Reviews

Well that was surprising! I honestly and truly didn’t expect to enjoy this book so much and that was in large part due to the AMAZING narration by Alex Finke. She had the voices, yes, but her animation of the characters and the addition of actual sighs and laughter really brought this book to life.

I was not expecting to like this book so much because surprise pregnancy isn’t my favorite trope and quite possibly could be my least favorite. But more than one person said, ok, but try this one. So I did.

There are a number of factors that contributed to my enjoyment of this novel besides the aforementioned top tier narration. The likable characters for one. Eve’s bubbly, down to earth, funny personality made it really easy to spend time with her. Shep is literally the best. He anticipates all of Eve’s needs, is there whenever she needs him, and is unwaveringly supportive. If I had any complaints about him it would be he needs to be a little more self serving; just sometimes. Ethan is more complicated, but at his core he’s a good person. Willa is the literal best friend (must be in the genes), but we learn that her feelings around pregnancy are not so simple, even, or especially, when it’s Eve’s unplanned one. A number of side characters rounded out the cast in delightful and wonderful ways. Nurse Blank, I’m looking at you!

Lastly, the writing was great. I’d listened to a few of Cara Bastone’s charming made-for-Audible novellas, so I was prepared for the lightness and humor. I thought that maybe she didn’t write open-door because of those, but she certainly let loose here. Also, I appreciated the complexity of everyone’s roles and the lack of saccharine sweetness.

I’m so glad I decided to give this book a chance despite the trope. I’m still not going to reach for every surprise pregnancy romance out there, but with a trusted recommendation, I won’t shy away from another.

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