A review by amanda_reads13
Ready or Not by Cara Bastone

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

5.0

After a one night stand with Ethan, Eve finds out that she is pregnant. 

I really enjoyed the narrator of this audiobook. She fits Eve's personality perfectly. 

I absolutely adore this book and that is coming from someone who HATES the accidental pregnancy trope. I think she does a really good job of addressing this topic. In a time where abortion is such a hot button topic, it's important to approach the accidental pregnancy trope with care and the understanding that this situation would not be all rainbows and sunshine for some people. It's important that we see the ups and downs that she goes through as we follow her journey. 

Throughout the story we see the ups and downs of Eve and Ethan's relationship. It's refreshing to see that Ethan is not made out to be the bad guy. We know that he wants to be involved, but he's in a really complicated situation. Yes, Eve is upset when Ethan disappears on her, but she's very understanding and she gives him choices. I love that everybody involved is very mature and they're able to make decisions together by openly communicating with each other.

Willa is a really complicated character. You want to shake her and say "get over it, just support your friend". The reality is, she has been through a lot of trauma. It's not that easy to accept that something you have been fighting so hard for comes so easily to others. Willa has been trying for a baby for so long, and we learn that
she had a miscarriage shortly after her mom passed away.
So, it is completely understandable that she would feel so overwhelmed by Eve's news. Their friendship is so beautiful. Willa does what she can to be there to support Eve, but Eve is also very understanding of Willa's mental state and situation. 

Shep is such an incredible guy. He knows she's in a difficult situation, and even though he is completely in love with her, he doesn't push his feelings onto her. He shows them in little ways and by being there to support her. Seeing her have another man's baby must have broken his heart, but instead of being resentful and angry, he's supportive, compassionate, and empathetic. He accepts the fact that if he wants to be in Eve's life, Ethan will be in his life too. So, he makes an effort to develop a friendship with Ethan. He is honestly the most adorable man. 

I love that the relationship is a slow burn. She gets to come to terms with her feelings for Shep in her own time without feeling pressured by anyone. 

Tropes: friends to lovers, slow burn, accidental pregnancy 

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