A review by savvyrosereads
Ready or Not by Cara Bastone

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

Eve unexpectedly becomes pregnant after a one night stand, leading to tension with her best friend and a surprise attraction with said best friend’s brother.

I should start by saying that I rarely read the surprise pregnancy trope, I never particularly expect to enjoy the surprise pregnancy trope, and I read this only because I needed that exact trope for a book bingo I was completing. I recognize that’s not the ideal mindset to go into a book with, and I think if you’re a fan of this trope (or even just more open to it) you may really enjoy this one!

I spent most of this book frustrated with Eve and her decision making (or lack thereof), and was a little bit bored in the middle, particularly because this is a VERY slow burn that doesn’t really feel romance-focused at all until the last third or so. That said, I LOVED the MMC Shep, and he was what generally saved and redeemed the book for me, making it a generally enjoyable read (even though not a favorite). In fact, he redeemed it so much that I probably would have given this 4 stars if it wasn’t for the ending, which really really bugged me.

In short, if this sounds good to you, I would recommend it! I know some people who have loved it and I think that those who have been pregnant might particularly get a lot out of it. But, I don’t think I was the ideal target audience for a lot of different reasons, so just an “okay” read for me overall.

CW: Infertility/miscarriage; pregnancy; death of parent; grief

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