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Soho Loft #3
Ready or Not
Sometimes wrong is extra right.
Mallory Spencer is in charge. As the face of Soho Savvy, the advertising firm she owns with her three best friends, it’s important that she’s poised, polished, and put together. However, as she watches her friends couple up and settle down, she wonders about her own happily ever after. One thing’s for sure. It’s not going to happen with that blue-eyed bartender from Showplace. It’s irritatingly clear they couldn’t be more wrong for each other . . . or have more chemistry.
Hope Sanders wants nothing more than to keep her head down and craft a better life for herself running everyone’s favorite nightspot. That means ignoring the groupies that flock to the bar to stare at her all night. However, an uptight brunette has snagged Hope’s attention and she knows a challenge when she sees it.
A Soho Loft Romance
Mallory Spencer is in charge. As the face of Soho Savvy, the advertising firm she owns with her three best friends, it’s important that she’s poised, polished, and put together. However, as she watches her friends couple up and settle down, she wonders about her own happily ever after. One thing’s for sure. It’s not going to happen with that blue-eyed bartender from Showplace. It’s irritatingly clear they couldn’t be more wrong for each other . . . or have more chemistry.
Hope Sanders wants nothing more than to keep her head down and craft a better life for herself running everyone’s favorite nightspot. That means ignoring the groupies that flock to the bar to stare at her all night. However, an uptight brunette has snagged Hope’s attention and she knows a challenge when she sees it.
A Soho Loft Romance
240 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2015
64 people are currently reading
1450 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brayden
32 books2,695 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
December 16, 2017
Wow! let me dive right in and say that this was another one of her greatest out-put in this series and i know i am grading from the 1st book..this had it all..relationship issues,family problems,drug problems,friendship topics and the lifestyle of the rich and poor: how they live and treated each other,the inside of how they live. Now to the writing-grade A+ and the chemistry between the main characters was just telling and passionate...awesome back and forth dialogue between the main characters(Mallory & Hope)..people please go out and pick this book up when it hits the bookstore..its very good..nice touching moment at the end..highly recommend
May 5, 2016
4 1/2 Stars. Melissa Brayden, really is one of the better romance authors out there. This book was great. Book one is still my favorite, but this is a very close second. I was excited to finally read Mal's story. Shes always been the character that held the most mystery. As the book unfolded, it revealed more and more of her character and she became more and more likeable. I liked Hope character also, though she was a bit annoyingly stubborn towards the end of the book. I was not that crazy about the story-line with Hope's sister, but it didn't take away from the enjoyment of the book.
I was also happy how Brayden dealt with the other characters, we have grown to enjoy so much. I am definitely content with how she wrapped up this series.
If you have not read book one and two, read them first. This is a wonderful series for romance fans and I'd recommend it in a heartbeat.
I was also happy how Brayden dealt with the other characters, we have grown to enjoy so much. I am definitely content with how she wrapped up this series.
If you have not read book one and two, read them first. This is a wonderful series for romance fans and I'd recommend it in a heartbeat.
October 18, 2015
Like all great romantic trilogies, a smart author saves the best for last. I might be in the minority but Ready or Not, Mallory’s chance at love is as good or IMO the best book of the trilogy.
I love a strong woman. Sure, Mallory is a trust fund baby and yes, maybe she is a snob. I loved the contrast between her privileged upbringing and successful career path and Hope’s scramble to succeed on her own ambition and entrepreneurial skills. It is a pleasure to watch the controlling and uptight Mallory find herself off balance around Hope. Hope’s confidence, playfulness and just plain goodness keep Mallory guessing and add so much their relationship. Hope brings out the softer side of Mallory, the side she rarely shows in public. We readers get to watch a regimented woman learn to adapt and open herself to new love. How great is that?
I thought the author added a lot of depth to the family drama experienced by both leading ladies in Ready or Not. These details made the expected breakup/strain in their relationship feel real and possible. Their differences would eventually become an issue and they did. How Mallory dealt with the events presented showed once again her ability to grow and adapt.
The other members of Soho Savvy, the couples from the first two books receive enough page time to entertain without taking the spotlight away from the Hope and Mallory storyline. One of my favourite scenes in the book involves a final M-C gathering with Brooklyn, Sam and Hunter high-fiving like their Big Top clients. As always, Brayden writes brilliant and entertaining dialogue. She brings her characters to life and I appreciate how effective she is at keeping each player in character. That continuity is what makes the romantic trilogy work. We readers get to revisit the couples we have come to know and love while enjoying the new couple and the challenges they face.
This Soho trilogy will be difficult to top but I do hope this will not be the last series penned by Ms. Brayden. Ready or Not is a worthy addition to this series. Well done.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley
I love a strong woman. Sure, Mallory is a trust fund baby and yes, maybe she is a snob. I loved the contrast between her privileged upbringing and successful career path and Hope’s scramble to succeed on her own ambition and entrepreneurial skills. It is a pleasure to watch the controlling and uptight Mallory find herself off balance around Hope. Hope’s confidence, playfulness and just plain goodness keep Mallory guessing and add so much their relationship. Hope brings out the softer side of Mallory, the side she rarely shows in public. We readers get to watch a regimented woman learn to adapt and open herself to new love. How great is that?
I thought the author added a lot of depth to the family drama experienced by both leading ladies in Ready or Not. These details made the expected breakup/strain in their relationship feel real and possible. Their differences would eventually become an issue and they did. How Mallory dealt with the events presented showed once again her ability to grow and adapt.
The other members of Soho Savvy, the couples from the first two books receive enough page time to entertain without taking the spotlight away from the Hope and Mallory storyline. One of my favourite scenes in the book involves a final M-C gathering with Brooklyn, Sam and Hunter high-fiving like their Big Top clients. As always, Brayden writes brilliant and entertaining dialogue. She brings her characters to life and I appreciate how effective she is at keeping each player in character. That continuity is what makes the romantic trilogy work. We readers get to revisit the couples we have come to know and love while enjoying the new couple and the challenges they face.
This Soho trilogy will be difficult to top but I do hope this will not be the last series penned by Ms. Brayden. Ready or Not is a worthy addition to this series. Well done.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley
October 10, 2015
The world of lesbian romance readers is divided into two: those who've read the first two books in this Soho Loft series (Kiss the girls, Just Three Words), and those who haven't. For the former group, you can skip the rest of this review and just order the book. As our Savvy ladies are wont to say, the universe just won't be complete without it. :) Now for the other group, either you're a newbie to lesfic or you've been living under a rock for the past couple of years. :)
In every Soho Loft book, there's a very appealing pattern to the love matches: rivals, polar opposites, rich girl/poor girl. The guaranteed conflicts/angst from such pair-ups form the basic backbone of the storylines. None of which are particularly original by themselves (as if anything in the romance genre can feel original), but applied with an overall tone of hip and lighthearted fun, and you have a very enjoyable romantic lesbian chick-lit. That pretty much sums up the appeal of this series.
Anyway, so we've come to the last but most important character in our little Soho loft universe. Mallory, the face, the brains and the financial brawn of Manhattan boutique advertising firm Savvy is the only one left of the Soho gang of four friends who is still unattached. Driven, ambitious and singularly-minded, she's completely focused on Savvy's success in the very competitive advertising market. In the eight years she's been running the firm, she simply doesn't have the time or the inclination to even think of dating seriously. But times are a-changin', as one by one, her partners and friends are coupling up and finding true love, leaving her as the awkward fifth wheel in any get-together. When your business partners are also your best friends, that's like being around lovebirds 24/7. Who wouldn't feel left out?
The ladies' favorite watering hole is manned by a hot bartender Hope, who seems to be the top attraction at the bar, and not just for her considerable bartending skills. But Hope only has eyes for that sexy, enigmatic regular who rocks power suits and Jimmy Choos. A set-up sees them meeting in an informal social setting. But that only highlights how far apart their social standing is, as far as Mallory is concerned. While the physical attraction is there, she just can't imagine spending the rest of her life with a bartender.
The central character Mallory isn't very likeable at the start. It's refreshing that the author chose to portray her realistically. For once, we have a rich girl who acts like one. She can be snobbish and patronizing, when she's not minding her manners. In fact, that's one of the things I like most about Ms. Brayden's characters. They're human. They behave like real people. They have common sense. They fight, they offend and they misunderstand, but they reach out and communicate and apologize. Like adults. No contrived or needless angst just for the sake of angst.
But then again, the whole book would have been exceedingly dry if it were mostly about Mallory. Perfection does not an interesting story make. Fortunately, love interest Hope has a more compelling backstory, plus some disreputable family and hangers-on help to liven up the proceedings. Most of the little kinks to the development of their romance (I mean the hurdles, not the bedroom stuff!) are not that surprising. When the author brings something up, I felt myself mentally waiting for the other shoe to drop. So, plotwise, it's nothing we haven't read before. And the sappiness (the couples from the first two books) occasionally borders on toothache-inducing. But the snappy dialog and clever comebacks, the warm and fuzzy friendships, and the sizzling sex all contribute to make this a fitting end to what is arguably the most enjoyable series in all of lesbian romance.
4.75 stars
Advanced Review Copy received from Netgalley
In every Soho Loft book, there's a very appealing pattern to the love matches: rivals, polar opposites, rich girl/poor girl. The guaranteed conflicts/angst from such pair-ups form the basic backbone of the storylines. None of which are particularly original by themselves (as if anything in the romance genre can feel original), but applied with an overall tone of hip and lighthearted fun, and you have a very enjoyable romantic lesbian chick-lit. That pretty much sums up the appeal of this series.
Anyway, so we've come to the last but most important character in our little Soho loft universe. Mallory, the face, the brains and the financial brawn of Manhattan boutique advertising firm Savvy is the only one left of the Soho gang of four friends who is still unattached. Driven, ambitious and singularly-minded, she's completely focused on Savvy's success in the very competitive advertising market. In the eight years she's been running the firm, she simply doesn't have the time or the inclination to even think of dating seriously. But times are a-changin', as one by one, her partners and friends are coupling up and finding true love, leaving her as the awkward fifth wheel in any get-together. When your business partners are also your best friends, that's like being around lovebirds 24/7. Who wouldn't feel left out?
The ladies' favorite watering hole is manned by a hot bartender Hope, who seems to be the top attraction at the bar, and not just for her considerable bartending skills. But Hope only has eyes for that sexy, enigmatic regular who rocks power suits and Jimmy Choos. A set-up sees them meeting in an informal social setting. But that only highlights how far apart their social standing is, as far as Mallory is concerned. While the physical attraction is there, she just can't imagine spending the rest of her life with a bartender.
The central character Mallory isn't very likeable at the start. It's refreshing that the author chose to portray her realistically. For once, we have a rich girl who acts like one. She can be snobbish and patronizing, when she's not minding her manners. In fact, that's one of the things I like most about Ms. Brayden's characters. They're human. They behave like real people. They have common sense. They fight, they offend and they misunderstand, but they reach out and communicate and apologize. Like adults. No contrived or needless angst just for the sake of angst.
But then again, the whole book would have been exceedingly dry if it were mostly about Mallory. Perfection does not an interesting story make. Fortunately, love interest Hope has a more compelling backstory, plus some disreputable family and hangers-on help to liven up the proceedings. Most of the little kinks to the development of their romance (I mean the hurdles, not the bedroom stuff!) are not that surprising. When the author brings something up, I felt myself mentally waiting for the other shoe to drop. So, plotwise, it's nothing we haven't read before. And the sappiness (the couples from the first two books) occasionally borders on toothache-inducing. But the snappy dialog and clever comebacks, the warm and fuzzy friendships, and the sizzling sex all contribute to make this a fitting end to what is arguably the most enjoyable series in all of lesbian romance.
4.75 stars
Advanced Review Copy received from Netgalley
July 26, 2017
I read it, but I rushed a bit, so I read it again.
This made me think about the right way to read a Melissa Brayden's.
The first time I was hungry because I wanted to see what was going to happen and, as a result, I didn't like the book so much.
But the second time I read it slowly, I tasted every detail, and this time I loved it.
I researched every peculiarity that came up through the reading. For example I head to translate "burgundy" (Mallory's matching underwear was black and burgundy) to discover it was the english tranlsation of Bourgogne wine.
I believe these Brayden books have to be "meditated" as a good glass of red burgundy to be really appreciated. Sipped, not gulped down.
I also "googled" every place of NY and there are many which I want to see sooner or later.
Above all, I took time to consider every feelings and emotions this story "elicited" both in the lead characaters and in myself. The result, as always with this author, is delicious.
I loved each and every character in this series, but my favourite ones are Hunter and Mallory, because of the contrast between strenght and vulnerability. I found it really charming.
This made me think about the right way to read a Melissa Brayden's.
The first time I was hungry because I wanted to see what was going to happen and, as a result, I didn't like the book so much.
But the second time I read it slowly, I tasted every detail, and this time I loved it.
I researched every peculiarity that came up through the reading. For example I head to translate "burgundy" (Mallory's matching underwear was black and burgundy) to discover it was the english tranlsation of Bourgogne wine.
I believe these Brayden books have to be "meditated" as a good glass of red burgundy to be really appreciated. Sipped, not gulped down.
I also "googled" every place of NY and there are many which I want to see sooner or later.
Above all, I took time to consider every feelings and emotions this story "elicited" both in the lead characaters and in myself. The result, as always with this author, is delicious.
I loved each and every character in this series, but my favourite ones are Hunter and Mallory, because of the contrast between strenght and vulnerability. I found it really charming.
November 6, 2015
Ready or Not is a great final book of the Soho Loft trilogy, but for me the first book (Kiss the Girl) is still the best. Anyway, I'm definitely sure I'll re-read the entire trilogy many times.
February 15, 2019
Ready or Not......final instalment of the SoHo series. And I am sooo NOT READY to see the conclusion of this series! So gonna miss the 4 ladies who are thick as thieves, their midnight chocolate emergency, their witty and clever banters.
Uptight Mallory meets Hope who is just the opposite of her... It’s heartening to see Mallory giving up control (and not being a top all the time! 😊) and let loose/let her hair down when she is with/around Hope. She knows what she wants and has no qualms going after it. Expect the normal angst/drama in the second half of the book.
Wonderful series and fully recommended! So apt that I finish reading the book on Feb 14 😊
Uptight Mallory meets Hope who is just the opposite of her... It’s heartening to see Mallory giving up control (and not being a top all the time! 😊) and let loose/let her hair down when she is with/around Hope. She knows what she wants and has no qualms going after it. Expect the normal angst/drama in the second half of the book.
Wonderful series and fully recommended! So apt that I finish reading the book on Feb 14 😊
December 18, 2022
I absolutely hate the cover of this novel. All I think about are armpits and I don’t want to be thinking about armpits. BSB covers are truly awful. They’ve gotten a bit better, but this is bad.
Ready or Not is definitely my least favorite of Melissa Brayden’s Soho Loft series. That isn’t to say that it’s bad—I don’t think it is. I was happy to read Mallory’s story. And Hope is great. Kudos to Brayden for planting the seeds for this romance in the first book! But I just have a hard time believing Mallory and Hope are a good match long term. And not because of the extreme disparities in their upbringings but because of the realities of the work schedules. But if I can put my mind at ease about that, I did enjoy the romance.
I also really liked that Brayden gives us enough moments with Brooklyn and Jessica and Sam and Hunter. One of my peeves in series is that not enough time is spent with the previous starting characters, but Brayden didn’t leave me wanting in that regard.
And without spoiling anything (but if you’ve read the novel, I hope this comment makes sense), may I lament about the missed opportunity of not using “Pal Mal” in favor of “Buddy Mallory”?
Since I haven’t covered it in reviews to the previous two novels, can I also comment on how stupid the whole Midnight Chocolate thing is? Who randomly chooses midnight to hold important talks with friends while also eating copious amounts of junk food and wine? It’s cute that they have this drop-everything-and-show-up-for-each-other ritual, but does it need to involve a spread of 8-10 foods with chocolate and wine at midnight in New York City? I hate it. And call bullshit.
Anyway, after reading this entire series again (now multiple times), it still holds up for me.
Ready or Not is definitely my least favorite of Melissa Brayden’s Soho Loft series. That isn’t to say that it’s bad—I don’t think it is. I was happy to read Mallory’s story. And Hope is great. Kudos to Brayden for planting the seeds for this romance in the first book! But I just have a hard time believing Mallory and Hope are a good match long term. And not because of the extreme disparities in their upbringings but because of the realities of the work schedules. But if I can put my mind at ease about that, I did enjoy the romance.
I also really liked that Brayden gives us enough moments with Brooklyn and Jessica and Sam and Hunter. One of my peeves in series is that not enough time is spent with the previous starting characters, but Brayden didn’t leave me wanting in that regard.
And without spoiling anything (but if you’ve read the novel, I hope this comment makes sense), may I lament about the missed opportunity of not using “Pal Mal” in favor of “Buddy Mallory”?
Since I haven’t covered it in reviews to the previous two novels, can I also comment on how stupid the whole Midnight Chocolate thing is? Who randomly chooses midnight to hold important talks with friends while also eating copious amounts of junk food and wine? It’s cute that they have this drop-everything-and-show-up-for-each-other ritual, but does it need to involve a spread of 8-10 foods with chocolate and wine at midnight in New York City? I hate it. And call bullshit.
Anyway, after reading this entire series again (now multiple times), it still holds up for me.
January 4, 2016
So! I have to admit I kind of dragged my heels with this one. I was afraid I wasn't going to like it because I don't like it when a main character's family drives drama, so everything about Hope's sister and her issues, particularly how that was set up, turned me off at first. But really, I should know better. I read every book by Melissa Brayden for a reason.
Hope and Mallory are great. The way they get together is super cute, especially how Hope brings Mallory around to it. They also each have satisfying arcs, which I appreciated, and I totally believed them as a couple by the end. I also liked seeing the rest of the Savvy crew again and their new dudebro clients.
Keep plenty of chocolate handy, and maybe a little of booze for this one. If you liked the other books, you'll like this one. It can be read on its own, but I have no idea why anyone would want to when the first two books are so good, especially Kiss the Girl.
Hope and Mallory are great. The way they get together is super cute, especially how Hope brings Mallory around to it. They also each have satisfying arcs, which I appreciated, and I totally believed them as a couple by the end. I also liked seeing the rest of the Savvy crew again and their new dudebro clients.
Keep plenty of chocolate handy, and maybe a little of booze for this one. If you liked the other books, you'll like this one. It can be read on its own, but I have no idea why anyone would want to when the first two books are so good, especially Kiss the Girl.
June 14, 2019
If you’re here reading this, then you’ve probably read the other two books. So here’s the reassurance – this is a damn fine book, and you’re going to like it. Read it and enjoy it, okay? This is a solidly four-star book, with only minor problems, and it’s going to leave you feeling warm and snuggly inside for the rest of the day.
Mallory is the final member of her group of friends; slightly pretentious, she has a good heart to go along with her fair chunk of old-American money (and is a super hottie to boot). It’s this last trait (the hottie business, not the money) which first attracts the attention of Hope – a barback at the Savvy girls’ favourite watering hole, Showplace. But Mallory and Hope are from fairly dissimilar backgrounds as these things go. Will they fall in love, etc etc?
Yes. Yes they will.
Brayden actually writes fairly angst-free novels. The tensions which normally drive a romance like this forward instead resolve themselves here without unbelievable conflict or overly dramatic displays of emotion. Brayden has always written dialogue which trends towards the believable, or downright witty in some places, and communication is actively encouraged. The use of the “Midnight Chocolate” trope (wherein the author brings all the characters together to ritually talk) gets all the characters moving together in a natural way, as well as acting as exposition for the reader.
Although the previous two novels set up each of the Savvy girls with different personalities, those differences don’t shine in “Ready or Not.” The recognisable speech patterns from the previous books are not repeated; Sam sounds like Hunter, sounds like Brooklyn, sounds like Mallory. This actually caught me off guard – with all the groundwork laid in the previous two novels, it broke me out of suspension that the characters would suddenly behave and speak like clones of the same person. So weird.
Mallory, although not immune from this new fad for having dialogue interchangeable with anyone else, has the advantage that we as readers are seeing through her eyes. That saves the novel, frankly, because Mallory is a sympathetic character – no small feat of writing considering she is openly a snobby control-freak. It is a high compliment when a writer builds a character with pressing flaws which are then worked through properly and slowly over the course of the novel. The easement of those flaws (and their subsequent diminishing impact on her ability to love) felt so natural I barely noticed it was happening.
Although many reviewers probably disagree with me, the best novel in this series was the second one. Hear me out! I’ve got a point here. Hunter and Sam fall in love slowly and believably, because they both knew (and fully understood) the personality of the other. They were friends, and you can see that at work in their romance. It was believable, sweet, and created the kind of low-key ‘drama’ most people can empathise with. It created a depth to their love. They were people who understood every quirk both positive and negative, who lived together and worked together, and who fell desperately in love because of, and despite that.
“Ready or Not” lacks a lot of that depth. Hope has a crush on a pretty lady at the bar. They meet outside work once or twice, go on one date. To be honest, they actually spend very little time together – the good portion of this book is spent with them apart brooding about things. That brooding, by the way, never really goes anywhere. Hope’s sister kind of just… is there. Not much really happens on the work front . Where is that which elevates this connection above raw lust and basic curiosity? Where is the profound, shared, tender affection?
I suspect I am not meant to find the love and life as rich and fulfilling as that in “Just Three Words” but after such a crackerjack second novel I suspect I had unreasonable expectations. So it’s kind of churlish of me to gripe, and I know this. But… it felt hollow in comparison. Like being served candy-floss for dessert. Fine, you know? And sweet enough, but lacking depth.
But like I said - churlish. This is a damn fine book. Mallory is a damn fine character, who is easy to barrack for, and watching her fall in love is damn satisfying. It probably won't go on my "read again" pile (where "Just Three Words" has sat continuously for the last six months) but it was a great book, a fine conclusion to a pretty excellent series.
Mallory is the final member of her group of friends; slightly pretentious, she has a good heart to go along with her fair chunk of old-American money (and is a super hottie to boot). It’s this last trait (the hottie business, not the money) which first attracts the attention of Hope – a barback at the Savvy girls’ favourite watering hole, Showplace. But Mallory and Hope are from fairly dissimilar backgrounds as these things go. Will they fall in love, etc etc?
Yes. Yes they will.
Brayden actually writes fairly angst-free novels. The tensions which normally drive a romance like this forward instead resolve themselves here without unbelievable conflict or overly dramatic displays of emotion. Brayden has always written dialogue which trends towards the believable, or downright witty in some places, and communication is actively encouraged. The use of the “Midnight Chocolate” trope (wherein the author brings all the characters together to ritually talk) gets all the characters moving together in a natural way, as well as acting as exposition for the reader.
Although the previous two novels set up each of the Savvy girls with different personalities, those differences don’t shine in “Ready or Not.” The recognisable speech patterns from the previous books are not repeated; Sam sounds like Hunter, sounds like Brooklyn, sounds like Mallory. This actually caught me off guard – with all the groundwork laid in the previous two novels, it broke me out of suspension that the characters would suddenly behave and speak like clones of the same person. So weird.
Mallory, although not immune from this new fad for having dialogue interchangeable with anyone else, has the advantage that we as readers are seeing through her eyes. That saves the novel, frankly, because Mallory is a sympathetic character – no small feat of writing considering she is openly a snobby control-freak. It is a high compliment when a writer builds a character with pressing flaws which are then worked through properly and slowly over the course of the novel. The easement of those flaws (and their subsequent diminishing impact on her ability to love) felt so natural I barely noticed it was happening.
Although many reviewers probably disagree with me, the best novel in this series was the second one. Hear me out! I’ve got a point here. Hunter and Sam fall in love slowly and believably, because they both knew (and fully understood) the personality of the other. They were friends, and you can see that at work in their romance. It was believable, sweet, and created the kind of low-key ‘drama’ most people can empathise with. It created a depth to their love. They were people who understood every quirk both positive and negative, who lived together and worked together, and who fell desperately in love because of, and despite that.
“Ready or Not” lacks a lot of that depth. Hope has a crush on a pretty lady at the bar. They meet outside work once or twice, go on one date. To be honest, they actually spend very little time together – the good portion of this book is spent with them apart brooding about things. That brooding, by the way, never really goes anywhere. Hope’s sister kind of just… is there. Not much really happens on the work front . Where is that which elevates this connection above raw lust and basic curiosity? Where is the profound, shared, tender affection?
I suspect I am not meant to find the love and life as rich and fulfilling as that in “Just Three Words” but after such a crackerjack second novel I suspect I had unreasonable expectations. So it’s kind of churlish of me to gripe, and I know this. But… it felt hollow in comparison. Like being served candy-floss for dessert. Fine, you know? And sweet enough, but lacking depth.
But like I said - churlish. This is a damn fine book. Mallory is a damn fine character, who is easy to barrack for, and watching her fall in love is damn satisfying. It probably won't go on my "read again" pile (where "Just Three Words" has sat continuously for the last six months) but it was a great book, a fine conclusion to a pretty excellent series.
March 18, 2019
This was a great finale to the Soho Loft series.
These books were very enjoyable to read. Each one had genuine romance, intriguing side stories, interesting secondary characters, and made me feel things.
There are a few things that I think Melissa Brayden should retire, though, from overuse.
Things going white in the throes of passion and bringing attention to non-sequiturs.
Anyhow, I loved these books. I can't imagine there is anyone other than me that hasn't read these, but if you haven't, then what are you waiting for?
These books were very enjoyable to read. Each one had genuine romance, intriguing side stories, interesting secondary characters, and made me feel things.
There are a few things that I think Melissa Brayden should retire, though, from overuse.
Things going white in the throes of passion and bringing attention to non-sequiturs.
Anyhow, I loved these books. I can't imagine there is anyone other than me that hasn't read these, but if you haven't, then what are you waiting for?
November 23, 2015
2.5
Well I hate (like, really hate) to be the one to break the Brayden spell but... What was that??
By far my least favorite novel by this author. Of course, the writing is great, it always is (although I have to admit I got tired really fast of all the way-too-perfect banter that is way too unrealistic and way too similar between what are supposed to be very different characters), but the content, ugh.
Let's see. There is absolutely nothing exciting about Ready Or Not.
Nothing like falling in love at first sight with the worst person possible, like Jessica and Brooklyn.
Nothing like realising you're in love with your best friend, like Hunter and Sam.
Hope and Mallory are doing it the really traditional way.
I was bored. I nearly didn't make it to the end. And it's Brayden . So I forced myself. But my favorite scenes were the ones where I got a glimpse of Hunter and Sam together and when you're that interested in a secondary couple, you know something's not right!
This one is just too stereotypical for me. The laid back sexy bartender/owner from a poor background with the rich workaholic control freak. The drama surrounding Mallory's parents, as if marriages were never about love in the wealthy world. Hope's sister who does a complete 180 the moment she meets a guy she falls madly in love with and runs off with. I didn't remember Melissa Brayden's novels to be that cheesy.
Now I just want to read Just Three Words again :( *sigh*.
Well I hate (like, really hate) to be the one to break the Brayden spell but... What was that??
By far my least favorite novel by this author. Of course, the writing is great, it always is (although I have to admit I got tired really fast of all the way-too-perfect banter that is way too unrealistic and way too similar between what are supposed to be very different characters), but the content, ugh.
Let's see. There is absolutely nothing exciting about Ready Or Not.
Nothing like falling in love at first sight with the worst person possible, like Jessica and Brooklyn.
Nothing like realising you're in love with your best friend, like Hunter and Sam.
Hope and Mallory are doing it the really traditional way.
I was bored. I nearly didn't make it to the end. And it's Brayden . So I forced myself. But my favorite scenes were the ones where I got a glimpse of Hunter and Sam together and when you're that interested in a secondary couple, you know something's not right!
This one is just too stereotypical for me. The laid back sexy bartender/owner from a poor background with the rich workaholic control freak. The drama surrounding Mallory's parents, as if marriages were never about love in the wealthy world. Hope's sister who does a complete 180 the moment she meets a guy she falls madly in love with and runs off with. I didn't remember Melissa Brayden's novels to be that cheesy.
Now I just want to read Just Three Words again :( *sigh*.
October 13, 2015
Note: This ARC was provided by NetGalley & Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
Find the following review posted on my blog - FarNerdy.
Okay, first off - we should all know by now that anything Melissa Brayden writes is pure gold. This is fact, not opinion. Glad we got that out of the way.
Now on to the review:
OH MY GOODNESS!! This is such a bittersweet review to leave as I am SOO sad to see the Soho Savvy series come to an end! (Okay, fangirling tendencies will cease now) I even admit to shedding some tears when I read the final line in this novel. I mean, I knew it would happen, and therefore not ashamed to admit it. But, despite that feeling, Melissa Brayden has done it yet again and gone out with a bang with her final novel in this trilogy, Ready or Not. After watching her three best friends find love, Soho Savvy leader Mallory Spencer is beginning to feel like the fifth wheel. In walks Hope Sanders, "hot bartender" and owner of the Savvy ladies' favorite chill spot, Showplace. Pursuing Mallory until she finally caves after a bet is won, Hope and Mallory begin a relationship that blossoms into the unexpected for both women. While her friends watch the relationship pan out from the sidelines (with copious amounts of encouragement no less), Mallory and Hope tentatively step out of their comfort zones to pursue it to the utmost extent.
Aside from the obvious, let me explain what I loved about this novel. I'll be upfront and honest in saying that Mallory hasn't exactly been my favorite character amongst the Savvy novels, or the women involved for that matter. Truth be told, my absolute favorite character in the entire series is Jessica Lennox, Brooklyn's love interest and eventual girlfriend. However, that does not mean that I wasn't extremely happy with this story and the conclusion of the Savvy series. Mallory's story was just as important as the rest of them, and the novel exuded the same charm, character development, wonderful dialogue, and quirky backdrop that graced the rest of the series. I enjoyed learning more about Mallory as I had the other Savvy ladies, as well as learning her faults. And Hope was a fantastic character - all tough and hardy when first examined, but eventually seen as a softie with a big heart that was her true form. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially seeing as it lived up to my, admittedly, high expectations when going in to the novel. Ms. Brayden has ended the series on such a high note, that I could only hope to see other series of similar caliber like this one from her in the future. In truth, I loved how the romance build-up between Mallory and Hope wasn't the ONLY plot line to the novel. Though I understand it was the primary one, it was nice to see other events play out in the background, but yet not out of the spotlight. I would have loved to have an entire novel However, witnessing Mallory and Hope's relationship unfold over "mundane" things such as lobster rolls and business suits was still unique and beautiful in it's own, and in such a way that I have come to realize only Melissa Brayden can convey.
I'm sorry, but I do have to take a moment here to gush about Melissa Brayden for a second. If you haven't read any of her novels, and somehow this one is the one that caught your eye - don't hesitate. Read it. I do think it is important to read ALL of the Soho Savvy novels, but Ms. Brayden makes it entirely possible to read them out of order if you feel the need. However, if you're considering reading all of Brayden's novels - I couldn't recommend it more. Take the time out of your life and really sit down with her books. Melissa Brayden is an author that can truly capture your soul with her words. It genuinely feels as if you're listening to one of your best and closest friends tell you the story of her life when you read her works. Her dialogue is funny and light, yet still important and essential to the story plot. The women she writes about are unique, personable, completely relatable, and entirely crush-worthy in so many ways for any "type". Her character development, her real-life situations, even the pets she writes about to some of her characters! - everything is spot on. There is no question that Ms. Brayden really deep-dives the novels she writes, spending the time necessary (plus some) to get it right. Not just for her as an author, but for her readers as well. Melissa Brayden has quickly become my favorite author of this genre, and has even inched up to one of my favorite authors of all-time, sharing with other top contenders such as Jane Austen, J.K. Rowling, and Louisa May Alcott.
Bottom line: the book is fantastic. And honestly, was there ever really any doubt that it wouldn't be? :)
Rating: ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
Find the following review posted on my blog - FarNerdy.
Okay, first off - we should all know by now that anything Melissa Brayden writes is pure gold. This is fact, not opinion. Glad we got that out of the way.
Now on to the review:
OH MY GOODNESS!! This is such a bittersweet review to leave as I am SOO sad to see the Soho Savvy series come to an end! (Okay, fangirling tendencies will cease now) I even admit to shedding some tears when I read the final line in this novel. I mean, I knew it would happen, and therefore not ashamed to admit it. But, despite that feeling, Melissa Brayden has done it yet again and gone out with a bang with her final novel in this trilogy, Ready or Not. After watching her three best friends find love, Soho Savvy leader Mallory Spencer is beginning to feel like the fifth wheel. In walks Hope Sanders, "hot bartender" and owner of the Savvy ladies' favorite chill spot, Showplace. Pursuing Mallory until she finally caves after a bet is won, Hope and Mallory begin a relationship that blossoms into the unexpected for both women. While her friends watch the relationship pan out from the sidelines (with copious amounts of encouragement no less), Mallory and Hope tentatively step out of their comfort zones to pursue it to the utmost extent.
Aside from the obvious, let me explain what I loved about this novel. I'll be upfront and honest in saying that Mallory hasn't exactly been my favorite character amongst the Savvy novels, or the women involved for that matter. Truth be told, my absolute favorite character in the entire series is Jessica Lennox, Brooklyn's love interest and eventual girlfriend. However, that does not mean that I wasn't extremely happy with this story and the conclusion of the Savvy series. Mallory's story was just as important as the rest of them, and the novel exuded the same charm, character development, wonderful dialogue, and quirky backdrop that graced the rest of the series. I enjoyed learning more about Mallory as I had the other Savvy ladies, as well as learning her faults. And Hope was a fantastic character - all tough and hardy when first examined, but eventually seen as a softie with a big heart that was her true form. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially seeing as it lived up to my, admittedly, high expectations when going in to the novel. Ms. Brayden has ended the series on such a high note, that I could only hope to see other series of similar caliber like this one from her in the future. In truth, I loved how the romance build-up between Mallory and Hope wasn't the ONLY plot line to the novel. Though I understand it was the primary one, it was nice to see other events play out in the background, but yet not out of the spotlight. I would have loved to have an entire novel However, witnessing Mallory and Hope's relationship unfold over "mundane" things such as lobster rolls and business suits was still unique and beautiful in it's own, and in such a way that I have come to realize only Melissa Brayden can convey.
I'm sorry, but I do have to take a moment here to gush about Melissa Brayden for a second. If you haven't read any of her novels, and somehow this one is the one that caught your eye - don't hesitate. Read it. I do think it is important to read ALL of the Soho Savvy novels, but Ms. Brayden makes it entirely possible to read them out of order if you feel the need. However, if you're considering reading all of Brayden's novels - I couldn't recommend it more. Take the time out of your life and really sit down with her books. Melissa Brayden is an author that can truly capture your soul with her words. It genuinely feels as if you're listening to one of your best and closest friends tell you the story of her life when you read her works. Her dialogue is funny and light, yet still important and essential to the story plot. The women she writes about are unique, personable, completely relatable, and entirely crush-worthy in so many ways for any "type". Her character development, her real-life situations, even the pets she writes about to some of her characters! - everything is spot on. There is no question that Ms. Brayden really deep-dives the novels she writes, spending the time necessary (plus some) to get it right. Not just for her as an author, but for her readers as well. Melissa Brayden has quickly become my favorite author of this genre, and has even inched up to one of my favorite authors of all-time, sharing with other top contenders such as Jane Austen, J.K. Rowling, and Louisa May Alcott.
Bottom line: the book is fantastic. And honestly, was there ever really any doubt that it wouldn't be? :)
Rating: ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
November 27, 2016
There's something so satisfying, yet sad about finishing a series. Melissa Brayden's writing style and I may have our ongoing tiffs, but it'd be dishonest to leave out the laughs, smirks, and omg's I've experienced with the Savvy ladies. It's awesome to have a well-written series such as this in our lesbian bubble of fiction.
'Ready or Not' is my favorite of the three books. Mallory has an ice queen-ish veneer going on and I'm a sucker for that nine times out of ten. I enjoyed the family drama for the most part and Mallory's chemistry with Hope was believable and a pleasure to follow.
May I point out the "-y" names for guys in this book? Timmy, Freddy, Robby, Teddy, Benny, oh my! The word 'picturesque' was used a noticeable number of times, which isn't the worst, but I highlighted it whenever it showed. I also kind of wish Hope and Mallory had different color/types of eyes because all the references to "big, blue eyes" lost their sparkle when both characters thought it often.
Oh, and I have a tiny personal beef:
Regardless, I can say that 'Ready or Not' is chock full of memorable quotes. The epilogue tugged at my heart. That was the "oh crap, this is the end" moment for me. I'll revisit my favorite moments of the Soho Loft series whenever I need a diabetes-inducing dose of fluff or, of course, midnight chocolate binges. Nice job, Brayden!
'Ready or Not' is my favorite of the three books. Mallory has an ice queen-ish veneer going on and I'm a sucker for that nine times out of ten. I enjoyed the family drama for the most part and Mallory's chemistry with Hope was believable and a pleasure to follow.
May I point out the "-y" names for guys in this book? Timmy, Freddy, Robby, Teddy, Benny, oh my! The word 'picturesque' was used a noticeable number of times, which isn't the worst, but I highlighted it whenever it showed. I also kind of wish Hope and Mallory had different color/types of eyes because all the references to "big, blue eyes" lost their sparkle when both characters thought it often.
Oh, and I have a tiny personal beef:
Regardless, I can say that 'Ready or Not' is chock full of memorable quotes. The epilogue tugged at my heart. That was the "oh crap, this is the end" moment for me. I'll revisit my favorite moments of the Soho Loft series whenever I need a diabetes-inducing dose of fluff or, of course, midnight chocolate binges. Nice job, Brayden!
June 29, 2024
What a lovely cap off to this trilogy and what a way to cement this author as one I’m gonna devour all her works now.
I think the first book in this trilogy was still my fav, but this one was really enjoyable. Mallory was one of my favs from book one; her sort of ice queen, yet also caretaker and leader of the group with a super big heart that she just doesn’t show everyone vibes are right up my alley. And I was only proven right in my assessment of that once we got her pov here. I adored her. After Brooklyn, I think shes my fav. I’ve got some minor crushes going on with her and Jessica tbh. And I ended up really enjoying Hope, too. I wasn’t sure at first, she took a little bit for me to warm up to her, the initial flirting banter was fun but had me worried that Hope was kinda more on the cocky side than just confident (that’s a real thin line, for me personally, and I find things come of as cocky more than most ppl probably would) but luckily that didn’t end up being the case whatsoever. I enjoyed their dynamic quite a bit and I reallllly enjoyed the tentative, caring way they were with each other right near the end (esp on Mallory’s end).
The stuff with both their separate families I ended up enjoying almost as much as the extra stuff for Brooklyn and Jessica in book one, and I thought it fleshed each of them out really well. It also felt like we got a few more (maybe my imagination tho) scenes with the friendship gang which I was thrilled by. I was surprised (and also not, bc I’m a sap sometimes) that the midnight chocolate line at the very end hit me that hard. But it did! I’m gonna miss this gang. And I’m very glad I own these audiobooks. They’re all def going to be re-listens for me down the line.
I think the first book in this trilogy was still my fav, but this one was really enjoyable. Mallory was one of my favs from book one; her sort of ice queen, yet also caretaker and leader of the group with a super big heart that she just doesn’t show everyone vibes are right up my alley. And I was only proven right in my assessment of that once we got her pov here. I adored her. After Brooklyn, I think shes my fav. I’ve got some minor crushes going on with her and Jessica tbh. And I ended up really enjoying Hope, too. I wasn’t sure at first, she took a little bit for me to warm up to her, the initial flirting banter was fun but had me worried that Hope was kinda more on the cocky side than just confident (that’s a real thin line, for me personally, and I find things come of as cocky more than most ppl probably would) but luckily that didn’t end up being the case whatsoever. I enjoyed their dynamic quite a bit and I reallllly enjoyed the tentative, caring way they were with each other right near the end (esp on Mallory’s end).
The stuff with both their separate families I ended up enjoying almost as much as the extra stuff for Brooklyn and Jessica in book one, and I thought it fleshed each of them out really well. It also felt like we got a few more (maybe my imagination tho) scenes with the friendship gang which I was thrilled by. I was surprised (and also not, bc I’m a sap sometimes) that the midnight chocolate line at the very end hit me that hard. But it did! I’m gonna miss this gang. And I’m very glad I own these audiobooks. They’re all def going to be re-listens for me down the line.
November 9, 2015
It's a Melissa Brayden book - need I say more?! ;-)
I had mixed emotions when finishing the final page of Ready or Not. Whilst it was another outstanding novel by Ms Brayden, it was the end of an era - the final book in the Soho Loft trilogy... No more Savvy ideas and no more reaching for chocolate to participate in the 'midnight chocolate' gatherings!
Oh well, all good things must come to an end... and the Soho Loft series was an amazing journey!
Bring on August 2016 (anticipated release date of Ms Brayden's next book First Position)!
I had mixed emotions when finishing the final page of Ready or Not. Whilst it was another outstanding novel by Ms Brayden, it was the end of an era - the final book in the Soho Loft trilogy... No more Savvy ideas and no more reaching for chocolate to participate in the 'midnight chocolate' gatherings!
Oh well, all good things must come to an end... and the Soho Loft series was an amazing journey!
Bring on August 2016 (anticipated release date of Ms Brayden's next book First Position)!
February 22, 2017
4.5 stars. Previous read - 4 stars.
If you are thinking of re-reading or even just starting the series for the first time, I would recommend listening to the audiobooks. The narrator really added to the pleasure of this series. When I first read this book, it was my "least" favorite of the three, but upon reread I enjoyed it more but not quite enough to up it to a 5 star book. But only because it dragged a bit around 2/3 mark but then it quickly picked up steam again. A very satisfying ending to a fabulous series. (Just Three Words is still my favorite, maybe because Hunter & Samantha are my favorite characters.)
If you are thinking of re-reading or even just starting the series for the first time, I would recommend listening to the audiobooks. The narrator really added to the pleasure of this series. When I first read this book, it was my "least" favorite of the three, but upon reread I enjoyed it more but not quite enough to up it to a 5 star book. But only because it dragged a bit around 2/3 mark but then it quickly picked up steam again. A very satisfying ending to a fabulous series. (Just Three Words is still my favorite, maybe because Hunter & Samantha are my favorite characters.)
October 27, 2015
POW! BOOM! SMASH! Melissa Brayden strikes again. The women is a superhero with a pen. She literally can write dialogue like no one else. "Ready or Not" was unbelievable. The final book in the Soho Series may actually be its best, and that says a lot.
Mallory Spencer, I could not be more excited to see her journey. In the past two novels she was a character that I always thought was fascinating. All business, high society and a heart of gold. Mallory puts the needs of her friends and the needs of Savvy above everything. She is very much the backbone of her the company.
Hope Sanders is the Hot Bartender. We were briefly introduced to her in "Just Three Words", sending free cocktails Mallory's way. Hope is the proprietor of Showplace, the Savvy ladies go to after hours bar. She has not had anything handed to her, and has to work her tail off for every one of her successes in life. Hope is nothing like Mallory, but everything she needs.
The chemistry is off the charts. The swoon factor is high. I promise you this book will make you smile. I had such high hopes for this book, and Melissa Brayden leapt right over them.
Note: This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley & Bold Strokes book in exchange for an honest review.
https://theromanticreaderblog.wordpre...
Mallory Spencer, I could not be more excited to see her journey. In the past two novels she was a character that I always thought was fascinating. All business, high society and a heart of gold. Mallory puts the needs of her friends and the needs of Savvy above everything. She is very much the backbone of her the company.
Hope Sanders is the Hot Bartender. We were briefly introduced to her in "Just Three Words", sending free cocktails Mallory's way. Hope is the proprietor of Showplace, the Savvy ladies go to after hours bar. She has not had anything handed to her, and has to work her tail off for every one of her successes in life. Hope is nothing like Mallory, but everything she needs.
The chemistry is off the charts. The swoon factor is high. I promise you this book will make you smile. I had such high hopes for this book, and Melissa Brayden leapt right over them.
Note: This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley & Bold Strokes book in exchange for an honest review.
https://theromanticreaderblog.wordpre...
July 24, 2021
Even though I feel that the first book was the best among the three, I guess this one will stay with me the longest as I could relate most with Mallory.
Amazing series and something I’ll probably think fondly about for the next few days.
Amazing series and something I’ll probably think fondly about for the next few days.
July 21, 2022
Didn’t love it, wasn’t bad either.
I now hate the word picturesque and I have to thank this Soho series for it.
I now hate the word picturesque and I have to thank this Soho series for it.
October 31, 2015
4.5 stars
Mallory Spencer likes being in charge. As the public face of the advertising agency she started with her three best friends, she is elegant, articulate and well dressed. Not really looking for a partner, she rebuffs advances from women who are interested, and doesn’t really date…until she comes across the determined bartender at their local bar.
Hope Sanders is fighting her way up from a crappy background and no education. Through hard work she is now the owner of the bar, and creating and mixing drinks is her specialty. Her twin sister is in trouble with bad people, and Mallory has sparked her interest with the potential for something more in her life than work.
Chalk and cheese, the two women have a lot to overcome before they have any potential to make a go of it.
This is the last book in the Soho Loft series by Brayden, which shows in the clear narrative strands and wonderful characterisations in the book. Like the previous books in the trilogy, “Kiss the Girl” and “Just Three Words”, this one can easily be read as an independent book, so don’t worry if you read them out of sequence.
Mallory is nicknamed “Park Avenue” because of her family heritage, and Hope is nicknamed “Hot Bartender” for obvious reasons. There are elements of the stereotypes here, but part of the joy of the book is how Brayden requires the characters to look beyond the stereotypes to see the individuals. While a little simplistic in its application, the intention is there and Brayden knows enough to keep it light for this sort of story.
Light, clever and fun, this book fits well within the Brayden stable of books. I really like her characterisations and the way the main group of four women support each other. They all have their own quirks, but are smart, compassionate and creative characters. This is a delight all the way through and I highly recommend it.
Mallory Spencer likes being in charge. As the public face of the advertising agency she started with her three best friends, she is elegant, articulate and well dressed. Not really looking for a partner, she rebuffs advances from women who are interested, and doesn’t really date…until she comes across the determined bartender at their local bar.
Hope Sanders is fighting her way up from a crappy background and no education. Through hard work she is now the owner of the bar, and creating and mixing drinks is her specialty. Her twin sister is in trouble with bad people, and Mallory has sparked her interest with the potential for something more in her life than work.
Chalk and cheese, the two women have a lot to overcome before they have any potential to make a go of it.
This is the last book in the Soho Loft series by Brayden, which shows in the clear narrative strands and wonderful characterisations in the book. Like the previous books in the trilogy, “Kiss the Girl” and “Just Three Words”, this one can easily be read as an independent book, so don’t worry if you read them out of sequence.
Mallory is nicknamed “Park Avenue” because of her family heritage, and Hope is nicknamed “Hot Bartender” for obvious reasons. There are elements of the stereotypes here, but part of the joy of the book is how Brayden requires the characters to look beyond the stereotypes to see the individuals. While a little simplistic in its application, the intention is there and Brayden knows enough to keep it light for this sort of story.
Light, clever and fun, this book fits well within the Brayden stable of books. I really like her characterisations and the way the main group of four women support each other. They all have their own quirks, but are smart, compassionate and creative characters. This is a delight all the way through and I highly recommend it.
October 21, 2015
All hail Queen Brayden!!
Brayden writes with a Directors mind which means the pacing of her books are always exquisite - every scene is there for a reason and there is no extraneous dialogue or clutter. She is also the master of believable angst -- none of the 'oh would you just sit down and have a conversation with each other?!' frustrations so prevalent throughout the lesrom genre.
I loved Ready or Not. I loved it. Such a fitting end to such a well-crafted series. Yet again I was transported, feeling like I was at Midnight Chocolate along with the rest of the Savvy women. And it was so fulfilling to see Mallory get her happily ever after in a way that was totally true to what we've come to know of her character.
I could gush and rave for hours -- oustanding, moving, funny and swoon-worthy -- Brayden has done it again.
Brayden writes with a Directors mind which means the pacing of her books are always exquisite - every scene is there for a reason and there is no extraneous dialogue or clutter. She is also the master of believable angst -- none of the 'oh would you just sit down and have a conversation with each other?!' frustrations so prevalent throughout the lesrom genre.
I loved Ready or Not. I loved it. Such a fitting end to such a well-crafted series. Yet again I was transported, feeling like I was at Midnight Chocolate along with the rest of the Savvy women. And it was so fulfilling to see Mallory get her happily ever after in a way that was totally true to what we've come to know of her character.
I could gush and rave for hours -- oustanding, moving, funny and swoon-worthy -- Brayden has done it again.
October 10, 2015
* ARC received via NetGalley.
Ready or Not is more of what you expect from Melissa Brayden's Soho series. Fun characters, great banter between all the friends, and a sweet romance story. Hope and Mallory couldn't be more different if they tried but they mesh really well and the chemistry is very well written. All the other ladies from past books make an appearance and we get a lovely surprise from one of the couples. The only negative I'd have to give the book is that it's the last(?) book in the series. I'm going to miss this group of friends!
Ready or Not is more of what you expect from Melissa Brayden's Soho series. Fun characters, great banter between all the friends, and a sweet romance story. Hope and Mallory couldn't be more different if they tried but they mesh really well and the chemistry is very well written. All the other ladies from past books make an appearance and we get a lovely surprise from one of the couples. The only negative I'd have to give the book is that it's the last(?) book in the series. I'm going to miss this group of friends!
January 17, 2023
Series rating - 4 stars
Disappointing end to the series, I loved the chemistry but I felt like there was too much going on and a few of the points got lost dealing with the surface level chaos than creating a really strong justification for the rich girl, poor girl trope.
I did appreciate how we got to see a lot more of the other characters from previous books. It was nice to catch up on them and their partnered bliss. They added to the charm of the novel, however, it felt like the interactions weren't always directly contributing to the romance which is a shame since anything where the characters are completely different need that attention to sell it to me.
Overall, different characters introduced felt like plot points that were meant to help justify the couple but didn't really push it far enough. There was a "twist" near the end to help warm any cold feet in our main characters, but it felt so rushed and anti-climactic. It seemed like a mini-twist you would introduce closer to the halfway point to prep the reader for dropping those big feelings.
Not quite up to my expectations of the other two books in the series but it was nice to finish off the arc. I was reluctant to start the series because the covers don't really indicate that it is filled with quirky pairings and playful banter. If you like the lighter side of romance novels you may want to give this series a try. It is 8 years old now, and some of the language is dated (the amount of times "you guys" is used by every single character in this novel is A LOT), but the stories are not overly problematic and do capture the romance and drama of a long term friend group.
Disappointing end to the series, I loved the chemistry but I felt like there was too much going on and a few of the points got lost dealing with the surface level chaos than creating a really strong justification for the rich girl, poor girl trope.
I did appreciate how we got to see a lot more of the other characters from previous books. It was nice to catch up on them and their partnered bliss. They added to the charm of the novel, however, it felt like the interactions weren't always directly contributing to the romance which is a shame since anything where the characters are completely different need that attention to sell it to me.
Overall, different characters introduced felt like plot points that were meant to help justify the couple but didn't really push it far enough. There was a "twist" near the end to help warm any cold feet in our main characters, but it felt so rushed and anti-climactic. It seemed like a mini-twist you would introduce closer to the halfway point to prep the reader for dropping those big feelings.
Not quite up to my expectations of the other two books in the series but it was nice to finish off the arc. I was reluctant to start the series because the covers don't really indicate that it is filled with quirky pairings and playful banter. If you like the lighter side of romance novels you may want to give this series a try. It is 8 years old now, and some of the language is dated (the amount of times "you guys" is used by every single character in this novel is A LOT), but the stories are not overly problematic and do capture the romance and drama of a long term friend group.
December 19, 2015
I enjoyed this more than I expected to, based on other reviews I'd read. When the book started I thought the misconception Mallory had about Hope would be one of those things that's revealed mid way through the story and was pleasantly surprised that it was cleared up early on. The way they developed feelings for each other seemed fairly organic, and they were both interesting characters, with nice chemistry, which made for an enjoyable read.
The sister subplot was ok, even if the major event was telegraphed early on, but the 'bar issue' that cropped up seemed to exist only to provide a reason for a breakup, and the resolution was beyond ridiculous. I could also have lived without the parent subplot as it didn't add anything to the book.
I really wish Ms Brayden would cease her over-reliance on contrived breakups at the 3/4 mark. It happens in every book, and it's getting old. Maybe she could read a Robin Alexander to see that it's possible to write a romance without breaking up the leads.
All in all though, I enjoyed this one, it's better than the second book, but not as good as the first.
The sister subplot was ok, even if the major event was telegraphed early on, but the 'bar issue' that cropped up seemed to exist only to provide a reason for a breakup, and the resolution was beyond ridiculous. I could also have lived without the parent subplot as it didn't add anything to the book.
I really wish Ms Brayden would cease her over-reliance on contrived breakups at the 3/4 mark. It happens in every book, and it's getting old. Maybe she could read a Robin Alexander to see that it's possible to write a romance without breaking up the leads.
All in all though, I enjoyed this one, it's better than the second book, but not as good as the first.
November 19, 2015
Among all the characters in the Soho series, I must say I was least interested in Mallory, so when this book came out, I just read it without much expectations. Turns out, I had so much fun reading this book. This author keep surprising me with her realistic and relatable characters. I've laughed out so much reading through the book,
Sad to see this series being over, but very very happy with the ending. I'm not going to spill any spoilers, but if you like Jess and Brooklyn, you'll love reading this book as well.
I'm really looking forward for other works from this author.
Sad to see this series being over, but very very happy with the ending. I'm not going to spill any spoilers, but if you like Jess and Brooklyn, you'll love reading this book as well.
I'm really looking forward for other works from this author.
July 9, 2016
Another fine romance well put together. Great characters, with interesting scenes between them. I didn't quite like this one as much as the other two books in this series as the plot just felt a bit simplistic, and a tad (dare I say) boring, but it was still enjoyable, and Melissa's writing shines through.
January 16, 2018
I just adored the Soho Loft series all together, the audiobooks are great.
October 9, 2017
This is the third (and last) in a series and I think you're best off reading them in order. This is also the weakest of the three, so it's just as well if you read the others first.
I was looking forward to Mallory's story. She has been the glue that held the series-friends together and the key convert for each individual couple feeling like they'd make it. She's strong and determined and resourceful and I couldn't wait to see how her eventual romance would play out. Unfortunately, the answer is something of a let-down. While she and Hope have a mutual attraction thing going on, it's unclear what it is that would actually draw them together. This discomfort is compounded by Mallory being a huge snobby turd to Hope for much of the first quarter of the book. I already knew she was better than that so it was an unpleasant surprise to find her being such a dipwad.
I liked Hope from the start, though. I liked that she took things easily in stride and pushed back when she needed but more often just let things slide off. If Mallory had needed mellowing, Hope was a good foil for that. And Mallory did, but I felt that was manufactured so it was just awkward.
The middle bits of the book were pretty standard romancy storybits only more poorly supported than I'm used to with Brayden. Most of it rested on "You're hot and different and that's fun." Which is a good start but I never got the feeling it progressed much beyond that point. The ending was just mellow drama. And no, I didn't misspell melodrama. What I mean is mild drama that kept our leads apart long enough for Hope to realize she's being stupid. And yeah, Hope's character changed and got defensively weird for a while. I did like Mallory finally remembering that she's a strong, determined woman who fights for what she wants and that includes the quiet kind of fight that lets the woman she loves know she's going to be there for her no matter what she's going through.
Anyway, this ended up a wobbly three-star read with bits I enjoyed (but more that was only so-so).
A note about Steamy: There are two explicit sex scenes and I was worried for a bit that sex and attraction would be all the two really had in common. Brayden pulled off better when Mallory finally manifested into who I thought she was to begin with. So it turned out well. At any rate, this is the low end of my middle steam tolerance.
I was looking forward to Mallory's story. She has been the glue that held the series-friends together and the key convert for each individual couple feeling like they'd make it. She's strong and determined and resourceful and I couldn't wait to see how her eventual romance would play out. Unfortunately, the answer is something of a let-down. While she and Hope have a mutual attraction thing going on, it's unclear what it is that would actually draw them together. This discomfort is compounded by Mallory being a huge snobby turd to Hope for much of the first quarter of the book. I already knew she was better than that so it was an unpleasant surprise to find her being such a dipwad.
I liked Hope from the start, though. I liked that she took things easily in stride and pushed back when she needed but more often just let things slide off. If Mallory had needed mellowing, Hope was a good foil for that. And Mallory did, but I felt that was manufactured so it was just awkward.
The middle bits of the book were pretty standard romancy storybits only more poorly supported than I'm used to with Brayden. Most of it rested on "You're hot and different and that's fun." Which is a good start but I never got the feeling it progressed much beyond that point. The ending was just mellow drama. And no, I didn't misspell melodrama. What I mean is mild drama that kept our leads apart long enough for Hope to realize she's being stupid. And yeah, Hope's character changed and got defensively weird for a while. I did like Mallory finally remembering that she's a strong, determined woman who fights for what she wants and that includes the quiet kind of fight that lets the woman she loves know she's going to be there for her no matter what she's going through.
Anyway, this ended up a wobbly three-star read with bits I enjoyed (but more that was only so-so).
A note about Steamy: There are two explicit sex scenes and I was worried for a bit that sex and attraction would be all the two really had in common. Brayden pulled off better when Mallory finally manifested into who I thought she was to begin with. So it turned out well. At any rate, this is the low end of my middle steam tolerance.
December 1, 2015
I liked it. I liked it quite much.
I love the 'ice queen' attitude and even though Mallory wasn't such an ice queen (I've seen worse), I liked her personality. I didn't really pay attention to her in previous books, guilty as charged, but she warmed up to me in RoN.
And Hope was a sweetheart.
I did not like the 'sister drama'. I'd survive without it.
As always, the gang was amazing, those scenes I absolutely loved. The chemistry those four have is unbelievable. I'm sad there's no fifth friend, so we won't get another book.
I love the 'ice queen' attitude and even though Mallory wasn't such an ice queen (I've seen worse), I liked her personality. I didn't really pay attention to her in previous books, guilty as charged, but she warmed up to me in RoN.
And Hope was a sweetheart.
I did not like the 'sister drama'. I'd survive without it.
As always, the gang was amazing, those scenes I absolutely loved. The chemistry those four have is unbelievable. I'm sad there's no fifth friend, so we won't get another book.
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