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Decisions in Durham #1
Decisions We Make After Midnight
Lola Ellis has a picture-perfect life. Until she doesn’t.
Successful, engaged to the man of her dreams, and focused. Until suddenly she’s questioning her position in the family company, her fiancé’s fidelity, and everything she thought she knew about life.
On her way to Florida to open a new branch of the family business and meet her fiancé Owen, she unexpectedly detours to visit her best friend in Durham, North Carolina. What was meant to be a week of rest and relaxation as she gets her mind right stretches into a permanent TBD. She can’t face the future waiting for her in Destin, Florida. And the longer she stays in Durham, the less she wants to.
Will English is an uptight, arrogant bartender who keeps scaring away waitresses. Too busy micromanaging his co-owning siblings, his patience is thin when it comes to the rest of the business. When Lola takes a job at his bar to fill her time while she decides what to do about the mess her life has suddenly become, he decides not to engage with the clearly underqualified new waitress. She’s clumsy, clueless, and costing him too much money every time she gives away another round of drinks because she’s messed up again. And yet… there’s something about her that keeps him from dismissing her.
Together, after the bar closes every night, they forge a friendship that doesn’t fit into either of their lives. Lola’s stay in Durham is only temporary. And Will’s roots in the city are deeply established. A relationship doesn’t make sense. But sometime after midnight one night… they decide they don’t care.
Successful, engaged to the man of her dreams, and focused. Until suddenly she’s questioning her position in the family company, her fiancé’s fidelity, and everything she thought she knew about life.
On her way to Florida to open a new branch of the family business and meet her fiancé Owen, she unexpectedly detours to visit her best friend in Durham, North Carolina. What was meant to be a week of rest and relaxation as she gets her mind right stretches into a permanent TBD. She can’t face the future waiting for her in Destin, Florida. And the longer she stays in Durham, the less she wants to.
Will English is an uptight, arrogant bartender who keeps scaring away waitresses. Too busy micromanaging his co-owning siblings, his patience is thin when it comes to the rest of the business. When Lola takes a job at his bar to fill her time while she decides what to do about the mess her life has suddenly become, he decides not to engage with the clearly underqualified new waitress. She’s clumsy, clueless, and costing him too much money every time she gives away another round of drinks because she’s messed up again. And yet… there’s something about her that keeps him from dismissing her.
Together, after the bar closes every night, they forge a friendship that doesn’t fit into either of their lives. Lola’s stay in Durham is only temporary. And Will’s roots in the city are deeply established. A relationship doesn’t make sense. But sometime after midnight one night… they decide they don’t care.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2021
109 people are currently reading
346 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Higginson
122 books3,494 followersRachel Higginson is the best-selling author of The Five Stages of Falling in Love, Every Wrong Reason, Bet on Us and The Star-Crossed Series.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
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September 29, 2021
Be back soon with full review -- I'm convinced that reading is much more fun than writing reviews.
September 29, 2021
‘It was life. I wanted to start living a life that was mine and not just watching from the outside.’
We’ve loved books by Rachel Higginson in the past so when Decisions We Make After Midnight, book one in her new series Decisions in Durham landed on our kindles we jumped straight in. We were immediately swept up in a sweet and funny romance. Lola Ellis is stuck in a life that’s been mapped out for her by her parents and she’s about to make the biggest commitment of her life, under what you may call ‘duress’ or heavy family pressure. Taking a timeout to go into hiding at her best mate’s house, Lola finds herself in unchartered waters when she applies for a waitress job and becomes spellbound by one of the bar owners. She’s so far out of her comfort zone and her ‘beige’ life that everything becomes a tad overwhelming but oh so very interesting suddenly. Keeping who she is and what her family does a secret, Lola not only finds strength and conviction she never knew was within her, but she also finds a man she never knew she needed in her life.
“You’re playing with fire, Lola.”
“I’m not scared…Not of you, Will English.”
“Maybe you should be.”
Will English is such a moody and stand-off-ish bloke, but hey, that’s what makes him so appealing, a serious but fabulous personality, with that attractive sarcastic dry wit. You just know there’s going to be so much more to this man than meets the eye. Between him and his two siblings, the bar they own comes across as a bit of a madhouse. But a posh one at that! We have to say, we were so intrigued by them all and hope they get their own book too.
‘Nothing about Will was forgettable. Not last night nor all the nights before. Not even this morning. He didn’t just stop by for a brief hello during my life. He’d barged in, cleared out a whole lot of space, and set up camp.’
This romance was a real feel-good read, it’s also a wonderfully slow build despite that initial strong attraction. The characters had great connection and chemistry, as well as maturity and hilarious banter. The romance was swoony and somehow vulnerable, as both Lola and Will reassessed their priorities and what they want out of life. We do have to admit that one part made our hearts break for Will after a certain scene with Lola, and we questioned the why’s of it. Whilst we applauded her convictions of change, the way she went about it seemed unnecessary and created a drama that wasn’t needed in this beautiful story. True love can come with great sacrifices but what you gain can truly be worth it in the end! Now excuse us while we go make some cocktails…. courtesy of Will English of course!
“Well, if there had to be one who got away, she might as well have been the best damn catch, I could have imagined.”
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September 28, 2021
Rachel Higginson's new adult contemporary romance novel is true to her brand of "happily ever after with a satisfying twist." Decisions We Make After Midnight is a story about a young woman, Lola Ellis, who is set adrift in despair after finding her fiancé Owen has been habitually unfaithful throughout their six-year relationship. Lola seeks solace from her parents, but they believe their daughter should continue her relationship with Owen and perhaps even marry him for the sake of the family business. Feeling betrayed by almost everyone in her life, Lola leaves behind her high-stress career in Chicago, her family, and her cheating ex-fiancé.
After landing on her best friend's doorstep in Durham, North Carolina, Lola tries to pick up the pieces of her rapidly imploding world. Her privileged lifestyle evaporates amid an onslaught of depression and a growing aversion to obtaining a career as a life-goal aspiration. None of this changes the fact that Lola needs money to survive. So she applies for a waitressing position in a high-end cocktail bar called Craft. Despite her woeful lack of industry experience, Lola’s hired immediately due to a severe staffing shortage and general desperation from Craft's management to fill the position. On her first evening at work, Lola comes face-to-face with her terrifying and disdainful (yet extremely handsome and virile) new boss, Will English, who finds Lola's lack of competence in their fast-paced world unforgivable. Nearly.
"The females of the world were not ready for Will English happy. Maybe he knew that. Which is why he locked those smiles up so tightly." --Decisions We Make After Midnight.
The poignancy of the story, as ever, balances well with Higginson's sarcastic wit and her clever understanding of the struggles of everyday life. Higginson's characters have real depth and capture the pandemic zeitgeist cravings for community over career and the turning away from unfulfilling online voyeurism toward in-person human interaction. But here, too, in the end, Higginson seems to find a compromise between dependency versus individualism and the theory that less is more versus the idea that ever-increasing monetary success is evolution.
I love everything that Rachel writes. I love her voice. I love her compassion. I finished this book feeling strangely happy. (I say "strangely" because happy isn't my typical vibe.) It still took me a few days to write this review, though, because, on the surface, DWMAM presents as a straight-up romance novel, but when I thought about it more, it wasn't that at all. Or maybe it was, and I just saw something else in it? I don't know. What I think I saw in it was the thought that it's okay to chuck out the things that aren't working in your life. All the things. In a world that quite literally might be crumbling under our feet, what is truly important? Maybe what's essential is something as simple and as complex as love.
After landing on her best friend's doorstep in Durham, North Carolina, Lola tries to pick up the pieces of her rapidly imploding world. Her privileged lifestyle evaporates amid an onslaught of depression and a growing aversion to obtaining a career as a life-goal aspiration. None of this changes the fact that Lola needs money to survive. So she applies for a waitressing position in a high-end cocktail bar called Craft. Despite her woeful lack of industry experience, Lola’s hired immediately due to a severe staffing shortage and general desperation from Craft's management to fill the position. On her first evening at work, Lola comes face-to-face with her terrifying and disdainful (yet extremely handsome and virile) new boss, Will English, who finds Lola's lack of competence in their fast-paced world unforgivable. Nearly.
"The females of the world were not ready for Will English happy. Maybe he knew that. Which is why he locked those smiles up so tightly." --Decisions We Make After Midnight.
The poignancy of the story, as ever, balances well with Higginson's sarcastic wit and her clever understanding of the struggles of everyday life. Higginson's characters have real depth and capture the pandemic zeitgeist cravings for community over career and the turning away from unfulfilling online voyeurism toward in-person human interaction. But here, too, in the end, Higginson seems to find a compromise between dependency versus individualism and the theory that less is more versus the idea that ever-increasing monetary success is evolution.
I love everything that Rachel writes. I love her voice. I love her compassion. I finished this book feeling strangely happy. (I say "strangely" because happy isn't my typical vibe.) It still took me a few days to write this review, though, because, on the surface, DWMAM presents as a straight-up romance novel, but when I thought about it more, it wasn't that at all. Or maybe it was, and I just saw something else in it? I don't know. What I think I saw in it was the thought that it's okay to chuck out the things that aren't working in your life. All the things. In a world that quite literally might be crumbling under our feet, what is truly important? Maybe what's essential is something as simple and as complex as love.
September 18, 2021
Decisions We Make After Midnight was just filled with my favorite sorts of catnip: grumpy hero, playful banter, and the kind of swoon that makes my heart sit up and take notice while the butterflies do their crazy dance in my belly. That is to say: Lo and Will were ah-mazing and I loved every moment I spent in their story.
I loved the burn between Lo and Will - it was slow, but not too slow. It was almost reluctantly sweet (which made it all the sweeter) and completely organic. Their interactions felt so authentic and adorable. I loved how they fit each other, I loved how they worked through their conflict together. I loved...basically everything. So much.
There's something magnetic in the way Rachel Higginson crafts her stories. There I was, reading about a bartender and a waitress and feeling like I was right there, in the bar, with all the atmosphere and moodiness and smells and...well, alcohol. Maybe it's because I spent some of my formative adult years in bars, in Durham, after midnight (so in a sense, this was a deja vu experience for me), but the whole thing felt so sensual to me - I took the ride with Lo and Will and it felt so good.
If you're a loyal Rachel Higginson reader, you'll delight at some familiar faces who crop up in this book. If this is your first foray - you won't be disappointed. The secondary character game was so strong (holy Moses - there were some scene stealers tucked in here). It truly was such a deliciously angsty, saucy, fun read that left me emotionally satisfied and dying for more from this series! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
I loved the burn between Lo and Will - it was slow, but not too slow. It was almost reluctantly sweet (which made it all the sweeter) and completely organic. Their interactions felt so authentic and adorable. I loved how they fit each other, I loved how they worked through their conflict together. I loved...basically everything. So much.
There's something magnetic in the way Rachel Higginson crafts her stories. There I was, reading about a bartender and a waitress and feeling like I was right there, in the bar, with all the atmosphere and moodiness and smells and...well, alcohol. Maybe it's because I spent some of my formative adult years in bars, in Durham, after midnight (so in a sense, this was a deja vu experience for me), but the whole thing felt so sensual to me - I took the ride with Lo and Will and it felt so good.
If you're a loyal Rachel Higginson reader, you'll delight at some familiar faces who crop up in this book. If this is your first foray - you won't be disappointed. The secondary character game was so strong (holy Moses - there were some scene stealers tucked in here). It truly was such a deliciously angsty, saucy, fun read that left me emotionally satisfied and dying for more from this series! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
September 30, 2021
Lola and her twin brother Edison have been groomed to work in their father's successful business. After graduating college with their required degrees, they were immersed into their pre paved out careers with very generous salaries. Having said that, they both work very hard and are very dedicated to their jobs.
Lola has been with her boyfriend Owen for quite a few years now and not long ago got engaged to him. That all came to a screeching halt when she recently found out she wasn’t the only girl in his life, actually that is a bit of an understatement, he has multiple other women who are on speed dial. There is no way she will be walking down the aisle now or ever. However, the response from her father left her fuming and taking a detour to stay with her best friend on her way to Florida.
Needing some time to lick her wounds and make sense of her life now, Lola couch surfs with Reese and gets a casual job as a waitress at a bar called Craft. It is owned by three siblings who quite often have high volume scream filled discussions about how to run their business. This is where Reese meets Will English. He is the quieter of the three siblings and is initially quite gruff and serious. It is appealing though because he is all gorgeous and brooding and she occasionally gets glimpses of a semi smile.
‘His expression was charming and sweet and amused. I could have fallen into that expression and lived there. I never wanted to see another expression again in my life. Just that one. On that face. Forever and ever, amen.’
Will is a very skilled cocktail artist and most nights he gives Lola a lesson on different flavour combinations for drinks as she has no experience and wants to be more knowledgeable for her customers. She has never worked so hard in her life, in the physical sense, her feet are aching and she falls into bed most nights well after 3.00am and rises at lunchtime. She is loving it though and especially the time she spends with Will. He is so easy to talk to and she soon opens up about her personal life.
‘I was still a fragile, brokenhearted mess. I needed to put my heart back together again before I started throwing it at anyone else - rebound or otherwise.’
There is this simmering attraction between Will and Lola that they both dance around for a while. There is plenty of flirtation and a few delicious kisses. Lola has never experienced this sort of connection before, she feels so good when she is with Will. He too is a bit wary of giving himself completely to someone who is only going to temporarily be in his life but it may already be too late.
‘I was falling too quickly for this man. This man who challenged me, and taught me, and made me laugh. Who looked at me like I was the most delicious meal he’d ever eaten and then cradled me and cherished me like I was the most precious thing he’d ever held.’
Lola can’t avoid her problems forever, as much as she enjoys existing in this bubble she has with Will, she needs to haul arse to Florida and face what she has been avoiding for weeks now. Sometimes people come into our lives for reasons we don’t understand until after the moment. Being with Will has given her clarity on what she wants in a future relationship, she will carry that with her always.
I love a slow burning romance and this story feeds into that need beautifully :) It makes the eventual coupling so much hotter, all that pent up desire that boils over, making the connection even more intensely felt. I’m looking forward to more in this series, there is one couple in particular that I’m hoping get their own book so fingers crossed!
Sidenote: If you have read the Opposites Attract series from Rachel you will enjoy some chef cameos from those books in this story.
Lola has been with her boyfriend Owen for quite a few years now and not long ago got engaged to him. That all came to a screeching halt when she recently found out she wasn’t the only girl in his life, actually that is a bit of an understatement, he has multiple other women who are on speed dial. There is no way she will be walking down the aisle now or ever. However, the response from her father left her fuming and taking a detour to stay with her best friend on her way to Florida.
Needing some time to lick her wounds and make sense of her life now, Lola couch surfs with Reese and gets a casual job as a waitress at a bar called Craft. It is owned by three siblings who quite often have high volume scream filled discussions about how to run their business. This is where Reese meets Will English. He is the quieter of the three siblings and is initially quite gruff and serious. It is appealing though because he is all gorgeous and brooding and she occasionally gets glimpses of a semi smile.
‘His expression was charming and sweet and amused. I could have fallen into that expression and lived there. I never wanted to see another expression again in my life. Just that one. On that face. Forever and ever, amen.’
Will is a very skilled cocktail artist and most nights he gives Lola a lesson on different flavour combinations for drinks as she has no experience and wants to be more knowledgeable for her customers. She has never worked so hard in her life, in the physical sense, her feet are aching and she falls into bed most nights well after 3.00am and rises at lunchtime. She is loving it though and especially the time she spends with Will. He is so easy to talk to and she soon opens up about her personal life.
‘I was still a fragile, brokenhearted mess. I needed to put my heart back together again before I started throwing it at anyone else - rebound or otherwise.’
There is this simmering attraction between Will and Lola that they both dance around for a while. There is plenty of flirtation and a few delicious kisses. Lola has never experienced this sort of connection before, she feels so good when she is with Will. He too is a bit wary of giving himself completely to someone who is only going to temporarily be in his life but it may already be too late.
‘I was falling too quickly for this man. This man who challenged me, and taught me, and made me laugh. Who looked at me like I was the most delicious meal he’d ever eaten and then cradled me and cherished me like I was the most precious thing he’d ever held.’
Lola can’t avoid her problems forever, as much as she enjoys existing in this bubble she has with Will, she needs to haul arse to Florida and face what she has been avoiding for weeks now. Sometimes people come into our lives for reasons we don’t understand until after the moment. Being with Will has given her clarity on what she wants in a future relationship, she will carry that with her always.
I love a slow burning romance and this story feeds into that need beautifully :) It makes the eventual coupling so much hotter, all that pent up desire that boils over, making the connection even more intensely felt. I’m looking forward to more in this series, there is one couple in particular that I’m hoping get their own book so fingers crossed!
Sidenote: If you have read the Opposites Attract series from Rachel you will enjoy some chef cameos from those books in this story.
October 27, 2021
4 Stars
Review by Jen Skewes
I have always loved Rachel Higginson’s books, but it has been a little while since I have read one. I am so happy that I got the chance to read ad review this book. Decisions We Make After Midnight is the first book in a new series. But It is actually a spin-off of the last series that I have read by Ms. Higginson.
Lola is supposed to be on her way to Florida to open up a new store for her family business. But given the new-found information on her fiancé, she decides to make a stop in North Carolina to visit her best friend. She is not ready to face her family or her ex. The hurt is still very fresh, and she needs some time. Her life has more or less been planned out for her. She has been working for the family business and this new opportunity in Florida is something she wanted. Then her relationship takes a bad turn, and she starts to question everything. Not ready to face it all she gets herself a job, ignores her family’s calls and spends time with her best friend. At some point she will have to face them all, but this is one thing she is going to do on her terms.
Will English is the broody, grumpy, good looking bar owner and Lola’s new boss. She has never been a waitress a day in her life. And while filling about a job application was completely spontaneous; she has no idea if she can even do this job. But she needs the money, because as of now she has no intention on using her family’s money. Will is not thrilled with the new girl with no experience. So much so that he has no problem letting her know. But when her shift is over and it’s just them, something happens between them. This connection, a friendship if you will. Lola sees a different side of Will; one I am sure not many see. But she is still dealing with all of her baggage that she isn’t sure they can ever be anything more than friends. Or so she thinks.
I loved this book. It is a wonderful start of a friendship that turns into so much more. It is a slow burn that keeps you on your toes, wondering when they will finally give in. Will may have been a bit stand offish but that’s what I loved about him. It added to his sex appeal. And then seeing just how much Lola affected him is what got me. I loved seeing Lola really open up and grow to be this woman who learns to stand up for herself and not give in to everyone controlling her life. She finally gets a backbone and I loved ti.
I loved that we get to see some characters from Ms. Higginson’s other series. That was a great treat. I am looking forward to more from this family of characters. There was certainly more to this story then just Lola and Will. It is about the friendships she built with the other owners at the bar and of course her best friend who is always there for her. My only issues was that I wished there was less of Lola’s inner monologue and more conversation between her and Will. But other than that, I loved it. Cannot wait for the next one in the series.
Review by Jen Skewes
I have always loved Rachel Higginson’s books, but it has been a little while since I have read one. I am so happy that I got the chance to read ad review this book. Decisions We Make After Midnight is the first book in a new series. But It is actually a spin-off of the last series that I have read by Ms. Higginson.
Lola is supposed to be on her way to Florida to open up a new store for her family business. But given the new-found information on her fiancé, she decides to make a stop in North Carolina to visit her best friend. She is not ready to face her family or her ex. The hurt is still very fresh, and she needs some time. Her life has more or less been planned out for her. She has been working for the family business and this new opportunity in Florida is something she wanted. Then her relationship takes a bad turn, and she starts to question everything. Not ready to face it all she gets herself a job, ignores her family’s calls and spends time with her best friend. At some point she will have to face them all, but this is one thing she is going to do on her terms.
Will English is the broody, grumpy, good looking bar owner and Lola’s new boss. She has never been a waitress a day in her life. And while filling about a job application was completely spontaneous; she has no idea if she can even do this job. But she needs the money, because as of now she has no intention on using her family’s money. Will is not thrilled with the new girl with no experience. So much so that he has no problem letting her know. But when her shift is over and it’s just them, something happens between them. This connection, a friendship if you will. Lola sees a different side of Will; one I am sure not many see. But she is still dealing with all of her baggage that she isn’t sure they can ever be anything more than friends. Or so she thinks.
I loved this book. It is a wonderful start of a friendship that turns into so much more. It is a slow burn that keeps you on your toes, wondering when they will finally give in. Will may have been a bit stand offish but that’s what I loved about him. It added to his sex appeal. And then seeing just how much Lola affected him is what got me. I loved seeing Lola really open up and grow to be this woman who learns to stand up for herself and not give in to everyone controlling her life. She finally gets a backbone and I loved ti.
I loved that we get to see some characters from Ms. Higginson’s other series. That was a great treat. I am looking forward to more from this family of characters. There was certainly more to this story then just Lola and Will. It is about the friendships she built with the other owners at the bar and of course her best friend who is always there for her. My only issues was that I wished there was less of Lola’s inner monologue and more conversation between her and Will. But other than that, I loved it. Cannot wait for the next one in the series.
September 28, 2021
‘It was life. I wanted to start living a life that was mine and not just watching from the outside.’
We’ve loved books by Rachel Higginson in the past so when Decisions We Make After Midnight, book one in her new series Decisions in Durham landed on our kindles we jumped straight in. We were immediately swept up in a sweet and funny romance. Lola Ellis is stuck in a life that’s been mapped out for her by her parents and she’s about to make the biggest commitment of her life, under what you may call ‘duress’ or heavy family pressure. Taking a timeout to go into hiding at her best mate’s house, Lola finds herself in unchartered waters when she applies for a waitress job and becomes spellbound by one of the bar owners. She’s so far out of her comfort zone and her ‘beige’ life that everything becomes a tad overwhelming but oh so very interesting suddenly. Keeping who she is and what her family does a secret, Lola not only finds strength and conviction she never knew was within her, but she also finds a man she never knew she needed in her life.
“You’re playing with fire, Lola.”
“I’m not scared…Not of you, Will English.”
“Maybe you should be.”
Will English is such a moody and stand-off-ish bloke, but hey, that’s what makes him so appealing, a serious but fabulous personality, with that attractive sarcastic dry wit. You just know there’s going to be so much more to this man than meets the eye. Between him and his two siblings, the bar they own comes across as a bit of a madhouse. But a posh one at that! We have to say, we were so intrigued by them all and hope they get their own book too.
‘Nothing about Will was forgettable. Not last night nor all the nights before. Not even this morning. He didn’t just stop by for a brief hello during my life. He’d barged in, cleared out a whole lot of space, and set up camp.’
This romance was a real feel-good read, it’s also a wonderfully slow build despite that initial strong attraction. The characters had great connection and chemistry, as well as maturity and hilarious banter. The romance was swoony and somehow vulnerable, as both Lola and Will reassessed their priorities and what they want out of life. We do have to admit that one part made our hearts break for Will after a certain scene with Lola, and we questioned the why’s of it. Whilst we applauded her convictions of change, the way she went about it seemed unnecessary and created a drama that wasn’t needed in this beautiful story. True love can come with great sacrifices but what you gain can truly be worth it in the end! Now excuse us while we go make some cocktails…. courtesy of Will English of course!
“Well, if there had to be one who got away, she might as well have been the best damn catch, I could have imagined.”
Ebook
Paperback
September 28, 2021
4.5 Stars!!
“All I wanted to do was hold his again. And again. And maybe keep holding it until my world was right side up again. Because somehow, I knew, I just knew, that he would be the one to help me get everything in order again if I let him.”
“It was like I’d been frolicking along this sidewalk of easy and fun, totally carefree. And then this black hole had just opened in front of me, and I’d fallen in without missing a step. Suddenly I was swallowed whole by emotions that were so much bigger. So much grater than I was ready for.”
Decisions We Make After Midnight is the exciting new release from author Rachel Higginson. I don’t know about you guys, but I have been anxiously waiting for something new from this author, and she does not disappoint!
Set in Durham, North Carolina, Decisions We Make After Midnight follows the story of Lola and Will. Lola lived the picture perfect life until one day it all came crashing down. Now she finds herself questioning her family’s motives and her life decisions. Unsure of her next move, Lola seeks refuge with her bestie in North Carolina. Lola had hoped that her last minute detour would provide her with some much needed clarity and a handle on her future. But what Lola hadn’t planned on was Will….
Decisions We Make After Midnight pulled me in from the very first page. I felt an instant connection with Lola and was excited to see where her story would go. You see, when we first meet up with Lola, she’s in a bit of a personal crisis. Her life has been turned upside down and the only thing she knows is that she needs time before making any big decisions. Her trip to North Carolina ended up being more than just a soul searching journey for her and I enjoyed every moment of it. Lola grew a lot as a character and learned to stand up for herself, but to live the life she wants to live. I enjoyed her banter with Will and how she didn’t put up with his broodiness. Speaking of Will, I knew he was going to be amazing right from the get go. He was broody and seemed like one mean dude. But there was so much more to him than meets the eye. Will has a heart of gold, he just need the right person to bring it out.
The tension and banter between Will and Lola was off the charts. I loved how they took things slow and really got to know one another. I appreciated how Will didn’t try to rush Lola into anything or make any life altering decisions. They met at the absolute wrong time in Lola’s life, but I loved how Will opened her eyes to a world of possibilities and made her see didn’t need perfect to live a happily life. Will and Lola were an undeniable force and I was definitely rooting for them to get their happily ever after.
The Decisions We Make After Midnight is an enjoyable read from beginning to end. Will and Lola captivated my heart from page one and I couldn’t help but devour their story. The Decisions We Make After Midnight is well written and entertaining. It’s filled with love and second chances. It’s got a sweet, slow burning romance. It’s got just the right amount of drama. And is a story of finding oneself, learning to stand up for yourself, and recognizing real love when you find it. I fell in love with every aspect of this story and am so excited to dive further into this series. This book checked off all of my boxes and all I can say is “Give Me More!!”.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“All I wanted to do was hold his again. And again. And maybe keep holding it until my world was right side up again. Because somehow, I knew, I just knew, that he would be the one to help me get everything in order again if I let him.”
“It was like I’d been frolicking along this sidewalk of easy and fun, totally carefree. And then this black hole had just opened in front of me, and I’d fallen in without missing a step. Suddenly I was swallowed whole by emotions that were so much bigger. So much grater than I was ready for.”
Decisions We Make After Midnight is the exciting new release from author Rachel Higginson. I don’t know about you guys, but I have been anxiously waiting for something new from this author, and she does not disappoint!
Set in Durham, North Carolina, Decisions We Make After Midnight follows the story of Lola and Will. Lola lived the picture perfect life until one day it all came crashing down. Now she finds herself questioning her family’s motives and her life decisions. Unsure of her next move, Lola seeks refuge with her bestie in North Carolina. Lola had hoped that her last minute detour would provide her with some much needed clarity and a handle on her future. But what Lola hadn’t planned on was Will….
Decisions We Make After Midnight pulled me in from the very first page. I felt an instant connection with Lola and was excited to see where her story would go. You see, when we first meet up with Lola, she’s in a bit of a personal crisis. Her life has been turned upside down and the only thing she knows is that she needs time before making any big decisions. Her trip to North Carolina ended up being more than just a soul searching journey for her and I enjoyed every moment of it. Lola grew a lot as a character and learned to stand up for herself, but to live the life she wants to live. I enjoyed her banter with Will and how she didn’t put up with his broodiness. Speaking of Will, I knew he was going to be amazing right from the get go. He was broody and seemed like one mean dude. But there was so much more to him than meets the eye. Will has a heart of gold, he just need the right person to bring it out.
The tension and banter between Will and Lola was off the charts. I loved how they took things slow and really got to know one another. I appreciated how Will didn’t try to rush Lola into anything or make any life altering decisions. They met at the absolute wrong time in Lola’s life, but I loved how Will opened her eyes to a world of possibilities and made her see didn’t need perfect to live a happily life. Will and Lola were an undeniable force and I was definitely rooting for them to get their happily ever after.
The Decisions We Make After Midnight is an enjoyable read from beginning to end. Will and Lola captivated my heart from page one and I couldn’t help but devour their story. The Decisions We Make After Midnight is well written and entertaining. It’s filled with love and second chances. It’s got a sweet, slow burning romance. It’s got just the right amount of drama. And is a story of finding oneself, learning to stand up for yourself, and recognizing real love when you find it. I fell in love with every aspect of this story and am so excited to dive further into this series. This book checked off all of my boxes and all I can say is “Give Me More!!”.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Want to read
June 2, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/2/2022)! 🎁
November 25, 2022
Loved this.
April 27, 2024
Not my favorite book written by Higginson, but still good for what it was. Loved that characters from her other books made an appearance. Also makes me want to check out Durham’s food scene. 🤤
September 14, 2021
I couldn't put this book down. The premise of this book was very interesting. Will is a grumpy owner of a bar with his siblings. Lola starts waitressing there because she needed an escape to life. Of course, there is going to be sparks and chemistry.
I loved seeing their relationship change and open up to each other. The other staff at Craft was amazing too and I can definitely see some future books on some of these people. I'm betting there is one for Jonah and Eliza, Charlie and Ada, and maybe Edison and Reese? Anyways, it was also great to see characters from previous books. I loved seeing Killian and Vera in this book along with other ones that I have yet to read.
There was one thing that bothered me and maybe it was just a preference thing but there was so much internal thinking from Lola. I mean several paragraphs of her thought process and analyzing her situation. I mean it works because this book was about her discovering herself but it came to a point where I had to go back to figure out what the previous dialogue was because it was so long ago. It really made following some conversations and dialogue in the book hard.
Overall, this was a good book. I couldn't stop reading it and loved Will and loved seeing Lola grow throughout this book. I'm definitely curious to read more about other characters in this world.
I loved seeing their relationship change and open up to each other. The other staff at Craft was amazing too and I can definitely see some future books on some of these people. I'm betting there is one for Jonah and Eliza, Charlie and Ada, and maybe Edison and Reese? Anyways, it was also great to see characters from previous books. I loved seeing Killian and Vera in this book along with other ones that I have yet to read.
There was one thing that bothered me and maybe it was just a preference thing but there was so much internal thinking from Lola. I mean several paragraphs of her thought process and analyzing her situation. I mean it works because this book was about her discovering herself but it came to a point where I had to go back to figure out what the previous dialogue was because it was so long ago. It really made following some conversations and dialogue in the book hard.
Overall, this was a good book. I couldn't stop reading it and loved Will and loved seeing Lola grow throughout this book. I'm definitely curious to read more about other characters in this world.
August 4, 2022
RATING: B-
"I'd been so determined to be okay with leaving, I hadn't really let myself realize how badly I wanted to stay."
******************
I said it before in a previous reading update, but after struggling to pick up any book I was reading, all it took for me to finally follow through with something was a good old-fashioned Rachel Higginson. I started reading her books back when I was about twelve years old, and I've always loved her ability to make me fall. Even if I find they aren't the best books on a technical or objective level, I can never put a single one down. I'm always enraptured by her characters and their journeys and the people they meet along the way, and this venture was no different.
I especially love the setup of this book as it shows us a lonely, heartbroken businesswoman who takes a spontaneous trip to see her best friend and get away from her troubles. It plays out as more of a self-discovery with a romantic side-plot rather than the other way around, but I didn't mind it one bit.
This definitely could have had a higher rating because a lot of the character dynamics and interactions had me smiling like a fool and even kicking my feet at times, but a thing I noticed, and especially near the end, is that the conflict tends to rush. At first there's this tension between our two main characters, Lola and Will. They don't get along at the start, and then in the bat of an eye, Will lets down his "intimidating mean guy" persona and warms up to Lola in no time. While I certainly liked both halves of their arc together, it was an odd shift that seemed to come out of left field. And every other conflict in the last couple chapters seemed like it wrapped up too quickly as well. To put it in perspective, this book isn't even 300 pages long. It just didn't feel right to me.
Regardless, none of that took away from my overall enjoyment. I loved the setting, loved the characters and their dynamics, and may I just say, the title of this book may probably be one of my favorite book titles ever. It PERFECTLY matches the energy and journey it takes you on without being a blunt quote or phrase from the story.
I'll definitely be adding this to the list of Higginson favorites!!
"I'd been so determined to be okay with leaving, I hadn't really let myself realize how badly I wanted to stay."
******************
I said it before in a previous reading update, but after struggling to pick up any book I was reading, all it took for me to finally follow through with something was a good old-fashioned Rachel Higginson. I started reading her books back when I was about twelve years old, and I've always loved her ability to make me fall. Even if I find they aren't the best books on a technical or objective level, I can never put a single one down. I'm always enraptured by her characters and their journeys and the people they meet along the way, and this venture was no different.
I especially love the setup of this book as it shows us a lonely, heartbroken businesswoman who takes a spontaneous trip to see her best friend and get away from her troubles. It plays out as more of a self-discovery with a romantic side-plot rather than the other way around, but I didn't mind it one bit.
This definitely could have had a higher rating because a lot of the character dynamics and interactions had me smiling like a fool and even kicking my feet at times, but a thing I noticed, and especially near the end, is that the conflict tends to rush. At first there's this tension between our two main characters, Lola and Will. They don't get along at the start, and then in the bat of an eye, Will lets down his "intimidating mean guy" persona and warms up to Lola in no time. While I certainly liked both halves of their arc together, it was an odd shift that seemed to come out of left field. And every other conflict in the last couple chapters seemed like it wrapped up too quickly as well. To put it in perspective, this book isn't even 300 pages long. It just didn't feel right to me.
Regardless, none of that took away from my overall enjoyment. I loved the setting, loved the characters and their dynamics, and may I just say, the title of this book may probably be one of my favorite book titles ever. It PERFECTLY matches the energy and journey it takes you on without being a blunt quote or phrase from the story.
I'll definitely be adding this to the list of Higginson favorites!!
August 4, 2022
With the expectation to take over the family business, Lola finds herself graduating from college and doubting the direction her life was headed. Dedicated to her job, Lola finds herself with a husband on the horizon who will also be a part of her family legacy.
Those well thought out plans for Lola’s life derailed when she discovered that Owen was cheating on her in earnest. Discovering that this is not an isolated incident, Lola begins to question everything that she has mapped out in her life. Looking for support from her family, Lola quickly realizes that her father still expects her to ‘seal the deal’ where Owen is concerned.
Determined to reexamine her future plans, Lola seeks refuge at her best friend’s home in North Carolina. Life with Reese consists of couch surfing and confiding in the one person Lola knows will always look out for her best interests. Lola decides to take a waitressing job at a hot new bar called Craft. Without much experience waitressing, Lola immerses herself in the job. It is just the escape that Lola needs to keep her mind of dealing with her family.
As Lola tries to soak in everything she can to help her serve her customers better, she starts to have one on one experiences with the crafter of the business – Will. With 3am closings, the duo finds themselves spending more time together than expected. The intensity between the duo ignites, but Lola knows her stay in North Carolina is only temporary. Family expectations are looming, and Lola knows that this life she has created for herself won’t last forever. Will Lola find the life that is calling her soul? Can she find a way to dispel her family’s expectations and still discover the happiness that she so desperately desires?
Decisions We Make After Midnight is a great slow burn romance from Rachel Higginson. The plot of this story pulled me in right away, and I found myself immersed in the budding romance between Lola and Will. The way the author builds the foundation with secondary characters makes this book feel like you are watching a movie. I can’t wait to watch this series unfold!!
Those well thought out plans for Lola’s life derailed when she discovered that Owen was cheating on her in earnest. Discovering that this is not an isolated incident, Lola begins to question everything that she has mapped out in her life. Looking for support from her family, Lola quickly realizes that her father still expects her to ‘seal the deal’ where Owen is concerned.
Determined to reexamine her future plans, Lola seeks refuge at her best friend’s home in North Carolina. Life with Reese consists of couch surfing and confiding in the one person Lola knows will always look out for her best interests. Lola decides to take a waitressing job at a hot new bar called Craft. Without much experience waitressing, Lola immerses herself in the job. It is just the escape that Lola needs to keep her mind of dealing with her family.
As Lola tries to soak in everything she can to help her serve her customers better, she starts to have one on one experiences with the crafter of the business – Will. With 3am closings, the duo finds themselves spending more time together than expected. The intensity between the duo ignites, but Lola knows her stay in North Carolina is only temporary. Family expectations are looming, and Lola knows that this life she has created for herself won’t last forever. Will Lola find the life that is calling her soul? Can she find a way to dispel her family’s expectations and still discover the happiness that she so desperately desires?
Decisions We Make After Midnight is a great slow burn romance from Rachel Higginson. The plot of this story pulled me in right away, and I found myself immersed in the budding romance between Lola and Will. The way the author builds the foundation with secondary characters makes this book feel like you are watching a movie. I can’t wait to watch this series unfold!!
June 5, 2022
Midnight Fun.
3.5 ⭐️
There is plenty to love about this book, a love story between a bar owner and a career woman who’s taking time out to find herself after a nasty breakup. She hides out at her besties place in Durham before having to rejoin her family in Miami. What she wasn’t expecting on this trip is to find a group of like minded people, enjoy working nights instead of early mornings and find the man she was meant to be with. It’s about fate, loyalty and trust. Lola meets Will at the wrong time, in the wrong place (state) and their lives are complicated but they had to find a way to blend them.
I really like most of this tale, but there’s a lot of inner dialogue from Lola, which gets repetitive on her past and family business and dynamics. I don’t need to be told time and again Lola’s circumstances prior to Durham or beyond were hard and heartbreaking, I much preferred the interactions from all the characters, and the bonus ones from a previous series. I’m not sure how many books there will be, although I know that next up is Will’s sister Eliza with his best friend Jonah. I suspect the youngest English sibling Charlie will get his own book too…just still trying to guess who his leading lady might be. I do hope all the gang find their HEA.
3.5 ⭐️
There is plenty to love about this book, a love story between a bar owner and a career woman who’s taking time out to find herself after a nasty breakup. She hides out at her besties place in Durham before having to rejoin her family in Miami. What she wasn’t expecting on this trip is to find a group of like minded people, enjoy working nights instead of early mornings and find the man she was meant to be with. It’s about fate, loyalty and trust. Lola meets Will at the wrong time, in the wrong place (state) and their lives are complicated but they had to find a way to blend them.
I really like most of this tale, but there’s a lot of inner dialogue from Lola, which gets repetitive on her past and family business and dynamics. I don’t need to be told time and again Lola’s circumstances prior to Durham or beyond were hard and heartbreaking, I much preferred the interactions from all the characters, and the bonus ones from a previous series. I’m not sure how many books there will be, although I know that next up is Will’s sister Eliza with his best friend Jonah. I suspect the youngest English sibling Charlie will get his own book too…just still trying to guess who his leading lady might be. I do hope all the gang find their HEA.
March 3, 2022
I first found Rachel Higginson when I read Trailer Park Heart way back when and fell head over heels with the story. I tried a few of her other books but couldn’t get into them at the time. Recently this one kept popping up and I thought why not? The end result was a bit of a disappointment.. this year has a lot of those for me!!
The book starts off with all the things I love, a heroine running from family / Ex Boyfriend drama, rooming with her ride or die bestie in a small town, where she Dundas a job she’s crap at and has a moody broody boss man. There’s a promise of hot sex, a surrogate family and small town friendships that will have you skipping through a field of daisies gleefully.
Unfortunately what you get is a watered down version of that. Where there could have been extra dialogue between characters, building relationships between the MC’s and the side characters, what we got instead was lots of repetitive, unnecessary filler. I mean I don’t know how many times the heroine mentioned that her father was selfish or that she needed time. There was so much room for a bit of girlie friendship bonding, or some of Will’s story. It definitely felt lacking for want of a better description. Even the sexy times felt like warm. I didn’t feel the build up of wanting between Will & Lola, that sexual chemistry that sets the pages alight.
The book starts off with all the things I love, a heroine running from family / Ex Boyfriend drama, rooming with her ride or die bestie in a small town, where she Dundas a job she’s crap at and has a moody broody boss man. There’s a promise of hot sex, a surrogate family and small town friendships that will have you skipping through a field of daisies gleefully.
Unfortunately what you get is a watered down version of that. Where there could have been extra dialogue between characters, building relationships between the MC’s and the side characters, what we got instead was lots of repetitive, unnecessary filler. I mean I don’t know how many times the heroine mentioned that her father was selfish or that she needed time. There was so much room for a bit of girlie friendship bonding, or some of Will’s story. It definitely felt lacking for want of a better description. Even the sexy times felt like warm. I didn’t feel the build up of wanting between Will & Lola, that sexual chemistry that sets the pages alight.
September 30, 2021
"This wasn't supposed to happen. You were never supposed to happen. I was never even supposed to come to Durham, let alone find a reason to stay."
Decisions We Make After Midnight reads like a love letter to Durham and an ode to waitstaff everywhere.
While I enjoyed the story, it leaned far more towards Lola's journey of self-discovery with only a hint of slow-burn romance between her and Will. Honestly, based on the title alone, I thought it would have been steamier... With a little more substance to the slow-burn romance and more dialogue than monologue, I would have enjoyed the story more. Regardless, I adored the Opposites Attract series character cameos and am intrigued for possible stories for the siblings and friends introduced in the Decision in Durham series.
Decisions We Make After Midnight reads like a love letter to Durham and an ode to waitstaff everywhere.
While I enjoyed the story, it leaned far more towards Lola's journey of self-discovery with only a hint of slow-burn romance between her and Will. Honestly, based on the title alone, I thought it would have been steamier... With a little more substance to the slow-burn romance and more dialogue than monologue, I would have enjoyed the story more. Regardless, I adored the Opposites Attract series character cameos and am intrigued for possible stories for the siblings and friends introduced in the Decision in Durham series.
September 29, 2021
Great start to a new series. Lola Ellis' life has taken an abrupt detour to Durham, North Carolina, where she has spent the last several weeks escaping and reflecting, away from her family in Florida. The life that awaits her isn't one she recognizes as wanting for herself anymore. In the meantime, she's waitressing (and very badly at that) at Craft, trying her hand at an hourly job before she makes her next move. Will English, one of the owners as well as bartenders, gives off some broody and unforgiving vibes that would scare a lesser person away. Yet Lola is determined to make the best of the situation and her moxie has her showing up day after day, giving her best effort, which doesn't go ignored. Although Lola is used to being a boss at home, this uncharted territory makes her re-evaluate her priorities and to see what truly matters in a new light. In the meantime, Will is spending more time with her and their attraction is only growing. He's showing her how to appreciate things that she used to overlook. The author weaved in multiple dilemmas for Lola that were relatable and real, but yet she managed to keep a level head and to finally start living in the moment. Lola's tangent stop in Durham provided so many life lessons that when she does confront her family, she's changed into someone more self-assured, mature and independent. As much as I loved the writing, there is a lot of internal monologue in proportion to dialogue and I would've preferred more conversation. However, if there are plans for more stories regarding the other English siblings, I'm all in to see what else happens amongst this crew.
September 27, 2021
This book will want you making all the wildest decisions and in the best way ever!
Rachel brings us home again with all the new faces we meet here and some surprises as well. It felt so good to be back in her world of North Carolina.
There is an immense girl power happening in these pages, you definitely feel it right from the start. There is the overwhelmingly strong sense of family that never fades and then in true form there is the bond of two strangers who turn into more.
Lola is a woman we all I’m sure can’t wait to be friends with. All the ladies give support to each other that you can’t help but read cheering them all on.
Oh and wait until you meet Will, hello swoon! He brings grumpy to a whole new fiery level. He definitely is protective of his family, friends and business but we all know how quick that can change with a spark is lit.
Lola and Will, they definitely have something, have that spark, and they definitely make you want to reach for your own dreams just by reading theirs. This book will leave you feeling so happy and so excited for what is to come!
Rachel brings us home again with all the new faces we meet here and some surprises as well. It felt so good to be back in her world of North Carolina.
There is an immense girl power happening in these pages, you definitely feel it right from the start. There is the overwhelmingly strong sense of family that never fades and then in true form there is the bond of two strangers who turn into more.
Lola is a woman we all I’m sure can’t wait to be friends with. All the ladies give support to each other that you can’t help but read cheering them all on.
Oh and wait until you meet Will, hello swoon! He brings grumpy to a whole new fiery level. He definitely is protective of his family, friends and business but we all know how quick that can change with a spark is lit.
Lola and Will, they definitely have something, have that spark, and they definitely make you want to reach for your own dreams just by reading theirs. This book will leave you feeling so happy and so excited for what is to come!
November 21, 2021
Rachel Higginson knows how to write a HEA! I just adored 😍 ❤️ the love story in this novel. Perfect amount of snark, chemistry, drama and 💋 kissing!
December 17, 2021
Meh
It was good, not the best I've read from her but it was cute. It read like it was an obligation to push something out to please am editor and this is what we got
That ending though was so flat. It didn't feel finished
It was good, not the best I've read from her but it was cute. It read like it was an obligation to push something out to please am editor and this is what we got
That ending though was so flat. It didn't feel finished
September 28, 2021
Loved being back in Durham!! Really liked grumpy Will and all the staff at Craft. Enjoyed Lola and her growth! Can’t wait for more in this series. Anxious to see who gets the next book.
And loved of course seeing our old faves!
And loved of course seeing our old faves!
October 4, 2021
I loved this book, I think it's a great beginning for a new series. All characters are so well written, they catch my attention, I'd like to know them better, and I can't wait to read next books of this series. The author has such a good sense of humour, the humour is mixed with life problems, and the result is an excellent story about passionate, real people. I had so much fun reading about them.
September 28, 2021
I received an ARC for an honest review of Decisions We Make After Midnight.
Where to start?
I've always had a soft spot for Rachel Higginson's books. I started with Reckless Magic as a teenager and never looked back. I transitioned into new adult with her books too. To be honest, I don't think anything can beat my love for the Opposites Attract series. But I did enjoy reading DWMAM! It's fun, it's emotional, it's a story of two people who are not done learning and growing into better versions of themselves (although one can say that growth is a forever process!). Seeing Will open up to Lola, showing us how determined and kind he is, let me tell you, I was falling for him alongside Lola. I think Lola does say it best: there's only one Will English! And Lola! Girl! She didn't deserve to be stepped on the way she was by her own family, it was really great seeing her stand up for herself and realize her own worth. But one of my favourite things about this book is the reminder that there's no right "timeframe" to follow when falling in love. Sometimes it's instantaneous and other times it takes a while. Both are okay.
I give this book 4 stars because I loved the story, but I did have a few problems with the writing style....but I think that is partly because my own tastes have changed. All in all, I think it's worth the read!
Also loved the cameo's from some of our favourite Opposites Attract characters!!!
Where to start?
I've always had a soft spot for Rachel Higginson's books. I started with Reckless Magic as a teenager and never looked back. I transitioned into new adult with her books too. To be honest, I don't think anything can beat my love for the Opposites Attract series. But I did enjoy reading DWMAM! It's fun, it's emotional, it's a story of two people who are not done learning and growing into better versions of themselves (although one can say that growth is a forever process!). Seeing Will open up to Lola, showing us how determined and kind he is, let me tell you, I was falling for him alongside Lola. I think Lola does say it best: there's only one Will English! And Lola! Girl! She didn't deserve to be stepped on the way she was by her own family, it was really great seeing her stand up for herself and realize her own worth. But one of my favourite things about this book is the reminder that there's no right "timeframe" to follow when falling in love. Sometimes it's instantaneous and other times it takes a while. Both are okay.
I give this book 4 stars because I loved the story, but I did have a few problems with the writing style....but I think that is partly because my own tastes have changed. All in all, I think it's worth the read!
Also loved the cameo's from some of our favourite Opposites Attract characters!!!
June 18, 2022
4.5 stars!
Decisions We Make After Midnight is a sweet, swoony, romantic story about a woman who is headed to Florida for the business and a bar owner who never saw her coming. Lola takes a detour on her way down South and stops in Durham, NC because she just needs a breather from her life. Deciding to take some time away from the family company and her ex, she stays with her friend and gets a job at a bar to support herself.
Lola isn’t looking for love when she applies for a job as a bartender. She has been hurt by her family and ex, and her feelings and fears were really well written. I felt like I understood exactly what she was going through. It’s very much a story of self-discovery and growth. From heartache and expectations to becoming her own person, she grew a backbone and took time to heal and realize what she wants. The way she finally stands up for herself was wonderful.
I loved Will. When he is sweet, he is sweet. He’s had his own heartbreak and so he isn’t looking for a relationship. He comes across as serious and a hard and puts in such a strong front that he doesn’t let anyone see what’s under the surface. He’s carried hurt and burdens on his shoulders and I loved when he opened up and let us see the real Will who ends up being so swoony.
I really liked the connection Will and Lola share. Even though they didn’t want to be attracted to each other, there was this pull they couldn’t deny. The banter is great and the relationship forms when they least expect it. They end up being so good together and I adored their story.
The secondary characters are fantastic. From Will’s siblings to Lola’s friend and brother, I want more of this whole group and get their stories, too!!
*ARC generously provided by the author*
Decisions We Make After Midnight is a sweet, swoony, romantic story about a woman who is headed to Florida for the business and a bar owner who never saw her coming. Lola takes a detour on her way down South and stops in Durham, NC because she just needs a breather from her life. Deciding to take some time away from the family company and her ex, she stays with her friend and gets a job at a bar to support herself.
Lola isn’t looking for love when she applies for a job as a bartender. She has been hurt by her family and ex, and her feelings and fears were really well written. I felt like I understood exactly what she was going through. It’s very much a story of self-discovery and growth. From heartache and expectations to becoming her own person, she grew a backbone and took time to heal and realize what she wants. The way she finally stands up for herself was wonderful.
I loved Will. When he is sweet, he is sweet. He’s had his own heartbreak and so he isn’t looking for a relationship. He comes across as serious and a hard and puts in such a strong front that he doesn’t let anyone see what’s under the surface. He’s carried hurt and burdens on his shoulders and I loved when he opened up and let us see the real Will who ends up being so swoony.
I really liked the connection Will and Lola share. Even though they didn’t want to be attracted to each other, there was this pull they couldn’t deny. The banter is great and the relationship forms when they least expect it. They end up being so good together and I adored their story.
The secondary characters are fantastic. From Will’s siblings to Lola’s friend and brother, I want more of this whole group and get their stories, too!!
*ARC generously provided by the author*
September 15, 2021
RATING:
4 STARS
I was first introduced to Rachel Higginson’s books through her Star-Crossed series and her Starbright series, both of which are fantasy in genre. Those books set a high expectation for me when it comes to anything she writes. My first contemporary romance read by Ms. Higginson, Decisions We Make After Midnight, did not disappoint.
On paper, it looks like Lola Ellis, or “Lo” has it all. Good education, successful career, engaged to her long-time boyfriend Owen. In real life, however, things are not that simple. Time visiting her best friend in Durham, NC quickly turns into an escape from all the expectations awaiting her in Florida and she finds herself working in the neighborhood bar owned by the English siblings. Will English makes her question the way she's been thinking and what she wants in her future.
Will is an amazing love interest. While our first impressions of him paint him as a grumpy, persnickety bartender he really has a heart of gold under all that gruff. His perspective on how alcohol should be enjoyed really made me think about my own perspectives. Ms. Higginson's incorporation of the family drama into Will and Lola's relationship was really interesting (and important). When you're in a relationship with someone, their family usually comes as part of the package deal.
If you are a fan of emotion-filled, fun contemporary romance reads with some spiciness and rom-com elements thrown in then I highly recommend you pick up the first book in the Decisions in Durham series today. I don’t, however, recommend you start the book right before you go to bed though because if you are anything like me once you start this book you won’t want to stop.
I can’t wait to read more books in the series! I hope Eliza or Ada get featured next. Ms. Higginson brought up possible love interests for them in this book so I'm curious to see who they might end up with.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an early copy of this book! I appreciate the opportunity.
I was first introduced to Rachel Higginson’s books through her Star-Crossed series and her Starbright series, both of which are fantasy in genre. Those books set a high expectation for me when it comes to anything she writes. My first contemporary romance read by Ms. Higginson, Decisions We Make After Midnight, did not disappoint.
On paper, it looks like Lola Ellis, or “Lo” has it all. Good education, successful career, engaged to her long-time boyfriend Owen. In real life, however, things are not that simple. Time visiting her best friend in Durham, NC quickly turns into an escape from all the expectations awaiting her in Florida and she finds herself working in the neighborhood bar owned by the English siblings. Will English makes her question the way she's been thinking and what she wants in her future.
Will is an amazing love interest. While our first impressions of him paint him as a grumpy, persnickety bartender he really has a heart of gold under all that gruff. His perspective on how alcohol should be enjoyed really made me think about my own perspectives. Ms. Higginson's incorporation of the family drama into Will and Lola's relationship was really interesting (and important). When you're in a relationship with someone, their family usually comes as part of the package deal.
If you are a fan of emotion-filled, fun contemporary romance reads with some spiciness and rom-com elements thrown in then I highly recommend you pick up the first book in the Decisions in Durham series today. I don’t, however, recommend you start the book right before you go to bed though because if you are anything like me once you start this book you won’t want to stop.
I can’t wait to read more books in the series! I hope Eliza or Ada get featured next. Ms. Higginson brought up possible love interests for them in this book so I'm curious to see who they might end up with.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an early copy of this book! I appreciate the opportunity.
September 29, 2021
4 1/2 Star Read. This is my first read by Rachel and I loved it. Lola feels betrayed by her boyfriend as he constantly cheats on her. When she goes to her parents for advice her parents don't have any sympathy for her and encourage her to marry him for the sake of the family business. Fe dup with everything Lola goes to North Caroline to stay with her best friend Reese. She applies for a job and totally bitches it she thinks but gets hired on the spot due to a severe staff shortage. Nervous on her first night at Craft due to her lack of bar experience due to only having worked for her father her whole life. Not too sure about being paired up with the scary bartender Will especially when she keeps making mistakes during the night worried she might get fired on her first night. I loved the tension and chats Will and Lola have after work. Will is happy to take one day at a time with Lola and an understanding of what she's going through. Will makes her see her life in a new light and appreciate more things in life.
I received an arc for my honest review for NNBB. If you love a sweet romance you won't be able to pass this one up. Rachel hooks you right in from the first page and keeps you turning the pages until the very end.
I received an arc for my honest review for NNBB. If you love a sweet romance you won't be able to pass this one up. Rachel hooks you right in from the first page and keeps you turning the pages until the very end.
September 30, 2021
QUEEN
I love Rachel so much. Every time I see she has a new book released I download it immediately before I can even read the synopsis. Her characters are so fun and inevitably make you want them as your best friend.
“Decisions we make after midnight” was no exception. I am SO excited about this “Decisions in Durham” series. While I was obsessed with the main characters in this book I am equally invested in the side characters lives!
Lola Ellis is a smart, strong, loyal, go-getter, who has always done what’s best for the family business. You will LOVE reading her story as she finds herself!
Will is a grumpy small business owner who may or may not have a soft spot for the hopeless new waitress.
I loved how unique of a spin Rachel took with this book! Instead of having everything work out, no problem, HEA - she shows growth, determination, and a real perspective! I am a n HEA lover, and usually hate waiting to get to the “butterflies and rainbows”. Even though there wasn’t a magical solution for Will and Lola right away I sure smiled through their whole story till I got the happy ending we all love!
Oh, and I can’t forget to mention how much I love Lola’s friendship with Reese! Seriously goals.
5/5 ⭐️’s READ. THIS. BOOK.
I love Rachel so much. Every time I see she has a new book released I download it immediately before I can even read the synopsis. Her characters are so fun and inevitably make you want them as your best friend.
“Decisions we make after midnight” was no exception. I am SO excited about this “Decisions in Durham” series. While I was obsessed with the main characters in this book I am equally invested in the side characters lives!
Lola Ellis is a smart, strong, loyal, go-getter, who has always done what’s best for the family business. You will LOVE reading her story as she finds herself!
Will is a grumpy small business owner who may or may not have a soft spot for the hopeless new waitress.
I loved how unique of a spin Rachel took with this book! Instead of having everything work out, no problem, HEA - she shows growth, determination, and a real perspective! I am a n HEA lover, and usually hate waiting to get to the “butterflies and rainbows”. Even though there wasn’t a magical solution for Will and Lola right away I sure smiled through their whole story till I got the happy ending we all love!
Oh, and I can’t forget to mention how much I love Lola’s friendship with Reese! Seriously goals.
5/5 ⭐️’s READ. THIS. BOOK.
September 30, 2021
This sinfully sweet romance will make you swoon
Not only did I fall head over hills for Will and Lo, but every character in this book!
Will is a sinfully sex grump of a bar owner with a heart of gold and Lo is trying to find herself again after a relationship gone bad and no support from her parents. She leaves her life behind to stay with her best friend and starts working at craft as a waitress. With no experience outside of a corporate setting let's just say there were some casualties and more than one argument with her grumpy boss.
The relationship between these two was so sweet I found myself dreading the "romance story conflict" and just wanted them to stay the sweet duo that they were. But the way Rachel handled the conflict so well, I didn't see it coming and I loved that I didn't feel like everything was being torn apart!
This book was so good that I found myself reading it a second time in the short amount of time I have had access to the book just so I could highlight some of my favorite parts (in my kindle edition because I'm not a monster). I cannot wait to get a hard copy of this book to add to my collection, or for the next in the series to come out!
Not only did I fall head over hills for Will and Lo, but every character in this book!
Will is a sinfully sex grump of a bar owner with a heart of gold and Lo is trying to find herself again after a relationship gone bad and no support from her parents. She leaves her life behind to stay with her best friend and starts working at craft as a waitress. With no experience outside of a corporate setting let's just say there were some casualties and more than one argument with her grumpy boss.
The relationship between these two was so sweet I found myself dreading the "romance story conflict" and just wanted them to stay the sweet duo that they were. But the way Rachel handled the conflict so well, I didn't see it coming and I loved that I didn't feel like everything was being torn apart!
This book was so good that I found myself reading it a second time in the short amount of time I have had access to the book just so I could highlight some of my favorite parts (in my kindle edition because I'm not a monster). I cannot wait to get a hard copy of this book to add to my collection, or for the next in the series to come out!
October 16, 2021
******3.5 Stars*******
I just adore Rachel Higginson books. They are always entertaining an pack a nice emotional punch. I was excited to hear that Rachel was going to do a spin off series the opposite attracts series, which i adored. We meet Will English in that series and was always intrigued by him and was excited to get to read his story. Turns out he is a grump alpha and i'm here for it, lol.
Lola and Will is a light enemies to lovers story, which are the kind I like. I loved their banter and chemistry and their slow walk from friendship to love. I did find the author did the cliche thing to break them apart (trying not to give spoilers) that did feel immature and a bit callous and I wished The hero would have called out the heroine for what she did. but that his the only real hiccup in this story and can be a bit overlooked.
I also really enjoyed the friendship between Lola and her best friend Reese. I loved all their interactions and really see how Lola was able to heal from her horrible past and find what is the right thing for her.
If you enjoy slow burn romances, great friendships and zany characters then I think you will want to pick up this book!
*****Author Provided a Review Copy******
I just adore Rachel Higginson books. They are always entertaining an pack a nice emotional punch. I was excited to hear that Rachel was going to do a spin off series the opposite attracts series, which i adored. We meet Will English in that series and was always intrigued by him and was excited to get to read his story. Turns out he is a grump alpha and i'm here for it, lol.
Lola and Will is a light enemies to lovers story, which are the kind I like. I loved their banter and chemistry and their slow walk from friendship to love. I did find the author did the cliche thing to break them apart (trying not to give spoilers) that did feel immature and a bit callous and I wished The hero would have called out the heroine for what she did. but that his the only real hiccup in this story and can be a bit overlooked.
I also really enjoyed the friendship between Lola and her best friend Reese. I loved all their interactions and really see how Lola was able to heal from her horrible past and find what is the right thing for her.
If you enjoy slow burn romances, great friendships and zany characters then I think you will want to pick up this book!
*****Author Provided a Review Copy******
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