She’s hiding from her past. He’s grappling with his present. They’re not meant to be together, so why do they struggle staying apart?
Kit Jacobson's life hasn't turned out as she once dreamed. She’s a college dropout, works at the desk of an auto shop, lives with her cantankerous grandpa, and tries to avoid her creepy temporary boss. Things take a surprising turn when her teenage crush moves back to town. If only Aaron weren’t eleven years older and her brother’s best friend. He is totally off-limits.
Aaron Ledger is back in his hometown, living next door to his best friend. He has too much going on to let any woman distract him, until he meets grown-up Kit. She makes it difficult to remember his terrible track record with women and inability to commit. She’s the last person he ever wants to hurt, so he should stay away, but when he inherits a classic Mustang in need of restoration, there’s no one else he’d rather have help.
As they work together, it’s impossible to ignore their mutual attraction. With family drama, outside forces, and inside doubts working to keep them apart, are they brave enough to fight for a future with each other?
It’s Not Like It’s Fate is for readers wanting something sweet and humorous and features a brothers-best-friend romance with an age gap.
Visit Grace's website gracejcroy.com and join her MVR (Most Valuable Reader) group to get her e-book, KISS ME, JANE free.
She is the author of both historical and contemporary romance that is clean and uplifting.
Grace loves reading, writing, her cats, travel, and delicious potatoes. She lives in Utah in a little house at the bottom of a little mountain, where the snow piles high in the winter.
She graduated with a BA in English from Utah State University, and then went on to study Library and Information Science from Emporia State University. When she's not writing, she works as a librarian. It’s the second-best job in the world—she gets paid to buy books, plan awesome community events, and advise readers on what books to try next. Creating stories is, of course, the best job in the world.
Her favorite places to travel include New Zealand, California, and Paris. No matter how long she's away, she always loves to come home.
I really enjoyed this one. It was very relatable and believable. I loved how she showed good mental health practices!!! My mom was similar to his and it takes time and therapy to get through that. She would also need help. Yes so much is solved by the love of a good person but it's threw self love and others showing us how to heal that we work threw the really hard things in this life. I loved the positive affirmations:} The romance was so ON! I loved the back and forth and the chemistry! I loved that she kept him at a distance until she didn't. It worked so well that she jumped in with both feet. Very true to her old self, she was trying to get back too. This is a clean contemporary romance. No talk of religion. No violence or drug use.
Ok let’s see Kathleen or as she likes to be named, Kit, not Kitty, just Kit, is a skittish young adult who has suffered an abusive relationship that forced her to drop out of college and go back to her hometown where she alienated herself from her family and her friends and became kind of a hermit.
Aaron, her lifelong crush, who is 11 years her senior, comes back to said hometown. She makes it her sole mission to avoid him because she believes that he will hurt her. Though he was oblivious to her existence especially in any romantic form. She’s so shy, whispering to him whenever she dares to speak to him that she seems just downright rude. But he finds it funny and keeps trying to push her buttons.
This book could have been so much more. The Plot is promising. I love that she’s into car mechanics and she loves restoring classic cars and she drives a nighthawk motorcycle. That’s just badass cool.
However, the narrative is so dull. It took me back to primary school when my teachers were adamant on me writing “short and concise sentences” so I don’t get all juggled up in long nonsensical sentences. SHORT AND CONCISE.
Scenes that are supposed to be emotionally charged and steal a tear out of the readers are actually “eye rolling”, non believable, and …next!
He can’t stop thinking about her yet when an old friend of his ex girlfriend flirts with him he quickly assures her wrong assumption that Kit “Kitty” is his best friend’s KID sister and he DEFINITELY is not dating her. She’s mad and jealous. He apologises multiple times in a suggested text in what amounts to half a paragraph to which she sends him an apology of her own. And that is that. Dunno whether to be mad. Upset. Laugh or stop reading!
I absolutely hate it when a man belittles a woman when there is another potential female date and the woman actually ends up forgiving him. Stupid boneless FMC. If you feel so self insecure just abort mission and restore some dignity.
Seems I am still stuck in my unfortunate streak of DNF books. I had my fill of this one. Bye bye. Sayonara. Hasta nunca.
Are the characters so well-written, so 3-dimensional that they all feel like a flesh and blood? Absolutely.
And the addition of PTSD and anxiety and emotional struggles and therapy....AND dysfunctional parents messed-up families? It takes what could be overly-fluffy and makes it solid and something to chew over. The first book in this series also made me feel that way. I've been trying to figure out why this series feels different from other romcoms where I'm rolling my eyes every love-speech, and it's the realism. Modern romantic book fantasy, but at the core is something relatable.
And a guy who's willing to use an English accent and dress up in regency gear and go to a ball for his girl? *Chef's kiss*
On to book three! I love the Jacobsons so I'm looking forward to peeking in on the different families and seeing how they're doing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Kit Jacobson works at the front desk at an auto shop, but she knows lots about cars and working on them. She also has done work on classic cars. So when Aaron Ledger, her brother’s best friend and her crush who is 11 years older than she is, comes back to town, they get a chance to work together on his classic Mustang that needs some restoration work. Despite Aaron’s own difficult life, he is a sweetheart and he cares about Kit. Is this the right time now to let themselves fall in love? Are they willing to try to find the HEA that is waiting for them?
This book was adorable. So adorable in fact that it ruined me for the next two books I tried to read after this. I’m a bit of a serial reader so when I finish one book I start another. But the next two on my TBR list just couldn’t capture my attention like this one did. Giving in, I reread my favorite scenes from this book!
I loved the journey that this book took me on. Seeing how Kit was so withdrawn at the beginning of the story, living a shell of an existence years after her ex-boyfriend drama and current Creeper Jones boss drama was really heart wrenching. She was a lovable character from a great family but she felt broken and like she was frozen in time. Seeing her come back to life thanks to Aaron, a classic Mustang rebuild, and Regency Romance books was an incredible journey. Aaron had a real protector/nurturer persona. Seeing his family and his work push all this buttons had me pulling out my hair. His mother would give me nightmares I’m sure. That being said, through it all there was a lot of humor and some snark that made it fun to read despite the heavy topics that were dealt with here.
I had previously read the first in this series and loved it. But I wouldn’t have been lost to start with this book since they are stand alone. There are a bunch of great characters in this story and I hope they all get their own stories, including Aaron’s family.
I received an advance review copy but this is a book that I was going to check out on KU anyway. These are my own thoughts. I recommend this book because it’s more than just a fun story but makes you feel lighter at the end and that anything is possible.
Rating: PG, clean, has some serious topics in this story like discussion of a past unhealthy relationship with an ex, family drama like divorce and abandonment. Normally I prefer light stories but this book made these heavy topics not feel so heavy. There was humor and eventually hope that really stuck with me after I finished reading.
This was everything I had hoped for, and more, in Kit and Aaron's story. The moment I put down "It's Not Like It's a Secret," I couldn't wait for Kit and Aaron's story and now that it has come and am oh so happy. I adore this story!
Grace J. Croy brought back all the characters I loved, staying true to who they are, while also showing us the growth that has taken place in Kit and Aaron's lives since, they last saw each other. They've each gone through difficult things, had heart ache, disappointments, high moments, low ones and more and the topics that Croy broaches and handled with care. They really touch the reader's heart down to the core. Kit comes to truly discover who she is and what makes her happy, she finds a voice, just as her sister-in-law did in her own story. I love how Croy brings these characters to life through real struggles of the human life in a chaotic but fun world.
The tidbits of regency romance are such fun additions to this story. Aaron's reaction to what a regency ball is and all it entails is priceless. Just wait till you read it. And when you do you will love Aaron even more. He's the hero we all want to Kit, and you can't help but love the way their story unfolds. I seriously could not put this story down. Definitely read this wonderful, sweet romance and be prepared to read it cover to cover-give yourself a chunk of free time because you will want it.
Thank you Grace J. Croy for this beautiful story, loved every minute of reading it. If you want to keep writing about the sisters, I'll totally be there for it!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
3.5⭐️ // Plot Moods: emotional hopeful inspiring Plot Pace: medium Plot- or character-driven? Character Strong character development? Yes Loveable characters? Yes Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
A sweet, wholesome, brother’s best friend romance. I really enjoyed it.
Giving it a 3.5 because of some structural issues. There’s strong character development of the FMC, but the development of the MMC isn’t as strong. He has depth for sure, but something doesn’t quite feel natural/in character for him at certain points mainly when his insecurities get the best of him and he breaks up with her. I think this would have been more believable if the chapter before he hadn’t had an epiphany about how much he loved her and how he wouldn’t let his insecurities keep him from her. It’s like he went from overcoming his insecurities to being ruled by them which felt like a major setback to his growth.
There were some other things, but I think they may be explained in other parts of this inter-connected stand-a-lone series. They aren’t so distracting that it took me out of the story.
I did appreciate how trauma was illustrated in this story and how therapy to help heal from trauma was portrayed.
Overall, a good read I would recommend to fans of sweet romances and readers looking for a light romantic drama
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Second, have you ever had a creepy co-worker? Ahh it’s awful! Kit works at a mechanic shop and is excellent with cars herself. While at work she is having to deal with a creepy fill in boss but she’s also dealing with the aftermath of a abusive relationship. I loved the strength she shows in this book. At the beginning of the book Kit is so broken and it’s so nice to see her slowly regain her inner strength.
Aaron is also dealing with his own problems. His mother is over demanding and manipulative. His job is awful and he’s burned out. Kit is his best friend Aarons little sister. She grew up having a crush on him. He just moved back in town after being gone for 8 years. Now he’s noticing Kit as more than his best friends little sister but she has gone thru some stuff. I also loved the friendship that grows and how they open up to each other.
sigghhh, I really loved this too!!! I couldn't put it down! I usually don't LOVE age gap romances, especially if they knew the girl when she was a baby but I thought it was handled really well here! There wasn't a lot of focus on their interactions as children, cuz Aaron truly didn't pay attention to Kit that much when she was young, instead, they had history which established a trusted foundation for them to build their friendship and then their relationship. My heart broke a lot for Aaron and I'm so glad to see him take steps to prioritize himself and his happiness. Also proud of Kit for going to therapy, I thnk it's so important to show that professional support sometimes is needed vs a new relationship that can empower you for sure, but it shouldn't be the only thing.
It’s Not Like It’s Fate is a great brother’s best friend, age gap romance! With wonderful character development, regency references in a contemporary setting, and swoonworthy romance, I had a hard time putting this book down.
I loved Kit and Aaron so much! Kit is healing from a past traumatic experience, and her journey is so well written. She has loved Aaron since she was young, but since he’s 11 years older than her, it took awhile until it was the right time. I loved how their relationship developed! And Aaron is such a wonderful hero. With a difficult family life, a stressful job, and an emotionally abusive mother, Aaron has a hard time knowing what love really is, but he still shows love to those around him. I appreciated how his character arc is written, and I teared up over some realizations he has towards the end of the book.
Though this book has some deeper and harder themes to it, everything is balanced out with humor and romance! Kit loves cars and regency romance, and I thought it was great how her love of regency novels played out in the story. I don’t know much about cars, but I thought that aspect of the story was interesting and I liked that part of Kit’s character.
This is a wonderful contemporary romance, and I will be eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series!
5/5 stars!
TW: harassment, an emotionally abusive mother, previous traumatic relationship referenced
Aaron has known Kit since the day she was born as he’s her best friends little sister (niece really, again it’s complicated), but it’s not until he returns to Arizona that he sees her as more than a kid with glasses. Their 11 year age gap and Kit’s trust issues thanks to an ex make their friendship the only thing between them until they spend lots of time rebuilding an old Mustang he’s inherited from his mothers 6th ex-husband…again it’s complicated.
Personally, the book could have been shorter, and definitely could have had some steam, but I really loved Aaron…and I was definitely pulling for Kit to find herself and her strength. Which she eventually did
Can’t get enough. A continuation of the first book set 7 years later. Follows Kit who is working at an auto repair shop and Aaron, an architect who has moved home after living in Connecticut. He is also Kit’s older brothers best friend from childhood. Kit has had a crush on him since she was 12, he is 11 years older. Many of the characters in the first book are developed further with the addition of several new ones
Omg i absolutely loved this story it pulled me in and had me captivated through the book. Grandpa Joe stole my heart big ok teddy bear. It had me feeling all the feels. This is the first book of Grace Cory that I have read and will not be the last I’m hooked now. This is a must read I could not put it down!!!!
A sweet brother's friend romance. A well written book with depth and romance. I related to the parts of dealing with family dysfunction but was encouraged how the characters grew through it and towards each other because of it. A great book I couldn't put down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love romcoms that are actually funny and this one had me laughing throughout. There were also some very serious themes and I thought it was all done so well. I laughed, I cried; my favorite things to do while reading a book. I just finished the first book in this series yesterday and this one today and can't wait to read all this authors books now.
The characters were believable and I fell in love with them. The story of Kit's abusive relationship and the emotional trauma was handled well. When she found her strength and courage and realized she is worth loving, I cheered for her. It took me a lot longer to believe it wasn't my guilt to bear. I am excited to read the rest of the series.
This is a fantastic "brother's best friend" romance.. I really loved it! It's funny and sweet... with characters and scenes that will make you laugh and cry..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book that i have read by this author. It was a sweet read. Enjoyable Finished in one sitting. Aaron was everything you need in a guy. Kitty as loved aaron fir s while. This was a best friend/step brother romance. Loved it. #kbsbloggingandreviews
I enjoyed Aaron & Kit’s story. She’s hiding from her past. He’s grappling with his present. They’re not meant to be together, so why do they struggle staying apart? It was an entertaining read. And am voluntarily leaving my review for this new author…to me.
This is the first book that i have read by this author. It was a sweet read. Enjoyable Finished in one sitting. Aaron was everything you need in a guy. Kitty as loved aaron fir s while. This was a best friend/step brother romance. Loved it. #kbsbloggingandreviews
The characters, wow, so well created and than carried throughout the story. The story if you boil it down is pretty similar to other stories. What makes this story different is the care of telling the story and storyteller. I would easily read this again.
This was a good read! It definitely was a little more heavy than the first book but I loved working through the emotions and growing with the characters. It made me think more and was a sweet romance with a lot of grit.
I really liked this book. I loved the friendship turned romance between Kit and Aaron. It was fun to see Theo and Avery a few years down the road. I thought the story was well written and heartfelt.
I loved it! I was glued to the pages and read it straight through. I only put it down when I had to go to work. I love all of this author’s work and highly recommend all of her books.
This was such a cute read. I read this book in a day (I didn't finish until after midnight!), and it's not a short book. But how well it's written and engaging the story is, I couldn't put it down and it felt like no time had passed at all! I prefer books where the guy falls first (one of my fav tropes!) but this was a girl fell first, but had fallen first back in the day, when she was the kid sister of Aaron's best friend. (I LOVE a good brother's best friend romance!) This was a nice, slow, and steady build of romantic love and I adored that they built their new relationship on friendship. It was SUCH a good read and my first book by Grace J. Croy, but I promise you it won't be my last! Easily a five star read, especially for people who love sweet and clean romance.