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The Burbs #1
Back in the Burbs
Ever have one of those days where life just plain sucks? Welcome to my last three months—ever since I caught my can’t-be-soon-enough ex-husband cheating with his paralegal. I’m thirty-five years old, and I’ve lost my NYC apartment, my job, my money, and frankly, my dignity.
But the final heartache in the suck sandwich of my life? My great-aunt Maggie died. The only family member who’s ever gotten me.
Even after death, though, she’s helping me get back up. She’s willed me the keys to a house in the burbs, of all places, and dared me to grab life by the family jewels. Well, I’ve got the vise grips already in hand (my ex should take note) and I’m ready to fight for my life again.
Too bad that bravado only lasts as long as it takes to drive into Huckleberry Hills. And see the house.
There are forty-seven separate HOA violations, and I feel them all in my bones. Honestly, I’m surprised no one’s “accidentally” torched the house yet. I want to, and I’ve only been standing in front of it for five minutes. But then my hot, grumpy neighbor tells me to mow the lawn first and I’m just...done. Done with men too sexy for their own good and done with anyone telling me what to do ever again.
First rule of surviving the burbs? There is nothing that YouTube and a glass of wine can’t conquer.
But the final heartache in the suck sandwich of my life? My great-aunt Maggie died. The only family member who’s ever gotten me.
Even after death, though, she’s helping me get back up. She’s willed me the keys to a house in the burbs, of all places, and dared me to grab life by the family jewels. Well, I’ve got the vise grips already in hand (my ex should take note) and I’m ready to fight for my life again.
Too bad that bravado only lasts as long as it takes to drive into Huckleberry Hills. And see the house.
There are forty-seven separate HOA violations, and I feel them all in my bones. Honestly, I’m surprised no one’s “accidentally” torched the house yet. I want to, and I’ve only been standing in front of it for five minutes. But then my hot, grumpy neighbor tells me to mow the lawn first and I’m just...done. Done with men too sexy for their own good and done with anyone telling me what to do ever again.
First rule of surviving the burbs? There is nothing that YouTube and a glass of wine can’t conquer.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
518 people are currently reading
18287 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Wolff
144 books12.3k followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Tracy Wolff is a lover of vampires, dragons, and all things that go bump in the night. A onetime English professor, she now devotes all her time to writing dark and romantic stories with tortured heroes and kick-butt heroines. She has written all her sixty-plus novels from her home in Austin, Texas, which she shares with her family. tracywolffbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,707 reviews
June 26, 2021
Disappointing...
I found Mallory's non-stop inner dialogue self-absorbed, whiney and self-pitying and oh so superficial.... Made it hard for me to really care.
I found Mallory's non-stop inner dialogue self-absorbed, whiney and self-pitying and oh so superficial.... Made it hard for me to really care.
August 9, 2021
3.5 STARS
Enjoyed the characters in this one.
Mallory is a thirty-five year old hot-mess who just inherited her Aunt Maggie's hot mess of a house. Aunt Maggie was a hoarder and she also liked to ignore the HOA's many violation letters. Mallory has a lot on her plate!
Have no fear! Hunky Nick lives near and is more than happy to mow her lawn and lend a shoulder to cry on.
Some romance, a bit of spice, cliches, laugh out loud moments too. Its predictable, but a nice summer read and change of pace!
From my own shelf. Read August 2021
Enjoyed the characters in this one.
Mallory is a thirty-five year old hot-mess who just inherited her Aunt Maggie's hot mess of a house. Aunt Maggie was a hoarder and she also liked to ignore the HOA's many violation letters. Mallory has a lot on her plate!
Have no fear! Hunky Nick lives near and is more than happy to mow her lawn and lend a shoulder to cry on.
Some romance, a bit of spice, cliches, laugh out loud moments too. Its predictable, but a nice summer read and change of pace!
From my own shelf. Read August 2021
June 1, 2021
Why am I such a sucker for a "hot mess thirty-something" redemption story?
Back in the Burbs is a laugh-out-loud romcom with a floundering middle-aged divorcee, a charming love interest, and enough amusing antics to put a smile on your face. But don't let its adorable cover and quirky synopsis fool you, there's a lot of emotional baggage here to sift through as well, such as emotional and verbal abuse from an ex-spouse, an eccentric aunt with a hoarding (and mental health) problem, and adultery. I got teary-eyed quite a few times in between laughs due to some unexpectedly poignant scenes, so be prepared to experience a full range of emotions while reading this one.
Back in the Burbs started out as a strong 5 star read for me, but somewhere around the middle, the plot did get a bit convoluted with excess drama I'm not really sure added anything to the story. The ending did wrap up rather quickly, as well. I definitely wanted to see certain plot points conclude with more insight and detail. Still, I did really enjoy this book---mostly because of Mr. Nick H. It's a good reminder that it's never too late to start over, and second chances are priceless.
3.5/5
Thank you Valentine PR for the advanced copy.
Back in the Burbs is a laugh-out-loud romcom with a floundering middle-aged divorcee, a charming love interest, and enough amusing antics to put a smile on your face. But don't let its adorable cover and quirky synopsis fool you, there's a lot of emotional baggage here to sift through as well, such as emotional and verbal abuse from an ex-spouse, an eccentric aunt with a hoarding (and mental health) problem, and adultery. I got teary-eyed quite a few times in between laughs due to some unexpectedly poignant scenes, so be prepared to experience a full range of emotions while reading this one.
Back in the Burbs started out as a strong 5 star read for me, but somewhere around the middle, the plot did get a bit convoluted with excess drama I'm not really sure added anything to the story. The ending did wrap up rather quickly, as well. I definitely wanted to see certain plot points conclude with more insight and detail. Still, I did really enjoy this book---mostly because of Mr. Nick H. It's a good reminder that it's never too late to start over, and second chances are priceless.
3.5/5
Thank you Valentine PR for the advanced copy.
August 31, 2021
Mallory's life has been going from bad to worse ever since she caught her husband cheating. Fortunately, she's decided it's about time she takes charge of her life and stops being everyone's doormat. Unfortunately, she's jobless, low on funds, and the house she inherited in the burbs is in poor condition (and loaded with HOA violations). As if Mallory's life wasn't already a hot mess, her neighbor Nick is a stickler for HOA rules and is immediately on her case about the condition of her new home.
This book started out strong and continued that way through the end. I enjoyed the banter between Mallory and Nick, as well as the depth provided by their backstories and the supporting characters. Overall, this a fun and entertaining rom-com of the enemies-to-lovers trope, with an underlying message about family and valuing oneself.
This book started out strong and continued that way through the end. I enjoyed the banter between Mallory and Nick, as well as the depth provided by their backstories and the supporting characters. Overall, this a fun and entertaining rom-com of the enemies-to-lovers trope, with an underlying message about family and valuing oneself.
May 18, 2021
Mallory is down on her luck, and I mean, hardly anything is going well. This is a rom com so you know things will pick up for her, and that they do, when she moves to the suburbs to live in a house her dear aunt left for her... a bit of a money pit not in good graces with the HOA.
And Mallory meets Nick. And she has the opportunity to truly start over; that reset button we are sometimes looking for.
Back in the Burbs is a quick read. It’s dramatic, with touches of steam and lots of heart, and I loved the characters, especially Mallory and Nick! Best of all, I laughed out loud, and who doesn’t need that?!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
And Mallory meets Nick. And she has the opportunity to truly start over; that reset button we are sometimes looking for.
Back in the Burbs is a quick read. It’s dramatic, with touches of steam and lots of heart, and I loved the characters, especially Mallory and Nick! Best of all, I laughed out loud, and who doesn’t need that?!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
July 7, 2021
This right here is what you call a palate cleanser, kids. You see, after reading something seriously heavy like The Power of the Dog your pal Kelly needs to lighten things up a bit and get the taste of blood and blow out of her mouth. And what better way to do it than a could-easily-translate-to-a-Hallmark-romance-of-the-week type of read. Basically, this book is the equivalent of . . . .
The clichés are age-old. Girl catches husband muff diving. Girl finds out favorite aunt (who she hasn’t seen in ages, natch) has croaked and left her a rundown house. Girl moves to said rundown house. Girl meets a-hole neighbor/head of the HOA who will annoy her/who she will definitely bang. HOARD CLEANING MUSIC MONTAGE!!!! Meddling family. Break up. Make up. Rushed marriage and/or accidental baby (trying not to spoil alllllllll the things here). The end. Oh and it has a cute cover.
The clichés are age-old. Girl catches husband muff diving. Girl finds out favorite aunt (who she hasn’t seen in ages, natch) has croaked and left her a rundown house. Girl moves to said rundown house. Girl meets a-hole neighbor/head of the HOA who will annoy her/who she will definitely bang. HOARD CLEANING MUSIC MONTAGE!!!! Meddling family. Break up. Make up. Rushed marriage and/or accidental baby (trying not to spoil alllllllll the things here). The end. Oh and it has a cute cover.
January 21, 2022
Cringe-worthy to say the least.
Based on all the positive reviews, I’m just going to assume this book just wasn’t for me. Maybe women 35+ only. I just really don’t know.
It is riddled so many unbelievable millennial stereotypes that I often found myself lowering the book just so I could roll my eyes in the most massive way. The constant reliance on wine and coffee was nearly a subplot- a romance between a woman and her borderline alcoholism and caffeine dependency.
The dialog between characters seemed so unnatural. Almost like watching a cheap show on the CW in which all of the characters deliver cringe-worthy lines.
On top of that, the protagonist is going through a messy divorce. You would think that would make the story better in some way, provide some depth. It does not. Her ex is no doubt terrible and emotionally abusive. That much is made very clear. Her mother enables his (ex) behavior, blaming her daughter. I’m assuming this was merely to draw a parallel between her (MC) father and ex-husband, and her mother’s redemption of course. This whole relationship aspect was a mess. To make matters so much worse, after all the build up, readers don’t even get to see the divorce play out.
Maybe this just missed the mark for me, but timeless novel this is not. Needless to say, as a woman in her early 20s, it’s a hard pass. I don’t think I’m a member of the target audience.
Based on all the positive reviews, I’m just going to assume this book just wasn’t for me. Maybe women 35+ only. I just really don’t know.
It is riddled so many unbelievable millennial stereotypes that I often found myself lowering the book just so I could roll my eyes in the most massive way. The constant reliance on wine and coffee was nearly a subplot- a romance between a woman and her borderline alcoholism and caffeine dependency.
The dialog between characters seemed so unnatural. Almost like watching a cheap show on the CW in which all of the characters deliver cringe-worthy lines.
On top of that, the protagonist is going through a messy divorce. You would think that would make the story better in some way, provide some depth. It does not. Her ex is no doubt terrible and emotionally abusive. That much is made very clear. Her mother enables his (ex) behavior, blaming her daughter. I’m assuming this was merely to draw a parallel between her (MC) father and ex-husband, and her mother’s redemption of course. This whole relationship aspect was a mess. To make matters so much worse, after all the build up, readers don’t even get to see the divorce play out.
Maybe this just missed the mark for me, but timeless novel this is not. Needless to say, as a woman in her early 20s, it’s a hard pass. I don’t think I’m a member of the target audience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2021
I wish I can be Back in the Burbs. I always like small town romance. It is my go to romance selection. In Back in the Burbs it is more like chick lit instead of contemporary romance. I do like Mallory. Her world suddenly burned out and kicked her into the curb. Miss Wolff brings a good story how she moved on with her life.
I have to say I can relate to Mallory. After all being a woman who is under appreciated and feel lost in this big big world, it is not easy. I also have this obsession of keeping my house clean at any cost. Nick is a neighbor book boyfriend. He is always there. It took a while for them to finally get their HEA.
Overall a good book. A good book to start my weekend.
4 stars
I have to say I can relate to Mallory. After all being a woman who is under appreciated and feel lost in this big big world, it is not easy. I also have this obsession of keeping my house clean at any cost. Nick is a neighbor book boyfriend. He is always there. It took a while for them to finally get their HEA.
Overall a good book. A good book to start my weekend.
4 stars
March 4, 2022
Back in the Burbs is a story about Mallory, a 35 year old coming into her own after a bad breakup with her cheating husband who’s also her employer. Mallory finds out she has inherited a house in the suburbs from her recently deceased Great Aunt Maggie. The house is in disrepair with numerous HOA violations, an unsafe porch, an unkempt lawn and tonsss of stuff inside.
Seeking a change in her life, Mallory throws herself into this project to get the house back in order and establish her independence as a single woman. Of course, along the way she has to deal with her rule stickler neighbor, Nick, her unsupportive and judgmental parents, her unreasonable soon to be ex husband, and some other surprise encounters.
I felt for Mallory and thought her ex and her parents were awful, however, the number of times she was referenced as drinking wine [and insert resulting actions “because of the wine”] grew pretty old, quickly. Back in the Burbs was a predictable, light read, but also an easy to listen to audiobook — As of 3/2/2022, at the time of this review, this is currently a free listen for Audible members.
Seeking a change in her life, Mallory throws herself into this project to get the house back in order and establish her independence as a single woman. Of course, along the way she has to deal with her rule stickler neighbor, Nick, her unsupportive and judgmental parents, her unreasonable soon to be ex husband, and some other surprise encounters.
I felt for Mallory and thought her ex and her parents were awful, however, the number of times she was referenced as drinking wine [and insert resulting actions “because of the wine”] grew pretty old, quickly. Back in the Burbs was a predictable, light read, but also an easy to listen to audiobook — As of 3/2/2022, at the time of this review, this is currently a free listen for Audible members.
April 21, 2021
4.5 stars.
Back in the Burbs , a new collaboration between Tracy Wolff and Avery Flynn, is a fun, sexy, emotional rom-com about finding the strength to start over and take control of your life.
Mallory hasn’t had a great run of luck lately. Her marriage has ended, she lost her job (never a good idea to work with/for your husband), and she has had to move back in with her parents, who keep denigrating her and make her believe she’s a failure.
When it turns out that her beloved aunt Maggie left Mallory her house in her will, Mallory is floored. The house, with at least 47 HOA violations, is in desperate need of an immense amount of work, and it certainly makes sense to sell it, especially since Mallory has no money for repairs. But despite everyone telling her what to do, for the first time in her life she does what she wants, and moves in to the house.
Of course, the house is even worse than she imagines, and she isn’t prepared for the (incredibly sexy) neighbor across the street to immediately start harassing her to cut the grass. But little by little, Mallory starts to find her way, even when more bombshells explode in her face. (A hunky young handyman doesn't hurt matters either.)
How do you find the courage to start over when so many people—including your family—tell you that you can’t? How do you allow yourself to trust again when your trust and your self-worth have been so damaged? Are you willing to let a good thing pass you by because you’re too afraid of the risk?
I really enjoyed Back in the Burbs and read it in one sitting. It combines all of my favorite elements of rom-coms with family dysfunction and a little bit of steam, and some great characters. I’d go back to the burbs again!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the last decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Back in the Burbs , a new collaboration between Tracy Wolff and Avery Flynn, is a fun, sexy, emotional rom-com about finding the strength to start over and take control of your life.
Mallory hasn’t had a great run of luck lately. Her marriage has ended, she lost her job (never a good idea to work with/for your husband), and she has had to move back in with her parents, who keep denigrating her and make her believe she’s a failure.
When it turns out that her beloved aunt Maggie left Mallory her house in her will, Mallory is floored. The house, with at least 47 HOA violations, is in desperate need of an immense amount of work, and it certainly makes sense to sell it, especially since Mallory has no money for repairs. But despite everyone telling her what to do, for the first time in her life she does what she wants, and moves in to the house.
Of course, the house is even worse than she imagines, and she isn’t prepared for the (incredibly sexy) neighbor across the street to immediately start harassing her to cut the grass. But little by little, Mallory starts to find her way, even when more bombshells explode in her face. (A hunky young handyman doesn't hurt matters either.)
How do you find the courage to start over when so many people—including your family—tell you that you can’t? How do you allow yourself to trust again when your trust and your self-worth have been so damaged? Are you willing to let a good thing pass you by because you’re too afraid of the risk?
I really enjoyed Back in the Burbs and read it in one sitting. It combines all of my favorite elements of rom-coms with family dysfunction and a little bit of steam, and some great characters. I’d go back to the burbs again!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the last decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
July 6, 2021
I don't think I have ever hated a main character in a story as much as I hated Mallory in this one. She was infuriating. She is a woman in her mid-thirties who is going through a crisis after finding out her husband was having an affair. She basically loses everything, but ends up inheriting a disastrous house from her hoarder aunt, giving her a chance to start a new life. I get that Mallory's life has been completely upended. I get that she has baggage to unload, and I'm perfectly okay with that. But this was an entire book of her judging and and complaining and griping at everyone. But maybe she has a good reason for her griping. Her parents are awful. Her soon-to-be ex-husband is awful. She has spent her entire adult life submitting to the will of others and denying herself of anything that she actually wants. She's basically been a doormat for her entire marriage, so I can see why she might be hesitant to jump into a new relationship. I can see why she might be worried about trusting another person. I get it. But what Mallory does in this story is continually freak out at a perfectly lovely human being. What did Nick do? Well, he HELPED her when she needed help. He cared about her. He gave her space when she wanted space. He let her come back to him over and over and over after she had her melt-downs and walked away from him. But to Mallory all of this kindness was a sign of Nick's controlling nature (?????!!!!) What the heck???? It'll be a cold and lonely world we live in if kindness suddenly becomes a sign of oppression. I think this was supposed to be some sort of sign of Mallory's woman-strength. Maybe? But she wasn't showing strength in this book. She was showing weakness ... not the sort of weakness where you submit to everything others impose on you, but the weakness that comes from never trusting anyone around you. Mallory's treatment of Nick was awful, and he deserved WAY better. Goodness ... her treatment of Mikey, just going out with him to get it out of her system, was awful. Like I say, I hated her. So much, and her HEA was not satisfying at all.
The only reason this book gets two stars instead of one is Nick. Nick was lovely. Sure, he is introduced as a grumpy HOA president who harps on Mallory to mow her overgrown lawn. But although Mallory continues to spout her belief that he is a jerk for pretty much 90% of this book, it was obvious that he was a total sweetheart almost from the get-go. He was kind and giving to everyone. He was the most forgiving man in the universe. He was strong when strength was needed, but he wasn't overbearing. Like I say ... lovely. He deserved a way better love story.
The story in this book was disjointed and awkwardly paced. Mallory's family was a piece of work. They caused her tons of trouble through borderline emotional abuse, and yet it's all forgiven in about two pages of story. Slight spoiler ... the secret sister angle should have been a HUGE deal, but Mallory just rolls with it, and it ended up feeling really weird. There were all sorts of dropped plot lines too. This disastrous house seemed impossible to fix, and yet it was magically getting repaired behind the scenes somehow. And then, after the romance between Mallory and Nick goes at a snail's pace during the story, it suddenly takes off like a rocket, and everything wraps up way too quickly.
Finally, I was not a fan of the audio version. Sophie Amoss does a nice enough job, but I thought her voice didn't fit Mallory at all. For some reason I thought Amoss sounded more like a thirteen year-old boy, and I couldn't hear her any other way. She definitely didn't come across as a 35 year-old woman. And this book is marketed as a rom-com, but Amoss does not narrate this with even a hint of humor. She reads it straight, so all the supposed comedic moments fall way flat. I finished the book, so that's something, but it is definitely not one of my favorites. I'm going to be very generous because I liked Nick so much, and I'll give this two stars. It was okay.
The only reason this book gets two stars instead of one is Nick. Nick was lovely. Sure, he is introduced as a grumpy HOA president who harps on Mallory to mow her overgrown lawn. But although Mallory continues to spout her belief that he is a jerk for pretty much 90% of this book, it was obvious that he was a total sweetheart almost from the get-go. He was kind and giving to everyone. He was the most forgiving man in the universe. He was strong when strength was needed, but he wasn't overbearing. Like I say ... lovely. He deserved a way better love story.
The story in this book was disjointed and awkwardly paced. Mallory's family was a piece of work. They caused her tons of trouble through borderline emotional abuse, and yet it's all forgiven in about two pages of story. Slight spoiler ... the secret sister angle should have been a HUGE deal, but Mallory just rolls with it, and it ended up feeling really weird. There were all sorts of dropped plot lines too. This disastrous house seemed impossible to fix, and yet it was magically getting repaired behind the scenes somehow. And then, after the romance between Mallory and Nick goes at a snail's pace during the story, it suddenly takes off like a rocket, and everything wraps up way too quickly.
Finally, I was not a fan of the audio version. Sophie Amoss does a nice enough job, but I thought her voice didn't fit Mallory at all. For some reason I thought Amoss sounded more like a thirteen year-old boy, and I couldn't hear her any other way. She definitely didn't come across as a 35 year-old woman. And this book is marketed as a rom-com, but Amoss does not narrate this with even a hint of humor. She reads it straight, so all the supposed comedic moments fall way flat. I finished the book, so that's something, but it is definitely not one of my favorites. I'm going to be very generous because I liked Nick so much, and I'll give this two stars. It was okay.
March 27, 2021
The best rom-com of 2021. No I take that back the best rom-com I have ever read. I loved everything about this book. Mallory and Nick are the highlight of this book. Hot guy who listens, with a big heart need I say more. This is the only book you need to be reading this spring. I was blown away the last few rom-coms I have read were duds I was not happy at all but I LOVED everything about back in the burbs.
Grab your copy of this 5 star two times right away. I HIGHLY recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
Grab your copy of this 5 star two times right away. I HIGHLY recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
April 7, 2021
This blurb got me wanting more even before I started the book.
I’ve read only one book by Avery Flynn (Awk-Weird) and as for Tracy Wolff? I haven’t been her biggest fan when it comes to her PNR but I have really enjoyed her contemporary romance books.
I really enjoyed reading Back in the Burbs. It’s sweet, fun and made me laugh out loud on so many moments.
Overall, This collaboration by two wonderful authors gave us an equally wonderful romcom!
I really enjoyed reading Back in the Burbs. It’s sweet, fun and made me laugh out loud on so many moments.
Overall, This collaboration by two wonderful authors gave us an equally wonderful romcom!
April 24, 2022
Dnf @ 71%
March 30, 2021
BACK IN THE BURBS is a super funny and cute Enemies To Lovers romance!
Mallory is such a great female lead! She is quirky, hilarious, hard working, and trying desperately to "find herself" in her 30s after a 10-year marriage in which she gave up everything for her spouse and his needs. I loved the character growth we see in Mallory as she starts to stand up for herself with her controlling parents, her ex husband, and her grumpy neighbor.
And Nick is such a swoony grump! You will fall in love with him as his rigid rule-keeping snark begins to thaw and we see the great guy he is.
This book feels like a fairly light read, even as it covers some heavier topics like mental illness and love after loss. And there are so many laugh-out-loud moments that you never feel like this book is overly sad.
This is a slow burn that totally pays off with the epic steamy scenes! These two are Melt-Yo-Kindle Hot!
This book was a great read with lots of humor, some serious moments, lots of steam, and a perfectly sweet HEA.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: cheating ex, fatal car accident, hoarding disorder, gaslighting, death of spouse, death of grandparent, secret family as result of cheating
FEELS-O-METER: 2/5 *Covers some serious topics, but still a light read.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/3rllYhu (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
Mallory is such a great female lead! She is quirky, hilarious, hard working, and trying desperately to "find herself" in her 30s after a 10-year marriage in which she gave up everything for her spouse and his needs. I loved the character growth we see in Mallory as she starts to stand up for herself with her controlling parents, her ex husband, and her grumpy neighbor.
And Nick is such a swoony grump! You will fall in love with him as his rigid rule-keeping snark begins to thaw and we see the great guy he is.
This book feels like a fairly light read, even as it covers some heavier topics like mental illness and love after loss. And there are so many laugh-out-loud moments that you never feel like this book is overly sad.
This is a slow burn that totally pays off with the epic steamy scenes! These two are Melt-Yo-Kindle Hot!
This book was a great read with lots of humor, some serious moments, lots of steam, and a perfectly sweet HEA.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: cheating ex, fatal car accident, hoarding disorder, gaslighting, death of spouse, death of grandparent, secret family as result of cheating
FEELS-O-METER: 2/5 *Covers some serious topics, but still a light read.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/3rllYhu (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
March 25, 2021
From the moment Mallory walks in on her husband in a....compromising position with his paralegal her life went to total shit. Her beloved aunt dies, she loses her job, her apartment AND begins a contentious divorce battle. Enough is enough, right? Aunt Maggie left her house in the suburbs to Mallory and even though it’s a hot mess it can’t be worse than her own hot mess of a life. Until it is, starting with 47 HOA violations and you guys, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This started out super strong and never let up for me, it was hilarious, relatable and a must read for rom com fans.
This was a slow burn in the most delicious manner, Mallory and Nick have amazing chemistry almost immediately, but they’re locked in a fierce battle of wills so think tons of witty banter and lots of heated exchanges. I seriously adored everything about this one and couldn’t find a fault if I tried. Read this the next time you want to laugh your ass off and now I’m off to buy books from both authors because this was that good! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a slow burn in the most delicious manner, Mallory and Nick have amazing chemistry almost immediately, but they’re locked in a fierce battle of wills so think tons of witty banter and lots of heated exchanges. I seriously adored everything about this one and couldn’t find a fault if I tried. Read this the next time you want to laugh your ass off and now I’m off to buy books from both authors because this was that good! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 21, 2021
I did not like Mallory. That's it. And I'm out.
March 25, 2021
3.5 Adjusting To The Plan Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
It s not every day you have to deal with getting your cheating husband to become your ex, somehow now not having your NYC apartment or money or job. All of these things have just taken place front and center in Mallory's life.
And to add more pain and confusion, her Great Aunt Maggie, the only person on this earth who got her, has passed away. Yet, with this happening, it is like Maggie is reaching out to tell Mallory, things will work out, I've got a plan for you...I am giving you my house and you can re-invent yourself there.
Mallory decides to take Great Aunt Maggie's offer and even with the caveat Maggie threw in of it "needing a little work", Mallory is ready to take it on.
Little did Mallory realize what was about to happen...
She was going to go toe to toe with the bane of all home powers, the dreaded HOA. Yes, those people who like to make 67,000 rules over the stupidest things. She also didn't know the cute guy next door would be someone who likes rules and would point out all the things that needed to be done at their first meeting.
This was a fun, sweet, humorous, and heartfelt RomCom that also shared some real stuff about life and the people we love. Not everything we think about our loved ones is what happening...sometimes they may need a helping hand with things but don't want to ask. The life lesson is to reach out and make sure there is no judgment in our offers of assistance.
Back in the Burbs
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* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
It s not every day you have to deal with getting your cheating husband to become your ex, somehow now not having your NYC apartment or money or job. All of these things have just taken place front and center in Mallory's life.
And to add more pain and confusion, her Great Aunt Maggie, the only person on this earth who got her, has passed away. Yet, with this happening, it is like Maggie is reaching out to tell Mallory, things will work out, I've got a plan for you...I am giving you my house and you can re-invent yourself there.
Mallory decides to take Great Aunt Maggie's offer and even with the caveat Maggie threw in of it "needing a little work", Mallory is ready to take it on.
Little did Mallory realize what was about to happen...
She was going to go toe to toe with the bane of all home powers, the dreaded HOA. Yes, those people who like to make 67,000 rules over the stupidest things. She also didn't know the cute guy next door would be someone who likes rules and would point out all the things that needed to be done at their first meeting.
This was a fun, sweet, humorous, and heartfelt RomCom that also shared some real stuff about life and the people we love. Not everything we think about our loved ones is what happening...sometimes they may need a helping hand with things but don't want to ask. The life lesson is to reach out and make sure there is no judgment in our offers of assistance.
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February 4, 2021
I seriously need a good laugh, and Back in the Burbs provided all the laugh attacks I needed this past week. I love Mallory, our main character because she's a hot mess who doesn't yet realize her own worth. Her journey takes a wild detour when in the middle of divorce proceedings from her cheating ex, she winds up inheriting her Great Aunt's Maggie's house.
Having to bulldoze through her Aunt's clutter and collections is quite the challenge, but doesn't compare to getting the multiple Home Owner Association's violations. Cutting grass doesn't seem to be a major task until Mallory manages to do it in such an epic way, I am still laughing over the scene she created!
Characters to love (Mallory and Nick) and hate (Mallory's jerky soon to be ex who really is evil) combine with plenty of opportunities to laugh in this rom-com that has me smiling. Who wouldn't want to read a book that has you laughing your head off out loud? What has me sad? The fact that Maggie is someone I want for my very own Great Aunt and I can't have her!!
Authors Avery Flynn and Tracy Wolf have just the right amount of magic in Back in the Burbs. Magic, you ask? Yes, magic! Chemistry, spice, and comedy combined with interesting and realistic characters (Mallory's parents, her new friend Sarah...).... I am taking all the liberties here by calling that magic! We all know that the authors that have it are rare and should be praised from the mountaintops when they nail a really good novel! This is the case with Back in the Burbs...perfect magic!
Having to bulldoze through her Aunt's clutter and collections is quite the challenge, but doesn't compare to getting the multiple Home Owner Association's violations. Cutting grass doesn't seem to be a major task until Mallory manages to do it in such an epic way, I am still laughing over the scene she created!
Characters to love (Mallory and Nick) and hate (Mallory's jerky soon to be ex who really is evil) combine with plenty of opportunities to laugh in this rom-com that has me smiling. Who wouldn't want to read a book that has you laughing your head off out loud? What has me sad? The fact that Maggie is someone I want for my very own Great Aunt and I can't have her!!
Authors Avery Flynn and Tracy Wolf have just the right amount of magic in Back in the Burbs. Magic, you ask? Yes, magic! Chemistry, spice, and comedy combined with interesting and realistic characters (Mallory's parents, her new friend Sarah...).... I am taking all the liberties here by calling that magic! We all know that the authors that have it are rare and should be praised from the mountaintops when they nail a really good novel! This is the case with Back in the Burbs...perfect magic!
February 7, 2021
I LOVED this romantic comedy book!
This is the perfect quick vacation read! Avery Flynn and Tracey Wolff have created a fabulous mix of comedy and personal growth, along with some super steamy enemies to lovers! The witty banter in this book is on point, and helps keep the action moving.
The characters are phenomenal. Mallory is the perfect lead, broken and downtrodden when we first meet her, but still having that spark of bravery that leads her to tackle renovating her Great-Aunt's house after she is willed it. I think we can all relate to Mallory, at least a little, by having been in a relationship with someone who made us give more then we should have. I love how she slowly gains her confidence back, and her journey is entertaining and full of hope!
The male lead is the perfect counter to Mallory, neat and organized to her sporadic and messy life. I loved seeing them interact, and when they finally get together it's well worth the wait. The supporting character's are fabulous too, from Mallory's parents, to Sarah, and even great-aunt Maggie clearly made her mark in the story, though she's passed on.
This is a fun, warm, hilarious, and ultimately empowering romantic comedy, full of wine, vibrators, HOA's from hell, and lots of heart.
Thank you Entangled Teen for this ebook arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is the perfect quick vacation read! Avery Flynn and Tracey Wolff have created a fabulous mix of comedy and personal growth, along with some super steamy enemies to lovers! The witty banter in this book is on point, and helps keep the action moving.
The characters are phenomenal. Mallory is the perfect lead, broken and downtrodden when we first meet her, but still having that spark of bravery that leads her to tackle renovating her Great-Aunt's house after she is willed it. I think we can all relate to Mallory, at least a little, by having been in a relationship with someone who made us give more then we should have. I love how she slowly gains her confidence back, and her journey is entertaining and full of hope!
The male lead is the perfect counter to Mallory, neat and organized to her sporadic and messy life. I loved seeing them interact, and when they finally get together it's well worth the wait. The supporting character's are fabulous too, from Mallory's parents, to Sarah, and even great-aunt Maggie clearly made her mark in the story, though she's passed on.
This is a fun, warm, hilarious, and ultimately empowering romantic comedy, full of wine, vibrators, HOA's from hell, and lots of heart.
Thank you Entangled Teen for this ebook arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2021
for the most part enjoyable story about 35yo woman building her life again...
taking the points down because of that last conflict by that point I was over heroine inner turmoil
and just wanted to slap some sense into her.. and that last chapter when we met the hero's mom...
Nick are you dating your mom? It sure seems like that to me...
taking the points down because of that last conflict by that point I was over heroine inner turmoil
and just wanted to slap some sense into her.. and that last chapter when we met the hero's mom...
Nick are you dating your mom? It sure seems like that to me...
March 30, 2021
Spoiler alert: This is not just a romance story :) This book is the story of how Mallory got her groove back :) From my perspective, this was more about Mallory taking the bull (her current life) by the horns and standing up for her wants and needs. Nick was a swoony addition in her trail. Together they made a laugh-out-loud, sometimes want to slap them silly, journey :)
Mallory was a hot mess! I mean … xanax martini anyone? LOLOLOL But that’s what endeared me to her. Life just kept on coming for her, but she never quit :) She doesn’t make it easy on the reader sometimes. She is the epitome of the chic you will hate to love/like but you will in the end #trust Her transformation in the unfolding of the story from what/who she was to who she is now is a thing of beauty and will put a smile on your face. It warmed my heart for sure. I will say that as much as I enjoyed all the shenanigans and swoon-worthy experiences in the book, there were times when I skimmed. #sorrynotsorry The book is not short, but the length is duo to wordiness rather than experiences and that just drives me bananas. If you can convey something perfectly well in one sentence, ten is overkill. Feel me? I don’t think I missed a single plot point in this story, but I probably didn’t read about a third *shrug*
I’ve read both these authors as individuals but never as a team and they are seamless and make an excellent writing duo, so props for that!
Mallory was a hot mess! I mean … xanax martini anyone? LOLOLOL But that’s what endeared me to her. Life just kept on coming for her, but she never quit :) She doesn’t make it easy on the reader sometimes. She is the epitome of the chic you will hate to love/like but you will in the end #trust Her transformation in the unfolding of the story from what/who she was to who she is now is a thing of beauty and will put a smile on your face. It warmed my heart for sure. I will say that as much as I enjoyed all the shenanigans and swoon-worthy experiences in the book, there were times when I skimmed. #sorrynotsorry The book is not short, but the length is duo to wordiness rather than experiences and that just drives me bananas. If you can convey something perfectly well in one sentence, ten is overkill. Feel me? I don’t think I missed a single plot point in this story, but I probably didn’t read about a third *shrug*
I’ve read both these authors as individuals but never as a team and they are seamless and make an excellent writing duo, so props for that!
December 16, 2021
Wat een fijn boek! Het was lief, en bevatte meerdere diepere lagen. Mallory vond ik een tikkeltje vervelend, vooral hoe ze Nick maar bleef vergelijken met haar ex. En het was een beetje gek om te lezen over een Nick, terwijl mijn vriend ook zo heet😅 Het einde voelde een beetje gehaast, wat erg jammer was.
Toch ben ik erg blij dat ik eindelijk weer eens een boek uit heb, want dat was al een poos geleden.
Toch ben ik erg blij dat ik eindelijk weer eens een boek uit heb, want dat was al een poos geleden.
March 30, 2021
4.5 Star Review of Back In The Burbs by Tracy Wolff & Avery Flynn
I have read several books by Avery Flynn but Tracy Wolff is a new author to me and I have no idea why that is. From the first to the last chapter one I was fully invested in the story that Ms. Wolff and Ms.Flynn wove.
The writing was strong and the story flowed well. I have no idea which author wrote what or where one finished and the other took over, such was the ease of their writing. It was humorous, emotional, with characters you cannot help but fall in love with.
Inheriting her aunts house holds the key to Mallory getting her life back on track after a horrendous few months. After meeting her extremely grumpy and far from welcoming new neighbour Nick things don’t seem to be improving for Mallory.
However once Mallory and Nick got to know one another the story heated up. As their relationship developed Mallory grew so much and it was heart warming to watch her blossom.
Back In The Burbs is an enemies to lovers story and was an entertaining read that ticked the boxes for me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley
I have read several books by Avery Flynn but Tracy Wolff is a new author to me and I have no idea why that is. From the first to the last chapter one I was fully invested in the story that Ms. Wolff and Ms.Flynn wove.
The writing was strong and the story flowed well. I have no idea which author wrote what or where one finished and the other took over, such was the ease of their writing. It was humorous, emotional, with characters you cannot help but fall in love with.
Inheriting her aunts house holds the key to Mallory getting her life back on track after a horrendous few months. After meeting her extremely grumpy and far from welcoming new neighbour Nick things don’t seem to be improving for Mallory.
However once Mallory and Nick got to know one another the story heated up. As their relationship developed Mallory grew so much and it was heart warming to watch her blossom.
Back In The Burbs is an enemies to lovers story and was an entertaining read that ticked the boxes for me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley
September 26, 2021
Back in the Burbs was a pretty cute romcom to dive into. In it, you will meet Mallory and Nick. She's definitely not living her best life right now but it's all good. She might think she's at her lowest lows but she isn't. Mostly because she's going to meet Nick and everything is going to change for the better.
Trust me.
These two were so freaking cute together. I loved them so much and he was definitely an improvement over her cheating ex-husband. Just saying. I loved Nick's grumpiness because he was really just a soft cinnamon roll underneath. It also doesn't hurt that he really needed some happiness as well. So it was pretty easy to ship these two together.
In the end, some of what happened kind of surprised me but everything else was pretty enjoyable. Definitely happy that I randomly dove into this yesterday and that it was available on audible!
Trust me.
These two were so freaking cute together. I loved them so much and he was definitely an improvement over her cheating ex-husband. Just saying. I loved Nick's grumpiness because he was really just a soft cinnamon roll underneath. It also doesn't hurt that he really needed some happiness as well. So it was pretty easy to ship these two together.
In the end, some of what happened kind of surprised me but everything else was pretty enjoyable. Definitely happy that I randomly dove into this yesterday and that it was available on audible!
April 9, 2021
I really do not know what I just read. Reading Back In the Burbs was like being on a fun roller coaster ride where you are left a bit dizzy and a little out of sorts.
The writing is ranty (yes, that's not a word but how do else do I describe it?) yet witty and filled with pure sarcasm. I laughed or chuckled so often that my husband gave me the side eye on more than one occasion. The characters are all just a little bit eccentric with questionable judgment and loads of baggage. But, I just love the fact Back in the Burbs is a redemption story of a 35 year old women who spent a decade making bad choices that left her at rock bottom.
May we all learn our self-worth and personal power at the rock bottom of a hoarder's house.
The writing is ranty (yes, that's not a word but how do else do I describe it?) yet witty and filled with pure sarcasm. I laughed or chuckled so often that my husband gave me the side eye on more than one occasion. The characters are all just a little bit eccentric with questionable judgment and loads of baggage. But, I just love the fact Back in the Burbs is a redemption story of a 35 year old women who spent a decade making bad choices that left her at rock bottom.
May we all learn our self-worth and personal power at the rock bottom of a hoarder's house.
March 31, 2021
How CUTE is the cover for Back in the Burbs? It honestly makes me long for summer when I can just lay outside and enjoy the sunshine. This book was a bit of hit and miss for me, and for the most part, I did enjoy the storyline. (I also absolutely 100000% loved the hero and would like to keep him with me at all times, but we’ll circle back to that.) Back in the Burbs is a cute, funny, romcom with a 35-year-old heroine (finally!) trying to pick up the pieces of her life and get back on track, and it sucked me in right from the start. I was so excited to be reading about an older (...ish, I mean I’m close in age to the heroine for once but I refuse to call her old) heroine like Mallory that honestly I needed nothing more to start reading. It was also hella funny, and I love when authors can land subtle jokes really really well. (Avery Flynn and Tracy Wolff nailed it, don’t worry).
Mallory, overall, was pretty great. She was funny, she was relatable, and she was a hot mess, but she was still a delight. She had been so beaten down that you wanted her to succeed and so you cheered for her every time she started to stand up for herself. Her tête-à-têtes with Nick, Mister Growly “Measures the Grass”, were absolutely delightful and hilarious and I found myself audibly snorting a few times because the image in my head was honestly just so funny. Their little battles, in addition to the slowwww process of getting to know one another, was one of the best parts of this novel. Those moments were sweet, they were funny, and they were, a few times, kinda heart-squeezing, and those are my favorite.
Back in the Burbs was a really solid and well put together story for about, 65-70% of the book. I’m not entirely sure what happened, but for some reason around that mark things went downhill. I absolutely support a heroine finding herself, but for some reason Mallory became a little too self-absorbed and “woe is me” and I know she went through a lot so she needed time to process, but she was too busy acting like a teenager than a thirty-something year old woman who knew what communication was. It became frustrating watching her continually make certain choices when a lot of her problems could have been solved by being honest, not only with herself, but with the people around her. I won’t say more than that because I don’t want to get too far into it and reach spoiler territory, but I was disappointed in the added (unnecessary) drama of it all.
One of my other issues with this book was that you could tell (more times than I want to admit) that it was written by two different authors. There were a number of continuity and consistency errors that I couldn’t overlook because a few of them actually impacted the story and what I thought was happening because the plot shifted quickly and it was a bit like whiplash. I wish like hell those hadn’t been in the story because I was struggling enough with where the plot was heading that those little errors just made things slightly worse. I think it also impacted the romance of the story, because that fell flat as well. There was so much focus on Mallory and how she was improving upon herself that the romantic side of this book fell to the backburner and then when it did happen it just kind of … happened. I’m all for insta-love, but this wasn’t quite believable because for most of the story they just felt more like friends/neighbors than anything else, and the transition was a bit abrupt.
But Nick. Sweet, sweet Nick Holloway. Talk about a book boyfriend! That man more than made up for Mallory’s faults. The gooiest cinnamon roll of a man with the grumpiest outer shell, Nick was patient, he was kind, he was a neighbor with the best intentions and a hidden superhero cape, and I adored him. He found humor in Mallory when she was completely and unapologetically herself, and honestly, what more could you want? He was an absolute treasure and I’ll probably be gushing about him for the next forever.
I love Nick Holloway.
Overall, this story was cute. I did (for the most part) really have a lot of fun with Mallory. And I love that she was a constant work in progress and doing her best to not repeat her past mistakes. She was endearing and she got to spend time with Nick who, did I mention already I love? Because I love Nick. I know this book is being very well received, and I encourage you to pick it up if you love to laugh and enjoy a story with more mature characters. Problems aside, I’m happy to have met Mallory and, again, I really and truly loved Nick. Very much.
{Many thanks to Entangled Publishing for my review copy of this story!}
Mallory, overall, was pretty great. She was funny, she was relatable, and she was a hot mess, but she was still a delight. She had been so beaten down that you wanted her to succeed and so you cheered for her every time she started to stand up for herself. Her tête-à-têtes with Nick, Mister Growly “Measures the Grass”, were absolutely delightful and hilarious and I found myself audibly snorting a few times because the image in my head was honestly just so funny. Their little battles, in addition to the slowwww process of getting to know one another, was one of the best parts of this novel. Those moments were sweet, they were funny, and they were, a few times, kinda heart-squeezing, and those are my favorite.
Back in the Burbs was a really solid and well put together story for about, 65-70% of the book. I’m not entirely sure what happened, but for some reason around that mark things went downhill. I absolutely support a heroine finding herself, but for some reason Mallory became a little too self-absorbed and “woe is me” and I know she went through a lot so she needed time to process, but she was too busy acting like a teenager than a thirty-something year old woman who knew what communication was. It became frustrating watching her continually make certain choices when a lot of her problems could have been solved by being honest, not only with herself, but with the people around her. I won’t say more than that because I don’t want to get too far into it and reach spoiler territory, but I was disappointed in the added (unnecessary) drama of it all.
One of my other issues with this book was that you could tell (more times than I want to admit) that it was written by two different authors. There were a number of continuity and consistency errors that I couldn’t overlook because a few of them actually impacted the story and what I thought was happening because the plot shifted quickly and it was a bit like whiplash. I wish like hell those hadn’t been in the story because I was struggling enough with where the plot was heading that those little errors just made things slightly worse. I think it also impacted the romance of the story, because that fell flat as well. There was so much focus on Mallory and how she was improving upon herself that the romantic side of this book fell to the backburner and then when it did happen it just kind of … happened. I’m all for insta-love, but this wasn’t quite believable because for most of the story they just felt more like friends/neighbors than anything else, and the transition was a bit abrupt.
But Nick. Sweet, sweet Nick Holloway. Talk about a book boyfriend! That man more than made up for Mallory’s faults. The gooiest cinnamon roll of a man with the grumpiest outer shell, Nick was patient, he was kind, he was a neighbor with the best intentions and a hidden superhero cape, and I adored him. He found humor in Mallory when she was completely and unapologetically herself, and honestly, what more could you want? He was an absolute treasure and I’ll probably be gushing about him for the next forever.
I love Nick Holloway.
Overall, this story was cute. I did (for the most part) really have a lot of fun with Mallory. And I love that she was a constant work in progress and doing her best to not repeat her past mistakes. She was endearing and she got to spend time with Nick who, did I mention already I love? Because I love Nick. I know this book is being very well received, and I encourage you to pick it up if you love to laugh and enjoy a story with more mature characters. Problems aside, I’m happy to have met Mallory and, again, I really and truly loved Nick. Very much.
{Many thanks to Entangled Publishing for my review copy of this story!}
March 27, 2021
My biggest issue with this? Besides the fact that it's really more women's fiction than romance, it's without a doubt the heroine's story... and I didn't like her. She's a hot mess who is so absorbed in her own problems that she doesn't treat the people in her life well. She casually dates a genuinely nice, interested, hot guy for a SIGNIFICANT portion of the book, despite the fact that she knows she's leading him on (not the hero, by the way). She makes such little effort to get to know the hero that we don't know ANYTHING about his past, his feelings, his intentions, etc, until the book is almost over. Until the end, I knew more about HOA requirements and divorce proceedings than I did the hero, which... is not really the way I like my love stories to go. I've seriously enjoyed romances from both of these authors in the past and this is well written, but I definitely had some issues with it.
The story follows Mallory, a 35-year-old woman who is going through a divorce. Looking back, she sees all the ways she went wrong in her marriage, but that doesn't do anything to help her present situation - she's broke, jobless, and carrying around a pile of baggage. So when she inherits a rundown home with a string of HOA violations against it, it's Mallory's second chance at life... maybe. First, she has to get the house (and herself together). The men in her life all complicate that: there's the sexy yet infuriating neighbor who always seems to be around, the hot contractor who should be giving her butterflies, and the soon-to-be ex who continues to weigh her down.
This one is probably going to work better for readers who enjoy women's fiction, because about 75% of the book is focused on Mallory getting her life back together. I really loved the hints of romance that were in this, but they were just too few and far between for me. Plus, Mallory doesn't treat Nick well, and he is nothing but a good guy to her, despite a few grumblings in the beginning. I wanted more Nick; I wanted a LOT more Nick. This does get pretty steamy towards the end and it started to feel more like romance at that point, but it also felt very rushed. I could've done with about a hundred fewer pages about the house and a hundred more about Nick, but that's just me. Like I said, it's well written; these are two talented authors who know how to write a great book, so I'm sure this will resonate with some readers more than others. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this second chance at life story.
The story follows Mallory, a 35-year-old woman who is going through a divorce. Looking back, she sees all the ways she went wrong in her marriage, but that doesn't do anything to help her present situation - she's broke, jobless, and carrying around a pile of baggage. So when she inherits a rundown home with a string of HOA violations against it, it's Mallory's second chance at life... maybe. First, she has to get the house (and herself together). The men in her life all complicate that: there's the sexy yet infuriating neighbor who always seems to be around, the hot contractor who should be giving her butterflies, and the soon-to-be ex who continues to weigh her down.
This one is probably going to work better for readers who enjoy women's fiction, because about 75% of the book is focused on Mallory getting her life back together. I really loved the hints of romance that were in this, but they were just too few and far between for me. Plus, Mallory doesn't treat Nick well, and he is nothing but a good guy to her, despite a few grumblings in the beginning. I wanted more Nick; I wanted a LOT more Nick. This does get pretty steamy towards the end and it started to feel more like romance at that point, but it also felt very rushed. I could've done with about a hundred fewer pages about the house and a hundred more about Nick, but that's just me. Like I said, it's well written; these are two talented authors who know how to write a great book, so I'm sure this will resonate with some readers more than others. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this second chance at life story.
January 26, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
I haven’t met a Tracy Wolff or Avery Flynn book I didn’t like, so when I heard that they co-wrote a rom-com together I jumped on the ability to grab an arc. I am thoroughly glad I did. I haven’t felt so many emotions reading a rom-com since I read The Hating Game. This was that good.
I fell in love with Nick pretty fiercely after realizing he was so similar to Joshua Templeman. What a fantastic love interest! As for Mallory, the MC, I loved her ability to be vulnerable, admit her flaws and still stand strong. This was two very well crafted characters with a beautiful story that happened to bring them into each other’s lives.
I loved everything about this book. From the characters, to the plot, to the seamless ability that Avery and Tracy created to weave their writing together. I loved the concept of a divorcée finding herself and figuring it out as she went. It really was a fun journey from start to finish. It sucked you in and gave you everything you could want and more!
If you need a feel good, emotional, but heartwarming story- pick up this book!
I haven’t met a Tracy Wolff or Avery Flynn book I didn’t like, so when I heard that they co-wrote a rom-com together I jumped on the ability to grab an arc. I am thoroughly glad I did. I haven’t felt so many emotions reading a rom-com since I read The Hating Game. This was that good.
I fell in love with Nick pretty fiercely after realizing he was so similar to Joshua Templeman. What a fantastic love interest! As for Mallory, the MC, I loved her ability to be vulnerable, admit her flaws and still stand strong. This was two very well crafted characters with a beautiful story that happened to bring them into each other’s lives.
I loved everything about this book. From the characters, to the plot, to the seamless ability that Avery and Tracy created to weave their writing together. I loved the concept of a divorcée finding herself and figuring it out as she went. It really was a fun journey from start to finish. It sucked you in and gave you everything you could want and more!
If you need a feel good, emotional, but heartwarming story- pick up this book!
January 27, 2021
Absolutely loved this read. Binge read it in one day and can't tell you how many times I laughed, swore out loud, and cheered. It's been a long time since I cared enough about a book to do that.
Highly recommend if you love adult romance that has some tough topics but really is just about a woman trying to learn from her past and become strong.
Content warning: cheating, some mentions of death, mentions of emotional abuse
Highly recommend if you love adult romance that has some tough topics but really is just about a woman trying to learn from her past and become strong.
Content warning: cheating, some mentions of death, mentions of emotional abuse
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