Watch Over My Life

What Will Be

by Laura Ashley Gallagher

Watch Over My Life and Losing Love are both standalone books in the What Will Be book series and can be read in any order, but it is recommended that both are read before If By Chance.

Jessica Connors has her life figured out - successful career, independent woman, and hiding a life-threatening illness.

She plans to keep it that way even when Jake Williams comes crashing into her life. As her brother’s childhood friend and now her boss, she despises everything about him. So, when she wakes up naked in his bed one morning, she wonders how she has ended up there.

Their one-night stand sets off a series of surprising events that will bring the pair closer than ever, and she gives away something she never knew he wanted.

Her heart.

Her life becomes everything she has dreamed of, but dreams don’t last forever. Somebody always wakes you eventually.

And when Jessica wakes, she is forced to face a past that is haunting her, and secrets best left unspoken - secrets that will change both of their lives forever.

Genres: Romance

234 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2021

About the author

Laura Ashley was born and raised in Ireland, where she spent a large part of her childhood and teenage years studying music. Drawn to people’s stories and a lifelong storyteller, she went on to study journalism. Laura Ashley specializes in crafting stories with heaps of romance and maybe even a few tears. When she is not writing, she is spending time and having fun with her husband and young son.

Reviews

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm numb. I've never cried so much over a book. I'm not emotionally stable to write a proper review yet

[aina · Rating 1 out of 5]

starting 2022 with the worst book ever. jess and jake had no chemistry despite being childhood enemies or whatever. they were so cringy and the urge to dnf this was so strong. fuck tiktok recs




SPOILER AHEAD



and bye i really thought she was gonna be fine but then she died on the night they got married

[Elsie Pitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an awesome story written by an author who conveys what she is feeling for her characters and allows us to take this journey with her and her characters! Jake and Jess have history, growing up together and working closely you would think that these two have enough between them to make this work. But you no how fickle fate can be and well you are just going to have pick this up and find out what or if they get the HEA!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kaitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

That was sad.

[A.A. Reid · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a very short read and not my cup of tea but that’s okay! The writing was well done and you can tell she put her heart into it! I recommend you read it and make your own opinions!

[Hanalovesbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING!!! 😭😭😭 WHY?! I THOUGHT..... NOW I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE 3rd BOOK! 🤧🤧🤧

I'VE READ BOTH BOOKS. THEY DESERVE MORE ATTENTION!!!

[alittlecloud · Rating 3 out of 5]

The ending though, it was emotional didn’t fully expect it to turn out like that. Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot, it was a good story but I couldn’t help but think it can get better than that. I do think everything was short lived — from both Jess and Jacks first banter to their first life romance. And I was kind of dissapointed with how Jess coped with her illness. I wish some things had been a bit different

[Noni · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book made me SO MAD because it had such good bones, but it was just not good. The plot line had sooo much potential. A truly beautiful story could’ve been written here, but it was executed by someone who was clearly an amateur. It honestly could’ve been a Wattpad book. Also, random but, every dialogue ending with the speaker saying the name of the person they were talking to. It was annoying.

[Nezhda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved the idea, and I'm still interested to read the rest of the books, however I don't think I was able to connect with the characters. Didn't really feel any chemistry between Jess and Jake, and Jessica's actions/reactions to certain things just didn't make sense at all having in mind her past. Things just didn't resonate with me 🤷 🤷

[Denise O’ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book five days ago and I couldn’t put it down. From the minute I opened this book I fell into the next chapter without realisation.
I would recommend this emotional love story and I really enjoyed how the author captured the emotions of each character. I can’t wait to start the authors next book. For me, it was outstanding, emotional and an excellent read.

[Summer Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

****POSSIBLE SPOILER****
Not a real spoiler about the plot, but a comment that some reads may feel is a spoiler



I was fortunate enough to be able to get an Advanced Review Copy (ARC) of this book. I won't lie, this type of book isn't my usual cup of tea, only because I don't love sad stories. I read to try to avoid real life issues, not be made to ball up in a corner and cry over them lol. And this story has a good probability of making you cry. It's a bittersweet story with an ending that you may not love but will find to be the exact one needed. This writer puts her heart and soul into her writing which always makes for a good read. I believe it's well written, especially for a first novel. I've enjoyed getting to know her through her book as much as I enjoyed getting to know her characters. I look forward to future novels from her!

[Suzaan Jansen van Rensburg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jessica had a crush on Jake for as long as she could remember. But he broke her heart once and since then they had a type of love-hate relationship. But now it's changed and their one night stand evolved into much more. But she has a secret and before she could tell him she found out that she was pregnant. The possibility of her own child was something she could not let go and she put her baby's life before hers even knowing that time may be running out for her. This is a heartbreaking story of someone who had to make difficult choices far too early in her life. But is there even a choice if it is between your own or your child's life?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Destiny Pourteau · Rating 5 out of 5]

If going by the title tells you anything, it’s that you always want to have that someone in your life who knows you and is there for you no matter what decisions you make.

When starting this book, I assumed it would be just another romance book and to an extent it is, it’s the girl and the brothers best friend who hate each other. However, this book has so much to offer rather than being just your typical love/hate relationship.

The characters, Jessica and Jake, who have pretty much grown up together have to endure countless obstacles in their life, from dealing with Jessica’s past to their family hardships, and managing relationships. These two characters manage to highlight the difficulties that people have to endure everyday, whether it be dealing with past relationships, or illness, or even ones own insecurities.

This book hit me much harder than I expected, being that the main character, Jess, shows similarities to my own mother and the story of Jess was extremely well written.

The journey of both of these characters was beautiful. While I’m sure there are other romance books out there with similar plots, this one is definitely worth a read.

To Laura,
What a wonderful book and thank you for telling Jess and Jake’s story.

[Brittanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a good read. I enjoyed the relationships between characters. I also enjoyed seeing each person grow and change. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a nice enemies to lovers romance.

[Bernadette Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A most beautiful story that has everything one would want. It tell the story that love isn't always plain sailing and sometimes we should just live for the moment.
The book is very relevant and relatable which makes it a beautiful read just remember to keep a box's of tissue beside you.
I'm sure like myself you will come away from this book extremely grateful for the loved ones you have in your life ❤

[Jennifer Richey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story that will def shed some tears!! Jake & Jess these two know each other basically grew up with each other & know work with each other!! But one night stand could change every thing plus a dark secret could change it also!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Caryn Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started this book I thought ok brothers best friend and we hate each other As the book progressed, I fell in love with Jake and Jess the story. Connected to this book more emotionally than any other book I've read to date. This book wrecked me emotionally. I have never cried while reading a book, this one has me in tears. Beautifully written and well done.

[Jamie Schaefer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Absolutely amazing! I love books that can pull you in and make you feel the emotions. I couldn't put this one down. I can honestly say that this is one of the best books I have ever read - if not the best! An authentic, relatable story with a fantastic plot. I look forward to more from this author.

[Issa Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Watch over my life was beautifully written and an unexpected story. I enjoyed Ashley's writing so much. I will remember this story forever.

[Aryna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was initially going to give this book a 2 or even 1 star but after reading If By Chance I can understand why some of the choices the author made about this book.
When I first read this book I didn't really connect with the characters. I didn't really feel the connection between Jake and Jess despite them knowing each other for years. There wasn't much chemistry between the two and I couldn't feel them actually get close to each other and express their desire for each other except when/after they had sex. I don't know if Ms. Gallagher intended to not write smut scenes because of If By Chance but I can understand why she didn't. Wouldn't impact the story either way. It would be a bit weird to read about Jake being with Jess and in the next book he's with Claire. But I wish the author included past POV's to help us actually understand the characters and their relationship more, compared to telling us they hated each other and he was an ass until recently. I would've enjoyed reading about younger Jess and Jake and their past relationship as compared to their present relationship. I would've liked to see their growth because sadly I didn't feel it with the way it was written.

After Jess decides to basically kill herself, I had to just skim because her logic just made me angry. And I didn't really care for Jake because I didn't really know him except for what was being told to us instead of shown.

As a stadalone I probably wouldn't recommend but as a part of the series with reading If By Chance right after, it's ok.

[hailee haloka · Rating 2 out of 5]

I dont think this book was for me honestly. From the very beginning i just wasn't that into it, it felt like we started the story in the middle of their relationship. Even though we got explanations about their relationship before, it wasn't matching up. She described Jake as this selfish ladies man who only cared about fucking. Then they have sex and suddenly he's obsessed with her, but they don't communicate like at all so i was confused if he did even like her or was it really just sex? Then he goes and fucks his secretary and i was sitting there like?????? I dont think i like when characters sleep around, i know they weren't in an official relationship but like... it seemed like he slept with the secretary out of nowhere and then never even talked to jessica about it?? Also he kept saying like how she hated him and blah blah blah but, from the very beginning jessica told us about the crush she used to have on him and how he literally stood her up! Then they just... never discuss it? and thats only SOME of the issues i had with the relationship. Dont even get me started on the characters themselves..... I just was not a fan of this book, i kept reading hoping it would get better and then she just fucking dies????? after we were told her cancer was treatable and it only spread a little bit??? How does that make sense? we never even got an explanation! So yeah, 2 stars from me, it just was not my jam

[Shauna Mcdonnell · Rating 2 out of 5]

Honestly the only reason I gave this book 2 stars was because the ending made me cry. The writing wasn’t very good, I felt like the plot was all over the place and it felt like actual work to read this book.
Neither jess nor Jake were likable characters, and I thought jess was quite selfish for not telling anyone about the cancer or for not letting Jake know about what having the baby would cost her. She said she could do everything by herself yet she fell into Jake’s arms anytime he provoked her. I really tried to like this book and I had such high expectations. It was just a let down.
And seriously letting us believe she was going to be ok and killing her on her wedding night, that was cruel. It made me cry yes was it necessary no. Now I know cancer is unpredictable and not all kinds react the same way, but considering that the cancer started off as stage 2 and that even though it spread a small bit they got most of it out and would get the rest it with treatment, she should’ve been fine, there was no indications otherwise that treatment wasn’t working, yes treatment takes a lot out of you I’ve seen it personally in my aunty but I don’t know Jess’s just death seemed too sudden for my liking.

[Debleena · Rating 1 out of 5]

One of my worst mistakes

This book was bad. I started reading this book after going through its many reviews, about the book being emotional and all but even though the author tried to make the book angsty and emotional it was a complete garbage to me. I am sorry if that sounds crude but that's exactly how I felt.
Jessica is pathetic and a pitiful doormat while the hero is forgettable, disdainful and vile... I mean the guy literally dumped the sick fmc in the hospital after knowing the truth. I mean yeah she lied but weren't you professing your love for her and how you would fight for her??? I have read much much better books where the mc is heartbroken with the fmcs dark truths but handle it like a person who is in love with the fmc.
Jessica is downright pathetic, she does a 180 every god damn time the hero turns her on. She decides, nothing to do with the hero only to succumb to his ministrations simply because he turns her on. Ewww 😖, girl where's your respect and dignity??

Nope just nope , this book went right into the bin after I finished my traumatic journey.

[mich · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jessica Connors has no intentions of getting involved with anyone romantically, no intentions whatsoever. Except, Jake Williams seems to have made it is mission to change that...

I will admit romance is not one of my usual genres, I have been trying to branch out but I don't have many points of reference for this.
That being said this was a fast and enjoyable read. The characters felt genuine and I was invested in their relationship with one another and their individual journeys.
Where the story primarily fell short for me was the stakes didn't feel as high as they maybe could have, and so the ending felt a bit out of place.

So although not entirely my cup of tea, I would recommend romance readers to check it out.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn’t enjoy this book unfortunately.

Like others readers have said, there wasn’t any chemistry between Jessica and Jake, it wasn’t believable at least. The majority of the story took place at their workplace and was a bit boring. There was no back story to their relationship, despite knowing each other for years and Jake being Jessica’s brother’s best friend but we don’t learn anything about any characters. It’s all very surface level.

The dialogue felt clunky. I couldn’t picture the scenes or characters ever. Which is unfortunate because I’ve loved other books written by this author, which is what made me choose to read this one.

I’m unsure if I will read the other two books in the short series.

[Kristine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lite spoiler ahead:

The writing wasn't spectacular, but I didn't DNF it? 🤷 I read this as a filler book during a buddy read for another series and honestly the book was all drama. I kept waiting for a plot, or at least some spice, but really never got either.

It's only 220ish pages so I stuck it out and I gave it 3 stars (as opposed to less) because I was robbed of the cookie cutter HEA this book sets you up for. I thought about it all day. I literally felt nothing until that ending. Take that for what you will.

[reids.reads · Rating 1 out of 5]

I would like to preface this by saying I actually like death trope, in fact, it's one of my top 3 favourite tropes. With that being said I hated this book.

The main characters had no chemistry or tension despite the book being enemies to lovers. I wasn't rooting for them at all. I literally felt nothing over the fact the fmc dies and on their wedding night no less. I should have felt something when she died, but I literally didn't care.

[Julie Camino · Rating 5 out of 5]

😭😭

Talk about hitting u in the feels. This was so beautiful and sad. I cried for half the book. The tittle was not lying by saying it is an emotional love story. Like what the hell!! Jessica had to deal with so much it was so heartbreaking.

Totally recommend if you need a good cry.
I don't recommend this book if you have recently been abused, lost a child because of said abuse.

[Elodie R · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a love story that breaks your heart,this is the one. It was short but intense and full of emotions..
The story of Jess and Jake is heartbreaking, devastating, and written with such honesty that you almost forget it’s fiction.
With them it’s not about forever, but about the kind of love that changes you, even when it can’t last.
It hurts but you’re grateful to have felt it.
And honestly it’s just one of those books you’ll think about for a long time…

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
The storyline had so much potential and I’m a sucker for these types of books where one of the main characters are sick (does that sound bad?) but I don’t think it was executed well. The heroine was getting on my nerves because she was rude to practically everyone for no reason, and held off so much on telling the love interest. I felt like the book’s only redeeming quality was its ending :/