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The Doctor and the Midwife
As a midwife running her own home birth practice, Audrey Novak deals with pressure like a superhuman. Until, that is, she meets her handsome and arrogant neighbor, Dr. Ammon Parker. Ammon, who believes only in modern medicine, is just as unprepared for the infuriating---and inconveniently beautiful---midwife. When the two are repeatedly called to the same labor and delivery unit, their clashing ideals and fiercely independent personalities threaten to derail both their professional goals and their pride.
Outside of work, Audrey is a passionate rock climber, tantalized by a secret route she's heard about in an online forum. Her hunt for the climb's location leads her to the intriguing BelayingonofHands, a man who claims to have set the route. Soon their anonymous virtual flirtation and witty exchanges deepen into a true connection. But when Audrey discovers the man from online is actually Ammon, she's blindsided. It seems they have more in common than she could have imagined, but will their differences keep them from making the climb to true love together?
Outside of work, Audrey is a passionate rock climber, tantalized by a secret route she's heard about in an online forum. Her hunt for the climb's location leads her to the intriguing BelayingonofHands, a man who claims to have set the route. Soon their anonymous virtual flirtation and witty exchanges deepen into a true connection. But when Audrey discovers the man from online is actually Ammon, she's blindsided. It seems they have more in common than she could have imagined, but will their differences keep them from making the climb to true love together?
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2020
24 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Alva
5 books53 followersSarah Alva lives in Salt Lake City but calls Arizona home. She graduated from the University of Arizona with degrees in creative writing and political science. In college, she once told a creative writing class she wanted to grow up and be a stay-in-bed mom. She is almost living that dream as a mom to two little boys who don’t like naps or sleeping in as much as she does. When Sarah’s not busy doing mom or wife things, she enjoys reading romance novels in excess, shopping online, and listening to National Public Radio. You can find her on social media at facebook.com/sarah.alva, @writerlysarah, or at sarahalva.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
May 20, 2020
An enemies-to-lovers trope with notes of You’ve Got Mail, what’s not to like? Well, the hero (and a bit of the heroine) in the beginning, but he’s got an arc so stick with him and you’ll be rooting for him in the end. I’ve had 2 children so all the birth terminology and scenarios were familiar and a bit nostalgic. The differences in viewpoint surrounding birth made for a great butting of heads for the two main characters. I liked it!
June 24, 2020
Funny, sweet, and romantic, The Doctor and the Midwife is everything I love about reading contemporary romance. Ms. Alva's characters pulled me in from the first page and their love story held me captive until the very end. This is one book I will be recommending to all my friends!
March 13, 2021
I was fortunate to be able to read this book from start to finish in one sitting! Granted, I started it at three in the morning- but hey, who needs sleep? It's my first time reading this author so I didn't know what to expect, and I was happily sucked right in to the characters and plot. It is definitely a "You've Got Mail" enemies to more story, but the vivid characters and details of the labor and delivery profession- whether midwife or doctor- kept me glued to the pages. Audrey and Ammon both have their own issues and vulnerabilities they are privately dealing with, so for a while they only see the parts of each other that they intensely dislike. They totally bring out the worst in each other! It takes plenty of eye-opening experiences together and some influence from friends for both of them to look past the facades they each put up. Totally cried at the more emotional parts, and I loved the journey these two went on together.
My one beef is that the author was careful to describe certain things in a politically correct manner- for example, instead of "homeless person" she used "a person experiencing homelessness," but when describing adoption she used the stigmatized term "put up for adoption" instead of the preferred positive term "placed for adoption." It wouldn't bother me if it was someone's dialogue since I understand it is a commonly used term, but it was part of the narrative the same way the other PC terms were used. This may just be a huge pet peeve of mine since I am a mother who has adopted, but the main character Audrey is very socially conscious so I think it would have been more appropriate to use a more acceptable phrase for describing adoption.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
My one beef is that the author was careful to describe certain things in a politically correct manner- for example, instead of "homeless person" she used "a person experiencing homelessness," but when describing adoption she used the stigmatized term "put up for adoption" instead of the preferred positive term "placed for adoption." It wouldn't bother me if it was someone's dialogue since I understand it is a commonly used term, but it was part of the narrative the same way the other PC terms were used. This may just be a huge pet peeve of mine since I am a mother who has adopted, but the main character Audrey is very socially conscious so I think it would have been more appropriate to use a more acceptable phrase for describing adoption.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
August 20, 2020
I hadn't read any of Sarah Alva's books before, but the premise of this one really caught my eye! My husband and I used to rock climb and a lot, and I used to work in a birthing center and my dad is a doctor, so I love all things medical. As an aside, I loved the research that clearly went into this book. So far as I could tell, it was all accurate, and written in a way that was both interesting and informative, without the medical side of things overtaking the story.
I liked Audrey from the beginning. She was strong, but with a soft side, and I loved her interactions with Ammon.
Ammon, of course, was an arrogant doctor, who's pride was really covering up his uncertainty about his choices and future. His character arc was fantastic and I loved the way the author wrote him. He bordered on unlikeable, but became such an amazing hero by the end of the book.
I loved the "You've Got Mail" parallels, and really enjoyed Ammon and Audrey's interactions on the rock climbing forum. The way those two worlds collided (virtual and literal), felt very natural and believable to me. Both characters reacted in a way true to them and it was a great (though low) point in the novel!
Really, it is just a fantastic contemporary romance with themes from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I loved it!
I liked Audrey from the beginning. She was strong, but with a soft side, and I loved her interactions with Ammon.
Ammon, of course, was an arrogant doctor, who's pride was really covering up his uncertainty about his choices and future. His character arc was fantastic and I loved the way the author wrote him. He bordered on unlikeable, but became such an amazing hero by the end of the book.
I loved the "You've Got Mail" parallels, and really enjoyed Ammon and Audrey's interactions on the rock climbing forum. The way those two worlds collided (virtual and literal), felt very natural and believable to me. Both characters reacted in a way true to them and it was a great (though low) point in the novel!
Really, it is just a fantastic contemporary romance with themes from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I loved it!
June 24, 2020
Sarah Alva delivers punchy lines and barbed insults, along with all the joy, confusion, and twitters of falling in love. The Doctor and The Midwife will give you all the feels.
June 18, 2020
I hadn't read anything by Sarah Alva before, but I love a good medical romance so I was excited to pick up The Doctor and the Midwife!
Audrey Novak has dealt with plenty of doctors who don't believe that midwives have a place in childbirth. So, when she meets the new doctor in her apartment complex, she's not surprised he seems against her profession. She tries to steer clear of the arrogant man, but he keeps popping up in places she doesn't expect. They don't get along, yet sparks fly when they're together. When Audrey meets a guy online that she connects with, they give each other a kindness challenge, so Audrey tries it out on the doctor. She starts to see another side of him, but is that enough to build a friendship on? Or more?
I really enjoyed the way the author set up this romance. She uses a lot of the same ideas as the movie "You've Got Mail" only they are rock-climbers that are messaging each other. I thought the characters were believable and relatable. Audrey is trying to help her patients have a safe birth at home and have a voice in the choices that are made. Ammon, as a doctor, is also working for a safe birth for his patients---at a hospital. It was nice to see them work together and see that maybe their first impressions were wrong. The secondary cast was also well-done and added depth to the story, along with the rock-climbing aspect. Some readers might have trouble with all the medical jargon used, but the emotions of the situations are easy to feel. Both main characters have some baggage to work through and the author does a great job of letting the reader experience the growth with the characters and not rushing through anything. The romance is sweet and I'll definitely be looking for another book by this author!
Audrey Novak has dealt with plenty of doctors who don't believe that midwives have a place in childbirth. So, when she meets the new doctor in her apartment complex, she's not surprised he seems against her profession. She tries to steer clear of the arrogant man, but he keeps popping up in places she doesn't expect. They don't get along, yet sparks fly when they're together. When Audrey meets a guy online that she connects with, they give each other a kindness challenge, so Audrey tries it out on the doctor. She starts to see another side of him, but is that enough to build a friendship on? Or more?
I really enjoyed the way the author set up this romance. She uses a lot of the same ideas as the movie "You've Got Mail" only they are rock-climbers that are messaging each other. I thought the characters were believable and relatable. Audrey is trying to help her patients have a safe birth at home and have a voice in the choices that are made. Ammon, as a doctor, is also working for a safe birth for his patients---at a hospital. It was nice to see them work together and see that maybe their first impressions were wrong. The secondary cast was also well-done and added depth to the story, along with the rock-climbing aspect. Some readers might have trouble with all the medical jargon used, but the emotions of the situations are easy to feel. Both main characters have some baggage to work through and the author does a great job of letting the reader experience the growth with the characters and not rushing through anything. The romance is sweet and I'll definitely be looking for another book by this author!
May 13, 2020
So much to love about this book! Considering the connection in the professions, you’d expect that these two characters would have had that as the common thread to connect, not be the cause of the antagonism between them. Both Ammon and Audrey are highly skilled in their jobs, but they share an alternate outlook on women’s options during childbirth. This is far from one dimensional as a plot, with multiple layers, additional characters that add to the experience.
It was fun to return to the same Apartment complex of Everything She Wants, and revisit past characters. There is the right amount of emotional connection, and a desire to see both of these characters find their way through, and find the truth about each other a long the way.
It’s a reminder that judging on first impressions or being unwilling to listen to another person’s experiences can often lead to contention, pain and lost friendships.
Couldn’t put this down, especially the last half of the book, I stayed up way too late (this is my second read through) to finish it again!!!
It was fun to return to the same Apartment complex of Everything She Wants, and revisit past characters. There is the right amount of emotional connection, and a desire to see both of these characters find their way through, and find the truth about each other a long the way.
It’s a reminder that judging on first impressions or being unwilling to listen to another person’s experiences can often lead to contention, pain and lost friendships.
Couldn’t put this down, especially the last half of the book, I stayed up way too late (this is my second read through) to finish it again!!!
September 1, 2020
This is the perfect book for fans of Christian Romance. The opposing medical viewpoints is very enlightening and will keep readers engaged.
Read full review in the 2020 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2020 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 22, 2020
Sweet, quirky, and cute contemporary romance. For those who loved You've Got Mail, this is for you.
September 8, 2020
4.5 Stars
THE DOCTOR AND THE MIDWIFE is a twist on the classic movie In the Good Old Summertime or the newer classic, You've Got Mail. It's the story of two people who build a connection through the Internet without realizing that they don't like each other in real life. It's a story full of snark, humor, heart-touching situations, friendship, and a slowly-building romance. Definitely a story that contemporary Christian romance fans will enjoy!
I loved the banter and chemistry between Audrey and Ammon, but Audrey... man, she had a huge chip on her shoulder! She was downright mean and rude and Ammon would respond accordingly. It took me a bit to actually like her, making me torn at the beginning of this, but I was really curious how they would work things out. Even from the start, you could feel an instant tension between these two and their snarky dialogue (which was quite entertaining) as well as their individual moments when they were trying to be the best at what they did, pushed me forward. As the story unfolds, so do these characters with their vulnerabilities, their dreams, and their strengths. I ended up loving them both so much!
There were some really difficult sections of this story. Parts that made me cry that dealt with grief and loss. Ammon and Audrey both act so confident. They have to. Ammon is still trying to find his footing as a doctor and Audrey is trying to grow her business and face others' doubts but also her own. It was really interesting to have two characters at somewhat opposite ends of a profession in a way, and see how they could work their way to respect and come to understand each other. They both had to adjust their perspectives, but I liked that they also found things they could take from the other and apply to their own roles. I also felt like Ammon really developed in this story, and I always enjoy when a character does that.
The author did such a fabulous job in retelling a classic, but really making it her own. Having watched both the older movie and You've Got Mail a million times, it was fun finding what was similar and what was different. The things I love about the movie are also present here and I appreciated that here, there isn't any cheating. There's also a light touch of an inspirational element woven throughout as both of these characters are religious. However, there wasn't anything preachy - it's just who they are. I really loved seeing their friendship and then romance bloom and the story progress to a very satisfying end.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed this story! It was a great mix of humor and romance, but also some really heart-wrenching things that made this a story that pulled on my emotions. I'm looking forward to more from this author!
Content: Clean, although there are some triggers in regards to childbirth.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
THE DOCTOR AND THE MIDWIFE is a twist on the classic movie In the Good Old Summertime or the newer classic, You've Got Mail. It's the story of two people who build a connection through the Internet without realizing that they don't like each other in real life. It's a story full of snark, humor, heart-touching situations, friendship, and a slowly-building romance. Definitely a story that contemporary Christian romance fans will enjoy!
I loved the banter and chemistry between Audrey and Ammon, but Audrey... man, she had a huge chip on her shoulder! She was downright mean and rude and Ammon would respond accordingly. It took me a bit to actually like her, making me torn at the beginning of this, but I was really curious how they would work things out. Even from the start, you could feel an instant tension between these two and their snarky dialogue (which was quite entertaining) as well as their individual moments when they were trying to be the best at what they did, pushed me forward. As the story unfolds, so do these characters with their vulnerabilities, their dreams, and their strengths. I ended up loving them both so much!
There were some really difficult sections of this story. Parts that made me cry that dealt with grief and loss. Ammon and Audrey both act so confident. They have to. Ammon is still trying to find his footing as a doctor and Audrey is trying to grow her business and face others' doubts but also her own. It was really interesting to have two characters at somewhat opposite ends of a profession in a way, and see how they could work their way to respect and come to understand each other. They both had to adjust their perspectives, but I liked that they also found things they could take from the other and apply to their own roles. I also felt like Ammon really developed in this story, and I always enjoy when a character does that.
The author did such a fabulous job in retelling a classic, but really making it her own. Having watched both the older movie and You've Got Mail a million times, it was fun finding what was similar and what was different. The things I love about the movie are also present here and I appreciated that here, there isn't any cheating. There's also a light touch of an inspirational element woven throughout as both of these characters are religious. However, there wasn't anything preachy - it's just who they are. I really loved seeing their friendship and then romance bloom and the story progress to a very satisfying end.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed this story! It was a great mix of humor and romance, but also some really heart-wrenching things that made this a story that pulled on my emotions. I'm looking forward to more from this author!
Content: Clean, although there are some triggers in regards to childbirth.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
August 9, 2020
A sweet, charming and romantic story with You've Got Mail vibes.
June 29, 2020
I passed on this book several times because of the cover (yes, I judge books by their covers), but then I saw a friend with similar reading tastes recommend it so I took a chance.
Audrey is a midwife who assists women with at-home births and Ammon is an ob-gyn doctor who works at the local hospital. There are sparks between them in their first brief meeting, but soon they clash hard—they are fundamentally opposed to what the other does and thinks.
At the same time, Audrey meets a guy on a rock climbing board and they start talking. She wants the coordinates to a certain place and the guy wants to make sure she deserves going there.
The guy is Ammon and he's surprised when he later finds out that Audrey is the girl he's been talking to in the rock climbing board for weeks.
It's a really cute story, it's well written, and despite the familiar "You've Got Mail" plot, it still had me reading it in one seating, wondering how Audrey and Ammon would get over their reservations over the other.
The ending was kind of abrupt, as I've come to expect from most stories by this publisher.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Audrey is a midwife who assists women with at-home births and Ammon is an ob-gyn doctor who works at the local hospital. There are sparks between them in their first brief meeting, but soon they clash hard—they are fundamentally opposed to what the other does and thinks.
At the same time, Audrey meets a guy on a rock climbing board and they start talking. She wants the coordinates to a certain place and the guy wants to make sure she deserves going there.
The guy is Ammon and he's surprised when he later finds out that Audrey is the girl he's been talking to in the rock climbing board for weeks.
It's a really cute story, it's well written, and despite the familiar "You've Got Mail" plot, it still had me reading it in one seating, wondering how Audrey and Ammon would get over their reservations over the other.
The ending was kind of abrupt, as I've come to expect from most stories by this publisher.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
April 26, 2023
Highly Recommend
I have recently been reading a lot of romance books and I still only have a few I would consider to be on my “I would totally recommend this” list. This book though, was amazing! I laughed, I cried, I definitely felt attached to these characters and didn’t want it to end!
I have never given birth myself, so I wasn’t entirely familiar with all the terms used, but this book is definitely worth a read.
This book also references some characters from her other book “Everything She Wants”, which is also a good read, but you won’t feel lost if you don’t read it first.
I have recently been reading a lot of romance books and I still only have a few I would consider to be on my “I would totally recommend this” list. This book though, was amazing! I laughed, I cried, I definitely felt attached to these characters and didn’t want it to end!
I have never given birth myself, so I wasn’t entirely familiar with all the terms used, but this book is definitely worth a read.
This book also references some characters from her other book “Everything She Wants”, which is also a good read, but you won’t feel lost if you don’t read it first.
September 13, 2020
Sarah Alva's a new author to me but the book blurb sounded interesting. You'd think a doctor and a midwife would get along pretty well, but not when the doctor makes his dislike and mistrust of midwives known at their first meeting! Ammon really put both feet in it when he basically said Audrey was an unsafe provider and provided inadequate care. When he finds out that Audrey is a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), far from an unsafe provider, he has to eat his words and apologize.
Audrey and Ammon are both rock climbers and connect through a rock climbing board, but neither knows the other's real name, and although they frequently bump heads a lot in real life, they get along quite well conversing through the board. I kept waiting for them to figure out who the other was.
I liked that Audrey not only improved her relationship with Ammon, but also her mother. I enjoyed watching both characters learn their first impressions of each other were wrong. I liked that the story wasn't just about their professions, although it was a big part of it. We get to see them with their friends.
I received a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Audrey and Ammon are both rock climbers and connect through a rock climbing board, but neither knows the other's real name, and although they frequently bump heads a lot in real life, they get along quite well conversing through the board. I kept waiting for them to figure out who the other was.
I liked that Audrey not only improved her relationship with Ammon, but also her mother. I enjoyed watching both characters learn their first impressions of each other were wrong. I liked that the story wasn't just about their professions, although it was a big part of it. We get to see them with their friends.
I received a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 9, 2020
Audrey Novak is a driven young woman. With her own midwifery practice and years of experience of helping women have the best experience possible while giving birth, Audrey knows what it means to be a patient's advocate.
Dr. Ammon Parker is a second-year resident who struggles with knowing whether or not he picked the correct profession.
When Audrey and Ammon meet, sparks fly. With Ammon insulting her profession and belief in midwifery, Audrey is determined to avoid him and to continue to be an advocate for pregnant women.
A fun romance filled with witty conversations, great character development, and plenty to laugh and smile about, The Doctor and the Midwife is a story you won't want to miss.
Dr. Ammon Parker is a second-year resident who struggles with knowing whether or not he picked the correct profession.
When Audrey and Ammon meet, sparks fly. With Ammon insulting her profession and belief in midwifery, Audrey is determined to avoid him and to continue to be an advocate for pregnant women.
A fun romance filled with witty conversations, great character development, and plenty to laugh and smile about, The Doctor and the Midwife is a story you won't want to miss.
August 13, 2020
I was so intrigued by the title the minute I first read it. Opposition first came to my mind, and that's what's in full abundance in this Contemporary Christian Romance: Opposites Attract...eventually! The main characters, Audrey the Midwife, and Ammon, the Doctor don't have a terrific start as their beliefs differ in the perfect way for women to give birth. In fact, you could say they are "Frenemies" throughout much of the book. This fact alone makes this novel so much fun to read. You have two people that have such opposite views about childbirth, one is kind of arrogant and the other can be prideful. The sad part is that they both were hurting in their own ways. One thing after another happens that compounds their problems. Add in both of their rock climbing passions, an online forum where they sit anonymously behind their screens, and somehow they fall for each other; until the truth comes out.
I loved the paths that the characters went down that helped them become stronger people. In the end, Ammon learns to let go of his pride and arrogance, while Audrey learns to open her heart and trust again. There is a lot of witty dialogue, funny moments, and several heart-wrenching scenes that will make you cry: I mean, get the tissues ready!
This romance of highs and lows will entertain you and make you think. I learned to love the characters as they fell for each other. Clean Romance readers will want to buy this one and then tell their friends about it.
I loved the paths that the characters went down that helped them become stronger people. In the end, Ammon learns to let go of his pride and arrogance, while Audrey learns to open her heart and trust again. There is a lot of witty dialogue, funny moments, and several heart-wrenching scenes that will make you cry: I mean, get the tissues ready!
This romance of highs and lows will entertain you and make you think. I learned to love the characters as they fell for each other. Clean Romance readers will want to buy this one and then tell their friends about it.
September 2, 2020
I absolutely give this book 5 stars! It’s got a very Shop Around The Corner or You’ve Got Mail feel. I love the banter and humor between the characters. I found myself chuckling out loud all throughout the book. Several times my husband asked me what are you smiling about or what’s so funny? I felt a little sad when the book came to an end because I enjoyed the people in the book and the story line so much. If you like contemporary fiction you definitely should pick this one up!
May 10, 2020
Thank you net galley for the advance reader copy of this novel. This was a clean contemporary romance between a doctor and midwife who get off on the wrong foot. It has a "You've got mail" vibe to it and was wonderfully written. I enjoyed the characters, the snarky dialogue, and the dates attraction. Both characters, Aubrey and Ammon, learn to trust each other and help each other with heavy burdens. This book is very clean but you will definitely be cheering on our couple!!! I even learned a lot about pregnancy birth options. Great read and highly recommend this author!!!!
September 8, 2020
Even though the events in this book are fictional, some made me cry happy and sad tears. I loved the visual effect this author creates with her writing!
I like to read books that make me empathize with the characters like in this book. These characters were people I would enjoy meeting.
Reading this novel reminded me of all the possible myths there are surrounding home birth and midwives. I loved the first meeting between Audrey and Ammon. One thing I liked about Ammon as a doctor was that he prayed before surgery! This is the type of doctor I would want to work with.
Audrey and Ammon’s anonymous exchanges are hilarious! They had several Pride and Prejudice type moments.
I hope there is a sequel featuring the roommates Ellie and Freddy! That would be sweet!
I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own. Originally posted with a Giveaway on Book of Ruth Ann!
I like to read books that make me empathize with the characters like in this book. These characters were people I would enjoy meeting.
Reading this novel reminded me of all the possible myths there are surrounding home birth and midwives. I loved the first meeting between Audrey and Ammon. One thing I liked about Ammon as a doctor was that he prayed before surgery! This is the type of doctor I would want to work with.
Audrey and Ammon’s anonymous exchanges are hilarious! They had several Pride and Prejudice type moments.
I hope there is a sequel featuring the roommates Ellie and Freddy! That would be sweet!
I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own. Originally posted with a Giveaway on Book of Ruth Ann!
November 19, 2024
This book put so many things that are close to my heart all together into one clean romance novel (another thing I love): babies, birth, midwifery, a love of outdoors! It was hard to go wrong and I am glad I picked it up. It was a fun fast read that I had a hard time putting down.
Re-read Nov 2024
I enjoyed this story again. Quick clean read 💕
Re-read Nov 2024
I enjoyed this story again. Quick clean read 💕
January 2, 2022
During the Pandemic I needed a happy book and this is a go to for happy for sure.
August 17, 2020
The Doctor and the Midwife
by Sarah Alva
Back of the Book: “As a midwife running her own home birth practice, Audrey Novak deals with pressure like a superhuman. Until, that is, she meets her handsome and arrogant neighbor, Dr. Ammon Parker. Ammon, who believes only in modern medicine, is just as unprepared for the infuriating---and inconveniently beautiful---midwife. When the two are repeatedly called to the same labor and delivery unit, their clashing ideals and fiercely independent personalities threaten to derail both their professional goals and their pride.
Outside of work, Audrey is a passionate rock climber, tantalized by a secret route she's heard about in an online forum. Her hunt for the climb's location leads her to the intriguing Belaying on of Hands, a man who claims to have set the route. Soon their anonymous virtual flirtation and witty exchanges deepen into a true connection. But when Audrey discovers the man from online is actually Ammon, she's blindsided. It seems they have more in common than she could have imagined, but will their differences keep them from making the climb to true love together?”
Impressions: This was a charming and clean romance with lessons on OB and Midwifery woven through.
Liked: I enjoyed this romance and thought that the ideas of first impressions and struggle with in-person communication to be relatable. I find myself better spoken at times typed out rather than spoken. I find myself thinking through my thoughts and words more when I am relaxed at the computer rather than on the spot with another person. That being said I can only imagine the impressions I’ve made throughout my life with the dumb things that have rolled right out of my mouth. I am thankful for second chances and the delete button😊
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
by Sarah Alva
Back of the Book: “As a midwife running her own home birth practice, Audrey Novak deals with pressure like a superhuman. Until, that is, she meets her handsome and arrogant neighbor, Dr. Ammon Parker. Ammon, who believes only in modern medicine, is just as unprepared for the infuriating---and inconveniently beautiful---midwife. When the two are repeatedly called to the same labor and delivery unit, their clashing ideals and fiercely independent personalities threaten to derail both their professional goals and their pride.
Outside of work, Audrey is a passionate rock climber, tantalized by a secret route she's heard about in an online forum. Her hunt for the climb's location leads her to the intriguing Belaying on of Hands, a man who claims to have set the route. Soon their anonymous virtual flirtation and witty exchanges deepen into a true connection. But when Audrey discovers the man from online is actually Ammon, she's blindsided. It seems they have more in common than she could have imagined, but will their differences keep them from making the climb to true love together?”
Impressions: This was a charming and clean romance with lessons on OB and Midwifery woven through.
Liked: I enjoyed this romance and thought that the ideas of first impressions and struggle with in-person communication to be relatable. I find myself better spoken at times typed out rather than spoken. I find myself thinking through my thoughts and words more when I am relaxed at the computer rather than on the spot with another person. That being said I can only imagine the impressions I’ve made throughout my life with the dumb things that have rolled right out of my mouth. I am thankful for second chances and the delete button😊
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
August 3, 2020
This book was such a fun read I couldn't put it down which meant I stayed up way too late to finish it, but it was totally worth it! The humor in the story was seriously entertaining; I absolutely loved the banter and flirting that took place between Audrey and Ammon's messages (or should I say Bell and Belay's) and then the way they put each other's advice into practice and had some unexpected results and entertaining flirtatious moments in their "real" lives. A fun enemies to lovers trope, I loved the common ground and interests the two eventually discover and the way their relationship seemed to realistically develop. If you are a fan of You've Got Mail, this is a unique spin on that which I truly enjoyed and definitely recommend.
I found it really interesting and well done the way the author handled the two professions particularly Ammon being an ob-gyn doctor and Audrey a professional midwife and some of the perceptions and misconceptions that go along with both. The book deals with pregnancy in a sense, but nothing in this novel is crude or descriptive in a way that would make someone uncomfortable reading it. In fact, I found it insightful on both ends, what it must feel like to be a part of the birthing process in both capacities. The main focus of the novel is the relationship that Audrey and Ammon have and the dynamic they develop.
I really enjoyed this book and the way it felt original while still using the whole You've Got Mail idea as an overall plot theme. If you want a clean contemporary romance that will grab your attention and give you all the feels, check this one out!
I found it really interesting and well done the way the author handled the two professions particularly Ammon being an ob-gyn doctor and Audrey a professional midwife and some of the perceptions and misconceptions that go along with both. The book deals with pregnancy in a sense, but nothing in this novel is crude or descriptive in a way that would make someone uncomfortable reading it. In fact, I found it insightful on both ends, what it must feel like to be a part of the birthing process in both capacities. The main focus of the novel is the relationship that Audrey and Ammon have and the dynamic they develop.
I really enjoyed this book and the way it felt original while still using the whole You've Got Mail idea as an overall plot theme. If you want a clean contemporary romance that will grab your attention and give you all the feels, check this one out!
August 19, 2020
Witty Banter, Hidden Social Media Identities, and Frenemies turned Lovers
THIS IS A MUST READ! If you have ever read contemporary proper romance and enjoyed it then this book is just for you. Audrey Novak (a registered CNM) and Dr. Ammon Parker (OBGYN) are both young and new to their fields of medicine. They have different views on care for patients, and so of course they start a relationship off of misrepresenting who they truly are. At the same time, they accidentally meet online through a rock climbing social media app, and you can only guess where this leads. (You’ve Got Mail vibes were strong but in a different way)
I personally loved seeing the story from the dual point of view, and to see the transformation of the characters was just beautiful!!! Truly the number of times that both of them change their opinions based on the actions of the other is so adorable! I love the change that Audrey goes through to not sabotage her happiness, and Ammon changes from prideful and egotistical physician to a respectful and loving human. It is truly a must read!
A special thank you to Covenant Communications and Sarah Alva for the digital ARC provided by Netgalley. All opinions are my own and in no way biased.
THIS IS A MUST READ! If you have ever read contemporary proper romance and enjoyed it then this book is just for you. Audrey Novak (a registered CNM) and Dr. Ammon Parker (OBGYN) are both young and new to their fields of medicine. They have different views on care for patients, and so of course they start a relationship off of misrepresenting who they truly are. At the same time, they accidentally meet online through a rock climbing social media app, and you can only guess where this leads. (You’ve Got Mail vibes were strong but in a different way)
I personally loved seeing the story from the dual point of view, and to see the transformation of the characters was just beautiful!!! Truly the number of times that both of them change their opinions based on the actions of the other is so adorable! I love the change that Audrey goes through to not sabotage her happiness, and Ammon changes from prideful and egotistical physician to a respectful and loving human. It is truly a must read!
A special thank you to Covenant Communications and Sarah Alva for the digital ARC provided by Netgalley. All opinions are my own and in no way biased.
August 1, 2024
Absolutely loved this story, Ammon an OB, and Audrey a Midwife clash over their views on hospital birth vs home birth. Ammon feels it is unsafe for women to give birth at home and Audrey feels that in many ways a home birth is more beneficial than a clinical one.
Ammon and Audrey pretty much butt heads through most of the story but unbeknownst to them, they are falling in love online. They are both part of a rock-climbing forum online and get along great online but in real life, they cannot stand each other.
This story flowed great for me, I loved the buildup between Ammon and Audrey and how they grew and learned from each other. This story was also very informative, we see hospital births and home births each has its own pros and cons. Being a doula herself, I really appreciated that the author presented us with authentic facts, I now know a lot about home birth and also the bad side of hospital birth. Overall great read.
Ammon and Audrey pretty much butt heads through most of the story but unbeknownst to them, they are falling in love online. They are both part of a rock-climbing forum online and get along great online but in real life, they cannot stand each other.
This story flowed great for me, I loved the buildup between Ammon and Audrey and how they grew and learned from each other. This story was also very informative, we see hospital births and home births each has its own pros and cons. Being a doula herself, I really appreciated that the author presented us with authentic facts, I now know a lot about home birth and also the bad side of hospital birth. Overall great read.
January 26, 2024
In other enemies-to-lovers I always struggle to believe the balance between “wow, they really do dislike each other for believable reasons” to “okay, they could definitely overcome it and like each other” but this book did it (childbirth opinions, man. They can get dicey lol).
I read this after swapping recs with someone so I had no clue it was “LDS fiction” but it honestly didn’t bother me and wasn’t at all in your face type of churchy. AND you can’t deny that “BelayingOnOfHands” is a genius username for a rock climber, don’t lie to yourself😂
Nothing was fabulously quotable and there were a few cliche lines here and there, but it was gently gripping and made me tear up twice. Out of left field, but a good’n.
I read this after swapping recs with someone so I had no clue it was “LDS fiction” but it honestly didn’t bother me and wasn’t at all in your face type of churchy. AND you can’t deny that “BelayingOnOfHands” is a genius username for a rock climber, don’t lie to yourself😂
Nothing was fabulously quotable and there were a few cliche lines here and there, but it was gently gripping and made me tear up twice. Out of left field, but a good’n.
August 22, 2023
I have personal experience birthing at University Hospital. And, I have a husband who's a Dr and I've been through Med school and Residency with him. This book involves both.
Some scenes in the book were triggering to past difficulties. But overall I really enjoyed this book. It had short chapters which I prefer. It's a fast read. And, I especially liked that the characters could learn and recognize ways in which they could improve. It's good to be teachable.
Some scenes in the book were triggering to past difficulties. But overall I really enjoyed this book. It had short chapters which I prefer. It's a fast read. And, I especially liked that the characters could learn and recognize ways in which they could improve. It's good to be teachable.
September 1, 2020
I loved this You've Got Mail-ish romance in which a rock-climbing midwife meets a soul-searching resident and they clash both professionally and personally, not knowing that they've been chatting and falling for each other online. They both have their hang-ups and differences. But they're also exactly what the other needs. Sweet and fun, but with substance!
March 18, 2021
Wow!
Kind of a You've Got Mail meets General Hospital. So interesting! I learned so much. Like after having 5 kids who are now teens and older (ie I'm way passed child bearing years and eagerly awaiting grand children), I'd have another one to use the knowledge I've gained from this story. Humorous and heart wrenching. Clean and deep. I'll definitely read this one again.
Kind of a You've Got Mail meets General Hospital. So interesting! I learned so much. Like after having 5 kids who are now teens and older (ie I'm way passed child bearing years and eagerly awaiting grand children), I'd have another one to use the knowledge I've gained from this story. Humorous and heart wrenching. Clean and deep. I'll definitely read this one again.
May 8, 2023
3.5 This book was actually not too cheesy! I may have cried a tear or two, and I learned a little about birthing plans as well. At one point it seemed almost ridiculous that Ammon and Audrey didn't realize they were talking to each other online, but I was able to remind myself that this is fiction and enjoy it. Definitely LDS clean romance.
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