Never Planned on You by Lindsay Hameroff: Review

Sometimes you really enjoy a book but there are parts of it that bug you. Have you ever experienced that while reading?

This is a first time author for me and the characters that she developed were awesome and totally made this story. Check out my thoughts on this upcoming publication below.

Never Planned on You by Lindsay Hameroff
Publisher: ‎ St. Martin’s Griffin
Pub Date: February 18, 2025
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1250902948

SYNOPSIS:
Ali Rubin has a reputation for spontaneity. Like that time she made a drunken bet in London that led to matching tattoos with a stranger. Her joie de vivre is one of her best qualities; she lives every day to the fullest and follows her dreams wherever they take her. And now, they’re taking her from her career as a chef in New York City back home to Baltimore, where she’s interning as a wedding planner.

Despite the occasional fantasy about her British tattoo twin, Ali never expected to see Graham again. So no one is more surprised than she is when he turns up in Baltimore, ordering a latte at her favorite cafe. When they reconnect during an enchanting evening together, Ali can’t help but wonder if Graham might be someone special.

At the same time, she’s desperate to succeed in her new career and prove that she isn’t the family flake. When she gets a job planning a high profile wedding at a historic hotel, it seems like things are finally falling into place. That is, until Graham turns out to be the groom.

Graham’s family owns the once-grand, now struggling Black-Eyed Susan, and he’s returned to Baltimore to help his grandmother get it back on its feet. He’s certain that hosting a wedding at the hotel is just the publicity boost it needs. Ali’s boss agrees, and promises Ali a full-time gig if the affair goes off without a hitch. Unfortunately, Ali and Graham can’t seem to ignore their rekindled chemistry, especially when it’s revealed that Graham and his fiancée are planning a marriage of convenience. Still, staying away from each other is the best thing they can do, since giving in to their growing feelings might cost them everything.

Because when it comes to love, all bets are off.

Never Planned on You by Lindsay Hameroff Review

I love reading new authors. They usually come with great storylines and plots and this one certainly hit the mark in that area. Fun and creative, this story was an amusing read.

I love the beginning of the book, which sets the tone throughout. Hameroff used humor and wonderful characterization to engage the reader. But there are parts I know some readers may be critical of… So the question is: if it is a marriage of convenience and you make out with and have major feelings for the groom-to-be, is that cheating on your fiancé?

I have to say I struggled with this concept myself. Everything else about this book was great! The two were perfectly matched. The best friends were awesome. The flow and feel of the story are great! Never Planned on You is the perfect title for this book as it embodies everything about the book!

I do have one other question – Whoever decided that 3rd act drama is a thing needs therapy. I hate it! Plus, I really think we need longer endings to enjoy the fruits of the author’s labor and the HEA.

With all of that going on in this story, what do I really feel? Never Planned on You is a wonderful read, a delightful rom-com, and a story you will remember. For that reason, I think you should definitely check it out!!

4 STARS!!

Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.