One Up

Up #4

by Robin Leaf

*Kaelyn*
The media still paints me as KaeKae, the party girl, but I’m determined to change that image. On my way to New Orleans with a sound business idea, I will try one last time to impress my hotel-mogul father. I never expect to meet the perfect guy on the plane, and bonus, he doesn’t know who I am. Not only is he stunningly handsome, but he’s smart, funny, successful, and he gets all my obscure references. Oh, and he smells good, too.
He also just happens to be on his way home to propose to his girlfriend.
Ugh. Just my luck.

*Brody*
God, this woman… why did I meet her today of all days? There’s something so right about her. However, my grandmother’s ring is in my pocket, and I’ve made an elaborate plan to give it to another. I’m forced to let her go so I can stick to the plan.
What do they say about the best laid plans?
Awry? Try complete chaos.
If I find her again, I won’t let her go.
If only I knew who she was.

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 5, 2018

About the author

Robin Leaf lives in Texas with her husband and four kids (three human and one furry). When she’s not reading romance novel a day, she can be found watching Supernatural (and drooling over both Dean and Sam equally), playing ball with her furry child, or cleaning up dog hair.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/robinleafaut...

Reviews

[Mette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this author from the beginning, but dang she just upped her game.

Two pages in and I was captivated.
Kaelyn and Brody.... Big effing swoon. The connection between the two was so powerful, you made an instant believer og me.

This story is funny. It is beautiful. It's a revisit with a bunch of people I love.
The flow and craftsmanship is stunning and makes this book impossible to put down.

Don't ever stop writing, please!

[Nadine A · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

One Up is the fourth installment in the (Up series). This story is about Kaelyn and Brody who we’ve met briefly before in Batter Up ( I loved that book)

Brody and Kaelyn first meet on a plane, they start up an easy conversation, find out they have so much in common and are very attracted to each other.
Sadly, Brody isn’t exactly single, so they part ways knowing they’ve both just met someone incredible who they will most likely never see again.
But fate just might have other plans for this duo...

The author had me hooked from the very first page. Both Kae and Brody were extremely likable and endearing. I loved all their quirks and how they just clicked.
Their banter and bond was so natural, I was instantly rooting for them to be together.

“This woman… she fucking rocks my world and lights my universe.”

They sure do go through some ups and downs and few misunderstandings in between to get to their HEA but it made this story that much more sweeter.

“Just so you know, I was yours on the day we met. You took my heart with you that day, Brody Heroux.  And I don’t want it back.”

This book was funny and sexy and I just couldn’t put it down.
If you enjoy steamy romantic comedies, give this one a try!

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own**

[Johanna Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seriously hot cover alert.... this book had everything. Brody and Kae were amazing main characters in this hot romance. My first read by this author and definitely not my last. I laughed...I swooned... and now I have an amazing book hangover. What would you do if a guy checked off all those right for you boxes on your checklist but never called after? Five star book!

What did I like? I liked the flow of the book, author takes us through meeting Brody, to a hot fling, and through the aftermath with absolutely no whiplash. The angst isn’t over the top, and it’s enough to keep you captivated until the end. I just smiled the whole book. Just a really enjoyable romance, I’d really like to go back and read the whole series.

Would I buy or recommend? Yes, I’m new to this author but this book was amazeballs. Fans of Lori Foster or Jill Shalvis would love this romance. I seriously devoured it. Just an overall great book with a beautiful HEA!

Thoughts for the author? Amazing job on this five star book. I started reading without even really looking at the blurb and it seriously captivated me. I can’t wait to see what you do next!

[Jacquie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One Up is the fourth book in the Up series and, in my opinion, the BEST of the bunch (so far!) I ADORED Nate and Etta in Batter Up, but there's just something about this one that spoke to my heart! Brody captured my heart right from the get-go and Kaelyn is the PERFECT foil for him (if it can't be ME! 😋)

From the start, Brody and Kae's chemistry is INSANE!!!! The kind of attraction that SHOULDN'T be ignored....but, circumstances being what they are, the WHY's are understandable. BUT when two people are FATED to be together, love WILL find a way! And OH BOY, does lady Fate have the time of her life with these two! ALLLLLL I'm gonna say is DOUCHE-BAG friends get off EASY, sometimes!

This story is filled with ALL the feels that I love about romance! The SWOON factor is off-the-charts, the love scenes are panty-melting, the angst isn't toooooo bad but it's definitely there...and of course, the HEA made my soul happy!

I ABSOLUTELY loved this book, couldn't put it down and would HIGHLY recommend it!!! Just remember....BRODY IS MINE!!!

[Rebel O'Dey · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intelligent New Orleans gentleman meets a cheeky social media celebrity on a plane. The timing is off, but turbulence, fate, and maybe a little voodoo toss the pair together over and over. Robin spins the tale in a motion that intricately winds you into the lives of her characters. It's subtle at first, a cozy rom-com sucks you in before a tiny slap of drama, frustration, hot sexy times, and then BAM you're swooning and just waiting to see how it will all turn into a happily ever after. I highly recommend it as a one-click must read (as are the other books characteristically Robin Leaf).

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Robin Leaf's newest release and what can I say except you have to read this story. The humor and feel good feelings in this story had me devouring it in an evening. This was one that just had it all and I didn't want to put it down. Technically this is the fourth book in her Up series, but you can read this as your first book. Robin has a fantastic way of writing these stories as a standalone, but weaving each one together so they overlap and interconnect. By doing this, we get to see different points of view of some major events throughout the series. Saying that you won't be lost though if you don't read them in order.

Kaelyn is a young girl in her twenties. Her main focus in life, don't get publically humiliated... again, and have her father's approval. Her journey in this story leads her to be true and honest with herself. Somewhere along the way love tries to sneak its way in, only Kaelyn doesn't want it. From the first moment the plane takes off, until the final pages of the book, we really see the person Kaelyn is and how much she cares about her family. She has a huge heart and is genuinly kind. Her last name, past, and father's business lead to a lot of people assuming things about her. Robin wrote such a thick skinned, but completely sweet character in Kaelyn. She isn't jaded even when people lash out to her. 

Brody has this huge heart, just as big as Kaelyn's, and perfect plan. He knows that the rest of his life is completely planned out. He can picture it all until the beautiful siren opens her mouth on the plane and GETS him. He's never had such an instant connection and she is the perfect girl for him... except he's taken. When goodbye feels like so much more, he resignes himself that the beauty will stay a mystery. Brody sprials out of control after that day and all he can think about is the woman who he wants as his. I really enjoyed how Brody was written. His actions, reactions, and just comments had me laughing as well as feeling for the guy. Mostly it was laughing. There were some moments where I wanted to kick him where it counts as he acted like a complete jerk. 

There were some new characters in this story that didn't play a huge role, but added to the wellroundedness of the tale. The humor, snark, wit, heart, and everything in between kept me drawn into the pages seeking the resolution. All of our old favorites make an appearance and have you soaking up the interactions. I loved seeing the bonds continue to grow and strengthen especially as Kaelyn went on her journey. Her bother and she grew in this story and I enjoyed their relationship that they have. Kaelyn's mother is a HOOT! I loved how Robin wrote that character. She is a great rock for Kaelyn when things go sideways.

This story was an enjoyable read. It wasn't heavy or full of drama that seemed over the top. It had a lot of humor and issues for each of the main characters to resolve. The banter back and forth is some of the best I've read. Especially that airplane scene. Robin made Brody's midlife crisis feel believable. The plot and arc of the story was done very well. There was one point that I was left hanging for a couple of chapters which had me wondering what would happen, but Robin fit it in the story exactly where it should be. 

I give this story five flying high pointe shoes. It had it all for me, humor, heart, overcoming life issues, and a fun resolution. I can't wait to see what Robin writes next and definitely recommend this book to readers and followers. 

[I Read What I Want · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let’s talk about finishing a book. Finishing a book and then not being able to find the words to say to leave a proper review that does said book justice. Because that is where I have been for a few days with this one. I need more than five stars. And even then I’m not sure it would be enough!
This book doesn’t have a meet cute. I mean...I’d label it a meet hot. It’s a new thing, and I’m giving the author all credits to it. From the very beginning sparks are flying, heat is present, the tingles are there, and the UST is out of control. For the characters and for you, the reader. It seriously starts with a bang and then every single word, sentence, and paragraph after just amps the feels even more. I laughed out loud more than once with the witty banter and clever way the author weaves this tale. I felt the tells of the sniffles coming on several occasions. I had the moments of oh my god come on!!!! There was no she did nots and I can’t believe he did thats. I wanted to love and cuddle the characters at times and other times force them in a room to have hot make up you know what. They ties the author created throughout the story left me reeling in the best possible way.
It’s hilarious, cleverly written, beautifully told, and seriously a perfect romantic comedy. I wanted to read it again as soon as I finished it.
You will love it. All of it. Just know that Brody is spoken for. I licked him so he’s mine.
Kel
Kel and Mel Tell Book Blog

[Brenda Romconfan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robin Leaf writes those quirky snappy romances that romcom fans would really enjoy. The basic plot for this one is two people different as can be cross pass in a chance encounter then have their lives tangled up and entwined forever.

Fate in this story is definitely a third character from the moment Brody meets Kaelyn on the plane, to him seeing her again at the bar and the wedding. A mysterious force was gently nudging the characters in the right direction.

Why I liked this book:

I loved and appreciated is the fact that Robin Leaf does not demonize Brody's x-girlfriend. I don't want to give too much away but I found myself empathetic to her (which rarely happens with x's in a book).

This book is written in duel points of view. This is done very well since I really felt like I was inside the head and emotions of both main characters.

The protagonists are very likable; Brody is endearing, protective, sexy, but can be hard headed at times while Kaelyn is sassy, smart, and sees Brody for who he truly is.

All the side characters are fun and the dialogue is very dynamic and engaging.

Robin Leaf this was truly a lovely one to read keep them coming :)

[Madonna Blackburn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robin Leaf's 4th book, and although I will say that not necessarily my favourite, it is undoubtedly her best.
In One Up, Robin has expanded her writing style and given us a more humorous reading experience along with her usual drama filled (although admittedly less than in previous books) storyline.
This time around we have Kaelyn and Brody entertaining our leisure hours and I found them highly enjoyable.
New Orleans is the backdrop for most of this book and as a non-American, I had a fabulous adventure being taken to some of those well known touristy spots as the story unfolded. I loved the way the author wove these moments into the lives of our couple.
Kaelyn and Brody go through quite a tumultuous progression to their HEA. But their connection cannot be denied and you certainly feel their passion and spirit as you read.
Once again this author gives us some wonderfully romantic, emotionally charged moments and she certainly did not wimp out on the lust-filled intensity of the love scenes...scorching stuff I tell you.
Overall, a great read that has a bit of everything that us readers like to be entertained with.

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am still chuckling after this read. Normally all the back and forth and mis-communication makes me dizzy but this author had it on point. These two were on a path to awesomeness from the moment they met and what a meeting it was. Gun shy from bad press and a bad rep she hadn't earned Kae is a little skittish but she forgets it all when she meets "airplane guy". Brody is a good guy even being a nerd gamer he is still a charmer and makes his mother proud with his actions and manners. But when he meets "airplane girl" and she stays on his mind when he gets floored by his welcome home he's kicking himself for not getting her details. This turns out to be a great book and so much fun I didn't stop reading until I got to the end. This author has quickly placed herself smack dab in my heart. Her characters are fun, brooding, sexy, independent, intelligent and emotional. She has a way and style that draws you in and keeps you there until she is done weaving her web. This was a great read where her characters grew together and learned from their mistakes but this time it didn't take 10 years.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

One Up is book #4 in Robin Leaf's Up Series and it was awemazing!! I loved this book, it pulled me in from the beginning, and didn't let go until the very end, by the way...I didn't want this book to end!! Kaelyn and Brody meet on an airplane and the chemistry between them is off the charts. They don't exchange names, or phone numbers mainly because of what Brody tells her he has planned. So they go their seperate ways, thinking they will never see each other again, only the universe has different plans for these two...They know some of the same people, so you know at some point they are going to cross paths. But what happens when they do? You are just going to have to read it to find out!! I will for sure recommend this book, and all of Robin's books, and I plan to read these books again, that's how much I enjoyed each and every Robin Leaf book!! Thank you so much Robin for allowing me the awesome opportunity to read your books early, and just thank you for sharing your amazing stories, and characters with us, I can not wait to see what you come up with next <3<3

[Brandie Breaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before, but it deserves to be said again. Robin's books just get better with each new release. This story is by far my favorite of her four books. Brody is just AHmazing. It's so hard not to fall for a good ol' Cajun boy...I know from experience. I absolutely loved everything about this story. Brody and Kaelyn's instant chemistry was evident from the beginning. Fate surely wanted these two together. I loved all of their accidental meetings and all of their connections. The Voodoo was all for these two getting together.

I loved all of the secondary characters...especially considering we have met most of them before. The connections between the characters in the Up Series is just perfect-not so much that you feel lost if you haven't read the others but enough to make you want to read all of the stories.

This is another hit out of the park for Robin Leaf. I love everything she's written and cannot wait for more to be released.

[Heather Navarre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book by Robin Leaf.

Brody and Kaelyn are a fun couple, there is chemistry right off the bat. I did not want to put it down and I really didn't. I read as long as I could even skipping some sleep. I read it in 24 hours.

It is not often that a book can make me smile, laugh, gasp, cry and everything else in between. This book did.

Brody sure learns a lot through this book as does Kaelyn, it is always great when couples have something to learn and they change and grow.

[Nikkita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has continued to amaze me, soon as I think I had a favorite I read the next and it becomes my new favorite. Brody and KaeKae are the most swoon worthy couple, like seriously i couldn't get enough of these two. The ending is the most epic of endings, huge swoon moment. I can't say it enough, you won't regret reading this series!

[Robin Leaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Available November 5!!!

[Gabriella Scavella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am one who roots for the underdog. I am also a self proclaimed book nerd. So I loved seeing the stereotypical gamer shown in positive light. The 'nerd' becomes a self made man using his intelligence and straight laced morals. He finds the love of his life but bad timing, miscommunication, and the fates make the couple jump through hoops to get to their happily ever after.

The object of his desire is trying to please an unpleasant father who is never satisfied with her accomplishments. In the turbulent waters of trying to achieve that goal she made mistakes, grew up, became a self-made woman, strong enough to partner with any self-made man.

Together they work hard and love harder. I can't wait the read the others in the series.

[Sarah Kirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Brody, Brody, Brody. Hello new book boyfriend! Brody is beyond thoughtful, caring, sweet, and PERFECT. He deserves the best woman and Kaelyn is just that. This book gives you those goosebumps that only come from feeling date happening around you, except these two characters are their own worst enemies and keep missing the signals. Kaelyn has some issues from her awful father and ex so she doesn't always see the good things in front of her out of fear. Brody has been totally screwed over in the past too. The whole book leaves you in the edge of your seat almost screaming at the characters on the page to get their s$#% together. You'll love this book. I promise!

[Lara Luck · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved It

I loved this book. So well written and thoroughly entertaining. You will love the bumpy ride of Kaelyn and Brody’s story. I highly recommend this book.