Reviews

Ready or Not by Cara Bastone

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hazelleandabook's review against another edition

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

⭐️ 4.5 - I typically don’t gravitate toward the “unexpected pregnancy” trope, especially from a one-night stand, but surprisingly, this was done exceptionally well. There’s no third-act breakup, no miscommunication, no messy or toxic relationship—just great communication and well-developed characters. In my opinion, Shef was the standout (what a guy!), while Ethan’s character growth was genuinely satisfying. The portrayal of pregnancy hormones Eve was experiencing was both hilarious and terrifying, and, most importantly, the baby is deeply loved and welcome into this world. A truly satisfying happy ending! 🥰

ellie_ann's review against another edition

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4.0

I have never finished a book in one sitting. I have always had to sleep, work, be a uni student or just need a break. This book I listened to from midnight to 5:30am because I could not stop.

I was originally concerned because I did not like the first two chapters. I physically read chapter one and it was so real and doctory I got turned off. I knew this was a story I wanted to read so I waited for my library to have the audiobook (I had heard people raving about the audiobook). This audiobook narrator deserves an award because it was one of the best I have ever listened to.

This book played like a movie in my head and I am in love with Shep. This man is truly and angel and the sweetest human. I have a note in my phone swooning over him in this book (and some other notes for my review). I truly cannot express how caring and kind and thoughtful this man is. I am in love.

This was definitely a bit more of a slow burn (you get a bit into the book before things happen) with soooo much pining which is why I refused to stop. I had to see our couple together and then I was OBSESSED. I couldn’t stop. There was no third act break up which I loved.

I smiled and internally laughed (it’s 5:30 I can’t wake my house up) at soooo many things in this book. Eves inner monologue/thoughts were so great.

Ethan was fine. I’m sure if I had more time in between reading sections I would like him more but I’m sooooo team shep that I genuinely wanted to shove him off the page so I could have more Shep content. I am unhealthily in love with Shep. This man in his little moments and love for the baby truly has me gushing (incase you can’t tell) Update: I like Ethan (sorta) and he gave Eve a lot of choice/autonomy (bar is on the floor but still). While he was kinda an ass at some points he also really wanted to be there.

Nurse Louise - I also enjoy you and while I was unsure at first you grew on me. Your support and protectiveness was valued.

Consent: thank you. There is nothing greater in a steamy scene than explicit consent. Even if the characters love each other, have known each other for years - consent is necessary and I really liked how it was included.

The 60-100% of this book wants 5 stars but I don’t feel that with my frustration with Ethan I can do it. Did I have an amazing time yes. But I can’t see myself rereading the first chunk. I really hated that first chapter and Ethan at times (give me more Shep even though we got so much Shep). It’s just got a 5 star feeling so I think I’ve landed on 4/4.25ish

It’s now 5:46am so I must sleep - it’s a great book!

Tropes:
One bed
Accidental pregnancy
No third act breakup
He falls first

jmsw's review against another edition

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hopeful fast-paced

3.75

This book had 2 selling points for me:

No villains, all good normal humans - the many layers of interpersonal conflict come from loss/life which rings true to me.

There isn’t a pointless derailing misunderstanding that separates them to allow tidy resolution, which is the one aspect of most romance novels that I find exhausting.