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Ready or Not
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
A surprise pregnancy leads to even more life-changing revelations in this heartfelt, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance of found family and unexpected love. 'Cara Bastone is one of the most talented writers in the romance genre today. With her signature blend of heart, humor, and honesty, Cara's books remind you that the best stories begin and end with hope' LYSSA KAY ADAMS 'The thing I love most about Cara Bastone's books is her ability to find the romance in ordinary lives, the swoon in simple places . . . just normal folks falling in love. I ADORE it' 5* reader review for Call Me Maybe Eve Hatch is pretty content with her life. Her apartment in Brooklyn is cozy and close to her childhood best friend Willa, but far from her midwestern, traditional family who never really understood her. While her job is only dream-adjacent, she's hoping her passion and hard work will soon help her land a more glamorous role. And sure, her most recent romantic history has consisted of not one but two disappointing men named Derek. At least she always knows what to expect...until she finds herself expecting after an uncharacteristic one-night stand. The unplanned pregnancy cracks open all the relationships in her life. Eve's loyal friendship with Willa is feeling off, right when she needs her most. And it's Willa's steadfast older brother, Shep, who steps up to help. He has always been friendly, but now he's checking in, ordering her surprise lunches, listening to all her complaints, and is... suddenly kinda hot? Then there's the baby's father, who is supportive but conflicted. Before long, Eve is rethinking everything she thought she knew about herself and her world. Over the course of nine months, as Eve struggles to figure out the next right step in her expanding reality, she begins to realize that family and love, in all forms, can sneak up on you when you least expect it. ....................................................... Readers can't get enough of Cara Bastone! 'An adorable and thoroughly enjoyable read . . . I didn't want it to end' 'This is a short, sweet romance that I really enjoyed' 'I love the concept of this book . . . I've never read anything like it and for that I loved it!' 'Looking forward to reading more from this author'
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Elizabeth2
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

This book is a cozy hug! Eve‘s journey through a surprise pregnancy, discovering herself & friends-to-lovers romance is predictable but perfect. The warmth, charm and heartfelt moments shine. There‘s also a found family vibe here. The audiobook was fantastic, bringing these lovable characters to life. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 ❤️📚

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ItsAnotherJen
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

So freaking good! You ever need a good romantic comedy that reminds you of watching movies like When Harry Met Sally and its a dreary rainy weekend and all you want to do is lose yourself in the problems of characters that are so loveable and sweet and funny and you're just rooting for them to get their shit together and live happily ever after? Yes, total run on sentence with zero correct punctuation..I know. Don't care. (I adore Shep) 5 stars!!

ItsAnotherJen I should add that if you don't like reading about someone going through the experience of being pregnant, don't read it. The people who didn't like the book as much as I did seem to have a problem with that. Which is completely fine, but warrants mentioning. 3w
LiteraryinPA Great review! 3w
71 likes1 stack add2 comments
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Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Gifted to me by Lisa 💛 planning to read in September 🍁

#AboutABook
#Giftedtoyou

So many lovely gifts over the years from my Litsy family!! I am so blessed to have made so many friends here 💛🧡

TheSpineView 🥰🌞📖 3mo
Eggs 💛 Cover Love 🩵 3mo
60 likes1 stack add2 comments
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TheDaysGoBy
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

This guy has been hanging with me while I finished up this one this week. I liked the characters in this one a lot! Thats really what sells these romances for me. If I don‘t like the characters, it‘s game over. I actually laughed at some of the banter between Shep and Eve. A fun one to be sure

Ruthiella 😻😻😻 4mo
dabbe 🖤🐾🖤 4mo
23 likes2 comments
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Nessavamusic
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

This was a delightful true rom-com, I actually giggled multiple times. It also is a true friends to lovers. There is an accidental pregnancy-it happens right at the beginning so not a spoiler, but there is no hiding it. This is just a very cozy, adorable romance. Loved it! 5⭐️

49 likes2 stack adds
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Sharpeipup
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Reading in all the places today…

peanutnine Gorgeous spot! 😍 6mo
33 likes1 stack add1 comment
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Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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I‘m posting one book a day from my massive collection. No description, no reason for why I want to read it (some I‘ve had so long I don‘t even remember why!). Feel free to join in!

#ABookADay2024

May 15, 2024

🌹 ❤️💛🧡

AnnCrystal Colors match 😍👍. 6mo
CogsOfEncouragement Just read this and really enjoyed it. Quick, easy read with lots of feel good moments. 6mo
Read4life I enjoyed this one!! 6mo
57 likes4 comments
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Allthebookclubs
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

Shep is everything and oh my gosh where can I find one?! Nurse Louise was a total gem. Eve was so lucky to be surrounded by such great people during a time when life is really stressful. Book #35 in 2024

marleed I love your drawings! 7mo
Allthebookclubs Thank you 😊 7mo
9 likes1 stack add2 comments
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peanutnine
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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April #ReadingBracket2024 Fiction update
Ready or Not was my favorite read of the month. I'm having trouble comparing it to Witch King though, they are such a different vibe... Will report back later

Roary47 Ready or not was my wild card. So good! 7mo
34 likes1 stack add1 comment
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peanutnine
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

I absolutely adored this book! Bastone has become an auto-read author for me. She writes such beautifully crafted characters. I loved witnessing Eve grow into herself and figure out what she wants out of life after her unplanned pregnancy news. Her relationships with her close friends and family are all affected by this life development in unexpected ways 💕
#littensloveromance @StayCurious

46 likes1 stack add
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.29-30: how brave Eve is to trust Ethan! That‘s so great and big of her. The better they start off on this rocky road the smoother it‘ll become. And what a birthing experience! I‘m guessing she didn‘t go for the epidural - silly silly woman. Review ⬇️

StayCurious I truly enjoyed this book. The characters were so likeable and they really worked on their flaws. The author worked on this book while she was pregnant with both of her sons and the experiences really seem so real. the conversations were honest and raw and made me feel all the feelings. I almost wished for an epilogue though - just to catch a glimpse of where they get to. (edited) 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement I enjoyed this one too. Eve coming home to her apartment all set up illustrating the loving, supportive community she has for herself and Miriam was beautiful. 7mo
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julesG This romance was a breath of fresh air. I especially liked the honest characters and the great character development. 7mo
peanutnine I loved this book! The characters were so real and flawed yet lovable. I agree, an epilogue would have been the perfect cherry on top! I've enjoyed Bastone's other books but she's become an auto read author for me now! 7mo
Kshakal I enjoyed this book very much!! It was unlike any other romance book I had read… I appreciated the growth of all the characters and loved how strong Eve became! 7mo
Julsmarshall I loved this one so much! 7mo
OriginalCyn620 I agree about the epilogue! Loved this one too! 7mo
LiseWorks Or another book with Ethans story. 7mo
peanutnine @LiseWorks oh yes I would read that! Ethan finding someone who accepts his new unconventional family 7mo
Roary47 I would have liked an epilogue too, but Ethan‘s story @LiseWorks I love that idea for the same reasons @peanutnine mentioned. 7mo
julieclair I loved this book! I agree with everyone‘s comments - character growth, realistic conversations, epilogue (or even a sequel) needed. It was very fun reading this together. Thanks for hosting, @StayCurious ! 7mo
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LiseWorks
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

I so enjoyed reading this one. I want to read a book about Ethan finding the love of his life. Thanks to @StayCurious for hosting #LitsyLoveRomance. I loved this book #ISpyBingo February (I have another line) April (Slow Month) @Clwojick @TheAromaofBooks #AwesomeAprilReadathon #ReadAway @Andrew65 @DieAReader @GHABI4ROSES

DieAReader 🥳Great! 7mo
TheAromaofBooks Woohoo!! 7mo
20 likes2 comments
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Kshakal
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

What an adorable book and a romance unlike I had ever read before! I loved all of the characters growth throughout and had the perfect happily ever after! #littensloveromance

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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.27-28: I love their real conversations. I think being so honest and open will make them really go the distance. We‘ll finish up the last of the book tomorrow!

julesG This book is so refreshing. No endless miscommunication. Instead we get honest talk. Honest feelings. That's what I want to see in a contemporary romance. 7mo
46 likes2 comments
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Roary47
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

5✨We start off knowing our main character had a one night stand and ended up pregnant. As her baby grows, she does too. Discovering what she wants in life, what really matters, and what goals she wants in the future she needs to work for. Excellent character development, funny, heartfelt, and completely entertaining. #LittensLoveRomance @StayCurious

StayCurious I loved it too! 7mo
18 likes1 comment
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.25-26: Oy Ethan! You‘re such a mess. But at least when you‘re drunk you‘re honest. Poor Shep. But I love him even more now. And good for Eve. I honestly wouldn‘t have had the guts to turn down Xaria‘s offer. But she‘s finally going after what she wants now.

LiseWorks How embarrassing for Ethan to running to Eve and then find out she is with Shep 7mo
OriginalCyn620 So glad for Eve! And Shep has made my list of book boyfriends! 😂 7mo
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CogsOfEncouragement Shep continues to outshine everyone with his care and beyond expectation kindness in action. He‘s a dream.
smh Ethan, Ethan, Ethan. Baby steps I guess.
Then we‘ve got Eve absolutely going for it. I love Xaria, what a stupendous mentor.
7mo
Read4life Bastone is weaving the story and characters wonderfully. 7mo
julieclair Shep‘s halo is really glowing brightly in this chapter! To be able to care for Ethan like he did. Unreal. 7mo
Roary47 @OriginalCyn620 The book b/f award definitely goes to Shep! I was thinking that too @julieclair he doesn‘t super like the guy, but his kindness is amazing. 7mo
julesG I am amazed at how mature Shep is, not normally what we see in books (or real life). He is kind to a person he doesn't really like, but knows that Ethan is going to be a part of Eve and the baby's lives. Way to go Ms Bastone, you've written a true hero. 7mo
34 likes8 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.23-24: Eve‘s a better person than I am haha. I‘d still be telling Ethan to get his act together. But she‘s doing so much personal growth it‘s kinda great. And then there‘s Shep and things are finally moving forward and there are kisses and it‘s so sweet. What a nice chapter. I can‘t wait to see where we go from here.

peanutnine 🥰🥰 7mo
LiseWorks It was like Shep was waiting for her all this time and from Shep's perspective was "What took you so long? " 7mo
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OriginalCyn620 Finally! 🥰 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Nurse Louise is a treasure. Shep showing up with the child seat on the bike - can he get any more supportive? But also, did anyone else want to be told that he remembered to get the bike off the bus rack? Did he forget it? He goes to the bodega. Where is the bike?!? (Yes, I‘m happy about the start of their romance. But, but, but, the bike!) 7mo
julesG @CogsOfEncouragement 🤣🤣🤣 Yepp, where's the bike Shep? 7mo
Read4life Chapter 24 was great! I listened to it twice ☺️ 7mo
julieclair This was such a sweet chapter! Shep is 100% perfect. The bike seat! 💗 7mo
Roary47 Shep is awesome! 7mo
40 likes9 comments
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Graciouswarriorprincess
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Book 79/100 of the year.

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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.21-22: what a great cathartic hug-fest with Willa. It makes me happy that they‘ve been honest now with each other and are back on track. Although I think Eve feels more for Shep than she let on. It‘s love - not just a crush. Will Willa support her more if she understands it‘s more than just a whim? Is it more than just a whim?

Read4life I was relieved that they had a real talk. I think they both needed to talk and listen to each other. It seemed like they were making assumptions about each other‘s feelings, behaviors, etc because they have known each other so well for so long. 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Willa sharing about her miscarriage added so much to being able to understand her, and I don‘t fault her for not telling. When people know, they have “helpful” questions/comments and it is too much. Eve admitting to herself that, yeah, she often doesn‘t even know what she wants seems like a really good thing to now know about herself and way overdue. To know yourself, how you generally operate makes life better. 7mo
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Roary47 @CogsOfEncouragement I‘m also glad she opened up about it. My heart broke for her all over again. 7mo
julieclair I‘m so glad Eve and Willa cleared the air and were honest with each other. I do think Eve downplayed her feelings for Shep a bit - although maybe she hasn‘t realized or admitted to herself that they are true, deep feelings. 7mo
julesG I agree with you all. It was necessary for Willa and Eve to talk and I'm glad they hugged it out. I'd love to see a happy ending for Willa too. 7mo
47 likes6 comments
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Read4life
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

I loved this audiobook 💙💙
I finished this early for our #LittensLoveRomance buddy read so I‘m not giving anything away. It was my favorite read/listen of last week. Such a great cast of characters.
#LittensLoveRomance #BookSpinBingo #ReadAway2024

TheAromaofBooks Yay!! 7mo
DieAReader 🥳Great! 7mo
53 likes2 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.17-18: I‘m glad we got to see pregnant dragon lady come out with that jerk Eve ran into. The nerve of him to say those things! I love that she had a little saviour in that old lady. Eve needs to open herself up to the possibility of Shep and be honest with him about what she‘s feeling. It‘s obvious he‘s feeling something too. Friends are not usually so cozy cozy. And now she thinks she loooooooves him - that‘s a big deal⬇️

StayCurious But oh wait, Ethan comes back and he‘s been under lock and key. Geez man - that‘s a toxic relationship you‘ve got going there. Yeesh. Wake up and smell the fresh air of freedom. And stop living someone else‘s life and start living your own! (edited) 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Eve ripping into Jeff was so satisfying and then that feisty woman having her back was the cherry on top. It really seems like Ethan should not be with Eleni whether he got Eve pregnant or not, crickey. 7mo
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OriginalCyn620 @CogsOfEncouragement I agree with you 💯 7mo
LiseWorks I'm glad Eve made Ethan realize that maybe the relationship he has is not good for him. She seems a bit controlling. 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Also, I get why Eve doesn‘t trust herself to make a big move with Shep right now. And I LOVE that she made a decision to be happy when he is happy - to actively make him happy. Superb decision. 7mo
Read4life I agree with all of those points @CogsOfEncouragement 💙 I like that we‘re seeing Eve speak up and make decisions she believes will make her happy. 7mo
julieclair I‘m glad Ethan found the courage to sneak out and visit Eve. But my goodness gracious, why can‘t he see that he needs to ditch Eleni? 7mo
julesG Ethan needs to get out of the relationship, or Eleni needs a reality check. Either way it's toxic right now. Team Eve and Shep. Can they please get together? 7mo
Roary47 I agree @CogsOfEncouragement Eleni is bad news. Plus finally we see firey Eve. The older woman is my hero. Just talk to Shep already. 🤩 7mo
Graciouswarriorprincess I hope that Ethan dumps Ellen and I loved the feisty woman! Eve just needs to admit to herself and Shep that she loves him. 7mo
34 likes11 comments
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Read4life
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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julieclair I, too, am loving 7mo
40 likes1 comment
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Read4life
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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OriginalCyn620
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

I really loved this! I won‘t say too much because I read it with the #LittensLoveRomance group, and as is usual for me, I finished ahead of schedule. It was touching and sweet, with just a little bit of spice. There‘s also a great cast of characters! And the cover is so adorables,

#bookspinbingo

Roary47 I‘m going to be right behind you. I‘m having trouble putting it down. 7mo
peanutnine This one is so hard to stop reading each day! 💖 7mo
TheAromaofBooks Woohoo!! 7mo
StayCurious Yes I too will probably zoom to the end! 7mo
julieclair Yes! The adorable cover. 😍 7mo
42 likes2 stack adds5 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.15-16: Ethan is entitled to his feelings - but the baser part of me is shouting he‘s a coward! I can‘t believe he hasn‘t checked in with her!? But Shep brought her groceries and these two need to get together so bad! Not just for Eve‘s state of mind - but for mine. Also - only having 12 weeks of maternity leave is so hard - I‘m sorry for any new mom that loses out of extra recovery time and time with their baby.

LiseWorks It is about time that she decides to go to stores for stuff for the baby and to let people know she is expecting. It's like she finally realized this baby is real and is coming fast. Ethan got scared!. 7mo
julesG To me(!) 12 weeks maternity leave sounds like too little and a lot. But that's just because when I had child #1 I was self-employed and hated the mandatory maternity leave (here in Germany: 6 weeks before the due date plus 8 weeks after the birth) - this meant not earning, but having expenses for 14 weeks at least. Anyway, I agree, Eve might want to tell people soon and get ready for the baby. As for Ethan, I can only offer 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️ 7mo
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Graciouswarriorprincess @StayCurious I was screaming at Ethan too. I am not sure if he is confused about what to do or a coward but probably both. Poor Eve trying to figure this out and 12 weeks is so little time. 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement I‘m so happy Eve is making pregnant friends, especially Marla at work. We got the scoop on Heather and Shep. She was incredibly good to him when he still needed her. He seems like a guy who deserves that kind of treatment too, he would have done the same. 7mo
OriginalCyn620 @Graciouswarriorprincess @CogsOfEncouragement I agree with you both! It‘s like Eve was waiting around for Ethan to offer up guidance and companionship through the wild journey that is pregnancy. I‘m glad she finally realized she doesn‘t need Ethan for that. 7mo
julieclair I‘m so disappointed in Ethan. Ghosting her at this point is so wrong. 7mo
StayCurious @julesG it‘s interesting how different things are depending on where you live and what your situation is. I was lucky enough in Canada to have 14 months off - with 6 months paid from my work (which I know is amazing). But the rest of the time with a chunk of my salary gone and having to afford formula and diapers and everything else - it was a lot. 7mo
julesG If you're employed (not self-employed or a freelance) you get a year of maternity leave and you still get your salary every month (the company will be recompensed). I could enjoy this perk with child #2. 7mo
Roary47 For all three of my pregnancies I had a leave bank I earned. I was able to be paid for about 4-5 weeks with the bank (varied with each) and then could still take more with FMLA, but because I didn‘t have hours in the bank I wouldn‘t be paid. I just took the minimum required amount of 6 weeks. Pregnancy feels slow, but it goes so fast for others. I want to think that Ethan is figuring out things or working extra hours to provide her funds. 7mo
39 likes10 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance Ch.13-14: What the hell, Ethan!? How can you still be so unsure if you‘re going to be involved? Man, your GF must have you by the —- well, you know. But you‘ve even told your mom! She‘s not going to forget that she has a grandchild out there! Ugh. Frustrated for poor Eve. Ethan needs to man up. Also, I love Nurse Blank.

LiseWorks I found the last chapter to be intense. I was like, in or out, Ethan ? 7mo
peanutnine So frustrated for Eve. But I'm so glad she finally spoke her mind to Ethan! It's honestly sad to see how much he really seems to want to be involved but clearly his girlfriend has other ideas and he's conflicted ☹️ It's a shame because Eve can't reliably count on him in her plan making for the future 7mo
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julieclair Ethan needs to ditch the girlfriend. She‘s making his life miserable. 7mo
Roary47 I agree with you all. Ethan was excited at the ultrasound. He wants to care for his child. That girlfriend either needs to be a bonus mom and brought into this, or take a hike. It‘s not right of her to pull the strings. It‘s his child not hers. If she‘s not cool with it, bye. 👋🏻 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Ugh. Ethan. C‘mon man. 7mo
julesG Ethan, grow a pair. It's your life, your future, your child. If your GF loves you, she accepts your decisions. It's not called partnership for no reason. 🙄🙄🙄 7mo
OriginalCyn620 I agree with you all! 7mo
Kshakal Ethan is so frustrating! 7mo
50 likes9 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance Ch. 11-12: Thousands a month for daycare is crazy. She‘ll need child support for sure. But how to broach that subject? Ethan told his family but stIll acts like he‘s doing something wrong by being at Eve‘s place - he‘s so guilty he jumps to answer his phone when it buzzes. Elodi is going to be a pain in the bum I think. And Eve is so awkward around Shep now - will she be able to come to terms with her new feelings?

peanutnine Ugh Eleni's gonna be one of those paranoid possessive girlfriends. I'm already over it 🙄 The sparks between Eve and Shep though! He's gonna have to make the first move cause she's skittish, but he's a gentleman so... I'm sensing a slow burn 7mo
OriginalCyn620 Yeah, I don‘t even live in NYC (which we all know is crazy expensive), but almost 21 years ago when I had my first kid, daycare costs was the reason me and my husband decided that it made more sense for me to stay at home with the baby. Daycare would have been our second largest monthly cost, right after our mortgage. So, it was either that or pretty much all of my salary would go to child care. I feel for Eve, but she has every right to 👇🏻 (edited) 7mo
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OriginalCyn620 ask for and expect child support! And frankly, Ethan seems happy and excited, but his stupid girlfriend is raining on his daddy parade. Still not liking her! 7mo
julieclair I loved the lemonade scene! And it was nice of Ethan to invite them to his bar. He seems like a decent guy, but his girlfriend is really laying stress on him. I thought it was sweet of his mom to give Eve the painting. She is, after all, the baby‘s grandmother. 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement I‘m looking forward to what happens at the bar. @julieclair I loved the painting too. So sweet. 7mo
Read4life @CogsOfEncouragement me, too. I think the bar will be interesting. The girlfriend definitely needs to go but I‘m definitely team Shep. 🤓 7mo
julesG The girlfriend doesn't make sense to me. Why would Ethan even want to be with such a person? I know, love doesn't always make sense, but he seems to know what the problem is but doesn't stand up for himself. 7mo
Roary47 The slight jealous with the lemonade was so cute. @julieclair @CogsOfEncouragement I also thought the painting was really sweet. He can be the dad without having Eve as a girlfriend. I hope his girlfriend realizes that soon. I can understand that she is concerned for their relationship, but Ethan isn‘t really talking things out with Eve so he might not be talking things out with her either. 7mo
40 likes9 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.9-10: things are getting pretty intimate between Shep and Eve. Do they both feel it? Eve definitely senses that things have changed between them. And she is not ready.
Eve‘s family reacted better than I thought they would. Two of her brothers at least seem nice. But they‘re a bit far away to give too much support. It was hard to find a meme that encapsulated their situation. Having such an age difference would be strange.

OriginalCyn620 Her family did react pretty well…I was wondering how that would go down but I‘m glad it was okay. Eve and Shep are both catching feelings and I‘m here for it! I can‘t wait to see how it comes to light and who makes the first move! 7mo
LiseWorks It's getting really close for Shep to say something. I wish he would. Why do people wait? And Willa gets on my nerves. Her not liking the slippersnwasnreally annoying. 7mo
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julieclair They totally seemed like a couple during the baby-kicking scenes. Surely they both felt it? 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Awwwww. What a sweet moment with the baby kicking. I like Eve‘s family, they are supporting her well. (edited) 7mo
maich @CogsOfEncouragement It was so sweet moment❤️ They have feelings but they are not yet aware of them. Brothers seem nice they want to support her and help. I'm glad they don't judge her. 7mo
42 likes6 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch.7-8: do we think Shep is just being supportive or does he have feelings for Eve? The two of them are definitely cozy. He‘s very sweet. And then…there‘s Ethan. This poor guy. His GF must be putting him through the wringer. For him to just now ask about paternity? That wasn‘t him - that has jealous other woman written all over it. Although it is a smart, practical question.⬇️

StayCurious But then he bought her slippers. He‘s kind of sweet too. Or he wants to be. 7mo
peanutnine Ethan is so hot and cold, it's agonizing 😩 I hope Shep has feelings already because all of Eve's flutters for him are going to be confusing and she's gonna blame them on hormones and he needs to convince her they would be good together 7mo
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peanutnine Also explain why he's being cagey about that last year with his ex. I'm curious for that story to come out 7mo
OriginalCyn620 The scene with Ethan definitely has the girlfriend‘s fingerprints all over it. We haven‘t been introduced to her yet, but it seems clear that she wears the pants in that relationship, when she can be bothered to be in the relationship. Can y‘all tell I don‘t like her? 🤣 7mo
OriginalCyn620 I‘m thinking that Shep has had feelings for Eve for a while but maybe because of their dynamic and because of Willa, he‘s never acted on it. That could be a tricky situation! 7mo
LiseWorks I don't know what to think about Ethan. It's like he is hoping it's not his. Or she will take him off the hook. The slippers made me melt. Mostly because it wasn't something for the baby but rather for her. If it wasn't for the Gf, he would be right there. As for Shep, he needs to share those feelings with her. 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement Ohhhh, this difficult situation has me empathizing with all these characters. I‘ve been getting the vibe that Shep cares about Eve as a close family friend. I had a friend who was close with her brother, and in turn the brother was always really nice to me because of that. Never any other feelings about it. I‘m not sure Shep feels romantically towards Eve…YET. Rooting for it though. 7mo
maich @StayCurious I feel the same about Ethan. I don't think he's 100% aware that he's going to be a father yet. I like Shep more than Ethan. He is so nice to her and I hope they will be together at the end. 7mo
julieclair I think Shep has feelings for her. And I like how they have fun together. Ethan is in a tough place. I think he‘s a decent guy who would be totally supportive if the girlfriend wasn‘t in the picture. But both men did very sweet things for her… Shep with the lunch delivery (including the extra pickle!) and Ethan with the slippers. 7mo
41 likes1 stack add10 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch5-6: So…what do we think of Ethan? I get that he‘s out of his depth, but I do wish he could be a bit stronger for Eve. And for his GF in fact. I can‘t believe he didn‘t tell her yet. Was he hoping Eve wouldn‘t keep it? And then he‘d have nothing to tell??
I hate that her friendship with Willa has become strained. It hurts my heart. But I do love me some Shep. What an adorable guy.

Kshakal Ethan aggravates me… be a man for goodness sakes! 7mo
peanutnine @Kshakal yes! He needs to step up a bit. Poor Eve with major decision fatigue already 😓 7mo
See All 9 Comments
LiseWorks I have a feeling that Ethan is unsure of what to do. It's almost like he wants Eve to make the decisions right now. So it's kind of awkward. 7mo
OriginalCyn620 I get that Ethan was blindsided by the news, but I think you‘re exactly right Renee! I think too that he was hoping Eve wouldn‘t keep the baby. And yes, he needs to nut up already! 7mo
maich @OriginalCyn620 I agree with you. He's hoping. Willa will have to accept the situation. The sooner the better for her. Eve needs her friend now. 7mo
julesG Eve was blindsided too. But she didn't run around like a headless chicken. Ethan needs to accept the responsibility, make up his mind and talk to his girlfriend and Eve. 7mo
Read4life My thoughts exactly, @julesG 7mo
Roary47 Ethan needs to decide what he wants to do. I agree with all of you that he thought she would just terminate, and they don‘t know each other well enough to just talk it out. Not telling the gf though. That won‘t go over well. 7mo
37 likes9 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance Ch.3-4: I used this meme but really, Shep was so great while Eve was crying all over him-What a great friend! He knew exactly what to say. Poor Eve: what a blow to find out the guy who knocked you up is in a serious and complicated relationship. I really felt for Eve, thinking she‘s not going to get a happy ending at all. I mean yes, she hardly knows Ethan, but she‘s not wrong in hoping there might have been something there⬇️

StayCurious Now she has boggy waters to navigate with Ethan and his girlfriend. I doubt she‘ll be very happy to learn about this. 7mo
LiseWorks This sounds complicated. I am starting to think it's best to leave him out of it. These days, it's ok to be a single mom. 7mo
See All 13 Comments
OriginalCyn620 Yeah, I was wondering if Eve had any sort of expectations from the father of her baby since they clearly don‘t know each other well. And in the little glimpse we got of Ethan, he did seem like a good guy, but since he‘s back with his girlfriend, I‘m inclined to think he won‘t be there for Eve. But I could be wrong! And I really hope his whole story about being broken up with his gf wasn‘t a lie. And I know we‘re only 4 chapters in, but 👇🏻 7mo
OriginalCyn620 I already want Eve and Shep to get together! Which could be complicated, but I still want it. 7mo
Graciouswarriorprincess I felt for Eve but I agree with you @LiseWorks . It‘s ok to be a single mom, difficult but you make it work. And @OriginalCyn620 I would love to see Eve and Shep together. 🩷 7mo
Roary47 I agree with @LiseWorks it‘s okay to be a single mom. She doesn‘t know Ethan she should keep her heart distant. I wish they would just get over the awkwardness and find out what each is feeling. Does Ethan want anything to do with his DNA contribution? If not sign him off. I‘m with @OriginalCyn620 I‘m shipping Eve and Shep! Ethan can figure hisself out. Side note: maybe the baby can be adopted by a certain friend if Eve is t ready? 7mo
peanutnine @OriginalCyn620 my first thought re Ethan and his girlfriend: WE WERE ON A BREAK 😂 let's hope she's not upset by this new baby development 7mo
peanutnine Although I agree with @Roary47 if he makes it too complicated, let him off the hook 7mo
julieclair I thought Ethan‘s reaction when she first told him was interesting… kind of hard to know what he was thinking. He seems like a decent guy, but I can‘t see him being in this for the long haul. 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement I thought it was good that Eve wasn‘t left to get all kinds of hopes up for two days. Very decent of Ethan to chase her down. He was in shock and continually interrupted so it isn‘t too unrealistic that he didn‘t explain his gf situation before that. And yes, Shep continues to be endearing. 7mo
julesG @peanutnine 🤣🤣🤣 mine too 7mo
maich Ethan first seems like a decent guy who really likes her. But then he has a girfriend. I didn't expect that. I hope Shep and Eve will be together. That he will help her with the baby. 7mo
46 likes13 comments
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance: Ch1-2: One night of fun really can change your life forever. Eve finds out that what was supposed to be a one night stand landed her pregnant - and while she‘s still trying to process everything, she tells her best friend and doesn‘t exactly get the best reaction. I mean - I get that Willa is entitled to her feelings but Eve is right - she did make the news completely about her, and that‘s not right.⬇️

StayCurious When Eve needs her best friend the most, Willa isn‘t there for her. Sad. Already this book has me feeling the feels. I‘m looking forward to more with Willa‘s brother though. He seems sweet. 7mo
LiseWorks He does, I like hin already, I also was disappointed in her friend. 7mo
See All 11 Comments
OriginalCyn620 Yeah, I get that Willa was upset by the news considering she‘s having fertility issues, but she checked out when Eve needed her. Not her finest friend moment, but their friendship seems strong. And I already have a crush on Shep! 7mo
peanutnine I'm so glad Eve didn't apologize for "springing the news" on Willa. Yes, it must be difficult for her with her fertility issues but it's not Eve's fault. I really hope they can talk things out soon instead of skirting around their feelings. I have a feeling that Shep is gonna step up for the emotional support she needs though, I love him already 7mo
CogsOfEncouragement I‘ve had a few people in my life have difficulty conceiving. One adopted three children, and still couldn‘t bring herself to attend my baby shower. She sent a sweet gift though. I‘ve seen glimpses of their heartbreak month after month and feel for Willa. Shep is completely endearing. 7mo
maich I understand Willa. I've tried for 5 years to get pregnant and all my friends already had childrens. Everyone asked us 'what are you waiting it's time for childrens'. My mother tormented me with questions like these. It was hard time. Finally I got pregnant with high risk pregnancy. And gave birth at 32 weeks to premature baby. 7mo
julesG I loved Shep's reaction to the news. Willa has her reasons for not being overly enthusiastic. I get that the situation is tough on her, but Eve is her best friend, she could have mustered a tiny bit of cheer. 7mo
Roary47 I also understand Willa like you @maich I tried for six years with similar comments. I also agree with your thoughts @CogsOfEncouragement I have a friend struggling who lost her last one when we were pregnant together. She stopped spending time with me after my oldest turned 1 because it was painful. We still talk and she supports me. I support her as best we can. I hope Willa will be able to work through her emotions to support Eve. 7mo
Roary47 Shep is already my favorite! 🥰 7mo
julieclair Shep seems like a great guy. Hopefully he will step in to support Eve if Willa just can‘t. 7mo
43 likes11 comments
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maich
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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I was sick all week. I was laid up with fever and aches. I had no will to read. I feel better today and started reading Zorrie for #SundayBuddyRead and Ready or Not for #LittensLoveRomance

#hyggehour #hyggehourreadathon #litsolace
@AllDebooks @TheBookHippie @Chrissyreadit @jenniferw88

AmyG Glad you are feeling better. 7mo
TheBookHippie Glad things are looking ♥️ up. Awful to be sick 😝. 7mo
StayCurious Hope you‘re doing better! 7mo
See All 15 Comments
DebinHawaii I hope you keeping feeling better! 💛 7mo
Librarybelle Hope you continue to feel better! 7mo
maich @AmyG @TheBookHippie @StayCurious @DebinHawaii @Librarybelle Thank you. I've been on an antibiotic since Friday and I'm much better. 💜💜 7mo
MemoirsForMe Glad you‘re feeling better! ❤️ 7mo
maich @UwannaPublishme thank you❤️💜 7mo
Chrissyreadit Hope you continue to heal 💛 7mo
lazydaizee I hope you feel better now. 7mo
maich @Chrissyreadit @lazydaizee thank you. I feel much better❤️❤️ 7mo
SaceReads I hope you‘re feeling better! 7mo
maich @SaceReads I am better. Thank you 7mo
Chrissyreadit checking in to make sure you received your staycationintime swap match? 6mo
maich @Chrissyreadit I received and already ordered books. 6mo
52 likes1 stack add15 comments
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peaKnit
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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1. Work, a retirement party and helping my munchkin move to a new apartment.
2. None, I usually read in bed.
3. A nice book mark or barring that…whatever I can find
4. Tagged
#motivationalmonday @Cupcake12
 @JenReadsAlot @Kshakal @TheSpineView

TheSpineView Thanks for the tag! 8mo
Cupcake12 Thanks for joining in. Have a great week xx 8mo
23 likes2 comments
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marleed
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

This was such a feel good read with lovable characters and forward motion the whole way for MC, Eve. The few supporting characters are interesting on their own and I can imagine the author writing them into the MCs of their own stories.

AnnCrystal Beautifully book-staged 👏🤩👍. 8mo
marleed @AnnCrystal oh thank you! 8mo
JessieKB 💗💛💐 beautiful pic!! 8mo
marleed @JessieKB Thank you, it was such a beautiful springy cover that I thought it deserved some extra effort! 8mo
78 likes2 stack adds4 comments
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LitsyEvents
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance Our reading pace for our April read will be 2 chapters per day starting April
14. I'm looking forward to reading with you again!
All are welcome to join us!

Via @staycurious

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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance Our reading pace for our April read will be 2 chapters per day starting April 14. I‘m looking forward to reading with you again! All are welcome to join us!

LiseWorks Great! 8mo
julesG I fear I've read it all in one sitting last night. 🙈🙈🙈 I'm looking forward to the discussion. 8mo
See All 11 Comments
julieclair @julesG Ooohhh! That‘s a good sign. 😀 8mo
Read4life I‘m looking forward to this one. 💙 I hope I can follow the timeline, but @julesG has me wanting to pick it up right now! 🤓 8mo
OriginalCyn620 Yay! @julesG @julieclair @read4life I don‘t know how well I will stick to the schedule but this book sounds very promising! @StayCurious I‘m so looking forward to reading this with you and the gang! 8mo
StayCurious @julesG @julieclair @Read4life @OriginalCyn620 it‘s totally fine if we don‘t stick to the schedule! It‘ll still be fun to discuss😊 8mo
maich Can't wait to read it with you. You can tag me in the discussion posts. 8mo
CogsOfEncouragement I can't get this one from the library, so I was going to pass. Then I looked up what else Bastone has written. I had forgotten her name! I absolutely adored Sweet Talk, Call Me Maybe, Seatmate, and Love at First Psych! I'll happily pay for this one to do a BR. Can't hardly wait. 8mo
peanutnine So looking forward to this!! 🩷 8mo
julieclair @CogsOfEncouragement That‘s a great endorsement! I haven‘t read any of her other books, but I suspect they will soon be added to my TBR, lol! 8mo
39 likes11 comments
review
Mpcacher
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

I loved this sweet rom-com. It had some great humour and just the right amount of spice for me (more story than spice - but still spicy where appropriate). What I found a refreshing change was the cast of likable characters, albeit human and with flaws. As a mother of three, I also enjoyed the memories the story triggered as the main character's pregnancy progressed. I had trouble putting this one down. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. 4.5/5

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LitsyEvents
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Via @StayCurious

#LittensLoveRomance here is our April read! I realize that it's a newer book so I hope it's not too difficult to find. I will post the reading pace and start date (which will be mid month) once I have my copy and can plan it out. Please let me know if you're interested in joining me this month.

LiseWorks I would love to but I can't get the book, my library doesn't have it and I don't buy books. If I can't get it for free I wait until I can. 8mo
40 likes1 comment
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StayCurious
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#LittensLoveRomance here is our April read! I realize that it‘s a newer book so I hope it‘s not too difficult to find. I will post the reading pace and start date (which will be mid month) once I have my copy and can plan it out. Please let me know if you‘re interested in joining me this month.

CatLass007 Rats. It‘s not at my library yet. Several Cara Bastone books are free on Audible but not this one. Please continue to tag me on this, I‘m not sure if I‘ll be joining in or not. 8mo
See All 13 Comments
willaful I can't get it in time so I'll bow out for this month. Have fun! 8mo
OriginalCyn620 I am in! This was one of the books I got from #botm last month! 8mo
peanutnine Tag me please! I was thinking about buying this one anyway 8mo
Graciouswarriorprincess I‘m in. I have the book. 😊 8mo
Read4life I‘m in! 8mo
Kshakal Can‘t wait! 🤓 8mo
julieclair I‘m in! 8mo
julesG I'm in. 8mo
TheAromaofBooks I seem to be overcommitted on buddy reads this month, so I think I will pass for April. Tag me for the voting again in May, please!! 😁 8mo
Roary47 I‘m in this month. 🥰💛 8mo
53 likes13 comments
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Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Lisa! Thank you so much for this box of goodies! The book journal is amazing! I will use it for 2025! I‘ve been eyeing this book! 📚 love the magnets and book clips! The hour glass is so cool! Love everything! Thanks again!! 🫶🏻🤗❤️

#LitsyLove

MemoirsForMe 😍😍😍 8mo
TheSpineView So glad you like! Enjoy! 8mo
64 likes2 comments
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Julsmarshall
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

What an unusual, lovely, romantic, and authentic story about a woman who is on autopilot until an unplanned pregnancy throws her life into technicolor. There were some tough moments but so many sweet ones and the way the people around her showed up for her had me grinning from ear to ear. I will seek out more from Bastone! #BOTM #BookspinBingo @TheAromaofBooks

TheAromaofBooks OOoo what a lovely cover!! So colorful!! 8mo
64 likes3 stack adds1 comment
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kimmypete1
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

Cara Bastone weaves humor and all the feels in this one. Loved it.

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NikkiKey94
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Mehso-so

I am not a fan of the surprise pregnancy trope but I decided to give this one a shot because it had such rave reviews. I did enjoy the book enough that I finished it. I struggled to get into it at first but it did pick up. The romance was cute but it took a while to get there so if you like slow burns this is your book. Overall it was a good book.

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mcipher
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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I *should* be doing about 20 other things but it‘s pouring rain and the cats are very convincing that reading in bed is a good life choice, so I‘m just going to maybe finish this book before I get motivated. (This one is cute! I get a little annoyed with some of her over the top descriptions - I get it, dude is large, you have a crush - but it also made me go awwww and fondly remember being pregnant,… 22 years ago!!)

Lcsmcat Kitties are always right about these things. I have a tabby and a tuxie too and they never steer me wrong about reading on a dreary day. 😻 9mo
dabbe 🖤🐾🐾🖤 9mo
mcipher @Lcsmcat They definitely know what they‘re talking about!! It was the right choice. 9mo
mcipher @dabbe 😸 9mo
Leftcoastzen The cats are right! 👏😸😸😻 9mo
46 likes5 comments
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LittlebearReads
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

This was very cute! I was nervous it might get awkward since it‘s a “friends-to-lovers” where one friend spends the entire book pregnant, but it never did. A great read for folks who loved the show “Gilmore Girls” and anything romance that doesn‘t get explicit.

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TorieStorieS
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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Pickpick

Excuse the #PuppyBomb on my February #BookOfTheMonth pick! I had so much fun with this #OneSittingRead! It makes for a great Valentine‘s romance! Eve‘s story of a one-night stand that ends up turning her life upside down when she realizes weeks later that she‘s pregnant. Characters that feel real and a satisfyingly romantic storyline, and genuine emotion, I literally couldn‘t put this one down! Excited to read more from Bastone in the future!

Soubhiville I love the puppy bomb, and the book backdrop is fun. 🙂 9mo
TorieStorieS @Soubhiville Thanks! The coffee table is exactly head-level now and Owen is always curious about decor changes! The runner is from World Market 🥰 9mo
58 likes2 comments
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angel1
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This was such a sweet, romantic and also funny love story to read for the month of February! I had to pair it with the lyrics of my wedding song, I Cross My Heart By George Strait…it seems fitting with this book😍

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks 💛💛💛 9mo
16 likes1 comment
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TheSpineView
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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I chose Ready Or Not by Cara Bastone as my February BOTM pick. Is it consequence or not that the title is the same as my horse's registered name? 😂😂😂

Leftcoastzen That‘s a great name! 🐴 10mo
TheSpineView @Leftcoastzen 👍🤩🌞 10mo
marleed That‘s great! 10mo
TheSpineView @marleed 🌞😍😊 10mo
66 likes4 comments
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Julsmarshall
Ready or Not | Cara Bastone
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#BOTM dropped and was tough to choose this month!

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks It was tough!! 10mo
Laughterhp I picked heartless hunter too! 10mo
44 likes1 stack add2 comments