friend, Jenn and Kathryn. Jenn is a unique individual. She is kind and friendly, has number of various part time jobs, a true "Jill of all Trades" who works hard to be good at each of her jobs, but she is still looking for a real relationship and perhaps has lost hope? Because of her kindness, in the past she's fallen for the wrong people to having people taking advantage of her. She first spots Kathryn while she is working her bartender job on Bourbon St. Kathryn is complaining loudly as her sister literally dumps her off, forcing Kathryn to take a vacation. Kathryn is angry, posh, straight and instantly hates New Orleans. Jenn and Kathryn keep running into each other and Jenn tries to show Kathryn why she loves NOLA.
I liked this book, but Radley throws in this massive twist that threw me for a loop. I hated it at first, but eventually I got over it. Radley knows how to write very readable stories with humor and likable characters. You probably don't have to read book #1 first, but I highly recommend, The Road Ahead.
If there is one, I wonder what the next book in the series will be? I'd love to read more about Echo.
May 30, 2021
Yet again Radley didnt disappoint. I loved the fact we had 2 sets of main characters with the right amount of angst and humour. Her detailed description of New Orleans has made me want to visit.
It ended far too quickly but I'm really hoping book 3 with be along very soon
It ended far too quickly but I'm really hoping book 3 with be along very soon
October 15, 2018
Lots of humor and fun characters and situations. Just what readers have come to expect from the author.
October 28, 2018
This is such a sweet story! A.E. Radley is certainly one of my favorite authors. I read everything she publishes... and have never been disappointed.
July 15, 2022
Another cute romance. Really like this setting in New Orleans and mc Jenn was a special person. The attraction between her and Kathyrn was fun to watch develop. And we get to see more of Rebecca and Arabella.
Several side characters also added to the story and gave it depth. Mae Mae was super fun.
Several side characters also added to the story and gave it depth. Mae Mae was super fun.
June 30, 2022
A nice sequel, to The Road Ahead.
This time we're in New Orleans as our previous couple Arabella and Rebecca are still trying to navigate what they are to each other. A fair bit of emotional and relationship angst and drama throughout - but at least there was discussion at its core.
We are also introduced to a new potential couple, in Jenn who is working several jobs throughout New Orleans, and Kathryn the tight laced woman with a lot haunting her, especially her possible new found sexuality, and attraction to Jenn.
There was a lot of amusing situations and heaps of details about New Orleans. Some great side characters, and just overall a story that kept me reading, and needing to know what happened next. What more do we want from our reads?
This time we're in New Orleans as our previous couple Arabella and Rebecca are still trying to navigate what they are to each other. A fair bit of emotional and relationship angst and drama throughout - but at least there was discussion at its core.
We are also introduced to a new potential couple, in Jenn who is working several jobs throughout New Orleans, and Kathryn the tight laced woman with a lot haunting her, especially her possible new found sexuality, and attraction to Jenn.
There was a lot of amusing situations and heaps of details about New Orleans. Some great side characters, and just overall a story that kept me reading, and needing to know what happened next. What more do we want from our reads?
October 27, 2018
Absolutely loved the book. This really was a heartwarming read, that oozes just that.... all the goodness.
Rebecca and Arabella story continues in New Orleans (after a planned trip to Scotland went wayward) to visit Rebecca’s friend, Jenn. I liked the story of Kathryn and Jenn - which was of the more interesting one in this book. Weren’t expecting the twist there but all good story will always have you engaged. No different here.
Would really love a continuation of where the 2nd book left us....
4.25 ⭐️
Rebecca and Arabella story continues in New Orleans (after a planned trip to Scotland went wayward) to visit Rebecca’s friend, Jenn. I liked the story of Kathryn and Jenn - which was of the more interesting one in this book. Weren’t expecting the twist there but all good story will always have you engaged. No different here.
Would really love a continuation of where the 2nd book left us....
4.25 ⭐️
October 18, 2018
Another well-written book by A.E. Radly. Quite enjoyable for the most part. I did like the first book a little bit more and felt connected to the characters more. But this was still a great read. Kathryn and Jenn were good characters to get to know. A little bit quick of an ending so hoping for more books in this series.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
October 18, 2018
So another A. E. Radley book and I loved it!!!!
They just get better and better and The Big Uneasy was no exception.
With the return of Arabella and Rebecca I was already excited, and their development in this story was so amazing. Throw in Jenn and Kathryn and I was thoroughly enjoying myself.
Jenn is amazing and if you read this book you will find out why! (no spoilers) she brings a unique light-heartedness and element of surprise to this wonder story. It is Kathryn who really makes it for me though, with her awkwardness and questioning yet stubborn nature. She is the one who really makes this such a fun and exciting read.
You have four women all learning and coming to terms with different things to make one story explode from the pages, capture the reader and win them over with their infectious unique personalities, and there is something about each one of them you can empathise or sympathise with.
A. E. Radley has this spectacular talent for bringing characters to you that you just can’t help fall in love with for one reason or another, and the fun doesn’t stop with the main characters. This extends even to the sundry characters that add to the story.
I just loved reading this story, learning new things about old familiar characters and the new! Such a fun setting in New Orleans too!
I highly recommend this book, and if you haven’t read The Road Ahead (although you don’t have to as The Big Uneasy can be read standalone) it’s a great introduction to bring you up to speed on Arabella and Rebecca.
Just Brilliant and I look forward to more adventures in this series, hopefully with old familiar faces, and some more new! Great book!!!
They just get better and better and The Big Uneasy was no exception.
With the return of Arabella and Rebecca I was already excited, and their development in this story was so amazing. Throw in Jenn and Kathryn and I was thoroughly enjoying myself.
Jenn is amazing and if you read this book you will find out why! (no spoilers) she brings a unique light-heartedness and element of surprise to this wonder story. It is Kathryn who really makes it for me though, with her awkwardness and questioning yet stubborn nature. She is the one who really makes this such a fun and exciting read.
You have four women all learning and coming to terms with different things to make one story explode from the pages, capture the reader and win them over with their infectious unique personalities, and there is something about each one of them you can empathise or sympathise with.
A. E. Radley has this spectacular talent for bringing characters to you that you just can’t help fall in love with for one reason or another, and the fun doesn’t stop with the main characters. This extends even to the sundry characters that add to the story.
I just loved reading this story, learning new things about old familiar characters and the new! Such a fun setting in New Orleans too!
I highly recommend this book, and if you haven’t read The Road Ahead (although you don’t have to as The Big Uneasy can be read standalone) it’s a great introduction to bring you up to speed on Arabella and Rebecca.
Just Brilliant and I look forward to more adventures in this series, hopefully with old familiar faces, and some more new! Great book!!!
October 29, 2018
I wasn't planning to read this book, but then I was bored and I truly love this author so I said to myself I was going to try but wasn't going to force myself to finish it (was fully intending to marked as "do not finished"). And bam! It wasn't about Arabella, Rebecca and their "relationship", I mean, it was there, but I still coudn't care less about them, so it was inconsecuential to me. The real protagonists where Jenn and Kathryn, and it was THE BIG UNEASY FANFIC! Edited and modifed but it was one of my favorite fanfics ever, and I was thrilled!
The book is about how finally the couple of the first book gets to be a couple, AND, about a new set of MC's (Jenn and Kathryn) and the conflicts that are generated because of preconceived family and society ideas about your behavior, your career, your life, and the damage they cause to You and Your life if you let them (basically the first book premise but made right).
I was going to rate it 5 stars despite Arabella and Rebecca, but in the end even though I love the fanfic I was expecting something different but it was the same story, different names (save for the Arabella and Rebecca inserts).
The book is about how finally the couple of the first book gets to be a couple, AND, about a new set of MC's (Jenn and Kathryn) and the conflicts that are generated because of preconceived family and society ideas about your behavior, your career, your life, and the damage they cause to You and Your life if you let them (basically the first book premise but made right).
I was going to rate it 5 stars despite Arabella and Rebecca, but in the end even though I love the fanfic I was expecting something different but it was the same story, different names (save for the Arabella and Rebecca inserts).
December 1, 2018
Four women. Two story lines. Several subplots. This read follows Arabella and Rebecca taking a holiday together. Rebecca travels to New Orleans to visit her friend Jenn with her "travel companion", Arabella. Rebecca is ready to take their "relationship" to the next level. Arabella is unsure if she is ready or ever will be ready for a relationship, let alone the next level. Kathryn and Jenn are at the center of this read with some similarity in their relationship to Arabella and Rebecca, i.e., age, money, clothing, and uncertainty to name a few. What I enjoy most about this series is the romance. You can feel it oozing like an old romance movie such as "An Affair to Remember". You know there is a spark between Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant with the looks and subtle touches. Also, the setting provides a wow factor.
November 1, 2018
I really enjoy this series and the other reviews are right in saying that one should read book 1 first. New Orleans was shown in its full glory and uniqueness. A well written story with some romance, a bit of angst, and a few surprises along the way. I am looking forward to more stories in this series.
August 6, 2022
I love this series. I was a little hesitant that there are two new characters, Jenn and Kathryn in the sequel, but you’d love them easily!
October 19, 2018
I loved 'Around the World.' This one was even better.
"She's an Atheist." Genuine laugh out loud moment.
"She's an Atheist." Genuine laugh out loud moment.
November 14, 2019
This book is a Part Two and Works as a Stand Alone Too
Rebecca and Arabella are back in a new adventure. This time they are in New Orleans so Rebecca can meet up with her old friend Jenn. Arabella is trying to figure out what she wants as far as Rebecca is concerned and Rebecca is doing her best to give Arabella the space she asked for. Meanwhile, Jenn has met a woman herself that is causing her all sorts of trouble too….
This is a wonderful story. I loved being reunited with Rebecca and Arabella! Meeting Jenn and Kathryn was a big bonus! They are every bit as engaging as Rebecca and Arabella and their story is just as interesting. They all had a lot to get through and they all rose to meet their challenges. The book was a delight and so very good! I loved all these women and couldn’t put the book down. It was fascinating, the relationships, the adventure, the details and the descriptions, all of it wonderful. I love the way Ms Radley writes and this story is just another reason to adore her!
Rebecca and Arabella are back in a new adventure. This time they are in New Orleans so Rebecca can meet up with her old friend Jenn. Arabella is trying to figure out what she wants as far as Rebecca is concerned and Rebecca is doing her best to give Arabella the space she asked for. Meanwhile, Jenn has met a woman herself that is causing her all sorts of trouble too….
This is a wonderful story. I loved being reunited with Rebecca and Arabella! Meeting Jenn and Kathryn was a big bonus! They are every bit as engaging as Rebecca and Arabella and their story is just as interesting. They all had a lot to get through and they all rose to meet their challenges. The book was a delight and so very good! I loved all these women and couldn’t put the book down. It was fascinating, the relationships, the adventure, the details and the descriptions, all of it wonderful. I love the way Ms Radley writes and this story is just another reason to adore her!
June 11, 2020
Despite great use of the setting and some fun moments, the formula was a bit too repetitive for me after the first book to get into this one. The new couple are too similar to the old couple and a little on the bland side. Jenn is way too perfect throughout, and Kathryn was a little exhausting but nothing too bad... until the the big reveal at the end. Whoo boy. Spoiler's below.
October 8, 2018
Fun read with an abrupt ending (3.5 stars)
The Big Uneasy picks up not long after the end of The Road Ahead: time has passed and some things have changed but others have not. There is a bit of a recap of The Road Ahead given in The Big Uneasy but it's not a substitute for reading both books in sequence to know everything that's happened along their journey, so to speak; fans of the first book will be thrilled to see the return of Rebecca and Arabella here while welcoming new faces to their latest travel adventure. I had read The Road Ahead when it was released but did not remember much about it so had to look back to see which characters were there and which were new; a minor detail though as there is more than one storyline involving romance and drama in The Big Uneasy and plenty of entertaining characters to populate the story.
The story is set in New Orleans and the city is heavily featured in its glory and darkness, the venues mentioned in the book may inspire some readers to go and see the diverse sights with their own eyes. The humor in The Big Uneasy is great - funny, sharp, dry wit aplenty - with several characters making me laugh frequently with their quips and sarcasm. Conversations between the characters cover the gamut of topics including navigating relationships at their different phases, the importance of communication, the drawbacks and dangers of making assumptions, sexuality, labels, body image, and expectations among others. One main character is over forty and has some ageist assumptions about herself and how others might view her; it's part of the diversity in the cast of characters I appreciated along with one who identifies as pansexual and another struggling with labels. The supporting characters are stellar and put to good use adding humor and drama to the story; they're each distinct with their quirks and skill sets.
There are some surprises in the plot, some to be expected and others that seemed to come out of nowhere, but the ending felt rushed and abrupt which was a letdown after so much great reading beforehand. Ending aside, it's a fun read to sink into over a few evenings or a weekend.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Big Uneasy picks up not long after the end of The Road Ahead: time has passed and some things have changed but others have not. There is a bit of a recap of The Road Ahead given in The Big Uneasy but it's not a substitute for reading both books in sequence to know everything that's happened along their journey, so to speak; fans of the first book will be thrilled to see the return of Rebecca and Arabella here while welcoming new faces to their latest travel adventure. I had read The Road Ahead when it was released but did not remember much about it so had to look back to see which characters were there and which were new; a minor detail though as there is more than one storyline involving romance and drama in The Big Uneasy and plenty of entertaining characters to populate the story.
The story is set in New Orleans and the city is heavily featured in its glory and darkness, the venues mentioned in the book may inspire some readers to go and see the diverse sights with their own eyes. The humor in The Big Uneasy is great - funny, sharp, dry wit aplenty - with several characters making me laugh frequently with their quips and sarcasm. Conversations between the characters cover the gamut of topics including navigating relationships at their different phases, the importance of communication, the drawbacks and dangers of making assumptions, sexuality, labels, body image, and expectations among others. One main character is over forty and has some ageist assumptions about herself and how others might view her; it's part of the diversity in the cast of characters I appreciated along with one who identifies as pansexual and another struggling with labels. The supporting characters are stellar and put to good use adding humor and drama to the story; they're each distinct with their quirks and skill sets.
There are some surprises in the plot, some to be expected and others that seemed to come out of nowhere, but the ending felt rushed and abrupt which was a letdown after so much great reading beforehand. Ending aside, it's a fun read to sink into over a few evenings or a weekend.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2021
Didn't I review this already? Apparently not. Let's see what I can remember. I know I like this one but didnt't love it. And even though I've given the sequel the same rating, I did prefer the first book.
The relationship between Arabella and Rebecca is developing, and things are complicated. That much I found realistic, because it's not easy to find out you're attracted to a) a woman, b) a significantly younger woman, and c) a significantly younger woman that's very different from yourself in personality, status, money etc.
However... I don't know. I think I got annoyed with Arabella, because yes, it's all complicated, but she could have made it a lot easier. and I was annoyed by Rebecca because... well, she simply put up with everything and I thought Arabella could have benefitted from a kick in the pants. But hey, that's just me, I'm impatient with endless back-and-forth.
Then there's a second couple. A woman in New Orleans against her will (how does a grown woman end up being somewhere she doesn't want to be??) meets a New Orleans enthusiast. And it's the usual lesfic fare: instant attraction, first denied, then acknowledged, then eventually acted-upon. And then there's a big surprise, drama, and the couple ends up super coupley. And there's one of my least favorite tropes, the I don't like that books give the impression that it's all super easy if only there's love.
Also, it felt like two separate stories, thinly connected to make it into one book. Both stories would have worked better, I think, as two novellas.
So, up to here, it would actually be only 2 stars. But I'm adding another one because the New Orleans woman has, oh, 15-20 part-time jobs in the tourist industry. Which, of course, is ludicrous, but I think it was meant to be, so I rolled with it and thought it was fun. It was definitely perfect to portray everything New Orleans has to offer visitors. And that's where the book shines- if you want to go to New Orleans, or if you want to pretend you're there, and if you like lesfic, then this is the book for you. I've never been interested in New Orleans and even I enjoyed the descriptions of this city. So this might be the weirdest star to give a book ("I liked the city where it's set"), but there it is.
The relationship between Arabella and Rebecca is developing, and things are complicated. That much I found realistic, because it's not easy to find out you're attracted to a) a woman, b) a significantly younger woman, and c) a significantly younger woman that's very different from yourself in personality, status, money etc.
However... I don't know. I think I got annoyed with Arabella, because yes, it's all complicated, but she could have made it a lot easier. and I was annoyed by Rebecca because... well, she simply put up with everything and I thought Arabella could have benefitted from a kick in the pants. But hey, that's just me, I'm impatient with endless back-and-forth.
Then there's a second couple. A woman in New Orleans against her will (how does a grown woman end up being somewhere she doesn't want to be??) meets a New Orleans enthusiast. And it's the usual lesfic fare: instant attraction, first denied, then acknowledged, then eventually acted-upon. And then there's a big surprise, drama, and the couple ends up super coupley. And there's one of my least favorite tropes, the I don't like that books give the impression that it's all super easy if only there's love.
Also, it felt like two separate stories, thinly connected to make it into one book. Both stories would have worked better, I think, as two novellas.
So, up to here, it would actually be only 2 stars. But I'm adding another one because the New Orleans woman has, oh, 15-20 part-time jobs in the tourist industry. Which, of course, is ludicrous, but I think it was meant to be, so I rolled with it and thought it was fun. It was definitely perfect to portray everything New Orleans has to offer visitors. And that's where the book shines- if you want to go to New Orleans, or if you want to pretend you're there, and if you like lesfic, then this is the book for you. I've never been interested in New Orleans and even I enjoyed the descriptions of this city. So this might be the weirdest star to give a book ("I liked the city where it's set"), but there it is.
October 5, 2019
4.5* An excellent read on the whole. I liked book one better I have to say, and there were a couple of things that were not so sharp about how this book came across to me, but still, this is an excellent read.
The start took me back because we don't start with the characters from book one. A minor point and as the story progresses the whole thing slides together quite nicely.
I rather like the clean romance, but I would have liked a little more. I'd still like to fade to grey, but at least get them to the point where we have to fade, rather than assuming that it probably happened. Or might not have. Is there a book three? And well they get it on down and dirty?
The writing is, on the whole good. An overuse of the progressive form, which is my personal irritant. But on the whole, the writing is consistent, clean, and reliable. I like Radley, and she is one of the very few romance writers I will read.
I would recommend this.
The start took me back because we don't start with the characters from book one. A minor point and as the story progresses the whole thing slides together quite nicely.
I rather like the clean romance, but I would have liked a little more. I'd still like to fade to grey, but at least get them to the point where we have to fade, rather than assuming that it probably happened. Or might not have. Is there a book three? And well they get it on down and dirty?
The writing is, on the whole good. An overuse of the progressive form, which is my personal irritant. But on the whole, the writing is consistent, clean, and reliable. I like Radley, and she is one of the very few romance writers I will read.
I would recommend this.
December 6, 2024
2.75⭐
I loved the first book but this sadly wasn't the sequel I was hoping for.
I didn't care about Jenn and Kathryn at all and I honestly don't understand why they're part of this book.
They could have just had their own book.
After a while I honestly just started skipping or skimming their chapters.
I do still like Rebecca and Arabella but there was just way too little of them.
The ending was weird and I felt like we didn't really get a good conclusion.
I just really can't understand why the author would choose to continue their story like this.
There could have been sooo many better ways and I'm really disappointed.
I loved the first book but this sadly wasn't the sequel I was hoping for.
I didn't care about Jenn and Kathryn at all and I honestly don't understand why they're part of this book.
They could have just had their own book.
After a while I honestly just started skipping or skimming their chapters.
I do still like Rebecca and Arabella but there was just way too little of them.
The ending was weird and I felt like we didn't really get a good conclusion.
I just really can't understand why the author would choose to continue their story like this.
There could have been sooo many better ways and I'm really disappointed.
October 19, 2018
A romance with a good dose of humour and a small dose of angst. I am a fan of A.E Radley’s humour and the wacky situations she gets her characters into, so much fun to read. Arabella and a Rebecca’s love continues to grow and then we meet Jenn and Kathryn and sparks fly, all set in New Orleans, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope we get a continuation of these 2 romances.
November 7, 2018
I’ve been looking forward to revisiting the world of Arabella and Rebecca; this book perhaps not quite as strong as the first, but wonderful all the same! The introduction of the fabulous Jenn and Kathryn is a real treat. If you enjoyed the first in the series, you will love this. If you haven’t, read it now!
I was given an ARC by the author for an honest review.
I was given an ARC by the author for an honest review.
June 13, 2019
Nice quick read but a little angsty for my taste. It sure rekindled my interest in New Orleans though.
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