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Navarro Triplets #1
Not According to Plan
For one night of my life, I dared to do something reckless.
My birthday. A bar. Karaoke. And a man so hot he could melt the sun.
Sparks flew. Lust took over.
For one night of my life, I felt alive.
Then I was back to my “boring” life. Career-driven. Goal-oriented. Always planning ahead.
But nothing could have prepared me for the positive pregnancy test. We weren’t that reckless.
There goes my “boring” life. And what happens when I tell the father?
My birthday. A bar. Karaoke. And a man so hot he could melt the sun.
Sparks flew. Lust took over.
For one night of my life, I felt alive.
Then I was back to my “boring” life. Career-driven. Goal-oriented. Always planning ahead.
But nothing could have prepared me for the positive pregnancy test. We weren’t that reckless.
There goes my “boring” life. And what happens when I tell the father?
ebook
Published March 23, 2020
About the author
A.M. Madden
40 books2,467 followersA USA Today bestselling, award-winning author, A. M. Madden is also a Jersey girl whose addiction to romance started at twelve after reading Judy Blume’s Forever.
As a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic, she truly believes that true love knows no bounds.
In her books, she aspires to write fun, sexy, realistic love stories that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. She creates realistic characters and believes there’s no better compliment than when readers feel they know the characters personally.
When not writing, she’s busy being a wife to her soul mate, and a mother to two boys who she believes are the most handsome men on earth. She loves to cook, hates to bake, and dreams about living at the beach someday.
AWARDS:
2016 eLit Gold Medalist - Best Romance Ebook - The Shortstop
2016 IPPY Silver Medalist - Best Romance Ebook - The Shortstop
2018 Book Excellence Finalist - Finding Mr. Wrong (co-written with Joanne Schwehm).
2019 Book Excellence Finalist - Scoring Mr. Romeo (co-written with Joanne Schwehm).
Sign up for A. M. Madden’s newsletter at www.ammadden.com to get up-to-date information on new releases, cover reveals, and exclusive excerpts.
website - www.ammadden.com
Facebook - A.M. Madden, Author
Twitter - @ammadden1
Instagram - ammadden1
Email - am.madden@aol.com
A.M. Madden is represented by Stephanie Phillips / SBR Media Agency.
Copyright © A.M. Madden, Author, All rights reserved.
A.M. Madden is a Goodreads Author and can be contacted on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or at am.madden@aol.com
As a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic, she truly believes that true love knows no bounds.
In her books, she aspires to write fun, sexy, realistic love stories that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. She creates realistic characters and believes there’s no better compliment than when readers feel they know the characters personally.
When not writing, she’s busy being a wife to her soul mate, and a mother to two boys who she believes are the most handsome men on earth. She loves to cook, hates to bake, and dreams about living at the beach someday.
AWARDS:
2016 eLit Gold Medalist - Best Romance Ebook - The Shortstop
2016 IPPY Silver Medalist - Best Romance Ebook - The Shortstop
2018 Book Excellence Finalist - Finding Mr. Wrong (co-written with Joanne Schwehm).
2019 Book Excellence Finalist - Scoring Mr. Romeo (co-written with Joanne Schwehm).
Sign up for A. M. Madden’s newsletter at www.ammadden.com to get up-to-date information on new releases, cover reveals, and exclusive excerpts.
website - www.ammadden.com
Facebook - A.M. Madden, Author
Twitter - @ammadden1
Instagram - ammadden1
Email - am.madden@aol.com
A.M. Madden is represented by Stephanie Phillips / SBR Media Agency.
Copyright © A.M. Madden, Author, All rights reserved.
A.M. Madden is a Goodreads Author and can be contacted on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or at am.madden@aol.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
March 23, 2020
Mid way through chapter 2, I stopped and went back and re-read the authors blurb. Then I read it again. The author left out a significant part of the story in the blurb. I was pretty mad at this point, so I just skimmed the rest of the book. I don't find the H having a baby with both the h AND a friend he regularly screwed delivering 4 months apart really romantic. Nonetheless, both woman live in different states. He of course chooses to live in the state of the "friend", manages to miss the birth of both babies, and the h eventually leaves her job and family to move where he and the "friend " live. I purchased the book think it was going to be a cute story and feel like I got a bait and switch. It might be a great book if that's your cup of tea but I wouldn't have read nor purchased had a known the rest of the plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2020
I don't care for either of these characters.
May 5, 2022
Not According to Plan
New to me author --> A.M. Madden.
First things first, the pregnant woman on the cover with the title “Not According To Plan” is a huge draw for me. I am a sucker for any unplanned pregnancy and/or secret baby tropes. They are the song to my happy dance, and I can’t get enough! The quote, “She never expected to be expecting,” had me jumping with delight.
I know. I know. It’s messed up when it happens in real life, but I can’t get enough unexpected pregnancy in my fictional romance. The reactions from the H(s) when they find out they're either going to be a father or already are one, is something I look forward to with toe curling eagerness.
New to me author --> A.M. Madden.
First things first, the pregnant woman on the cover with the title “Not According To Plan” is a huge draw for me. I am a sucker for any unplanned pregnancy and/or secret baby tropes. They are the song to my happy dance, and I can’t get enough! The quote, “She never expected to be expecting,” had me jumping with delight.
I know. I know. It’s messed up when it happens in real life, but I can’t get enough unexpected pregnancy in my fictional romance. The reactions from the H(s) when they find out they're either going to be a father or already are one, is something I look forward to with toe curling eagerness.
March 24, 2020
Seriously 😒 can we get a book that just is worth reading already. 2 pregnant women at the same time for the guy. Noooo like come on.
Btw those 1 stars or lower are the ones you need to read
For the truth of a book.
Btw those 1 stars or lower are the ones you need to read
For the truth of a book.
Shelved as 'nope-nope-nope'
March 24, 2020Hero is a irresponsible idiot, why would I want to read about him getting his cake and eating it too? 🙄
February 27, 2020
"I love you, Jade. With each kiss, each touch, and each look, you managed to turn my feelings into a living, breathing thing."
Even though the story had a nice flow and the writing was simple and straightforward, I didn't enjoy "Not According to Plan" as much as I thought I would. Instead of getting a cute story about Jade and Max falling in love while having to deal with a surprise pregnancy, I got a long distance relationship plot where the H only seemed to care about his problems.
Max got two woman pregnant in less than five months and even though he was only friends with Tracey (the first women he got pregnant), I felt like Jade (h) was always Max’s second option. After that, I really couldn’t connect with the characters and the plot.
Max spent most of the book in Miami while Jade was in NYC going through a bunch of family and professional problems. When she wanted to talk about the fact that he wanted to live in Miami and she wanted to stay in NYC, his only answer was “things will work out, don’t worry.” I mean, what? If you’re going to have a child with someone, the least you can do is confront your problems like an adult.
Another thing that upset me was that Max always talked about how much he loved Jade, but he NEVER thought about staying in NYC for her and their kid. Jade was the one who had to give everything up while nothing changed for him. Sorry, but that is just not my thing.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.*
Even though the story had a nice flow and the writing was simple and straightforward, I didn't enjoy "Not According to Plan" as much as I thought I would. Instead of getting a cute story about Jade and Max falling in love while having to deal with a surprise pregnancy, I got a long distance relationship plot where the H only seemed to care about his problems.
Max got two woman pregnant in less than five months and even though he was only friends with Tracey (the first women he got pregnant), I felt like Jade (h) was always Max’s second option. After that, I really couldn’t connect with the characters and the plot.
Max spent most of the book in Miami while Jade was in NYC going through a bunch of family and professional problems. When she wanted to talk about the fact that he wanted to live in Miami and she wanted to stay in NYC, his only answer was “things will work out, don’t worry.” I mean, what? If you’re going to have a child with someone, the least you can do is confront your problems like an adult.
Another thing that upset me was that Max always talked about how much he loved Jade, but he NEVER thought about staying in NYC for her and their kid. Jade was the one who had to give everything up while nothing changed for him. Sorry, but that is just not my thing.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.*
March 26, 2020
Man, just when you think you have your life figured out, Fate steps in to remind you that you’re really not the one in charge!
Which is exactly what happened to Jade and Max. And their little surprise bundle of joy arriving in approximately nine months. A one-night stand turned into at least eighteen years of co-parenting... or could they actually make their initial connection spark into something more. Something real. Something permanent.
Not According to Plan is a fun, sweet, sexy romance that’s also infuriating, crazy, annoying, and heartbreaking. Yeah, I know—the emotions run strong through out the whole book!
I loved the instant connection between Jade and Max. Loved how he brought her out of her shell and how she finally “lived a little” if only for one night! Loved how they really are perfect for each other.
And then I hated Jade and Max. Hated their inability to open their hearts and share their feelings. Hated their lack of communication over the big things, that their insecurities got the best of them at times.
And then I loved them again. That they finally got over themselves. And out of their own way and finally gave in to all their feelings. And that ultimately love won. ~ Missy, 4 stars
Which is exactly what happened to Jade and Max. And their little surprise bundle of joy arriving in approximately nine months. A one-night stand turned into at least eighteen years of co-parenting... or could they actually make their initial connection spark into something more. Something real. Something permanent.
Not According to Plan is a fun, sweet, sexy romance that’s also infuriating, crazy, annoying, and heartbreaking. Yeah, I know—the emotions run strong through out the whole book!
I loved the instant connection between Jade and Max. Loved how he brought her out of her shell and how she finally “lived a little” if only for one night! Loved how they really are perfect for each other.
And then I hated Jade and Max. Hated their inability to open their hearts and share their feelings. Hated their lack of communication over the big things, that their insecurities got the best of them at times.
And then I loved them again. That they finally got over themselves. And out of their own way and finally gave in to all their feelings. And that ultimately love won. ~ Missy, 4 stars
March 4, 2020
3.25 stars
This story features a unique twist on the unexpected pregnancy trope.
Jade Easton lives a very boring life. However, that all changes one night when her friend encourages her to sign up for Kismet Karaoke. And with some finagling by the event host, Brad, she is paired up with his brother, Max Navarro. That's when the magic happens!
That magic carries from the stage to the bedroom. But that night, intended to be just a one-night stand, changes dramatically with one faulty condom.
Jade is career focused, chasing a promotion for junior partner in her law firm in New York.
Max is opening a new gym in Miami and has another complicating matter which I won't divulge other than to say I laughed my ass off when it is revealed.
Neither has room for the other in their life right now. So, the one night suited them.
Until it didn't.
Despite the situation, I liked how both characters handled the news, and thought Max really tried hard to do the right thing. It was clear that the passion between them wasn't random, and that the potential for more was there.
I really like the bones of the story but felt the execution could be improved. I felt the transitions were rushed, often within a chapter. This is an ARC, so it is possible edits are still in progress. With that said, the potential for this story is there. I enjoyed it overall and found is to be a lighter read, which was unusual given the trope.
*An ARC was received via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
This story features a unique twist on the unexpected pregnancy trope.
Jade Easton lives a very boring life. However, that all changes one night when her friend encourages her to sign up for Kismet Karaoke. And with some finagling by the event host, Brad, she is paired up with his brother, Max Navarro. That's when the magic happens!
That magic carries from the stage to the bedroom. But that night, intended to be just a one-night stand, changes dramatically with one faulty condom.
Jade is career focused, chasing a promotion for junior partner in her law firm in New York.
Max is opening a new gym in Miami and has another complicating matter which I won't divulge other than to say I laughed my ass off when it is revealed.
Neither has room for the other in their life right now. So, the one night suited them.
Until it didn't.
Despite the situation, I liked how both characters handled the news, and thought Max really tried hard to do the right thing. It was clear that the passion between them wasn't random, and that the potential for more was there.
I really like the bones of the story but felt the execution could be improved. I felt the transitions were rushed, often within a chapter. This is an ARC, so it is possible edits are still in progress. With that said, the potential for this story is there. I enjoyed it overall and found is to be a lighter read, which was unusual given the trope.
*An ARC was received via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
March 3, 2020
I was so sure I was going to love 'Not According To Plan' because one of my favorite tropes is an unexpected pregnancy, and I am a fan of this authors work. I was wrong, so wrong. I was not a fan of this story. The story-line was so far fetched. I thought as I continued to flip the pages that things would get better, but I feel as if they only got worse. In the beginning I did feel the chemistry, but as the story was developing I feel like the chemistry was just gone. At one point I thought to myself, ' Why the hell are they even fighting for a relationship?" I get the plot revolved around the hero's location being in two different places, but I feel like it took over the whole entire story. I lost their connection, and that in itself is horrifying. I thought 'Not According To Plan' was going to be a story filled with so much depth. Nope. I thought I would be able to get a feel of the main characters feelings outside of what they were saying. Nope. I get the twist on the trope, I do, and I give this author an A for originality, but I feel like this author overshadowed what this story was truly meant to be, and that makes me sad. I also was not a fan of everyone making decisions for the heroine. I was not a fan of the heroines father either, I feel like there should have been more about the situation with him. I would have also liked to seen a progression of the relationship between Tracey and Jade. I found it odd that they all seemed chummy, when they did meet that once. Especially considering the circumstances.
The one thing I did like? Amy!! I loved her and her personality. She was the best thing about this book. I wish I could give more likable instances but in the case I can't. Hopefully this authors next release is better.
~ Ashley
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The one thing I did like? Amy!! I loved her and her personality. She was the best thing about this book. I wish I could give more likable instances but in the case I can't. Hopefully this authors next release is better.
~ Ashley
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April 25, 2023
Not According To Plan is centred upon Jade Easton, a career focused junior partner at her law firm in New York, and Max Navarro, who is opening a gym in Miami and dealing with other complicated situations. Both aren't looking for anything romantic but life has other plans for them both. Shenanigans occurs when Jade and Max meet unexpectedly at a Kismet Karaoke, as the host of the event pairs them up together, and that's when fun and adventure shared on the stage transforms quickly to the bedroom. However, what was supposed to be a one-night stand changes both of their lives all thanks to one faulty condom.
Despite the situation each characters are put into, they both seem to handle the news well and proceeded to try to do the right thing. Jade is a strong heroine, she knows what she wants and even when the unexpected occurs, she continues to perserver for her dreams and doesn't let anything derail her from them. She has a good perspective on what she wants and adapts quickly to changes. Max finds himself in a predicament he never expected to be in. Though he never faltered and remained, generally, calm and determined as well as committed, I found myself disliking him. I think the predicament he is even left me feeling a little let down on the overall romantic aspect. Nonetheless, the chemistry between Jade and Max is apparent right from the start and showed the potential the two had as a couple.
I adored reading about the side characters, Amy and Brad were hilarious, and how they brought out different sides of the protagonists. I thought the concept of the story was unique but the way it was carried out could have been improved as the transitions often felt rushed. There is also the fact that Max's circumstances before Jade was shocking and left me a little irked.
Overall, Not According To Plan is not typically a book I would pick up but it was a fast and light read.
eARC was kindly provided by the publisher and Rockstar Book Tour in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
For this review and more, check out:
Blog | Instagram | Wattpad
Despite the situation each characters are put into, they both seem to handle the news well and proceeded to try to do the right thing. Jade is a strong heroine, she knows what she wants and even when the unexpected occurs, she continues to perserver for her dreams and doesn't let anything derail her from them. She has a good perspective on what she wants and adapts quickly to changes. Max finds himself in a predicament he never expected to be in. Though he never faltered and remained, generally, calm and determined as well as committed, I found myself disliking him. I think the predicament he is even left me feeling a little let down on the overall romantic aspect. Nonetheless, the chemistry between Jade and Max is apparent right from the start and showed the potential the two had as a couple.
I adored reading about the side characters, Amy and Brad were hilarious, and how they brought out different sides of the protagonists. I thought the concept of the story was unique but the way it was carried out could have been improved as the transitions often felt rushed. There is also the fact that Max's circumstances before Jade was shocking and left me a little irked.
Overall, Not According To Plan is not typically a book I would pick up but it was a fast and light read.
eARC was kindly provided by the publisher and Rockstar Book Tour in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
For this review and more, check out:
Blog | Instagram | Wattpad
March 23, 2020
I love this story!!
This one is a definite page-turner. I couldn't stop reading. I kept thinking "how is this ever going to work" " there's just no way" ..."If this book doesn't give me an HAE" AHHH...SOOOO SOOO GOOD!!
I love the characters. Max and Jade have a passionate connection, the best friend Amy is batsh!t crazy and one of Max's brother is hysterical. (Max is a set of identical triplets ❤😍)
Not According to Plan is captivating with its unconventional family dynamics, the struggles of real life, the laugh out loud humor and the sensual sexiness. HOT!!
I will admit that unexpected pregnancy is not my usual trope but I can see why it is so addicting. It's great.
This love story may be complicated but it is sweet and romantic. I got lost in it and that is a great read for me. Hoping we get more of the Navarro brothers.
This one is a definite page-turner. I couldn't stop reading. I kept thinking "how is this ever going to work" " there's just no way" ..."If this book doesn't give me an HAE" AHHH...SOOOO SOOO GOOD!!
I love the characters. Max and Jade have a passionate connection, the best friend Amy is batsh!t crazy and one of Max's brother is hysterical. (Max is a set of identical triplets ❤😍)
Not According to Plan is captivating with its unconventional family dynamics, the struggles of real life, the laugh out loud humor and the sensual sexiness. HOT!!
I will admit that unexpected pregnancy is not my usual trope but I can see why it is so addicting. It's great.
This love story may be complicated but it is sweet and romantic. I got lost in it and that is a great read for me. Hoping we get more of the Navarro brothers.
May 22, 2021
Thank goodness I saw the most popular review on Amazon before I clicked this. The blurb is totally misleading, the Hero has two pregnant women at the same time, and they spend much of the story apart, with the hero choosing to be where the other pregnant woman ( not the heroine) is. Another second best story. Why anyone would think this is somehow romantic is beyond me. I love unexpected pregnancy stories and thought I would love this. Check out the other 1 and 2 star reviews for more details.
March 24, 2020
3 Whoops Stars
* * * Spoiler Free
This had the beginning of that cute oops baby story...Yet things kinda took a Whoops of major proportions. This tale is a journey between two people who are attracted, now involved because of a baby and have serious decisions to make.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free
This had the beginning of that cute oops baby story...Yet things kinda took a Whoops of major proportions. This tale is a journey between two people who are attracted, now involved because of a baby and have serious decisions to make.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
March 24, 2020
If you want your heart to burst with joy, then Not According To Plan will do just that! I laughed and swooned! A.M. Madden over powered my heart with passion and love!! Brilliantly written!! Phenomenal story!!!
February 19, 2020
Max isn't really a secret keeper, "confession… I stole your panties last weekend. Forgot I did until I put on my jeans and found them in my pocket." I liked this book, I liked Max.
June 9, 2023
oh my, so many things happening all at once
Jade is an attorney she goes on a one night stand with Max Navarro a gym owner and gets knocked up
But plot twist he has also knocked up his friend Tracy who is now engaged to another man. AHH I know it sucks anyways They fall in love get married and start a family together.
I am not gonna list out all the things happening in this book because I have to leave some room for the next time I read this book. yeah, that's right this book made it to the re-read bunch. Max is one of the identical triplets whose stories come in the next two books.
I loved the story even though I felt like it was overly complicated at times I mean there are pages in this book that needs some editing. Max has a baby girl Mia with Tracy and a baby boy Micheal with Jade.
she tries a lot to drift apart from him thinking that he couldn't commit to being with her as half of his life is settled in another state .he tries to make her understand that she is continuing on a job that doesn't value her but he couldn't get it across her without hurting her. but they eventually pass all the problems on their way.
I must confess that I am writing this review after finishing the three books in a stretch, It was so addicting guys I am so giddy I think it's best I reveal the extended epilogue here. Max and Jade have four kids Micheal, two girls and a boy ten years after their initial meeting. Max opened another gym in California,he wants more kids but Jade is done 🤣😂.They are happy.
Jade is an attorney she goes on a one night stand with Max Navarro a gym owner and gets knocked up
But plot twist he has also knocked up his friend Tracy who is now engaged to another man. AHH I know it sucks anyways They fall in love get married and start a family together.
I am not gonna list out all the things happening in this book because I have to leave some room for the next time I read this book. yeah, that's right this book made it to the re-read bunch. Max is one of the identical triplets whose stories come in the next two books.
I loved the story even though I felt like it was overly complicated at times I mean there are pages in this book that needs some editing. Max has a baby girl Mia with Tracy and a baby boy Micheal with Jade.
she tries a lot to drift apart from him thinking that he couldn't commit to being with her as half of his life is settled in another state .he tries to make her understand that she is continuing on a job that doesn't value her but he couldn't get it across her without hurting her. but they eventually pass all the problems on their way.
I must confess that I am writing this review after finishing the three books in a stretch, It was so addicting guys I am so giddy I think it's best I reveal the extended epilogue here. Max and Jade have four kids Micheal, two girls and a boy ten years after their initial meeting. Max opened another gym in California,he wants more kids but Jade is done 🤣😂.They are happy.
March 24, 2020
I want to preface my review by saying that accidental pregnancy is one of my all time favorite tropes and that is why I picked this one up. It’s also been a while since I really disliked a book, but I found this plot to be over the top. I also sincerely disliked the male character, as he was always making decisions for the female lead. Personally, the ending was not a happy one for me either. The whole story just made me irritated and unhappy. I can say a lot more, but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone, because you may very well be intrigued by this one.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 21, 2020
What I Loved:
I love this twist on a romance storyline! A one-night-stand turned into a pregnancy and love story was adorable, and I loved it! One other thing I just adored about this book was the cover! I just think it’s utterly fabulous and I was drawn to the book from that alone!
How I Felt:
The characters were so lovable in this story. Jade, our female lead, has no interest in love. She is focused on her career. When life throws her curve-balls though, we find how adaptable to change she can be. I liked her strength and determination in all things life gave her. Max is also not looking for love, and yet love seems to find him. He’s a wonderful love interest, and I loved his strength of character. He was willing to commit to the situation and I appreciated that so much. Together, Jade and Max make a fabulous pair and they were so fun to read about.
The story shows its humorous side from the very first scene. I found myself laughing out loud at Jade’s conversation with her friend. This conversation leads to a night of karaoke and a one-night stand. Except that one-night stand turns into a pregnancy…whoops! Now Jade has to figure out what she’s going to do. It’s a lot of choices that she never thought she’d be making.
Overall, I really enjoyed Not According to Plan. I loved how the story was woven with humor and endearing moments. The characters were fun, and the story was well-written.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend Not According to Plan to romance readers that enjoy the lighter side of romance. There is a lot of humor, mishaps, and a sweet love story for your enjoyment!
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
My review of this book will post to my blog on 3/25/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/
I love this twist on a romance storyline! A one-night-stand turned into a pregnancy and love story was adorable, and I loved it! One other thing I just adored about this book was the cover! I just think it’s utterly fabulous and I was drawn to the book from that alone!
How I Felt:
The characters were so lovable in this story. Jade, our female lead, has no interest in love. She is focused on her career. When life throws her curve-balls though, we find how adaptable to change she can be. I liked her strength and determination in all things life gave her. Max is also not looking for love, and yet love seems to find him. He’s a wonderful love interest, and I loved his strength of character. He was willing to commit to the situation and I appreciated that so much. Together, Jade and Max make a fabulous pair and they were so fun to read about.
The story shows its humorous side from the very first scene. I found myself laughing out loud at Jade’s conversation with her friend. This conversation leads to a night of karaoke and a one-night stand. Except that one-night stand turns into a pregnancy…whoops! Now Jade has to figure out what she’s going to do. It’s a lot of choices that she never thought she’d be making.
Overall, I really enjoyed Not According to Plan. I loved how the story was woven with humor and endearing moments. The characters were fun, and the story was well-written.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend Not According to Plan to romance readers that enjoy the lighter side of romance. There is a lot of humor, mishaps, and a sweet love story for your enjoyment!
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
My review of this book will post to my blog on 3/25/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/
March 26, 2020
Book: Not According to Plan
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫
Steam: 🔥
Review: This was a different story line for me, but I enjoyed the one night stand that leads to a relationship/baby plot. While parts of this particular story was a bit unrealistic for me, it didn't take away from my enjoyment.
What I loved about this book:
1. The characters are very relatable and I found myself rooting for them the whole time. Max was such a great love interest (totally swoon worthy). Jade was an independent woman with a kind personality. Combined they made an amazing couple and I enjoyed reading about them.
2. This is a sweet love story with quite a bit of whit and I often found myself laughing at the conversations between Amy and Jade. I have a similar friendship with my best friends so it made me miss them even more than I already do.
3. This story has an unconventional family dynamic, but I feel like that's the normal these days. With so many blended families and single parents, this story rings true to life more than the fairy tale HEA.
Overall I enjoyed this complicated, but sweet story. It was different, but very well written. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a light romance.
Thank you Entangled Publishing for my gifted copy.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫
Steam: 🔥
Review: This was a different story line for me, but I enjoyed the one night stand that leads to a relationship/baby plot. While parts of this particular story was a bit unrealistic for me, it didn't take away from my enjoyment.
What I loved about this book:
1. The characters are very relatable and I found myself rooting for them the whole time. Max was such a great love interest (totally swoon worthy). Jade was an independent woman with a kind personality. Combined they made an amazing couple and I enjoyed reading about them.
2. This is a sweet love story with quite a bit of whit and I often found myself laughing at the conversations between Amy and Jade. I have a similar friendship with my best friends so it made me miss them even more than I already do.
3. This story has an unconventional family dynamic, but I feel like that's the normal these days. With so many blended families and single parents, this story rings true to life more than the fairy tale HEA.
Overall I enjoyed this complicated, but sweet story. It was different, but very well written. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a light romance.
Thank you Entangled Publishing for my gifted copy.
February 20, 2020
***Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing and A.M. Madden. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own.***
Jade and Max meet at bar during a karaoke contest, with a little meddling from Jade’s friend and Max’s brother. Sparks fly and they have a one-night stand. When Jade realizes she’s pregnant six weeks later, she reaches out to him to let him know. She expects nothing from him but he wants to be a part of the baby’s life, a part of Jade’s life. It’s Jade that isn’t sure how to fit a relationship into her busy life. And how will she make junior partner at the law firm she works at and juggle an infant? For a person who lives by a plan, her plan’s just gone up in smoke.
I liked Jade and Max. Jade is independent and kind-hearted, loves her family very much, but is also very driven professionally, to the detriment of her personal life. I could totally see her raising a baby on her own while still excelling at her job. At first, I liked Max a lot. The busier his life got, the less I liked him. I wanted him to see that he had to rethink his life plan if he wanted Jade in it permanently, not the other way around. I wanted him to stop saying ‘things will work out’ and actually figure out how that could happen, and not just for him but for everyone. The pair had great chemistry and I wanted them to find happiness together. I just didn’t like how that came to happen.
I didn’t love the predicament Max found himself it, though I did like his transparency about it. That aside, I hated that it came down to Jade choosing between New York and Miami. She shouldn’t have had to choose. I hated that she was the only one who was expected to be flexible. I despised that everyone was telling Jade what to do with not only in her professional life but her love life as well, from Amy her best friend, to her sister and father and Max. And they kept harping. She’s a grown woman who is control of her life. She can make decisions just fine on her own. I was especially disappointed in Jade’s father—who couldn’t put aside his disappointment in Jade’s choices and the harm he felt it would cause her career and just be a supportive father instead of a judgmental standoffish jerk—and Max.
Jade and Max meet at bar during a karaoke contest, with a little meddling from Jade’s friend and Max’s brother. Sparks fly and they have a one-night stand. When Jade realizes she’s pregnant six weeks later, she reaches out to him to let him know. She expects nothing from him but he wants to be a part of the baby’s life, a part of Jade’s life. It’s Jade that isn’t sure how to fit a relationship into her busy life. And how will she make junior partner at the law firm she works at and juggle an infant? For a person who lives by a plan, her plan’s just gone up in smoke.
I liked Jade and Max. Jade is independent and kind-hearted, loves her family very much, but is also very driven professionally, to the detriment of her personal life. I could totally see her raising a baby on her own while still excelling at her job. At first, I liked Max a lot. The busier his life got, the less I liked him. I wanted him to see that he had to rethink his life plan if he wanted Jade in it permanently, not the other way around. I wanted him to stop saying ‘things will work out’ and actually figure out how that could happen, and not just for him but for everyone. The pair had great chemistry and I wanted them to find happiness together. I just didn’t like how that came to happen.
I didn’t love the predicament Max found himself it, though I did like his transparency about it. That aside, I hated that it came down to Jade choosing between New York and Miami. She shouldn’t have had to choose. I hated that she was the only one who was expected to be flexible. I despised that everyone was telling Jade what to do with not only in her professional life but her love life as well, from Amy her best friend, to her sister and father and Max. And they kept harping. She’s a grown woman who is control of her life. She can make decisions just fine on her own. I was especially disappointed in Jade’s father—who couldn’t put aside his disappointment in Jade’s choices and the harm he felt it would cause her career and just be a supportive father instead of a judgmental standoffish jerk—and Max.
March 16, 2020
Jade is determined to ensure that the next junior partner at the law firm where she works will be her, so her life is a case of all work and no play. The one time her girlfriend convinces her to come out and play she spends a steamy evening with a man and she now finds herself pregnant and all her life plans up in the air.
Max is the owner of a gym and he is planning on moving to Miami where he is opening another gym as well. One steamy evening with a woman has him reconsidering his future and his complicated life is about to get a whole lot more complicated.
There is no denying the chemistry between them but working out the other aspects of their life wasn’t without its challenges as they both must decide what is truly important in their lives.
Max is the owner of a gym and he is planning on moving to Miami where he is opening another gym as well. One steamy evening with a woman has him reconsidering his future and his complicated life is about to get a whole lot more complicated.
There is no denying the chemistry between them but working out the other aspects of their life wasn’t without its challenges as they both must decide what is truly important in their lives.
February 24, 2020
This ended up being a cute rom com. It had the quirky storyline, funny romance and happily ever after going for it.
It did, however, lack the fluidity of a good story. Some parts of the plot were so far fetched had me shaking my head at how two grown adults got themselves this far in life.
ie Two unplanned pregnancies within month? Recalled condoms that an intelligent business owner didn’t notice? Law firm partners that should have been sued when they asked her to recuse from junior partner for being pregnant?? And introduced identical triplets (which is super rare) but never really played it out.
It did, however, lack the fluidity of a good story. Some parts of the plot were so far fetched had me shaking my head at how two grown adults got themselves this far in life.
ie Two unplanned pregnancies within month? Recalled condoms that an intelligent business owner didn’t notice? Law firm partners that should have been sued when they asked her to recuse from junior partner for being pregnant?? And introduced identical triplets (which is super rare) but never really played it out.
March 19, 2020
Original review: A Novel Glimpse
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
I liked this book, but I think I could have loved it if the blurb had been more honest. There’s more at play here than just a women accidentally getting pregnant with a one-night stand’s baby. Max, the baby daddy, actually has another baby coming soon as well in another state. (Not really a spoiler because it’s told to the reader almost immediately. Also, no OW drama.) So the real drama surrounds that and figuring things out. I grew frustrated with Jade quickly. I didn’t want her to have to give up the way she wanted her life, but I did think she could have looked the bigger picture and what Max was facing. Cute love story, but not one that had me swooning over it.
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
I liked this book, but I think I could have loved it if the blurb had been more honest. There’s more at play here than just a women accidentally getting pregnant with a one-night stand’s baby. Max, the baby daddy, actually has another baby coming soon as well in another state. (Not really a spoiler because it’s told to the reader almost immediately. Also, no OW drama.) So the real drama surrounds that and figuring things out. I grew frustrated with Jade quickly. I didn’t want her to have to give up the way she wanted her life, but I did think she could have looked the bigger picture and what Max was facing. Cute love story, but not one that had me swooning over it.
March 27, 2020
This is a twist on the unplanned pregnancy trope. When first meet Max we learn about his pending fatherhood with a close friend in Miami. When he meets Max is is juggling New York, Miami and a baby on the way. Jade is out to celebrate her birthday. One night of hot sex and a box of defective condoms later and Jade is also pregnant. This may be a turn off for some but I was curious on how it would all play out. The story focused on Max and Jade. The other mother’s appearance was not a big factor physically but emotionally an issue for Jade. Insecurities, confusion, doubt, jobs and location cause a lot of anxiety. Both characters are career driven and have to make life altering decisions.
March 16, 2020
3.5 stars
My guilty pleasure is surprise baby books. They are usually my book palette cleanser after I read something heavy or just need a quick read. I had high hopes with this book. Unfortunately, even though there were some good elements to the story, I found that I struggled half the time.
I wanted more fluidity in the story. There were several moments that the transitions would pull me out of the story. I really appreciate this author and their hard work as I cannot even come close to doing what they do. There is a reason I am a reader and not an author. However, this book was not my favorite. The beauty with literature is that even though it wasn't for me, I am sure there will be someone else that loves this.
My guilty pleasure is surprise baby books. They are usually my book palette cleanser after I read something heavy or just need a quick read. I had high hopes with this book. Unfortunately, even though there were some good elements to the story, I found that I struggled half the time.
I wanted more fluidity in the story. There were several moments that the transitions would pull me out of the story. I really appreciate this author and their hard work as I cannot even come close to doing what they do. There is a reason I am a reader and not an author. However, this book was not my favorite. The beauty with literature is that even though it wasn't for me, I am sure there will be someone else that loves this.
March 31, 2020
* First time reading author
Not According to Plan is an interesting book. I read this book cover to cover and still, that is the best word for it. A.M takes you to a different romance level with this book. It is not a typical story of two people meeting and falling in love. This is a story about a complicated set of people that get pregnant after a one night stand then have to decide if they want to be more than parents to this child.
So going into this book do not expect a love story right off the bat. Max and Jade have a lot to get through to find their love story. But if you are willing to go through a strange story this is the book for you.
April 3, 2020
*I got this book from Entangled Publishing for my honest review*
**3.5**
While I enjoyed this story, I feel like it was missing something. But at the same time, it probably could have been cut down a bit. It felt like it was a really long book. I mean, it does follow the entire pregnancy and shortly after birth, but still. I feel the middle parts were all a lot of the same stuff. A lot of the same problems not being solved.
This book is pretty explicit with its sex scenes, so know that going in.
**3.5**
While I enjoyed this story, I feel like it was missing something. But at the same time, it probably could have been cut down a bit. It felt like it was a really long book. I mean, it does follow the entire pregnancy and shortly after birth, but still. I feel the middle parts were all a lot of the same stuff. A lot of the same problems not being solved.
This book is pretty explicit with its sex scenes, so know that going in.
April 14, 2020
Not According to Plan is Jade & Max story filled with fun, sizzle and insta-attraction .Who would of thought that a karaoke bar night out could change your life! This couples one night hook up has now resulted in the rest of their days not going according to plan . A surprise pregnancy has now left them so many decisions and choices. This couple has me so frustrated . I wanted to grab the and just talk some sense into them but eventually I just simply fell for them ! It was a quite and entertaining ride with Jade and Max.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
~~Michele McMullen ~~
March 23, 2020
An ok read for me. The storyline was a little meh for me. I did like Jade and Max and I felt they had some chemistry but not enough to pull me fully into the story. I will read more from this author but this story wasn’t for me.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 27, 2020
Hated it. Within the first chapter I hated the main character and thought there was nothing redeeming about him. When I hate a main character, there is really nothing helping me to finish the book. I struggle. This one I just threw in the towel.
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