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Love the One You're With
From USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Peel comes a hilarious second chance romance filled with southern charm and a lot of heart. Please note, this novella was originally part of the Love in the City box set.
Is it love, or is it reality?
Kasie Baldwin’s life is not turning out how she expected. Separating from Jake, her husband of seventeen years, and living back home with her momma were not in her plans. She for sure never saw herself getting mixed up in a reality TV show. And she definitely never thought she’d be breaking and entering into the self-appointed queen of Nashville’s house. Yet here she is. But perhaps all the trouble is exactly what Kasie and Jake need to repair their marriage—maybe, just maybe, their love is the most real thing of all.
Is it love, or is it reality?
Kasie Baldwin’s life is not turning out how she expected. Separating from Jake, her husband of seventeen years, and living back home with her momma were not in her plans. She for sure never saw herself getting mixed up in a reality TV show. And she definitely never thought she’d be breaking and entering into the self-appointed queen of Nashville’s house. Yet here she is. But perhaps all the trouble is exactly what Kasie and Jake need to repair their marriage—maybe, just maybe, their love is the most real thing of all.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2021
About the author
Jennifer Peel
64 books1,467 followersJennifer Peel is a USA Today bestselling author who didn’t grow up wanting to be a writer, she was aiming for something more realistic like being the first female president. When that didn’t work out, she started writing just before her fortieth birthday. Now after publishing several award-winning and bestselling novels she’s addicted to typing and chocolate. When she’s not glued to her laptop and a bag of Dove dark chocolates, she loves spending time with her family, making daily Target runs, reading, and pretending she can do Zumba.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
March 24, 2021
Good story about empty nesters
This couple split up on the way home from dropping their daughter off at college. He was clueless and just didn't appreciate his wife but he did really love her . They are separated a couple of months and at one time she thinks he is cheating on her with a skank from high school but he really isn't. That was kind of a silly storyline but I do like this authors writing . I enjoyed the story but it isn't at all passionate at all..
This couple split up on the way home from dropping their daughter off at college. He was clueless and just didn't appreciate his wife but he did really love her . They are separated a couple of months and at one time she thinks he is cheating on her with a skank from high school but he really isn't. That was kind of a silly storyline but I do like this authors writing . I enjoyed the story but it isn't at all passionate at all..
September 7, 2023
Audiobook update August 2023: The audiobook is fantastic!! The narrator has a wonderful southern accent, it's not too much or overdone. I loved it just as much this time as I did when I read it 2 years ago.
Original review:
Holy Hannah what a story!! Kasie and Jake's only child has just been dropped off at college, and they have to face the fact that their marriage is in need of help. Well, Kasie sees there's a problem, but Jake thinks everything is fine--until Kasie moves out.
This story really called to me. I feel anyone who's been married more than a few years (30 years here) have those times one partner feels they aren't appreciated or maybe under appreciated. That's how Kasie felt. She thought Jake regretted their life together because they had to get married right after high school graduation, and he couldn't go to college. That he's only with her now because he feels obligated.
This story is novella length but it packs so much emotion into those pages. I was right there on Kasie's side while Jake was being such a dimwit. Bless his heart. When Jake finally opened his eyes and realized all he had to lose, I was so happy. I was thrilled that he did more than give Kasie empty promises of how he'd change and things would be different. He showed her he truly meant all the things he'd said. Be still my poor heart.
I don't know how Jennifer Peel does it, but her books grab me from the beginning and keep me interested and invested in these couples for the duration of the book. Somehow she makes me feel what the characters feel. Wow! Kasie and Jake have some smoking chemistry. You might want to keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case your book or Kindle ignites. 🔥🧯
I read this as part of the Love in the City collection; it was the first story I read because it had been too long since I'd had a Jennifer Peel fix, and this certainly did the trick.
Original review:
Holy Hannah what a story!! Kasie and Jake's only child has just been dropped off at college, and they have to face the fact that their marriage is in need of help. Well, Kasie sees there's a problem, but Jake thinks everything is fine--until Kasie moves out.
This story really called to me. I feel anyone who's been married more than a few years (30 years here) have those times one partner feels they aren't appreciated or maybe under appreciated. That's how Kasie felt. She thought Jake regretted their life together because they had to get married right after high school graduation, and he couldn't go to college. That he's only with her now because he feels obligated.
This story is novella length but it packs so much emotion into those pages. I was right there on Kasie's side while Jake was being such a dimwit. Bless his heart. When Jake finally opened his eyes and realized all he had to lose, I was so happy. I was thrilled that he did more than give Kasie empty promises of how he'd change and things would be different. He showed her he truly meant all the things he'd said. Be still my poor heart.
I don't know how Jennifer Peel does it, but her books grab me from the beginning and keep me interested and invested in these couples for the duration of the book. Somehow she makes me feel what the characters feel. Wow! Kasie and Jake have some smoking chemistry. You might want to keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case your book or Kindle ignites. 🔥🧯
I read this as part of the Love in the City collection; it was the first story I read because it had been too long since I'd had a Jennifer Peel fix, and this certainly did the trick.
March 11, 2021
It's so easy to get wrapped up in the life of raising a child, but what happens to a marriage when that child grows up and moves out? Jake and Kasie find themselves in the middle of a marriage crisis when that happens to them and a lot of digging and soul searching helps them figure it out.
True to Peel fashion, these characters battle real and raw emotions that are believable and angsty. I loved the angle The Real Housewives of Nashville played in the story, as it added some drama and entertainment. Why is it that I don't watch reality TV, but love stories that include these types of shows?
The things most worthwhile in life don't come easily and Peel always makes her characters work for their happily ever after. This is the kind of story that plays on a common fear that many women have and delivers a beautiful tale of hope.
This beautiful story is a tug-of-war between real and raw emotions and hope. My heart was in the clutches of this tale from start to finish!
True to Peel fashion, these characters battle real and raw emotions that are believable and angsty. I loved the angle The Real Housewives of Nashville played in the story, as it added some drama and entertainment. Why is it that I don't watch reality TV, but love stories that include these types of shows?
The things most worthwhile in life don't come easily and Peel always makes her characters work for their happily ever after. This is the kind of story that plays on a common fear that many women have and delivers a beautiful tale of hope.
This beautiful story is a tug-of-war between real and raw emotions and hope. My heart was in the clutches of this tale from start to finish!
March 1, 2021
I loved Jake and Kasie! They are struggling in their marriage - with unresolved misunderstandings that have built up over time. I loved the part when Jake realizes that he had a chance to fix things. And Vivian was the perfect villain - wowza!
I loved the cameo by Christopher and Beck (from the Pianos and Promises serise) - that was a fun surprise!
I loved the cameo by Christopher and Beck (from the Pianos and Promises serise) - that was a fun surprise!
March 3, 2021
Read as part of the Love in the City collection
June 24, 2021
I have been in a reading slump. This book was exactly what I needed to get out of it. It was such a relate able story line. No marriage is perfect and they sure have there ups and downs. I have at time had the same feelings Kasie had. Because how me and my husband meet and how quickly we got married. I have worried he married me out of convenience. But we have always come out stronger when we have had our bumps in the road. I am not a big fan of reality shows either they just aren’t my cup of tea. I love how it was apart of the story!
This was such a fun quick read! It will make you laugh, maybe even cry but you may even feel a little bit of heart warming heat as you read! I love how really Jennifer Peel writes and how relatable her books are!! It helps you realize your not the only one who has these feelings!! It ends really great as well! But you will have to read it yourself to find out what happens!
This was such a fun quick read! It will make you laugh, maybe even cry but you may even feel a little bit of heart warming heat as you read! I love how really Jennifer Peel writes and how relatable her books are!! It helps you realize your not the only one who has these feelings!! It ends really great as well! But you will have to read it yourself to find out what happens!
August 25, 2023
Confession. I have a very strong dislike of reality TV shows. I just can't watch them. I was a bit hesitant going into this book because of said show, but I shouldn't have been worried. The reality TV angle was definitely NOT what I was expecting it to be and I ended up loving the book!
Y'all... Kasie is my kind of gal! She's easy to relate to, she keeps it real, she loves fiercely, she protects what is hers and will do anything, and I mean anything, for her family and friends. This woman has a heart of gold! Definitely one of my favorite heroines!
As for Jake... *dreamy sigh* He quickly became a favorite of mine as well! I loved that he not only talked the talk, but he walked the walk. He may have been a putz, but when he finally woke up, he had no problem showing Kasie just how much she really meant to him. Their journey was absolutely beautiful!
And can we just take a minute to talk about the chemistry that was flying off the pages?! YOWZERS! Between Kasie and Jake and Abs and Dallas, I kept turning into a big ol' pile of goo! Y'all. I cannot WAIT for Abs and Dallas's book! I have a feeling it's going to be hot... hot... HOT!
I wasn't going to say anything about Vivian, but I will. Karma. That. Is. All! 🤣
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, Ms. Peel is a phenomenal author. I know the moment I pick up one of her books, I will be held hostage until the very end. Nothing ever gets done when I'm reading her books. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... y'all... I'm in love with these two! What do you think?
Y'all... Kasie is my kind of gal! She's easy to relate to, she keeps it real, she loves fiercely, she protects what is hers and will do anything, and I mean anything, for her family and friends. This woman has a heart of gold! Definitely one of my favorite heroines!
As for Jake... *dreamy sigh* He quickly became a favorite of mine as well! I loved that he not only talked the talk, but he walked the walk. He may have been a putz, but when he finally woke up, he had no problem showing Kasie just how much she really meant to him. Their journey was absolutely beautiful!
And can we just take a minute to talk about the chemistry that was flying off the pages?! YOWZERS! Between Kasie and Jake and Abs and Dallas, I kept turning into a big ol' pile of goo! Y'all. I cannot WAIT for Abs and Dallas's book! I have a feeling it's going to be hot... hot... HOT!
I wasn't going to say anything about Vivian, but I will. Karma. That. Is. All! 🤣
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, Ms. Peel is a phenomenal author. I know the moment I pick up one of her books, I will be held hostage until the very end. Nothing ever gets done when I'm reading her books. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... y'all... I'm in love with these two! What do you think?
March 18, 2021
Kasie and Jake Baldwin got married earlier than planned because their hormones got the better of them and they found themselves expecting a daughter much sooner than they had planned. Needless to say, Jakes's dream of going to college and becoming a lawyer was lost. They marry and he gets a job with his uncle who owns a car dealership. He, Kasie, and their daughter, Maribelle, became a typical family. This story begins as Maribelle goes off to college.
As they were driving home after dropping Maribelle off, Kasie gets to thinking about her relationship with Jake. She begins to think that the “bloom is off the rose” in their relationship. She feels underappreciated and unloved. Before the trip home is finished, she has convinced herself that Jake no longer loves her and that the time has come for them to go their separate ways. Unfortunately, Jake seems to have been caught flatfooted and he does not mount any sort of defense, which does not serve him well and Kasie moves out of their home.
A high school rival for Jakes's affections, Vivian, enters the picture. She is heavily involved in a nationally syndicated reality TV show and has set her sights on winning Jakes's affections, even though she is still married to a prominent member of the Nashville community. Jake finally gets the message and re-discovers how much he really loves Kasie. With eyes now fully opened he goes all out in courting her. The sparks fly surrounding the events of the reality TV show and Vivian’s antics and the action kept me glued to my iPad. Although this is only a novella-sized offering, it really packs a punch.
This offering is Jennifer Peel at her storytelling best. I recommend this novella to anyone that appreciates good, clean romance. Five-stars for Jennifer!
As they were driving home after dropping Maribelle off, Kasie gets to thinking about her relationship with Jake. She begins to think that the “bloom is off the rose” in their relationship. She feels underappreciated and unloved. Before the trip home is finished, she has convinced herself that Jake no longer loves her and that the time has come for them to go their separate ways. Unfortunately, Jake seems to have been caught flatfooted and he does not mount any sort of defense, which does not serve him well and Kasie moves out of their home.
A high school rival for Jakes's affections, Vivian, enters the picture. She is heavily involved in a nationally syndicated reality TV show and has set her sights on winning Jakes's affections, even though she is still married to a prominent member of the Nashville community. Jake finally gets the message and re-discovers how much he really loves Kasie. With eyes now fully opened he goes all out in courting her. The sparks fly surrounding the events of the reality TV show and Vivian’s antics and the action kept me glued to my iPad. Although this is only a novella-sized offering, it really packs a punch.
This offering is Jennifer Peel at her storytelling best. I recommend this novella to anyone that appreciates good, clean romance. Five-stars for Jennifer!
Want to Read
February 26, 2021Nominated for a 2021 Swoony Award, to vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67
April 17, 2021
Needed a quick uplifting read this week, and this one was cute. Is it one that I’d say rush out to read immediately—no. But it was a good distraction from my long days!
February 7, 2022
Jennifer Peel never fails to draw me into her stories. Kasie and Jake are a couple relearning how to love each other when their daughter goes off to college. I love how they forgive each other and learn to get along again like teenagers.
March 18, 2021
Being married to my high school sweetheart and a child in college, there were so many relatable instances in this book!!! Absolutely fell in love with this story!!!
October 1, 2021
Cute plot with a few cuss words and a lot of innuendos about a mid-thirties southern woman who is still reliving high school. Constantly.
April 24, 2021
Cute romance. The reasons for their separation seemed a little trite and lessened the credibility for reasons to get a divorce. I found her complaints a bit tiresome at times but the story was a quick easy read and an enjoyable diversion.
Content:
Sexual: kissing, fade to black bedroom scene and talk of her friend sleeping with a boyfriend
Language: none
Violence: none
Content:
Sexual: kissing, fade to black bedroom scene and talk of her friend sleeping with a boyfriend
Language: none
Violence: none
April 16, 2021
I wanted a fun read and for this I can usually count on Jennifer Peel. And this one was fun for the most part. I am not a fan of reality shows, so for me that was really what hurt this one for me. There was too much unreality mixed in with reality (and too much fluff and glam). I did like the ending with Jake and his future. And most of all I liked that the story is a common one of how marriage often drifts into complacency and how important communication is along the way.
April 15, 2021
Not my favorite for Jennifer Peel. Bummer, I’ll still be excited to read whatever she writes.
Kasie and Jake drop off their daughter to college and they realize over the past few years that they’ve grown apart and Jake didn’t really appreciate Kasie the way she wanted to be. So it was a cute story how they got back together but I could care less for the drama with another character in the book. It was a quick easy read.
Kasie and Jake drop off their daughter to college and they realize over the past few years that they’ve grown apart and Jake didn’t really appreciate Kasie the way she wanted to be. So it was a cute story how they got back together but I could care less for the drama with another character in the book. It was a quick easy read.
September 14, 2023
Another fun romp through Peel Land! I always love a story about a married couple and the choices they make to be happy. Peel handles this with all her typical finesse and humor.
July 30, 2022
Didn’t love this one. I love her romcom style stories. The dramatic ones just aren’t for me.
June 26, 2023
I have some thoughts.
I want to start this off though by saying that I really do like Jennifer Peel as an author, I enjoy reading her books and own a few of my favorites. However, I haven't liked her newer books as much (although I am curious about her new fantasy series).
This was a novella which had me a little hesitant because sometimes things can feel rushed. But this actually wasn't an issue in this case--the pacing was good and it still felt like a complete story despite being so short. But then honestly it just gets super cringey in regards to everything else.
Love the One You're With follows Kasie and Jake, who after seventeen years of marriage, find themselves struggling in their marriage. This story is all about repairing that marriage, which is always an interesting dynamic. But in this case it fell flat.
Kasie, bless her heart, is still living in highschool.
Jake is an idiot for sure that has zero communication skills so it is not surprising that she might feel that way but she is also a grown woman who can communicate HER feelings. I hate this back and forth of misunderstandings instead of grown up conversations! How they lasted for seventeen years is absolutely insane to me--communication is the foundation of any good marriage.
There were a lot of lines that were so cheesy it went from being adorable to making me want to die inside. I'm not a married woman in my thirties so maybe I'm the problem here but talking about everything making her eggs pop out--how they only had one child is wild to me. Jake breaths and Kasie was ready to make a baby ASAP. It just didn't fit the age demographic in my opinion. But that's neither here nor there. Jake however would say things and I know it was supposed to be a tender moment but it only served to make me nauseous.
I do want to take a moment to talk about Vivian because her only personality trait was being a mean girl and I hated that. I know this is a little nit picky because it is a novella so there isn't a lot of time to flesh out characters but her motivations make no sense. Supposedly she's jealous of Kasie (for some reason) and that's it. Vivian is this awful drama queen and everyone hates her. The end. None of her supposed motivations felt legitimate to me and weirdly enough I felt like there was more to her character that we didn't get to see. I really dislike author's writing characters who have no depth, just do awful things to fill a plot point.
One more thing (I promise) is that the whole thing with Vivian made me dislike Kasie a little bit. I hate people who are like "oh they got plastic surgery done" or "oh they seem fake but my romantic partner is more real then they would ever be." Leave your insecurities out of it Kasie--you do yourself a big disservice by comparing yourself (and those around you) to other people and think because you are all that, you are somehow better. It was shallow and immature. Okay rant over.
This was a long review for such a small book but I had a lot of thoughts marinating in my head. There are a couple characters I hope to see books about in the future (Dallas?) but especially I want to see one following Beau, because he seemed like a legitimately good person. He deserves the world.
Content: Sexual innuendo
I want to start this off though by saying that I really do like Jennifer Peel as an author, I enjoy reading her books and own a few of my favorites. However, I haven't liked her newer books as much (although I am curious about her new fantasy series).
This was a novella which had me a little hesitant because sometimes things can feel rushed. But this actually wasn't an issue in this case--the pacing was good and it still felt like a complete story despite being so short. But then honestly it just gets super cringey in regards to everything else.
Love the One You're With follows Kasie and Jake, who after seventeen years of marriage, find themselves struggling in their marriage. This story is all about repairing that marriage, which is always an interesting dynamic. But in this case it fell flat.
Kasie, bless her heart, is still living in highschool.
Jake is an idiot for sure that has zero communication skills so it is not surprising that she might feel that way but she is also a grown woman who can communicate HER feelings. I hate this back and forth of misunderstandings instead of grown up conversations! How they lasted for seventeen years is absolutely insane to me--communication is the foundation of any good marriage.
There were a lot of lines that were so cheesy it went from being adorable to making me want to die inside. I'm not a married woman in my thirties so maybe I'm the problem here but talking about everything making her eggs pop out--how they only had one child is wild to me. Jake breaths and Kasie was ready to make a baby ASAP. It just didn't fit the age demographic in my opinion. But that's neither here nor there. Jake however would say things and I know it was supposed to be a tender moment but it only served to make me nauseous.
I do want to take a moment to talk about Vivian because her only personality trait was being a mean girl and I hated that. I know this is a little nit picky because it is a novella so there isn't a lot of time to flesh out characters but her motivations make no sense. Supposedly she's jealous of Kasie (for some reason) and that's it. Vivian is this awful drama queen and everyone hates her. The end. None of her supposed motivations felt legitimate to me and weirdly enough I felt like there was more to her character that we didn't get to see. I really dislike author's writing characters who have no depth, just do awful things to fill a plot point.
One more thing (I promise) is that the whole thing with Vivian made me dislike Kasie a little bit. I hate people who are like "oh they got plastic surgery done" or "oh they seem fake but my romantic partner is more real then they would ever be." Leave your insecurities out of it Kasie--you do yourself a big disservice by comparing yourself (and those around you) to other people and think because you are all that, you are somehow better. It was shallow and immature. Okay rant over.
This was a long review for such a small book but I had a lot of thoughts marinating in my head. There are a couple characters I hope to see books about in the future (Dallas?) but especially I want to see one following Beau, because he seemed like a legitimately good person. He deserves the world.
Content: Sexual innuendo
July 27, 2023
This was a short, cute little novella. I did have a hang up about it, though: Kasie, our main character. I could understand her feelings that her marriage with Jake had been off for a while. Kasie and Jake had become pregnant before their senior year of high school ended. Jake had to give up his chance at going to college to become a lawyer in order to go to work to provide for his wife and daughter. Kasie always felt that Jake would start to resent her for getting in the way of his dreams. That’s problem number one I had with Kasie: she was always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Rather than believing in her relationship with Jake and that they could work any issue out, she believed that someday she wouldn’t be enough for him.
After she and Jake drop their daughter off at college, Kasie decides that Jake doesn’t love her like he should and that they should separate. While this should be problem number two with her, I actually think that they did need a little break so they could see what they were missing by being apart.
Just as they are about to reconcile, an enemy from their past shows up in the form of a reality tv star who sets to work tearing their already tentative relationship apart. This is problem number two: Kasie believes the reality tv show over her own husband. Granted, the tv show made Jake look guilty, but instead of giving him the benefit of the doubt, as most loving wives would, she immediately discounted his side of the story, again citing how she was never enough for him.
That is problem number three: SHE never felt like she was enough for him. After their separation and before any reconciliation, Jake tried over and over to make her see that he loved her and that she was his world. But she never really believed him. She kept saying that he needed to show her and not just tell her how much he loved her. Kasie really started to get on my nerves with the whole I-wasn’t-who-you-really-wanted thing even though he kept trying to get through her thick skull that she was all he ever wanted. It finally worked out in the end, but, dang, did I want to bash Kasie’s head in a little for being such an insecure and blind woman. If I ever treated my husband the way Kasie treated Jake he would think that I was the one who wasn’t in love. Kasie is lucky that Jake truly did love her, because if he didn’t this story would not have had a happy ending.
Ok, so it sounds like I’m totally bagging on this book. I’m not. Not really. I’m just bagging on how stupid Kasie behaved. A less committed man would have just let her go and not tried to get her back after rejecting his efforts time and time again.
The writing was still great. Jennifer Peel is still a great author. I did enjoy the story, especially when the lousy reality tv star got her comeuppance. That was worth the exasperation I had with Kasie. The supporting characters were fun and I enjoyed how they brought the story together. All in all, it’s a good read, I just wish I hadn’t been so picky about Kasie.
After she and Jake drop their daughter off at college, Kasie decides that Jake doesn’t love her like he should and that they should separate. While this should be problem number two with her, I actually think that they did need a little break so they could see what they were missing by being apart.
Just as they are about to reconcile, an enemy from their past shows up in the form of a reality tv star who sets to work tearing their already tentative relationship apart. This is problem number two: Kasie believes the reality tv show over her own husband. Granted, the tv show made Jake look guilty, but instead of giving him the benefit of the doubt, as most loving wives would, she immediately discounted his side of the story, again citing how she was never enough for him.
That is problem number three: SHE never felt like she was enough for him. After their separation and before any reconciliation, Jake tried over and over to make her see that he loved her and that she was his world. But she never really believed him. She kept saying that he needed to show her and not just tell her how much he loved her. Kasie really started to get on my nerves with the whole I-wasn’t-who-you-really-wanted thing even though he kept trying to get through her thick skull that she was all he ever wanted. It finally worked out in the end, but, dang, did I want to bash Kasie’s head in a little for being such an insecure and blind woman. If I ever treated my husband the way Kasie treated Jake he would think that I was the one who wasn’t in love. Kasie is lucky that Jake truly did love her, because if he didn’t this story would not have had a happy ending.
Ok, so it sounds like I’m totally bagging on this book. I’m not. Not really. I’m just bagging on how stupid Kasie behaved. A less committed man would have just let her go and not tried to get her back after rejecting his efforts time and time again.
The writing was still great. Jennifer Peel is still a great author. I did enjoy the story, especially when the lousy reality tv star got her comeuppance. That was worth the exasperation I had with Kasie. The supporting characters were fun and I enjoyed how they brought the story together. All in all, it’s a good read, I just wish I hadn’t been so picky about Kasie.
August 28, 2023
Heartwarming & Sweet! Great Story & Listen🎧
Love the One You’re With
By: Jennifer Peel
Narrated by: Allyson Voller
This is fabulous, second chance, romantic comedy, has the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and romance. It is my first Jennifer Peel book, and I enjoyed her writing style and the story she created, a story that captivated my attention from start to end. The characters are relatable and easy to connect with, except for one, they were likable too. Kasie and Jake met in high school, and they were each other’s prom date. Both had plans and dreams for the future, but those plans got derailed by an accidental pregnancy. Jake put off going to college, got a job in the family business, and the two got married. The years flew by and their only child, Maribelle, was off to college, leaving them as empty nesters. A part of Kasie felt like she trapped Jake into marriage and a life he did not really want, sure he loved his daughter and probably loved her, but he was not in love with her. She talked to him about it and he did not deny any of it, so she thought it was best that they go their own way while they were young enough to start over. She moved back in with her parents and was heartbroken that he did not fight for her or them. After they split, Kasie watches her rival from High School, Vivian, who is now on the Wives of Nashville reality show, flirt with Jake on television. That puts a fire under and when she gets more information about it, she puts a plan in motion. That puts a fire under and when she gets more information about it, she puts a plan in motion. Was it a smart plan? That is debatable, but it sure was a good one and a blast to watch. This novella sized book packs a whole lot of story, a charming story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face. Jennifer Peel, thank you for this wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Allyson Voller is the star who brings these characters and story to life. She does an amazing job covering the roles for all the characters, giving each their own distinct voice, making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. She sets the perfect tone for the story, handles the witty dialogue with ease and lands the humor naturally. You could hear how much heart she puts into her work as she captures all the characters’ emotions and has you feeling every single one. Voller is a versatile voice artist and an entertaining storyteller and her narration enhances an already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
Love the One You’re With
By: Jennifer Peel
Narrated by: Allyson Voller
This is fabulous, second chance, romantic comedy, has the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and romance. It is my first Jennifer Peel book, and I enjoyed her writing style and the story she created, a story that captivated my attention from start to end. The characters are relatable and easy to connect with, except for one, they were likable too. Kasie and Jake met in high school, and they were each other’s prom date. Both had plans and dreams for the future, but those plans got derailed by an accidental pregnancy. Jake put off going to college, got a job in the family business, and the two got married. The years flew by and their only child, Maribelle, was off to college, leaving them as empty nesters. A part of Kasie felt like she trapped Jake into marriage and a life he did not really want, sure he loved his daughter and probably loved her, but he was not in love with her. She talked to him about it and he did not deny any of it, so she thought it was best that they go their own way while they were young enough to start over. She moved back in with her parents and was heartbroken that he did not fight for her or them. After they split, Kasie watches her rival from High School, Vivian, who is now on the Wives of Nashville reality show, flirt with Jake on television. That puts a fire under and when she gets more information about it, she puts a plan in motion. That puts a fire under and when she gets more information about it, she puts a plan in motion. Was it a smart plan? That is debatable, but it sure was a good one and a blast to watch. This novella sized book packs a whole lot of story, a charming story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face. Jennifer Peel, thank you for this wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Allyson Voller is the star who brings these characters and story to life. She does an amazing job covering the roles for all the characters, giving each their own distinct voice, making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. She sets the perfect tone for the story, handles the witty dialogue with ease and lands the humor naturally. You could hear how much heart she puts into her work as she captures all the characters’ emotions and has you feeling every single one. Voller is a versatile voice artist and an entertaining storyteller and her narration enhances an already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
October 11, 2023
A sweet 2nd chance romance with reality TV
Audiobook version: 4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 5 stars narration
I enjoyed this cute and goofy second chance romance with just kissing. It is set in Nashville and has an authentic southern flavor to the writing and to the narration. Kasie (a lady) and Jake are 35 years old and have been married since they were 18 when they had their only daughter. Now that their daughter is off to college, the distance between the couple is too much for them to ignore.
This short (4.5 hours) romance has heartfelt moments but also crazy and goofy rom-com parts. The first few chapters are sad with Kasie and Jake separating and beginning to live apart. The situation seems very realistic. Then things get crazier and funnier. Kasie’s best friend and her brother-in-law, who are both funny and colorful, join the story. Then Kasie’s high school nemesis drags her into the Nashville version of a rich wife reality TV show, complete with soapy scandals and drama. Kasie and Jake are good, moral people dealing with an outlandish reality TV situation. This book has a happily ever after that was very satisfying.
I loved the narration by Allyson Voller. I did speed it up to 1.2x to suit my ear. She does wonderful Nashville accents and is extraordinary at both male and female voices. She made all of the characters sound distinctive and believable. She has good comic timing as well.
I requested and received a free audio copy, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
Audiobook version: 4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 5 stars narration
I enjoyed this cute and goofy second chance romance with just kissing. It is set in Nashville and has an authentic southern flavor to the writing and to the narration. Kasie (a lady) and Jake are 35 years old and have been married since they were 18 when they had their only daughter. Now that their daughter is off to college, the distance between the couple is too much for them to ignore.
This short (4.5 hours) romance has heartfelt moments but also crazy and goofy rom-com parts. The first few chapters are sad with Kasie and Jake separating and beginning to live apart. The situation seems very realistic. Then things get crazier and funnier. Kasie’s best friend and her brother-in-law, who are both funny and colorful, join the story. Then Kasie’s high school nemesis drags her into the Nashville version of a rich wife reality TV show, complete with soapy scandals and drama. Kasie and Jake are good, moral people dealing with an outlandish reality TV situation. This book has a happily ever after that was very satisfying.
I loved the narration by Allyson Voller. I did speed it up to 1.2x to suit my ear. She does wonderful Nashville accents and is extraordinary at both male and female voices. She made all of the characters sound distinctive and believable. She has good comic timing as well.
I requested and received a free audio copy, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
August 25, 2023
Love the One You’re With
By: Jennifer Peel
Narrated by: Allyson Voller
Yes, I love a good romcom and discovering new authors! This gave me both. Jennifer Peel is new to me and this story had me from the first scene. Smiling, relating and understanding everything made this listen fantastic! Kasie and Jake have been married for 18 years, just getting ready to send their daughter off to college. Now alone in the empty nest, the two split. Yes, every marriage has it's ups and downs, but Kasie doesn't feel the love from Jake and her insecurity has her running. And then the unthinkable happens. Her high school nemesis tells the world in a reality show that she and Jake are getting together. What will become of Jake and Kasie? Oh, the antics this story has. From crazy reality tv to sorting out feelings to trust and love issues, this book is packed with all the emotions. I was laughing, and crying all in a matter of minutes as things came to a head. But Peel gave me what I needed. Characters with true character! I loved this fun novella and highly recommend it!
Allyson Voller is a favorite of mine and she shines throughout her performance. A bit of southern charm instilled, she creates her characters with care. The insecure Kasie, the clueless but lovable Jake and the mean girl Vivian all have the sound I would expect in my head if I was reading the book. Each inflection and nuance brings out all the feelings and her comedic timing is spot on! This is a fun listen!
By: Jennifer Peel
Narrated by: Allyson Voller
Yes, I love a good romcom and discovering new authors! This gave me both. Jennifer Peel is new to me and this story had me from the first scene. Smiling, relating and understanding everything made this listen fantastic! Kasie and Jake have been married for 18 years, just getting ready to send their daughter off to college. Now alone in the empty nest, the two split. Yes, every marriage has it's ups and downs, but Kasie doesn't feel the love from Jake and her insecurity has her running. And then the unthinkable happens. Her high school nemesis tells the world in a reality show that she and Jake are getting together. What will become of Jake and Kasie? Oh, the antics this story has. From crazy reality tv to sorting out feelings to trust and love issues, this book is packed with all the emotions. I was laughing, and crying all in a matter of minutes as things came to a head. But Peel gave me what I needed. Characters with true character! I loved this fun novella and highly recommend it!
Allyson Voller is a favorite of mine and she shines throughout her performance. A bit of southern charm instilled, she creates her characters with care. The insecure Kasie, the clueless but lovable Jake and the mean girl Vivian all have the sound I would expect in my head if I was reading the book. Each inflection and nuance brings out all the feelings and her comedic timing is spot on! This is a fun listen!
August 26, 2023
HOW is it that I hate reality TV, yet always find myself so invested in reality-TV trope-y books? Well, great writing is my guess. This is a clean, super sweet, high-speed (the pace, not the relationship) romance read with lots going on …
💕 Small town vibes.
🎈 Reality TV partial setting.
💕 Second-chance / rekindling vibes.
🎈 Catty enemies / frenemies.
💕 Strong female lead.
🎈 Lovable hero.
💕 ALL the gossip.
🎈 Pure shenanigans.
💕 Very fast-paced.
🎈 No spice, but not exactly ‘wholesome’.
💕 Girl squad.
🎈 Catty in-laws I loved to hate.
Starts out with a ‘back to school’ scene, so for me, it lowkey packed Fall vibes too.
Overall, it was adorable and I’d be open to reading more from this author, based on this experience.
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
Wow—absolutely amazing narrator. She truly made this sound like a ‘full-cast’ narration. ALL the stars. Honestly, I’m not sure I’d have finished this book in digital or print formats—the narrator inserted so much life, attitude and humor though, that I couldn’t get enough. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Overall sound quality is perfect as well. 🦩 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
💕 Small town vibes.
🎈 Reality TV partial setting.
💕 Second-chance / rekindling vibes.
🎈 Catty enemies / frenemies.
💕 Strong female lead.
🎈 Lovable hero.
💕 ALL the gossip.
🎈 Pure shenanigans.
💕 Very fast-paced.
🎈 No spice, but not exactly ‘wholesome’.
💕 Girl squad.
🎈 Catty in-laws I loved to hate.
Starts out with a ‘back to school’ scene, so for me, it lowkey packed Fall vibes too.
Overall, it was adorable and I’d be open to reading more from this author, based on this experience.
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
Wow—absolutely amazing narrator. She truly made this sound like a ‘full-cast’ narration. ALL the stars. Honestly, I’m not sure I’d have finished this book in digital or print formats—the narrator inserted so much life, attitude and humor though, that I couldn’t get enough. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Overall sound quality is perfect as well. 🦩 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
August 30, 2023
A sweet, well written and wonderfully narrated standalone romance. Newly empty nesters Kasie and Jake are looking back at what could have been. Neither seem to be living the life they thought they once would - not to say that life has been bad, just not what either dreamed it would be. Jake is loyal thru and through but doesn't always show his loving side which is causing more than a few doubts with Kasie and if she's the reason he resents the life he's living now. When a reality show and a blast from the past comes along doubts flare like fuel on fire. Can Jake prove that Kasie has always been his dream and after all these years will Kasie believe him? A great cast of characters, I love the narration by Voller which does the southern accent justice. Love that the writing seems true for a southern community - I live in one and can totally see these characters living down the road from me. Cute, fun, sweet romance that will leave you heart warmed and wanting more!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*Review based on the audio version of this read.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*Review based on the audio version of this read.
August 26, 2023
Adorable quick read
This was an absolutely adorable quick read with a lot of feeling. The second chance romance between Jake & Kasie was very heartfelt.
After an accidental pregnancy in high school, Jake & Kasie were forced to grow up fast. And now that their daughter, Meribelle, was off at college, empty nest syndrome was hitting hard. These two had grown apart over the last few years, and it seemed that the end was inevitable.
But fate has other plans, and what brought them back together was something more bizarre than either of them could have ever thought.
It took some groveling and some great acts of love, but Kasie finally believed that she wasn’t a “love the one you’re with” type of girl, & Jake truly loved her deeply.
Audiobook Review:
This was my first listen to Allyson Voller. She did a stellar job embodying all of the different characters and giving them all a distinct different sound. I’m very impressed with the talent.
This was an absolutely adorable quick read with a lot of feeling. The second chance romance between Jake & Kasie was very heartfelt.
After an accidental pregnancy in high school, Jake & Kasie were forced to grow up fast. And now that their daughter, Meribelle, was off at college, empty nest syndrome was hitting hard. These two had grown apart over the last few years, and it seemed that the end was inevitable.
But fate has other plans, and what brought them back together was something more bizarre than either of them could have ever thought.
It took some groveling and some great acts of love, but Kasie finally believed that she wasn’t a “love the one you’re with” type of girl, & Jake truly loved her deeply.
Audiobook Review:
This was my first listen to Allyson Voller. She did a stellar job embodying all of the different characters and giving them all a distinct different sound. I’m very impressed with the talent.
March 8, 2022
3.5 stars
I have a love/hate relationship with Jennifer Peel's heroines. Most of the time I love them and can't believe how forgiving them. But every now and then there's a heroine I want to smack with a book. That would be Kasie, the lead in this book.
I understand her concerns about her marriage, but I almost put the book down when she decided to believe what she saw on a reality TV show instead of believing her husband of 17 years. Still, I know that Peel's endings are always worth reading, so I stuck with the story and kept going. In this story, Jake is very much saint and you KNOW he loves Kasie to put up with her insecurities.
And as I expected, the ending was oh so swoony. Really, no one writes a kissing scene like Jennifer Peel.
Rate PG/PG-13 (a few swear words and sex between husband and wife, though it's not shown).
I have a love/hate relationship with Jennifer Peel's heroines. Most of the time I love them and can't believe how forgiving them. But every now and then there's a heroine I want to smack with a book. That would be Kasie, the lead in this book.
I understand her concerns about her marriage, but I almost put the book down when she decided to believe what she saw on a reality TV show instead of believing her husband of 17 years. Still, I know that Peel's endings are always worth reading, so I stuck with the story and kept going. In this story, Jake is very much saint and you KNOW he loves Kasie to put up with her insecurities.
And as I expected, the ending was oh so swoony. Really, no one writes a kissing scene like Jennifer Peel.
Rate PG/PG-13 (a few swear words and sex between husband and wife, though it's not shown).
March 16, 2021
Such an awesome, heart-tugging, fun story. Jake and Kasie are married and dropping their only child off to college. They married right after graduation senior year and Kasie has felt distance between her and her husband for a while now. She knows he regrets her roping into a marriage he never wanted. He didn’t get to love the one he wanted, so he loved the one he’s with. She suggests they separate, since he doesn’t really love her anymore. He doesn’t argue, which breaks her heart apart even more. And so begins the story of whether they can resurrect their love or not. It’s a great tear-jerker, but with enough comic relief through a reality TV show to give you the laughs for relief. I always love Peel’s books, and this was no exception. Super touching love story and character growth.
August 26, 2023
This one is so sweet! There are some crazy times with good friends too but mostly it is a second chance romance. I enjoyed the couple but was confused as to why they separated. It just seemed to happen too quickly. But the story only gkes up from there. Kasie has some wild friends she goes on an adventure or two with before she get tricked into doing reality tv. Weirdly that could lead her on an uneven path back to her man.
I listened to this on audio. It is a quick listen that has quite a lot happening. I enjoyed the characters and the story. The narratonnis done by Allyson Voller. I had just finished a previous story by her and was WOWed by the difference bocals she pulls off in this one. She does an excellent job!
I listened to this on audio. It is a quick listen that has quite a lot happening. I enjoyed the characters and the story. The narratonnis done by Allyson Voller. I had just finished a previous story by her and was WOWed by the difference bocals she pulls off in this one. She does an excellent job!
September 9, 2023
*Audiobook review*
I wasn't really sure what to expect on this one as I went in blind. I chose this one for the author as I've enjoyed a few of her stories. I assumed it would be a closed door, but I believe it was actually a clean romance. Kasie and Jake have an interesting story that covers the question of "what next" for this couple that had to grow up too fast. It's an interesting subject and the author was able to keep the story fairly light and surprisingly funny. I usually prefer my stories a little more spicy, but I did enjoy this quick second chance romance. Allyson did a great job on the narration and bringing these very memorable characters to life.
I wasn't really sure what to expect on this one as I went in blind. I chose this one for the author as I've enjoyed a few of her stories. I assumed it would be a closed door, but I believe it was actually a clean romance. Kasie and Jake have an interesting story that covers the question of "what next" for this couple that had to grow up too fast. It's an interesting subject and the author was able to keep the story fairly light and surprisingly funny. I usually prefer my stories a little more spicy, but I did enjoy this quick second chance romance. Allyson did a great job on the narration and bringing these very memorable characters to life.
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