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Wait for It
11 hours, 39 minutes
A woman looking for a new lease on life moves to Arizona where she rents a guest house on a gorgeous property with a mysterious owner - a man who teaches her about resilience, courage, and ultimately true love, in this funny, big-hearted novel about hope and healing from New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay.
Stuck in a dreary Boston winter, surrounded by annoyingly happy couples, Annabelle Martin would like nothing more than to run away from her current life. She's not even thirty years old, twice-divorced, and has just dodged a marriage proposal... from her ex-husband. When an opportunity to start over arises, she jumps at it and flees to Arizona for a dream job as a graphic designer.
When she arrives in the Valley of the Sun, Annabelle moves into a pool house attached to a mansion with a mysterious owner. Having assumed her anonymous landlord, Nick Daire, to be some old, rich curmudgeon, Annabelle is shocked when she finally meets him and finds that he's not much older than her and is in a wheelchair. Nick suffered from a stroke a year ago, and while there's no physical reason for him not to recover, he is struggling to overcome the paralyzing fear that has kept him a prisoner in his own home.
Despite her promise to herself not to get involved, Annabelle finds herself irresistibly drawn to Nick. And soon she wonders if she and Nick might help each other find the courage to embrace life, happiness, and true love.
A woman looking for a new lease on life moves to Arizona where she rents a guest house on a gorgeous property with a mysterious owner - a man who teaches her about resilience, courage, and ultimately true love, in this funny, big-hearted novel about hope and healing from New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay.
Stuck in a dreary Boston winter, surrounded by annoyingly happy couples, Annabelle Martin would like nothing more than to run away from her current life. She's not even thirty years old, twice-divorced, and has just dodged a marriage proposal... from her ex-husband. When an opportunity to start over arises, she jumps at it and flees to Arizona for a dream job as a graphic designer.
When she arrives in the Valley of the Sun, Annabelle moves into a pool house attached to a mansion with a mysterious owner. Having assumed her anonymous landlord, Nick Daire, to be some old, rich curmudgeon, Annabelle is shocked when she finally meets him and finds that he's not much older than her and is in a wheelchair. Nick suffered from a stroke a year ago, and while there's no physical reason for him not to recover, he is struggling to overcome the paralyzing fear that has kept him a prisoner in his own home.
Despite her promise to herself not to get involved, Annabelle finds herself irresistibly drawn to Nick. And soon she wonders if she and Nick might help each other find the courage to embrace life, happiness, and true love.
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First published August 10, 2021
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About the author
Jenn McKinlay
69 books5,236 followersJenn is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of several mystery and romance series. She is also the winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award for romantic comedy and the Fresh Fiction award for best cozy mystery. A TEDx speaker, she is always happy to talk books, writing, reading, and the creative process to anyone who cares to listen. She lives in sunny Arizona in a house that is overrun with books, pets, and her husband’s guitars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,666 reviews
November 13, 2022
Happy book birthday to one of my favorite romance novels of this year! 🥰🎈🥳🥂
I loved this book more than I expected. It started like an entertaining, sweet rom-com but as I start knowing more about the characters and back stories, I easily connect with both of them. And the tone of the book got more serious with traumatic experiences, sensitive issues like stroke, drug addiction, abuse at work etc.
The characters were so easy to love: Both of them made so many mistakes in their lives, suffering from loss, personal traumas and but now both of them confront their fears to start over!
It’s lovely sunshine meets the grump troupe with enemies to lovers premise.
Annabella Martin is definition of ball of fire meets pocketful of sunshine. She is vivid, bold, reckless, risk taker, a brilliant artist. But she made a few bad choices in her personal life including two marriages ended with divorce. At age 28, she’s freelancer graphic designer, having a friends with benefits relationship with her ex Jeremy but the same day she celebrates her divorce at their unanniversary dinner, she gets job offer from her best friend Sophia who founded graphic design studio with her husband Miguel, living in Phoenix. She wants her to become their creative director. This means she has to love from Boston to start fresh. The sudden offer startles her and she tells Sophia she’ll think about it!
When her ex decides to propose at their un-anniversary dinner, for shutting him up she blurts out she accepted the job offer but she also accidentally swallows diamond ring he hid in her champagne flute. Sorry Annabella! This was literally sh*tty start for your journey!
When she rents a guest house at a mansion of retired business mogul Nick Daire, she gets intrigued by the mysterious man who writes daily notes to her about the restrictions about the house. She assumes she’s living at the same place with old, unhappy curmudgeon which challenges her more to meet him!
But Nick Daire is not the only challenge in her life. Mansplaining Carson who is also Miguel’s best friend is after her job, watching her like hawk, trying to find her mistakes to humiliate her in front of the coworkers.
But Annabella has no intention to get scared so easily. She is adamant to do whatever it takes to keep her job and confront with her landlord.
But Nick Daire is not who she thinks. He’s only 36, nearly one year ago he had cerebrovascular accident which means he had a stroke which changed his life completely. Residual damage from the stoke impeded his ability to walk or think. For the six months he picked himself off the floor, using his wheelchair. And now he’s still suffering from panic attacks , scaring to have another stroke, trapped in his own house. His only connections are his trainer Jackson he keeps calling brother and his caretaker couple.
His estranged sister’s coming back to his life after 20 years they got separated by foster parents startles him just like her nosy, goddess new tenant who writes witty notes to him and leaves at his door!
Annabella’s insistence to interfere his life caught him off guard but he realizes he cannot resist her charms. He never had relationship more than three months and now when he is emotionally and physically restrained, can he have a chance to form an appropriate relationship with her?
Could they help each other to face their inner fears?
At first less connection of MCs get me a little bothered. Nearly the second half of the book, they didn’t have face to face contact. But this story is more than romance. It is about inner growth, learning to change, facing your inner demons. I liked the sarcastic, entertaining tone and emotional depth of author’s writing. I liked both MCs and Jackson was amazing supporting character! A best bro you can have!
I was planning to give 4 stars but Nick’s back story and his emotional inner fight affected me more than I expected so I’m rounding up 4.5 stars to 5! Yes, I loved this book so much!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
I loved this book more than I expected. It started like an entertaining, sweet rom-com but as I start knowing more about the characters and back stories, I easily connect with both of them. And the tone of the book got more serious with traumatic experiences, sensitive issues like stroke, drug addiction, abuse at work etc.
The characters were so easy to love: Both of them made so many mistakes in their lives, suffering from loss, personal traumas and but now both of them confront their fears to start over!
It’s lovely sunshine meets the grump troupe with enemies to lovers premise.
Annabella Martin is definition of ball of fire meets pocketful of sunshine. She is vivid, bold, reckless, risk taker, a brilliant artist. But she made a few bad choices in her personal life including two marriages ended with divorce. At age 28, she’s freelancer graphic designer, having a friends with benefits relationship with her ex Jeremy but the same day she celebrates her divorce at their unanniversary dinner, she gets job offer from her best friend Sophia who founded graphic design studio with her husband Miguel, living in Phoenix. She wants her to become their creative director. This means she has to love from Boston to start fresh. The sudden offer startles her and she tells Sophia she’ll think about it!
When her ex decides to propose at their un-anniversary dinner, for shutting him up she blurts out she accepted the job offer but she also accidentally swallows diamond ring he hid in her champagne flute. Sorry Annabella! This was literally sh*tty start for your journey!
When she rents a guest house at a mansion of retired business mogul Nick Daire, she gets intrigued by the mysterious man who writes daily notes to her about the restrictions about the house. She assumes she’s living at the same place with old, unhappy curmudgeon which challenges her more to meet him!
But Nick Daire is not the only challenge in her life. Mansplaining Carson who is also Miguel’s best friend is after her job, watching her like hawk, trying to find her mistakes to humiliate her in front of the coworkers.
But Annabella has no intention to get scared so easily. She is adamant to do whatever it takes to keep her job and confront with her landlord.
But Nick Daire is not who she thinks. He’s only 36, nearly one year ago he had cerebrovascular accident which means he had a stroke which changed his life completely. Residual damage from the stoke impeded his ability to walk or think. For the six months he picked himself off the floor, using his wheelchair. And now he’s still suffering from panic attacks , scaring to have another stroke, trapped in his own house. His only connections are his trainer Jackson he keeps calling brother and his caretaker couple.
His estranged sister’s coming back to his life after 20 years they got separated by foster parents startles him just like her nosy, goddess new tenant who writes witty notes to him and leaves at his door!
Annabella’s insistence to interfere his life caught him off guard but he realizes he cannot resist her charms. He never had relationship more than three months and now when he is emotionally and physically restrained, can he have a chance to form an appropriate relationship with her?
Could they help each other to face their inner fears?
At first less connection of MCs get me a little bothered. Nearly the second half of the book, they didn’t have face to face contact. But this story is more than romance. It is about inner growth, learning to change, facing your inner demons. I liked the sarcastic, entertaining tone and emotional depth of author’s writing. I liked both MCs and Jackson was amazing supporting character! A best bro you can have!
I was planning to give 4 stars but Nick’s back story and his emotional inner fight affected me more than I expected so I’m rounding up 4.5 stars to 5! Yes, I loved this book so much!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
August 23, 2021
There is nothing more important to me than judging books by their covers.
I firmly believe that it is my god-given right to exist on this planet reading only things that are pretty. And the fact that the point of that expression is that covers often belie their contents is the bane of my existence. Every time I read a pretty book and am disappointed, it takes a year off my life and one percent off my happiness.
So here we are. Dying younger and living sadder. Because this was...not a good read for me.
This is a misogynistic, poorly written Me Before You. Minus the ending.
There is so much to not be a fan of here.
Such as...
All the background characters being stereotype-based POC (A “huge black man.” A “tall black man” who is a drag queen. A Latinx married couple who are a housekeeper and gardener respectively.)
The love interest's nickname for the protagonist being..."goddess.
The most randomly inserted I love you of all time.
An insanely unbelievable and unprofessional work “subplot” that is probably the actual plot more than the romance is.
And probably the cheesiest ending to a book I have ever read in my life. If you read this book, read it only so you can get to that ending and talk to me about it, please.
Bottom line: This is a probably well-meaning but still all-time-worst-executed book.
Note: I read an advance copy of this book. Details are subject to change.
---------------
challenging myself to read as many review copies as possible this month because i'm addicted to projects!
ARC 1: spaceman of bohemia
ARC 2: in search of us
ARC 3: aerialists
ARC 4: the sound of drowning
ARC 5: unleaving
ARC 6: the other side of luck
ARC 7: romanov
ARC 8: the storm keeper's island
ARC 9: gut check
ARC 10: when force meets fate
ARC 11: sisters in hate
ARC 12: before i disappear
ARC 13: big time
ARC 14: stolen science
ARC 15: have a little faith in me
ARC 16: invitation to a bonfire
ARC 17: the splendor
ARC 18: how to be luminous
ARC 19: the little women cookbook
ARC 20: while we were dating
ARC 21: the lost girls
ARC 22: wait for it
I firmly believe that it is my god-given right to exist on this planet reading only things that are pretty. And the fact that the point of that expression is that covers often belie their contents is the bane of my existence. Every time I read a pretty book and am disappointed, it takes a year off my life and one percent off my happiness.
So here we are. Dying younger and living sadder. Because this was...not a good read for me.
This is a misogynistic, poorly written Me Before You. Minus the ending.
There is so much to not be a fan of here.
Such as...
All the background characters being stereotype-based POC (A “huge black man.” A “tall black man” who is a drag queen. A Latinx married couple who are a housekeeper and gardener respectively.)
The love interest's nickname for the protagonist being..."goddess.
The most randomly inserted I love you of all time.
An insanely unbelievable and unprofessional work “subplot” that is probably the actual plot more than the romance is.
And probably the cheesiest ending to a book I have ever read in my life. If you read this book, read it only so you can get to that ending and talk to me about it, please.
Bottom line: This is a probably well-meaning but still all-time-worst-executed book.
Note: I read an advance copy of this book. Details are subject to change.
---------------
challenging myself to read as many review copies as possible this month because i'm addicted to projects!
ARC 1: spaceman of bohemia
ARC 2: in search of us
ARC 3: aerialists
ARC 4: the sound of drowning
ARC 5: unleaving
ARC 6: the other side of luck
ARC 7: romanov
ARC 8: the storm keeper's island
ARC 9: gut check
ARC 10: when force meets fate
ARC 11: sisters in hate
ARC 12: before i disappear
ARC 13: big time
ARC 14: stolen science
ARC 15: have a little faith in me
ARC 16: invitation to a bonfire
ARC 17: the splendor
ARC 18: how to be luminous
ARC 19: the little women cookbook
ARC 20: while we were dating
ARC 21: the lost girls
ARC 22: wait for it
November 16, 2022
"Nothing makes me doubt my own decisions more than other people telling me that I'm doing the right thing. It's as if their approval is a red flag warning me away from logic and reason. I think it's my freewheeling impulsive nature that rejects positive reinforcement, as if because people approve of what I'm doing, then surely I must be mistaken."
This was a fantastic comfort read. I had a blast buddy reading it with Amy @novelgossip, and we found the mixture of romance, workplace drama, and discussions surrounding mental health to be refreshing and balanced. A bit predictable, but in a good way.
If you're looking for:
✔️ Medium level steam
✔️ Low level angst
✔️ Lots of laughs
✔️ Grumpy/Sunshine trope
You should pick up Wait for It immediately!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
This was a fantastic comfort read. I had a blast buddy reading it with Amy @novelgossip, and we found the mixture of romance, workplace drama, and discussions surrounding mental health to be refreshing and balanced. A bit predictable, but in a good way.
If you're looking for:
✔️ Medium level steam
✔️ Low level angst
✔️ Lots of laughs
✔️ Grumpy/Sunshine trope
You should pick up Wait for It immediately!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
April 18, 2023
2nd read. 4⭐️
I just had to delete my old review because I cringed too much. However, from what I read, it seemed I like it a little less now but still left it at the same rating. It’s still a really cute read filled with some lessons we can all use!
Annabelle is definitely someone I would want to be friends with. She is fun and free-spirited, yet is still very much human with her unique flaws. I thought Nick was alright though. He has definitely been through a lot and that is clear from every time he gets book time. I really enjoyed that they both had things going on that were separate from their romance. McKinlay actually allows the characters to get a lot more before they even meet which I usually am a fan of! I did feel it was a bit of insta love but not as bad as some other books.
All the characters in this book were all great. I didn’t feel like their roles in this book were unnecessary. I definitely didn't remember as much as I thought I did so it did feel a little bit like reading it for the first time. I would recommend it if you are a fan of these sunshine grump tropes.
I just had to delete my old review because I cringed too much. However, from what I read, it seemed I like it a little less now but still left it at the same rating. It’s still a really cute read filled with some lessons we can all use!
Annabelle is definitely someone I would want to be friends with. She is fun and free-spirited, yet is still very much human with her unique flaws. I thought Nick was alright though. He has definitely been through a lot and that is clear from every time he gets book time. I really enjoyed that they both had things going on that were separate from their romance. McKinlay actually allows the characters to get a lot more before they even meet which I usually am a fan of! I did feel it was a bit of insta love but not as bad as some other books.
All the characters in this book were all great. I didn’t feel like their roles in this book were unnecessary. I definitely didn't remember as much as I thought I did so it did feel a little bit like reading it for the first time. I would recommend it if you are a fan of these sunshine grump tropes.
June 2, 2021
This was 100% a case of “the cover made me do it.” There’s no denying I’m a sucker for a cartoony cover and with the three-day weekend upon me I jumped all over this one and dreams of sitting poolside (while it was 40 degrees and pouring down rain where I live). Unfortunately, Wait for It fits the 2 Star “It Was Okay” rating to a tee.
Freelancer Annabelle takes a six month position as the creative director for her best friend’s company after dodging a proposal from her (second) ex-husband. Relocating from the frigid Boston winter to Phoenix is just the change of scenery she might be looking for. But getting used to corporate dynamics when she’s been self-employed for so long and getting used to being a tenant of a curmudgeonly landlord with an endless list of rules has her thinking this will definitely be a six months and out stint. Until she actually meets said landlord and the sparks fly.
Okay, this was a quick read, but there are just some things that didn’t work for me:
1. The nickname “Goddess”????
Yeah, never.
2. The work stuff and smarmy Carson was good reading, but JFC Annabelle. You are nearly 30 and can’t get your ass to work on time. Like EVER????
That is probably my biggest pet peeve about office life. Set your alarm, get your ass out of bed and get to work. Yeah once in a while there might be an accident on the highway that delays your commute, but the other 99.99999% of the time? You are simply an asshole who gives zero shit about taking advantage of your co-workers.
3. WARNING – THIS ONE IS SPOILSIE. You have been married TWICE at 28 and you’re going to say yes to a proposal to a guy you pretty much just banged for a couple of months and don’t really know all that well . . . .
I know people are into the happily ever, but I am a reader who is perfectly okay with a “happily for now.” I’m pretty sure I have a cozy mystery by this author sitting in one of my stacks of shame of unread ARCs. I have a feeling that will be a better fit for me.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
Freelancer Annabelle takes a six month position as the creative director for her best friend’s company after dodging a proposal from her (second) ex-husband. Relocating from the frigid Boston winter to Phoenix is just the change of scenery she might be looking for. But getting used to corporate dynamics when she’s been self-employed for so long and getting used to being a tenant of a curmudgeonly landlord with an endless list of rules has her thinking this will definitely be a six months and out stint. Until she actually meets said landlord and the sparks fly.
Okay, this was a quick read, but there are just some things that didn’t work for me:
1. The nickname “Goddess”????
Yeah, never.
2. The work stuff and smarmy Carson was good reading, but JFC Annabelle. You are nearly 30 and can’t get your ass to work on time. Like EVER????
That is probably my biggest pet peeve about office life. Set your alarm, get your ass out of bed and get to work. Yeah once in a while there might be an accident on the highway that delays your commute, but the other 99.99999% of the time? You are simply an asshole who gives zero shit about taking advantage of your co-workers.
3. WARNING – THIS ONE IS SPOILSIE. You have been married TWICE at 28 and you’re going to say yes to a proposal to a guy you pretty much just banged for a couple of months and don’t really know all that well . . . .
I know people are into the happily ever, but I am a reader who is perfectly okay with a “happily for now.” I’m pretty sure I have a cozy mystery by this author sitting in one of my stacks of shame of unread ARCs. I have a feeling that will be a better fit for me.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
October 13, 2022
4 stars
Needing a fresh start and to get away from the Boston cold and her ex-husband, Annabelle takes a job working for her best friend in Phoenix, Arizona. Upon arrival her bestie found Annabelle a place to live through her husband in a pool house attached to a mansion with a grumpy landlord. Based on all the cranky notes she receives from her landlord, she assumes he’s a curmudgeonly old man. But she soon finds out Nick is a young man who suffered a strong at 35 and is afraid to leave his home.
I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I would. The beginning was pretty slow with a lot of exposition about Annabelle’s job and Nick not wanting to leave his home. But it made sense for where the story ended up going the pacing was just off a little bit. I really liked Annabelle as a quirky heroine, except her problem with being late it wasn’t cute but more rude to me. But her love of art, how she handled things at her job and her hijinks were all fun. Nick was a great brooding hero but I honestly think he needed way more therapy than what we saw in the book (and not PT which he had enough of).
Throughout reading I was very invested in what happened to the characters and wanted to know what happened next.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Needing a fresh start and to get away from the Boston cold and her ex-husband, Annabelle takes a job working for her best friend in Phoenix, Arizona. Upon arrival her bestie found Annabelle a place to live through her husband in a pool house attached to a mansion with a grumpy landlord. Based on all the cranky notes she receives from her landlord, she assumes he’s a curmudgeonly old man. But she soon finds out Nick is a young man who suffered a strong at 35 and is afraid to leave his home.
I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I would. The beginning was pretty slow with a lot of exposition about Annabelle’s job and Nick not wanting to leave his home. But it made sense for where the story ended up going the pacing was just off a little bit. I really liked Annabelle as a quirky heroine, except her problem with being late it wasn’t cute but more rude to me. But her love of art, how she handled things at her job and her hijinks were all fun. Nick was a great brooding hero but I honestly think he needed way more therapy than what we saw in the book (and not PT which he had enough of).
Throughout reading I was very invested in what happened to the characters and wanted to know what happened next.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
January 17, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Library Book 📕
Grumpy/Sunshine Trope. I would have probably given this four stars, because I did enjoy the storyline, but the way Nick talks is very offensive at times.
Grumpy/Sunshine Trope. I would have probably given this four stars, because I did enjoy the storyline, but the way Nick talks is very offensive at times.
January 20, 2022
I will be the first to tell you that I do not have a long history as a romance reader. So when I am disappointed by a romance novel, I'm never sure if it's because I'm less well-versed in the tropes and conventions of the genre or if it's because something is off with the book itself. I always feel like I need to caveat any less-than-glowing reviews.
But, also, I just didn't like this book that much.
It is about Annabelle, a twice-divorced 28-year-old woman who responds to a proposal from her first ex-husband by accepting a job offer that requires a move from Boston to Phoenix. Her best friend/new boss arranges a short-term rental for her in a guest house owned by Nick, a real estate developer who retired and has largely withdrawn from the world after suffering a stroke. In between Annabelle's work drama and Nick's family drama, the two eventually strike up a romantic relationship.
There's a couple of different issues with this book, but the main one is that there are just way too many plots. Annabelle has to deal with a coworker trying to sabotage her because he thinks she stole his promotion, there's discord between Sophie and Miguel (the husband and wife team that run the company), Nick struggles to recover from his stroke, and his relationship with the long-lost sister that shows up out of the blue looking for help on a business project (as well as the traumatic family history that comes with that situation). And Nick is a cranky landlord with lots of rules that Annabelle wants to flout.
Maybe because of this excess, the slow burn romance here is waaaaay too slow and then quickly pivots to hyperspeed. Annabelle and Nick don't even meet until more than halfway through the books. Knowing just that he is retired and cranky, she assumes he is an older man. Surprise! He's super hot. But he's also way too cranky for me to find him even remotely likable as a romantic interest, so when they almost immediately start to fall for each other, it reads to me as being based on nothing other than horniness.
A book based on people getting together because they're horny is fine, I am ALL FOR erotica and everyone consensually getting theirs, but not when the book is also trying to convince you that these two belong together in a more romantic, long-term way. I need something other than Annabelle's compulsive need to fix people and Nick thinking she looks like a "goddess."
And the ending? I wanted to roll my eyes until they fell out of my head.
Also, I can't believe I have to say this in the 21st goddamn century, but it's not romantic for a man to tell a woman "I don't share well and until this thing between us is done, you're mine" in response to her having a conversation with another man who isn't there for anything even remotely sexual. It's possessive and gross and the more I think about this book, the more it pisses me off.
But, also, I just didn't like this book that much.
It is about Annabelle, a twice-divorced 28-year-old woman who responds to a proposal from her first ex-husband by accepting a job offer that requires a move from Boston to Phoenix. Her best friend/new boss arranges a short-term rental for her in a guest house owned by Nick, a real estate developer who retired and has largely withdrawn from the world after suffering a stroke. In between Annabelle's work drama and Nick's family drama, the two eventually strike up a romantic relationship.
There's a couple of different issues with this book, but the main one is that there are just way too many plots. Annabelle has to deal with a coworker trying to sabotage her because he thinks she stole his promotion, there's discord between Sophie and Miguel (the husband and wife team that run the company), Nick struggles to recover from his stroke, and his relationship with the long-lost sister that shows up out of the blue looking for help on a business project (as well as the traumatic family history that comes with that situation). And Nick is a cranky landlord with lots of rules that Annabelle wants to flout.
Maybe because of this excess, the slow burn romance here is waaaaay too slow and then quickly pivots to hyperspeed. Annabelle and Nick don't even meet until more than halfway through the books. Knowing just that he is retired and cranky, she assumes he is an older man. Surprise! He's super hot. But he's also way too cranky for me to find him even remotely likable as a romantic interest, so when they almost immediately start to fall for each other, it reads to me as being based on nothing other than horniness.
A book based on people getting together because they're horny is fine, I am ALL FOR erotica and everyone consensually getting theirs, but not when the book is also trying to convince you that these two belong together in a more romantic, long-term way. I need something other than Annabelle's compulsive need to fix people and Nick thinking she looks like a "goddess."
And the ending? I wanted to roll my eyes until they fell out of my head.
Also, I can't believe I have to say this in the 21st goddamn century, but it's not romantic for a man to tell a woman "I don't share well and until this thing between us is done, you're mine" in response to her having a conversation with another man who isn't there for anything even remotely sexual. It's possessive and gross and the more I think about this book, the more it pisses me off.
August 11, 2021
I have to stop chasing People We Meet On Vacation high, pretty cover but all in all just fine book.
August 1, 2021
So much love for this one! A feel good delightful romance!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was such a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed all of it!
The author developed a fabulous plot that was fun to read and so realistic. The characters were a delight and I loved the balance that she created with Nick and Annabelle.
Not only do we get the personal aspect between the characters but we also get the work-life aspect too. McKinlay beautifully creates a story that adds so many different layers – fun, sexy, quirky, heartful, emotional. She hits all of the hot spots we look for in a complex multi-dimensional read.
This book was a surprise for me as a new reader of her stories. Wait For It is definitely a book and an author that I will read again!
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/wait-for-it-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was such a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed all of it!
The author developed a fabulous plot that was fun to read and so realistic. The characters were a delight and I loved the balance that she created with Nick and Annabelle.
Not only do we get the personal aspect between the characters but we also get the work-life aspect too. McKinlay beautifully creates a story that adds so many different layers – fun, sexy, quirky, heartful, emotional. She hits all of the hot spots we look for in a complex multi-dimensional read.
This book was a surprise for me as a new reader of her stories. Wait For It is definitely a book and an author that I will read again!
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/wait-for-it-...
August 11, 2021
✨ escaping to Arizona to sip margaritas by the pool and fall in love with my grump neighbor sounds like a great idea right about now ✨
This book, though at first I feared had a basic plot, was so entertaining and unique. If you are looking for the perfect beach read, palette cleanser, or reassurance that you aren’t a total hot mess, this book is perfect for you.
Tropes:
🙌🏼 grump-sunshine
🏠 neighbor/landlord romance
💰 rich hero
🤦🏽♀️ hot mess heroine
🔥 slow burn
🗣 banter
When I had gone into this book, I thought I was going into a women’s fiction wrapped up in a rouse of a rom-com. However, I was pleasantly surprised to be wrong 😊
This book was a mature yet sweet rom-com that excellently death with deeper, serious issues. Someone looking for a beach read that isn’t necessarily light and fluffy would love this book. I really enjoyed the multiple topics the book dealt with. Annabelle’s toxic co-worker plot really struck a chord with me, and Nick’s dealing with stroke made for a great read.
Though I will say, I felt he conflicts got dragged on a little too long. It did take away the from enjoyment of the story after one point. I felt that the story almost focused on the conflicts more than it did the development of Nick and Annabelle’s relationship. Their happy ending felt a little fake since I didn’t get to see the progression of their romantic relationship as much as I wanted to.
Normally sunshine heroines get on my nerves a bit, and I will admit that the heroine did for a while. But as the story progressed, she grew on me. I really enjoyed reading her and the hurdles she had to overcome.
The hero was a great grump. I am definitely a sucker for a grump hero, especially when they are rich and broken boys. I loved watching him deal with his personal issues before her fully fell for Annabelle. It thought it was so interesting how the two characters didn’t meet until around halfway into the story. I thought I wasn’t going to like it. However, both characters had so much work they had to do individually before they could commit to a relationship that it worked really well.
Both had to work on themselves before they committed to love and I always love reading that 🙌🏼 Those are the stories that feel more real and emotional, when both characters have to be someone outside of their relationship and work on themselves just as much as they do their relationship. These are the kinds of stories that feel honest, and I really appreciated that.
Slow burns have to be written very well for me to enjoy them. The slow burn was balanced very well with the plot of the book and great chemistry.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I did enjoy the first chunk of the book more than I did the second; it is definitely worth a read. Do I recommend this book? Yes!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5 stars | 🌶🌶/ 5 steam
(there is steam and they talk about some of the steamy things they did that we didn’t get to see)
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Romance, and Jenn McKinlay for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion ❤️
This book, though at first I feared had a basic plot, was so entertaining and unique. If you are looking for the perfect beach read, palette cleanser, or reassurance that you aren’t a total hot mess, this book is perfect for you.
Tropes:
🙌🏼 grump-sunshine
🏠 neighbor/landlord romance
💰 rich hero
🤦🏽♀️ hot mess heroine
🔥 slow burn
🗣 banter
When I had gone into this book, I thought I was going into a women’s fiction wrapped up in a rouse of a rom-com. However, I was pleasantly surprised to be wrong 😊
This book was a mature yet sweet rom-com that excellently death with deeper, serious issues. Someone looking for a beach read that isn’t necessarily light and fluffy would love this book. I really enjoyed the multiple topics the book dealt with. Annabelle’s toxic co-worker plot really struck a chord with me, and Nick’s dealing with stroke made for a great read.
Though I will say, I felt he conflicts got dragged on a little too long. It did take away the from enjoyment of the story after one point. I felt that the story almost focused on the conflicts more than it did the development of Nick and Annabelle’s relationship. Their happy ending felt a little fake since I didn’t get to see the progression of their romantic relationship as much as I wanted to.
Normally sunshine heroines get on my nerves a bit, and I will admit that the heroine did for a while. But as the story progressed, she grew on me. I really enjoyed reading her and the hurdles she had to overcome.
The hero was a great grump. I am definitely a sucker for a grump hero, especially when they are rich and broken boys. I loved watching him deal with his personal issues before her fully fell for Annabelle. It thought it was so interesting how the two characters didn’t meet until around halfway into the story. I thought I wasn’t going to like it. However, both characters had so much work they had to do individually before they could commit to a relationship that it worked really well.
Both had to work on themselves before they committed to love and I always love reading that 🙌🏼 Those are the stories that feel more real and emotional, when both characters have to be someone outside of their relationship and work on themselves just as much as they do their relationship. These are the kinds of stories that feel honest, and I really appreciated that.
Slow burns have to be written very well for me to enjoy them. The slow burn was balanced very well with the plot of the book and great chemistry.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I did enjoy the first chunk of the book more than I did the second; it is definitely worth a read. Do I recommend this book? Yes!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5 stars | 🌶🌶/ 5 steam
(there is steam and they talk about some of the steamy things they did that we didn’t get to see)
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Romance, and Jenn McKinlay for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion ❤️
August 7, 2021
Wait For It
Jenn McKinlay
When I read a Jenn McKinlay book, it feels like a satisfying and delightful cup of tea. It warms my soul, and the aroma opens up my senses to an uplifting and hopeful feeling.
I am also a Stroke Nurse, so having a character who is a young stroke survivor really did pique my interest in reading this heart filled story.
Both the characters are lovable, with their own sets of flaws, yet their ability to take chances and move on from their life challenges, is really so emotionally uplifting for me to read.
This novel is centered on Annabelle Martin who has had a tough time adulting, with a few bad choices in relationships. She moves from Boston to Arizona to start fresh with a new job. She rents a guest house and speaks to her landlord Nick Daire in handwritten notes. Annabelle finally meets Nick and is surprised to see that he is young and wheelchair bound. Once Annabelle and Nick meet, the tone of the story changed and I was so emotionally invested with their story arc and the development of their relationship.
The writing really drew me in – the characters’ complexities, inner turmoil, and growth was so satisfying to read that I loved every moment.
This was another five star winning Jenn McKinlay read for me.
Thank you Berkley Publishing for the gifted ebook. All opinions are my own.
Jenn McKinlay
When I read a Jenn McKinlay book, it feels like a satisfying and delightful cup of tea. It warms my soul, and the aroma opens up my senses to an uplifting and hopeful feeling.
I am also a Stroke Nurse, so having a character who is a young stroke survivor really did pique my interest in reading this heart filled story.
Both the characters are lovable, with their own sets of flaws, yet their ability to take chances and move on from their life challenges, is really so emotionally uplifting for me to read.
This novel is centered on Annabelle Martin who has had a tough time adulting, with a few bad choices in relationships. She moves from Boston to Arizona to start fresh with a new job. She rents a guest house and speaks to her landlord Nick Daire in handwritten notes. Annabelle finally meets Nick and is surprised to see that he is young and wheelchair bound. Once Annabelle and Nick meet, the tone of the story changed and I was so emotionally invested with their story arc and the development of their relationship.
The writing really drew me in – the characters’ complexities, inner turmoil, and growth was so satisfying to read that I loved every moment.
This was another five star winning Jenn McKinlay read for me.
Thank you Berkley Publishing for the gifted ebook. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2022
Wait for It follows Annabelle Martin as she decides to take a new role as Creative Director at her friends’ marketing agency in Phoenix. She leaves the East Coast ready for a change after 2 divorces before the age of 30 and is hopeful this opportunity will be just what she needs.
Annabelle is renting the guest house on a
beautiful property of an acquaintance of her friends, Miguel and Sophie. They advise her to stay away from the owner but his lack of appearance on the property and excessive amount of rules he provides, make Annabelle curious to find out more. They’ve only been communicating through notes.
Nick Daire had it all before he recently suffered from a stroke at a young age. He is frustrated with inconclusive answers from doctors on why this happened and is also terrified about the possibility of a recurrence. His anxiety has taken over. He rarely leaves the house and finds himself curious about his new tenant while also annoyed at her lack of following the rules he outlined.
Annabelle and Nick eventually meet and find themselves drawn to each other. Will they get along? Can their sometimes opposite demeanors be helpful for each other?
Wait for It had some entertaining moments while also delving into a few more serious topics. I liked the Arizona setting, which you don’t see that often in fiction (or at least, I haven’t). I thought Annabelle and Nick were good people, everyone has moments of frustration and deals with challenges differently. I did find the story pretty predictable and a little neat at times but overall, enjoyed it — 3.5 stars
Annabelle is renting the guest house on a
beautiful property of an acquaintance of her friends, Miguel and Sophie. They advise her to stay away from the owner but his lack of appearance on the property and excessive amount of rules he provides, make Annabelle curious to find out more. They’ve only been communicating through notes.
Nick Daire had it all before he recently suffered from a stroke at a young age. He is frustrated with inconclusive answers from doctors on why this happened and is also terrified about the possibility of a recurrence. His anxiety has taken over. He rarely leaves the house and finds himself curious about his new tenant while also annoyed at her lack of following the rules he outlined.
Annabelle and Nick eventually meet and find themselves drawn to each other. Will they get along? Can their sometimes opposite demeanors be helpful for each other?
Wait for It had some entertaining moments while also delving into a few more serious topics. I liked the Arizona setting, which you don’t see that often in fiction (or at least, I haven’t). I thought Annabelle and Nick were good people, everyone has moments of frustration and deals with challenges differently. I did find the story pretty predictable and a little neat at times but overall, enjoyed it — 3.5 stars
August 12, 2021
Im not gonna lie... I was disappointed for the second half of the book because it jumped right into friends instead of more enemies??? I expected tension and not them getting along???? So soon??? I also didn't like how our villain was so theatrical towards the end of the book. Like dude. Calm down. You lost the job. Leave now. Anyways, still a solid read and a good beach read.
February 5, 2022
jenn mckinlay said “i can have a little ableism. as a treat.”
August 10, 2021
Belle + Nick
To avoid a second proposal from her ex husband, Annabelle accepts the job offer from her bestie Sophie in Arizona.
She leaves icy Boston for the desert heat of Phoenix.
Belle moves into the guest house of reclusive rich guy Nick. Who she has yet to meet.
She thinks he's an ancient mean grumpy guy - but he's the opposite. Well, the mean & grumpy part is definitely correct. But he's young and gorgeous!
And having Belle in his life and backyard ... the poor guy won't be unhappy for much longer ... or he'll get even grumpier. LOL!
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN .... ☺
══════════════════
Where to start?
The cover. I mean! So pretty!
And while I would love to float on that pool with a hot guy and a cocktail... I don't think I would want to do that in Arizona! I'd rather float on an outdoor pool in wintery Boston! I hate the heat! I already started sweating when Belle arrived at the Phoenix airport! LOL!
But I stayed with her all through that desert-heaty story!
And it was such a beautiful story!
I just loved Belle and Nick!
And all the other people - except one! 🤣
This was a great love story with so many great moments. Funny ones. Sparky ones. HOT ones (only weathery or sexy? I'm not telling!🤣). Heartbreaking and emotional ones. Mysterious ones. Serious ones. Dangerous ones. Want-to-hit-him-with-my-kindle ones. So many beautiful moments.
I just loved reading this.
Beautiful love story set in a beautiful place. I could almost smell the citrus trees and hear the blubbering of the hot tub. I loved this story and I wouldn't mind seeing it on Netflix one day!
WAIT FOR IT was such a beautiful love story! A story about healing and family and finally finding your person and place in the world. I loved reading this! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Nicky - this one is MINE!!
💜
💜
September 27, 2021
Wait for It, by Jenn McKinlay, is a fun, flirty, fairly steamy, light-hearted contemporary romance. It’s humorous and has a bit of everything. There is a sensible, likeable, strong, female character, a feisty enemies-to-lovers romance, friendship, work drama, family dynamics, and significant growth arcs for many of the characters.
The story follows Annabelle Martin, an impulsive, twice married and divorced, twenty-something graphic design artist. She leaps at the opportunity proposed by her BFF to leave behind an awkward relationship situation and the dreary Boston weather for a dream job as creative director at her friend’s company in sunny Arizona. She’s set up in a beautiful bungalow on the residence of a recluse, and since curiosity and a good challenge drive her, she’s motivated to learn more about this mystery man and win him over. Likewise, she also needs to win over her new team at work, and not everyone is happy to welcome her.
The story covers so many important topics like the need for honest, self-reflection and personal growth. It examines forms of PTSD, the topics of parental neglect and abandonment, recovery from trauma, mental health issues and adult bullying. These serious topics are dealt with in a respectful manner, but without excessive heaviness or being overbearing, given the genre.
I loved the main character’s outlook and the resolution to the story. Admittedly, the turnaround of the male character was quite sudden, although his overall journey was slower and more realistic. All-in-all, this was an entertaining, enjoyable story that was a pleasure to read.
The story follows Annabelle Martin, an impulsive, twice married and divorced, twenty-something graphic design artist. She leaps at the opportunity proposed by her BFF to leave behind an awkward relationship situation and the dreary Boston weather for a dream job as creative director at her friend’s company in sunny Arizona. She’s set up in a beautiful bungalow on the residence of a recluse, and since curiosity and a good challenge drive her, she’s motivated to learn more about this mystery man and win him over. Likewise, she also needs to win over her new team at work, and not everyone is happy to welcome her.
The story covers so many important topics like the need for honest, self-reflection and personal growth. It examines forms of PTSD, the topics of parental neglect and abandonment, recovery from trauma, mental health issues and adult bullying. These serious topics are dealt with in a respectful manner, but without excessive heaviness or being overbearing, given the genre.
I loved the main character’s outlook and the resolution to the story. Admittedly, the turnaround of the male character was quite sudden, although his overall journey was slower and more realistic. All-in-all, this was an entertaining, enjoyable story that was a pleasure to read.
May 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this! I loved the characters and the storyline. The steam was good and I loved the relationship between Nick and Annabelle.
I didn’t love that Annabelle was always late and that’s one of her traits, and the ending kind of made me roll my eyes a little. But it’s a quick and fun read and I’ll definitely pick up more from this author!
I didn’t love that Annabelle was always late and that’s one of her traits, and the ending kind of made me roll my eyes a little. But it’s a quick and fun read and I’ll definitely pick up more from this author!
January 20, 2023
What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good romance novel that makes me laugh, cry, talk to the pages, laugh while crying, and cry some more. I actually learned alot about human nature, emotions, and the tendency some of us have of forging ahead, falling down, blaming others, and looking at ourselves behind locked doors. Great characters, excellent storylines, and a satisfying ending. Way to go, Jean McKinlay. Looking forward to reading more of your stories. Some sexual scenes (made me realize that I was holding my breath throughout). Otherwise highly recommended.
August 20, 2022
Slow for the first 130 pages then it was fast, fast as hell. No connection.
September 17, 2021
DNF.
There are spoilers I guess but also woof this book was BAD so I’m not hiding my review sorry.
I tried really really hard to give this one a chance. When I hit the halfway point and still hated all the character I had to admit to myself it was a waste of time.
Annabelle is a manic pixie dream girl if I ever read one; she somehow goes from freelancing to lead the creative department of an up and coming ad agency run by her BFF, all to escape a proposal from her ex-husband who she’s been sleeping with for a year? Like?
There’s obvious tension between her BFF and her bff’s husband about hiring her, and this is literally the only plot point I’m interested in.
There’s a terrible guy at work who is bff’s husband’s college friend, who Annabelle has somehow NEVER HEARD OF until she starts working with him in a position that bff’s husband obviously wanted to hire him for. BFF hates him so much SHE PLANNED HER WEDDING FOR A DAY HE COULDN’T MAKE IT, but again, Annabelle has literally never heard of him before. Sounds massively fake but okay? And he guy is over the top terrible, half the employees hate him, and yet this has never been addressed by her friends, the heads of the company?! What the fuck??
And don’t even get me started on Nicholas, the horrible, douchey, only-slightly-less-horrible-about-being-disabled-than-Me-Without-You landlord Annabelle has. Just... what the fuck? I don’t see HOW any of these characters can be redeemed for me in the 49% of the book that I have yet to read.
Oh! Also! Racial stereotypes abound! They’re in Phoenix but the only Latinx folks are the live-in handy man and house keeper? I’m???
Honestly this is just not worth it. I was fooled by the pretty cover, but you don’t have to be!
There are spoilers I guess but also woof this book was BAD so I’m not hiding my review sorry.
I tried really really hard to give this one a chance. When I hit the halfway point and still hated all the character I had to admit to myself it was a waste of time.
Annabelle is a manic pixie dream girl if I ever read one; she somehow goes from freelancing to lead the creative department of an up and coming ad agency run by her BFF, all to escape a proposal from her ex-husband who she’s been sleeping with for a year? Like?
There’s obvious tension between her BFF and her bff’s husband about hiring her, and this is literally the only plot point I’m interested in.
There’s a terrible guy at work who is bff’s husband’s college friend, who Annabelle has somehow NEVER HEARD OF until she starts working with him in a position that bff’s husband obviously wanted to hire him for. BFF hates him so much SHE PLANNED HER WEDDING FOR A DAY HE COULDN’T MAKE IT, but again, Annabelle has literally never heard of him before. Sounds massively fake but okay? And he guy is over the top terrible, half the employees hate him, and yet this has never been addressed by her friends, the heads of the company?! What the fuck??
And don’t even get me started on Nicholas, the horrible, douchey, only-slightly-less-horrible-about-being-disabled-than-Me-Without-You landlord Annabelle has. Just... what the fuck? I don’t see HOW any of these characters can be redeemed for me in the 49% of the book that I have yet to read.
Oh! Also! Racial stereotypes abound! They’re in Phoenix but the only Latinx folks are the live-in handy man and house keeper? I’m???
Honestly this is just not worth it. I was fooled by the pretty cover, but you don’t have to be!
September 6, 2021
DNF at 36%
Well, this is another case of super cute cover, intriguing synopsis, and promising blurb not delivering.
I didn’t care for Annabelle. She’s flighty and irresponsible and everything for her relates to being An Artist. And while those things are probably supposed to make her charming, it really took away for me. What grown ass adult can’t set an alarm to not be late for everything? Nick was snobby and misogynistic (though he constantly says in his inner monologue that it’s an act) and really, just a dick to everyone around him.
Plot wise, it didn’t seem to go anywhere in the amount I read. The MCs hadn’t met yet, but instead watched through windows and left notes.
After reading the parts I did and being throughly underwhelmed, I started reading the reviews. Other people have said there are scenes of ableism, smarmy men, and stereotypical insensitivity. None of those things make me want to go back and read what I’m skipping.
Overall, I was sucked in by that cover and was left disappointed.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
Well, this is another case of super cute cover, intriguing synopsis, and promising blurb not delivering.
I didn’t care for Annabelle. She’s flighty and irresponsible and everything for her relates to being An Artist. And while those things are probably supposed to make her charming, it really took away for me. What grown ass adult can’t set an alarm to not be late for everything? Nick was snobby and misogynistic (though he constantly says in his inner monologue that it’s an act) and really, just a dick to everyone around him.
Plot wise, it didn’t seem to go anywhere in the amount I read. The MCs hadn’t met yet, but instead watched through windows and left notes.
After reading the parts I did and being throughly underwhelmed, I started reading the reviews. Other people have said there are scenes of ableism, smarmy men, and stereotypical insensitivity. None of those things make me want to go back and read what I’m skipping.
Overall, I was sucked in by that cover and was left disappointed.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
November 20, 2024
Honestly I thought I’d have liked this story way more than I did. I liked it, but I didn’t love it. If that makes sense?! It’s not one I’d read again. I’m weird and I do re read some books 😂💁🏼♀️
November 5, 2021
Annabelle Martin is a funny, free spirited and intelligent woman who just needs to get away from home for awhile.... and when her best friend begs her to come visit and work for her company....Annabelle rushes to the rescue.
Living in her best friend's guest cottage comes with so many rules and she winds up breaking too many of them and meets her reclusive landlord. There is mysterious happenings at work too, in her new position.
What I loved: The writing is clear and detailed, easy to get a clear view of the characters and setting. This book is funny! "Sir" the cat is adorable and I want him! The romance is cute! Definitely a worthwhile rom com with a light mystery attached!
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and author Jenn McKinlay for the advance free digital review copy for me to enjoy! As always, my opinions are my own and my reviews are voluntary!
Living in her best friend's guest cottage comes with so many rules and she winds up breaking too many of them and meets her reclusive landlord. There is mysterious happenings at work too, in her new position.
What I loved: The writing is clear and detailed, easy to get a clear view of the characters and setting. This book is funny! "Sir" the cat is adorable and I want him! The romance is cute! Definitely a worthwhile rom com with a light mystery attached!
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and author Jenn McKinlay for the advance free digital review copy for me to enjoy! As always, my opinions are my own and my reviews are voluntary!
April 24, 2022
yeah um. what.
March 2, 2023
This was actually really cute
July 31, 2021
This one started on such a high note for me! Twenty-eight and twice divorced, a graphic design position leads Annabelle to a fresh start in Arizona. Upon arrival, not only is she faced with challenges in the workplace, but Annabelle also has the luxury of renting from Nick Daire, the mysterious, curmudgeon landlord next door.
Using notes to communicate his explicit rules, Nick and Annabelle don't truly meet until almost halfway into the story, which I surprisingly enjoyed! The first half of the story really delved into each character separately, with Nick adjusting to the lasting affects from a stroke, and Annabelle standing her ground against a toxic coworker. Annabelle was a bit reckless—definitely too much at times with her tardiness—but I adored the way her cleverness and impulsiveness irritated the notoriously grumpy Nick.
Unfortunately, I eventually lost a bit of interest as the story progressed. There were certain subplots that felt unnatural within the story for me. And while Annabelle and Nick had sweet moments together, much of their relationship was spent in conflict, making it hard to believe the level of happily-ever-after given. I enjoyed this overall, and I’d still recommend for a romance with heavier emotions, but I preferred the first half.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for review
Using notes to communicate his explicit rules, Nick and Annabelle don't truly meet until almost halfway into the story, which I surprisingly enjoyed! The first half of the story really delved into each character separately, with Nick adjusting to the lasting affects from a stroke, and Annabelle standing her ground against a toxic coworker. Annabelle was a bit reckless—definitely too much at times with her tardiness—but I adored the way her cleverness and impulsiveness irritated the notoriously grumpy Nick.
Unfortunately, I eventually lost a bit of interest as the story progressed. There were certain subplots that felt unnatural within the story for me. And while Annabelle and Nick had sweet moments together, much of their relationship was spent in conflict, making it hard to believe the level of happily-ever-after given. I enjoyed this overall, and I’d still recommend for a romance with heavier emotions, but I preferred the first half.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for review
August 17, 2021
A new-to-me author with a story that’s light and bright, despite its emotional plotting that at times becomes a bit nerve-grating. Filled with wit and charm and a delightful cast of characters. Dual points of view come from Nick and Annabelle, who come close to being complete opposites.
Not introducing the main characters to each other until almost midway through the book is an annoying pet peeve of mine. I am usually so against this type of meet and greet because I like my main characters to get as much page time together as possible. But in this case, the diversion generated the build-up and ended up being a rather clever and fun mechanism. So good in fact that I soon put the minor annoyance behind me and enjoyed the heck out of their story.
Among the excellent secondary cast of players, “Sir” – the tuxedo wearing cat -- added an extra helping of that special pet power to the story which is always a delight. He almost stole the show – but not quite because this one had some delightfully appealing secondaries.
The only other issue I had here was the ending felt abrupt and a little too predictable and trite. There were a few minor dangling ends that needed tending. It's a shame there was no epilogue giving a peek into future developments. I think the book definitely deserved a bit more.
Oh well, c'est la vie!
June 25, 2022
2.5 ⭐️
Wait For It had a good idea when it came to the plot, but the love story just wasn’t believable for me. Plus, he kept calling her goddess and it made me 🤮 every time. It addressed some more serious issues which I appreciated, but half the storyline (Annabelle’s work issues) was super annoying. It was fine for summer mindless reading, but not much more than that.
Wait For It had a good idea when it came to the plot, but the love story just wasn’t believable for me. Plus, he kept calling her goddess and it made me 🤮 every time. It addressed some more serious issues which I appreciated, but half the storyline (Annabelle’s work issues) was super annoying. It was fine for summer mindless reading, but not much more than that.
September 29, 2021
3.5 stars! This book hit home with Belle being the girl who just wanted everyone to love her and fix everything. I am the same way and I felt myself empathizing with her about the demise of her marriages. Listen, if a man can't take care of himself and is a proven mess, you want to fix it because you live with them and it is your life entwined with theirs. I don't think there is anything wrong with that. We are who we are and yes we make concessions, but the one you are meant to be with loves you for you.
Nick is broken so of course everyone warns her away from him because they "know she will try to fix him". I fell in love with each of their struggles even if they didn't communicate them well.
Nick is broken so of course everyone warns her away from him because they "know she will try to fix him". I fell in love with each of their struggles even if they didn't communicate them well.
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