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Only You #2
Only Coworkers
Coming 2023!
Unknown Binding
Published March 11, 2025
147 people are currently reading
637 people want to read
About the author
Charity Ferrell
49 books3,157 followersCharity Ferrell is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, #1 Amazon, and #1 Apple bestselling author.
She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.
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She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.
JOIN MY NL: https://bit.ly/2YHF7im
JOIN MY READER GROUP: https://bit.ly/31ugXIY
WEBSITE: http://charityferrell.com
FOLLOW ME ON:
TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@charityferrell
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/authorcharityferrell
INSTAGRAM: @charityferrell
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
March 7, 2025
2.75⭐
DNF @50%
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
DNF @50%
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
March 6, 2025
4⭐️ | 2.5🌶
I liked this. The prologue had me spinning but it was a great into the book. It captivated me. I liked Essie and Adrian. I loved the found family vibe and that Essie's family was so accepting of Adrian, Paula and Valeria. I loved Essie's parents. I'm so into Ava and River though, I NEED their book! The triggers are heavy so definitely check them. Continuing this series, for sure. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc
I liked this. The prologue had me spinning but it was a great into the book. It captivated me. I liked Essie and Adrian. I loved the found family vibe and that Essie's family was so accepting of Adrian, Paula and Valeria. I loved Essie's parents. I'm so into Ava and River though, I NEED their book! The triggers are heavy so definitely check them. Continuing this series, for sure. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc
March 12, 2025
"Can the same person who broke your heart be the one to fix it? Or do they just inflict more harm and create additional scar tissue?"
That's something that our main character Essie asks herself when she's confronted with a guy from her past. Adrian. Someone she hasn't seen for years. A guy who just got the promotion she deserved. Who's now in her hometown! Taking yet another job opportunity from her.
This book gets complicated. We jump back to the past to see how close Adrian and Essie become. Two sweethearts who clearly have a connection and slowly come to really care about each other. But miscommunication tears them apart, and once close, friends are suddenly no more.
When Adrian gets his second chance, Essie is... really not into it. And why should she be? Adrian proved how much he cared about her. I was really on her side.
Adrian is a really good guy with his heart in the right place. It just leads him astray at times. Not in a bad way, just in the wrong direction.
I loved how persistent Adrian is. He knows what he wants and just keeps going, every time he gets shut down. There's also some great legal plot lines too. One set in the present and one that happened in the past but brings together characters and some redemption.
I love a good second chance, especially in a small town. I hope we get more from these friends!
That's something that our main character Essie asks herself when she's confronted with a guy from her past. Adrian. Someone she hasn't seen for years. A guy who just got the promotion she deserved. Who's now in her hometown! Taking yet another job opportunity from her.
This book gets complicated. We jump back to the past to see how close Adrian and Essie become. Two sweethearts who clearly have a connection and slowly come to really care about each other. But miscommunication tears them apart, and once close, friends are suddenly no more.
When Adrian gets his second chance, Essie is... really not into it. And why should she be? Adrian proved how much he cared about her. I was really on her side.
Adrian is a really good guy with his heart in the right place. It just leads him astray at times. Not in a bad way, just in the wrong direction.
I loved how persistent Adrian is. He knows what he wants and just keeps going, every time he gets shut down. There's also some great legal plot lines too. One set in the present and one that happened in the past but brings together characters and some redemption.
I love a good second chance, especially in a small town. I hope we get more from these friends!
March 12, 2025
For someone that screwed her over four times, i expected a LOT of grovel but there's barely any. I'd want the man on his knees if he screws up this bad but that's just me 😏🤷♀️
Some people might say I’m letting him off too easy.
Yeah babe you are but maybe fifth time's the charm for you.
Safety- 8 years separation. They didn't sleep together before, no mention of their celibacy or their sex life. No ow/om drama.
Some people might say I’m letting him off too easy.
Yeah babe you are but maybe fifth time's the charm for you.
Safety- 8 years separation. They didn't sleep together before, no mention of their celibacy or their sex life. No ow/om drama.
March 20, 2025
✨Book Review✨
Only Fate
Book 2 of 2 in The Only You Series
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️
My second book from Charity and y’all, I’ve found a new favorite small town author! Just like with Only Rivals, I devoured Only Fate and it left me already wanting MORE. I can already tell this series will be big on found family (my FAVORITE) and I am here for it!
Only Fate follows lawyers and past lovers, Essie and Adrian, as they navigate “unexpectedly” working a case together in her hometown. A decade of trying to forget her first love, as well as recovering from a traumatic experience, Essie is in a battle of protecting her heart or taking the leap for a second chance. Adrian is a man who knows what he wants and will do whatever he can to get it and what he wants is Essie. Caught between doing what’s right and winning his girl, Adrian is also left with a big decision.
From the beginning, I was hooked with the prologue and there honestly was not a good stopping point-I had to keep going! I really enjoy the flashback chapters (both books) because we get more perspective in what they were going through as it was happening. With a suspenseful twist, Only Fate keeps you on your toes.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!😍😍
Highly recommend if you like:
•found family
•second chance
•workplace romance
•he falls first
•plot twist
Only Fate
Book 2 of 2 in The Only You Series
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️
My second book from Charity and y’all, I’ve found a new favorite small town author! Just like with Only Rivals, I devoured Only Fate and it left me already wanting MORE. I can already tell this series will be big on found family (my FAVORITE) and I am here for it!
Only Fate follows lawyers and past lovers, Essie and Adrian, as they navigate “unexpectedly” working a case together in her hometown. A decade of trying to forget her first love, as well as recovering from a traumatic experience, Essie is in a battle of protecting her heart or taking the leap for a second chance. Adrian is a man who knows what he wants and will do whatever he can to get it and what he wants is Essie. Caught between doing what’s right and winning his girl, Adrian is also left with a big decision.
From the beginning, I was hooked with the prologue and there honestly was not a good stopping point-I had to keep going! I really enjoy the flashback chapters (both books) because we get more perspective in what they were going through as it was happening. With a suspenseful twist, Only Fate keeps you on your toes.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!😍😍
Highly recommend if you like:
•found family
•second chance
•workplace romance
•he falls first
•plot twist
October 9, 2025
I didn’t love the narrators on the audiobook, but they got the job done. I did appreciate that there was a female narrator for the FMC chapters and a male for the MMC, even if it wasn’t true duet narration.
The author did a solid job developing the tension and hard feelings between Essie and Adrian—exes who now find themselves as opposing counsel on a divorce case. I especially liked the flashback chapters that filled in the gaps of their past relationship and showed how fate continued to bring them together in unexpected ways.
While I wasn’t sure how the main conflict would work itself out (which kept me interested until the end), I ultimately didn’t fall in love with the characters the way I hoped to.
The author did a solid job developing the tension and hard feelings between Essie and Adrian—exes who now find themselves as opposing counsel on a divorce case. I especially liked the flashback chapters that filled in the gaps of their past relationship and showed how fate continued to bring them together in unexpected ways.
While I wasn’t sure how the main conflict would work itself out (which kept me interested until the end), I ultimately didn’t fall in love with the characters the way I hoped to.
March 5, 2025
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
🩷He falls first
🩶small town
🩷enemies to lovers
🩶rivals
🩷suspense
🩶banter
🩷dual pov
Only fate is book 2 in the Only You Series. The only you series is a second generation Blue Beech series, so for more insight it’s beneficial to read those first, but not necessary. This is Adrian and Essie’s book.
Our MMC, Adrian has been in love with Essie since college, when he was roommates with Essie’s twin brother, River. They had this secret relationship and friendship, until one day he just ghosted her and disappeared. He had moved, withdrew, shut down his phone and social media. Essie was left wondering what had happened.
Our FMC, Essie… man she’s really had it rough in her life. She had a past traumatic experience that she couldn’t seem to get past, then she meets Adrian n he’s her comfort. Then he just disappears on her. She was left with trying to put her past behind her and learn to love and accept herself, while dealing with 2 losses in her life.
Fast forward 10 years later
Both Essie and Adrian are now working for same firm but when Essie is passed over for a well deserved promotion she quits n heads back to Blue Beech
What follows is Adrian showing up in Blue Beech buying the local practice she wanted… if you think Adrian showing up is a coinkydink… it’s not.. He wants her back and a second chance.
What follows is fireworks! Man Essie n Adrian just had this chemistry you can just feel and see from across a room. Adrian is determined to get Essie back no matter what and he will do whatever it takes.
I absolutely adored the original series and I’m loving the second generation as well. Hopefully we get more of this second generation. This book is full of banter and sass and I loved it.
I would recommend reading the TW for the events that occur most of it is in past tense but is described on page. The suspense also just added an element I loved.
Thank you Charity for the arc and letting me be on your team.
Tropes:
🩷He falls first
🩶small town
🩷enemies to lovers
🩶rivals
🩷suspense
🩶banter
🩷dual pov
Only fate is book 2 in the Only You Series. The only you series is a second generation Blue Beech series, so for more insight it’s beneficial to read those first, but not necessary. This is Adrian and Essie’s book.
Our MMC, Adrian has been in love with Essie since college, when he was roommates with Essie’s twin brother, River. They had this secret relationship and friendship, until one day he just ghosted her and disappeared. He had moved, withdrew, shut down his phone and social media. Essie was left wondering what had happened.
Our FMC, Essie… man she’s really had it rough in her life. She had a past traumatic experience that she couldn’t seem to get past, then she meets Adrian n he’s her comfort. Then he just disappears on her. She was left with trying to put her past behind her and learn to love and accept herself, while dealing with 2 losses in her life.
Fast forward 10 years later
Both Essie and Adrian are now working for same firm but when Essie is passed over for a well deserved promotion she quits n heads back to Blue Beech
What follows is Adrian showing up in Blue Beech buying the local practice she wanted… if you think Adrian showing up is a coinkydink… it’s not.. He wants her back and a second chance.
What follows is fireworks! Man Essie n Adrian just had this chemistry you can just feel and see from across a room. Adrian is determined to get Essie back no matter what and he will do whatever it takes.
I absolutely adored the original series and I’m loving the second generation as well. Hopefully we get more of this second generation. This book is full of banter and sass and I loved it.
I would recommend reading the TW for the events that occur most of it is in past tense but is described on page. The suspense also just added an element I loved.
Thank you Charity for the arc and letting me be on your team.
March 12, 2025
Predictable and classic enemies to lovers trope
I previously had read some books by this author, that I truly enjoyed, but this one didn't impress me at all. I won't say it's trush, lol, no, but I can't find a good reason to make you read it. The only thing is that hate game, she mastered during a major part of the story. It has its funny moments, in her intentions to keep him an arm long away. But still. Sometimes it doesn't convince at all. Anyway.. And him, the guy, who's a really nice attorney, seem like a dog who's someone stole his favorite toy from, and sometimes he looks "desperate".
Their love story and chemistry? Well, not something you'll loose your mind about, and the sexy stuff, well there's several other things that could have been done better about, but overall there are okay. Nothing special.
If you like her books, you'll probably be a bit "disappointed" of this one. Cuz her written quality is a way higher than that.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of an honest review *
I previously had read some books by this author, that I truly enjoyed, but this one didn't impress me at all. I won't say it's trush, lol, no, but I can't find a good reason to make you read it. The only thing is that hate game, she mastered during a major part of the story. It has its funny moments, in her intentions to keep him an arm long away. But still. Sometimes it doesn't convince at all. Anyway.. And him, the guy, who's a really nice attorney, seem like a dog who's someone stole his favorite toy from, and sometimes he looks "desperate".
Their love story and chemistry? Well, not something you'll loose your mind about, and the sexy stuff, well there's several other things that could have been done better about, but overall there are okay. Nothing special.
If you like her books, you'll probably be a bit "disappointed" of this one. Cuz her written quality is a way higher than that.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of an honest review *
March 17, 2025
Essie and Adrian’s story was emotional messy and beautiful my heart ached for everything they went through especially Essie my god that prologue was so devastating I was crying at the end of the chapter! I really enjoyed being back in Blue Beech with the second generation I loved the witty banter but boy oh boy do these two walk a thin line between love and hate ! And all that delicious enemies to lovers tension between them was so good . I love Charity Ferrell as an author her writing is so heart felt rather it’s small town romance or mafia romance and the spice is always top notch ! Loved this book in this series it can be read as a stand-alone and it is the second book that’s part of the Only you series. Definitely a must read and definitely gets my five star approval!
CW/TW - car accident and someone dies it’s on page .
Mentions of drunk driving
Death/grief
I honestly can’t think of anything else but there might be more triggers idk what you consider a trigger I probably won’t so always check for yourself.
POV - Dual
Hero - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heroine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall Rating - 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
CW/TW - car accident and someone dies it’s on page .
Mentions of drunk driving
Death/grief
I honestly can’t think of anything else but there might be more triggers idk what you consider a trigger I probably won’t so always check for yourself.
POV - Dual
Hero - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heroine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall Rating - 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 4, 2025
Pretty standard small town romance - although I did like the criminal justice element with the book opening with a crime that impacted the FMC for the rest of the book. That added something new and interesting to what otherwise was a pretty run-of-the-mill story. I enjoyed reading the Blue Beech and Twisted Fox sister series back in 2023 I think it was - and this one was book 2 of the “Only You” series which follows the second generation / children of all the original Blue Beech / Twisted Fox couples. It’s fun to have interconnected series like this, and even if it’s not a blow-you-mind romance story, I like that it ties in with a world that I already know and have read so much about, so I’ll continue to read each book published in the Only You series. They are entertaining and easy to read!
March 10, 2025
This is a 4.5⭐ read
Book 2 in the second generation blue beech series.
Essie and Adrian have a history.
Its now 10 years later and Essie is still holding a grudge.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts.
Adrian is determined to get Essie back and will do whatever it takes.
Plenty of banter and sass and I loved the past previews conung through into the present giving us more of their backstory.
Great twist and a little suspense add to this great read.
I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review.
Book 2 in the second generation blue beech series.
Essie and Adrian have a history.
Its now 10 years later and Essie is still holding a grudge.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts.
Adrian is determined to get Essie back and will do whatever it takes.
Plenty of banter and sass and I loved the past previews conung through into the present giving us more of their backstory.
Great twist and a little suspense add to this great read.
I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review.
March 1, 2025
Only fate picks up the small town charm of Blue Beech and combines it with a second chanc and rivals trope that entertains. Essie and Adrian have wonderful chemistry and while she hates him, he wants to win her back. I enjoyed Adrian and found him to be charming and authentic with a lovely heart. Essie is guarded, which makes sense given her past, but I admired her tenacity. There's always something magical about Blue Beech and returning there felt like a hug from an old friend
March 6, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
The second installment of the Only You series!
It was actually very enlightening to have the FMC more grumpy/black cat energy than the MMC.
I really enjoyed being taken back to their college days and text threads and coming back to the present. Very sweet romance with a twist!
Tropes:
Second chance
Flash backs
Text threads
Competitive Lawyers
Brothers roommate
Small town romance
Romantic suspense
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
The second installment of the Only You series!
It was actually very enlightening to have the FMC more grumpy/black cat energy than the MMC.
I really enjoyed being taken back to their college days and text threads and coming back to the present. Very sweet romance with a twist!
Tropes:
Second chance
Flash backs
Text threads
Competitive Lawyers
Brothers roommate
Small town romance
Romantic suspense
March 16, 2025
Amazon
Essie has never forgiven Adrian for ghosting her. Now years later she finds he's stolen her promotion from her, and she's officially done. The only recourse? Move back to Blue Beech and open her own firm. She thought she escaped him and now he's followed her there?!? All Essie knows is she's not giving him the chance to break her heart again, no matter how persistent he is, no matter how much her heart and her body want her to give in to his charm.
I do love me a good enemies to lovers story, when paired with second chances - that much better!! Adrian is the one who wants the second chance, and damn is he persistent and determined to get it with his only love, Essie. She doesn't make it easy on him, nor should she have, considering how he broke her heart. But of course, the love between them was true, and they both put in the work to get to their second chance, and it was sweet reading. Throw in some suspense, lots of witty snark, lovable family members, and sizzling chemistry - I was cheering this couple on as they got their well deserved happy ever after.
ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review.
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October 21, 2025
This is book 2 in the Only You series and an Audiobook review.
I should have known this was going to be a fabulous story as from the start it is intense with a car accident that takes place 10 years prior to the rest of the book.
Essie is involved in the accident and survives but with scars physically and mentally,unfortunately the driver she is with is not so fortunate...This is an important part of the book but it is not mentioned until later in the book.
Essie is now a Lawyer and her nemesis Adrian has stolen the promotion she wanted away from her,and she is fuming.
Essie and Adrian have a past you see they used to be very close friends and even shared kisses,they fell in love in college....Then Adrian disappeared without a word breaking Essie's heart.
So Essie is more than angry that Adrian is working at the place she is but now he is her new boss,so she goes on a rampage getting herself fired.
So she decides to go back to her childhood town Blue Beach and wants to set up her own lawyer practice there.
But Adrian crushes that dream too when he takes over the Lawyers offices for Blue Beach,so to spite him she sets up her own Lawyers office.
The thing is Adrian is not trying to make her mad on purpose..he is actually stalking her to try to win her back..
He messed up in the past and wants her love and forgiveness.
Does Essie make is easy ? NO WAY.
We do get to know how they became friends and more, as the story goes from past to present.
They end up on opposite sides of a divorce case Essie representing the wife and Adrian representing the cheating husband.
So they are thrown together a number of times and they become close but still distant in a way.
Adrian makes no secret that he wants Essie back in his life,making it clear to Essie his intentions..But he keeps messing up and losing her trust.
But they have so much chemistry and are very attracted to one another and it is only a matter of time before they become intimate with one another.They are so HOT together !!
I could have screamed at Adrian for not being honest with Essie at times,but I did love him because he teaches Essie how to love her body despite the scars.He just loves her but has to grovel and apologise ALOT!!.
Essie has been through so much and she is a strong woman who has overcome alot,but she is weak when it comes to Adrian and Hating him is not something she can maintain.
There is such a huge curveball in their story though that could be the end of them before they can even date properly and a betrayal that could be unforgiveable...when the past interferes with their relationship.
Charity Ferrell is really great at telling such detailed and intriguing stories,they are never simple but has many ups and downs,that keep you on your toes.
Narration to Only Fate is performed by Lacy Laurel and Lance Greenfield I enjoyed listening to them both telling this story.Lance is so intense as Adrian,his voice carrys so much passion and Lacy as Essie is wonderful both are clear and bring all the emotions good and bad to take you on this rollercoaster of a romance.
I love the way at the end we get a hint of what future books could possibly be about which makes me excited for them to be written.
Loved listening to this book.
5 Stars.
I should have known this was going to be a fabulous story as from the start it is intense with a car accident that takes place 10 years prior to the rest of the book.
Essie is involved in the accident and survives but with scars physically and mentally,unfortunately the driver she is with is not so fortunate...This is an important part of the book but it is not mentioned until later in the book.
Essie is now a Lawyer and her nemesis Adrian has stolen the promotion she wanted away from her,and she is fuming.
Essie and Adrian have a past you see they used to be very close friends and even shared kisses,they fell in love in college....Then Adrian disappeared without a word breaking Essie's heart.
So Essie is more than angry that Adrian is working at the place she is but now he is her new boss,so she goes on a rampage getting herself fired.
So she decides to go back to her childhood town Blue Beach and wants to set up her own lawyer practice there.
But Adrian crushes that dream too when he takes over the Lawyers offices for Blue Beach,so to spite him she sets up her own Lawyers office.
The thing is Adrian is not trying to make her mad on purpose..he is actually stalking her to try to win her back..
He messed up in the past and wants her love and forgiveness.
Does Essie make is easy ? NO WAY.
We do get to know how they became friends and more, as the story goes from past to present.
They end up on opposite sides of a divorce case Essie representing the wife and Adrian representing the cheating husband.
So they are thrown together a number of times and they become close but still distant in a way.
Adrian makes no secret that he wants Essie back in his life,making it clear to Essie his intentions..But he keeps messing up and losing her trust.
But they have so much chemistry and are very attracted to one another and it is only a matter of time before they become intimate with one another.They are so HOT together !!
I could have screamed at Adrian for not being honest with Essie at times,but I did love him because he teaches Essie how to love her body despite the scars.He just loves her but has to grovel and apologise ALOT!!.
Essie has been through so much and she is a strong woman who has overcome alot,but she is weak when it comes to Adrian and Hating him is not something she can maintain.
There is such a huge curveball in their story though that could be the end of them before they can even date properly and a betrayal that could be unforgiveable...when the past interferes with their relationship.
Charity Ferrell is really great at telling such detailed and intriguing stories,they are never simple but has many ups and downs,that keep you on your toes.
Narration to Only Fate is performed by Lacy Laurel and Lance Greenfield I enjoyed listening to them both telling this story.Lance is so intense as Adrian,his voice carrys so much passion and Lacy as Essie is wonderful both are clear and bring all the emotions good and bad to take you on this rollercoaster of a romance.
I love the way at the end we get a hint of what future books could possibly be about which makes me excited for them to be written.
Loved listening to this book.
5 Stars.
March 12, 2025
“No one knows me as well as you do. I don’t think anyone ever will.”
Charity Ferrell is back with the newest release from the second generation spinoff series Only You that is Only Fate.
This interconnected standalone had us following Esmeralda ‘Essie’ Lane and Adrian Castillo through both of their perspective, in this Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance Romance.
Essie and Adrian’s story was a great mix of character and storyline development.
In the elements that made up the story, it paved the way for quite the entertainment from the funny moments that came with not only being a Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine trope.
But the witty banter too leading to entertaining metaphorical punches with the two going back and forth in all the pushing and pulling they did. Bringing very much needed light-hearted, comedic moments, considering rainbows and sunshine didn't always pave the way for Essie and Adrian.
Simultaneously the storyline delivered in bringing a deeper and at times intense side courtesy of the emotional outpour in all that Essie and Adrian faced, endured and suffered through.
Something author Charity always made loud and clear in their inner monologue within their POV chapters. More so when tensions rose from the angst and drama at play within their relationship and outside.
When it came to Essie and Adrian’s relationship it made for quite an emotional rollercoaster ride, then again it was to be expected from the two having a shared past.
Considering author Charity had us delving into the past when needed, since the story was told in both past and present, it helped not only to fill in the pieces of Essie and Adrian’s past relationship. But understand how their relation came to be what it was currently.
All the while touching on the further character development from the feel of them we were presented with, particularly since we were able to get to know them at two different ages. And seeing how much they had evolved from then to now with the unravelling of their layers.
Through it all we were able to see their connection was still very much alive given the sparks they continue to give off, having never died despite the downs and lows of their relationship.
The one thing I noticed in Only Fate as well as Charity’s other books was she how she managed to capture and incorporate Small Town charm without it overtaking or overpowering the main focus of the narrative. Instead adding further development into the plot considering the part it played within Essie and Adrian’s story.
Plus with all the in-depth details that was showcased, from the landscape, to the buildings, to the townsfolk and the history, it had me thinking and feeling like it could be a real place. The fact that I was so easily able to envision the story as if watching a movie in my head as I read along.
All in all, Only Fate made for a pleasantly enjoyable read.
Then again that’s not a surprise since writing Small Town Romances is something I notice author Charity Ferrell does so well with Essie and Adrian's story being one of many from Charity.
After reading this book, I look forward to continuing on with the rest of the Only You series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Charity Ferrell is back with the newest release from the second generation spinoff series Only You that is Only Fate.
This interconnected standalone had us following Esmeralda ‘Essie’ Lane and Adrian Castillo through both of their perspective, in this Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance Romance.
Essie and Adrian’s story was a great mix of character and storyline development.
In the elements that made up the story, it paved the way for quite the entertainment from the funny moments that came with not only being a Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine trope.
But the witty banter too leading to entertaining metaphorical punches with the two going back and forth in all the pushing and pulling they did. Bringing very much needed light-hearted, comedic moments, considering rainbows and sunshine didn't always pave the way for Essie and Adrian.
Simultaneously the storyline delivered in bringing a deeper and at times intense side courtesy of the emotional outpour in all that Essie and Adrian faced, endured and suffered through.
Something author Charity always made loud and clear in their inner monologue within their POV chapters. More so when tensions rose from the angst and drama at play within their relationship and outside.
When it came to Essie and Adrian’s relationship it made for quite an emotional rollercoaster ride, then again it was to be expected from the two having a shared past.
Considering author Charity had us delving into the past when needed, since the story was told in both past and present, it helped not only to fill in the pieces of Essie and Adrian’s past relationship. But understand how their relation came to be what it was currently.
All the while touching on the further character development from the feel of them we were presented with, particularly since we were able to get to know them at two different ages. And seeing how much they had evolved from then to now with the unravelling of their layers.
Through it all we were able to see their connection was still very much alive given the sparks they continue to give off, having never died despite the downs and lows of their relationship.
The one thing I noticed in Only Fate as well as Charity’s other books was she how she managed to capture and incorporate Small Town charm without it overtaking or overpowering the main focus of the narrative. Instead adding further development into the plot considering the part it played within Essie and Adrian’s story.
Plus with all the in-depth details that was showcased, from the landscape, to the buildings, to the townsfolk and the history, it had me thinking and feeling like it could be a real place. The fact that I was so easily able to envision the story as if watching a movie in my head as I read along.
All in all, Only Fate made for a pleasantly enjoyable read.
Then again that’s not a surprise since writing Small Town Romances is something I notice author Charity Ferrell does so well with Essie and Adrian's story being one of many from Charity.
After reading this book, I look forward to continuing on with the rest of the Only You series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2025
Quick Summary: A second chance, workplace rivals romance
My Review: Only Fate by Charity Ferrell is book #2 in the Only You series. The audiobook is scheduled for release on 10/20/25.
About the Book: "I hoped to never see Adrian Castillo again after he broke my heart.
...he’s not supposed to move to your small town to win it back."
In My Own Words: An unexpected friendship formed between a man and a woman. Mistakes were made and the love that could have been was never fully realized. Then, as fate would have it, their paths crossed again.
Question to Consider: What happens when trust is broken and the heart does as well?
About the Characters:
Essie -> Resilient, haunted, sassy, insecure, afraid to be vulnerable when trust is broken
Adrian -> Good, driven, poor choices, repentant for ill timed omissions
Essie and Adrian were really likable characters. They each had their own troubled past drama. Despite that, they dared to dream of having something special for themselves when it came to a loving relationship.
About the Conflict: Essie and Adrian started out so strong and hopeful, but that soon changed. Misunderstandings, internal struggles, and the matter of total transparency greatly hindered their relationship.
The major conflict points included:
Tragic and unresolved past
Failure to share hardships
Limited communication
Workplace tension and opposition
Troubled history (with distorted facts)
External factors that were out of Essie and Adrian's control
The Gotcha Factor: I did not see confession and the associated mystery that connected the past and the present coming.
My Favorite Part: The flowery words that each thought but did not necessarily say aloud
What I Did Not Like/Care For: I actually did not like how the word "stalker" was used in the story. It was mentioned a few times in order to explain chosen actions, regarding this couple. It gave off a negative vibe. I did not think what was explained amounted to that. I think a better word choice might have properly conveyed what was happening between the leads. Of course, I understand that this is subjective.
About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by Lance Greenfield and Lacy Laurel. I felt that the style they used and the tonal elements expressed made the story come to life.
My Final Say: I liked the story. I loved the fact that Adrian fought for what he wanted. Much could have been avoided if the couple simply sat down and shared their hearts with each other.
Rating: 4-/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA
Re-read: Yes
Status/Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐-
Series: Yes
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Dreamscape Select | Charity Ferrell LLC), and to NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to review this work. It was a pleasure to read.
My Review: Only Fate by Charity Ferrell is book #2 in the Only You series. The audiobook is scheduled for release on 10/20/25.
About the Book: "I hoped to never see Adrian Castillo again after he broke my heart.
...he’s not supposed to move to your small town to win it back."
In My Own Words: An unexpected friendship formed between a man and a woman. Mistakes were made and the love that could have been was never fully realized. Then, as fate would have it, their paths crossed again.
Question to Consider: What happens when trust is broken and the heart does as well?
About the Characters:
Essie -> Resilient, haunted, sassy, insecure, afraid to be vulnerable when trust is broken
Adrian -> Good, driven, poor choices, repentant for ill timed omissions
Essie and Adrian were really likable characters. They each had their own troubled past drama. Despite that, they dared to dream of having something special for themselves when it came to a loving relationship.
About the Conflict: Essie and Adrian started out so strong and hopeful, but that soon changed. Misunderstandings, internal struggles, and the matter of total transparency greatly hindered their relationship.
The major conflict points included:
Tragic and unresolved past
Failure to share hardships
Limited communication
Workplace tension and opposition
Troubled history (with distorted facts)
External factors that were out of Essie and Adrian's control
The Gotcha Factor: I did not see confession and the associated mystery that connected the past and the present coming.
My Favorite Part: The flowery words that each thought but did not necessarily say aloud
What I Did Not Like/Care For: I actually did not like how the word "stalker" was used in the story. It was mentioned a few times in order to explain chosen actions, regarding this couple. It gave off a negative vibe. I did not think what was explained amounted to that. I think a better word choice might have properly conveyed what was happening between the leads. Of course, I understand that this is subjective.
About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by Lance Greenfield and Lacy Laurel. I felt that the style they used and the tonal elements expressed made the story come to life.
My Final Say: I liked the story. I loved the fact that Adrian fought for what he wanted. Much could have been avoided if the couple simply sat down and shared their hearts with each other.
Rating: 4-/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA
Re-read: Yes
Status/Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐-
Series: Yes
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Dreamscape Select | Charity Ferrell LLC), and to NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to review this work. It was a pleasure to read.
March 28, 2025
Charity Ferrell's Only Fate will take the readers into the heart of small-town drama, delivering a potent blend of second-chance romance and the ever-popular enemies-to-lovers trope. As part of the Only You series, a second-generation offshoot of the Blue Beech saga, this book carries the weight of established emotional landscapes, and it delivers.
Ferrell excels at crafting characters burdened by their pasts. The protagonists are flawed, relatable, and undeniably human. Their journey from bitter antagonism to burgeoning love is a slow burn, punctuated by raw emotional honesty. The author expertly navigates the complexities of their evolving relationship, making their eventual connection feel earned and deeply satisfying.
The small-town setting serves as more than just a backdrop in the story; it's a character in itself, fostering a sense of community while simultaneously highlighting the characters' isolation. This duality adds depth to the narrative, amplifying the emotional stakes.
Only Fate isn't a light read. Ferrell doesn't shy away from exploring darker themes and emotional pain. Readers should be aware of potential triggers, as the book delves into complex and potentially sensitive subjects. However, it's precisely this willingness to confront difficult emotions that elevates the story beyond typical romance fare.
Ferrell's writing is always evocative and immersive. She has a way that draws you into the characters' inner worlds, making you feel their pain, their longing, and their eventual hope. The dialogue is sharp, and the internal monologues are revealing, providing a profound understanding of their motivations.
What I loved:
• The deeply emotional and complex characters.
• The well-executed enemies-to-lovers trope.
• The evocative small-town setting.
• The raw and honest portrayal of emotional struggles.
• The satisfying slow-burn romance.
Things to be aware of:
• Contains potentially triggering content.
• Emotionally heavy, not a light read.
• Reading the previous series can enrich the experience, but it can be read as a standalone.
Overall:
Only Fate is a compelling and emotionally resonant romance that explores the power of forgiveness and the possibility of finding love amidst pain. If you're a fan of second-chance romances with complex characters and a healthy dose of angst, this book is for you. Just be prepared to feel deeply.
Ferrell excels at crafting characters burdened by their pasts. The protagonists are flawed, relatable, and undeniably human. Their journey from bitter antagonism to burgeoning love is a slow burn, punctuated by raw emotional honesty. The author expertly navigates the complexities of their evolving relationship, making their eventual connection feel earned and deeply satisfying.
The small-town setting serves as more than just a backdrop in the story; it's a character in itself, fostering a sense of community while simultaneously highlighting the characters' isolation. This duality adds depth to the narrative, amplifying the emotional stakes.
Only Fate isn't a light read. Ferrell doesn't shy away from exploring darker themes and emotional pain. Readers should be aware of potential triggers, as the book delves into complex and potentially sensitive subjects. However, it's precisely this willingness to confront difficult emotions that elevates the story beyond typical romance fare.
Ferrell's writing is always evocative and immersive. She has a way that draws you into the characters' inner worlds, making you feel their pain, their longing, and their eventual hope. The dialogue is sharp, and the internal monologues are revealing, providing a profound understanding of their motivations.
What I loved:
• The deeply emotional and complex characters.
• The well-executed enemies-to-lovers trope.
• The evocative small-town setting.
• The raw and honest portrayal of emotional struggles.
• The satisfying slow-burn romance.
Things to be aware of:
• Contains potentially triggering content.
• Emotionally heavy, not a light read.
• Reading the previous series can enrich the experience, but it can be read as a standalone.
Overall:
Only Fate is a compelling and emotionally resonant romance that explores the power of forgiveness and the possibility of finding love amidst pain. If you're a fan of second-chance romances with complex characters and a healthy dose of angst, this book is for you. Just be prepared to feel deeply.
October 26, 2025
Charity Farrell didn’t disappoint with this story with
Lance Greenfield and Lacy Laurel who did an amazing job bringing Essie and Adrian to life!
I'm hooked!
Audiobook Review ALC
Only Fate (Only You bk 2 )
by Charity Ferrell
Narrated by: Lance Greenfield & Lacy Laurel
Story: 5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Narrators; 10/10 🎧🎤📚
Adrian Castillo and Esmerelda story!
Essie
10 yrs after the incident she was denied the promotion she thought she would get.. but was stolen by Adrian Castillo.
A man she was once in love with but now are enemies, so after causing a scene she left the law firm and return home to open her own Law firm in Blue Beach!
Expecting not to see Adrian again Essie was sorely mistaken as he turned up working for the rival law firm nearby.
Adrian
An Attorney like his mom, went to work for his grandmother boyfriend after Essie exploded at the law firm who passed her over and gave him the promotion.
But as luck would have it he will be in Blue Beach. Same as Esmerelda who think she hates him.
But Working at the only law firm which will be his after his boss retired and being near his girl with a chance of getting her back is his ultimate goal.
💭
While Adrian tries to figure out how to get back with Esmeralda, she was busy thwarting his every move.. but fate has other idea and a little help…
Well a lot it would seem.
Because what were the chances that after that blow up at her old workplace, Adrian would be working close with her and in her hometown as well.
Listen 🎧
While I enjoy this audiobook story and the way Lance Greenfield (a fave of mine) brought the story to life, with Lacy Laurel new to me who did a decent job.. I felt it would’ve have been much better narrated in Duet.
I did enjoy it although it started a bit off for because of my peeve, I did eventually got reeled into the story and throughly enjoyed its fun sassy humor that the narrators brings!
💭
I’ve listened the Blue beech series and fell in love with how hilarious emotional and romantically sweet it was but this one almost fell flat at the beginning for me.. not because of the story but because of the style narration, but it did picked up as it went along.
Now I’m excited to listen how the rest of the series will go and who the next narrators will be!
VIBES IN ONLY FATE AUDIOBOOK 🎧
📜Second Chance
👔Small Town
📜Enemies to Lovers
👠Secret Romance
📜Business Rivals
👔Will -they
💼Won’t they
📜Angsty
💼MMC Obsessed
👔Spice
📜Dual POV
💼HEA
A shout out to Valentine _pr and to you my besties for reading my review and ramblings,
Until next time.
One Love 💕 one book at a time
🦋Georgious🦋
Lance Greenfield and Lacy Laurel who did an amazing job bringing Essie and Adrian to life!
I'm hooked!
Audiobook Review ALC
Only Fate (Only You bk 2 )
by Charity Ferrell
Narrated by: Lance Greenfield & Lacy Laurel
Story: 5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Narrators; 10/10 🎧🎤📚
Adrian Castillo and Esmerelda story!
Essie
10 yrs after the incident she was denied the promotion she thought she would get.. but was stolen by Adrian Castillo.
A man she was once in love with but now are enemies, so after causing a scene she left the law firm and return home to open her own Law firm in Blue Beach!
Expecting not to see Adrian again Essie was sorely mistaken as he turned up working for the rival law firm nearby.
Adrian
An Attorney like his mom, went to work for his grandmother boyfriend after Essie exploded at the law firm who passed her over and gave him the promotion.
But as luck would have it he will be in Blue Beach. Same as Esmerelda who think she hates him.
But Working at the only law firm which will be his after his boss retired and being near his girl with a chance of getting her back is his ultimate goal.
💭
While Adrian tries to figure out how to get back with Esmeralda, she was busy thwarting his every move.. but fate has other idea and a little help…
Well a lot it would seem.
Because what were the chances that after that blow up at her old workplace, Adrian would be working close with her and in her hometown as well.
Listen 🎧
While I enjoy this audiobook story and the way Lance Greenfield (a fave of mine) brought the story to life, with Lacy Laurel new to me who did a decent job.. I felt it would’ve have been much better narrated in Duet.
I did enjoy it although it started a bit off for because of my peeve, I did eventually got reeled into the story and throughly enjoyed its fun sassy humor that the narrators brings!
💭
I’ve listened the Blue beech series and fell in love with how hilarious emotional and romantically sweet it was but this one almost fell flat at the beginning for me.. not because of the story but because of the style narration, but it did picked up as it went along.
Now I’m excited to listen how the rest of the series will go and who the next narrators will be!
VIBES IN ONLY FATE AUDIOBOOK 🎧
📜Second Chance
👔Small Town
📜Enemies to Lovers
👠Secret Romance
📜Business Rivals
👔Will -they
💼Won’t they
📜Angsty
💼MMC Obsessed
👔Spice
📜Dual POV
💼HEA
A shout out to Valentine _pr and to you my besties for reading my review and ramblings,
Until next time.
One Love 💕 one book at a time
🦋Georgious🦋
October 17, 2025
Finished 10/16/2025
CW/TW: car accident, on page death/grief of a friend, third party imprisonment
Latine Dog dad MMC. Scarred FMC. Both MCs are lawyers. This was full of pining and yearning from the MMC! Their college relationship was very cute. Her learning to love her body was so healing, and loved him kissing her scars! I do feel like Adrian messed up multiple times with her but I loved his "hold me accountable" line. The car accident mystery was really fucked up and so so stupid.
Second time author for me, with listening to the first book just before this. Now I want to be invested in her past books for the interconnections.
Interconnected to book 1 Amelia/Jax. Seems like a lot of potential for other character books in their small town friend group. Love all the interconnected clues. Most likely next books are Ava/River, Mia/Trey, Easton/Hannah! This is a Second Generation book series to Blue Beech series.
Just A Fling (Blue Beech #1) - Mia's mom Stella is mentioned
Just Exes (Blue Beech #3) - Ava's dad Gage is mentioned
Just Neighbors (Blue Beech #4) - Callie dad Kyle is mentioned
Just Roomates (Blue Beech #5) - Jax's parents Malaki and Sierra appears
Just Friends (Blue Beech #6) - Essie (FMC) and River's parents Rex and Carolina appears
I'm sure I've missed plenty of other cameos and connections.
Audiobook narrators: Lance Greenfield, Lacy Laurel
Dual POV, First Person
Tropes: Business Enemies to Lovers, Small Town, Second Chance, Workplace, Forced Proximity, Flashbacks
Notable Microtropes: He Falls First, MMC slutty little glasses, He kisses her scars,
Spice: 3/5 (Personal Scale) - 6 Open door scenes however many of them short in length. Explicit sexual language used. Vanilla monogamous sexual acts. No kinks.
Spicy Chapters:
Listened at 1.75x speed.
First time listening to Lacy Laurel. She has an okay FMC voice, very expressive! I don't like her male voice and her other character voices are kinda silly.
Second time listening to Lance Greenfield. I do like his voice and he was okay, but it's a shame this audio didn't get Latine representation for the character. I also didnt see the text and questioning how he pronounced "carne asada" as "carnage asada".
Thanks to Dreamscape Select and NetGalley for providing an ALC.
CW/TW: car accident, on page death/grief of a friend, third party imprisonment
Latine Dog dad MMC. Scarred FMC. Both MCs are lawyers. This was full of pining and yearning from the MMC! Their college relationship was very cute. Her learning to love her body was so healing, and loved him kissing her scars! I do feel like Adrian messed up multiple times with her but I loved his "hold me accountable" line. The car accident mystery was really fucked up and so so stupid.
Second time author for me, with listening to the first book just before this. Now I want to be invested in her past books for the interconnections.
Interconnected to book 1 Amelia/Jax. Seems like a lot of potential for other character books in their small town friend group. Love all the interconnected clues. Most likely next books are Ava/River, Mia/Trey, Easton/Hannah! This is a Second Generation book series to Blue Beech series.
Just A Fling (Blue Beech #1) - Mia's mom Stella is mentioned
Just Exes (Blue Beech #3) - Ava's dad Gage is mentioned
Just Neighbors (Blue Beech #4) - Callie dad Kyle is mentioned
Just Roomates (Blue Beech #5) - Jax's parents Malaki and Sierra appears
Just Friends (Blue Beech #6) - Essie (FMC) and River's parents Rex and Carolina appears
I'm sure I've missed plenty of other cameos and connections.
Audiobook narrators: Lance Greenfield, Lacy Laurel
Dual POV, First Person
Tropes: Business Enemies to Lovers, Small Town, Second Chance, Workplace, Forced Proximity, Flashbacks
Notable Microtropes: He Falls First, MMC slutty little glasses, He kisses her scars,
Spice: 3/5 (Personal Scale) - 6 Open door scenes however many of them short in length. Explicit sexual language used. Vanilla monogamous sexual acts. No kinks.
Spicy Chapters:
Listened at 1.75x speed.
First time listening to Lacy Laurel. She has an okay FMC voice, very expressive! I don't like her male voice and her other character voices are kinda silly.
Second time listening to Lance Greenfield. I do like his voice and he was okay, but it's a shame this audio didn't get Latine representation for the character. I also didnt see the text and questioning how he pronounced "carne asada" as "carnage asada".
Thanks to Dreamscape Select and NetGalley for providing an ALC.
October 18, 2025
Only Fate by Charity Ferrell is an emotional, messy, and ultimately beautiful small-town second-chance romance, brilliantly narrated by Lance Greenfield and Lacy Laurel. This novel perfectly captures the magical charm of Blue Beech while delivering a delicious blend of second-chance and rivals-to-lovers tropes.
Essie never hoped to see Adrian Castillo again after he broke her heart years ago. But fate, as the title suggests, has other plans, making it Adrian's mission to relentlessly run into her. The complication begins when Adrian is hired at the law firm where Essie works, stealing the promotion she deserved. Essie, understandably devastated and furious, quits to start her own firm back in her small hometown of Blue Beech.
The story gets even more complicated—and entertaining—when Adrian follows her to Blue Beech, joining a rival town firm. Now, they are legal adversaries, forced to work a case against each other. This constant, close-proximity rivalry fuels a powerful enemies-to-lovers tension, forcing all the old, painful emotions Essie had for him to resurface. The central question Essie faces is raw and relatable: Can the same person who broke your heart be the one to fix it, or will they only inflict more harm?
Through dual perspectives and flashbacks, we see how close Adrian and Essie once were, how a simple miscommunication tore apart their powerful connection, and why Essie is so guarded now. While her heartbreak and tenacity are completely understandable, Adrian proves himself to be a genuinely good guy with a persistent, lovely heart. He knows what he wants—Essie—and he keeps going, fighting to win her back even when she continually shuts him down.
The book excels in its witty banter and the beautiful, aching chemistry between the two leads. The narrative seamlessly weaves together the emotional stakes of their past with the engaging legal plot lines of the present. Only Fate is a heartfelt story of redemption and the messy, authentic path to healing. It can be read as a standalone, but fans of small-town romance and second chances should absolutely add this must-read to their list.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Essie never hoped to see Adrian Castillo again after he broke her heart years ago. But fate, as the title suggests, has other plans, making it Adrian's mission to relentlessly run into her. The complication begins when Adrian is hired at the law firm where Essie works, stealing the promotion she deserved. Essie, understandably devastated and furious, quits to start her own firm back in her small hometown of Blue Beech.
The story gets even more complicated—and entertaining—when Adrian follows her to Blue Beech, joining a rival town firm. Now, they are legal adversaries, forced to work a case against each other. This constant, close-proximity rivalry fuels a powerful enemies-to-lovers tension, forcing all the old, painful emotions Essie had for him to resurface. The central question Essie faces is raw and relatable: Can the same person who broke your heart be the one to fix it, or will they only inflict more harm?
Through dual perspectives and flashbacks, we see how close Adrian and Essie once were, how a simple miscommunication tore apart their powerful connection, and why Essie is so guarded now. While her heartbreak and tenacity are completely understandable, Adrian proves himself to be a genuinely good guy with a persistent, lovely heart. He knows what he wants—Essie—and he keeps going, fighting to win her back even when she continually shuts him down.
The book excels in its witty banter and the beautiful, aching chemistry between the two leads. The narrative seamlessly weaves together the emotional stakes of their past with the engaging legal plot lines of the present. Only Fate is a heartfelt story of redemption and the messy, authentic path to healing. It can be read as a standalone, but fans of small-town romance and second chances should absolutely add this must-read to their list.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2025
Stepping back into the Blue Beech world is like slipping on my comfiest jammies. Comfy, warm, and I know they hug me in all the right places. It's been almost three years since I've been back to this small town to visit the characters of Blue Beech and yet it felt just like yesterday as I opened the pages of Only Fate. This wonderful novel brought a great mix of banter, family, forgiveness, intrigue, and shocking twists that only Ferrell knows how to deliver with precision and all the feels.
Essie decides to open her own law practice after quitting when she's passed over for a promotion at her current law firm. She never once imagined that the same man who received that promotion would follow her and infiltrate her life in just about every possible way. You see, Adrian Castillo is not only a lawyer, but he's devastating handsome, so of course he becomes the talk of the town, he also is the man who broke Essie's heart almost a decade ago...oh, and she never plans to forgive him for it.
Adrian has never forgotten Essie. She is the one who got away. He saw it as fate when his abuela began dating a man from Blue Beech and that man said he was retiring and offered his law practice to Adrian. It didn't take but a second for Adrian to say yes because it was his chance to be near Essie and begin winning her back. He's dreamed of her for years and he will do anything to be in her life.
Adrian is a total cinnamon roll, a caretaker with a huge heart. He loves his family and even though he's a lawyer, he's got a sensitive side. He can't imagine anyone wanting to hurt Essie and he doesn't like the thought even when he messes up.
Their trip to forgiving one another is angsty because of how big Adrian cares and the big sway Essie has on her trust pendulum. Her background doesn't allow for much room to allow for mistakes so when Adrian does it closes hard, but with a huge cast of family and friends in this book there is a lot of support for both of them. I also love the element of intrigue wrapped into this book. It not only begins with the story, but is sprinkled throughout the plot right up until the very end.
Essie decides to open her own law practice after quitting when she's passed over for a promotion at her current law firm. She never once imagined that the same man who received that promotion would follow her and infiltrate her life in just about every possible way. You see, Adrian Castillo is not only a lawyer, but he's devastating handsome, so of course he becomes the talk of the town, he also is the man who broke Essie's heart almost a decade ago...oh, and she never plans to forgive him for it.
Adrian has never forgotten Essie. She is the one who got away. He saw it as fate when his abuela began dating a man from Blue Beech and that man said he was retiring and offered his law practice to Adrian. It didn't take but a second for Adrian to say yes because it was his chance to be near Essie and begin winning her back. He's dreamed of her for years and he will do anything to be in her life.
Adrian is a total cinnamon roll, a caretaker with a huge heart. He loves his family and even though he's a lawyer, he's got a sensitive side. He can't imagine anyone wanting to hurt Essie and he doesn't like the thought even when he messes up.
Their trip to forgiving one another is angsty because of how big Adrian cares and the big sway Essie has on her trust pendulum. Her background doesn't allow for much room to allow for mistakes so when Adrian does it closes hard, but with a huge cast of family and friends in this book there is a lot of support for both of them. I also love the element of intrigue wrapped into this book. It not only begins with the story, but is sprinkled throughout the plot right up until the very end.
March 5, 2025
I don't know why but for some crazy reason I decided to start this book at 10:45 pm on a Sat night. I really should know better than to think I can start a Charity book and read for just a little bit before going to sleep. Nope, it was 2:45 am when I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer and was at 92% of the book in. 😂
Charity's writing style is literally *chef's kiss*, it makes you feel like YOU are the character that you're reading about so you feel all the feels. Poor Essie had no idea what happened to her relationship with Adrian while they were in college, one day they were happily on their way to love, the next day, POOF he was gone. Like completely, no call, no text, so social media message, even his social media disappeared. Just gone.
Fast forward and Essie looses her chance of a promotion at her current law firm to none other than Adrian. So in spectacular fashion, she shows out at work were she quits/gets fired and then moves back home. Thinking she can take over the local law firm, she finds out that once again, it goes to Adrian. So instead, she starts her own firm (heck yes, girl power!!!). The whole time, she is trying to avoid Adrian because her heart still hurts.
Adrian, poor misunderstood Adrian. He did wrong, 100% he did wrong, with ghosting Essie the way he did but my heart still broke for him when we find out the backstory and why he did what he did. And I have to say, the man more than made it up for it with the way he groveled. It took time but eventually they made their way back to each other. Throughout the book, there is Essie's backstory, of how she got hurt, of the friend she lost and of how the man responsible was in jail. The twist for that particular backstory took me completely by surprise. I don't wanna say any more because I don't want to spoil it but yeah, that's a good twist. You'll see what I mean when you get to it yourself.
Charity's writing style is literally *chef's kiss*, it makes you feel like YOU are the character that you're reading about so you feel all the feels. Poor Essie had no idea what happened to her relationship with Adrian while they were in college, one day they were happily on their way to love, the next day, POOF he was gone. Like completely, no call, no text, so social media message, even his social media disappeared. Just gone.
Fast forward and Essie looses her chance of a promotion at her current law firm to none other than Adrian. So in spectacular fashion, she shows out at work were she quits/gets fired and then moves back home. Thinking she can take over the local law firm, she finds out that once again, it goes to Adrian. So instead, she starts her own firm (heck yes, girl power!!!). The whole time, she is trying to avoid Adrian because her heart still hurts.
Adrian, poor misunderstood Adrian. He did wrong, 100% he did wrong, with ghosting Essie the way he did but my heart still broke for him when we find out the backstory and why he did what he did. And I have to say, the man more than made it up for it with the way he groveled. It took time but eventually they made their way back to each other. Throughout the book, there is Essie's backstory, of how she got hurt, of the friend she lost and of how the man responsible was in jail. The twist for that particular backstory took me completely by surprise. I don't wanna say any more because I don't want to spoil it but yeah, that's a good twist. You'll see what I mean when you get to it yourself.
March 12, 2025
Only Fate
Author- Charity Ferrel
Series- Only You Book #2 (Standalone)
Rating- 5 Stars out of 5
Genres- Contemporary Romance
Tropes- He Ghosted Her, Twin Brother's College Roommate/Friend, Former Coworkers/Current Competitor, Lawyers, Fate, Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance, Small Town, Misunderstanding
Main Characters- Essie and Adrian
Spice Level- 3/5
HEA
Only Fate is the first book I've read by Charity Ferrel and man did I love this book. I loved the storyline, the characters, the town its set in, everything. I had planned to go back and read the first book in this series but then I saw that the Only You series is a spin off, second generation series I knew I had to go back to the very beginning. So I immediately went and got the first in that series on kindle unlimited.
When I started Only Fate I was instantly hooked. I mean when Essie got passed over for a job she was shoo in for Adrian because of some World Series tickets, she went full scorched earth. She outed multiple bosses for indiscretions they would rather not be aired out in an office setting. From that scene alone you get a good idea of the type of personality Essie has and it really added to the overall story. From the first chapter that we get from Adrian's POV I could tell he wasn't the type of person Essie saw him as. He wasn't trying to steel her job or anything, it was very clear that he only started working at that law firm to be with her and try to get her to trust him again. To be honest the one thing that bothered me in this story was when he knew trust was a deal breaker in the relationship, but he still didn't tell her the truth about something important and that was almost the end of their relationship. Yes he intended to tell her and just couldn't find the right time, but sometimes hard conversations never have a "right" time.
Author- Charity Ferrel
Series- Only You Book #2 (Standalone)
Rating- 5 Stars out of 5
Genres- Contemporary Romance
Tropes- He Ghosted Her, Twin Brother's College Roommate/Friend, Former Coworkers/Current Competitor, Lawyers, Fate, Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance, Small Town, Misunderstanding
Main Characters- Essie and Adrian
Spice Level- 3/5
HEA
Only Fate is the first book I've read by Charity Ferrel and man did I love this book. I loved the storyline, the characters, the town its set in, everything. I had planned to go back and read the first book in this series but then I saw that the Only You series is a spin off, second generation series I knew I had to go back to the very beginning. So I immediately went and got the first in that series on kindle unlimited.
When I started Only Fate I was instantly hooked. I mean when Essie got passed over for a job she was shoo in for Adrian because of some World Series tickets, she went full scorched earth. She outed multiple bosses for indiscretions they would rather not be aired out in an office setting. From that scene alone you get a good idea of the type of personality Essie has and it really added to the overall story. From the first chapter that we get from Adrian's POV I could tell he wasn't the type of person Essie saw him as. He wasn't trying to steel her job or anything, it was very clear that he only started working at that law firm to be with her and try to get her to trust him again. To be honest the one thing that bothered me in this story was when he knew trust was a deal breaker in the relationship, but he still didn't tell her the truth about something important and that was almost the end of their relationship. Yes he intended to tell her and just couldn't find the right time, but sometimes hard conversations never have a "right" time.
March 10, 2025
“Because wherever you are feels like home to me”
Per usual Charity wrote an amazing love story. I absolutely loved the Blue Beech series, and loved being able to now learn about the children of the main characters from the series.
Only Fate is about Adrian Castillo and Essie Lane; the daughter of Rex and Carolina from Just Friends. This is an enemy to lovers, second chance, small town romance. Adrian and Essie met when he was roommates with her twin brother, River, in college. After meeting they started a secret friendship that was growing into more until Adrian found out something and vanished from Iowa like he never existed leaving Essie heartbroken. Now it’s years later, he is trying to win her back and she is trying to keep him away. But he’s determined and Blue Beech isn’t a big town.
I truly did love this story, the back and forth these two had throughout the story showed just how hard it is to fight against what you want and what you think you should do.
One of my favorite things is Adrian owning up to his mistakes and almost right away each time something happens. He even admits to knowing that for Essie it’ll be hard to forget what he did in the past. He truly is a trooper for everything he does to win her back and show her he’s trying his best to be what she deserves.
Essie is an extremely strong woman, what she went through as a teen is extremely hard on anyone but she kept going and kept putting her all into everything she did. I admire her for that so much. I’m so glad she was able to get as much closure as she could and get her happy ending.
Their story was an easy one to follow along with, but sadly it didn’t engulf me so it was a four star read for me.
Thank you for much Valentine Publishing and Charity for an ARC copy of this book.
Per usual Charity wrote an amazing love story. I absolutely loved the Blue Beech series, and loved being able to now learn about the children of the main characters from the series.
Only Fate is about Adrian Castillo and Essie Lane; the daughter of Rex and Carolina from Just Friends. This is an enemy to lovers, second chance, small town romance. Adrian and Essie met when he was roommates with her twin brother, River, in college. After meeting they started a secret friendship that was growing into more until Adrian found out something and vanished from Iowa like he never existed leaving Essie heartbroken. Now it’s years later, he is trying to win her back and she is trying to keep him away. But he’s determined and Blue Beech isn’t a big town.
I truly did love this story, the back and forth these two had throughout the story showed just how hard it is to fight against what you want and what you think you should do.
One of my favorite things is Adrian owning up to his mistakes and almost right away each time something happens. He even admits to knowing that for Essie it’ll be hard to forget what he did in the past. He truly is a trooper for everything he does to win her back and show her he’s trying his best to be what she deserves.
Essie is an extremely strong woman, what she went through as a teen is extremely hard on anyone but she kept going and kept putting her all into everything she did. I admire her for that so much. I’m so glad she was able to get as much closure as she could and get her happy ending.
Their story was an easy one to follow along with, but sadly it didn’t engulf me so it was a four star read for me.
Thank you for much Valentine Publishing and Charity for an ARC copy of this book.
March 7, 2025
𝙊𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙁𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙁𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙡
Release Date: March 11, 2025
★★★★☆
Thank you, Charity and Valentine PR for the ARC! This was such a delightful read ♡
I’m not sure what it was about this book, but despite some of the heavy topics, it ended up being such a comforting read. As someone who can never resist a small-town romance, this was the perfect.
Essie was a total breath of fresh air. Reverse grumpy sunshine? Yup. Yes, please. From the moment she dropped some scandalous secrets right before quitting her job, I knew she’d be my girl. I love a strong woman who stands her ground, and Charity really gave Essie layers—she’s tough, sure, but her vulnerability makes her so easy to root for from the beginning.
And then there’s Adrian. I’m a sucker for a man who knows how to grovel, and he did not disappoint. Honestly, I would've folded if someone was as persistent as him, especially with all the rejections and attempts to run him out of town. He’s dedicated, persistent, and I loved that from the get-go, his sole mission was to win Essie back. I mean, the way he gave her space when she needed it, respected her boundaries, and still made sure she knew he was always there? Heart eyes for days.
The whole friend group was so lovable and supportive—it felt like a community you’d want to be a part of. Valeria, though? She stole the show. If you don’t love her by the end, I don’t know what to say.
Overall, this was an enjoyable, feel-good read. If you’re into small-town, second-chance romances with a dash of suspense, I highly recommend picking this one up!
March 17, 2025
“Can the same person who broke your heart be the one to fix it? Or do they just inflict more harm and create additional scar tissue?”
When your life has not been the easiest and you experience one of the most traumatizing events that not only leaves emotional scars but physical ones as well. On a drive back from a party in High School Essie is involved in an accident that takes the life of one of her friends. Healing from that and moving forward we get glimpses into the past where Adrian and Essie first met and started to develop a friendship. Fast forward and the friendship is no longer intact and they are working together in a firm. But that doesn’t last long; Essie gets bypassed for a promotion and Adrian gets it instead. There we have a problem: Essie quits and returns back to her hometown of Blue Beech. Adrian has not been able to forget Essie and tries his hardest to win her back. Only Fate follows that journey of trying to mend a broken heart and seeing if the person that broke it can fix it or if it is unrepairable. From River Essies twin brother to Adrians grandma , and Ava’s meddling/help you can see the great support system they both have. A rock gets thrown in the middle of all this and the person who went to jail for Essie’s accident is fighting to get his sentence overturned. When Adrian takes on the case and starts looking into what happens he learns of Essie’s secret. Only Fate not only shows you what trust in someone can mean but also teaches you how hard it is to forgive and open your heart back up. I am so looking forward to my next Charity Farrell read.
When your life has not been the easiest and you experience one of the most traumatizing events that not only leaves emotional scars but physical ones as well. On a drive back from a party in High School Essie is involved in an accident that takes the life of one of her friends. Healing from that and moving forward we get glimpses into the past where Adrian and Essie first met and started to develop a friendship. Fast forward and the friendship is no longer intact and they are working together in a firm. But that doesn’t last long; Essie gets bypassed for a promotion and Adrian gets it instead. There we have a problem: Essie quits and returns back to her hometown of Blue Beech. Adrian has not been able to forget Essie and tries his hardest to win her back. Only Fate follows that journey of trying to mend a broken heart and seeing if the person that broke it can fix it or if it is unrepairable. From River Essies twin brother to Adrians grandma , and Ava’s meddling/help you can see the great support system they both have. A rock gets thrown in the middle of all this and the person who went to jail for Essie’s accident is fighting to get his sentence overturned. When Adrian takes on the case and starts looking into what happens he learns of Essie’s secret. Only Fate not only shows you what trust in someone can mean but also teaches you how hard it is to forgive and open your heart back up. I am so looking forward to my next Charity Farrell read.
March 11, 2025
Only Fate is book 2 in the Only You series. We have been waiting for this story for a little while but I am so glad that Charity waited until the right story came to her because this one surpassed all my expectations! Adrian and Essie’s story was PHENOMENAL. While this is second gen, you don’t necessarily need to read Blue Beech to read this, it would just give you the knowledge of the other characters' histories.
Adrian & Essie met in college, Essie’s brother and Adrian were roommates. A secret relationship developed between Essie & Adrian until things started to go further and Essie got scared. The next day something happened that sent Adrian away so Essie felt abandoned. Years down the road, Adrian keeps popping up in places, trying to reunite with Essie but unfortunately it always comes off as him taking her job or ruining her life and her hatred grows.
Now they are both in Blue Beech and it is almost funny how much Adrian tries to be around her but Essie just isn’t having it! The thing is, Adrian knows Essie better than anyone so he is eventually able to work his way back into her heart. When they finally get together though, the chemistry is xplossssive!
I adore Charity’s writing. She does a great job writing a story that has so much plot and character development. Their story was very heartwarming but there is also some suspense to it and some past traumas that are still affecting them.
Adrian & Essie met in college, Essie’s brother and Adrian were roommates. A secret relationship developed between Essie & Adrian until things started to go further and Essie got scared. The next day something happened that sent Adrian away so Essie felt abandoned. Years down the road, Adrian keeps popping up in places, trying to reunite with Essie but unfortunately it always comes off as him taking her job or ruining her life and her hatred grows.
Now they are both in Blue Beech and it is almost funny how much Adrian tries to be around her but Essie just isn’t having it! The thing is, Adrian knows Essie better than anyone so he is eventually able to work his way back into her heart. When they finally get together though, the chemistry is xplossssive!
I adore Charity’s writing. She does a great job writing a story that has so much plot and character development. Their story was very heartwarming but there is also some suspense to it and some past traumas that are still affecting them.
March 22, 2025
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This is the next generation's story and it was Essie's story.
Enemies To Lovers, Second Chance & Best Friend's Sibling.
Essie & Adrian become great friends in college. Then something happens and he disappears. I do feel they're both were responsible for that break up in some ways.
Now years later the man she never wanted to see again has taken her promotion from her. She quits and comes back home to start her own firm.
Only, she was not expecting him to quit & follow her.
Essie is confident, sassy and caring. An incident from her past has however affected her in a lot of ways.
Adrian was so adorable, patient, loving and determined. He made a mistake which he has been working for years to make up for. He is determined to explain and win her back. He never stopped loving her.
They had great banter and you can see how he is always trying to give her little wins even if they're fighting against each other on a case.
When she finally forgives him, their relationship was wonderful and spicy.
Unfortunately poor Adrain unknowingly finds himself tangled with her past and she may never forgive him again.
I absolutely loved his Grandma, she was so funny and I think I want to be her when I'm old haha. Great group of friendship too. I can see so many other stories brewing in the background.
Drama, banter, family emotional roller-coaster, love and spice. I think I read it in one sitting,as I needed answers!
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This is the next generation's story and it was Essie's story.
Enemies To Lovers, Second Chance & Best Friend's Sibling.
Essie & Adrian become great friends in college. Then something happens and he disappears. I do feel they're both were responsible for that break up in some ways.
Now years later the man she never wanted to see again has taken her promotion from her. She quits and comes back home to start her own firm.
Only, she was not expecting him to quit & follow her.
Essie is confident, sassy and caring. An incident from her past has however affected her in a lot of ways.
Adrian was so adorable, patient, loving and determined. He made a mistake which he has been working for years to make up for. He is determined to explain and win her back. He never stopped loving her.
They had great banter and you can see how he is always trying to give her little wins even if they're fighting against each other on a case.
When she finally forgives him, their relationship was wonderful and spicy.
Unfortunately poor Adrain unknowingly finds himself tangled with her past and she may never forgive him again.
I absolutely loved his Grandma, she was so funny and I think I want to be her when I'm old haha. Great group of friendship too. I can see so many other stories brewing in the background.
Drama, banter, family emotional roller-coaster, love and spice. I think I read it in one sitting,as I needed answers!
October 17, 2025
This was my first read/listen from this author. The story started out very slow for me. The Prologue relayed an event that happened in the past when the FMC, Essie, was in high school. Chapter 1 fast forwards 10 years with her working as an attorney in a law firm in the city. The promotion she was expecting goes to her ex-boyfriend, Adrian, who had less tenure at the firm. He seems to have suddenly re-surfaced after ghosting her in college, and she wants nothing to do with him. Feeling dejected, Essie decides to move back to her small town of Blue Beech to open her own practice. While she's out with her best friends there, Adrian appears again, almost like he's following her.
For the first half of the book, any exchange between Essie and Adrian sounded like they were still in high school bickering, not bantering, back and forth. At this point, I was still wondering what the prologue had to do with the story and the male character name hadn't been mentioned at all. Essie still carried a lot of resentment toward Adrian and didn't give him a chance to explain what had happened, and it's not until much later that we find out. I had a hard time engaging with this couple, even as I listened to the audio book. The characters sounded whiny, and I almost gave up all together. But I was curious to find out what the prologued had to do with Essie and Adrian. Finally in the last third, the story started to pick up pace, the pieces started to fall, and the book ended on a high note.
For the first half of the book, any exchange between Essie and Adrian sounded like they were still in high school bickering, not bantering, back and forth. At this point, I was still wondering what the prologue had to do with the story and the male character name hadn't been mentioned at all. Essie still carried a lot of resentment toward Adrian and didn't give him a chance to explain what had happened, and it's not until much later that we find out. I had a hard time engaging with this couple, even as I listened to the audio book. The characters sounded whiny, and I almost gave up all together. But I was curious to find out what the prologued had to do with Essie and Adrian. Finally in the last third, the story started to pick up pace, the pieces started to fall, and the book ended on a high note.
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