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Not in the Plan
Free-spirited coffee shop owner meets uptight coffee addict. Is an opposites-attract match brewing… or burning? Crushed under the weight of writer’s block and a looming deadline, Mack escapes from New York to Seattle. She meets Charlie, a beautiful, generous, nearly bankrupt coffee shop owner recovering from heartbreak. For the first time, Mack has a muse. And then Mack starts using Charlie’s private stories in her novel…When a storm traps Mack and Charlie in the coffee shop, they share a mind-bending, knee-shaking kiss. But Charlie is an eternal optimist who sleeps with fairy-lights on, while Mack is an ironing-at-5am worrier who sleeps with… everyone. They could never turn this chemistry into something real, right?And if Charlie finds out what Mack has been doing, turning Charlie’s most intimate secrets into a juicy page-turner, will they even have a chance to try?A swoony, steamy queer romcom perfect for fans of Ashley Herring Blake, Casey McQuiston, and Alexis Hall.
302 pages, Paperback
Published January 3, 2024
About the author
Dana Hawkins
4 books74 followersDana Hawkins is a contemporary romance author of fun and sparkly stories. When not searching the country for the perfect cup of piping hot Americano, she spends her time chasing her kids and rewatching ’90s movies. After living for twenty years in Seattle, she recently trekked back to her hometown in Minnesota. She is a huge romance-genre book nerd and borderline obsessed with happy-ever-afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 262 reviews
December 21, 2023
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
Cute sapphic romance, but I didn’t really connect with the story or the characters.
Charlie and Mack danced around each other for way too long, but after a couple dates it’s super-speed insta-love.
The spice was also a complete tease. Nothing explicit, and all fade to black. Too bad, it seemed very promising, the little snippet I got before they closed the bedroom doors on me.
I wouldn’t have minded the lack of spice too much if the love story was captivating enough, but it just didn’t have any spark.
Nothing wrong with the writing or the book per se, just didn’t hit me like I wanted it to.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- FF
- Writer vs coffee shop owner
- Mentions of parent neglect and alcoholism
- Mentions of parent with cancer
- Mentions of cheating (not between MCs)
Cute sapphic romance, but I didn’t really connect with the story or the characters.
Charlie and Mack danced around each other for way too long, but after a couple dates it’s super-speed insta-love.
The spice was also a complete tease. Nothing explicit, and all fade to black. Too bad, it seemed very promising, the little snippet I got before they closed the bedroom doors on me.
I wouldn’t have minded the lack of spice too much if the love story was captivating enough, but it just didn’t have any spark.
Nothing wrong with the writing or the book per se, just didn’t hit me like I wanted it to.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- FF
- Writer vs coffee shop owner
- Mentions of parent neglect and alcoholism
- Mentions of parent with cancer
- Mentions of cheating (not between MCs)
October 30, 2024
¡Romance y cafecito lesbiano! Conocemos a Charlie y Mac, Charlie es dueña de una cafetería y está superando aún su divorcio y problemas de apego/abandono. Por otro lado, Mac es escritora con bloqueo y nunca se ha enamorado, entonces cuando se conocen, la vida de ambas empieza a agarrar rumbo de nuevo.
La verdad es que el libro es entretenido y palomero, sentí que las protagonistas tenían muy buena química y me gustó mucho como fluyeron y encajaron juntas sin que se viera forzado, creo que eran muy buenos complementos. La historia se lee muy rápido y muy ligeramente, me gustó bastante que fueran adultas las protagonistas, pero sentí que me faltó conocer más a los personajes secundarios y que prácticamente no los desarrollaban. También el libro tiene representación plus/mid size y masc, pero no lo sentí, normalmente vemos un poco más sobre la vida de las protagonistas siendo masc o gordas, pero aquí ni siquiera me quedo claro si esa era la descripción de las protagonistas. Solo me hubiese gustado ver más reflejada la representación.
Creo que es un libro para pasar el rato en donde el amor lo puede todo, se los recomiendo como lectura casual dominguera 0 si les gusta escribir libros y esperan enamorarse mientras escriben uno.
La verdad es que el libro es entretenido y palomero, sentí que las protagonistas tenían muy buena química y me gustó mucho como fluyeron y encajaron juntas sin que se viera forzado, creo que eran muy buenos complementos. La historia se lee muy rápido y muy ligeramente, me gustó bastante que fueran adultas las protagonistas, pero sentí que me faltó conocer más a los personajes secundarios y que prácticamente no los desarrollaban. También el libro tiene representación plus/mid size y masc, pero no lo sentí, normalmente vemos un poco más sobre la vida de las protagonistas siendo masc o gordas, pero aquí ni siquiera me quedo claro si esa era la descripción de las protagonistas. Solo me hubiese gustado ver más reflejada la representación.
Creo que es un libro para pasar el rato en donde el amor lo puede todo, se los recomiendo como lectura casual dominguera 0 si les gusta escribir libros y esperan enamorarse mientras escriben uno.
January 9, 2024
my favorite thing about this book is mack’s characterization. not to get too personal but i related to mack’s life so much, most specifically with her way of coping with her mother’s cancer and her relationship with her parents. actually, mack’s entire family made so much sense to me, considering how young her parents are and what they’ve been through. it felt like i was reading a piece of my life, and while it was heavy at times, it also felt nice being represented that way.
while i’ve praised mack’s characterization, i also hate how she used charlie for her book. that whole plot made me very uncomfortable and for that reason i couldn’t give this book more than 3 stars. although i really enjoyed their relationship and mostly the friendship they built, it still felt too tense for me to fully enjoy.
thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc. this is an honest review based on my own opinions.
while i’ve praised mack’s characterization, i also hate how she used charlie for her book. that whole plot made me very uncomfortable and for that reason i couldn’t give this book more than 3 stars. although i really enjoyed their relationship and mostly the friendship they built, it still felt too tense for me to fully enjoy.
thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc. this is an honest review based on my own opinions.
December 30, 2023
As an avid caffeine enthusiast, I'm delighted that my beloved elixir brought numerous smiles while exploring the pages of this book!
Charlie, the remarkably sweet, cheerful, and outgoing café owner, exudes joy despite facing adversity in her life. In contrast, Mack is the epitome of opposites, harboring a dislike for people and preferring the solitude of writing at home. Faced with a bout of writer's block, Mack seeks refuge in Seattle at her parents' home, where she unexpectedly encounters Charlie, altering her world in ways she never anticipated. The magnetic attraction between them is undeniable, like the force of gravity leaving them with no choice but to be drawn together.
The narrative unfolds gradually, introducing a cast of likable characters, including supportive friends and endearing parents. What starts as a charming connection evolves into something beautiful and sensually charged. The writing is both beautiful and captivating, weaving a super sweet romantic love story. The originality in naming each chapter adds a unique touch to this delightful tale.
Charlie, the remarkably sweet, cheerful, and outgoing café owner, exudes joy despite facing adversity in her life. In contrast, Mack is the epitome of opposites, harboring a dislike for people and preferring the solitude of writing at home. Faced with a bout of writer's block, Mack seeks refuge in Seattle at her parents' home, where she unexpectedly encounters Charlie, altering her world in ways she never anticipated. The magnetic attraction between them is undeniable, like the force of gravity leaving them with no choice but to be drawn together.
The narrative unfolds gradually, introducing a cast of likable characters, including supportive friends and endearing parents. What starts as a charming connection evolves into something beautiful and sensually charged. The writing is both beautiful and captivating, weaving a super sweet romantic love story. The originality in naming each chapter adds a unique touch to this delightful tale.
June 7, 2024
Both characters are touching and complement each other well. Charlie is a coffee shop owner, so she is at ease with people. Her past is heartbreaking, and seeing her accomplishments and working on herself is touching. Mack is an introvert; she likes the company of her words more than anything, and a one-night stand is all she has to offer. Charlie has no one except her best friend, and Mack has overbearing but really endearing parents.
They both have issues with money or work pressure that were well-written because I was anxious with them. The characters’ growth and development were well-written and balanced between the characters.
The fact that Mack is using Charlie as a muse brings the touch of angst we need.Unfortunately, I didn’t manage to connect deeply with the characters. The internal musings from the characters were a bit too present for my taste, sometimes repetitively. I wish there were a bit more actual scenes or dialogues. It prevented me from being totally hooked. It’s a matter of personal taste.
But overall, it’s a sweet story with endearing characters and it’s really easy to read.
They both have issues with money or work pressure that were well-written because I was anxious with them. The characters’ growth and development were well-written and balanced between the characters.
The fact that Mack is using Charlie as a muse brings the touch of angst we need.Unfortunately, I didn’t manage to connect deeply with the characters. The internal musings from the characters were a bit too present for my taste, sometimes repetitively. I wish there were a bit more actual scenes or dialogues. It prevented me from being totally hooked. It’s a matter of personal taste.
But overall, it’s a sweet story with endearing characters and it’s really easy to read.
January 16, 2024
Not in the Plan by Dana Hawkins is a sweet yet poignant romcom that I very much enjoyed. It’s well written and easy to read, and the author does a great job of making you feel like you’re in Seattle sipping a coffee along with them.
One of my favorite parts of this book, besides the dazzling chemistry and sweet moments between Charlie and Mack, is the journey each character takes. They are both flawed women, and when the inevitable third act break-up happens, it makes sense within the story, as does the resolution and ending of the book.
This book is perfect for anyone looking for a well written and sweet love story and likes a little angst thrown in at the end to make that HEA even sweeter. Bonus points for Mack’s adorable parents and the fun chapter titles. Dana Hawkins has officially been added to my authors list!
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
One of my favorite parts of this book, besides the dazzling chemistry and sweet moments between Charlie and Mack, is the journey each character takes. They are both flawed women, and when the inevitable third act break-up happens, it makes sense within the story, as does the resolution and ending of the book.
This book is perfect for anyone looking for a well written and sweet love story and likes a little angst thrown in at the end to make that HEA even sweeter. Bonus points for Mack’s adorable parents and the fun chapter titles. Dana Hawkins has officially been added to my authors list!
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2024
This is really not the rating that I thought I would be giving this book when I first started it. It seemed so cute, and it passed all of my early DNF tests. And I mean, please keep in mind this is a purely subjective rating. This is one of those things where I could definitely see someone loving the book for the same reasons that it kind of irritated me. It's definitely not bad. But clearly, I didn't really have the best time with it.
Mack is an author suffering from writer's block as she tries to get through her sophomore book, which she's already way behind on. Charlie is a coffee shop owner whose little business is doing really badly. They meet when Mack is in town visiting her parents, and starts frequenting Charlie's shop to write. Soon, Charlie becomes her muse, and she uses tidbits from their burgeoning friendship to kickstart ideas and plots for her book. And slowly, they start falling for each other.
Cut for length and also spoilers.
Pretty sure there were other things that I disliked or that didn't work for me, but I'm also pretty sure that they were all subjective. The things in this book that I didn't care for will probably be someone else's favourite part of it. And I DID like some stuff about it. Mack's father was really funny, and all the early flirtation was really cute. I always like trying out new authors, so, yay for doing that. This just wasn't all I wanted it to be.
Mack is an author suffering from writer's block as she tries to get through her sophomore book, which she's already way behind on. Charlie is a coffee shop owner whose little business is doing really badly. They meet when Mack is in town visiting her parents, and starts frequenting Charlie's shop to write. Soon, Charlie becomes her muse, and she uses tidbits from their burgeoning friendship to kickstart ideas and plots for her book. And slowly, they start falling for each other.
Cut for length and also spoilers.
Pretty sure there were other things that I disliked or that didn't work for me, but I'm also pretty sure that they were all subjective. The things in this book that I didn't care for will probably be someone else's favourite part of it. And I DID like some stuff about it. Mack's father was really funny, and all the early flirtation was really cute. I always like trying out new authors, so, yay for doing that. This just wasn't all I wanted it to be.
March 26, 2024
Queer coffee shop owner + a queer writer fighting writer's block in Seattle?! UMMM YES PLEASE!! I loved this book. I'm honestly so impressed that this is this author's debut novel. This is a wonderful opposites attract, slow burn, sapphic rom-com.
I listened to this audiobook and LOVED it. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life. Her performance was absolutely stellar. I think the pairing of this story and the narrator was just superb!
Charlie is building a life and business serving delicious beverages at her cute coffee shop after a divorce from her ex-wife. When Mack stumbles into Charlie's coffee shop trying to find her way out of writer's block to meet a deadline for her next book, she's is immediately drawn to the cute, quirky, red-headed owner.
Charlie and Mack have such great chemistry. Right off the bat, I was rooting for these two. While both of these women are navigating their past secrets, they offer each other a spark of light in their journey. There's so much about this book that kept me turning the pages- I loved the chapter headings - the fun coffee drinks kept me smiling throughout the book. The cast of lovable family (both blood and found) characters were just so endearing. I adored Mack's dad - his banter had me laughing out loud. Ben was just the most wonderful bestie a girl could ask for. I loved that these two characters had such great community and love surrounding them. I really loved how these two characters complimented each other's personalities. They just fit like two perfect puzzle pieces. I really enjoyed how Hawkins illustrated these characters healing themselves through their connection with each other and their loved ones around them. I think Hawkins did a wonderful job showing how even though people may come from different backgrounds, everyone is battling something from the past - something we might not like about ourselves - and that leaning into the people who love you can lead to healing hurts that have been carried under the surface.
I'm very excited for the next Dana Hawkins novel. I really enjoyed her writing and I can't wait to read more from this author!
I listened to this audiobook and LOVED it. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life. Her performance was absolutely stellar. I think the pairing of this story and the narrator was just superb!
Charlie is building a life and business serving delicious beverages at her cute coffee shop after a divorce from her ex-wife. When Mack stumbles into Charlie's coffee shop trying to find her way out of writer's block to meet a deadline for her next book, she's is immediately drawn to the cute, quirky, red-headed owner.
Charlie and Mack have such great chemistry. Right off the bat, I was rooting for these two. While both of these women are navigating their past secrets, they offer each other a spark of light in their journey. There's so much about this book that kept me turning the pages- I loved the chapter headings - the fun coffee drinks kept me smiling throughout the book. The cast of lovable family (both blood and found) characters were just so endearing. I adored Mack's dad - his banter had me laughing out loud. Ben was just the most wonderful bestie a girl could ask for. I loved that these two characters had such great community and love surrounding them. I really loved how these two characters complimented each other's personalities. They just fit like two perfect puzzle pieces. I really enjoyed how Hawkins illustrated these characters healing themselves through their connection with each other and their loved ones around them. I think Hawkins did a wonderful job showing how even though people may come from different backgrounds, everyone is battling something from the past - something we might not like about ourselves - and that leaning into the people who love you can lead to healing hurts that have been carried under the surface.
I'm very excited for the next Dana Hawkins novel. I really enjoyed her writing and I can't wait to read more from this author!
January 22, 2024
I absolutely adored this debut sapphic love story from Dana Hawkins. Being a former barista and currently living in Seattle, I related to Charlie from the first page. From her love of tattoos to her hatred of complicated, contradictory coffee orders, her personality reminded me of myself. Charlie was a character I was rooting for throughout the whole story.
Mack, on the other hand, was downright adorable, I loved how her chapters were written with a clean writer's touch, her narration poignant and filled with vivid, colourful descriptions. Her creativity showed through the page and it was fascinating to step into her head and see how she viewed the world as a writer desperate for inspiration. From the moment she walked into Charlie's coffee shop, I wanted them to get together thanks to the sheer juxtaposition of their two characters. They complement each other perfectly, which I adored about this book.
Fair warning, this book is a slow burn. At times I was biting my nails waiting for either Mack or Charlie to finally work up the courage to confess their feelings. At other times, I was relishing in the anticipation of them getting together, and savouring the cute moments when their relationship was budding, I adored the way they danced around each other, but I know that type of romance book is not for everybody.
This book also has a third-act breakup that you can see coming from a mile away that honestly the book could have done without. The ephemeral angst felt very inconsequential and rushed to me. As a lover of Ali Hazelwood, I am used to the third-act breakup, but this one could have been written better.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Four out of five stars.
Mack, on the other hand, was downright adorable, I loved how her chapters were written with a clean writer's touch, her narration poignant and filled with vivid, colourful descriptions. Her creativity showed through the page and it was fascinating to step into her head and see how she viewed the world as a writer desperate for inspiration. From the moment she walked into Charlie's coffee shop, I wanted them to get together thanks to the sheer juxtaposition of their two characters. They complement each other perfectly, which I adored about this book.
Fair warning, this book is a slow burn. At times I was biting my nails waiting for either Mack or Charlie to finally work up the courage to confess their feelings. At other times, I was relishing in the anticipation of them getting together, and savouring the cute moments when their relationship was budding, I adored the way they danced around each other, but I know that type of romance book is not for everybody.
This book also has a third-act breakup that you can see coming from a mile away that honestly the book could have done without. The ephemeral angst felt very inconsequential and rushed to me. As a lover of Ali Hazelwood, I am used to the third-act breakup, but this one could have been written better.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Four out of five stars.
February 9, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It was an okay book but ultimately I had too many issues with it to give it 3 Stars.
The characters lacked depth and it didn’t help that they also overcame their issues way too quickly. Charlie stopped being anxiously attached after like a day. The main conflict was also resolved so quickly and felt too easy. The whole inspiration aspect felt overall very silly, like Mack just put Charlie’s stories word for word into her manuscript? Without changing anything? Instead of changing some aspects? And the ‘inspiration’ that Mack got from Charlie was so weird?? wdym she couldn’t come up with “child is scared of thunderstorms” on her own?
There were too many descriptions within one sentence and every time one adjective would have been enough since the other descriptors didn’t add any new aspects, they were just repetitions. Both main characters also had the same voice as the narrator, which didn’t help the lack of depth. But apart from that the writing was fine.
The lack of visual distinction between the novel itself and Mack's novel was very confusing since it switched mid chapter.
Overall I think that I just dislike books with characters who are authors and constantly talk/think about writing, I just tend to find them cringey.
If you do not care about all those aspects I mentioned earlier, this might be a fun read for you!
January 20, 2024
This book is definitely meant to be read sitting in the window of your favorite coffee shop sipping your favorite beverage!
I really enjoyed this meet-cute romance. Very minimal in the spice but made up for in the true emotions you saw from both Mack and Charlie thanks to the dual POV writing style. Very minimal on the spice and a little slow then fast on the romance speed but all together a great read I would recommend!
Thank you again to NetGalley for the ARC!!!
I really enjoyed this meet-cute romance. Very minimal in the spice but made up for in the true emotions you saw from both Mack and Charlie thanks to the dual POV writing style. Very minimal on the spice and a little slow then fast on the romance speed but all together a great read I would recommend!
Thank you again to NetGalley for the ARC!!!
January 23, 2024
Not in the Plan was overall a good novel and an enjoyable read. It was cute and heartwarming while also taking on some more serious topics at the same time. The greatest strength of this novel was its characters, whereas it fell somewhat short on the plot. I think that different people will have varying responses to it depending on their preferences in a novel, but also that it was overall good enough that I would recommend it to anyone.
Mack: an award-winning novelist with writer’s block, anxiety, and desperate motivation to finish her next novel. Charlie: a hopeless romantic with a lot of heartbreak and a failing coffee shop. Both have family issues, imminent trouble from external sources, and a strong attraction to each other from the second they cross paths. They quickly hit it off and Mack finds her muse; unfortunately, Charlie doesn’t know that her life experiences are being used to fuel Mack’s novel and if she did she wouldn’t be happy.
The Good:
-Characters. This is where this novel stood out for sure, so if you are a character person then you will like this. Each character was well developed and had a rich background, and you could understand their motivations for their actions. They both had solid character arcs individually, as well as their combined arc with the romance plotline. The romance was well done and I liked seeing how both characters supported and helped each other in their own ways.
-Chapter titles. This is an unusual thing for me to compliment but the way each chapter was titled with a specialty beverage that hinted at what the chapter contained was both very fun and effectively used in the novel. A+
-This novel gave great depictions of how parents expectations, issues, and parenting styles can affect their children and the people that they grow up to be. This was especially true with regards to parents with addictions. I think that this was well done; it not only greatly helped to establish and flesh-out the main characters, but also provided some insightful representation for these types of mental health issues/challenges.
-I personally thing this novel did a good job of depicting anxiety from an internal perspective. Anxiety can manifest in numerous ways and this novel was a good representation.
The Not-as-Good-but-it-wasn’t-so-bad:
-The conflicts in this novel were all resolved too easily, particularly with how much focus and angst was put on them leading up to their resolutions. This made for a weaker plot in my opinion. The resolution should be somewhat equivalent to the issue, with how much time and energy was spent on it, and in this case the easy resolutions made the story feel anticlimactic.
-The ending was rushed. It was also too easy as stated above. This wasn’t near enough to ruin the novel but it did fall a little flat.
-If you don’t like a story where one character is keeping a secret/lie from the other, then this novel is not for you. This is a commonly disliked trope so fair warning!
Thank you to NetGallery for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Mack: an award-winning novelist with writer’s block, anxiety, and desperate motivation to finish her next novel. Charlie: a hopeless romantic with a lot of heartbreak and a failing coffee shop. Both have family issues, imminent trouble from external sources, and a strong attraction to each other from the second they cross paths. They quickly hit it off and Mack finds her muse; unfortunately, Charlie doesn’t know that her life experiences are being used to fuel Mack’s novel and if she did she wouldn’t be happy.
The Good:
-Characters. This is where this novel stood out for sure, so if you are a character person then you will like this. Each character was well developed and had a rich background, and you could understand their motivations for their actions. They both had solid character arcs individually, as well as their combined arc with the romance plotline. The romance was well done and I liked seeing how both characters supported and helped each other in their own ways.
-Chapter titles. This is an unusual thing for me to compliment but the way each chapter was titled with a specialty beverage that hinted at what the chapter contained was both very fun and effectively used in the novel. A+
-This novel gave great depictions of how parents expectations, issues, and parenting styles can affect their children and the people that they grow up to be. This was especially true with regards to parents with addictions. I think that this was well done; it not only greatly helped to establish and flesh-out the main characters, but also provided some insightful representation for these types of mental health issues/challenges.
-I personally thing this novel did a good job of depicting anxiety from an internal perspective. Anxiety can manifest in numerous ways and this novel was a good representation.
The Not-as-Good-but-it-wasn’t-so-bad:
-The conflicts in this novel were all resolved too easily, particularly with how much focus and angst was put on them leading up to their resolutions. This made for a weaker plot in my opinion. The resolution should be somewhat equivalent to the issue, with how much time and energy was spent on it, and in this case the easy resolutions made the story feel anticlimactic.
-The ending was rushed. It was also too easy as stated above. This wasn’t near enough to ruin the novel but it did fall a little flat.
-If you don’t like a story where one character is keeping a secret/lie from the other, then this novel is not for you. This is a commonly disliked trope so fair warning!
Thank you to NetGallery for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2024
OK y'all, so, if you follow me, you'll know that I'm a BIT of a coffee fan (understatement). So when I saw a @pridebooktours sign up for a romance book about a coffee, I was IMMEDIATELY like "sign me up"! Not in the Plan by @d.hawkinsauthor primarily takes place in a Sugar Mugs coffee shop between Charlie, the free spirited owner, and Mack, a thriller writer who inadvertently uses Charlie as her muse... until things get complicated when she starts to fall for her. Though there's a little bit of angst and conflict, it's mostly a fun, self-contained story that I really loved!
Oh gosh y'all, the opposites attract vibes were perfectly executed in this book. While I would think that colorful and somewhat disorganized Charlie would drive someone like uptight Mack completely wild, she ends up being incredibly inspiring to her. And though I didn't love that Mack used Charlie's life and personality without asking, I was so thrilled by the level of enthusiastic positive consent everywhere else in the book. Both women are standoffish about relationships - Charlie because she is still trying to get over her divorce and Mack because she worries commitment will stifle her creativity. But it becomes clear pretty quickly that their chemistry cannot be ignored, even as they try to just be friends. And of course the coffee shop vibes are🤌🏼🤌🏼- I loved all the scenes at Sugar Mugs, and I think my coffee snob husband would actually approve of Mack's coffee order 😎.
I'm so grateful to Pride Book Tours and Dana Hawkins for the opportunity to read Not In the Plan! Such a fun, relatable romance with tons of character development, a little bit of angst, and a lot of heartfelt moments. It's out now, don't miss out!
Oh gosh y'all, the opposites attract vibes were perfectly executed in this book. While I would think that colorful and somewhat disorganized Charlie would drive someone like uptight Mack completely wild, she ends up being incredibly inspiring to her. And though I didn't love that Mack used Charlie's life and personality without asking, I was so thrilled by the level of enthusiastic positive consent everywhere else in the book. Both women are standoffish about relationships - Charlie because she is still trying to get over her divorce and Mack because she worries commitment will stifle her creativity. But it becomes clear pretty quickly that their chemistry cannot be ignored, even as they try to just be friends. And of course the coffee shop vibes are🤌🏼🤌🏼- I loved all the scenes at Sugar Mugs, and I think my coffee snob husband would actually approve of Mack's coffee order 😎.
I'm so grateful to Pride Book Tours and Dana Hawkins for the opportunity to read Not In the Plan! Such a fun, relatable romance with tons of character development, a little bit of angst, and a lot of heartfelt moments. It's out now, don't miss out!
January 3, 2024
୭̥⋆*｡ ✦ Not in the plan review ✦
❝Words are my best friend and worst tormentor.❞
The book is about Charlie, a queer-friendly coffeeshop owner, and Mack, who just flew to Seattle hoping to get rid of her writer block.
In the very first pages we read about Mack, an anxious, self-conscious girl who started her day not in the best of ways; as she’s trying to figure out what to do and how to calm down for a while, she notices a rainbow flag outside Sugar Mugs, Charlie’s shop.
❝She was the school kid whose words formed quickly in her head but not on her tongue. She'd avoided most adolescent interactions, eating in the library instead of the cafeteria and burying her nose in a book during recess.❞
She quickly decides to enter and she feels joyful at the sight of a warm place full of books and plants. Then, a stunning red haired freckled girl catches her eye. Mack orders her first drink to Charlie who’s mesmerized by this new customer’s accent, voice and dimples.
The story follows the two women slowly getting to know each other, discovering the other’s truths and secrets.
One will learn how to trust someone, besides her best friend, again. The other will learn what being in love means for the very first time in her life.
❝Charlie was a circumference of joy and light that somehow beamed energy into Mack, rather than taking it away.❞
Each chapter has a different drink name, which I find adorable and original, as well as coherent to the main location of the events narrated.
❝Charlie and Ben were the type of people she needed in her life — ones that helped her forget she was buried in a coffin of indecisions and self-doubt.❞
I liked the book, the plot was nothing too out of the ordinary nor boring. It was a sweet novel to read in the comfort of my bed. However it must be said that I, like many others, couldn’t completely connect to the characters although I did enjoy them and their introspection, quite well developed.
I wish we got to read more about Ben and Vivienne but I guess this would be too much to ask for in such a short book focused on the main couple.
I would like to thank Netgalley for sending me the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
pre-review
me reading a book with this kind of cover?
that surely is something new
Yess, I finally got my second arc ever
❝Words are my best friend and worst tormentor.❞
The book is about Charlie, a queer-friendly coffeeshop owner, and Mack, who just flew to Seattle hoping to get rid of her writer block.
In the very first pages we read about Mack, an anxious, self-conscious girl who started her day not in the best of ways; as she’s trying to figure out what to do and how to calm down for a while, she notices a rainbow flag outside Sugar Mugs, Charlie’s shop.
❝She was the school kid whose words formed quickly in her head but not on her tongue. She'd avoided most adolescent interactions, eating in the library instead of the cafeteria and burying her nose in a book during recess.❞
She quickly decides to enter and she feels joyful at the sight of a warm place full of books and plants. Then, a stunning red haired freckled girl catches her eye. Mack orders her first drink to Charlie who’s mesmerized by this new customer’s accent, voice and dimples.
The story follows the two women slowly getting to know each other, discovering the other’s truths and secrets.
One will learn how to trust someone, besides her best friend, again. The other will learn what being in love means for the very first time in her life.
❝Charlie was a circumference of joy and light that somehow beamed energy into Mack, rather than taking it away.❞
Each chapter has a different drink name, which I find adorable and original, as well as coherent to the main location of the events narrated.
❝Charlie and Ben were the type of people she needed in her life — ones that helped her forget she was buried in a coffin of indecisions and self-doubt.❞
I liked the book, the plot was nothing too out of the ordinary nor boring. It was a sweet novel to read in the comfort of my bed. However it must be said that I, like many others, couldn’t completely connect to the characters although I did enjoy them and their introspection, quite well developed.
I wish we got to read more about Ben and Vivienne but I guess this would be too much to ask for in such a short book focused on the main couple.
I would like to thank Netgalley for sending me the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
pre-review
me reading a book with this kind of cover?
that surely is something new
Yess, I finally got my second arc ever
February 2, 2024
Combining coffee, writing, and romance is a winning combination.
I loved the characters in this story. Charlie as the carefree spirit who is definitely not feeling too carefree at the moment. Mack with her writers block and guilt weighing on her. Mack’s parents who are so supportive.
Just a wonderfully well written romance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the characters in this story. Charlie as the carefree spirit who is definitely not feeling too carefree at the moment. Mack with her writers block and guilt weighing on her. Mack’s parents who are so supportive.
Just a wonderfully well written romance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 23, 2024
Not sure: I read number 2 first which I really enjoyed whilst this one dragged a bit in the middle. Found the characters less convincing. Borderline 4*.
January 3, 2024
Return flight read 2 was a pleasant surprise because it was easy like Sunday morning. I thought I was gonna get mad while reading this because of the synopsis about stolen stories, but I got ahead of myself. This was a simple story that continues a long love of sapphic romance.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing an eARC for a honest review.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing an eARC for a honest review.
February 5, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
☕🧁📖👩💻☂️
Not In the Plan is a cute New Adult Sapphic Romcom about a cafe owner, Charlie, and an author, Mack who meet because Mack finds Charlie's cafe because she got lost when driving around Seattle. Because of the meet-cute, Mack, who was having writer's block, now has inspiration again. Charlie, who is going through some money issues and still struggling with trust after her divorce from her ex-wife, is suddenly finding that she likes this new customer more and more, and the feelings go far beyond that of just a customer.
Both women are going through their issues - Mack, having just come back to visit her parents after a year is feeling guilty for both avoiding her mum with her being sick with cancer, but also struggling with the fact that she has to write this book that she's already spent the advance on. She has a secret she can't tell her parents, which eats away at her. Things start to get a little easier the more she spends with Charlie, but when she realizes that Charlie would hate the one thing that Mack is doing, she doesn't know what to do.
Charlie is struggling with money and keeping her business afloat. She has to pay back contractors and keeps getting phone calls, mail, and emails about final notices. She started her business on her own, and she has a great best friend, Ben, who supports her, but it isn't until a storm hits that Mack decides to get her dad to help and things get easier for her.
The relationship between these two is beyond cute. They both have their quirks, but you definitely can tell that they will learn from each other and grow together no matter what. I absolutely loved how everything played out between them, I just wished Mack had told her rather than having to find out, but at least the letter made up for it all.
This book felt real, with real emotions, fears, and struggles. I loved how there was another story in the book as well, with Mack's book. I would read the heck out of that. I loved Mack's parents, absolutely supportive and hilarious and so cool. I loved the fact that they were teen parents, and they were written to be successful and full of life and love.
Loved this debut. I can't wait to read more from Dana Hawkins.
Thanks to Storm publishing and NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
🌶️🌶️
☕🧁📖👩💻☂️
Not In the Plan is a cute New Adult Sapphic Romcom about a cafe owner, Charlie, and an author, Mack who meet because Mack finds Charlie's cafe because she got lost when driving around Seattle. Because of the meet-cute, Mack, who was having writer's block, now has inspiration again. Charlie, who is going through some money issues and still struggling with trust after her divorce from her ex-wife, is suddenly finding that she likes this new customer more and more, and the feelings go far beyond that of just a customer.
Both women are going through their issues - Mack, having just come back to visit her parents after a year is feeling guilty for both avoiding her mum with her being sick with cancer, but also struggling with the fact that she has to write this book that she's already spent the advance on. She has a secret she can't tell her parents, which eats away at her. Things start to get a little easier the more she spends with Charlie, but when she realizes that Charlie would hate the one thing that Mack is doing, she doesn't know what to do.
Charlie is struggling with money and keeping her business afloat. She has to pay back contractors and keeps getting phone calls, mail, and emails about final notices. She started her business on her own, and she has a great best friend, Ben, who supports her, but it isn't until a storm hits that Mack decides to get her dad to help and things get easier for her.
The relationship between these two is beyond cute. They both have their quirks, but you definitely can tell that they will learn from each other and grow together no matter what. I absolutely loved how everything played out between them, I just wished Mack had told her rather than having to find out, but at least the letter made up for it all.
This book felt real, with real emotions, fears, and struggles. I loved how there was another story in the book as well, with Mack's book. I would read the heck out of that. I loved Mack's parents, absolutely supportive and hilarious and so cool. I loved the fact that they were teen parents, and they were written to be successful and full of life and love.
Loved this debut. I can't wait to read more from Dana Hawkins.
Thanks to Storm publishing and NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
April 5, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised with Not in the Plan, and really enjoyed listening to this audiobook.
Although pegged as a queer coffee shop romance, there is a lot of depth within including the complexities of owning a business, a sick loved one and writers block. Dana Hawkins makes an impressive debut, painting the slow-burning love story of Charlie, a spirited coffee shop owner rebuilding her life post-divorce, and Mack, a writer wrestling with a daunting bout of writer's block. Their unexpected journey from acquaintances to lovers is filled with moments of introspection, humour, and genuine connection, making for a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I loved the memorable cast of supporting characters too as they all enriched the story with their diverse experiences and perspectives. The dual narrative voice adds a rich layer to the storytelling, allowing readers to intimately understand both protagonists' inner worlds and the fears and hopes that drive them.
As the story unfolds, Hawkins balances the lighthearted moments with the challenges each character faces, creating a dynamic and engaging storyline that resonates with authenticity and heart.
A great read and I definitely recommend the audiobook - Elise Roth did a great job at narrating this story.
Although pegged as a queer coffee shop romance, there is a lot of depth within including the complexities of owning a business, a sick loved one and writers block. Dana Hawkins makes an impressive debut, painting the slow-burning love story of Charlie, a spirited coffee shop owner rebuilding her life post-divorce, and Mack, a writer wrestling with a daunting bout of writer's block. Their unexpected journey from acquaintances to lovers is filled with moments of introspection, humour, and genuine connection, making for a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I loved the memorable cast of supporting characters too as they all enriched the story with their diverse experiences and perspectives. The dual narrative voice adds a rich layer to the storytelling, allowing readers to intimately understand both protagonists' inner worlds and the fears and hopes that drive them.
As the story unfolds, Hawkins balances the lighthearted moments with the challenges each character faces, creating a dynamic and engaging storyline that resonates with authenticity and heart.
A great read and I definitely recommend the audiobook - Elise Roth did a great job at narrating this story.
January 5, 2024
Fantastic romance! Really enjoyed the love story and the character development, I found myself rooting for them straight away and wanting to know more about all of them. They were funny and sweet and the descriptions gave you just enough to leave something to the imagination. I loved the way that each chapter started with a drink and how it was all very linked to the coffee shop. My only qualm is would be the fact that the over charge on the work seems a bit of an easy exit and how did she not question it?! But I guess that is the whole point of it. Over all a very enjoyable love story and would definitely recommend
January 6, 2024
*I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I feel lucky to have read this early I really liked it. It was a masterclass in showing not telling. The romance was meet-cute to swoon worthy. The spice was more teasing but I think I preferred it to overly explicit. I didn’t like that they said ‘I love you’ after a month but all in all it was a great read.
Best enjoyed with a cup of coffee! ☕️
I feel lucky to have read this early I really liked it. It was a masterclass in showing not telling. The romance was meet-cute to swoon worthy. The spice was more teasing but I think I preferred it to overly explicit. I didn’t like that they said ‘I love you’ after a month but all in all it was a great read.
Best enjoyed with a cup of coffee! ☕️
December 27, 2023
This was a fantastic cozy queer romance. The characters were lovable even if they did not always make the right decisions (perhaps that made them more real)! The characters flaws and different personalities were well developed in most ways and I loved their love but do wish they got their a little faster (maybe that’s a me thing)!
I loved how each chapter had a special coffee drink associated with it. It was a fun little element that linked with the setting of the novel.
It was a quick read and I would love to have had more details in some parts of the book and spent more time with Mack’s parents. I did guess some of the “twists” and “surprises” that came up but that didn’t take away from how enjoyable the book was.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of Not In The Plan
I loved how each chapter had a special coffee drink associated with it. It was a fun little element that linked with the setting of the novel.
It was a quick read and I would love to have had more details in some parts of the book and spent more time with Mack’s parents. I did guess some of the “twists” and “surprises” that came up but that didn’t take away from how enjoyable the book was.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of Not In The Plan
August 28, 2024
A cute coffee shop romance with queer women?? Absolutely yes please! I really liked this book, the charters felt so real and I thought the opposite vibes of the characters family was a super interesting way to show how people go through such different things sometimes. Mack’s parents were so freakin cute tho and I really annoyed their love for their daughter! I do always find stories about authors so funny for some reason. I would recommend if you find cute coffee romances fun!
December 24, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for sending me an arc of this book.
2.5 stars. I think this book wasn't made for me. Following the story of Charlie and Mack was entertaining, but I did not connect with any of the characters as I was reading. While I did not enjoy the writing as much as I thought I would, I liked how the characters weren't created only to be one-dimensional (even when it comes to the side characters). Overall, it was a cute romance that was appreciated during Christmas week.
2.5 stars. I think this book wasn't made for me. Following the story of Charlie and Mack was entertaining, but I did not connect with any of the characters as I was reading. While I did not enjoy the writing as much as I thought I would, I liked how the characters weren't created only to be one-dimensional (even when it comes to the side characters). Overall, it was a cute romance that was appreciated during Christmas week.
January 18, 2024
Mack is a NYT best selling author with her debut book. But now she is suffering writer's block and has a hard deadline to deliver a second novel. Seeking comfort and a change she goes to stay with her parents in Seattle. She meets cheerful, cute, coffee shop owner Charlie, who is curvy, inked and beautiful. Her writing is inspired by Charlie’s funny work stories and harder personal life experiences. Charlie has a few issues of her own, the biggest being her coffee shop is failing.
But the pair go from being friendly to instant feelings very quickly. Using the L word so early is cliche even for a f/f romance. And I thought there was an imbalance in sharing in the relationship. Charlie was opening herself up a lot while the reader knew things about Mack that she didn’t in return share with Charlie. For example Mack is cutting contact with past flings but Charlie isn’t aware of that. I did like Mack’s young parents as side characters and her relationship with them.
This is a cute story with minimal angst. Although I would have preferred a few more dates and getting to know you moments this is easy to read and there are no big negatives. A solid debut novel and I will watch for more from the author. Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)
But the pair go from being friendly to instant feelings very quickly. Using the L word so early is cliche even for a f/f romance. And I thought there was an imbalance in sharing in the relationship. Charlie was opening herself up a lot while the reader knew things about Mack that she didn’t in return share with Charlie. For example Mack is cutting contact with past flings but Charlie isn’t aware of that. I did like Mack’s young parents as side characters and her relationship with them.
This is a cute story with minimal angst. Although I would have preferred a few more dates and getting to know you moments this is easy to read and there are no big negatives. A solid debut novel and I will watch for more from the author. Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)
February 11, 2024
The romance in this book was as steamy and sweet as a fresh brewed vanilla latte with whipped cream on top. Charlie and Mack seemingly couldn’t have been more different, but when bestselling author Mack wandered into Charlie’s coffee shop desperate for inspiration to write her newest book, she found Charlie to be just the muse she had been needing to break through her writer’s block and give life to her story. After both women felt an immediate connection, they found that their differences maybe were just what they needed to fill what was missing in each other’s lives as their own story unfolded.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and could hardly put it down, but my only critical critique was that it felt a little awkward and confusing when the writing switched between the narration of the IRL book and the narration of Mack's book because there is no formatting difference or quotations.
I think Dana Hawkins captured the very different and complex personalities and lives of each of the characters very well. She was able to address difficult subjects including mental health struggles, financial instability, cancer, and addiction in way that was graceful and respectful but also was able to keep the story lighthearted, witty, and very relatable.
Thank you to Dana Hawkins, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for sending “Not in the Plan” to me as an ARC. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and could hardly put it down, but my only critical critique was that it felt a little awkward and confusing when the writing switched between the narration of the IRL book and the narration of Mack's book because there is no formatting difference or quotations.
I think Dana Hawkins captured the very different and complex personalities and lives of each of the characters very well. She was able to address difficult subjects including mental health struggles, financial instability, cancer, and addiction in way that was graceful and respectful but also was able to keep the story lighthearted, witty, and very relatable.
Thank you to Dana Hawkins, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for sending “Not in the Plan” to me as an ARC. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
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January 31, 2024
Honestly, I don't feel that connected with the characters. Yes, there were some funny, sweet, and cute moments but they pass for me really quickly and don't stick with me that much.
Mack
Hmmm, I don't really know what to feel about her. Undercut, white shirt, jeans...lol, that's my type. But still, I find her character a bit... uninteresting in a way. I don't feel like she really understands the depth of her mistake, that level of betrayal. Using someone else's pain for their own benefit is just a huge no no. I just hate the way she thinks.
Charlie
I love her character development but she forgave Mack too easily, in my opinion. She was betrayed by a person she loves. It took her years to forgive her father and move on from her ex wife (both betrayed her) but it only took 2 days for Mack and they've only known each other for like...a month? She literally used her personal life in a story.
Nonetheless, I still liked both of them. The characters are interesting in their own way (if I look beyond the areas that I didn't like about them). I think, as a reader, I was meant to feel disappointed with Mack for doing that so I could sympathize with Charlie (I did, somehow...until she forgave her waaaaaay to quickly). Mack should have begged. 🙄 Anyway, characters are a 6/10 for me.
Pacing of the story
The beginning was okay... that's about 1/3 of the book
Then around 2/3 it felt a bit slow
On the last part, it felt really rushed. Even the chapters got shorter. Usually, I have no problem with that but here, it felt like chapters were instantly cut just so the story would move forward at a quicker pace and get on to the next point. This is the part where the main idea of the story was just coming in: Charlie discovering that Mack used her life in a novel. Then running away then being sad then forgiveness; really really squeezed in the last (I think) 15%-20% of the book.
Overall, it was okay. Maybe a 3.5? I won't say it's terrible, because it's not, but definitely could have been improved. I was just really turned off at the last part because it really felt rushed. Otherwise, it would have been more than okay.
💎 Thank you, Netgalley and author, for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Mack
Hmmm, I don't really know what to feel about her. Undercut, white shirt, jeans...lol, that's my type. But still, I find her character a bit... uninteresting in a way. I don't feel like she really understands the depth of her mistake, that level of betrayal. Using someone else's pain for their own benefit is just a huge no no. I just hate the way she thinks.
Charlie
I love her character development but she forgave Mack too easily, in my opinion. She was betrayed by a person she loves. It took her years to forgive her father and move on from her ex wife (both betrayed her) but it only took 2 days for Mack and they've only known each other for like...a month? She literally used her personal life in a story.
Nonetheless, I still liked both of them. The characters are interesting in their own way (if I look beyond the areas that I didn't like about them). I think, as a reader, I was meant to feel disappointed with Mack for doing that so I could sympathize with Charlie (I did, somehow...until she forgave her waaaaaay to quickly). Mack should have begged. 🙄 Anyway, characters are a 6/10 for me.
Pacing of the story
The beginning was okay... that's about 1/3 of the book
Then around 2/3 it felt a bit slow
On the last part, it felt really rushed. Even the chapters got shorter. Usually, I have no problem with that but here, it felt like chapters were instantly cut just so the story would move forward at a quicker pace and get on to the next point. This is the part where the main idea of the story was just coming in: Charlie discovering that Mack used her life in a novel. Then running away then being sad then forgiveness; really really squeezed in the last (I think) 15%-20% of the book.
Overall, it was okay. Maybe a 3.5? I won't say it's terrible, because it's not, but definitely could have been improved. I was just really turned off at the last part because it really felt rushed. Otherwise, it would have been more than okay.
💎 Thank you, Netgalley and author, for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily
January 15, 2024
This book was my second sapphic romance and continued my love for this genre. These two beautiful, and a bitty bit broken, characters wove themselves through each other's lives in the most captivating way. The burn was low and slow, but I fell into their story and grumbled each time “real life” made me set it aside.
WHAT I LOVED MOST:
The stakes felt real, and high, and had me worried the entire time. Sometimes romance can be predictable, and that’s what we love about them, right? But this story had me contemplating how they’d make it work and biting my fingernails, waiting for the “eep!” moment. Well done with the “eep-ness” Dana Hawksins!
The chapters had the most deliciously foreshadowing names. My favorite…
CHARLIE’S DRINK SPECIAL: RAINBOW LOVE LATTE WITH EXTRA SPRINKLES
starbucks, please create this drink!
The mental health representation was done well. I felt jitters and ickies each time Mack had to “people” too hard. My stomach sank each time Charlie reflected moments with her father and how it affected her marriage.
I WANT TO WORK/LIVE AT SUGAR MUGS! Charlie, don’t worry. When Ben moves on, I got you girl! The ambiance… the way the space is described… It would be my happy place.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
“You trying to make me feel guilty?” “Honey. I’m trying to make you feel loved.”
“Along with it, she felt the all-too-familiar sensation of family relationships being a spectator sport.”
“Tattoos are this, I guess, dichotomy. That’s the word, right? It’s like, Look at me! But also, I’m covering myself up so you can’t see all of me.”
Mack’s voice was husky now, her rasp layered like sugared cream.
So, if you love to watch loooove unfold, and you appreciate characters conquering their fear of love (in a truly believable way), then this is a must read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Dana Hawkins for the e-ARC. I appreciated the opportunity to read this book and give an honest review.
WHAT I LOVED MOST:
The stakes felt real, and high, and had me worried the entire time. Sometimes romance can be predictable, and that’s what we love about them, right? But this story had me contemplating how they’d make it work and biting my fingernails, waiting for the “eep!” moment. Well done with the “eep-ness” Dana Hawksins!
The chapters had the most deliciously foreshadowing names. My favorite…
CHARLIE’S DRINK SPECIAL: RAINBOW LOVE LATTE WITH EXTRA SPRINKLES
starbucks, please create this drink!
The mental health representation was done well. I felt jitters and ickies each time Mack had to “people” too hard. My stomach sank each time Charlie reflected moments with her father and how it affected her marriage.
I WANT TO WORK/LIVE AT SUGAR MUGS! Charlie, don’t worry. When Ben moves on, I got you girl! The ambiance… the way the space is described… It would be my happy place.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
“You trying to make me feel guilty?” “Honey. I’m trying to make you feel loved.”
“Along with it, she felt the all-too-familiar sensation of family relationships being a spectator sport.”
“Tattoos are this, I guess, dichotomy. That’s the word, right? It’s like, Look at me! But also, I’m covering myself up so you can’t see all of me.”
Mack’s voice was husky now, her rasp layered like sugared cream.
So, if you love to watch loooove unfold, and you appreciate characters conquering their fear of love (in a truly believable way), then this is a must read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Dana Hawkins for the e-ARC. I appreciated the opportunity to read this book and give an honest review.
February 11, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
mack is struggling, she has a deadline for her next book but she has writers block and is so way behind she is panicking, on a whim she goes home to her parents in seattle
charlie runs a coffee shop but not any other coffee shop, she has made it different so that people can feel comfortable there, children can go and listen to stories read to them by drag queens, she hopes to make a difference but charlie is running on empty, she has so many bills she cant keep on top of, it is only a matter of time before she is forced to close
mack stumbles across charlies coffee shop and is instantly charmed by it all but mostly by charlie it also helps that charlie is comfortable in her surroundings and can talk to anyone, everyone has a story and its whilst there that macks writers block starts to unblock by using some of charlies own stories
charlie wont mind would she....
well have to say i thoroughly enjoyed how this storyline played out....i fell into this book and devoured it in one day... such was the way the author made all the characters believable and likeable, cant wait to read more from this author
mack is struggling, she has a deadline for her next book but she has writers block and is so way behind she is panicking, on a whim she goes home to her parents in seattle
charlie runs a coffee shop but not any other coffee shop, she has made it different so that people can feel comfortable there, children can go and listen to stories read to them by drag queens, she hopes to make a difference but charlie is running on empty, she has so many bills she cant keep on top of, it is only a matter of time before she is forced to close
mack stumbles across charlies coffee shop and is instantly charmed by it all but mostly by charlie it also helps that charlie is comfortable in her surroundings and can talk to anyone, everyone has a story and its whilst there that macks writers block starts to unblock by using some of charlies own stories
charlie wont mind would she....
well have to say i thoroughly enjoyed how this storyline played out....i fell into this book and devoured it in one day... such was the way the author made all the characters believable and likeable, cant wait to read more from this author
December 27, 2023
"Not In The Plan" by Dana Hawkins: A Cozy, Yet Flawed Brew of Romance and Realism
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Dana Hawkins' "Not In The Plan," served as an ARC from NetGalley, delivers a comforting narrative woven with the aroma of coffee and the struggles of artistic inspiration. Set amidst the vibrant streets of Seattle, the story follows Mack, a writer grappling with creative paralysis and looming deadlines, seeking solace far from the pressures of New York City.
At its core, the book unfurls the relationship between Mack and Charlie, the latter a charming yet financially strained coffee shop owner on the mends from heartbreak. While their connection holds promise, it stumbles across the pages, teetering between a slow-burning romance and moments of seemingly rushed, instant affection.
The characters, imperfect and relatable, carve their identities amidst flaws that breathe authenticity into the tale. The delightful inclusion of coffee-themed chapters enhances the cozy setting, though the execution occasionally falters.
Hawkins skillfully incorporates themes of anxiety, divorce, and the comforting ambiance of coffee culture, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to Seattle's lively atmosphere. However, the brevity of the novel, packed into 256 pages, curtails the opportunity for more profound revelations, leaving a longing for greater exploration.
In my view, "Not In The Plan" stands as a commendable attempt in the realm of cozy queer romances. Despite pacing inconsistencies and an unquenched thirst for deeper narrative dives, Hawkins' storytelling prowess offers an engaging reflection of life's intricacies and the entangled paths of love and existence.
I found the relatable imperfections within characters and the comforting familiarity of everyday challenges to be this book's standout elements, elevating it within the cozy romance genre.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Dana Hawkins' "Not In The Plan," served as an ARC from NetGalley, delivers a comforting narrative woven with the aroma of coffee and the struggles of artistic inspiration. Set amidst the vibrant streets of Seattle, the story follows Mack, a writer grappling with creative paralysis and looming deadlines, seeking solace far from the pressures of New York City.
At its core, the book unfurls the relationship between Mack and Charlie, the latter a charming yet financially strained coffee shop owner on the mends from heartbreak. While their connection holds promise, it stumbles across the pages, teetering between a slow-burning romance and moments of seemingly rushed, instant affection.
The characters, imperfect and relatable, carve their identities amidst flaws that breathe authenticity into the tale. The delightful inclusion of coffee-themed chapters enhances the cozy setting, though the execution occasionally falters.
Hawkins skillfully incorporates themes of anxiety, divorce, and the comforting ambiance of coffee culture, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to Seattle's lively atmosphere. However, the brevity of the novel, packed into 256 pages, curtails the opportunity for more profound revelations, leaving a longing for greater exploration.
In my view, "Not In The Plan" stands as a commendable attempt in the realm of cozy queer romances. Despite pacing inconsistencies and an unquenched thirst for deeper narrative dives, Hawkins' storytelling prowess offers an engaging reflection of life's intricacies and the entangled paths of love and existence.
I found the relatable imperfections within characters and the comforting familiarity of everyday challenges to be this book's standout elements, elevating it within the cozy romance genre.
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