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Love in London #2
[Not] The One
Three reasons why rebound s-e-x with my hot neighbour is a very bad idea.
1. My life is already complicated enough
2. He knows I wear Batman undies (please don’t ask)
3. He’s older, sophisticated and so hot he makes me go weak at the knees
I know that’s more than three. But it still didn’t stop me.
On paper, we’re the worst kind of match.
He’s rich.
I’m . . . not. My second job is pet sitting!
He says we’re friends.
I say barely, but I do love those benefits . . .
The man rocks my world.
But he’s so not the one.
Which is unfortunate,
Because he’s also the one who got me pregnant.
Disclaimer: This is not (just) a story about accidental pregnancy. It’s a story about accidental love.
1. My life is already complicated enough
2. He knows I wear Batman undies (please don’t ask)
3. He’s older, sophisticated and so hot he makes me go weak at the knees
I know that’s more than three. But it still didn’t stop me.
On paper, we’re the worst kind of match.
He’s rich.
I’m . . . not. My second job is pet sitting!
He says we’re friends.
I say barely, but I do love those benefits . . .
The man rocks my world.
But he’s so not the one.
Which is unfortunate,
Because he’s also the one who got me pregnant.
Disclaimer: This is not (just) a story about accidental pregnancy. It’s a story about accidental love.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2019
2437 people are currently reading
2349 people want to read
About the author
Donna Alam
44 books2,116 followersDonna Alam is a #7 Amazon Kindle store and USA Today bestseller. A writer of love stories with heart, humour, and heat, she aspires to sprinkle a little joy into the lives of her readers. When not bashing away at her keyboard, she can often be found hiding from her responsibilities with a book in her hand and a mop of a dog at her feet.
Hear all the news by joining her newsletter below or pop in and say hello in her private reader group, Donna Alam's Lambs.
Lambs - https://bit.ly/DALambs
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Hear all the news by joining her newsletter below or pop in and say hello in her private reader group, Donna Alam's Lambs.
Lambs - https://bit.ly/DALambs
Donna's Newsletter - https://subscribepage.com/e6z5p6
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
October 3, 2019
A Most Deliciously Delightful Storyline
Author, Donna Alam is a gifted writer of romance stories. She gives her characters wonderful, unique witty dialogue and inner voices. In this story Miranda and James, aka Harry meet when she gets stuck in his father’s doggy door. From then on they don’t know what to do with each other except to have sex. That activity, they are very good at. So good Miranda becomes pregnant. James is over ten years older and yet he is more ready for the responsibilities then given credit. Then out of the blue tragedy strikes and all is re-evaluated. But don’t fear, an HEA is waiting.
Once I started reading I had a hard time stopping...so I just kept going with only minimal breaks. I really became attached to Miranda and James and haven’t felt that way in a long time about two characters. Bravo!
I’m wholeheartedly recommending this book for your reading enjoyment and pleasure.
I received this ARC from “Bad Boy Update” for my honest review so I’m leaving this for your consideration. Peace.
Author, Donna Alam is a gifted writer of romance stories. She gives her characters wonderful, unique witty dialogue and inner voices. In this story Miranda and James, aka Harry meet when she gets stuck in his father’s doggy door. From then on they don’t know what to do with each other except to have sex. That activity, they are very good at. So good Miranda becomes pregnant. James is over ten years older and yet he is more ready for the responsibilities then given credit. Then out of the blue tragedy strikes and all is re-evaluated. But don’t fear, an HEA is waiting.
Once I started reading I had a hard time stopping...so I just kept going with only minimal breaks. I really became attached to Miranda and James and haven’t felt that way in a long time about two characters. Bravo!
I’m wholeheartedly recommending this book for your reading enjoyment and pleasure.
I received this ARC from “Bad Boy Update” for my honest review so I’m leaving this for your consideration. Peace.
November 24, 2019
(Not) the one by Donna Alam a five-star read that is the one you need to read. This woman has a way with words that mean I wouldn’t kick her out of bed for eating cat food (only the fanciest cat food for furless pussies mind) never mind kick out the hunk of beef she has written about in this story, because he’s yummier than the aforementioned cat food looks on the adverts and weirdly yoga puts me off unless its done in a kilt of course so I was a tad hesitant at first. But then I started reading more and laughing more and leaking, (it was worth the leaking I’m not going to lie). Donna Alam you are the one.
March 8, 2023
I am so blissfully exhausted by this book! Donna Alam has once again put my heart and soul through the wringer and given it a new shiny loved-up lease on life!!
I couldn't wait for this next instalment in Donna's new series following on from To Have and Hate, and this stand-alone Age Gap romance did not disappoint!
The vibrant, driven Miranda Henry we met in THAH.
This PA/come Marketing Manager/come Pet Sitter is working hard to move out of her parents' 'Hate Nest' after her own recent and timely relationship death and to get her life back on track.
So, when in pursuit of one of her runaway furry charges she ends up stuck red handed (or red faced) in her hot neighbor's dog door, they both take advantage of the situation and scratch a lust-filled itch!
Only, said neighbour is no stranger. And this is no one night stand, with no thanks to an untimely pregnancy!!
I loved Miranda's self dialogue and steadfast conviction.
This lady is a woman after my own heart; determined to rise above her ex-fiancee's rejection and get her life on track. But that doesn't mean I didn't want to shake her senseless at times for holding out on our Hero!!
I swooned so very hard for James "Harry" Harrison.
He was so very gentle and patient with the stubborn and bewildered Miranda. Until he wasn't!
Then he's deliciously devious with the most honorable of intentions... to make her his!!
And oh, this man's dirty dirty mouth!!!
He's gone for this girl, and she does her utmost to convince herself she's not as well.
But neither can deny their enviable and obvious sizzling hot chemistry.
And there's one particular scene in this book which is easily the best sex scene I believe, I have ever read! SO HOT!!!!
This is a standout read for me this year and that is entirely due to the way Donna evokes such intense emotion in one scene and then lovingly lightens another with rib-tickling wit and infectious dialogue.
She has long been a one-click author for me but with every story she just gets better and better!
Thank you Donna Alam for this wonderful story, that for so many reasons, will stay in my heart FOREVER!!!
I couldn't wait for this next instalment in Donna's new series following on from To Have and Hate, and this stand-alone Age Gap romance did not disappoint!
The vibrant, driven Miranda Henry we met in THAH.
This PA/come Marketing Manager/come Pet Sitter is working hard to move out of her parents' 'Hate Nest' after her own recent and timely relationship death and to get her life back on track.
So, when in pursuit of one of her runaway furry charges she ends up stuck red handed (or red faced) in her hot neighbor's dog door, they both take advantage of the situation and scratch a lust-filled itch!
Only, said neighbour is no stranger. And this is no one night stand, with no thanks to an untimely pregnancy!!
I loved Miranda's self dialogue and steadfast conviction.
This lady is a woman after my own heart; determined to rise above her ex-fiancee's rejection and get her life on track. But that doesn't mean I didn't want to shake her senseless at times for holding out on our Hero!!
I swooned so very hard for James "Harry" Harrison.
He was so very gentle and patient with the stubborn and bewildered Miranda. Until he wasn't!
Then he's deliciously devious with the most honorable of intentions... to make her his!!
And oh, this man's dirty dirty mouth!!!
He's gone for this girl, and she does her utmost to convince herself she's not as well.
But neither can deny their enviable and obvious sizzling hot chemistry.
And there's one particular scene in this book which is easily the best sex scene I believe, I have ever read! SO HOT!!!!
This is a standout read for me this year and that is entirely due to the way Donna evokes such intense emotion in one scene and then lovingly lightens another with rib-tickling wit and infectious dialogue.
She has long been a one-click author for me but with every story she just gets better and better!
Thank you Donna Alam for this wonderful story, that for so many reasons, will stay in my heart FOREVER!!!
October 4, 2019
I am lucky enough to be in Donna's ARC -team and got my hands on this on Wednesday afternoon, in the middle of my lecture I was attending. It was so HARD to concentrate on the subject at hand and maybe that is why I got a punishing headache. Due to more lectures I was only able to finish the book last night. And what a book it was!!
Donna's dialogue between (all) the characters made me giggle and that was bit of a problem in the middle of the said lecture. As with all of Donna's books so far, the telling of the story is shared between the main characters, and I find I am more eager to read the male perspective than the woman's, maybe as I am familiar with the female train of thought on love, hesitation and worry, to name a few.
The books events take place in London and tell the story of Miranda and James. Miranda is a struggling 22 year old, coming out of a disastrous relationship and works two jobs. It is the second job that brings James into her life, by accident. James is rich and stupidly gorgeous man fast approaching his forties, and is instantly intrigued by the young woman sporting Batman -knickers. Hot and steamy sex follows, and those scenes left me feeling breathless and craving some attention myself.
It was interesting to read Miranda's hesitation towards the future of a relationship between two people from so different backgrounds and social status. Pondering, do those things matter and how much. And what to do when your repeated one-night-stand knocks you up.
What is brilliant is that the characters and their actions are relatable to me and I understand their thoughts and reasoning, which is something that was lacking from the previous book of hers, To have and hate (which I still haven't reviewed).
Up until about three thirds of the book it followed the usual route, but then Donna pulled something new from the bag and...
I read a lot, but this was only second book that has made me cry and crave the hugs of my husband after finishing reading it. First book was Nicholas Evans' The horse whisperer.
There is a happily ever after, but with a twist I'd say. Full on five stars for this one.
October 3, 2019
Donna Alam did a great job on (Not) the One. This was a great story, the plot was well written. It'd had many different feels. Miranda and James were both strong characters. They may have had their differences but these two were made for each other. No matter how hard they fought it, they were drawn to each other. The attraction was strong and their chemistry was sexy. I enjoyed James and Miranda's story, they were great together.
This was a good story. Thank you, Donna Alam. Great work :)
This was a good story. Thank you, Donna Alam. Great work :)
October 4, 2019
ONE WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE!!!
Lock and load! Donna showcases such imagination that's so touching and heart melting with passion, style and finesse that blows this baby wide open. The love and chemistry between the two main characters is such a beautiful thing to behold. Hurdling the trials and tribulations as we witness the struggles our characters endure brings them together move by move. Donna brought out the magic and heat with 100% on point realism that thrusts this baby to life flawlessly. A sizzling storyline and gripping plot melds this bad boy together piece by piece. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it weaves a web around you so intense until everything else ceases to exist. You feel everything the characters feel. You become part of the story instead of a bystander. You fall so deeply in love with the characters you can't help but root for them to make it. Amazing job Donna, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Lock and load! Donna showcases such imagination that's so touching and heart melting with passion, style and finesse that blows this baby wide open. The love and chemistry between the two main characters is such a beautiful thing to behold. Hurdling the trials and tribulations as we witness the struggles our characters endure brings them together move by move. Donna brought out the magic and heat with 100% on point realism that thrusts this baby to life flawlessly. A sizzling storyline and gripping plot melds this bad boy together piece by piece. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it weaves a web around you so intense until everything else ceases to exist. You feel everything the characters feel. You become part of the story instead of a bystander. You fall so deeply in love with the characters you can't help but root for them to make it. Amazing job Donna, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
October 4, 2019
I want to crawl under your ribs and wrap myself around your heart.
This book is set in the same world as To Have and to Hate. Remember Olivia, starting up her own company? Miranda works for Olivia but also has a side job as a pet sitter, which is how she meets James and Rufus. How can their meeting be hilarious, humiliating, and hot all at the same time? This story hooked me from the start, and kept me totally riveted until I was crying at the end. I could feel the wanting James has for Miranda, who guards her heart so tightly. Such patience, understanding, and love. A beautifully emotional read.
This book is set in the same world as To Have and to Hate. Remember Olivia, starting up her own company? Miranda works for Olivia but also has a side job as a pet sitter, which is how she meets James and Rufus. How can their meeting be hilarious, humiliating, and hot all at the same time? This story hooked me from the start, and kept me totally riveted until I was crying at the end. I could feel the wanting James has for Miranda, who guards her heart so tightly. Such patience, understanding, and love. A beautifully emotional read.
February 9, 2020
This was solid romance read that as the book went on it got better!
* accidental pregnancy
* age gap
* accidental pregnancy
* age gap
October 7, 2019
I am slowly but surely making my way through this author's collection and with each book I read of hers, the more I fall in love with her way with words.
(NOT) The One was funny and delicious. The author bought two characters back from her last book and created an awesome, entertaining love story that I could not get enough of. I couldn’t help but fall in love with these two, adding in a steamy, intense, fun plot and I was a goner.
Miranda and James met by chance, and it was not at all what they ever expected... Well, meeting by chance never is... But this one was hilarious... for me and probably James, but not so much for Miranda.
Marinda was driven, quirky, sassy and just all around funny. She hasn't had the best luck with love and is fresh out of a relationship with her ex-fiance. This lands her working as a pet sitter as well as working her day job to make enough money to move back out of her parents' home and into her own and that is where she meets James.
James was swoon-worthy, witty, confident, smart and he was delicious in every way possible and I was completely smitten with him. He is a tender and sweet man, yet he still had that alpha feel to him. When he wanted something, he got it... And he would fight for that someone/something until he got it and he wanted Miranda.
James and Miranda met in the funniest way possible. I laughed my head off on how these two met. James found Miranda stuck in her dad's doggy door. After losing one of the pets' she was meant to be looking after, she finds herself on a hunt to find it around the neighborhood, add in the fact that she is a little tipsy and you get how she got herself into this embarrassing mess. James found it beyond amusing, and I couldn't stop laughing myself. This is a unique, funny chance meeting and I honestly haven't read anything quite like it. I loved it.
James was taken back by this woman, he was smitten and he wanted nothing more than to have her, but she was reluctant as hell and was trying to do everything in her power to change that and prove to him that she wasn't the one for him.
But even though she fought him at every turn, he wasn't giving up that easily and she herself couldn't deny her attraction to the man.
The chemistry between these two was off the charts. Seriously... It was so damn hot and once these two came together and that sexual tension turned into actual sex.. So damn hot! Like kindle melting hot. The author knows how to write a sex scene, that is for sure!
Will Miranda stop being so damn stubborn and see that James could actually BE THE ONE or will she keep trying to push him away?
This book was amazing, but I expected nothing less from Donna. The books I have read of hers already have been outstanding and this one is no exception. Ms. Alam has a way of pulling you fast and keeping your attention all the way through the book. She can write the funniest scene that will have me crying from laughing so hard, and then switch gears and throw me into a scene so thick with angst that I could snap my kindle in half. It's one of the many reasons why I think I have fallen hard for this author's books, and she did just that with NOT The One.
I honestly couldn't get enough. I highly recommend giving this book a chance.
5 Stars!
(NOT) The One was funny and delicious. The author bought two characters back from her last book and created an awesome, entertaining love story that I could not get enough of. I couldn’t help but fall in love with these two, adding in a steamy, intense, fun plot and I was a goner.
Miranda and James met by chance, and it was not at all what they ever expected... Well, meeting by chance never is... But this one was hilarious... for me and probably James, but not so much for Miranda.
Marinda was driven, quirky, sassy and just all around funny. She hasn't had the best luck with love and is fresh out of a relationship with her ex-fiance. This lands her working as a pet sitter as well as working her day job to make enough money to move back out of her parents' home and into her own and that is where she meets James.
James was swoon-worthy, witty, confident, smart and he was delicious in every way possible and I was completely smitten with him. He is a tender and sweet man, yet he still had that alpha feel to him. When he wanted something, he got it... And he would fight for that someone/something until he got it and he wanted Miranda.
James and Miranda met in the funniest way possible. I laughed my head off on how these two met. James found Miranda stuck in her dad's doggy door. After losing one of the pets' she was meant to be looking after, she finds herself on a hunt to find it around the neighborhood, add in the fact that she is a little tipsy and you get how she got herself into this embarrassing mess. James found it beyond amusing, and I couldn't stop laughing myself. This is a unique, funny chance meeting and I honestly haven't read anything quite like it. I loved it.
James was taken back by this woman, he was smitten and he wanted nothing more than to have her, but she was reluctant as hell and was trying to do everything in her power to change that and prove to him that she wasn't the one for him.
But even though she fought him at every turn, he wasn't giving up that easily and she herself couldn't deny her attraction to the man.
The chemistry between these two was off the charts. Seriously... It was so damn hot and once these two came together and that sexual tension turned into actual sex.. So damn hot! Like kindle melting hot. The author knows how to write a sex scene, that is for sure!
Will Miranda stop being so damn stubborn and see that James could actually BE THE ONE or will she keep trying to push him away?
This book was amazing, but I expected nothing less from Donna. The books I have read of hers already have been outstanding and this one is no exception. Ms. Alam has a way of pulling you fast and keeping your attention all the way through the book. She can write the funniest scene that will have me crying from laughing so hard, and then switch gears and throw me into a scene so thick with angst that I could snap my kindle in half. It's one of the many reasons why I think I have fallen hard for this author's books, and she did just that with NOT The One.
I honestly couldn't get enough. I highly recommend giving this book a chance.
5 Stars!
October 4, 2019
I am at a perfect loss for words. I just don’t know what to say about this book that won’t give away all the best parts and be more in depth than “I loved every word of it”. Miranda is fiercely independent and uproariously feisty. She’s also pretty sure she doesn’t believe there’s any such thing as true love anymore. James is the hot older guy next door. But that description doesn’t even begin to scratch his surface. (I’m just afraid that if I go much deeper than that I’m going to give away the whole story.) I loved this pair together. They broke my heart and then with hilarity and love they put it back together again. The snarky wit and sniping banter had me howling laughter to the point that my sides ache and I still haven’t completely caught my breath. And did I see inklings of the next pairing on the horizon? I hope so because those two secondary characters pretty regularly ran away with the show and I would love to learn more about them.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author through Bad Boy Update.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author through Bad Boy Update.
October 4, 2019
I adore James (Harry) & his quest to conquer Miranda's heart!
Some familar faces, James & Miranda, but also Bolivia, Heather, and the E-Volve office as well as Beckett's friends since he's James' best bud.
What starts with the most absurd hilarious meet cute, ends with all humor and love. We get to explore Miranda's side of the infamous speed date night. And boy, what a night she had!
James' finds himself intriged by his charmingly awkward one night stand and in even deeper when he finds her again and their attraction for each other is undeniable. Miranda doesn't trust and James has to work hard to gain her trust and love.
They are both so cute!! I love seeing him be the one who has to convince her he's the one, because she's built the wall around her heart to keep everyone out.
Full of the feels, humor, and heat Donna is so good at delivering. My heart is full of happy!
I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Some familar faces, James & Miranda, but also Bolivia, Heather, and the E-Volve office as well as Beckett's friends since he's James' best bud.
What starts with the most absurd hilarious meet cute, ends with all humor and love. We get to explore Miranda's side of the infamous speed date night. And boy, what a night she had!
James' finds himself intriged by his charmingly awkward one night stand and in even deeper when he finds her again and their attraction for each other is undeniable. Miranda doesn't trust and James has to work hard to gain her trust and love.
They are both so cute!! I love seeing him be the one who has to convince her he's the one, because she's built the wall around her heart to keep everyone out.
Full of the feels, humor, and heat Donna is so good at delivering. My heart is full of happy!
I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 5, 2019
Chemistry that sizzles
Pretty sure I experienced every emotion imaginable while reading this book. It is extremely well written (and decidedly British), with characters that are complex and interesting. While I’ve read many books about one night stands turned into more, I’ve never read a book quite like this one. It’s sensual and sexy, starting off with great banter and sex, slowly moving into the serious side of things. We watch as James and Miranda’s relationship evolves from a rebound to a relationship, building off the fire that was there the moment they met.
The story follows Miranda, a 22-year-old whose fiancé cheated a few months back. She’s just getting past the mourning stage, and is ready to move forward. After a hysterical run-in with the sexy guy next door to the house she’s cat-sitting at, she finds herself having her first one night stand. It is unlike anything she could’ve hoped for, but when she wakes up alone in the morning she’s realizes it’s for the best. While James is no doubt a sexy, charming and handsome man that she has insane chemistry with, there are too many differences between them to even consider something real. But as they run in to each other again weeks later, the chemistry is still there and James doesn’t seem so convinced that they couldn’t work out. That’ll all be put to the test when Miranda discovers that their night together had some lingering effects.
I’ve never read a book by this author before, but the cover and blurb intrigued me. I knew as soon as I started reading that I was in for a great time. The writing had me hooked, engrossing me in the story as I got to know these two. There’s a little of everything - it starts off light, with plenty of humor, banter and some seriously sexy times. As the story moves along, things get deeper, more emotional and heavier, but the underlying lightness doesn’t go away completely. I loved taking the journey with these two and will definitely have to check out more by the author in the future.
Pretty sure I experienced every emotion imaginable while reading this book. It is extremely well written (and decidedly British), with characters that are complex and interesting. While I’ve read many books about one night stands turned into more, I’ve never read a book quite like this one. It’s sensual and sexy, starting off with great banter and sex, slowly moving into the serious side of things. We watch as James and Miranda’s relationship evolves from a rebound to a relationship, building off the fire that was there the moment they met.
The story follows Miranda, a 22-year-old whose fiancé cheated a few months back. She’s just getting past the mourning stage, and is ready to move forward. After a hysterical run-in with the sexy guy next door to the house she’s cat-sitting at, she finds herself having her first one night stand. It is unlike anything she could’ve hoped for, but when she wakes up alone in the morning she’s realizes it’s for the best. While James is no doubt a sexy, charming and handsome man that she has insane chemistry with, there are too many differences between them to even consider something real. But as they run in to each other again weeks later, the chemistry is still there and James doesn’t seem so convinced that they couldn’t work out. That’ll all be put to the test when Miranda discovers that their night together had some lingering effects.
I’ve never read a book by this author before, but the cover and blurb intrigued me. I knew as soon as I started reading that I was in for a great time. The writing had me hooked, engrossing me in the story as I got to know these two. There’s a little of everything - it starts off light, with plenty of humor, banter and some seriously sexy times. As the story moves along, things get deeper, more emotional and heavier, but the underlying lightness doesn’t go away completely. I loved taking the journey with these two and will definitely have to check out more by the author in the future.
July 13, 2023
Recensione in Review Party sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CuohUJhsL...
Miranda sta attraversando un periodo affatto semplice, sul piano sentimentale è un disastro e in famiglia le cose vanno pure peggio.
In questo scenario deprimente e doloroso fa la sua comparsa James, amici di Beckett che abbiamo incontrato nel precedente libro, un uomo con tanti grilli per la testa che pensa solo a divertirsi.
In una maniera davvero esilarante, e complice un bicchiere di troppo, i due vivranno un momento magico, che a detta di entrambi sarebbe rimasto unico.
E invece…beh dovrete leggere questo secondo volume della serie per scoprire cosa succederà tra i due.
🖋️Una lettura scorrevole e veloce, un Contemporary Romance spicy al punto giusto che vi farà trascorrere ore spensierate in allegria e sono certa prenderete le parti di James che vi farà innamorare di lui in un baleno.
*Ringrazio l’autrice per la copia digitale fornita e Le Letture di Anya per avermi invitata a partecipare al Review
https://www.instagram.com/p/CuohUJhsL...
Miranda sta attraversando un periodo affatto semplice, sul piano sentimentale è un disastro e in famiglia le cose vanno pure peggio.
In questo scenario deprimente e doloroso fa la sua comparsa James, amici di Beckett che abbiamo incontrato nel precedente libro, un uomo con tanti grilli per la testa che pensa solo a divertirsi.
In una maniera davvero esilarante, e complice un bicchiere di troppo, i due vivranno un momento magico, che a detta di entrambi sarebbe rimasto unico.
E invece…beh dovrete leggere questo secondo volume della serie per scoprire cosa succederà tra i due.
🖋️Una lettura scorrevole e veloce, un Contemporary Romance spicy al punto giusto che vi farà trascorrere ore spensierate in allegria e sono certa prenderete le parti di James che vi farà innamorare di lui in un baleno.
*Ringrazio l’autrice per la copia digitale fornita e Le Letture di Anya per avermi invitata a partecipare al Review
November 9, 2025
James sen çok tatlı bir detaydın 😍 ama kitabın sonunda bir tık konuyu bağlama sorunu yaşadın.
Olsun, hala çok tatlısın 🥰
Olsun, hala çok tatlısın 🥰
October 4, 2019
What a fun and enjoyable read! I loved Miranda and James together. The banter between them was amazing, they are deliciously sexy together. When Miranda is dumped by her ex it’s time to move on and start over, what she wasn’t expecting was James the hot neighbor next door from where she is pet sitting. James is not like her ex, he’s sexy, delectable, has the filthiest mouth she’s ever heard and she loves it. When an incident leaves her literally stuck halfway in and out of his house, what’s a man to do? Well rescue her of course, but the attraction and lust they are feeling at the moment just might take over and when it does they are combustible. Sometimes I wanted to shake her and say “wake up”!! No spoilers here, this books was amazing, this is the first book by this author for me and now I need To Have and Hate where you first meet Miranda. I need to know more about her. I received a copy of this book.
October 15, 2019
3.5 stars
It was heading into 4 star territory but then we got the ending.
It was heading into 4 star territory but then we got the ending.
March 6, 2023
4.5 Stars! Love a good age-gap romance!
(Audio Review)
I just love a hero who chases the FMC, and this is what we got here. James first meets Miranda under some comedic circumstances when she is pet-sitting for his dad’s neighbour. They later find out they have mutual friends; James the best friend of the hero from book 1, and Miranda, the employee of the heroine from book 1. They spend a mind-blowing night together, after which, he does everything he can to find her. Once he does, he can’t help but chase her (not in a creepy way, but in the way in which he lets her know she is very much what he wants, and he intends to prove it. I loved how he showed time and time again his commitment to her and how much he loved and cared for her. They were great together and had good chemistry. Even with this, they still had a lot to work through before they got their HEA.
It was an emotional, as well as humorous read. This gave me all the feels and I also laughed out loud at points. For readers who love a good age-gap, slightly forbidden romance (Miranda is 22 and James is 38), I highly recommend this.
The ending of the book did feel somewhat rushed and I only wished the story had ended a little differently. But overall, this book was such great fun!
Narrated by Shane East & Zara Hampton-Brown. As always, I loved Shane East in this. Zara Hampton-Brown is a new to me narrator. They both did so great in this. Both their voices suited the characters well, and at every point in the audiobook, they were able to convey the emotions needed to get the characters’ feelings across to the reader, aka, me. Not gonna lie, this audio even had me a little hot and bothered at times also! I truly enjoyed the listening experience!
(Audio Review)
I just love a hero who chases the FMC, and this is what we got here. James first meets Miranda under some comedic circumstances when she is pet-sitting for his dad’s neighbour. They later find out they have mutual friends; James the best friend of the hero from book 1, and Miranda, the employee of the heroine from book 1. They spend a mind-blowing night together, after which, he does everything he can to find her. Once he does, he can’t help but chase her (not in a creepy way, but in the way in which he lets her know she is very much what he wants, and he intends to prove it. I loved how he showed time and time again his commitment to her and how much he loved and cared for her. They were great together and had good chemistry. Even with this, they still had a lot to work through before they got their HEA.
It was an emotional, as well as humorous read. This gave me all the feels and I also laughed out loud at points. For readers who love a good age-gap, slightly forbidden romance (Miranda is 22 and James is 38), I highly recommend this.
The ending of the book did feel somewhat rushed and I only wished the story had ended a little differently. But overall, this book was such great fun!
Narrated by Shane East & Zara Hampton-Brown. As always, I loved Shane East in this. Zara Hampton-Brown is a new to me narrator. They both did so great in this. Both their voices suited the characters well, and at every point in the audiobook, they were able to convey the emotions needed to get the characters’ feelings across to the reader, aka, me. Not gonna lie, this audio even had me a little hot and bothered at times also! I truly enjoyed the listening experience!
October 28, 2019
Cute romance
I love a good leading man. James isn't a bad boy, he doesn't pretend he doesn't like Miranda and act aloof. He is the one chasing her. Trying to ease her into dating him, moving in with him, raising their child together. I love how committed he was to her and how much he loved her. Miranda is funny and babbles and a cute woman. They fit well together and had good chemistry.
I love a good leading man. James isn't a bad boy, he doesn't pretend he doesn't like Miranda and act aloof. He is the one chasing her. Trying to ease her into dating him, moving in with him, raising their child together. I love how committed he was to her and how much he loved her. Miranda is funny and babbles and a cute woman. They fit well together and had good chemistry.
October 12, 2019
I can always count on a Donna Alam book to provide lots of sexy times and plenty of humor. (Not) The One was definitely an enjoyable time. 😉 I might be a little in love with James. He totally swoon-worthy! I liked that it wasn't insta-love for he and Miranda. They had to work a little for their HEA but it was so worth it. 😍
August 1, 2024
this book isn’t too bad but i found myself skimming a lot through it (which led to very 😰😰😰 moments near the end bc i wasn’t focused enough lmfao)
March 7, 2023
3.5⭐️s Cute but uneven…
This was the second installment in Alam’s Love in London series and was a mixed bag for me. After a wonderfully, awkwardly hilarious meet-cute (which I loved) and the establishment of two interesting central characters, there were parts of the story that succumbed to the lesser appealing aspects of its tropes. First up, this is an age-gap, which is much more often miss than hit for me as a reader. And while I appreciated that there were parts here where which engaged with that element head-on, I still find the basically 15-year-age gap icky, especially when the heroine is in her early twenties, barely past college grad age. Though there were character traits that were meant to lend her a level of maturity, there were others that just frustrated and showed her age in a negative way.
Still, as the story progressed, I was compelled by Miranda and James’s love story, as they had great chemistry in and out of the bedroom, and both often showed a charming sense of humor. But then came the last few chapters when the plot descended into a melodrama instead of a romance. The epilogue redeemed things slightly, but I felt this was an unevenly mixed story in the end. Still, I am interested to continue with the series into Heather’s story (though I hope it’s not another pass at the age gap trope, as she’s even younger than Miranda).
Despite the novel’s unevenness, the narration was fantastic and definitely kept me going at the parts when, had I been reading alone, I may have been tempted to set the book aside. Zara Hampton-Brown and Shane Easy were absolutely spectacular. I’ve been a fan of both in previous narrations and their performances here only augmented my admiration for their talents. Brown’s skill often saves Miranda from some of more negative aspects of her character and East exudes his usual charm and makes James even more the best part of this story.
Definitely one that benefits from listening as opposed to reading alone.
I received and ALC via Home Cooked Books and read via KU. All opinions are my own.
This was the second installment in Alam’s Love in London series and was a mixed bag for me. After a wonderfully, awkwardly hilarious meet-cute (which I loved) and the establishment of two interesting central characters, there were parts of the story that succumbed to the lesser appealing aspects of its tropes. First up, this is an age-gap, which is much more often miss than hit for me as a reader. And while I appreciated that there were parts here where which engaged with that element head-on, I still find the basically 15-year-age gap icky, especially when the heroine is in her early twenties, barely past college grad age. Though there were character traits that were meant to lend her a level of maturity, there were others that just frustrated and showed her age in a negative way.
Still, as the story progressed, I was compelled by Miranda and James’s love story, as they had great chemistry in and out of the bedroom, and both often showed a charming sense of humor. But then came the last few chapters when the plot descended into a melodrama instead of a romance. The epilogue redeemed things slightly, but I felt this was an unevenly mixed story in the end. Still, I am interested to continue with the series into Heather’s story (though I hope it’s not another pass at the age gap trope, as she’s even younger than Miranda).
Despite the novel’s unevenness, the narration was fantastic and definitely kept me going at the parts when, had I been reading alone, I may have been tempted to set the book aside. Zara Hampton-Brown and Shane Easy were absolutely spectacular. I’ve been a fan of both in previous narrations and their performances here only augmented my admiration for their talents. Brown’s skill often saves Miranda from some of more negative aspects of her character and East exudes his usual charm and makes James even more the best part of this story.
Definitely one that benefits from listening as opposed to reading alone.
I received and ALC via Home Cooked Books and read via KU. All opinions are my own.
October 5, 2019
What happens when a chance meeting turns into somethng that you were so Not expecting ? You have (Not The One) . Miranda is a young fabulously funny quirky woman that is fresh off a bad break up. She is now working her day job and also moonlighting as a house/pet sitter. When she losses one of the furry critters she is forced to go on a slightly tipsy chase through the neighborhood . She ends up in quite a tight situation when the prissy critter makes it way though a neighbors pet door . While she is now stuck the owner appears and finds this entire situation quite amusing but he also finds the lovely Miranda quite sassy and fabulously funny.
James can't believe the sight before him a neighbor literally stuck an not only is she funny, persuasive she is also quite sexy. So yes this handsome, refined, art dealer is quite enamored by the lovely sight before him and the crazy things that begin to spew from her mouth are so refreshingly funny! This night just got a whole lot more interesting ! Join in on the famously funny, sexy journey of how these two strangers become more acquainted More than they could have ever imagined !!!
~~Michele McMullen~~
James can't believe the sight before him a neighbor literally stuck an not only is she funny, persuasive she is also quite sexy. So yes this handsome, refined, art dealer is quite enamored by the lovely sight before him and the crazy things that begin to spew from her mouth are so refreshingly funny! This night just got a whole lot more interesting ! Join in on the famously funny, sexy journey of how these two strangers become more acquainted More than they could have ever imagined !!!
~~Michele McMullen~~
October 4, 2019
What a steamy and sexy story with a huge TWIST in the end!!! I mean, bring your tissues type! Check out my FULL REVIEW in my BLOG and more -> CLICK HERE
November 2, 2019
It was really cute read. I loved the characters. I really loved Miranda and her humor and eventho it took longer for me to warm up to James - I ended up really liking him. But I have to say I didin't fully connect with them. Because if I did - I would have been a mess then the worst happened. But it didn't get many emotions from me. That said, I still loved the writing style and the plot itself. It was something a little different. I'll be checking out more of this author books.
November 14, 2019
I really enjoyed this book, the whole night stand/unexpected pregnancy is always a favorite trope of mine but this was a bit more. Funny and quirky, with an emotional journey that I loved taking. Miranda is crazy, unexpected and unsure of taking a chance on James. James is older, wiser and richer (which is part of the problem) and just sure enough for the both of them.
March 9, 2023
'(Not) the One' is SO the one! James/Harry...instant heartthrob & husband material! Donna Alam delivers an unforgettable story that will have you swooning, weeping, laughing and everything in between. Simply brilliant! - The British Bibliophile'
Thank you to Donna for kindly approaching me asking me if I would consider listing to an ALC of this audiobook. I, of course, said yes. Beckett and Olivia were a great introduction to this series, and book two sounded even more promising!
Welcome back everyone, to this sensational Love in London series by the one and only Donna Alam. Some of you will already be long-familiar with it, some may not. For me as with book one, the audiobook ALC was my first introduction to both this series and Donna as an author. Luckily for me, I have my favourite narrator as one of two on that and now this audiobook to tell the story to me.
Taking the reins of this audiobook is the one and only tsunami-inducing Shane East, accompanied by Zara Hampton-Brown. New to me for this audiobook, is Zara Hampton-Brown. I've not had the pleasure of listening to her yet on another work, and I have to compliment her and Donna for choosing her, on just how lovely she was to listen to. I already have a personal top favourite female narrator, but I think she might have just been de-throned in favour of Zara. But shh, don't tell anyone!
This audiobook was another blind listen for me, as I had chosen not to read up on the blurb beforehand. I wanted to go into this without knowing what to expect in terms of content and tropes. That didn't last long. Part-way through the audiobook, curiosity got the better of me and I looked up what I'd be in for. All in all, a very interesting and promising story!
And a bonus for my own personal taste? We're also getting a surprise pregnancy trope/storyline! Although it is not the main aspect of the story, I'm a sucker for the trope and how each individual author tackles it. Donna goes the route of accidental love as the main point of the story, rather than focusing on the surprise pregnancy and I'm all here for it.
James and Miranda are as opposite as two people can get. He's rich, and she's a pet sitter. They meet officially face-to-face under an unlikely circumstance, though it does yield hilarious results. Think woman stuck in cat flap + hot neighbour. How it came to be, you'll soon find out. It's definitely a tale to tell the kids or even grandkids, someday. It's not your typical boy-meets-girl, and the results are twice as hilarious and pleasurable both.
I don't think I could even begin to write about just how much--and good--this story was without dropping major spoilers, so I'll say this. As much as I don't like books that make me weep, I made an exception for having a grievance about it here and that's all down to the outstanding delivery of both Zara and Shane in those breath-holding, gripping final chapters. Neither of them can see it, but I'm standing giving them both a round of applause. Well, I will be after submitting this review.
In truth out of the two audiobooks, I have to hand on heart favour this one. The powerful, enticing delivery of the narrators, the awe-inspiring writing from Donna, the hot as hell man on the audiobook cover, what wasn't to love about it?
Proudly, I give this audiobook and all involved in it, five stars!
Thank you to Donna for kindly approaching me asking me if I would consider listing to an ALC of this audiobook. I, of course, said yes. Beckett and Olivia were a great introduction to this series, and book two sounded even more promising!
Welcome back everyone, to this sensational Love in London series by the one and only Donna Alam. Some of you will already be long-familiar with it, some may not. For me as with book one, the audiobook ALC was my first introduction to both this series and Donna as an author. Luckily for me, I have my favourite narrator as one of two on that and now this audiobook to tell the story to me.
Taking the reins of this audiobook is the one and only tsunami-inducing Shane East, accompanied by Zara Hampton-Brown. New to me for this audiobook, is Zara Hampton-Brown. I've not had the pleasure of listening to her yet on another work, and I have to compliment her and Donna for choosing her, on just how lovely she was to listen to. I already have a personal top favourite female narrator, but I think she might have just been de-throned in favour of Zara. But shh, don't tell anyone!
This audiobook was another blind listen for me, as I had chosen not to read up on the blurb beforehand. I wanted to go into this without knowing what to expect in terms of content and tropes. That didn't last long. Part-way through the audiobook, curiosity got the better of me and I looked up what I'd be in for. All in all, a very interesting and promising story!
And a bonus for my own personal taste? We're also getting a surprise pregnancy trope/storyline! Although it is not the main aspect of the story, I'm a sucker for the trope and how each individual author tackles it. Donna goes the route of accidental love as the main point of the story, rather than focusing on the surprise pregnancy and I'm all here for it.
James and Miranda are as opposite as two people can get. He's rich, and she's a pet sitter. They meet officially face-to-face under an unlikely circumstance, though it does yield hilarious results. Think woman stuck in cat flap + hot neighbour. How it came to be, you'll soon find out. It's definitely a tale to tell the kids or even grandkids, someday. It's not your typical boy-meets-girl, and the results are twice as hilarious and pleasurable both.
I don't think I could even begin to write about just how much--and good--this story was without dropping major spoilers, so I'll say this. As much as I don't like books that make me weep, I made an exception for having a grievance about it here and that's all down to the outstanding delivery of both Zara and Shane in those breath-holding, gripping final chapters. Neither of them can see it, but I'm standing giving them both a round of applause. Well, I will be after submitting this review.
In truth out of the two audiobooks, I have to hand on heart favour this one. The powerful, enticing delivery of the narrators, the awe-inspiring writing from Donna, the hot as hell man on the audiobook cover, what wasn't to love about it?
Proudly, I give this audiobook and all involved in it, five stars!
March 1, 2023
**Audiobook Review**
Oh my heart. I went through all the emotions while listening to this story. “Not the One” is a steamy, sweet and heartfelt romance that pulled me in with the chemistry between James and Miranda and kept me there as they built their relationship.
Miranda works with Olivia at her start up dating app and also has a second job as a pet sitter. After a night out, the cat she’s watching gets out and goes into the neighbor’s house. Taking matters into her own hands, Miranda gets stuck in the dog door. And to her horror, she meets the attractive neighbor, James. The two have a mutual connection and an even bigger connection when after an incredible night together, Miranda ends up pregnant.
I loved the little bit we got from James and Miranda in the first book and I’m so happy that they got their story. James is a dirty and delicious dream. He’s kind, smart and patient with Miranda as she went through all of the emotions of finding out she’s pregnant. I loved how he was all in without hesitation and how much he loved Miranda. He’s a swoony book boyfriend. Miranda is a sweet, quirky and genuine person who was so much fun to listen to. Her struggles of trying to make it on her own were so relatable and I loved listening to her navigate all the ups and downs. And those spicy scenes with the tension leading up to them were delicious. It might have started as pure lust but they built such a great relationship.
Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown were phenomenal as James and Miranda. Shane did such a great job, one chapter left me so distracted (and in the good way) that I completely missed my exit while driving. I loved Zara as Miranda, she brought all of her quirky personality to life and was phenomenal in the few chapters that were so full of emotions.
Oh my heart. I went through all the emotions while listening to this story. “Not the One” is a steamy, sweet and heartfelt romance that pulled me in with the chemistry between James and Miranda and kept me there as they built their relationship.
Miranda works with Olivia at her start up dating app and also has a second job as a pet sitter. After a night out, the cat she’s watching gets out and goes into the neighbor’s house. Taking matters into her own hands, Miranda gets stuck in the dog door. And to her horror, she meets the attractive neighbor, James. The two have a mutual connection and an even bigger connection when after an incredible night together, Miranda ends up pregnant.
I loved the little bit we got from James and Miranda in the first book and I’m so happy that they got their story. James is a dirty and delicious dream. He’s kind, smart and patient with Miranda as she went through all of the emotions of finding out she’s pregnant. I loved how he was all in without hesitation and how much he loved Miranda. He’s a swoony book boyfriend. Miranda is a sweet, quirky and genuine person who was so much fun to listen to. Her struggles of trying to make it on her own were so relatable and I loved listening to her navigate all the ups and downs. And those spicy scenes with the tension leading up to them were delicious. It might have started as pure lust but they built such a great relationship.
Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown were phenomenal as James and Miranda. Shane did such a great job, one chapter left me so distracted (and in the good way) that I completely missed my exit while driving. I loved Zara as Miranda, she brought all of her quirky personality to life and was phenomenal in the few chapters that were so full of emotions.
March 4, 2023
3.5/5📚 4/5🎧
(Not) the One by Donna Alam is book two in Donna Alam’s Love in London series. I was intrigued by Miranda when she was introduced in the first book of the series. You know I love when books open with a slapstick meet-cute. (Not) the One has an adorkably sweet and steamy beginning. I’ll be honest though, I had a hard time connecting with the MCs after that. BUT Donna Alam’s storytelling and character development won me over in the end. James was charming and I loved how smitten he was with Miranda from the start. While Miranda was a challenge for me to relate to for part of the book, she charmed her way into my heart. Which almost stopped a few times in the third act. Overall I liked the premise, James was swoon-worthy, and I felt for Miranda.
Shane East plays suave billionaire Brit impeccably. I enjoyed the dichotomy of James’ charismatic & protective side and his endearing & vulnerable side. Shane portrays James’ smoldery, handsome gentleman on the streets and seductive, irresistible hottie in the sheets brilliantly. Zara Hampton-Brown is a newer-to-me narrator. I was charmed by her effusive, quirky, characterization of Miranda in the first chapter. I love Zara’s pacing and gorgeous accent. Despite my trouble relating to the character, I could listen to Zara all day! This was a fun listen.
(Not) the One by Donna Alam is book two in Donna Alam’s Love in London series. I was intrigued by Miranda when she was introduced in the first book of the series. You know I love when books open with a slapstick meet-cute. (Not) the One has an adorkably sweet and steamy beginning. I’ll be honest though, I had a hard time connecting with the MCs after that. BUT Donna Alam’s storytelling and character development won me over in the end. James was charming and I loved how smitten he was with Miranda from the start. While Miranda was a challenge for me to relate to for part of the book, she charmed her way into my heart. Which almost stopped a few times in the third act. Overall I liked the premise, James was swoon-worthy, and I felt for Miranda.
Shane East plays suave billionaire Brit impeccably. I enjoyed the dichotomy of James’ charismatic & protective side and his endearing & vulnerable side. Shane portrays James’ smoldery, handsome gentleman on the streets and seductive, irresistible hottie in the sheets brilliantly. Zara Hampton-Brown is a newer-to-me narrator. I was charmed by her effusive, quirky, characterization of Miranda in the first chapter. I love Zara’s pacing and gorgeous accent. Despite my trouble relating to the character, I could listen to Zara all day! This was a fun listen.
February 27, 2023
[Not] The One
Love in London, #2
by Donna Alam
Narrated by Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown
Donna Alam has a knack for knowing how to write a couple, keep it fresh and captivating with surprises we don't see coming! This is book 2 in her Love in London book, and it's another wonderful listen! Miranda and James are next door neighbors, and with a meet cute like they have, I knew I was in for a treat. Miranda and James hit it off right away, and the one thing they love is sleeping together! But with James ten years older, and their friends with benefits arrangement, what could possibly come of it all? Well, something does, and now it's time for decisions. Alam gives us witty banter, great chemistry, and a couple that is all around fun to be with. But the best is all the inner monologue the James and Miranda have. There is truly something to be said about what we all think without saying! This is a great addition to this series!
Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown are our narrators and what a story they tell. East always delivers such a great performance, and as James he delves into his newly formed relationship and gives us all the feels. Hampton-Brown knows how to bring Miranda's quirky side alive. Each scene, filled with smiles and emotions, I found her portrayal spot on! These two are fantastic together and made for an entertaining listen.
#ALC #comingsoon #contemporaryromance #agegapromance #accidentalpregnancy #audioromance #donnaalam #shaneeast #zarahamptonbrown #homecookedbooks
Love in London, #2
by Donna Alam
Narrated by Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown
Donna Alam has a knack for knowing how to write a couple, keep it fresh and captivating with surprises we don't see coming! This is book 2 in her Love in London book, and it's another wonderful listen! Miranda and James are next door neighbors, and with a meet cute like they have, I knew I was in for a treat. Miranda and James hit it off right away, and the one thing they love is sleeping together! But with James ten years older, and their friends with benefits arrangement, what could possibly come of it all? Well, something does, and now it's time for decisions. Alam gives us witty banter, great chemistry, and a couple that is all around fun to be with. But the best is all the inner monologue the James and Miranda have. There is truly something to be said about what we all think without saying! This is a great addition to this series!
Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown are our narrators and what a story they tell. East always delivers such a great performance, and as James he delves into his newly formed relationship and gives us all the feels. Hampton-Brown knows how to bring Miranda's quirky side alive. Each scene, filled with smiles and emotions, I found her portrayal spot on! These two are fantastic together and made for an entertaining listen.
#ALC #comingsoon #contemporaryromance #agegapromance #accidentalpregnancy #audioromance #donnaalam #shaneeast #zarahamptonbrown #homecookedbooks
March 7, 2023
You would not have to read To Have and To Hate to enjoy [Not] The One, but since the timelines between the books overlap it's neat to see the characters from the first book from another perspective. They play a minor part of the story though, so it's definitely not necessary to read the books in order. Also note - this is a surprise pregnancy book, but not a secret baby book. There is significantly more communication than most books in this trope. Also, it's not often that a turn in the storyline isn't predicable, and I appreciate that this book was a little different.
I listened to the audiobook performed by new-to-me Zara Hampton-Brow and narrator rockstar Shane East. I'm sure that I liked the story more because I listened to it, and I would recommend trying the audio version.
I received a copy of the audiobook at my request (and read in KU), and the opinions here are my own.
I listened to the audiobook performed by new-to-me Zara Hampton-Brow and narrator rockstar Shane East. I'm sure that I liked the story more because I listened to it, and I would recommend trying the audio version.
I received a copy of the audiobook at my request (and read in KU), and the opinions here are my own.
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