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A Life Unplanned
Sadie Jones had her whole life planned. Only problem is, she planned it with the wrong guy. Moving on from her cheating ex fiancé, Sadie escapes to New York Comic Con. While dressed as Amy Pond, she meets a mysterious Batman cosplayer.
Sadie and Theo’s connection is immediate, electric, and woven with their shared joy of all things nerdy. What starts as a whirlwind convention romance quickly deepens. But when Sadie discovers who Theo really is behind the Batman mask, a dark shadow looms over their blossoming love.
Still, Sadie chooses her billionaire nerd because what they feel for each other is simply too powerful to deny. And yet, their life together is anything but the fairytale they dreamed it would be.
Heartbreak and family secrets push their relationship to the brink. Testing their love in ways Sadie never imagined. Through shared grief and unwavering support, Sadie and Theo’s love becomes an unbreakable force, giving them the strength they need to fight for the life they yearn for.
Sadie and Theo’s connection is immediate, electric, and woven with their shared joy of all things nerdy. What starts as a whirlwind convention romance quickly deepens. But when Sadie discovers who Theo really is behind the Batman mask, a dark shadow looms over their blossoming love.
Still, Sadie chooses her billionaire nerd because what they feel for each other is simply too powerful to deny. And yet, their life together is anything but the fairytale they dreamed it would be.
Heartbreak and family secrets push their relationship to the brink. Testing their love in ways Sadie never imagined. Through shared grief and unwavering support, Sadie and Theo’s love becomes an unbreakable force, giving them the strength they need to fight for the life they yearn for.
421 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2021
6 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Caitriona Drexler
8 books69 followersCaitriona Drexler weaves passionate and unforgettable stories, igniting the spark of romance in every reader. By day, she applies her analytical mind as a data-driven art historian. This keen eye for detail and narrative translates seamlessly into her writing, where she crafts epic love stories brimming with spice and emotional depth. A lifelong reader and dreamer, Caitriona found her true calling in the wake of a traumatic breakup, embracing the power of storytelling to create worlds that resonate with the heart. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, son, and two feline companions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 24, 2022
I’m so worn out from crying and yelling and fighting with my own emotions.....
🦄🦄🦄
After years of loneliness, Sadie reaches a breaking point and calls off the engagement with her high school sweetheart. Now the life she had planned with Danny is shattered into pieces, but Sadie can’t go back, or she will drown in unhappiness. Hoping to feel complete again, Sadie throws herself into a life of uncertainty. During her annual trip to New York Comic Con, she unexpectedly meets a guy on the show floor.
Her instant connection with Theo only gets stronger as they spend the weekend geeking out together. But their potential future relationship is threatened after Sadie learns who Theo's father is. Determined not to let their baggage get in the way of what could be real love and true friendship, Sadie and Theo put their faith in each other.
🦄🦄🦄
A Life Unplanned is a contemporary romance novel by Caitriona Dexler. It's a swoon worthy will-they won't-they novel with a bit of angst that's perfect to read with a cup of tea. Resonating with Sadie isn't hard because we've all been in relationships that have a lot of red flags, but it's hard to let go because you've formed a connection with your partner. But, sometimes things end so that life can show you what lies ahead and once you get the taste of true love, you'll look back and wonder why you let yourself be miserable. Sadie's willingness to end said miserable relationship shows how strong she truly is, because not many people have the ability to accept that a relationship is failed (even if it's the other person's fault).
Theo is a mixture of perfect on the surface and mysterious within. I love their relationship, and I love him. When he says, “Because she has a heart the size of the Empire State Building.” I melted into a puddle of gooeyness.
The plot of this book simple yet entertaining, however it would have been a bit better if the writing was a little more concise. There were times when it felt bulky, as if parts of the story were written as fillers that did not necessarily add purpose to the plot or character(s) development.
This book gives a positive look at one of the most heartbreaking events in a person's life. Filled with betrayal, love, friendship and jealousy, this book's not only perfect for romance lovers, but for those who need to view life in a different manner.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 8.5/10
Melina L.
🦄🦄🦄
After years of loneliness, Sadie reaches a breaking point and calls off the engagement with her high school sweetheart. Now the life she had planned with Danny is shattered into pieces, but Sadie can’t go back, or she will drown in unhappiness. Hoping to feel complete again, Sadie throws herself into a life of uncertainty. During her annual trip to New York Comic Con, she unexpectedly meets a guy on the show floor.
Her instant connection with Theo only gets stronger as they spend the weekend geeking out together. But their potential future relationship is threatened after Sadie learns who Theo's father is. Determined not to let their baggage get in the way of what could be real love and true friendship, Sadie and Theo put their faith in each other.
🦄🦄🦄
A Life Unplanned is a contemporary romance novel by Caitriona Dexler. It's a swoon worthy will-they won't-they novel with a bit of angst that's perfect to read with a cup of tea. Resonating with Sadie isn't hard because we've all been in relationships that have a lot of red flags, but it's hard to let go because you've formed a connection with your partner. But, sometimes things end so that life can show you what lies ahead and once you get the taste of true love, you'll look back and wonder why you let yourself be miserable. Sadie's willingness to end said miserable relationship shows how strong she truly is, because not many people have the ability to accept that a relationship is failed (even if it's the other person's fault).
Theo is a mixture of perfect on the surface and mysterious within. I love their relationship, and I love him. When he says, “Because she has a heart the size of the Empire State Building.” I melted into a puddle of gooeyness.
The plot of this book simple yet entertaining, however it would have been a bit better if the writing was a little more concise. There were times when it felt bulky, as if parts of the story were written as fillers that did not necessarily add purpose to the plot or character(s) development.
This book gives a positive look at one of the most heartbreaking events in a person's life. Filled with betrayal, love, friendship and jealousy, this book's not only perfect for romance lovers, but for those who need to view life in a different manner.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 8.5/10
Melina L.
May 8, 2023
I really enjoyed this book more than I expect to, which is always a great surprise. Theo and Sadie were so good together. They had a good "meet cute". Although, this book is more than a "rom-com." Not that there is anything wrong with rom-coms as I do enjoy them as well. I just did not want readers thinking this was a light and fluffy read. The story is rich with a good storyline and engaging characters that readers will embrace.
The first half of the story really just seemed like Theo and Sadie getting to know each other very well on a personal level. Yet, there was nothing distasteful about it and in fact, I did not mind as they were so good together. However, the latter half of the book is where the story did change and got more "meatful" in the storyline. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and do look forward to reading another by this author.
The first half of the story really just seemed like Theo and Sadie getting to know each other very well on a personal level. Yet, there was nothing distasteful about it and in fact, I did not mind as they were so good together. However, the latter half of the book is where the story did change and got more "meatful" in the storyline. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and do look forward to reading another by this author.
May 26, 2022
Considering this is the authors debut novel she covered so much! I do think a lot of content was packed into an average sized book, I would have enjoyed more details in the story and possibly have it dragged out into a 2 or 3 book series. Theo and Sadie have amazing chemistry and the back story is fascinating. I just wish that instead of such big things being glazed over each chapter, we would have had more scene setting. I cannot wait to see what else this author comes up with in the future.
April 2, 2022
For the past few weeks, I have been reading and reviewing either non-fiction, or serious thriller books. So, when I was approached to review this particular concoction of words, I couldn't say no even when I tried. I have been emotionally and mentally exhausted after taking in so much of lessons from the non-fiction and playing the guessing game and being constantly on the edge with the thrillers. The morning I began this book, I made a nice coffee for myself and started reading in a flow, effortlessly, without thinking much, and there I had, a pleasantly relaxing change of pace.
Story revolves around Sadie, a young girl in her twenties who had her life planned through and through. That planned life turned predictable and we all know that the predictable is boring (to say the least). After a tragic end to her long-term relationship, she found her lover in Comic-con no less, and there began her story in full vigor.
Theo, a nerd and a heir to a rich family in New York, falls in love with Sadie at first sight. Their journey, far from smooth, is whirldwind and full of twists at the least expected places. The story travels fast through their romance turning into a marriage, but not without complications. With concept of an epidemic, recurrent miscarriages, childhood trauma and depression, the characters are well-written, story line is captivating, and the wholesome read is quite pleasing.
What I liked?
The accurate depiction of what happens after an episode of miscarriage or infertility. I could unfortunately relate and I was appalled at how precise the author is. I loved the side characters like Sadie's brother, his husband, her best friend and her husband. The personalities outshined in the most realistic way possible.
And girls, settle for no one less than Theo ;).
What I didn't like?
There is nothing major I disliked apart from a little bizzare plot here and there. I would want to know a little more about Sadie's mother who makes a major part of the storyline.
My Verdict:
A must-read for all the readers who love romance.
Story revolves around Sadie, a young girl in her twenties who had her life planned through and through. That planned life turned predictable and we all know that the predictable is boring (to say the least). After a tragic end to her long-term relationship, she found her lover in Comic-con no less, and there began her story in full vigor.
Theo, a nerd and a heir to a rich family in New York, falls in love with Sadie at first sight. Their journey, far from smooth, is whirldwind and full of twists at the least expected places. The story travels fast through their romance turning into a marriage, but not without complications. With concept of an epidemic, recurrent miscarriages, childhood trauma and depression, the characters are well-written, story line is captivating, and the wholesome read is quite pleasing.
What I liked?
The accurate depiction of what happens after an episode of miscarriage or infertility. I could unfortunately relate and I was appalled at how precise the author is. I loved the side characters like Sadie's brother, his husband, her best friend and her husband. The personalities outshined in the most realistic way possible.
And girls, settle for no one less than Theo ;).
What I didn't like?
There is nothing major I disliked apart from a little bizzare plot here and there. I would want to know a little more about Sadie's mother who makes a major part of the storyline.
My Verdict:
A must-read for all the readers who love romance.
September 28, 2022
So many things to say about this book, but I am first gonna say the only reason I have to not given this a 5 stars. Because I loved it enough for a 5 stars rating, but in the first spicy scene there is no talk at all about protection, using condoms, test or contraception, they have just met and having sex for the first time, it is a important conversation to have or condoms must be mentioned, for me this is important enough to take one star from the rating. But other than that this book was perfect. And the spice was amazing.
Theo is my brand new book boyfriend. ❤️ he is simply perfect. (Just so you know, no-one else can claim him, his mine )
This book tell a love story I wish I could have. They share a very intense unconditional love and friendship, the kind of love that even if the relationship doesn't work out it will never leave you.
It is written in 1st and 2nd person. When we are reading about Sadie she is telling us the story but we also have insights in to Theo's and other's side characters in the story that are told in 3rd person, and I loved this variation. It was very easy to visualise.
The main plot is the romance between sadie and Theo and how their lifes evolved, the book talk about a period of few years in the characters lifes, showing how their lifes didn't go according to what they had planned, as it always happens, but it was in the end much better than what they had planned. But there is also a small sub plot with a murder mystery in the past that they are investigating. And all the hardships they go through. I ugly cried a lot with this book, something I didn't expect, this book was a lot of things I didn't expect.
There were so many references to things I love, starting with Dr who, as a whovian myself I loved reading the references and of course sadie cosplay ❤️
Trigger warning ⚠️ because I know many of you are triggered because of that, there is pregnancy and miscarriage in the book, so make sure you are ready before reading.
I will also encourage the author to add this as TW at the beginning of the book.
Theo is my brand new book boyfriend. ❤️ he is simply perfect. (Just so you know, no-one else can claim him, his mine )
This book tell a love story I wish I could have. They share a very intense unconditional love and friendship, the kind of love that even if the relationship doesn't work out it will never leave you.
It is written in 1st and 2nd person. When we are reading about Sadie she is telling us the story but we also have insights in to Theo's and other's side characters in the story that are told in 3rd person, and I loved this variation. It was very easy to visualise.
The main plot is the romance between sadie and Theo and how their lifes evolved, the book talk about a period of few years in the characters lifes, showing how their lifes didn't go according to what they had planned, as it always happens, but it was in the end much better than what they had planned. But there is also a small sub plot with a murder mystery in the past that they are investigating. And all the hardships they go through. I ugly cried a lot with this book, something I didn't expect, this book was a lot of things I didn't expect.
There were so many references to things I love, starting with Dr who, as a whovian myself I loved reading the references and of course sadie cosplay ❤️
Trigger warning ⚠️ because I know many of you are triggered because of that, there is pregnancy and miscarriage in the book, so make sure you are ready before reading.
I will also encourage the author to add this as TW at the beginning of the book.
Read
August 7, 2023Sadie’s life has suddenly changed when she discovers her fiancé has cheated on her, although she did suspect it for some time. Newly liberated, she sets out to rid herself of the loneliness she had been feeling for years and attends New York Comic Con. She has a meet-cute with Theo and the story picks up from there.
I found this to be entertaining and adorable. Sadie and Theo are perfect for each other. Also, it was such a nice surprise when a little murder mystery snuck in there. So unexpected, but it definitely made my rating go up from a three. I recommend this to nerdy romance readers as I know they’ll enjoy this immensely.
I found this to be entertaining and adorable. Sadie and Theo are perfect for each other. Also, it was such a nice surprise when a little murder mystery snuck in there. So unexpected, but it definitely made my rating go up from a three. I recommend this to nerdy romance readers as I know they’ll enjoy this immensely.
August 23, 2022
What an emotional roller coaster of a contemporary romance book! This had the highs and lows I think a lot of women and couples go through. It was unique to me, compared to other contemporary romances, because it followed a couple from the day they met until many years into their future together. It also contained duel POV, for readers who like to know what the other romantic lead is thinking or experiencing more directly. While it is definitely on the more serious side, and deals with some serious topics, it is handled very well by the author. Was happy to have come across this one.
October 4, 2022
A Life Unplanned is the debut novel by Caitriona Drexler, and it stars Sadie, who is going through so much emotional turmoil, after breaking her engagement to her high-school sweetheart.
Her life seems in ruins but she decides to go on her annual trip to New York Comic Con. There she meets Batman, or rather Theo, and the sparks keep flying. Has fate brought her a second chance?
This novel was a refreshing surprise, I thoroughly enjoy reading it and I recommend everyone to add this one to their TBR ;)
Her life seems in ruins but she decides to go on her annual trip to New York Comic Con. There she meets Batman, or rather Theo, and the sparks keep flying. Has fate brought her a second chance?
This novel was a refreshing surprise, I thoroughly enjoy reading it and I recommend everyone to add this one to their TBR ;)
November 23, 2022
I was a roller coaster of emotions with this one! Sadie had her life all planned out, until she found her fiance was cheating on her. She tries to pick up the pieces & at Comic-con meets an emerald-eyed Batman. Sadie & Theo were a perfect match. The novel chronicles a series of life events that hit all the emotional triggers. Love, loss, anger, forgiveness...literally ALL the feels.
I enjoyed the book, I would have preferred a first-person perspective with multiple POVs, but overall very much enjoyed the plot and characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I enjoyed the book, I would have preferred a first-person perspective with multiple POVs, but overall very much enjoyed the plot and characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
May 25, 2022
ARC review.
I absolutely love the idea of a meet cute at Comic Con and this one was absolutely adorable.
Sadie had been through a tough breakup and did the only thing she could see fit. Had her hoe phase (as she should have) now she is ready to find the one and move on. She meets a stranger on the floor of Comic-Con and immediately there’s a connection.
These two didn’t have a perfect relationship. It was packed with emotion. The twist were shocking and heartbreaking. Theo and Sadie had great chemistry between them and their beginning was so cool. Sadie’s confidence was great and I absolutely loved Theo. The last half was very heavy and very emotionally charged.
A little nit-picky things for me were the perspective changes. In the beginning, Sadie is written in first person and Theos is written in third person. I wish there were names before the changes to tell me who’s POV we were reading. Especially when it changed from paragraph to paragraph. I know a lot of people this isn’t a big deal, but as someone who’s brain can’t switch perspectives back and forth easily, it took me out of the story just a little.
Other than that this was a really good read! The emotions were deep and real. The epilogue was SO good and helped so much.
I absolutely love the idea of a meet cute at Comic Con and this one was absolutely adorable.
Sadie had been through a tough breakup and did the only thing she could see fit. Had her hoe phase (as she should have) now she is ready to find the one and move on. She meets a stranger on the floor of Comic-Con and immediately there’s a connection.
These two didn’t have a perfect relationship. It was packed with emotion. The twist were shocking and heartbreaking. Theo and Sadie had great chemistry between them and their beginning was so cool. Sadie’s confidence was great and I absolutely loved Theo. The last half was very heavy and very emotionally charged.
A little nit-picky things for me were the perspective changes. In the beginning, Sadie is written in first person and Theos is written in third person. I wish there were names before the changes to tell me who’s POV we were reading. Especially when it changed from paragraph to paragraph. I know a lot of people this isn’t a big deal, but as someone who’s brain can’t switch perspectives back and forth easily, it took me out of the story just a little.
Other than that this was a really good read! The emotions were deep and real. The epilogue was SO good and helped so much.
May 11, 2022
A cute love story
This was an emotional roller coaster! Sadie and Theo's love story was a beautiful reading experience. The ups and downs they faced were very realistic, and the author did a great job bringing us into their world. The POV switches were a bit difficult to read and understand who's viewpoint we were in. I also wish there was a content warning about miscarriages because I was so not in the right mindset when I read through that part. Overall it is a great story with enough love, drama, and steam to make this a great read.
This was an emotional roller coaster! Sadie and Theo's love story was a beautiful reading experience. The ups and downs they faced were very realistic, and the author did a great job bringing us into their world. The POV switches were a bit difficult to read and understand who's viewpoint we were in. I also wish there was a content warning about miscarriages because I was so not in the right mindset when I read through that part. Overall it is a great story with enough love, drama, and steam to make this a great read.
January 3, 2023
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I knew I wanted to read this book when I saw the meet-cute was at a comics convention, never mind one of the main characters cosplays as Amy Pond. Drexler deftly draws us into their romance, taking time to explore all the minute attractions and how they add up -- it gets very spicy very quickly!
I appreciated how most of their challenges weren't internal, as with most romance, but external forces that get in their way. As much as I love romance stories of all sorts, the trope of miscommunication gets old, but it barely appears in "A Life Unplanned," which is a welcome change that kept me engaged in their success.
That being said, many external factors seemed to pop up when they were needed for the plot, just to disappear a little too easily. Some key elements of their story were never hinted at before they were needed to move the plot along, which was jarring.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
However, this was one of the only romance novels I've read where we hear about their life through marriage, and it was still enjoyable and not straining to keep their relationship engaging. Drexler gets into some weighty material, including multiple miscarriages. Her handling of how it changes their friendships and marriage was true to life, and I'm glad to see that topic expressed in a more realistic way than other books do (minus the resolution).
Regardless of the quibbles above, I still stayed up to finish it in one night and was always rooting for the couple's happily ever after, which to me, makes for a great romance read!
I knew I wanted to read this book when I saw the meet-cute was at a comics convention, never mind one of the main characters cosplays as Amy Pond. Drexler deftly draws us into their romance, taking time to explore all the minute attractions and how they add up -- it gets very spicy very quickly!
I appreciated how most of their challenges weren't internal, as with most romance, but external forces that get in their way. As much as I love romance stories of all sorts, the trope of miscommunication gets old, but it barely appears in "A Life Unplanned," which is a welcome change that kept me engaged in their success.
That being said, many external factors seemed to pop up when they were needed for the plot, just to disappear a little too easily. Some key elements of their story were never hinted at before they were needed to move the plot along, which was jarring.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
However, this was one of the only romance novels I've read where we hear about their life through marriage, and it was still enjoyable and not straining to keep their relationship engaging. Drexler gets into some weighty material, including multiple miscarriages. Her handling of how it changes their friendships and marriage was true to life, and I'm glad to see that topic expressed in a more realistic way than other books do (minus the resolution).
Regardless of the quibbles above, I still stayed up to finish it in one night and was always rooting for the couple's happily ever after, which to me, makes for a great romance read!
December 27, 2023
A modern day West Side Story, Caitriona Drexler's debut novel A Life Unplanned is about a romance that never should have happened but is too strong to be denied. Sadie isn't exactly a champion of love when she meets Theo at the New York Comic Con. She's called off her engagement to her high school sweetheart, a man who doesn't understand the concept of monogamy. And she's been living under the roof of her lovebird newlywed friends - all while nursing a broken heart. But then she meets Theo and something clicks. Here's a man who's her perfect match, from his mutual interested in cosplay to his mesmerizing shade of green eyes. And the way he treats her like a princess is something to get used to. But then she learns his last name, and the tragic way their families are connected threatens to tear them apart.
What I loved about this story was how the author didn't make the MC's relationship this perfect union. There were several hiccups and tragedies Sadie and Theo had to overcome, real life stuff that could have ended their relationship. But the way they kept coming back together was magnetic and heart-achingly beautiful. I also loved the special friendships Sadie and Theo have, especially with Emma and Chris. One thing that took a little getting used to the way the author switched POVs from 1st person to 3rd person as she gave each MC a voice, but once I realized the style, I appreciated getting an inside look at both Sadie's and Theo's thoughts and feelings. I think this is a book any romance lover would love to read.
What I loved about this story was how the author didn't make the MC's relationship this perfect union. There were several hiccups and tragedies Sadie and Theo had to overcome, real life stuff that could have ended their relationship. But the way they kept coming back together was magnetic and heart-achingly beautiful. I also loved the special friendships Sadie and Theo have, especially with Emma and Chris. One thing that took a little getting used to the way the author switched POVs from 1st person to 3rd person as she gave each MC a voice, but once I realized the style, I appreciated getting an inside look at both Sadie's and Theo's thoughts and feelings. I think this is a book any romance lover would love to read.
May 9, 2022
Sadie gets her life turned upside down when she realizes Danny has been cheating on her. She has been with him for years and thought that he was the one. She gets in a rut but her good friends Emma and Chris take her to Comic Con.
At Comic Con she meets Batman and is instantly attracted to him. She is hypnotized by his green eyes. They have instant chemistry. There will be some steamy parts to read. Some of the time I was also laughing by the candor in which Sadie says things. Sadie seems not to have a filter which I enjoyed.
What I really liked about the book is that Sadie and Theo have problems that could very easily tear their relationship apart but instead they learn to lean on each other and work things out. Sadie has a temper and she is isn't afraid to say how she feels and stomp off when it gets to be too much for her. You can feel Sadie's highs, lows and pain coming off the pages and it is an emotional roller coaster but that is life. Learning to live with all that is tossed at you. She is blessed with good friends to help her through it all.
I loved Theo and how he treated Sadie like a princess and loved her so much. Also that he cared
enough to form a relationship with Xander, Emma and Chris because he knew it was important to Sadie. That is one guy you want to keep around.
This book made me laugh and was a fun escape. It is endearing and quirky and lets you believe for every nerd out there that you will find your nerd soul mate who gets you just as you are.
At Comic Con she meets Batman and is instantly attracted to him. She is hypnotized by his green eyes. They have instant chemistry. There will be some steamy parts to read. Some of the time I was also laughing by the candor in which Sadie says things. Sadie seems not to have a filter which I enjoyed.
What I really liked about the book is that Sadie and Theo have problems that could very easily tear their relationship apart but instead they learn to lean on each other and work things out. Sadie has a temper and she is isn't afraid to say how she feels and stomp off when it gets to be too much for her. You can feel Sadie's highs, lows and pain coming off the pages and it is an emotional roller coaster but that is life. Learning to live with all that is tossed at you. She is blessed with good friends to help her through it all.
I loved Theo and how he treated Sadie like a princess and loved her so much. Also that he cared
enough to form a relationship with Xander, Emma and Chris because he knew it was important to Sadie. That is one guy you want to keep around.
This book made me laugh and was a fun escape. It is endearing and quirky and lets you believe for every nerd out there that you will find your nerd soul mate who gets you just as you are.
June 5, 2022
A Life Unplanned is a book about how life doesn’t always work out as you plan it out for yourself, and how sometimes that is for the better.
As the story begins, we are very quickly made aware that Sadie is in a relationship that is exactly what she thought she wanted, and that she is miserable. We’ve all been there, she keeps trying to make a square peg fit into a round hole and not only is it not happening, Danny is sticking it in somebody else’s hole behind her back! When she knows for certain this is happening she takes swift and decisive action and the real story begins.
Sadie becoming single feels real, it’s a little bit freeing, a little bit gloomy and a lot the right move for her. Her friends are supportive, and they do what good friends do, try to help her find herself again. In doing so, she also meets Theo and things…. Develop.
I am keeping this review spoiler free, the above happens pretty fast and is not the main story, the main story is a real, cozy, sometimes fraught story of a boy and a girl with some pitfalls and unexpected backstory and how they come together. There is a lot of real life in this book. It felt real and had some hard themes but they were handled well and ultimately I got my happy ending and so did Sadie and Theo!
If you're looking for a purely cozy romance, this is not that. But it is partly that, with more than a little real life mixed in. I truly enjoyed this book.
A big thank you to the author for providing me with an advance review copy for free, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the story begins, we are very quickly made aware that Sadie is in a relationship that is exactly what she thought she wanted, and that she is miserable. We’ve all been there, she keeps trying to make a square peg fit into a round hole and not only is it not happening, Danny is sticking it in somebody else’s hole behind her back! When she knows for certain this is happening she takes swift and decisive action and the real story begins.
Sadie becoming single feels real, it’s a little bit freeing, a little bit gloomy and a lot the right move for her. Her friends are supportive, and they do what good friends do, try to help her find herself again. In doing so, she also meets Theo and things…. Develop.
I am keeping this review spoiler free, the above happens pretty fast and is not the main story, the main story is a real, cozy, sometimes fraught story of a boy and a girl with some pitfalls and unexpected backstory and how they come together. There is a lot of real life in this book. It felt real and had some hard themes but they were handled well and ultimately I got my happy ending and so did Sadie and Theo!
If you're looking for a purely cozy romance, this is not that. But it is partly that, with more than a little real life mixed in. I truly enjoyed this book.
A big thank you to the author for providing me with an advance review copy for free, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 30, 2022
The book portrays the life of Sadie as she maneuvers love and heartbreak. Sadie tries to pull herself together over and over as she realizes that her fiancé is not a good person. She spirals out of control, losing herself to lustful things. After numerous one-night stands, she finally meets someone who she really wants to get to know. He is a nice guy, and the sexual attraction is immediate. After confessing her numerous trysts with other men, he still loves her and tries to help her. Her brother tries to help her too. Sadie is surrounded by supporting family and friends, which is a positive theme in the book. The main characters work together to solve a family mystery that entangles both of their families in the remainder of the book. I liked that the story starts out with a good idea. However, the story lacked details to really show the love that developed between the various couples. The book has a lot of detailed sexual scenes, which takes away from the actual story. There was more detail about sex than about love, friendship, and the family mystery. I also wished that the story developed more through dialogue than through summary narratives. The writing was very simplistic. This would make a good young readers book if it weren't for the sexual scenes. I would like to have known more about the mystery in the book, but it didn’t really take off. I think this book easily could have been two books to show the love developing in a more natural way. On balance, I like that the book has a happy ending, and it shows that you can find love after heartbreak.
November 23, 2022
A Life Unplanned is a romantic story about two people who fall in love at comic con. The protagonist has just gotten out of a relationship that...wasn't what it used to be - to say the least. However, her new romance is not going to be smooth sailing in any way.
This book had me at Comic-Con. Note: it's NOT a romantic comedy. It's more like a thriller in some ways - but also not quite. So...I'm compromising and calling it a thrilling romance.
I LOVED the chemistry between Sadie and Theo. Their family dynamics were REALLY interesting. My one gripe is that...everything that WASN'T their relationship felt sort of skimmed over. Time jumps were a bit strange and if a plot point didn't focus on Theo and Sadie's relationship a LOT, it felt sort of glossed over.
Nonetheless, I really liked Sadie and Theo as characters. I loved how they bonded and I liked seeing their lives progress together with their families.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings for this one as there are a few things that may be a bit difficult to handle for some readers. There are a couple sensitive topics, as well as some steamy romance.
As a professional nerd, I liked this book. It wasn't perfect. It has a few things that I would've liked to see tightened up. But I had a good time with it and I'm glad I read it. The heartfelt moments really had a grip on me.
This book had me at Comic-Con. Note: it's NOT a romantic comedy. It's more like a thriller in some ways - but also not quite. So...I'm compromising and calling it a thrilling romance.
I LOVED the chemistry between Sadie and Theo. Their family dynamics were REALLY interesting. My one gripe is that...everything that WASN'T their relationship felt sort of skimmed over. Time jumps were a bit strange and if a plot point didn't focus on Theo and Sadie's relationship a LOT, it felt sort of glossed over.
Nonetheless, I really liked Sadie and Theo as characters. I loved how they bonded and I liked seeing their lives progress together with their families.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings for this one as there are a few things that may be a bit difficult to handle for some readers. There are a couple sensitive topics, as well as some steamy romance.
As a professional nerd, I liked this book. It wasn't perfect. It has a few things that I would've liked to see tightened up. But I had a good time with it and I'm glad I read it. The heartfelt moments really had a grip on me.
April 19, 2022
A Life Unplanned is a steamy contemporary romance with lovable characters and an intriguing plot. I connected with Sadie from the very first lines. She broke up with her high school sweetheart fiance after finding out he cheated on her. Strong and independent, she works as an editor and lives in New Jersey. She had given up on love when she bumped into Theo at Comic-Con New York. As a geek myself, I loved the original setup. The couple shared an adorable meet-cute, and I instantly loved their chemistry. Theo went as Batman, and like the DC character, he also had a secret life. He is a great well-rounded hero, who fell hard for Sadie, and I rooted for him. Gentle, hard-working, supportive, Theo is the perfect book boyfriend!
The love scenes are super hot! I had to stop and fan myself several times. Not only that, but I could feel their love developing outside the bedroom. Their relationship faces several obstacles, including a family secret that will leave you reeling. I treasured reading this novel and will undoubtedly read other works from this author!
The love scenes are super hot! I had to stop and fan myself several times. Not only that, but I could feel their love developing outside the bedroom. Their relationship faces several obstacles, including a family secret that will leave you reeling. I treasured reading this novel and will undoubtedly read other works from this author!
June 17, 2022
Theo and Sadie are adorable, lovable characters who build a solid foundation throughout this novel. We see them have probably one of the most adorable meet cutes I've ever read and watch things quickly grow from there. Like real life couples, they face many challenges in their relationship and witnessing how they handle these and adapt and grow was not only interesting but thought provoking at times. If you're looking for a fun, fluffy novel about 2 nerds, this is not your book. But if you want nerdiness mixed with real life angst, true love, a solid relationship, and something different than most romance novels out there these days, this book is for you.
The only thing keeping this from a 5 star rating is the fact that it is a dual pov that switches from first person to third person. I love dual pov, but they have to be in the same narration style. Every time the book would jump from Sadie to Theo it would throw me off and take me at least a page or two before I settled back in to the story. Otherwise, I really enjoyed and would highly recommend to anyone!
The only thing keeping this from a 5 star rating is the fact that it is a dual pov that switches from first person to third person. I love dual pov, but they have to be in the same narration style. Every time the book would jump from Sadie to Theo it would throw me off and take me at least a page or two before I settled back in to the story. Otherwise, I really enjoyed and would highly recommend to anyone!
May 8, 2022
This book was delightfully nerdy. It has a comic con meet cute, insta-love and cosplaying through out. Most romance books have a pretty predictable plot line- girl meets boy(s), they fall in love, something bad happens, they make it through, HEA. This book had that, but it also had so many other elements that even though I knew what the general plot was, I could never guess what was going to happen next. The MCs eventually get to their HEA, but they have so many realistic trials throughout the book and my heart ached for them. I was invested in them and their family and their friends and even their careers. If you find a typical romance boring, and you need something more (like secret identities and unsolved murders and restraining orders), this is the book for you.
This book is currently available on KU and as a paperback but is being re-released as a hardcover in October with a brand new cover!
This book is currently available on KU and as a paperback but is being re-released as a hardcover in October with a brand new cover!
August 17, 2022
A Life Unplanned by Caitriona Drexler is the perfect nerdy romance.
We are introduced to Sadie, who is in a long term relationship with her fiance Danny. But, despite her insistence that she loves him, she doesn't feel the spark anymore. They're together because it's comfortable. She finally breaks it off when she catches him cheating.
Sadie goes to NY Comic Con with her friends and ends up meeting the love of her life, Theo. He's absolutely perfect, and that Batman cosplay? Yes, please! However, behind that perfection is a dark family secret not even Theo is yet aware of.
If you're a nerd like me, you'll totally love this story. A Life Unplanned has heartache that we can all relate to in one way or another, but there's also so much joy and love it's almost contagious. You'll fall in love with Sadie and Theo almost instantly. Definitely pick up A Life Unplanned for your next read!
We are introduced to Sadie, who is in a long term relationship with her fiance Danny. But, despite her insistence that she loves him, she doesn't feel the spark anymore. They're together because it's comfortable. She finally breaks it off when she catches him cheating.
Sadie goes to NY Comic Con with her friends and ends up meeting the love of her life, Theo. He's absolutely perfect, and that Batman cosplay? Yes, please! However, behind that perfection is a dark family secret not even Theo is yet aware of.
If you're a nerd like me, you'll totally love this story. A Life Unplanned has heartache that we can all relate to in one way or another, but there's also so much joy and love it's almost contagious. You'll fall in love with Sadie and Theo almost instantly. Definitely pick up A Life Unplanned for your next read!
August 10, 2022
As a not so closet geek I couldn’t wait to dive into this book!
The story follows Sadie as she navigates her way through life following the break up of her hideous boyfriend. She she soon meets Theo at a chance meeting at Comic Con, where her life will be forever changed.
This is a book of romance, heartache with a dash of murder mystery thrown in for good measure.
I feel like this book could have either done with some editing, or made longer. There were so many big life events that were completed within a few pages, where I wish they had been expanded on. You felt the heartbreak but then it was a few years later in the next chapter so you couldn’t fully process the emotions before moving on.
The first half of the book started off quite funny, jolly and very steamy! The second half was more ‘grown up’, with the heartbreak of fertility challenges.
The story follows Sadie as she navigates her way through life following the break up of her hideous boyfriend. She she soon meets Theo at a chance meeting at Comic Con, where her life will be forever changed.
This is a book of romance, heartache with a dash of murder mystery thrown in for good measure.
I feel like this book could have either done with some editing, or made longer. There were so many big life events that were completed within a few pages, where I wish they had been expanded on. You felt the heartbreak but then it was a few years later in the next chapter so you couldn’t fully process the emotions before moving on.
The first half of the book started off quite funny, jolly and very steamy! The second half was more ‘grown up’, with the heartbreak of fertility challenges.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2022
I went into this book thinking it was going to be a cute steamy rom-com but it was definitely a lot more than that. It has humor, an adorable meet cute and such fun characters. The story also dives into some deeper issues that are realistic to what a couple may struggle with in real life. I loved both Sadie and Theo and they have amazing chemistry together. It was a fairly easy read and I did enjoy the book.
My only issue with the book was that it does skip around from first person to third person. For my ADHD brain I struggled to keep up with the changes a little bit. However, the story was good enough that I still read and enjoyed the book and will read future books by this author.
My only issue with the book was that it does skip around from first person to third person. For my ADHD brain I struggled to keep up with the changes a little bit. However, the story was good enough that I still read and enjoyed the book and will read future books by this author.
June 24, 2022
A Life Unplanned by Caitriona Drexler
4.5 stars ( rounded up )
What an amazing story. I really enjoyed this book! This book has so many nerdy references. To a nerd like myself, I was able to really enjoy a lot of the humor. This book definitely made me miss going to conventions. I especially loved the Buffy the Vampire reference! Emma and Chris are the best friends ever. I love how supportive of Sadie and Theo they are. Sadie and Theo are just so amazing and swoon worthy. They have so much chemistry! I expected this book to get heavy and oh boy, it did. I laughed and yelled and cried. I love how the plot evolved and only wish I could have more.
Thank you so much for the gifted copy. I loved reading this so much!
4.5 stars ( rounded up )
What an amazing story. I really enjoyed this book! This book has so many nerdy references. To a nerd like myself, I was able to really enjoy a lot of the humor. This book definitely made me miss going to conventions. I especially loved the Buffy the Vampire reference! Emma and Chris are the best friends ever. I love how supportive of Sadie and Theo they are. Sadie and Theo are just so amazing and swoon worthy. They have so much chemistry! I expected this book to get heavy and oh boy, it did. I laughed and yelled and cried. I love how the plot evolved and only wish I could have more.
Thank you so much for the gifted copy. I loved reading this so much!
October 6, 2022
Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me. I would've loved for it to be dual point of view in first person narratives. I'm not a big fan of most third person narratives so when it went to that to discuss Theo's point of view I was disappointed. I also felt that there was some information that wasn't needed and found myself skimming through to finish the book.
I did like their little meet cute and how supportive Sadie's friends were. I also liked how she came out of her shell and realized what she wanted. Check the book out if you like cheesy romance but also check triggers.
I did like their little meet cute and how supportive Sadie's friends were. I also liked how she came out of her shell and realized what she wanted. Check the book out if you like cheesy romance but also check triggers.
August 10, 2022
Now, if you know me, you know I'm a major fantasy gal, but this book got me interested in reading romance novels again!! The characters are super likable, nerdy, and overall adorable. This book throws many twists at you with its sub-plot of murder!
Read if you like:
- spice
- character development
- romance with a touch of syi-fi
- nerd falling for secret nerd
- high profile boy falling for lower class girl
- realistic yet interesting character tribulations
- meet cute
Read if you like:
- spice
- character development
- romance with a touch of syi-fi
- nerd falling for secret nerd
- high profile boy falling for lower class girl
- realistic yet interesting character tribulations
- meet cute
May 31, 2022
**ARC**
October 10, 2022
"My hopes, my dreams, my plans all went up in flames. I was shaken awake, my eyes open for the first time to see the world around me. Chaos. But I didn’t unravel. I kept on going. I still existed. Somewhere out there was a life worth living. And though it hurt, though it was difficult to move on from what I thought was true love, that moment when I decided to live has become a keystone in my life."
Blurb: 💥After years of loneliness, Sadie reaches a breaking point and calls off the engagement with her high school sweetheart. Now the life she had planned with Danny is shattered into pieces, but Sadie can’t go back, or she will drown in unhappiness. Hoping to feel complete again, Sadie throws herself into a life of uncertainty. During her annual trip to New York Comic Con, she unexpectedly meets a guy on the show floor. 💥 Her instant connection with Theo only gets stronger as they spend the weekend geeking out together. But their potential future relationship is threatened after Sadie learns who Theo's father is. Determined not to let their baggage get in the way of what could be real love and true friendship, Sadie and Theo put their faith in each other.💥
My thoughts: Awww come meet the most loveable characters you will ever meet right here! I loved every almost every moment of this book, The meet-cute, everyone in this story and their character development, perfect spiciness, and even the uncommunicative moments (you know I hate those!) they weren't overplayed and it was a different situation that I could totally understand and it really contributed to the story line. The only part I started checking out on, which doesn't mean it's bad, for someone who's never had a desire for kids (millennial alert!) I felt the family planning was really drawn out, but the way the author wrote such a sensitive topic was really fantastic and just overall her writing style is really enjoyable!!
Thank you @katieandbreypa & one of my favorite ladies ever @author_tri_drexler for letting me be apart of this team!!
I give A life unplanned by Caitriona Drexler ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Blurb: 💥After years of loneliness, Sadie reaches a breaking point and calls off the engagement with her high school sweetheart. Now the life she had planned with Danny is shattered into pieces, but Sadie can’t go back, or she will drown in unhappiness. Hoping to feel complete again, Sadie throws herself into a life of uncertainty. During her annual trip to New York Comic Con, she unexpectedly meets a guy on the show floor. 💥 Her instant connection with Theo only gets stronger as they spend the weekend geeking out together. But their potential future relationship is threatened after Sadie learns who Theo's father is. Determined not to let their baggage get in the way of what could be real love and true friendship, Sadie and Theo put their faith in each other.💥
My thoughts: Awww come meet the most loveable characters you will ever meet right here! I loved every almost every moment of this book, The meet-cute, everyone in this story and their character development, perfect spiciness, and even the uncommunicative moments (you know I hate those!) they weren't overplayed and it was a different situation that I could totally understand and it really contributed to the story line. The only part I started checking out on, which doesn't mean it's bad, for someone who's never had a desire for kids (millennial alert!) I felt the family planning was really drawn out, but the way the author wrote such a sensitive topic was really fantastic and just overall her writing style is really enjoyable!!
Thank you @katieandbreypa & one of my favorite ladies ever @author_tri_drexler for letting me be apart of this team!!
I give A life unplanned by Caitriona Drexler ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 7, 2025
Sadie is a successful book editor with her whole life planned out, best friend Emma by her side. But she finds out her fiance of many years is cheating on her, and then he attacks her the next morning. Needless to say, it's a rough breakup.
Crushed, but not willing to give up her tradition, Sadie goes to Comic Con with Emma and her husband, Chris. She meets a man in a Batman costume, and they hit it off with amazing chemistry. This becomes the tale of their lives, of a deep connection both sexual (it gets very explicit in some scenes) and emotional. There's some history to be overcome, and Theo, her Batman, learns some secrets about his family's business that sicken him. There is definitely a Happily Ever After at the end of the book, and something that's even potentially world changing as well.
This book deals with some rough topics, including losing a child. It handles that very sensitive subject really well. I enjoyed this a lot, especially all the geeky references. It's very well done.
Crushed, but not willing to give up her tradition, Sadie goes to Comic Con with Emma and her husband, Chris. She meets a man in a Batman costume, and they hit it off with amazing chemistry. This becomes the tale of their lives, of a deep connection both sexual (it gets very explicit in some scenes) and emotional. There's some history to be overcome, and Theo, her Batman, learns some secrets about his family's business that sicken him. There is definitely a Happily Ever After at the end of the book, and something that's even potentially world changing as well.
This book deals with some rough topics, including losing a child. It handles that very sensitive subject really well. I enjoyed this a lot, especially all the geeky references. It's very well done.
June 16, 2023
Full of drama and well worth a read.
I was first drawn in by the striking cover, and when I read the blurb about Amy Pond and Batman I was hooked.
Following the breakdown of an unhappy relationship, Sadie (Amy) meets Theo disguised as Batman at a Comic-Con and they feel an instant mutual attraction. As the costumes melt away, they discover that a devastating and murky past relating to Theo’s father already connect them. Their relationship develops and, as light is shed on this dark history, we see that the past still has a major impact on Sadie and Theo’s future happiness.
Aside from being distracted by my Amy Pond crush, which made all the s3xy scenes even more so in my head (and there are plenty of them), this was a well-told story of a developing relationship with its many ups and downs. There’s a lot packed in to this one, and it’s well worth a read!
I was first drawn in by the striking cover, and when I read the blurb about Amy Pond and Batman I was hooked.
Following the breakdown of an unhappy relationship, Sadie (Amy) meets Theo disguised as Batman at a Comic-Con and they feel an instant mutual attraction. As the costumes melt away, they discover that a devastating and murky past relating to Theo’s father already connect them. Their relationship develops and, as light is shed on this dark history, we see that the past still has a major impact on Sadie and Theo’s future happiness.
Aside from being distracted by my Amy Pond crush, which made all the s3xy scenes even more so in my head (and there are plenty of them), this was a well-told story of a developing relationship with its many ups and downs. There’s a lot packed in to this one, and it’s well worth a read!
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