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Just the Six of Us
When Jenny and Dan meet, sparks fly and they can’t get enough of each other. What they can get enough of? Sneaking around and hiding their relationship from their kids…
Divorced, single, and ready for another shot at love in their forties, what they didn’t count on is how hard second chances can be.
When Jenny gets some unexpected news, suddenly navigating exes and step-children becomes even more important…
Divorced, single, and ready for another shot at love in their forties, what they didn’t count on is how hard second chances can be.
When Jenny gets some unexpected news, suddenly navigating exes and step-children becomes even more important…
- GenresRomance
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2022
137 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 7, 2022
This book really resonated with me. Im a single mom in my mid-30s, so the beginning had me laughing and truly understanding what that dating life was like. Then the blended family and messy bits reminded me of my pre-teen years when my dad got remarried. I could totally relate to several characters in this story. It was so funny yet heartwarming, also so sad tid bits in between. Such a beautiful story! The ending was such a great way to wrap up the story!
This ARC was given to me to review from the publishers and NetGalley. All comments above are solely my true opinion after reading this book.
This ARC was given to me to review from the publishers and NetGalley. All comments above are solely my true opinion after reading this book.
April 27, 2022
thank you hatchette for this arc!
3.5 stars from me
I wanted to start off this review with the positives I had about the book. I really liked how Dan was almost immediately all in with Jenny. I love how even when they were bumps in their relationship the communication was clear between them and they moved on. But for the life of me I could not stand Amelia. I understand that she’s an angsty preteen, but I just feel like she was a jerk for a lot of the book and a lot of it was unwarranted. I don’t know maybe it’s a personal thing, but I just hate bratty children who intentionally try to drive someone out of their lives just for their own personal selfishness. Maybe because I personally was an extra nice kid, I just can’t imagine someone’s thought process leading him to do that. I also didn’t like ginger as a character, I understand her reasoning for being a distant mother. But I feel like she just could’ve been a better person around. And maybe that was the point of her character, it just didn’t sit well with me. Overall I adore the rest of the children as well as Jenny‘s best friend Nicola! She was a real tree and I just loved how their friendship was portrayed in the book.
3.5 stars from me
I wanted to start off this review with the positives I had about the book. I really liked how Dan was almost immediately all in with Jenny. I love how even when they were bumps in their relationship the communication was clear between them and they moved on. But for the life of me I could not stand Amelia. I understand that she’s an angsty preteen, but I just feel like she was a jerk for a lot of the book and a lot of it was unwarranted. I don’t know maybe it’s a personal thing, but I just hate bratty children who intentionally try to drive someone out of their lives just for their own personal selfishness. Maybe because I personally was an extra nice kid, I just can’t imagine someone’s thought process leading him to do that. I also didn’t like ginger as a character, I understand her reasoning for being a distant mother. But I feel like she just could’ve been a better person around. And maybe that was the point of her character, it just didn’t sit well with me. Overall I adore the rest of the children as well as Jenny‘s best friend Nicola! She was a real tree and I just loved how their friendship was portrayed in the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2022
a solid 4! i really quite enjoyed this one!
most books i read based in england usually bore me a bit. the pace is often slow and characters aren’t as likable, which i understand. there are just some books by english authors that are written for an english audience and that just speaks to the audience they are writing for. but this one, i really liked!
the pace was great, the characters were sweet (especially one of the sons, Ethan, who was my favorite and most funny character btw), and you get a dual pov too which you don’t get often. i was interested in the book right away and the pacing was consistent which kept me captivated.
it was such a lovely romcom that included dating and falling in love as single parents, navigating tough situations and how to build a strong blended family. it was such a sweet book with a beautiful spotlight on the kids, who had great personality. they weren’t written off screen and you got to know all 4 of them so well and see them all come out of their shell and see them grow together as a family. it was just well written. jenny and dan, the parents, were also was written wonderfully to include their past marital problems and how they got there without it all being backhanded and solved too quickly. it was written with care and i loved that!
i may be bias because i love single parent tropes that include fun moments with the kids and not just characters that don’t speak but this book had everything i adore in a family book and reminded me a little of cheaper by the dozen which i love too. just so good.
also, ethan was truly my favorite little character. i laughed at absolutely everything he said. good good book! definitely on my faves list and will be ordering my own copy!
thank you netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in return of an honest review!
most books i read based in england usually bore me a bit. the pace is often slow and characters aren’t as likable, which i understand. there are just some books by english authors that are written for an english audience and that just speaks to the audience they are writing for. but this one, i really liked!
the pace was great, the characters were sweet (especially one of the sons, Ethan, who was my favorite and most funny character btw), and you get a dual pov too which you don’t get often. i was interested in the book right away and the pacing was consistent which kept me captivated.
it was such a lovely romcom that included dating and falling in love as single parents, navigating tough situations and how to build a strong blended family. it was such a sweet book with a beautiful spotlight on the kids, who had great personality. they weren’t written off screen and you got to know all 4 of them so well and see them all come out of their shell and see them grow together as a family. it was just well written. jenny and dan, the parents, were also was written wonderfully to include their past marital problems and how they got there without it all being backhanded and solved too quickly. it was written with care and i loved that!
i may be bias because i love single parent tropes that include fun moments with the kids and not just characters that don’t speak but this book had everything i adore in a family book and reminded me a little of cheaper by the dozen which i love too. just so good.
also, ethan was truly my favorite little character. i laughed at absolutely everything he said. good good book! definitely on my faves list and will be ordering my own copy!
thank you netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in return of an honest review!
May 31, 2022
3.75 stars.
Did i go into this thinking it was going to be full off second hand embrassment, awkward and cringy-ness? Absolutely. Were it? Well yes. But it was also funny, adorable and interesting. I know that when the story is gone over to check some of the writing, it`ll be an absolutely cute rom-com kind of book. I could even see this as a movie, and that is a high praise! It was not a 4 star for me because alot of it felt rushed and some of it was very quickly handed; the Ginger situation felt random and awkward f.eks and all those negative things felt very quickly dealt with. It could have lasted somewhat longer, being taken time with.
I got this eARC from Netgalley.
Did i go into this thinking it was going to be full off second hand embrassment, awkward and cringy-ness? Absolutely. Were it? Well yes. But it was also funny, adorable and interesting. I know that when the story is gone over to check some of the writing, it`ll be an absolutely cute rom-com kind of book. I could even see this as a movie, and that is a high praise! It was not a 4 star for me because alot of it felt rushed and some of it was very quickly handed; the Ginger situation felt random and awkward f.eks and all those negative things felt very quickly dealt with. It could have lasted somewhat longer, being taken time with.
I got this eARC from Netgalley.
April 6, 2022
Omg such a light fun book! I loved it! I loved the connection between Dan and Jenny and how they cope with the problem they’re facing. And most importantly the kidsss!! Arrgh they’re sooo adorable. How the parents solved the problem and parenthood isn’t always easy there’s always ups and downs. It tells how communication is so important for this. It’s just hits reality hard! And most important thing is I am a sucker for single parent tropes! This book it’s make me laugh too, such a stress reliever book!
June 15, 2022
I am going to start this by saying that I am stingy with my stars and I adored this story and was so sad when it was over. I cannot wait to read more by this author if this book is an indication of what she writes.
Dan and Jenny meet at a school parent function and hit it off instantly. They’re both divorced parents and going through the motions of life until they start dating and realize how much they like each other. A few months into their relationship, a big change comes their way and they struggle to adapt and help their kids adjust to the changes. The struggles they go through are totally believable and will definitely resonate with anyone who has gone through single parenting and starting over in the dating world and blending families.
This book was so funny and charming and so heartfelt! I adored the characters and could so relate to trying to find a second chance at happiness. It starts out with a laugh and just keeps getting better.
Such an easy read and I found myself flying through the pages and next thing I knew, it was done and I was bummed! I wanted to stay with them and see how they went along with life.
Dan and Jenny meet at a school parent function and hit it off instantly. They’re both divorced parents and going through the motions of life until they start dating and realize how much they like each other. A few months into their relationship, a big change comes their way and they struggle to adapt and help their kids adjust to the changes. The struggles they go through are totally believable and will definitely resonate with anyone who has gone through single parenting and starting over in the dating world and blending families.
This book was so funny and charming and so heartfelt! I adored the characters and could so relate to trying to find a second chance at happiness. It starts out with a laugh and just keeps getting better.
Such an easy read and I found myself flying through the pages and next thing I knew, it was done and I was bummed! I wanted to stay with them and see how they went along with life.
April 24, 2023
Wasn't sure if I was gonna like this book or not, but took a chance.
Glad that I did.
There we def lots of LOL moments
You have a single mom, messy moments, and a blended family can we say hello entertainment
Great characters that have a great back story and personality
Good POV and well written
There is a great connection between Dan and Jenny and you def need to read this for all the sweet, fun, and messy details of their story.
I was able to read this book as an ARC and am thankful for that. Thank u to the publisher and NetGalley for that chance. The above review/opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
Glad that I did.
There we def lots of LOL moments
You have a single mom, messy moments, and a blended family can we say hello entertainment
Great characters that have a great back story and personality
Good POV and well written
There is a great connection between Dan and Jenny and you def need to read this for all the sweet, fun, and messy details of their story.
I was able to read this book as an ARC and am thankful for that. Thank u to the publisher and NetGalley for that chance. The above review/opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
November 14, 2022
3.5 perfect if you just want fluff
April 12, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for the eARC in exchange of an honest review.
•• What’s this about? ••
Jenny and Dan are single parents trying to have a second chance in the love department. Sneaking around, having secret (and failing) dates and hiding their relationship from their kids. They are in the most beautiful moment of their relationship…
Until Jenny receives shocking news and their relationship goes upside down. Dealing with four very different children, two exes and so many more problems, Jenny and Dan need to prove that what they feel for each other is stronger than anything else.
•• What do I think about it? ••
This book caught my attention since I read the title. Just the Six of Us is a sweet, romantic, hilarious story about a cute couple and their children.
I couldn’t stop reading since the first scene. I mean, just read this please. “Thirty-nine is too old to have sex in the back of a car. This is the first thought that strikes Jenny as her elbow clonks against the hard plastic of the door.” It is the best beginning ever.
The relationship between Dan and Jenny is really cute, but my highlight from the story is the relationship Dan and Jenny create with the kids of the other. How Dan helped Jack to deal with his anxiety. How Jenny always tried to create a bond with Amelia and always supported her. The friendship between Ethan and Bryony was the sweetest thing.
Dan and Jenny are the representation that parenthood is really though, and even more when you are trying to have a love life again.
So, do I recommend it? Yes, it’s a light read with witty humor, characters with a great develop during the story, and a not so common plot.
There aren’t many rom-coms with main characters in their 40s and that was something I liked.
You are going to laugh so hard, you are going to fall in love with the kids and you are going to love the relationship between Jenny and Dan.
Btw, I need to mention my fav scenes because I really couldn’t stop laughing or sobbing when I read them.
--- MINIS SPOILERS ZONE ---
• When Dan ate poop.
• When Jenny wet herself.
• When Jenny thought she was in labor, but it was just a fart.
• When Ethan knew that Hulk died and Amelia comforted him.
• When everyone started calling Hulk the baby.
•• What’s this about? ••
Jenny and Dan are single parents trying to have a second chance in the love department. Sneaking around, having secret (and failing) dates and hiding their relationship from their kids. They are in the most beautiful moment of their relationship…
Until Jenny receives shocking news and their relationship goes upside down. Dealing with four very different children, two exes and so many more problems, Jenny and Dan need to prove that what they feel for each other is stronger than anything else.
•• What do I think about it? ••
This book caught my attention since I read the title. Just the Six of Us is a sweet, romantic, hilarious story about a cute couple and their children.
I couldn’t stop reading since the first scene. I mean, just read this please. “Thirty-nine is too old to have sex in the back of a car. This is the first thought that strikes Jenny as her elbow clonks against the hard plastic of the door.” It is the best beginning ever.
The relationship between Dan and Jenny is really cute, but my highlight from the story is the relationship Dan and Jenny create with the kids of the other. How Dan helped Jack to deal with his anxiety. How Jenny always tried to create a bond with Amelia and always supported her. The friendship between Ethan and Bryony was the sweetest thing.
Dan and Jenny are the representation that parenthood is really though, and even more when you are trying to have a love life again.
So, do I recommend it? Yes, it’s a light read with witty humor, characters with a great develop during the story, and a not so common plot.
There aren’t many rom-coms with main characters in their 40s and that was something I liked.
You are going to laugh so hard, you are going to fall in love with the kids and you are going to love the relationship between Jenny and Dan.
Btw, I need to mention my fav scenes because I really couldn’t stop laughing or sobbing when I read them.
--- MINIS SPOILERS ZONE ---
• When Dan ate poop.
• When Jenny wet herself.
• When Jenny thought she was in labor, but it was just a fart.
• When Ethan knew that Hulk died and Amelia comforted him.
• When everyone started calling Hulk the baby.
May 1, 2022
Just The Six of Us by Laurie Ellingham is a charming and relatable story about finding a second chance at happiness in mid-life. This is an easy, undemanding read that will have you rooting for everyone involved.
Dan and Jenny have found love in the second half of life, but this time around the romance plays out a little differently as each are bringing children into the relationship, in addition to the weight of their own expectations. The struggles encountered are believable, and will resonate with many readers who have found love the second time around, and have faced the challenge of blending families who are not always open to the possibility of change.
I very much enjoyed this heartfelt tale, and look forward to reading more from this author.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Orion Dash for an ARC.
Dan and Jenny have found love in the second half of life, but this time around the romance plays out a little differently as each are bringing children into the relationship, in addition to the weight of their own expectations. The struggles encountered are believable, and will resonate with many readers who have found love the second time around, and have faced the challenge of blending families who are not always open to the possibility of change.
I very much enjoyed this heartfelt tale, and look forward to reading more from this author.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Orion Dash for an ARC.
June 15, 2022
Jenny is a single parent to two boys. When she meets Dan, a single father to two girls, at school, sparks fly. They've only been seeing each other for a short period of time when they get a big surprise. Their relationship was only meant to be a bit of light-hearted fun. Jenny has struggled to trust anyone since her husband cheated on her. Dan is still grieving the loss of his parents and trying to keep the status quo at home and with his seemingly flighty ex-wife.
Laurie Ellingham perfectly captures the pressures and worries of single parents, the awkward first meetings with the new partner's children, and the inevitable arguments and upsets as six people navigate living together as a blended family. There are a ton of laugh-out-loud moments and many more sweet ones. Occasionally I did get frustrated with Jenny's indecisiveness, but as a single parent who has relied on myself and myself alone, I also really identified with her as well. Dan was pretty adorable for most of the book, although I liked that he was able to ultimately understand his part in his ex-wife's departure. On that note, I liked that the conflict elements in the book weren't dragged out, even if they were perhaps a bit easily resolved at times. If there's one thing I struggled with, it was the tense used. I'm really not a fan of the present perfect, as I find it quite passive, reading almost like stage directions at times. Still, that's my issue.
The details and humour of everyday life with children are where the book really shines. If you're a parent, you will identify with every argument, every embarrassing situation, and every sweet, heart-melting moment. Bryony was probably my favourite character, closely followed by Ethan, but I liked all of the children and empathised with each of their individual struggles. I really loved the tender moments between Dan and Jenny, and their banter was hilarious at times. I also think the opening chapter was genius! Unexpected but hilarious, and I loved that the romantic leads were in, or approaching their 40s. I debated between 4 and 5 stars but ultimately I finished this book with a huge, satisfied grin, so that tipped it to the 5 stars. I want to talk about so many scenes but I don't want to spoil anything. All I will say is the two 'Hulk' scenes towards the end (you'll know which ones when you've read them) are probably my favourites in the entire book.
*Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to leave an honest review*
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heat Rating: 🔥
Emotional Rating: 😂😊🥰💓💔😢🥰
Laurie Ellingham perfectly captures the pressures and worries of single parents, the awkward first meetings with the new partner's children, and the inevitable arguments and upsets as six people navigate living together as a blended family. There are a ton of laugh-out-loud moments and many more sweet ones. Occasionally I did get frustrated with Jenny's indecisiveness, but as a single parent who has relied on myself and myself alone, I also really identified with her as well. Dan was pretty adorable for most of the book, although I liked that he was able to ultimately understand his part in his ex-wife's departure. On that note, I liked that the conflict elements in the book weren't dragged out, even if they were perhaps a bit easily resolved at times. If there's one thing I struggled with, it was the tense used. I'm really not a fan of the present perfect, as I find it quite passive, reading almost like stage directions at times. Still, that's my issue.
The details and humour of everyday life with children are where the book really shines. If you're a parent, you will identify with every argument, every embarrassing situation, and every sweet, heart-melting moment. Bryony was probably my favourite character, closely followed by Ethan, but I liked all of the children and empathised with each of their individual struggles. I really loved the tender moments between Dan and Jenny, and their banter was hilarious at times. I also think the opening chapter was genius! Unexpected but hilarious, and I loved that the romantic leads were in, or approaching their 40s. I debated between 4 and 5 stars but ultimately I finished this book with a huge, satisfied grin, so that tipped it to the 5 stars. I want to talk about so many scenes but I don't want to spoil anything. All I will say is the two 'Hulk' scenes towards the end (you'll know which ones when you've read them) are probably my favourites in the entire book.
*Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to leave an honest review*
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heat Rating: 🔥
Emotional Rating: 😂😊🥰💓💔😢🥰
March 21, 2023
Laurie Ellingham’s Just the Six of Us captures the messiness of love, family, and self discovery in adulthood in this heartwarming unconventional romance.
That being said, I do feel that the romance took the backseat in what became more of a family story— which I was certainly not opposed to. I just found that I was anticipating more of the main couple, rather than beginning the book with feelings already established, complicated as they were. Switching between perspectives per chapter, it was fascinating to see each side of what became a rather emotionally complex story, coming to understand both of their values as individuals and how they work as a pair. I greatly enjoy dual POVs for this reason, and I think it was done quite well in Just The Six of Us.
Despite not containing any sexual or overtly mature content, Just the Six of Us felt far more grown up than most romance novels. Focusing on the realities of love, life, parenting, and pregnancy, there was little room for anything else, including the butterflies of a blossoming romance. The focus falls more family than anything else, but the realistic take of second chances after marriage was an interesting one that we don’t often see in the romance genre.
Despite not being in the demographic for this book, I do think it is a worthwhile read, especially for those within the target audience who can relate to the portrayals of marriage and blended family. I would, however, hesitantly label this as a romance in the traditional sense. The true focus was on the family as a unit, without much tile devoted to the lead pairing themselves.
To me, the true star of the novel was Amelia, Dan’s teenage daughter. I will admit she got on my nerves in the early chapters of the novel, but even with her somewhat limited page time I found myself quite invested in her development and would have greatly appreciated seeing more of her side of the story. Jack, Jenny’s oldest, also felt rather sidelined despite his outwardly complex demeanour and insecurities. Especially with alternating perspectives, I’d have loved to see the leads interacting with each others children in more one on one settings. For a book balancing so many characters, I did feel bereft of certain dynamics I’d hoped to see explored a little more.
Overall, I enjoyed Just The Six of Us well enough despite being quite far from the target audience; however, I did find it a little slow and found myself wanting more connection between the characters.
That being said, I do feel that the romance took the backseat in what became more of a family story— which I was certainly not opposed to. I just found that I was anticipating more of the main couple, rather than beginning the book with feelings already established, complicated as they were. Switching between perspectives per chapter, it was fascinating to see each side of what became a rather emotionally complex story, coming to understand both of their values as individuals and how they work as a pair. I greatly enjoy dual POVs for this reason, and I think it was done quite well in Just The Six of Us.
Despite not containing any sexual or overtly mature content, Just the Six of Us felt far more grown up than most romance novels. Focusing on the realities of love, life, parenting, and pregnancy, there was little room for anything else, including the butterflies of a blossoming romance. The focus falls more family than anything else, but the realistic take of second chances after marriage was an interesting one that we don’t often see in the romance genre.
Despite not being in the demographic for this book, I do think it is a worthwhile read, especially for those within the target audience who can relate to the portrayals of marriage and blended family. I would, however, hesitantly label this as a romance in the traditional sense. The true focus was on the family as a unit, without much tile devoted to the lead pairing themselves.
To me, the true star of the novel was Amelia, Dan’s teenage daughter. I will admit she got on my nerves in the early chapters of the novel, but even with her somewhat limited page time I found myself quite invested in her development and would have greatly appreciated seeing more of her side of the story. Jack, Jenny’s oldest, also felt rather sidelined despite his outwardly complex demeanour and insecurities. Especially with alternating perspectives, I’d have loved to see the leads interacting with each others children in more one on one settings. For a book balancing so many characters, I did feel bereft of certain dynamics I’d hoped to see explored a little more.
Overall, I enjoyed Just The Six of Us well enough despite being quite far from the target audience; however, I did find it a little slow and found myself wanting more connection between the characters.
May 6, 2022
Firstly, a shout-out to NetGalley and the book's publishing company as thanks for allowing me to read an arc of "Just the Six of Us" by Laurie Ellingham.
What it's about: Dan is 46 and Jenny is 39. They are just simply "having fun" - not really "dating", per se, with no sort of label on their relationship. Jenny has two boys named Ethan and Jack, and Dan has two girls named Amelia and Bryony (never heard this name before in my life, and had to look up how it was pronounced). A major event occurs that eventually leads to them making a life-changing decision about how to label their relationship.
What I liked: The personalities depicted by each of the characters were either all familiar or something I could easily relate to back during my younger years of being the ages of Jenny & Dan's children. I like how the storyline developed over the course of the novel.
What I wasn't so crazy about: This copy of the novel was definitely a work in progress, not a final draft - there were a number of spelling errors throughout and the formatting was considerably messed up (at least on my own Kindle) But seeing as how this is a free copy, I'm not going to complain too much. I did find Jenny's nervousness about moving along too quickly with Dan a bit annoying at times. She over-thought things way too much sometimes and had a blatant refusal to heed the advice of her wise friend Nicola.
Overall, I would rate this novel a 3.75/5 stars!
What it's about: Dan is 46 and Jenny is 39. They are just simply "having fun" - not really "dating", per se, with no sort of label on their relationship. Jenny has two boys named Ethan and Jack, and Dan has two girls named Amelia and Bryony (never heard this name before in my life, and had to look up how it was pronounced). A major event occurs that eventually leads to them making a life-changing decision about how to label their relationship.
What I liked: The personalities depicted by each of the characters were either all familiar or something I could easily relate to back during my younger years of being the ages of Jenny & Dan's children. I like how the storyline developed over the course of the novel.
What I wasn't so crazy about: This copy of the novel was definitely a work in progress, not a final draft - there were a number of spelling errors throughout and the formatting was considerably messed up (at least on my own Kindle) But seeing as how this is a free copy, I'm not going to complain too much. I did find Jenny's nervousness about moving along too quickly with Dan a bit annoying at times. She over-thought things way too much sometimes and had a blatant refusal to heed the advice of her wise friend Nicola.
Overall, I would rate this novel a 3.75/5 stars!
May 10, 2022
4.5 Stars
Where to start with this one?
This isn't your typical romance. There's no smut, there's no outrageous drama, there's only character development and very strong contemporary feel to it. And that's why this book was amazing.
We follow Dan and Jenny has they navigate life trying to balance their kids, their relationship, their fears and insecurities, their ex's and have I mentioned that they're having a baby together? This is literally it, and has I have said before this book was amazing.
It made me feel like the characters were my friends and I just wanted to be there for them and watch them grow and become this amazing family together. I guess I felt a little bit like Nicola (Jenny's best friend) reading this book.
I teared up a bit when it ended because I honestly didn't want it to end... I wanted to know how they would navigate the rest of their lives until they both died ahah
There's only one thing that got me thinking "This isn't realistic at all" and it was
I recommend this book to all romance readers who want a break from the typical "girl meets boy and they fall in love with a sprinkle of smut and drama" kind of books.
Thank you so much to Netgalley for letting me read this one in exchange for a honest review
Where to start with this one?
This isn't your typical romance. There's no smut, there's no outrageous drama, there's only character development and very strong contemporary feel to it. And that's why this book was amazing.
We follow Dan and Jenny has they navigate life trying to balance their kids, their relationship, their fears and insecurities, their ex's and have I mentioned that they're having a baby together? This is literally it, and has I have said before this book was amazing.
It made me feel like the characters were my friends and I just wanted to be there for them and watch them grow and become this amazing family together. I guess I felt a little bit like Nicola (Jenny's best friend) reading this book.
I teared up a bit when it ended because I honestly didn't want it to end... I wanted to know how they would navigate the rest of their lives until they both died ahah
There's only one thing that got me thinking "This isn't realistic at all" and it was
I recommend this book to all romance readers who want a break from the typical "girl meets boy and they fall in love with a sprinkle of smut and drama" kind of books.
Thank you so much to Netgalley for letting me read this one in exchange for a honest review
April 3, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Netgalley & Orion Dash!
Jenny and Dan are both divorced parents of two when they meet at a school event. Something sparks between them and they soon find themselves juggling dating, parenting, and intrusive exes. A surprise pushes their relationship to the next level and they find themselves living together as one big family of six.
Just the Six of Us is a sweet, second chance romance that gives a realistic look into the “goods and bads” of blending families. The author shows the trials of merging two households and how it affects not only the parents but the children as well. The children are shown with a range of emotion which I’ve seen to be true in these kinds of circumstances. It’s nice to read a love story about 40 somethings in a new stage of life. Most romances seem to focus on couples in their 20’s which isn't always relatable.
This is the first book that I have read from author Laurie Ellingham but I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Jenny and Dan are both divorced parents of two when they meet at a school event. Something sparks between them and they soon find themselves juggling dating, parenting, and intrusive exes. A surprise pushes their relationship to the next level and they find themselves living together as one big family of six.
Just the Six of Us is a sweet, second chance romance that gives a realistic look into the “goods and bads” of blending families. The author shows the trials of merging two households and how it affects not only the parents but the children as well. The children are shown with a range of emotion which I’ve seen to be true in these kinds of circumstances. It’s nice to read a love story about 40 somethings in a new stage of life. Most romances seem to focus on couples in their 20’s which isn't always relatable.
This is the first book that I have read from author Laurie Ellingham but I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
December 30, 2023
A brilliant story about trying to create a new blended family.
Jenny has two sons, Dan has two daughters and they are both single parents, after divorcing their partners.
They meet at a school event, and sparks fly and between some snatched moments, and making out like teenagers in the back seat of a car, well Jenny discovers she's pregnant.
Only it was never meant to be anything more than just fun, and now we get to see how they attempt to deal with their current children, getting them used to the idea, and working out how to navigate their relationship with a baby on the way.
There are so many fabulous moments in this book, as we watch the four children who all have rather different personalities try to well get used to the situation, while also scheming for their own purposes.
I loved seeing how all of this develops and I also loved Jenny's job as she runs a cake making business.. and there is rather a lot of cake!
A really enjoyable story, featuring a very modern family set up. I loved it a lot.
Thank you to Orion Dash and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Jenny has two sons, Dan has two daughters and they are both single parents, after divorcing their partners.
They meet at a school event, and sparks fly and between some snatched moments, and making out like teenagers in the back seat of a car, well Jenny discovers she's pregnant.
Only it was never meant to be anything more than just fun, and now we get to see how they attempt to deal with their current children, getting them used to the idea, and working out how to navigate their relationship with a baby on the way.
There are so many fabulous moments in this book, as we watch the four children who all have rather different personalities try to well get used to the situation, while also scheming for their own purposes.
I loved seeing how all of this develops and I also loved Jenny's job as she runs a cake making business.. and there is rather a lot of cake!
A really enjoyable story, featuring a very modern family set up. I loved it a lot.
Thank you to Orion Dash and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 7, 2022
Oh my, I really loved Just The Six of Us. Where most books have the focus on 20-30 years old, I really loved how Dan and Jenny were 40-ish. I devoured the book within a day, I couldn't put it away. It is so sweet and heartwarming, Laurie Ellingham really managed to give you a look in a life with a blended family. It is so realistic and also shows the messy sides of parenthood. Even though there are six maincharactes you get to know each one of them very well. I could really relate to this book, I used to be the Amalia of the family. Throughout the chapters you switch between the POV's from Dan and Jenny, I love how we got to know both families. Six main characters are a lot but you get to know each single one of them and you close them in your heart one by one. The love for each other is palpable throughout the book. Just The Six of Us is heartwarming, funny but also romantic. I love it!
April 23, 2022
Ok, so this definitely was not my type of book. I was not able to connect with any of the characters on a personal level BUT this was a really good book.
I think that it does a great job showing the family dynamics, the raw reaction of kids when they find out their (single) parents are dating, meeting their step-siblings, having second thoughts about blended families and all that. The book explores the past, the importance of communication, trust, and how hard it can be for both kids and parents to create a bond with their partner’s kid.
I did not expect to like this book as much, but it was really good and it made me appreciate blended families a little more as it gave me an inside view of everything that goes on to make your new family.
Overall, this was cute and real!!!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
I think that it does a great job showing the family dynamics, the raw reaction of kids when they find out their (single) parents are dating, meeting their step-siblings, having second thoughts about blended families and all that. The book explores the past, the importance of communication, trust, and how hard it can be for both kids and parents to create a bond with their partner’s kid.
I did not expect to like this book as much, but it was really good and it made me appreciate blended families a little more as it gave me an inside view of everything that goes on to make your new family.
Overall, this was cute and real!!!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
May 5, 2022
Single parents Dan and Jenny are enjoying their no-strings fling. But when a pregnancy test shatters their low-key romance, they work to overcome their past wounds while blending their families under one roof.
I really liked this book. I thought it did a really good job showing the realities of a blended family and didn't gloss over the tough parts. Overall, the story is very sweet, but I appreciated the realness of the situations and the emotions as Jenny and Dan move past their failed relationships to succeed at this new one. I also appreciated how Dan's Ex Ginger develops and appreciated that she wasn't a villain - just a person working to move forward from her past.
Endearing and entertaining.
Dual POV
Closed Door Romance
TW: divorce
Thank you to Net Galley for this advanced e-arc. All opinions my own
I really liked this book. I thought it did a really good job showing the realities of a blended family and didn't gloss over the tough parts. Overall, the story is very sweet, but I appreciated the realness of the situations and the emotions as Jenny and Dan move past their failed relationships to succeed at this new one. I also appreciated how Dan's Ex Ginger develops and appreciated that she wasn't a villain - just a person working to move forward from her past.
Endearing and entertaining.
Dual POV
Closed Door Romance
TW: divorce
Thank you to Net Galley for this advanced e-arc. All opinions my own
July 12, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Orion Dash for allowing to read the e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It's a fun quick-read! I haven't read much of single parents trope before, but this book has both 2 children-single mother and 2 children-single father as main characters with a premise of uniting them to be a blended-family as they fell in love. I love how adorable their kids are. All the unexpected events in attempt to form the kids' bond with each other as well as Jenny and Dan were both hilarious and heartwarming. I love they acknowledged the children's feelings over the sudden changes through communication and actions, also applied on how both Jenny and Fan overcome their own issues. It gives insight of how hard parenting is, especially as single parent. Overall, it's a sweet, heartwarming, delighting, and a good book that perfect for your summer read!
It's a fun quick-read! I haven't read much of single parents trope before, but this book has both 2 children-single mother and 2 children-single father as main characters with a premise of uniting them to be a blended-family as they fell in love. I love how adorable their kids are. All the unexpected events in attempt to form the kids' bond with each other as well as Jenny and Dan were both hilarious and heartwarming. I love they acknowledged the children's feelings over the sudden changes through communication and actions, also applied on how both Jenny and Fan overcome their own issues. It gives insight of how hard parenting is, especially as single parent. Overall, it's a sweet, heartwarming, delighting, and a good book that perfect for your summer read!
March 30, 2022
I was given an ARC of this book by NetGalley and Orion Dash in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Gosh this was just lovely! It’s so unusual to see a RomCom with MCs that aren’t single 22 year olds, and I LOVED it! This is a goofy blended family RomCom featuring mature MCs and it’s such a nice change of pace from most RomComs out there! I love Jenny and Dan, and I really enjoyed watching them figure out their new lives together. It was so nice to see parenthood depicted in such a realistic way. Parenthood is messy and stressful yet full of so much love and this story represented all sides! This was a super quick and easy read as well. It didn’t take me very long at all!
Gosh this was just lovely! It’s so unusual to see a RomCom with MCs that aren’t single 22 year olds, and I LOVED it! This is a goofy blended family RomCom featuring mature MCs and it’s such a nice change of pace from most RomComs out there! I love Jenny and Dan, and I really enjoyed watching them figure out their new lives together. It was so nice to see parenthood depicted in such a realistic way. Parenthood is messy and stressful yet full of so much love and this story represented all sides! This was a super quick and easy read as well. It didn’t take me very long at all!
April 3, 2022
Brilliant! Light hearted, laughter, and love!
Everyone deserves a second chance at love, Jenny and Dan both divorced with children and middle aged are dating,grabbing opportunities to see each other as and when they can around the constraints of single parenthood! That is until they are presented with an unexpected surprise and things suddenly change!
Combining ex partners, pets and children in a hilarious but totally relatable way, depicting all the up and downs emotionally, geographically and practically that blended families bring to the table!
Great characters particularly the children, fantastically accurate illustrations of a combined families life and a fast paced storyline make for a great read! Would love to read a sequel!
Thank you netgalley for this early read!
Everyone deserves a second chance at love, Jenny and Dan both divorced with children and middle aged are dating,grabbing opportunities to see each other as and when they can around the constraints of single parenthood! That is until they are presented with an unexpected surprise and things suddenly change!
Combining ex partners, pets and children in a hilarious but totally relatable way, depicting all the up and downs emotionally, geographically and practically that blended families bring to the table!
Great characters particularly the children, fantastically accurate illustrations of a combined families life and a fast paced storyline make for a great read! Would love to read a sequel!
Thank you netgalley for this early read!
April 10, 2022
Such a heartwarming book! I loved this story from the start! A love story about two individuals in their 40s (kinda) and the trials of merging their families! This story made me laugh, tear up, and found a special place in my heart that will be hard to ever replace. I love that this isn’t a love story about people in their 20s and is focused on people in their 40s. It tells the struggles of being a single parent and coparenting with your ex. It was very refreshing and so lovely! I can’t wait for others to read this lovely story and fall in love with Jenny and Dan, plus the family, like I did!
Thank you to Netgalley and Orion Dash publishing for giving me access to an advanced e-copy of this book! This is an honest review of the book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Orion Dash publishing for giving me access to an advanced e-copy of this book! This is an honest review of the book.
April 12, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read Just the Six of Us for my honest review and feedback. I’m a sucker for romance novels and this book had the sparks flying. Jenny is a single divorced mom of 2 boys with a great split custody arrangement while Dan is a teacher single and divorced however, his ex wife comes and goes as she pleases. Jenny and dan have been seeing each other in secret until they find out Jenny is pregnant with Dans child! Jenny has trust issues from her previous marriage and prefers to be alone and independent. Throughout the book Dan teaches Jenny that it is ok to trust and rely on him since they are now combining from individual families into a family of 7.
5 stars across the board this book was fabulous!
5 stars across the board this book was fabulous!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2022
This is first book i have read by this author but i hope not the last. A fun, easy read laced with humour.
Jenny and Dan are both divorced and have 2 children each. Both are ready to embrace the dating game again and find themselves in compromising positions in Dans car. Initially trying to keep their realtionship secret, an unexpected surprise annoucement from Jenny causes them to reconsider.
The initial meeting of these 6 people does not go to plan. Howver when jennys rented accommodation needs to be modernised, the 6 are thrown together in Dans house for a month. Add in ex partners, guinea pigs and homones, disaster is predicted.
A really fun read of blended famies and the difficulties this may bring, whilst also highlighting the wins.
Highly recommend this lovely read.
Jenny and Dan are both divorced and have 2 children each. Both are ready to embrace the dating game again and find themselves in compromising positions in Dans car. Initially trying to keep their realtionship secret, an unexpected surprise annoucement from Jenny causes them to reconsider.
The initial meeting of these 6 people does not go to plan. Howver when jennys rented accommodation needs to be modernised, the 6 are thrown together in Dans house for a month. Add in ex partners, guinea pigs and homones, disaster is predicted.
A really fun read of blended famies and the difficulties this may bring, whilst also highlighting the wins.
Highly recommend this lovely read.
May 4, 2022
I have to say it this book was surprisingly super duper cute and I actually really enjoyed it. Slight spoiler, there is a pregnancy trope. So if your own other people who don't like pregnancy tropes, then this book is not going to be for you. But if you the kind of person that loves the pregnancy tropes or you don't mind them then I definitely recommend it. Both Dan and Jenny are single parents with 2 kids. Dan has 2 girls Jenny has 2 boys and I love the story and the progression of them becoming a blended family. This book not only made me laugh but it also made me feel all the emotions. It was such a cute and easy read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this story in exchange for my honest opinions and feedback.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this story in exchange for my honest opinions and feedback.
March 29, 2022
5 stars oh my god!!! This was so lovely. There was so many heartfelt moments between the family and I just love them very much. Six main characters could be considered a lot (at least for me) but I was impressed by how the author was able to make me feel invested in every single one of them! I love all the characters improvement, it was done very nicely.
Dan and Jenny are the best parents. And the kids. My god. Amelia, Jack, Ethan, and Bryony are the cutest kids ever. I like how different each of their personalities are and I just want to give them a big hug. This book is so good. Just. 5 stars. *chef’s kiss* mwah.
Thank you NetGalley for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Dan and Jenny are the best parents. And the kids. My god. Amelia, Jack, Ethan, and Bryony are the cutest kids ever. I like how different each of their personalities are and I just want to give them a big hug. This book is so good. Just. 5 stars. *chef’s kiss* mwah.
Thank you NetGalley for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2022
4⭐️ Thank you to Net Galley and Orion Dash for the eARC! I would like to start off by saying that i really enjoyed this book because i have never read one like it. It follows the story of 39 year old Jenny and 45 year old Dan who are both divorced single parents. They are both struggling to find a balance of dating but also providing for their kids. There aren’t many stories that follows MCs of this age but i really liked it because it shows us the struggles of single parents and how difficult it can be to get back into the dating world. A lot of the focus are on their children and issues surrounding that especially due to a curveball thrown at them. I was laughing throughout my read with this and found it be an easy-fun read. The Six of Us is a romance with the process of trial and error on dating, parenting, and combining two families to love one another. Highly recommend! Check it out on May 12th!
May 21, 2022
This light and adorable read is the perfect book when you need something light, sweet, and super funny. For me this read came right between two particularly dark thrillers, so I welcome the story. Dan and Jenny are newly dating after rough divorces. They each are navigating dating while working around their children and their emotions. I haven’t read many books from the perspective of single parenthood. I was rooting for their journey to find happiness as they attempt to blend their families. This book has some hilarious scenes that will leave you laughing because it feels so real. Parenting, dating, and families can be hard, but Laurie Ellingham does a great job with bringing light to those situations. I thought the book was realistic and well written. I would recommend reading this book.
You would especially like this book if you: are dating after a divorce or with kids in the mix, have been or are a single parent, or generally love when people fall in love and navigate tricky situations.
Thank you Netgalley, Orion Dash, and Laurie Ellingham
You would especially like this book if you: are dating after a divorce or with kids in the mix, have been or are a single parent, or generally love when people fall in love and navigate tricky situations.
Thank you Netgalley, Orion Dash, and Laurie Ellingham
June 11, 2022
What a lovely read. Quite realistic and funny at times. Every parent can relate to something that happened in this book. I loved the honesty that the characters had to endure, both of themselves and what others tell them. Dan is such a lovely character, I really enjoyed how we got to watch him falling in love with Jenny and navigating his own family and his new step family. His kindness and patience with Jenny and the boys was beautiful to watch. Like wise Jenny was great navigating the mine field that Amelia kept throwing at her, yet still managing to keep her walls up, until Dans patience won and she let herself truly love him.
A beautiful, very relatable read.
A beautiful, very relatable read.
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