“When Johnny Raikes dumped me, I created The Ex Files.”

“Somewhere behind the angry woman we just met, there's still the girl who used to love you. You just have to bring her back."

Loved it, loved it, loved it!!! Absolutely a fan!!! Book two in the True Live series, happening almost simultaneously to book one!!!! I couldn’t be happier!!! I loved meeting Blake and Gabriel once again and sharing this story with them !!! But now up to the main course… Marissa and John’s story was sublime!!! So so good!!! A second chance romance happening sixteen years after a terrible break up but with a single dad and a tireless man who wants to win her back desperately!!! There’s nothing stopping John from taking his time to get in Marissa’s good graces again. And when he ends up being mistakenly her donor for IVE … well forced proximity is in!!!! From high school sweethearts to enemies to lovers to perfect couple and family. This book was so good and so fun and so entertaining and the tension between the main characters was so thick!!!! Loved it!!!! While book one was more enemies to lovers, this one was definitely him trying to win a second chance with her and her being terribly stubborn about loving him. So so good!!! And when a little baby is involved … I’m such a sucker for the single dad trope!!! Can’t wait to read book three !!!!

"I promise to work hard until you believe in me again, Mari. I messed up, I did everything wrong last time. But I'm not running away this time. I'm launching myself straight into the fight. I'll have enough faith for the both of us."

“I'm begging, begging to be given a second chance. I'm this close to dropping to my knees and begging for real.”

"You want a love that never ends. That's beyond time, space, or physical attraction. You want to grow old with someone you can love even with their quirks. You want a love big enough to hold the ugly and the beautiful. You want to be with a man who will always be there, always love you the way you love them."

Thank you to netgalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me to read this book. This was such a cute and fun romance book.

Marissa, a single career driven woman, goes through the IVF to pursue her dream to have a child. Just as she nears the end of her treatment her high school ex boyfriend walks into the room to give her an uncomfortable exam while her original doctor is away. John, the doctor, is a single father who after seeing Marissa wants to give their love another shot. Marissa though is apprehensive and sworn off love. This book follows their journey on what is the best for the both of them as well as Nora, John's daughter, and Marissa's soon to be child.

Baby, One More Time is a second chance and single dad romance that will pull at your heart strings. I recommend this book to all my romance reader friends.

Sixteen years after getting her heart broken by her high school sweetheart, Marissa – rich, successful… and perennially, probably permanently single – decides to have a baby on her own. So it’s as unpleasant a surprise as possible when said heartbreaker, now a single dad recently returned home to New York, turns up … as a doctor at her fertility clinic. He wants a second chance, but can she trust him not to crush her heart again?

Once I managed to ignore the (very) absurd coincidences of the set-up for this book, and some extremely questionable ethics, Marissa and John’s second-chance love story was a charming one. John never once made me doubt his commitment or sincerity, even if Marissa needed more convincing. His 6-year-old, Nora, is the most precocious of moppets.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ for being soothingly predictable and keeping the bumps confined to Marissa’s growing belly.

<i>Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.</i>

WHAT A GOOD BOOK, AND IT'S SO LOVELY TO READ A SINGLE DAD


I had been reading this book for more than a month, and it was because I was so busy that I couldn't read it until I was finally able to do it today. Honestly, I liked the book from the beginning because it has everything I like, so I definitely recommend it. I loved the chemistry of the protagonists, and it was so much fun to read this book because something fascinating was always happening.

The protagonists have a story behind them, which is why they currently run into each other in the office where he was going to examine her, and she was there because she was determined to raise a baby alone.

That's when they see each other again after so long because of how their relationship ended, and the truth is that I found their first meeting very funny.

I think she's so intelligent and successful

I really loved reading this book, so I hope to read more books by this author in the future.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

Indulging in this delectable romcom proved to be an irresistible experience that kept me glued to its pages! While romcoms aren't typically my go-to genre, Isley, a new author to me, has captivated my interest, prompting me to explore more of her works.

The storyline was nothing short of amazing! Its genuine, heartfelt portrayal of real-life situations took me by surprise. The beauty lies in the subtle realization that what unfolds in the narrative mirrors aspects of reality, showcasing Isley's exceptional storytelling prowess.

Marissa, the focal point of the story, emerged as a truly brilliant character. Every moment of her journey was a joy to witness, and her well-crafted characteristics made her a captivating subject. I found myself immersed in her tale, eager to delve into her world for an extended duration.

This romcom left little room for criticism, offering an enjoyable and effortlessly engaging reading experience. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone seeking a delightful, easy read that leaves you with a sense of satisfaction. Isley has certainly earned a spot on my list of authors to explore further.

This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and I would read more of their work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

A cute, easy read romance. A typical fall back in love, enemies to lovers type story. A little far fetched but I enjoyed the romance and storyline.

Kudos to Isley for her depiction of the relationship between John and his daughter, Nora. It was honestly my favorite aspect of the entire novel, and I looked forward to the scenes including her the most. The protagonist’s angst was too much for me to understand, especially considering it stemmed from an event that happened between her and John when she was 16. I couldn’t understand Marissa’s inability to imagine another perspective for John’s immaturity *as a teenager.* It could be because I’m hyperaware of the stupidity of some of my choices as a teenager, but Marissa seemed rather self-righteous and I couldn’t commiserate with her turmoil at all. I could suspend disbelief for some of the plot choices, but Marissa’s characterization was my least favorite aspect of the novel. I’m still super grateful for this ARC from NetGalley!

This was a light and easy read. I read it in two sittings. It pulled me in from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down!

John was a character that was easy to root for. He repeated proved himself to Marissa throughout the story. Some of my favorite scenes were his interactions with his daughter. Their relationship was very sweet and endearing.

While I enjoyed reading this book, I did wish there was a little more. I would’ve liked to have seen what brought them together in the first place (besides being neighbors) and what lead to the love between them that was so strong, nothing else could compare.

Overall, this was a fun, low conflict read. I think you would enjoy it if you’re looking for a light second chance/enemies to lovers romance.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Book Review 📚
Baby, One More Time by Camilla Isley - 4/5 ⭐

A delicious romcom that I couldn't put down! I'm not usually one for a Romcom but this has me hooked. Isley is a first time author for me but I'll now be expanding and finding more to read.

The story was amazing! It was so heartfelt and real life without even realising. It's strange when you're reading a book and you immerse yourself so deeply and then suddenly you realise, wait, this actually happens! It shows you how good an author is.

Marissa (our FMC) was absolutely brilliant. I was loving every second of her journey and watching her develop. Her characteristics were absolutely brilliant, I could of read about her all day long.

There really isn't much to fault in this one, it was an enjoyable, easy read. I'd definitely recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.

Marissa has decided she is going to have a baby through IVF because she is at a certain age with no partner in sight. However when she goes to one of her appointments her doctor is the ex that broke her heart and ruined her for other men. John is determined to win Marissa back.
I liked the beginning of this one and I think it was a great story idea. I just felt it needed something else, more groveling maybe? John just seems to good to be true. Everything seems to get resolved so neatly and easily.
So many things to like about this one but I just wanted a little more drama.
You will enjoy this if you like
Second chance romance
Independent female characters
Sweet male leads
Pregnancy /IVF themes
Low stakes

Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for this review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to Boldwood Books & NetGalley for an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.

I always enjoy Camilla’s books, she always weaves together the perfect romcom. I was also so excited because there were cameos from Blake & Gabriel, and also found out we will be getting book three in the series (which will be Gabriel’s brother Thomas’ story). But you can definitely read this as a SA, but I encourage you to read both books because they’re both great!

This was definitely the ultimate second chance at love trope, and I’m not sure any author could ever top this trope after this story.

Marissa has finally decided she is going to go forward with IVF, and get pregnant using a sperm donor. She’s spent years working hard at her job, as well as developing a successful app on the side, and she just hasn’t had the time to date. But let’s be honest even if she had the time to date, she doesn’t trust men. Not after her one true love dumped her via letter after their senior prom, and never saw her again. That’s why she makes the decision to go through IVF as a strong independent woman ready to become a mother.

But Marissa gets the shock of her life when a new doctor at the practice, sees her for her appointment, and it turns out to be her ex John. Finding out he has moved back to NYC, has a daughter, is recently divorced, and is working at her fertility clinic sends her spiraling. And after one big mishap that results in a positive pregnancy test for her, she has to decide what her future will hold. Does she give John a second chance to love her? Or does she stand grounded in her plan to be a single mom?

An enjoyable read, and I already am looking forward to book three of the series!

This was so cute! Loved the unexpected pregnancy twist and how the characters were able to reconnect after a bad high school break up. The story has depth, but is also fun and I'm excited to read more titles by this author.

Have I mentioned recently how much I love Camilla Isley's books? And this one is another fabulous one right up there with her best.

Featuring Marissa who is Blake from Not in a Billion Years best friend, and John, the man who broke her heart when she was 18, and has never seen since.

And i can't really comment on all of the amazing bits as I'd be giving away spoilers.... but suffice to say that there are sparks flying and not always of the romantic variety.

There is a situation that is utterly fabulous in setting things up Oh and Nora, John's daughter is utterly adorable and I fell for her as much as I did for John and Marissa.

The way they come back into each others lives is hilarious and sets the tone for the whole book.

And I was hooked on every second of it and found I was wishing the really good hotel entertainment that I was watching to be over sooner, so I could go back to devouring this book.

I loved it so much, it's definitely another winner from Camilla Isley.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

A delightful romantic novel that delivers on the promise of an engaging love story. Camilla Isley crafts a tale that explores the complexities of love, the unpredictability of life, and the beauty of unexpected second chances. For readers who enjoy heartwarming romances with a touch of humor, this book is a delightful addition to the genre.

📖🅡🅔🅥🅘🅔🅦📖

📖𝕋𝕚𝕥𝕝𝕖: Baby, One More Time
✍🏼️𝔸𝕦𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕣: Camilla Isley

(Thank you NetGalley, Publisher, and Camilla Isley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review)

Release date: January, 20th

This book belongs to the True Love Serie:
1. Not in a Billion Years
2. Baby, One More Time

Tropes:
🏫School Sweethearts
😡Grudge
💙Second Chance Romance
🐣Pregnancy (IVF rep)
👨🏻Single Dad

📖Marisa and Dear John were school sweethearts until prom night when something happened that left Marissa crying and heartbroken. Since then Marissa banished his persona from existence until she decided to have a baby by IVF (in vitro fertilization). Surprise surprise, Dear John comes back to her life as her doctor substitute in an awful yet comic situation where she is prepared for a gynecological exploration (so yes, with her legs spread)

✨And as an ARC that has not yet been published, I can't say much more without spoiling you. The book was easy to read but as I used to Camilla's books being my go-to, this one left me wanting a bit more. I think I would do some things differently for it to be more plausible and I would have expected a longer end because it felt slightly abrupt.

🌸 Curious for more details? Hang tight till the release date! Join me on Goodreads and Instagram (anibluethorn) to spill all the tea after it hits the shelves! ☕📖

“And I know that I haven’t been that safe harbor for you in the past, but I swear Marissa, I am that man now. I’ll be everything you’ve ever wanted and more. I tried life without you and really did not like it. I don’t care how long I have to wait, you’re worth every second.” And just like that you know that John and Marissa are mean together if he can convince her he is not going anywhere and he is going to saty forever after breaking her heart sister years ago. A great love story

Oh wow! This is definitely hopeful for women struggling with infertility and being a woman finding love while building a family! The plot was suitable to the romance novel and family dynamic. The single dad trope with ex high school sweet hearts with second chances is what I needed and I’m sure you will devour this quickly like I did! There are so many tropes and honest descriptions like IVF pain and struggles this book will stay highly recommended with me for a long time and I’m so glad an author actually wrote about this instead of the accidental pregnant trope. Pregnancy can happen many different ways and that’s not a bad thing. Thank you so much to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley sooooo much for letting me read this!

A good, fun book. I liked it but let’s not take it too seriously. The build up to the big event on the prologue probably over egged the pudding a. It but then that would be tricky because if it was as dramatic as it first sounded we’d have to hate young Johnny a lot. And I’m pretty sure the mix up throwing them back together just ALL has to be taken with a pinch of salt. But otherwise it was a fun read and I’m glad the inevitable bump in the road was quite natural. If I have any fault with the novel it’s that Marissa was a bit of a melt.

Marissa Mayer is beautiful, successful and has everything she want except… love which she gave up on and a baby… which is why she decided to become a mother through IVF

John Raikes aka s the man that broke marissa heart at 18 with no explanation is now a divorced single dad and is also a super smart world neonatal surgeon

So imagine Marissa surprised when John( who she hasn’t seen in 16 years) turns out to be filling in for her normal doctor. And to make matter even worse by some freak accident the clinic ends of fertilizing her eggs with his sperm so now she pregnant with her high school sweethearts baby..

Now that they are basically forced to be in each other lives, John wants a second chance and has to prove to Marrisa he’s worthy of one.

I honestly wish we saw more of them as a couple, even though they did get their HEA we didn’t really get to see it. Also, I wish a few topic were discuss in more detail. I personally don’t like when kids talk like adults in books, I had to keep making sure John daughter was like 6/7 and not 16.

Overall I did enjoy the story, and I look forward to reading the last book in this trilogy.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.