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In the courtroom, they’re rivals. In the bedroom, they’re . . . divorced. But could the road trip from hell lead to a second chance at love?

Aubrey Gates is the hottest divorce lawyer in Chicago, a barb-tongued stiletto with legs that go on for miles. When her cool gray eyes meet mine across the battlefield, I want her like I’ve never wanted anyone or anything. Then I remember who she the woman who brought me to my knees. The woman who destroyed my faith in relationships.

The woman I used to call . . . wife.

And she needs a favor.

It seems my ex forgot to mention the demise of our marriage to her dear old grammie, and now we’re both expected to attend her ninetieth birthday party. In Boston. And because it isn’t already awkward enough, Aubrey and I are driving there together from Chicago. That’s more than a thousand miles of tension, heartbreak, and barely concealed lust.

A little piece of paper might say we’re over, but this road trip is the true test. I intend to get my wife back . . .

And I won’t stop until “I do.”

Previously published. Please see the author's website for content warnings about this title.

242 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 7, 2019

114 people are currently reading
1168 people want to read

About the author

Kate Meader

55 books3,399 followers
Kate writes sexy contemporary, sports, and LGBTQ+ romance with strong guys and amazing women and men who match their heroes quip for quip. She's known for blending heat, humor, and heart into irresistibly romantic stories.

Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.

The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)

The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)

The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)

The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)

The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)

The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)

... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.

For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,011 reviews800 followers
March 3, 2019
I didn't think my heart was going to take it. Talk about painful and gut wrenching! I've been so curious about this couple since book 1. There was so much love between this divorced couple that I couldn't imagine what was the catalyst to their breakup.

We finally get Grant and Aubrey's story and it was so hard to read. Their love was so huge that I hated that something came between them, and then to read what that was... I just wanted them to find their way back.

The author really takes you on an emotion journey with these two. I never wanted to get to the end so badly as I did in this book and what a sweet ending it was. Well worth the turmoil to get too. It was really great to see all the couples in the epilogue. Great series!
Profile Image for Jen .
814 reviews624 followers
April 25, 2019
3.5 Stars

Because no one, not even a man as sure as Grant Roosevelt Lincoln, can truly promise forever.


Divorce attorneys Aubrey and Grant have a complicated relationship. Both have successful careers as divorce attorneys. Both work for top tier firms in the city they call home, Chicago, and both find themselves going up against each other in court on a regular basis.

Oh, and they both used to be married to one another.

Two years ago, Grant finally threw in the towel and gave up on his marriage. Aubrey and Grant seemed like the perfect opposites attract couple until a tragedy caused Aubrey to shut down emotionally. Tired of being pushed away when he felt they needed each other the most, Grant made the painful decision to let Aubrey go and try and move forward with his own life. Easier said then done. When opportunity knocks and Grant volunteers to drive Aubrey home to Boston for Thanksgiving, he realizes it’s the perfect time for the two to figure out what went wrong and maybe, finally, get his wife back.

“You don’t think we’ve talked enough? We have, Grant. We’re both divorce lawyers and we can outtalk, out-argue, out-hurt each other better than anyone. And I know what it comes back to every time—my need to keep calm and carry on versus your compulsion to fix everything, including me. Especially me, who’s basically not fixable. It was never supposed to work. We’re too different.”

Though she was the one raised with money and prestige, Aubrey knows deep down she’s nowhere near good enough for Grant. They way she handled the couple’s heartbreaking loss is proof of that. Besides, if he’d stuck around the relationship long enough, Grant would’ve eventually realized she wasn’t worth it anyway. Talk about Mommy, Daddy and any other family issue one may happen to collect over time, Aubrey has them all in spades. She didn’t have the most loving of upbringings and though she tries to mask it, that insecurity runs deep.

Grant admits he wants another chance with his ex-wife. Aubrey doesn’t see a path for a happily ever after with Grant. Sounds like a fun road trip to me!

I finished this book over a week ago and I’m still having a difficult time with a rating. Then Came You reads like a little bit of romance with a little bit of chick lit thrown in for good measure, but I’m not sure I got enough of either genre to really satisfy me. In other words, the “romance” part of the story comes from Grant being a sweet and badass ex husband still devoted to his wife which I loved but something was still missing for me. Grant was almost too good to be true, though I did enjoy spending some book time with an alpha male who wasn’t a complete tool. I understood each and every issue Aubrey had and how that contributed to the relationship, but because that ends up being the main focus of the book, it began to drag for me after a while.

I didn’t connect with this book as much as I would’ve liked but Kate Meader’s writing is still fabulous. In fact, the writing turned what could have been a slow moving story into something I still enjoyed, even if it won’t be making any of my top ten lists for the year.

ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,314 reviews13.7k followers
Read
June 2, 2019
3.5 STARS
Pain is supposed to make you stronger, some idiot said. Love, too. With Aubrey, I feel nothing but fear and weakness, desire and longing. When do I reach the part about becoming a better person?

I adore all things Kate Meader, and the second I got a look at the blurb for this book, I knew I had to read it! It sounded like it would be a great combination of feels, angst and steam, and boy was it!

Aubrey gates is a successful divorce attorney, Boston blue blood society bred yet totally down to earth sort of woman. She's sharp witted and strong...or at least on the surface. Below the sharply dressed exterior, the woman is still trying to pick up all of her shattered pieces.

Grant is a good ole' souther boy with the manners and slow drawl to match. He's Aubrey exact opposite. The boy who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks to her high society. The man that never quite belonged in her family. The sweet to her edgy. Her ex husband and the only man that's capable of finally shattering the walls that Aubrey has built around her heart in one holiday road trip to visit her family.

I loved the premise of the story, but admittedly, I just didn't feel like the root of the story was a full novel size. And while I really loved the chemistry between them, I struggled understanding the quick turnaround considering all their emotional issues. Grant tries so hard to get Aubrey to talk about their problems. And Aubrey is just as determined to leave it buried. This ultimately began to get extremely frustrating for me. Don't get me wrong, I understood her issues and they why's behind it, I really do. But I also struggled to connect to her stonewalling of a man that's as incredible as Grant.

Ultimately, the kind of issue they had between them, didn't seem like it was one that could have been resolved as quickly as it did considering their time apart, hence my saying the book could have worked better as a novella. I think some of the sexy times (and they WERE sexy) served more to keep the book going rather than drive the plot forward, if that makes sense.

Grant was absolute perfection and made the book for me. I adored him so much. And considering my gravitation towards alphaholes in books, that's saying something. He was the ultimate nice guy and I loved him for it.

I really enjoyed Then Came You and loved Grant and Aubrey's HEA, but it just didn't pack as much of a punch for me as much as Kate's book usually do. Do I think most would really enjoy this one? Absolutely! There's plenty to love about this romance. It just didn't check every box for this particularly picky reader.

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for Kate Meader.
Author 55 books3,399 followers
Read
January 2, 2023
Formerly married divorce lawyers + road trip + psychotic cat = funny, sexy, second chance romance. It's also a bit of a heartbreaker and one of my most emotionally fulfilling stories. I can't wait for you to read all about Grant and Aubrey!
Profile Image for Zoe.
2,371 reviews335 followers
May 9, 2019
Sincere, steamy, and emotional!

Then Came You is a heartwarming, second-chance romance between the intelligent, handsome Grant and the stubborn, fiery Aubrey as they discover that the heart wants who the heart wants and that some things are definitely worth the fight.

The writing is clear and genuine. The characters are determined, spirited, and troubled. And the plot told from alternating POVs is a heartfelt tale full of familial drama, loss, love, grief, friction, miscommunication, self-reflection, appreciation, acceptance, forgiveness, new beginnings, and searing romance.

Overall, Then Came You is another sweet, playful, sexy read by Meader with characters you can’t help but root for and a swoon-worthy ending that leaves you smitten, satisfied, and hoping for more.

Thank you to NetGalley, especially Random House – Loveswept, for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Linda (NOT RECEIVING NOTIFICATIONS).
1,906 reviews329 followers
March 22, 2019
2.5 stars

Then Came You was a solid chick-lit romance with appealing characters that suffered somewhat from a lack of plot. Using the first person tense and dual POV between ex-spouses, Aubrey ‘Bean’ and Grant ‘Georgia’ were the protagonists in the third story of a trilogy but I had no issues reading it as a stand-alone.

The couple had a deep history. It was not hard to see they still loved each other but we’re burdened by a personal hurdle in their marriage. The lack of communication challenged this intimacy and caused emotional vulnerability. As attorneys, they should have learned a lesson. Instead, they were divorced.

The defying moment arrived in the form of a mini road trip. It was the holidays and Aubrey was going home. She recently had an accident and Grant offered to drive.

At first, it was entertaining. However, I took exception that the romance ultimately went nowhere until the very end. Yes, there was lots of sex and some internal dialogue by both characters. But the weight or purpose of their divorce was set aside numerous times because of the lovemaking. And it was immediate with no buildup which challenged their reason for the divorce in the first place. I sincerely believe it would have been better if the author wrote about this couple in the form of a novella.

*If you like previously married couples that are given a second chance and enjoy deep thinkers with a heavier plot consider Theresa Weir’s One Fine Day, Kristan Higgins’ My One and Only, Alina Adam’s Annie's Wild Ride or Barbara Delisky’s Coast Road. But be prepared for moments of intense feelings and angst.*

Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this ARC. It was given to me for an honest review.
Profile Image for JadeC.
358 reviews68 followers
August 19, 2020
4.5 stars!

Emotional and heart-wrenching yet beautiful second chance romance
I'm no expert in marriage but I appreciated how the author handled some of the sensitive issues well. most importantly, I like how the issue was resolved. It's realistic because the challenges faced by the couple were real and unfiltered.

This book starts off with divorce attorneys Aubrey Gates and Grant Lincoln meeting in a function which later reveals that they were divorced 3 years ago. However, it's clear that both of them were still in love.

Aubrey has a dysfunctional family and success is the only option allowed in the Gates family. This resulted in Aubrey wanting perfection even in the things that she is not in control of. One fateful incident made her felt like a failure, particularly as a wife, which ultimately led to the divorce.

Grant is a wonderful man. He loved Aubrey too much that he had to let her go because she was hurting. When Aubrey has to go home for Thanksgiving AND because of her fear of planes, Grant decides to drive Aubrey there personally. During the drive, they finally address the incident 'officially' and tries to find what really went wrong with their marriage. (though it's mostly Grant that wants to know)

There's some slight triggers because from the blurb, it sounds like a light/fun read between bickering exes but it's quite heavy and serious IMO.

So, this a story of how two very different individual learning to communicate again and giving each other a second chance. I thoroughly agree with the communication part as there are always false assumptions and misunderstandings because of the lack of communication.
4.5 stars!
Profile Image for Amanda.
272 reviews63 followers
May 20, 2019
4.5 Stars!

I am on a second chance romance binge and Then Came You by Kate Meader had my heart bursting at the seams! It’s the third book in the Laws of Attraction series but it can most definitely be read as a standalone.

Talk about an emotional journey! The feels in Then Came You are insane. So much pain I felt for divorce lawyers Aubrey and Grant, because even though they were divorced from each other, you could clearly tell they still loved each other immensely.

“White hot desire ravaged his features and briefly he closed his eyes, my touch clearly too much. Owning him like this, the glory of it, thrilled through me.”

Majority of the time I was reading this, I just had to know what in the world happened between Aubrey and Grant to make them leave each other. Seriously, there’s so much attraction, friendship and just pure emotion during each encounter and I could not for the life of me figure it out.

When the meaning behind their divorce finally did surface, I was heartbroken. I felt so much for these characters in that moment that I had to take a few deep breaths. Kate Meader sure does know how to bring on all the feels and I kept thinking why have I not read anything from her before!?

Then Came You was most certainly my type of romance. Pure raw emotions that just tear you up, but with that comes humor and characters you just don’t want to let go of. I’m defiantly recommending this sweet, captivating second chance story to all of my romance lover’s out there. You will not be disappointed!

Plus, it’s also steamy as hell ;) LOVE Grant Lincoln!

**Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy for review.**
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,210 reviews74 followers
February 23, 2023
None of their closest friends even know, much less understand why Grant and Aubrey divorced, but it’s clear two years later that these two still have feelings for one another.

I can easily say I loved Grant. Raised by a single mom, his Southern charm and gentlemanly behavior fit right in with his White Knight syndrome! And he was an emotional guy, all but wearing his feeling for everyone to see. He was cute, sweet, but finally reached his emotional limits with Aubrey. I can’t say I blame the guy either. They say it takes two to tango, but with an unwilling partner, obviously you won’t get very far...

Now Aubrey. So her family definitely didn’t incite the warm fuzzies, except for her Grandmother who was a spunky little thing! It was Aubrey’s cold shoulder and unwillingness to meet Grant even halfway to deal with their loss that drove me nuts. It was an effective role reversal, because I was in Grant’s court the entire way, literally wishing Aubrey would crack the shell around her heart. Not just to let Grant, but to also see she wasn’t the only one struggling to deal.

Grant and Aubrey’s second-chance romance took me while to get in sync with, but once everything clicked, it was a heart-tugging ride. And no worries, the story isn’t all tears and sorrow. Along with some creative make-out moments, Aubrey’s cat, Cat Damon, had some highly amusing therapy sessions, leading to the eye-opening road trip these two broken souls take.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Leigh.
1,398 reviews325 followers
March 22, 2019
2.5 stars

Then Came You is the first book I have read from this author and from the description I had high hopes that I would love it. Unfortunately this one was not what I expected especially from the description of the book. While yes it was a second chance romance between a divorced couple who clearly were still in love, it was in no way funny. Yes there were a few instances that I laughed and most of that was from Libby but overall it was a tedious read. Grant was awesome, he was loving and did so much to bring his wife back after their loss. Now my issue was with Aubrey. She was so frustrating to me, she's insecure and has mommy, daddy issues. I understand her loss, believe me I understand the loss literally but her not moving on or discussing it had nothing to do with her loss but more to do with how she perceives herself. In the end they get their second chance but honestly the story never grabbed my attention to really care.

***ARC Provided by NetGalley***
Profile Image for Dali.
2,088 reviews592 followers
April 18, 2019
Kate Meader concludes her “Laws of Attraction” series with this tale of two divorce lawyers Aubrey Gates and Grant Lincoln.

When Aubrey needs a ride from Boston to Chicago – because she’s afraid of flying and can’t take her cat on a train – and huge favor to boot, who else would she turn to other than the love of her life and ex-husband? Of course the trip will be filled with angst, pain and an undying attraction which doesn’t care if a two year old piece of paper says their marriage is over but if Grant gets his way, he’ll get another saying they contrary. Can they resolve their past hurts and perhaps give love a second chance?
Don’t get me wrong. It hurts to be around my ex-wife. It hurts knowing she exists in my world but on the periphery. Yet no seeing her at all cuts deeper.

The story is full of the best Kate Meader staples – sizzling dialogue, wit, and independent heroine, a swoony hero and toe-curling sexy times. Naturally Aubrey and Grant have unresolved issues and a truck load of chemistry and the time spent together has them feeling this tenfold.

The banter, love and attraction between Aubrey and Grant was a lovely back and forth that kept me glued to their story. I found myself swooning over Grant in general but especially because of his optimism and southern sexy gentlemanly charm from the very start. I smiled through their history’s flashbacks and fanned myself each time sparks flew between them. I couldn’t help but cheer them on. Even though Aubrey was a bit of an ice-princess due to her origins and upbringing, she certainly recognized Grant’s worth.

Meader pens a sexy, heartwarming story in which the guy gets his perfect girl and weaves in loveable characters from past books, as well as a crusty cat and a hilarious dope consuming grandma who together put a big smile on my face and gave me all the feels especially with that incredibly sweet epilogue.

Then Came You is book #3 of the Laws of Attraction series by author Kate Meader. It is a standalone contemporary romance, told from both points of view with a HEA.

* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *

Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2XsgO53

My super quick review/recap:
Feels 4
Steam 5
Swoon worthy hero 5
Heroine 4
Plot 5
Overall rating 5

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Merged review:

Kate Meader concludes her “Laws of Attraction” series with this tale of two divorce lawyers Aubrey Gates and Grant Lincoln.

When Aubrey needs a ride from Boston to Chicago – because she’s afraid of flying and can’t take her cat on a train – and huge favor to boot, who else would she turn to other than the love of her life and ex-husband? Of course the trip will be filled with angst, pain and an undying attraction which doesn’t care if a two year old piece of paper says their marriage is over but if Grant gets his way, he’ll get another saying they contrary. Can they resolve their past hurts and perhaps give love a second chance?

"Don’t get me wrong. It hurts to be around my ex-wife. It hurts knowing she exists in my world but on the periphery. Yet no seeing her at all cuts deeper."

The story is full of the best Kate Meader staples – sizzling dialogue, wit, and independent heroine, a swoony hero and toe-curling sexy times. Naturally Aubrey and Grant have unresolved issues and a truck load of chemistry and the time spent together has them feeling this tenfold.

The banter, love and attraction between Aubrey and Grant was a lovely back and forth that kept me glued to their story. I found myself swooning over Grant in general but especially because of his optimism and southern sexy gentlemanly charm from the very start. I smiled through their history’s flashbacks and fanned myself each time sparks flew between them. I couldn’t help but cheer them on. Even though Aubrey was a bit of an ice-princess due to her origins and upbringing, she certainly recognized Grant’s worth.

Meader pens a sexy, heartwarming story in which the guy gets his perfect girl and weaves in loveable characters from past books, as well as a crusty cat and a hilarious dope consuming grandma who together put a big smile on my face and gave me all the feels especially with that incredibly sweet epilogue.

Then Came You is book #3 of the Laws of Attraction series by author Kate Meader. It is a standalone contemporary romance, told from both points of view with a HEA.
Profile Image for A Klue.
1,500 reviews326 followers
March 23, 2019
Kate Meader never fails to make my day, folks. With each new release, she gives me another reason to fall in love all over again, thanks to each new engaging romantic storyline and main couples I can’t help but root for. Then Came You was no exception. Having met Aubrey and Lincoln in the previous two books, I was well acquainted with the smoldering, unspoken chemistry and heated “I dare you to even look me in the eye” tension each time those two destined to reconcile knuckleheads were in the same room. What I wasn’t expecting was their painful, emotional roller coaster past and the river of relationship angst that soon engulfed them.

Grant Lincoln is a straight shooter. He may come across as a strong, silent type, southern gentleman, with broad shoulders sturdy enough to carry the weight of the world, but he also still has a secret, super soft spot for Aubrey. Considering his calm, cool, collected demeanor in the past, I was surprised yet delighted to see him become very emotional and wear his heart on his sleeve when push came to shove. Fortunately for Aubrey, he is also very patient and determined once he made up his mind to give love a second chance.

Aubrey is a fixer. She’s the go to person who can make things happen, especially in the courtroom. However, she’s walking around feeling like a shell of person. Thanks to her hot mess of a complicated family, she’s always looking over her shoulder expecting the worst. In order for Grant to win this war of words and her heart back, he’s got his work cut out for him. Knowing Aubrey even better than herself is half the battle, but it will take both of them lowering the walls around their heart and surrendering to a vulnerability and pain they’ve tried to bury for years. It will be the only way healing and forgiveness of themselves can finally begin.

I don’t know what will come next, but rest assured, this reviewer can’t wait for the next romantic journey Ms. Meader has planned for us. She remains one of my favorite all time romance authors. Whether it be in the kitchen, hockey rink, fire station, or courtroom, she knows how to serve up hot sizzly romance with real couple connections that lead to romantic HEAs.

Romance Safety Gang:

Title: Then Came You, Series: Laws of Attraction (Book 3), Author: Kate Meader, Pages: NL, stand-alone but part of a series, cameos of previous book characters, ex-spouses to back together again, both divorce lawyers, both stayed celibate during long separation, lots of relationship angst, shared silent secret heartache, HEA.

Book 1 - Down With Love (Charlotte & Max), Pages: 237
Book 2 - Illegally Yours (Trinity & Lucas), Pages: 228
Book 3 - Then Came You (Aubrey & Grant), releases 5/7/19

Other series: Hot in the Kitchen (chef backdrop), Hot in Chicago (firefighter based), Chicago Rebels (hockey theme)

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
Profile Image for Dísir.
1,742 reviews188 followers
April 6, 2019
I do have a soft spot for a second-chance story between a divorced couple (some personal conditions attached for it to be a palatable read for me) and Grant/Aubrey is what Kate Meader brings to the end (?) of this series of cynical, commitment-free divorce lawyers who ironically find their HEA. But Grant/Aubrey buck this trend in ‘Then Came You’ where a miscarriage tore them apart and after some time, find their way back to each other.

Meader can write, undoubtedly, and that’s what draws me back again and again. I’ve always enjoyed her prose, the nifty handling of characters, the emotions and plot. The feels, generally, is what good writing gives. But the past is piled on and tucked into the present, as both Grant and Aubrey recount the past in their own interior monologues—the scenes aren’t quite flashbacks per se, but the slide into years before left me somewhat disconcerted when the present suddenly disconnects from the narrative you’ve been soaking in.

But ‘Then Came You’ left me flailing in deep water, not because of the traumatic loss that both Grant and Aubrey had suffered, but how for the longest time, Grant seemed to be the only one interested in patching the holes left in the aftermath—while Aubrey merely looked at him as an afterthought, entertaining ideas that she’d be moving onto other men and saying it straight to his face.

I definitely understood and felt their loss, but it was hard to root for a couple who weren’t even on the same page when it came to reconciliation. That it took just a few days worth of holidaying to erase the years of pent-up hurt and guilt made it unbelievable.

I thought Aubrey was too paralysed to move on, stuck as she was on her inability to overcome her distant, aloof self, while Grant’s white-knight complex made him seem like the poster-child for talking things through, moving on and healing. In fact, Aubrey came across as self-absorbed to see beyond her own grief to the burden Grant was carrying on his own…essentially she shaped up to be a frustrating ‘heroine’ who never rose up to the level I expected and wanted her to be. Her simultaneous defence and castigation of her own behaviour made her bottomline argument “I don’t deserve him” the ultimate, self-defeating coward’s way out without any showing intention of fighting for them at all.

In short, a whole lot of push and pull, with so much frustration and emotion (and not all of it good) thrown in. I wish this could have been a more satisfying read—angsty but with less of a roundabout way of rehashing the same issues that come again and again and earlier character growth perhaps—but ultimately, ’Then Came You’ turned out more of a disappointment than I thought.

*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
Profile Image for Lindsey  Domokur.
1,866 reviews124 followers
April 11, 2022
4.5 stars. I loved this book. I really love marriage reconciliation books and this one I stumbled upon by accident. Grant and Aubrey were in the first book of the series and I was so interested about their story, I skipped right to their book after the first one.
The pain and love they both felt was palpable. They had a tragedy happen while married and neither of them could get past the pain and grief, each believing it was their fault. Aubrey's family was pretty messed up so she always thought not talking through her pain was the right way to get through it. She would just get through it by pretending it didn't happen, so when Grant wanted to talk about it, she pushed him away.
The love he felt for her, gah, this is what love is supposed to be like. I rounded up just because I loved him so much and he was a great guy. I had actual tears listening to this one.
Profile Image for Under the Covers Book Blog.
2,840 reviews1,343 followers
May 31, 2019



I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


When tragedy hits the lives of a married couple, it can bring so much grief that marriages are put to a test.  I’ve seen it in real life and it's as true in Grant and Aubrey’s story. Unfortunately, not all marriages can rise from such a heavy burden.  In Then Came You, Kate Meader manages to put real life troubles in Grant and Aubrey’s story for us to witness. The tragedy or the real reason for the divorce is not mentioned in the blurb and so, I won’t mention the details, but the issue at hand is deeper than what its explained.  It’s true, Grant and Aubrey will have to face Aubrey’s grandmother and to tell her the truth, but there’s more there than meets the eye. Perhaps a long overdue conversation to discuss loss or grief, past or current feelings, and maybe just a chance to get to know each other again.  Issues most married couples need to face but often neglect. Meader did a great job portraying these issues no matter how petty or deep the issues were.   She made it easy to look at these issues from an outside point of view. I Rooted for Grant and Aubrey from the start. I knew they had something heavy weighing on them and I needed to see them overcome them.  Meader did a great job leading them to it. She infused their story with heartfelt drama, humor, romance, and hope. I enjoyed every bit of it.

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Angela❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
2,354 reviews14 followers
February 27, 2019
This is the third book in the series and am assuming the last one in it since Grant was the last guy in this trio's group. I hope you have started from the beginning because past characters make appearances and are mentioned a couple of times. So we have been waiting on Grant and Aubrey's story since we were teased with it in Max' s and Charlie's book and then again in Lucas. I have to say that it wasn't what I was expecting, not that I didn't enjoy it but I guess I thought that I would have been rooting for them and honestly I didn't like Aubrey and wanted Grant to meet someone who was worthy of him. I get that she didn't feel loved but it was time for her to either get help and move on. Grant was a sweetheart and he loved her and he was hurting too the difference was that he actually wanted them to get help and she didn't and here she is a tough woman just not when she needed to be. I loved her grandmother and I even liked how everything worked out with her mom. The book was a sad story and eventually I am glad that everything worked out because I truly truly wanted Grant to be happy.

Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Kate R.
1,175 reviews42 followers
May 3, 2019
This is the third and last book in the Laws of Attraction series, and what a fun series this was! This one is still considered a standalone though. It was much more emotional than I expected. The story focuses on Aubrey and Grant. We met them in the first book and I was immediately intrigued with what exactly had transpired between them. Well, we get our answers in this book. While I do understand what would make them drift apart, I feel like it was just a miscommunication between the two that escalated into divorce, when it really could have been resolved quite easily. They were pretty much opposites, but I loved their individual characters too. I really loved these two together and was rooting for them throughout the whole book! We also get to see all of our favorite characters from previous books. And that epilogue was amazing! This was the perfect ending to a great series. Highly recommend this entire series!

* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Profile Image for Heather 123.
954 reviews7 followers
May 30, 2019
Eh...so many mixed feelings about this book.

First, I felt like we needed more than just the loss to be the cause of everything (and I mean everything) in this book. As someone who has been in Aubrey's shoes, more than once, I completely understand how absolutely devastating a loss like that can be. And I completely understand that people grieve in different ways, so I'm not one to judge. I just felt like everything revolved around that loss.

Second, the entire book was like a pity party for Aubrey. I found her to be incredibly selfish; it was almost as if Grant was an after thought.

** ARC received from Netgalley **
Profile Image for Amy.
1,759 reviews174 followers
July 7, 2019
I adore Kate Meader and she never fails to wow me. I loved to finally get the story of Aubrey and Grant and I adore a second chance love story. This one completely worked for me. I love this friend group and getting to revisit them is one of my favorite things. There is a bit of angst in this one but I didn't find it to be overwrought. This was a solid great read and I highly recommend this series and this author! She always delivers an amazing story!

**Thank you to the publisher for providing a copy for an honest review.**
Profile Image for Becca.
2,003 reviews27 followers
May 14, 2019
This book was such an emotional read and one that I could totally relate to.

I loved the flirty banter between Grant and Aubrey. Once married and now divorced - the two embark on a trip that turns into therapy for the two. They still love each other, but the reason for the split (which you'll have to read to find out) is heart wrenching and is so relevant to many couples. Some survive and many don't.

Such a great read. Loved it!
Profile Image for Samantha (WLABB).
4,264 reviews278 followers
May 6, 2019
After seven years, Aubrey and Grant called it quits, but the source of their divorce was still one of the best kept secrets, and it seemed even the fact that they WERE divorced was a bit of a secret. In an attempt avoid upsetting her grandmother, Grant agreed to accompany Aubrey to her birthday celebration, but little did Aubrey know, he had ulterior motives. He was going to win her back!

Meader took me on a road trip that was fun, sweet, sexy, and emotional, and I LOVED every second of it. From when I first met Grant and Aubrey, I was curious as to what happened to this once golden couple, and Meader did a great job showing me their history. It was beautiful watching these two from their first law school meeting to where they fell in love. BUT, it was painful having to see it all fall apart.

Not to worry, because in-between all the flashbacks was a lot of fabulous banter and road trip shenanigans. But, it wasn't just the verbal sparring that won my heart. I think I got tears in my eyes every time Grant put his heart out there. He was so determined to work though what broke them, and it all just tugged at my heartstrings. It was also wonderful seeing Aubrey come to terms with so many things from her past. I found myself often times very touched by what transpired in the book, and loved how Meader alternated that with more humorous moments.

Getting to know Grant and Aubrey better was quite a treat as well. Both had rather compelling backstories, which were laced with heartbreak, but also were what made them stronger, especially in Aubrey's case. Additionaly, we got to meet and spend time with their families, which was eye-opening, in the case of Aubrey's family, and wonderful, in the case of Grant's family.

I can always depend on Meader to wrap up a series nicely, and the final chapter of this book was a thing of beauty. There were tears and sniffles, because I was SO HAPPY!

Overall: It was pleasure taking this healing road trip with Grant and Aubrey.

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Ayekah.
1,123 reviews
April 22, 2019
Intense and emotional read, ride along with Aubrey and Lincoln as they make the trip of their lives.
Kate Meader really knocked me for an emotional loop with this incredible story. Aubrey (Bean) and Grant Lincoln, met in college, onto law school, married and now divorced for about a year. Both still practice and have mutual friends and often sit on opposite sides of the courtroom. They make an amazing couple, and couldn't be more different. Aubrey is from a snobby, upper crust, old money family from Boston and Lincoln raised in Georgia by his loving, single mother, the two of them on their own. Made him the better man I can say with all certainty and you'll see that throughout the book. His Mom remarries later in life and Lincoln now has a younger sister as well.

When a life changing event in their marriage causes Aubrey to withdraw from Grant and sink into the depths below the pit of despair, and after months of trying, Grant can no longer cope with things. He's trying to manage his own emotions and Aubrey continues to shut him out. So he leaves and their subsequent divorce. Bean feels he's better off. Neither have gotten over the other, but she continually denies her own grief and loss.

This story takes off when Aubrey who is afraid to fly is faced with going home for her Grandmother's big birthday and the Thanksgiving holidays. She has no ride and can't take their psycho cat on the train, Grant reminds her. His solution is to offer to drive her their and act as a much needed buffer between her and her mother in particular. Grandma is a peach and has always been good to both of them. Aubrey's mother is one cold blitch that no one really likes. Aubrey has always been a less than in that household which we learn as the story unfolds. She also spills to Grant that she hasn't told her family they are divorced yet, especially Grandma. Afraid to be seen as yet another failure. Grant has half a plan and if spending a few days in a car with Bean and the cat will help him, he's onboard. Let the charades begin!

Aubrey wins the best avoidance of the year award from me, and Grant her perfect match! I loved the banter between these two, Grant's firm, unapologetic approach with Bean and also with her family.
The two finally relax somewhere between Chicago and Boston, couple nights in a motel with the cat. Aubrey still at odds with telling her Grandma after her big birthday bash that she and Grant are no longer together. Aubrey is tense once they arrive, Grant has the best way to smooth Bean's ruffled feathers. Not the first time he's seen her treated like she doesn't belong and doesn't measure up and she's trying to keep up pretenses and it's getting harder. Grant continues to nudge Bean in the direction he desires for them both. Things come to a head one night and please pass the tissue.
Aubrey is faced with a choice. And did I ever hold my breath did see what she would do.

Kate has written two very real to life characters, in very real to life circumstances and the messy outcome of what happens when unresolved, unaddressed grief is tossed into the mix between two people who clearly love each other but can no longer co exist in that never-ending emotional shut down. I loved these two and they were perfect together, their easy banter and clearly they love and adore each other. I'd give this more than 5 stars if it were up to me. It's an absolute must read, it's one of those books that anyone can read regardless if they've been through the same or similar circumstances.

Grateful to Kate for writing this book that deals with tough issues that seem to go untouched by other writers. Thank you Kate, well done. So beautifully done.

Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews40 followers
May 7, 2019
Loved, loved, loved! Grant and Aubrey's story hit all the emotional buttons. For these two high powered attorneys not only is divorce their profession but it's what they are personally. They hold no punches in the courtroom but in private communication is a real problem. It's clear that the fire between them still burns brightly but they have no idea how to get back what they once had. I thought the author did a great job of keeping their story light and fun while dealing with some pretty heavy baggage from their past. A hilarious road trip, a meddling grandmother, and a crazy cat is enough to drive these two together and force them to deal with each other. You will want to read this one to see exactly how things work out. I definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Carissa.
3,379 reviews91 followers
April 24, 2019
I was so excited to read this just from the blurb alone! I loved the beginning opening banter between the two. I will say this story was very predictable for me. I feel for this couple though. It was still a bit different from something I haven't read before. I'm glad it ended the way it did.

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for Rowena.
716 reviews31 followers
May 23, 2019
This book was just as emotional and angsty as I was expecting. It was hard to read at times because of all of the emotions but I'm glad that I read it because Grant and Aubrey were just as great together as I hoped they'd be. Good stuff, I'm so glad to have completed this series.
Profile Image for Lori.
355 reviews2 followers
April 24, 2019
Aubrey and Grant were the power couple that everyone envied and wanted to be, beautiful and handsome, perfect together, and happily married, until they weren’t. Then Came You is the third book in the Laws of Attraction Series written by Kate Meader. I have read the first book in this series and liked it very much, but somehow I missed the second book. However, as luck would have it, I have had the pleasure to read the third book. This book was a quick read, well written and kept me interested with some well-placed surprises. The characters are well developed, some I liked and others not so much.

Then Came You is a second chance romance with a lot of family drama, sexual tension, heartache, and love with a bit of comedy thrown in. Grant and Aubrey suffered a terrible loss during their marriage that they were unable to work through. Now, two years later, divorced, they are still fighting the attraction they have for each other.

Let us start with Grant, whom I love. Grant Roosevelt Lincoln or as Aubry called him, Georgia, grew up poor, raised by a teenage single mom who’s love and devotion turned him into a true southern gentleman. Grant is not just good-looking and smart, but he is kindhearted, reliable, strong and loving. Aubrey is a whole different story; she grew up in the upper crust of Boston society. She is closed off, distant, self-absorbed, and at the same time insecure. There were times I felt like taking Aubry by the shoulders and shaking her and saying wake the cluck up, open your eyes; you have a fantastic guy standing right in front of you. She not only has daddy issues, but mommy issues too, and ouch, they have messed her up. So, in a way I felt sorry for her, she didn't know how to love Grant. I would be amiss if I did not mention Aubrey’s grandmother Libby, she was somewhat of a quirky grand lady that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Reading Grant and Aubrey’s journey was a real romantic rollercoaster of a ride. So many beautiful parts and other parts just tore me apart. If you love second chance romances, this is a good one, and you won’t want to miss it. These books can be read independently of one another, but I can honestly say they are all worth reading and I do plan to go back and read the second book in this series. Happy Reading!

***I kindly received this galley by way of NetGalley/publisher/author. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. I have voluntarily read this book, and this review is my honest opinion .***

Merged review:

Aubrey and Grant were the power couple that everyone envied and wanted to be, beautiful and handsome, perfect together, and happily married, until they weren’t. Then Came You is the third book in the Laws of Attraction Series written by Kate Meader. I have read the first book in this series and liked it very much, but somehow I missed the second book. However, as luck would have it, I have had the pleasure to read the third book. This book was a quick read, well written and kept me interested with some well-placed surprises. The characters are well developed, some I liked and others not so much.

Then Came You is a second chance romance with a lot of family drama, sexual tension, heartache, and love with a bit of comedy thrown in. Grant and Aubrey suffered a terrible loss during their marriage that they were unable to work through. Now, two years later, divorced, they are still fighting the attraction they have for each other.

Let us start with Grant, whom I love. Grant Roosevelt Lincoln or as Aubry called him, Georgia, grew up poor, raised by a teenage single mom who’s love and devotion turned him into a true southern gentleman. Grant is not just good-looking and smart, but he is kindhearted, reliable, strong and loving. Aubrey is a whole different story; she grew up in the upper crust of Boston society. She is closed off, distant, self-absorbed, and at the same time insecure. There were times I felt like taking Aubry by the shoulders and shaking her and saying wake the cluck up, open your eyes; you have a fantastic guy standing right in front of you. She not only has daddy issues, but mommy issues too, and ouch, they have messed her up. So, in a way I felt sorry for her, she didn't know how to love Grant. I would be amiss if I did not mention Aubrey’s grandmother Libby, she was somewhat of a quirky grand lady that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Reading Grant and Aubrey’s journey was a real romantic rollercoaster of a ride. So many beautiful parts and other parts just tore me apart. If you love second chance romances, this is a good one, and you won’t want to miss it. These books can be read independently of one another, but I can honestly say they are all worth reading and I do plan to go back and read the second book in this series. Happy Reading!

***I kindly received this galley by way of NetGalley/publisher/author. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. I have voluntarily read this book, and this review is my honest opinion .***
Profile Image for Kim.
378 reviews10 followers
May 8, 2019
A couple of pages in I knew this was going to be the epic read that the series had been building up to. I wanted to devour it whole, yet at the same time make it last forever to stave off The End. Then Came You lived up to everything I’d imagined and all I’d longed for. It’s Kate Meader at her finest.

What starts out as a simple favor turns into so much more. Kate Meader brings Aubrey and Grant to life in ways she’d only hinted at in books one and two. She lays bare their souls on an emotional journey to overcome the pain of the past. They expose the excruciating circumstances that tore them apart, and face truths about themselves and each other that they had avoided for far too long. It’s gripping and raw, and I felt their every emotion as if they were my own.

While relationships are dissected, angry words hurled, and tears shed, there’s also much laughter, the bonds of close friendship, and Lawd-have-merceh-is-it-hot-in-here sexxy times. After all, this is a Kate Meader story, and she leaves it all on the page, forcing you through a gamut of emotions. Throughout, I laughed; I cried; and I burned.

Then Came You is by far my favorite Laws of Attraction novel. It may well be my favorite Kate Meader novel overall. So many are 5-star reads it’s hard to choose number one. If you haven’t read Kate or this series, I urge you to treat yourself.

While I have this book on preorder, I was given an advance copy by the publisher via NetGalley, and chose to write a review.
Profile Image for Kristina Birch.
775 reviews26 followers
May 8, 2019
Five Stars Isn’t Enough!

Whoa! Then Came You is Kate Meader on another level. All of the humor, snark, and family fun (read drama) that we’ve come to know and love from Meader is front and center but there’s also a layer of emotional depth that is so raw, moving, and healing that I literally couldn’t put the book down. I’m a slow reader, me being fast is finishing a book in 24 hours, but I finished this book in less than six! It was that damn good!

Grant and Aubrey have been intriguing me since Down with Love and I knew their book would be good...but watching them repair their love while simultaneously watching them build it through flashbacks was absolute perfection!

Libby, Shelley, and Cat Damon are some of my new favorite characters...and that epilogue! Talk about finishing a series with a love letter to the character and readers! *sigh*

Can you tell I loved this one! Between Lauren Layne’s Huge Deal and Then Came You, I now have an extremely high bar for series ending books!!!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
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