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Back in the Game #1
The Backup Plan
I’m beyond help...
I threw a football before I could walk. Everything in my life revolved around football–and I loved every second. I was a star. Until, suddenly...I wasn’t. Now everyone thinks I’m the monster who killed his best friend. I’m an outcast on campus, silent and alone. Then Taylor Selmer walks back into my life. When will she learn–I’m beyond saving.
I need to save him...
Chase and I used to be friends. But after the accident, nothing was the same. We used to have something special–until we didn’t. But he doesn’t smile anymore. Doesn’t talk. Doesn’t play. It hurts me to see him this way, and I will do everything I can to get him back in the game. Whether he likes it or not.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2018
15 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Jen McLaughlin
35 books1,150 followersJen McLaughlin is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of sexy books with Penguin Random House. Under her pen name, Diane Alberts, she is also a USA TODAY bestselling author of Contemporary Romance with Entangled Publishing. Her first release as Jen McLaughlin, Out of Line, hit the New York Times, USA TODAY and Wall Street Journal lists. She was mentioned in Forbes alongside E. L. James as one of the breakout independent authors to dominate the bestselling lists. She is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.
Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many well-crafted romance books that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many well-crafted romance books that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 26, 2021
2.5 ✨
not much to say, this reminded me of some wattpad stories.
the story had potential but it was very flat, there wasn't much development.
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this will be a cliche-read but at this point I don't care 😌
March 18, 2018
3.5 “Nice romance” Stars
Disclaimer:Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am lowkey mad because our guy didn’t use glasses, they were never mentioned! And you know how big of a fun I am of those glasses on the cover. *wiggles eyebrows*
We follow to childhood friends that somehow the encounter themselves in an enemy-type-situationbut not really. Our main guy has survivors-guilt and the mission of our main girl is to try and help him to graduate from college.
The summary of my feelings for this book is: IT WAS FINE, GOOD, OKAY.
But that’s the thing, there was nothing exceptional. To be honest is not a book I am gonna remember for a long time. Is a nice, fluffy, romantic read to have when you are bored.
The characters were good. Taylor was funny, intelligent and rational. Chase was moody, hot but an overall good guy. I do wish we have had more scenes with other characters, I think 75% of this book was just Chase_Taylor.
The plot was then again okay. It was fun watching their interactions and how their relationship grew, but something bothered me. For this book to be 254 pages, there was little depth on the tragic incident our mc goes through, and the ending felt a little bit rushed. The problem happened around 81% through, so it gave little time to really wrap everything good.
The relationship was nice. It didn’t make me feel butterflies, but it did make me smile at how cute it could be. The insecurities they had about each other, were understandable yet weird. I mean they came at the moment they were good, it was something like this. We made up, then 1 minute later we were insecure, then the next minute they were arguing then the next minute they were kissing again. Too rushed and a bit repetitive. Sex scenes were good, awkward, realistic and most importantly the consent was perfect.
The highlight of this book was Taylor and her sarcasm and witty comebacks.
Honestly is a good story, many of you are gonna like it and even love it, but for me, there wasn’t anything outstanding.
“People love to see hate, but when you show them something nicer, something prettier, they look away.”
Disclaimer:Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am lowkey mad because our guy didn’t use glasses, they were never mentioned! And you know how big of a fun I am of those glasses on the cover. *wiggles eyebrows*
We follow to childhood friends that somehow the encounter themselves in an enemy-type-situation
The summary of my feelings for this book is: IT WAS FINE, GOOD, OKAY.
But that’s the thing, there was nothing exceptional. To be honest is not a book I am gonna remember for a long time. Is a nice, fluffy, romantic read to have when you are bored.
The characters were good. Taylor was funny, intelligent and rational. Chase was moody, hot but an overall good guy. I do wish we have had more scenes with other characters, I think 75% of this book was just Chase_Taylor.
The plot was then again okay. It was fun watching their interactions and how their relationship grew, but something bothered me. For this book to be 254 pages, there was little depth on the tragic incident our mc goes through, and the ending felt a little bit rushed. The problem happened around 81% through, so it gave little time to really wrap everything good.
The relationship was nice. It didn’t make me feel butterflies, but it did make me smile at how cute it could be. The insecurities they had about each other, were understandable yet weird. I mean they came at the moment they were good, it was something like this. We made up, then 1 minute later we were insecure, then the next minute they were arguing then the next minute they were kissing again. Too rushed and a bit repetitive. Sex scenes were good, awkward, realistic and most importantly the consent was perfect.
The highlight of this book was Taylor and her sarcasm and witty comebacks.
Honestly is a good story, many of you are gonna like it and even love it, but for me, there wasn’t anything outstanding.
March 11, 2018
Great read. Even got a few misty moments from me too.
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One of the reasons I usually stay away from young adult stories is the amount of angst the characters go through. With some authors the entire book is filled with it and it can exhaust the reader. My life has enough in it already, thank you!
So when I realized that this book was going to follow the YA theme, I have to admit, I was dreading it a bit. But I was drawn to the theme so in I went. However, I was proven wrong. This author told a story without overloading us on the angst and drama. It was there but for some reason it balanced with the character development. It made sense and worked well with the overall plot.
The theme was familiar yet different. The author threw in many twists which fueled the interest and kept it true to life. Then when the romance heated up, I loved the deep understanding and connection these two had. Sexy scenes and true caring for and about each other actually got me misty-eyed a few times.
This a special story that is definitely worth your time. My first book by Jen McLaughlin, but not the last.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
One of the reasons I usually stay away from young adult stories is the amount of angst the characters go through. With some authors the entire book is filled with it and it can exhaust the reader. My life has enough in it already, thank you!
So when I realized that this book was going to follow the YA theme, I have to admit, I was dreading it a bit. But I was drawn to the theme so in I went. However, I was proven wrong. This author told a story without overloading us on the angst and drama. It was there but for some reason it balanced with the character development. It made sense and worked well with the overall plot.
The theme was familiar yet different. The author threw in many twists which fueled the interest and kept it true to life. Then when the romance heated up, I loved the deep understanding and connection these two had. Sexy scenes and true caring for and about each other actually got me misty-eyed a few times.
This a special story that is definitely worth your time. My first book by Jen McLaughlin, but not the last.
February 21, 2018
Chase stopped living his life the day his best friend died. He blames himself for the accident and now has lost his way. It doesn't help that others see it that way too but the court cleared him. He has no criminal record. He is still in college but he doesn't talk to anyone. As far as he's concerned his life is over. He's a shell of his former self. The charming, football lover is gone.
Taylor and Chase where childhood friends. She wants to save Chase but it will be an uphill struggle. He's given up. She's determined to help turn his life around. Taylor enrols at the same college and is in hot pursuit.
When the world turns it's back on you. It takes a special kind of magic to bring you back. Taylor is smart, beautiful, sweet and funny. She's everything Chase never realised he could have.
This is a sweet intense romance about getting a second chance. 4 stars out of 5. It's nicely written and has a few twists.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Taylor and Chase where childhood friends. She wants to save Chase but it will be an uphill struggle. He's given up. She's determined to help turn his life around. Taylor enrols at the same college and is in hot pursuit.
When the world turns it's back on you. It takes a special kind of magic to bring you back. Taylor is smart, beautiful, sweet and funny. She's everything Chase never realised he could have.
This is a sweet intense romance about getting a second chance. 4 stars out of 5. It's nicely written and has a few twists.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2018
The story really had potential but the characters ruined it for me.
Chase was a jerk, plain and simple. I mean i get it, what happened to his friend was sad but it was not his fault and he knows it, still he blames himself and is in the process of ruining his life. Everyone thinks he killed his friend and all either hate him or are scared of him.
He is cocky and an asshole, he could've given everyone that called him a freak the middle finger and moved the hell on.
Then comes Taylor who gets payed by Chase's father to help his son pass his classes, she was the stereotypical heroine in the book who couldn't get enough of the hot guy who treated her like shit. They make me sick!
Chase was a jerk, plain and simple. I mean i get it, what happened to his friend was sad but it was not his fault and he knows it, still he blames himself and is in the process of ruining his life. Everyone thinks he killed his friend and all either hate him or are scared of him.
He is cocky and an asshole, he could've given everyone that called him a freak the middle finger and moved the hell on.
Then comes Taylor who gets payed by Chase's father to help his son pass his classes, she was the stereotypical heroine in the book who couldn't get enough of the hot guy who treated her like shit. They make me sick!
February 20, 2018
Anyone who knows me knows that second chance love stories are absolute crack to me and if the hero is a complete alphahole - then it's even better! I thought this story was fantastic! I really enjoyed Chase and Taylor's story and thought it was passionate, compelling and so addicting!
When Taylor Selmer decides to take it upon herself to save Chase Maxwell from his painful past, she never could have expected that the sweet friend from her childhood would turn into a moody and reclusive (beast of a) man who shied away from everyone. I love that despite him being an outcast on campus and public enemy number one, her loyalty and determination to bring him out of his shell was always at the forefront of her mind and goals. But when lines get crossed and emotions get involved will Taylor's hidden secrets jeopardize her new found love with Chase?
I really liked the story alot. My favorite part was the first half where Chase was a complete bastard to Taylor. I enjoyed the spitfire banter and the back and forth between them highlighting Taylor's sassiness and spirit and absolute dedication to healing Chase. While I loved their connection and passion, I did feel that the story felt somewhat rushed at times. I would have liked to have seen the resolution with his team and teammates who still held a grudge against him after what happened. Likewise the flip in his cold behavior to suddenly warming up to her seemed almost random and out of the blue.
All in all however, while I had mixed feelings about this book, it was a solid read and I look forward to more from this author in the future. I would like to thank Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
When Taylor Selmer decides to take it upon herself to save Chase Maxwell from his painful past, she never could have expected that the sweet friend from her childhood would turn into a moody and reclusive (beast of a) man who shied away from everyone. I love that despite him being an outcast on campus and public enemy number one, her loyalty and determination to bring him out of his shell was always at the forefront of her mind and goals. But when lines get crossed and emotions get involved will Taylor's hidden secrets jeopardize her new found love with Chase?
I really liked the story alot. My favorite part was the first half where Chase was a complete bastard to Taylor. I enjoyed the spitfire banter and the back and forth between them highlighting Taylor's sassiness and spirit and absolute dedication to healing Chase. While I loved their connection and passion, I did feel that the story felt somewhat rushed at times. I would have liked to have seen the resolution with his team and teammates who still held a grudge against him after what happened. Likewise the flip in his cold behavior to suddenly warming up to her seemed almost random and out of the blue.
All in all however, while I had mixed feelings about this book, it was a solid read and I look forward to more from this author in the future. I would like to thank Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
February 23, 2018
Jen McLaughlin’s ‘The Backup Plan’ isn’t quite what I’m used to each time I dive into a book of hers. This one’s a New Adult read with specific collegiate issues of future plans, identity-crises, leftover teenage angst and overflowing hormones that I admittedly struggle to get into as the years roll on. It means as well, that my own expectations require a bit of adjustment.
Still, I thought it started off quite well, as Mclaughlin pits Taylor’s sass and never-say-die attitude against the piss-poor one of Chase in a rather odd arrangement by Chases father. The rough start is expected, but delicious in a way doubles the tension and the release of it later.
I thought the pacing seemed a little awkward in parts nonetheless; the sudden change in personality that Chase seemed to display at the quarter-mark of the story—it felt almost like a personality-transplant—when he turned from jerk to sweet boyfriend for one, along with the quickness with which Taylor fell for Chase’s own funny and sometimes unpleasant brand of unpredictability.
Mix in a conniving ex-girlfriend (ugh) and a manipulative father and things really go awry to the point where you wonder if the irony is such that only Taylor and Chase can’t see that they’re the ones being played. In the end, the small fires do add up to create a conflict I could see happening from a mile away, and the resolution is one that you always hoped they would have taken before it all blew up in their faces anyway.
However, ‘The Backup Plan’ does sit squarely in the category of college drama, complete with a dose of typical high-school ‘politics’ with a hazy but hopeful HFN. Still, there’s nothing really unexpected here that threw me off and sometimes, there’s actual relief in predictability.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
Still, I thought it started off quite well, as Mclaughlin pits Taylor’s sass and never-say-die attitude against the piss-poor one of Chase in a rather odd arrangement by Chases father. The rough start is expected, but delicious in a way doubles the tension and the release of it later.
I thought the pacing seemed a little awkward in parts nonetheless; the sudden change in personality that Chase seemed to display at the quarter-mark of the story—it felt almost like a personality-transplant—when he turned from jerk to sweet boyfriend for one, along with the quickness with which Taylor fell for Chase’s own funny and sometimes unpleasant brand of unpredictability.
Mix in a conniving ex-girlfriend (ugh) and a manipulative father and things really go awry to the point where you wonder if the irony is such that only Taylor and Chase can’t see that they’re the ones being played. In the end, the small fires do add up to create a conflict I could see happening from a mile away, and the resolution is one that you always hoped they would have taken before it all blew up in their faces anyway.
However, ‘The Backup Plan’ does sit squarely in the category of college drama, complete with a dose of typical high-school ‘politics’ with a hazy but hopeful HFN. Still, there’s nothing really unexpected here that threw me off and sometimes, there’s actual relief in predictability.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
March 22, 2018
3.5 stars
March 10, 2018
Full review on my blog: https://starstoconstellations.wordpre...
Another first for me this month. As a Jen McLaughlin premiere, I can't say I'm disappointed yet I'm having a hard time formulating thoughts on it. I definitely did not hate it, although I did not love it either. I liked this book, it had a lot of prospects but failed a little in the execution. I believe the book started off well, it just could have been developed in some aspects.
The Backup plan is without a doubt a fantastically well-written book that will grip you into the story right from the begging. I read this book in a day. It's a novel full of passion, intrigue, fervour and engaging characters, even though I had some problems with certain personality traits.
In my opinion, the pacing of this book was a little rushed and some issues between the characters were left unexplained and out in the open, for example, something that did not sit well with me was: How short the amount of time in which Chase changed his attitude toward Taylor was or The quickness in which they fell for each other or even The 360-turn that Chase's father displayed.
Another thing I regard as negative was how we had little to none insight on their past friendship, seeing as it was only mentioned briefly and when directly correlated to the topic in question in the present. Additionally, their friends Anna and Bryce only appeared in the story very shortly and you barely got to know them or their relationship with the main characters. Lastly, the situations focused on the car accident could have been expanded, it didn't feel as poignant as it could and should.
Nonetheless, this novel has a little bit of everything. It portrays many college student related issues, deals with self-discovery, friendships and romance. A perfect read for someone currently attending university.
The duelled point of view was a plus for me, it kept me engaged seeing both Chase and Taylor's perspectives of the situations, it added a lot of substance to the book, pulling you in and making you feel their emotions with them as if you were apart of their story. Overall, I liked the characters and I liked the plot, it just needed a few more compelling elements and improvement.
In conclusion, I recommend this book. It is a heartwarming, easy, fun and enjoyable read that will absolutely entertain you. The author's writing style is beautiful, simple and fluid, which is one of the best parts of this book for me. It has a few tropes, but it's a book worth reading.
Another first for me this month. As a Jen McLaughlin premiere, I can't say I'm disappointed yet I'm having a hard time formulating thoughts on it. I definitely did not hate it, although I did not love it either. I liked this book, it had a lot of prospects but failed a little in the execution. I believe the book started off well, it just could have been developed in some aspects.
The Backup plan is without a doubt a fantastically well-written book that will grip you into the story right from the begging. I read this book in a day. It's a novel full of passion, intrigue, fervour and engaging characters, even though I had some problems with certain personality traits.
In my opinion, the pacing of this book was a little rushed and some issues between the characters were left unexplained and out in the open, for example, something that did not sit well with me was: How short the amount of time in which Chase changed his attitude toward Taylor was or The quickness in which they fell for each other or even The 360-turn that Chase's father displayed.
Another thing I regard as negative was how we had little to none insight on their past friendship, seeing as it was only mentioned briefly and when directly correlated to the topic in question in the present. Additionally, their friends Anna and Bryce only appeared in the story very shortly and you barely got to know them or their relationship with the main characters. Lastly, the situations focused on the car accident could have been expanded, it didn't feel as poignant as it could and should.
Nonetheless, this novel has a little bit of everything. It portrays many college student related issues, deals with self-discovery, friendships and romance. A perfect read for someone currently attending university.
The duelled point of view was a plus for me, it kept me engaged seeing both Chase and Taylor's perspectives of the situations, it added a lot of substance to the book, pulling you in and making you feel their emotions with them as if you were apart of their story. Overall, I liked the characters and I liked the plot, it just needed a few more compelling elements and improvement.
In conclusion, I recommend this book. It is a heartwarming, easy, fun and enjoyable read that will absolutely entertain you. The author's writing style is beautiful, simple and fluid, which is one of the best parts of this book for me. It has a few tropes, but it's a book worth reading.
March 18, 2018
This is a young adult second chance romance featuring main characters who have grown up in the same house - Chase as the son of the owner and Taylor as the daughter of the couple who are employed to run the house as chef and butler. Despite the disparity in their circumstances, they had been inseparable until they were in their mid-teens.
Tragedy occurred whilst he was at college, with his room mate and best friend dying in a car accident in which Chase was seriously injured, ruining his footballing dreams. If that wasn't bad enough, his peers, former friends and team mates repeatedly accuse him of murdering his friend. Shunned, Chase has retreated into himself, keeping silent and not interacting with others. Taylor could never have attended such a prestigious college but Chase's father has paid her fees and living expenses, in exchange for which he wants her to help Chase by tutoring him and encouraging him to socialise again...... A recipe for disaster or romance?
This is a moving story with well developed characters and just the right amount of angst and drama. There are plenty of twists to keep the reader engaged and the plot pace and flow kept me turning the pages to discover what happened next. The secret manipulations and threats from the past and present need to be revealed for the couple to really move on and I loved the final face-off with his father, showing just how well both main characters have matured, developed and grown in every way. I enjoyed escaping into this story and will look out for more by this author in future.
I requested and received a copy of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Tragedy occurred whilst he was at college, with his room mate and best friend dying in a car accident in which Chase was seriously injured, ruining his footballing dreams. If that wasn't bad enough, his peers, former friends and team mates repeatedly accuse him of murdering his friend. Shunned, Chase has retreated into himself, keeping silent and not interacting with others. Taylor could never have attended such a prestigious college but Chase's father has paid her fees and living expenses, in exchange for which he wants her to help Chase by tutoring him and encouraging him to socialise again...... A recipe for disaster or romance?
This is a moving story with well developed characters and just the right amount of angst and drama. There are plenty of twists to keep the reader engaged and the plot pace and flow kept me turning the pages to discover what happened next. The secret manipulations and threats from the past and present need to be revealed for the couple to really move on and I loved the final face-off with his father, showing just how well both main characters have matured, developed and grown in every way. I enjoyed escaping into this story and will look out for more by this author in future.
I requested and received a copy of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
April 2, 2020
Cute new adult romance
A bit of drama, asshole father, some jealous ex...
But it was quite good. Normally I don't read na books.
A bit of drama, asshole father, some jealous ex...
But it was quite good. Normally I don't read na books.
March 9, 2018
The Backup Plan is a boring new adult romance full of cliches and tropes. One of the things going for it is it’s acknowledgment of using those cliches and tropes.
The Blackup Plan is marketed as a second chance romance between two people who grew up together but were forced apart. However, I’d hardly call this a second chance romance since the reader is given little to no context regarding their friendship in the past. It’s briefly mentioned once or twice when directly related to what’s happening in the moment.
Cliches and tropes are used without pause throughout the entire novel. The most obvious being the asshole male love interest. Chase is introduced as a young man broken by his past actions. He’s closed off from everyone around him and has create an asshole persona as a defense mechanism. As with all alpha male characters like this, Chase does not discriminate with his rudeness until he realizes that he’s fallen in love. This type of character doesn’t function on many levels. It’s an overused and unhealthy trope to perpetuate yet here it is. Also, blatantly pointing out that it’s a trope does not excuse the characters’ words or actions.
“He wasn’t nice. He was an asshole. He never once made it seem like he likes me, and yet I was the stereotypical heroine in the book who couldn’t get enough of the hot guy who treated her like shit. I made myself sick sometimes. And yet, I kept doing it.”
Everything about The Backup Plan is unfinished and rushed. Chase’s transformation from asshole to nice guy happens within the first 20% of the novel and is never referred to again. Also, Chase’s past continues to affect him throughout the novel as he deals with his emotions and learns how to move on. Unfortunately, his past is only briefly mentioned a few times and is never fully explored. Instead, his past is used as a plot device and discarded when not needed.
Overall, The Backup Plan is a cliche filled new adult novel that offers nothing new to the genre.
*** I received an ARC via Netgalley for an honest review.
The Blackup Plan is marketed as a second chance romance between two people who grew up together but were forced apart. However, I’d hardly call this a second chance romance since the reader is given little to no context regarding their friendship in the past. It’s briefly mentioned once or twice when directly related to what’s happening in the moment.
Cliches and tropes are used without pause throughout the entire novel. The most obvious being the asshole male love interest. Chase is introduced as a young man broken by his past actions. He’s closed off from everyone around him and has create an asshole persona as a defense mechanism. As with all alpha male characters like this, Chase does not discriminate with his rudeness until he realizes that he’s fallen in love. This type of character doesn’t function on many levels. It’s an overused and unhealthy trope to perpetuate yet here it is. Also, blatantly pointing out that it’s a trope does not excuse the characters’ words or actions.
“He wasn’t nice. He was an asshole. He never once made it seem like he likes me, and yet I was the stereotypical heroine in the book who couldn’t get enough of the hot guy who treated her like shit. I made myself sick sometimes. And yet, I kept doing it.”
Everything about The Backup Plan is unfinished and rushed. Chase’s transformation from asshole to nice guy happens within the first 20% of the novel and is never referred to again. Also, Chase’s past continues to affect him throughout the novel as he deals with his emotions and learns how to move on. Unfortunately, his past is only briefly mentioned a few times and is never fully explored. Instead, his past is used as a plot device and discarded when not needed.
Overall, The Backup Plan is a cliche filled new adult novel that offers nothing new to the genre.
*** I received an ARC via Netgalley for an honest review.
March 10, 2018
Chase he's, well sexy in a broody kind of way, "he stood in the doorway, looking completely unfazed by the fact that he’d basically just felt me up, and glowered at the guy in the hallway. He was shirtless, and wearing nothing but a pair of black sweats." Chase likes to use actions to get his points across, "we passed Rick, who still openly stared, and Chase smirked. Without warning, without hesitation, he put his arm around my shoulders and pulled me close, kissing my temple." I really liked this book, I loved Chase. Taylor was the sunshine to his darkness.
March 19, 2018
this is a first read for me by this author and wow what a good book.
I really enjoyed this new adult, college story about Taylor and Chase.
I devoured this in a fee days I enjoyed it so much
I volunteered to read a copy of this book
I really enjoyed this new adult, college story about Taylor and Chase.
I devoured this in a fee days I enjoyed it so much
I volunteered to read a copy of this book
April 13, 2018
I guess I was expecting a little more from this story. Same old NA college campus romance trope full of clichés. Didn't hate nor love -- okay read for a rainy day.
April 1, 2018
The Backup Plan is an angsty second chance romance with a collegiate setting. The story centers around young college students - ones who haven’t quite figured everything out about their lives and who overreact and act impulsively, leading to unexpected situations, perhaps even life altering events.
Chase Maxwell was a star football player for his school and with one bad decision, he quickly became an outcast and campus’ public enemy #1, irrevocably changing his life and his attitude for the worse, but for some reason, Taylor Selmer, a girl who has known Chase since they were young, goes out of her way to help him, both with school and with his life as a whole, even if his demeanor in the first half of the story makes him seem undeserving of her assistance.
Taylor is quite the sassy heroine. She’s funny, intelligent, and rational, and every time Chase attempts to push her away or acts spiteful towards her, her witty comebacks and sarcasm prove that she won’t back down or let him walk all over her. I have to admit that, sometimes, I questioned why Taylor cared so much and tried so hard to help Chase when he seemed so undeserving. His treatment of her didn’t sit well with me, and I just didn’t understand why she put up with his shit.
For the first half of the book, Chase is a dick with a huge chip on his shoulder, and while I can understand his survivor’s guilt, his moodiness towards other people wasn’t justified and actually made me not like him. And then Chase gave me a bit of whiplash when his feelings seemed to change overnight, offering little insight into why his change of heart took place and why he was resolved to be a better person.
In my opinion, the plot line felt a bit rushed in parts and not fully flushed out given the tragic incident that upended Chase’s life and put Taylor in Chase’s corner to get him back on track and help him graduate. Even with Chase’s point of view, I really couldn’t understand all of his actions and decisions, which made it difficult for me to be truly invested in him and his issues.
Even with my frustrations with some of the aspects of The Backup Plan, though, I still liked the story. Taylor was awesome and her inability to be pushed around by Chase was admirable; the story line was unique and had potential…everything just needed to be explored deeper, so that all parts could be understood and connected. But I still suggest readers of New Adult Romance give this story a try and make their own assessments on Taylor and Chase’s story.
3.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Chase Maxwell was a star football player for his school and with one bad decision, he quickly became an outcast and campus’ public enemy #1, irrevocably changing his life and his attitude for the worse, but for some reason, Taylor Selmer, a girl who has known Chase since they were young, goes out of her way to help him, both with school and with his life as a whole, even if his demeanor in the first half of the story makes him seem undeserving of her assistance.
Taylor is quite the sassy heroine. She’s funny, intelligent, and rational, and every time Chase attempts to push her away or acts spiteful towards her, her witty comebacks and sarcasm prove that she won’t back down or let him walk all over her. I have to admit that, sometimes, I questioned why Taylor cared so much and tried so hard to help Chase when he seemed so undeserving. His treatment of her didn’t sit well with me, and I just didn’t understand why she put up with his shit.
For the first half of the book, Chase is a dick with a huge chip on his shoulder, and while I can understand his survivor’s guilt, his moodiness towards other people wasn’t justified and actually made me not like him. And then Chase gave me a bit of whiplash when his feelings seemed to change overnight, offering little insight into why his change of heart took place and why he was resolved to be a better person.
In my opinion, the plot line felt a bit rushed in parts and not fully flushed out given the tragic incident that upended Chase’s life and put Taylor in Chase’s corner to get him back on track and help him graduate. Even with Chase’s point of view, I really couldn’t understand all of his actions and decisions, which made it difficult for me to be truly invested in him and his issues.
Even with my frustrations with some of the aspects of The Backup Plan, though, I still liked the story. Taylor was awesome and her inability to be pushed around by Chase was admirable; the story line was unique and had potential…everything just needed to be explored deeper, so that all parts could be understood and connected. But I still suggest readers of New Adult Romance give this story a try and make their own assessments on Taylor and Chase’s story.
3.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
March 5, 2018
This is my first read by Jen McLaughlin and I am looking forward to one-clicking some other books from her.
Well-written, college romance that will have you hooked from the beginning.
Chase and Taylor grew up together but, were in 2 different leagues.
Chase Maxwell, the all-american football player who comes from money. He had everything until one day a tragic event happens that throws him into a downward spiral.
Taylor Selmer, the daughter of the cook and butler for a rich family. Given the opportunity to go to an amazing school all paid for on one condition that can ultimately break her heart. A deal with a business man that can rip her world apart.
Contracts can be the key to a broken heart but also, a forever love. Dive in and follow these two friends as the fight for what they want.
Well-written, college romance that will have you hooked from the beginning.
Chase and Taylor grew up together but, were in 2 different leagues.
Chase Maxwell, the all-american football player who comes from money. He had everything until one day a tragic event happens that throws him into a downward spiral.
Taylor Selmer, the daughter of the cook and butler for a rich family. Given the opportunity to go to an amazing school all paid for on one condition that can ultimately break her heart. A deal with a business man that can rip her world apart.
Contracts can be the key to a broken heart but also, a forever love. Dive in and follow these two friends as the fight for what they want.
March 20, 2018
Meh, I didn't love it. I did finish but it was lacking...
March 29, 2018
Oh my, I loved this story, this is a first time author for me and the writing was good, it flowed easily and the characters were great
March 19, 2018
3.5 stars.
Although it was an entertaining read, I didn’t end up loving it as much as I wanted.
Here we have Taylor and Chase, they’ve known each other for most of their lives, with Taylor’s parents working for Chase’s family. After some traumatic accident, Chase did a 180 and started acting completely out of character, so his Dad ‘hired’ Taylor to try and help him.
I loved Taylor and just how honest she was, almost brutally at times, lol, which was exactly what Chase needed. I loved her stubbornness, and how true she was to herself, even when she had moments of doubt. That was actually one of the things I disliked, how she would put herself down, because she didn’t come from money. However, I understood it to some degree, ‘cause there were people in her past that made her feel that way.
As for Chase, he could be a total jerk sometimes, and even though he was blaming/punishing himself for something that happened the year before, that didn’t give him the right to be that mean. That’s why I loved Taylor entering his life.
Now, I liked the story, but there was something that prevented me from truly loving it and I’m not sure what it was. There was some drama, but it was easily resolved, and maybe that was it. I needed more meat in the drama? IDK.
Still, it was an entertaining read and I’ll check more in the series in the future.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing a copy in exchange of my honest opinion*
Although it was an entertaining read, I didn’t end up loving it as much as I wanted.
Here we have Taylor and Chase, they’ve known each other for most of their lives, with Taylor’s parents working for Chase’s family. After some traumatic accident, Chase did a 180 and started acting completely out of character, so his Dad ‘hired’ Taylor to try and help him.
I loved Taylor and just how honest she was, almost brutally at times, lol, which was exactly what Chase needed. I loved her stubbornness, and how true she was to herself, even when she had moments of doubt. That was actually one of the things I disliked, how she would put herself down, because she didn’t come from money. However, I understood it to some degree, ‘cause there were people in her past that made her feel that way.
As for Chase, he could be a total jerk sometimes, and even though he was blaming/punishing himself for something that happened the year before, that didn’t give him the right to be that mean. That’s why I loved Taylor entering his life.
Now, I liked the story, but there was something that prevented me from truly loving it and I’m not sure what it was. There was some drama, but it was easily resolved, and maybe that was it. I needed more meat in the drama? IDK.
Still, it was an entertaining read and I’ll check more in the series in the future.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing a copy in exchange of my honest opinion*
March 26, 2018
Chase's life was devoted to football from the beginning, and he excelled at it. But things can change in an instant and suddenly everyone viewed him differently, the star was suddenly a monster, blamed for his best friend's death. The outgoing man is now an outcast. Then she comes back into his life.
Taylor misses her childhood friend, the accident having changed him completely. The Chase she knew is gone, but she refuses to accept it's forever. She will bring him back, his smiles, his life, everything that made Chase who he was.
As Chase and Taylor begin spending time together again, she slowly helps Chase find his way out of his self-imposed exile, but it's a long journey as Chase has lost all hope. To him, what happened was unforgivable and nothing can ever make it better. He didn't count on Taylor though and her determination to save him. Nor on the way their feelings have begun changing.
However, the obstacles to Chase's own redemption and his future with Taylor are varied and they must decide if the fight is worth it.
Can Taylor help Chase heal? Will Chase accept how Taylor makes him feel? Can Chase and Taylor's relationship survive? Is a HEA in their future?
One-click now and follow along as two friends are reunited and discover just how much things can change, including how they see each other?
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Taylor misses her childhood friend, the accident having changed him completely. The Chase she knew is gone, but she refuses to accept it's forever. She will bring him back, his smiles, his life, everything that made Chase who he was.
As Chase and Taylor begin spending time together again, she slowly helps Chase find his way out of his self-imposed exile, but it's a long journey as Chase has lost all hope. To him, what happened was unforgivable and nothing can ever make it better. He didn't count on Taylor though and her determination to save him. Nor on the way their feelings have begun changing.
However, the obstacles to Chase's own redemption and his future with Taylor are varied and they must decide if the fight is worth it.
Can Taylor help Chase heal? Will Chase accept how Taylor makes him feel? Can Chase and Taylor's relationship survive? Is a HEA in their future?
One-click now and follow along as two friends are reunited and discover just how much things can change, including how they see each other?
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
August 10, 2018
Wow!!
I LOVED this NA story sol characters!! I think Taylor may be amongst some of my favorite heroines with her "take no crap" attitude. I also enjoyed her verbal sparring with Chase. The were so cute together. Awesome story, awesome characters, awesome plot!! Well done!
I LOVED this NA story sol characters!! I think Taylor may be amongst some of my favorite heroines with her "take no crap" attitude. I also enjoyed her verbal sparring with Chase. The were so cute together. Awesome story, awesome characters, awesome plot!! Well done!
March 24, 2018
3.5 Cocktails
Ending felt rushed, but it was a decent story overall.
Ending felt rushed, but it was a decent story overall.
October 16, 2020
3 -Algo simple pero hizo el truco -estrellas
*SPOILER ALERT*
Chase es probablemente la persona más odiada en toda la universidad. Pero ¿qué más puede esperar luego de haber matado a su mejor amigo? O al menos esa es la verdad que todos creen, tanto así que a pesar de que él no era el que estaba bebeiendo y en realidad quería detener a su amigo de hacer algo estúpido, empieza a creer que lo qeu todos dicen es cierto, es un asesino.
Quizá por eso ya nada le importa. Ya sea el futból americano, los amigos que lo odian, la presión de su padre o sus notas.
Entonces un día Taylor, su amiga de la infancia se presenta en la puerta de su dormitorio, dispuesta a regresarlo a la vida que una vez tuvo.
Taylor es muchas cosas, pero tonta no es una de ellas, y cuando el empleador de sus padres, y el padre de Chase, le ofrece pagar por su educación a cambio de ayudar a su hijo con la escuela, acepta sin dudarlo.
No obstante, Taylor tampoco es una mentirosa y desde un inico habla con Chase acerca del trato que hizo con su padre.
Obviamente Chase no está complacido con el plan, y trata de empujar a Taylor en cada momento que puede, pero los sentimientos que tuvo por ella cuando eran niños, nunca se fueron realmente y no puede evitar querer que Taylor esté ahí para él y no porque su padre se lo pidió.
Taylor no es inmune al encanto y formas de Chase, porque a pesar de ahora ser un chico gruñón y lleno de dolor que no puede entender del todo, es cierto que en el fondo sigue siendo el chico que jugaba con ella, y a veces, cuando no está siendo un idiota, Taylor es capaz de ver pequeños rastros de él.
Aún así Taylor sabe que Chase no es suyo para perder, su trabajo es claro, mantener a Chase en el camino correcto, después de todo su educación está en riesgo.
Pero a veces las cosas no son tan sencillas.
El amor florece en ambos, de una manera súbita y llena de sanación.
Sin embargo, Taylor siente que está tomando algo que no le corresponde, sabe que en algún momento tendrá dejar ir a Chase, excepto que él parece no querer ir a ningún lado a menos que sea junto a ella.
Cuando los secretos y las mentiras salen a la luz, el dolor de perderse los hará darse cuenta de lo que realmente necesitan.
En esta cuarentena me ha sido más que difícil encontrar un libro que me cautive y me deje con ganas de más. Al parecer todo lo que soy capaz de aguantar son historias de insta love. Pero a veces uno necesita algo más de sustancia y ciertamente un poco más de drama.
Sin embargo, cada vez que leía la sinopsis de un nuevo libro, mi apatía regresaba con fuerza. Así que pensé que podía empezar con algo un poco más ligero pero sin duda con más desarrollo que una novela de cien páginas.
De esa manera llegué con The Backup Plan.
La verdad es que no esperaba mucho de mi lectura, quiero decir, sabía que me iba a traer un poco más de emoción que las historias en las que me he estado sumergiendo últimamente, no obstante no veía que pasara más allá de eso.
Y tuve razón, quiero decir, disfruté bastante de mi lectura, y me alegra por fin haber encontrado algo que no me aburriera a las pocas páginas, pero fuera de una linda historia, no haty mucho más.
Para empezar los personajes fueron lo que me esperaba. Taylor es la amiga tenaz que todos deseariamos tener cuando esos momentos oscuros de la vida ocurren. Mientras que Chase es uno de esos protagonistas atormentados que claramente necesitan ayuda.
Me gustó bastante el inicio y la manera en la que a pesar de que Chase quiere empujar fuera de su vida a Taylor, una parte de él es capaz de reconocer que la necesita.
Disfruté basttante del tira y afloja entre los dos. Lo que aprecié sobre cualquier otra cosa es que Taylor no se dejara pisotear. Que se mantuviera fuerte aún cuando sentía que no podía.
El conflicto es mínimo y me gusta cómo los dos tan tercos, le agrega un momento de suspenso en el que uno piensa que tendrá que esperar hasta el siguiente libro para que haya un cierre.
A pesar de que creoq ue el papá de Chase merecía otra clase de castigo, también fue agradable que el hombre al final no fuera una gran amenaza y quisiera estar ahí para su hijo aunque no lo hizo del mejor modo.
Espero que con esto pueda empezar una nueva racha en donde disfrute y encuentre mejores lecturas.
*SPOILER ALERT*
Chase es probablemente la persona más odiada en toda la universidad. Pero ¿qué más puede esperar luego de haber matado a su mejor amigo? O al menos esa es la verdad que todos creen, tanto así que a pesar de que él no era el que estaba bebeiendo y en realidad quería detener a su amigo de hacer algo estúpido, empieza a creer que lo qeu todos dicen es cierto, es un asesino.
Quizá por eso ya nada le importa. Ya sea el futból americano, los amigos que lo odian, la presión de su padre o sus notas.
Entonces un día Taylor, su amiga de la infancia se presenta en la puerta de su dormitorio, dispuesta a regresarlo a la vida que una vez tuvo.
Taylor es muchas cosas, pero tonta no es una de ellas, y cuando el empleador de sus padres, y el padre de Chase, le ofrece pagar por su educación a cambio de ayudar a su hijo con la escuela, acepta sin dudarlo.
No obstante, Taylor tampoco es una mentirosa y desde un inico habla con Chase acerca del trato que hizo con su padre.
Obviamente Chase no está complacido con el plan, y trata de empujar a Taylor en cada momento que puede, pero los sentimientos que tuvo por ella cuando eran niños, nunca se fueron realmente y no puede evitar querer que Taylor esté ahí para él y no porque su padre se lo pidió.
Taylor no es inmune al encanto y formas de Chase, porque a pesar de ahora ser un chico gruñón y lleno de dolor que no puede entender del todo, es cierto que en el fondo sigue siendo el chico que jugaba con ella, y a veces, cuando no está siendo un idiota, Taylor es capaz de ver pequeños rastros de él.
Aún así Taylor sabe que Chase no es suyo para perder, su trabajo es claro, mantener a Chase en el camino correcto, después de todo su educación está en riesgo.
Pero a veces las cosas no son tan sencillas.
El amor florece en ambos, de una manera súbita y llena de sanación.
Sin embargo, Taylor siente que está tomando algo que no le corresponde, sabe que en algún momento tendrá dejar ir a Chase, excepto que él parece no querer ir a ningún lado a menos que sea junto a ella.
Cuando los secretos y las mentiras salen a la luz, el dolor de perderse los hará darse cuenta de lo que realmente necesitan.
En esta cuarentena me ha sido más que difícil encontrar un libro que me cautive y me deje con ganas de más. Al parecer todo lo que soy capaz de aguantar son historias de insta love. Pero a veces uno necesita algo más de sustancia y ciertamente un poco más de drama.
Sin embargo, cada vez que leía la sinopsis de un nuevo libro, mi apatía regresaba con fuerza. Así que pensé que podía empezar con algo un poco más ligero pero sin duda con más desarrollo que una novela de cien páginas.
De esa manera llegué con The Backup Plan.
La verdad es que no esperaba mucho de mi lectura, quiero decir, sabía que me iba a traer un poco más de emoción que las historias en las que me he estado sumergiendo últimamente, no obstante no veía que pasara más allá de eso.
Y tuve razón, quiero decir, disfruté bastante de mi lectura, y me alegra por fin haber encontrado algo que no me aburriera a las pocas páginas, pero fuera de una linda historia, no haty mucho más.
Para empezar los personajes fueron lo que me esperaba. Taylor es la amiga tenaz que todos deseariamos tener cuando esos momentos oscuros de la vida ocurren. Mientras que Chase es uno de esos protagonistas atormentados que claramente necesitan ayuda.
Me gustó bastante el inicio y la manera en la que a pesar de que Chase quiere empujar fuera de su vida a Taylor, una parte de él es capaz de reconocer que la necesita.
Disfruté basttante del tira y afloja entre los dos. Lo que aprecié sobre cualquier otra cosa es que Taylor no se dejara pisotear. Que se mantuviera fuerte aún cuando sentía que no podía.
El conflicto es mínimo y me gusta cómo los dos tan tercos, le agrega un momento de suspenso en el que uno piensa que tendrá que esperar hasta el siguiente libro para que haya un cierre.
A pesar de que creoq ue el papá de Chase merecía otra clase de castigo, también fue agradable que el hombre al final no fuera una gran amenaza y quisiera estar ahí para su hijo aunque no lo hizo del mejor modo.
Espero que con esto pueda empezar una nueva racha en donde disfrute y encuentre mejores lecturas.
March 14, 2018
***Thank you to NetGalley for the free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
4.5 stars
The Backup Plan, by Jen McLaughlin, was a really pleasant surprise! The story started out a tiny bit slow, but by the end everything came together beautifully. Chase is a former football player, sidelined by an injury during a car accident that also killed his best friend. He blames himself for his friend’s death and has all but given up on life. Enter Taylor, the girl he grew up with. She doesn’t try to hide the fact that she’s been given a free ride at Villanova in exchange for ensuring he excels at school too. Taylor has no idea that Chase has always had feelings for her, and if Chase has anything to say about it, she never will. His dad has set him on a collision course with the only person who has a shot at getting him to come back to life, but it could break his heart in the process.
The story was told in alternating points of view, which I thought worked really well. Taylor came on pretty strong at first, and it was a bit much. At least until we met Chase, that is. Taylor needed to be a bit headstrong because, when the story opened, Chase was a class-A jerk. I admired Taylor for being honest with Chase about being hired by his father. It showed she had good intentions.
I thought the pacing of this book was well done, as was the back and forth early in the book. McLaughlin made sure the reader understood Chase’s struggle and reasons for trying to keep Taylor at arm’s length, and the same goes for Taylor’s reasons to resist Chase. I also thought the use of Chase’s father in the plot was smart. It created genuine fear for Taylor rather than stirring up drama for the sake of drama. It also made it clear how manipulative his father was willing to be and that he’d use whomever he had to in order to get his way.
One thing that bothered me was Chase’s nickname for Taylor. At the beginning of the story he called her “Mousey.” I was glad the nickname didn’t stick. I didn’t find it cute; I found it insulting. I also didn’t quite understand why everyone on campus referred to Chase as “freak.” He told the tale of a golden life—one half of the most popular couple, money, fame (he’s a former quarterback), friends, parties. Even if the majority of the student body thought he was guilty of killing Joey, the term freak didn’t really fit the situation in my opinion. Also, early in the book, Taylor was critical of Chase for following his father’s order to stay at Villanova after the accident in order to get his trust fund. I just found it hypocritical considering she was helping him for monetary gain as well. After their breakup, she was hurt by Chase’s accusations about her intentions, claiming he should have known her better. If she felt he should have been fighting for her, then she should have told him the truth about his father.
That said, the breakup scene was really well done. The reader could see both Taylor and Chase pulling back and shutting down, saying things they didn’t mean or allowing the other say something untrue without contradiction so they could protect themselves. In fact, the breakup and makeup were my favourite parts of the story, along with the end. Chase was asking himself questions that were really easy to relate to, ones that I think most people would ask after a breakup who were looking for healing and closure. Taylor did an amazing job lining up the reasons for her behaviour the day they broke up, and they actually made sense. It was like piecing together both sides of the breakup, and for once it didn’t feel like it was due to overreaction to create drama but characters genuinely hurt because some of their biggest fears had been triggered. And I dare you not to love the ‘get even’ scheme at the end! It really showcased Chase’s growth.
Overall this was a story I really enjoyed and I would recommend it to anyone who likes the New Adult genre, especially second chance romances.
4.5 stars
The Backup Plan, by Jen McLaughlin, was a really pleasant surprise! The story started out a tiny bit slow, but by the end everything came together beautifully. Chase is a former football player, sidelined by an injury during a car accident that also killed his best friend. He blames himself for his friend’s death and has all but given up on life. Enter Taylor, the girl he grew up with. She doesn’t try to hide the fact that she’s been given a free ride at Villanova in exchange for ensuring he excels at school too. Taylor has no idea that Chase has always had feelings for her, and if Chase has anything to say about it, she never will. His dad has set him on a collision course with the only person who has a shot at getting him to come back to life, but it could break his heart in the process.
The story was told in alternating points of view, which I thought worked really well. Taylor came on pretty strong at first, and it was a bit much. At least until we met Chase, that is. Taylor needed to be a bit headstrong because, when the story opened, Chase was a class-A jerk. I admired Taylor for being honest with Chase about being hired by his father. It showed she had good intentions.
I thought the pacing of this book was well done, as was the back and forth early in the book. McLaughlin made sure the reader understood Chase’s struggle and reasons for trying to keep Taylor at arm’s length, and the same goes for Taylor’s reasons to resist Chase. I also thought the use of Chase’s father in the plot was smart. It created genuine fear for Taylor rather than stirring up drama for the sake of drama. It also made it clear how manipulative his father was willing to be and that he’d use whomever he had to in order to get his way.
One thing that bothered me was Chase’s nickname for Taylor. At the beginning of the story he called her “Mousey.” I was glad the nickname didn’t stick. I didn’t find it cute; I found it insulting. I also didn’t quite understand why everyone on campus referred to Chase as “freak.” He told the tale of a golden life—one half of the most popular couple, money, fame (he’s a former quarterback), friends, parties. Even if the majority of the student body thought he was guilty of killing Joey, the term freak didn’t really fit the situation in my opinion. Also, early in the book, Taylor was critical of Chase for following his father’s order to stay at Villanova after the accident in order to get his trust fund. I just found it hypocritical considering she was helping him for monetary gain as well. After their breakup, she was hurt by Chase’s accusations about her intentions, claiming he should have known her better. If she felt he should have been fighting for her, then she should have told him the truth about his father.
That said, the breakup scene was really well done. The reader could see both Taylor and Chase pulling back and shutting down, saying things they didn’t mean or allowing the other say something untrue without contradiction so they could protect themselves. In fact, the breakup and makeup were my favourite parts of the story, along with the end. Chase was asking himself questions that were really easy to relate to, ones that I think most people would ask after a breakup who were looking for healing and closure. Taylor did an amazing job lining up the reasons for her behaviour the day they broke up, and they actually made sense. It was like piecing together both sides of the breakup, and for once it didn’t feel like it was due to overreaction to create drama but characters genuinely hurt because some of their biggest fears had been triggered. And I dare you not to love the ‘get even’ scheme at the end! It really showcased Chase’s growth.
Overall this was a story I really enjoyed and I would recommend it to anyone who likes the New Adult genre, especially second chance romances.
March 20, 2018
Chase and Taylor were once really good friends, but with her parents being employees of his rich family, there was no way they could be anything more. However, with Chase going through a rough time after the death of a friend and being on the wrong end of accusations, Taylor may be the only person that can help him. Will Taylor be able to help Chase get his life back on track, so they can achieve forever after; or will family pressure and his past demons keep them apart?
What a splendid and captivating read this author has delivered in this first book of her Back in the Game series where opposites attract; the main characters back stories were enthralling and had me reading quickly, determined to discover why they lost touch and whether the heroine would be able to help the hero begin to enjoy life again after everything he's been through; and the dialogue was compelling, as Taylor isn't about to let Chase get away with anything, especially not turning her away. She has a job to do and there's no way she's going to fail, especially when she has so much to lose if she does.
Both the main characters were relatable, likeable and I loved how their relationship blossoms from Chase being a tad rude to almost finding his way back to his old self because of Taylor. Moreover, the heroine is resilient, courageous and I like how determined she was to help the hero because it's palpable he needs a friend. I also liked how feisty Taylor was and that she didn't let Chase's attitude at times get to her, even though there are times when both need to walk away before they say something they regret. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine was her love for her family and that she wouldn't let anything interfere with them losing what they have in life. While the hero, he's been through so much and I liked his road to recovery, as it showed him who his true friends are. How could anyone think so badly of him when it came to the death of his friend? I also liked how protective the hero was of the heroine, especially when it comes to an arrogant jerk that gets a little nasty.
Overall, this author has penned a really good read in this New Adult Romance where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance nicely-detailed; and the ending had me loving the lengths the hero was willing for his relationship with the heroine. No way was anyone going to keep them apart. I would recommend The Back-Up Plan by Jen McLaughlin, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope, the friends to lovers trope, or books by authors Robin Bielman, Megan Westfield, Beth Anne Miller and Cindi Madsen.
March 16, 2018
The Backup Plan by Jen McLaughlin is the first book in her Back in the Game New Adult series. I loved McLaughlin’s Sons of Steel Row series, and decided to check out her new series. I did enjoy this book, but it was a different type of read for me by McLaughlin.
In The Backup Plan, we meet our heroine, Taylor Selmar, who enrolls in the same college as her childhood friend Chase. Taylor’s parents have worked in the Maxwell house as servants, and Taylor grew up there. But she hasn’t seen Chase in a long time, and when she is offered a deal by his father to enroll at the college, get her degree, and to help Chase with his studies and help him get out of his funk; she accepts.
Chase Maxwell is suffering from a shoulder injury from a car accident where his best friend was killed. Though Chase was not at fault, he blames himself for his friend’s death, and is in a rut, where he rarely talks to anyone for the past 6 months. His school friends treat Chase like an outcast, as they feel he was at fault and give him a hard time. When Taylor finds Chase, he is surprised to see her, and in the beginning, as she does everything she can to motivate him, he is belligerent to her, as he is to others in the school.
What follows is a slow built sweet romance that is intense at times. I did like Taylor and Chase together and watching Taylor slowly bring Chase back was heartwarming to see. Taylor was a great heroine, with the perfect amount of sass to handle Chase, and their banter between them was fun. At the same time, she was very vulnerable to her situation with Chase’s father. As they both began to realize that they were falling in love, the pressure mounts for Taylor, as she loves Chase, but the threats to her family will cause her to step back, causing their relationship to suffer. Will Taylor tell Chase the truth? Will she give up Chase to save her family?
Besides Chase’s father, there is an ex-girlfriend who is also determined to win Chase back, creating more havoc for Taylor and Chase. I thought early on Chase was nasty, but he turned around and ended up to be great. The Backup Plan was well written by McLaughlin, and the two main characters were very likable. If you enjoy the new adult genre, with some angst, and a nice romance, I suggest you read this book.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
In The Backup Plan, we meet our heroine, Taylor Selmar, who enrolls in the same college as her childhood friend Chase. Taylor’s parents have worked in the Maxwell house as servants, and Taylor grew up there. But she hasn’t seen Chase in a long time, and when she is offered a deal by his father to enroll at the college, get her degree, and to help Chase with his studies and help him get out of his funk; she accepts.
Chase Maxwell is suffering from a shoulder injury from a car accident where his best friend was killed. Though Chase was not at fault, he blames himself for his friend’s death, and is in a rut, where he rarely talks to anyone for the past 6 months. His school friends treat Chase like an outcast, as they feel he was at fault and give him a hard time. When Taylor finds Chase, he is surprised to see her, and in the beginning, as she does everything she can to motivate him, he is belligerent to her, as he is to others in the school.
What follows is a slow built sweet romance that is intense at times. I did like Taylor and Chase together and watching Taylor slowly bring Chase back was heartwarming to see. Taylor was a great heroine, with the perfect amount of sass to handle Chase, and their banter between them was fun. At the same time, she was very vulnerable to her situation with Chase’s father. As they both began to realize that they were falling in love, the pressure mounts for Taylor, as she loves Chase, but the threats to her family will cause her to step back, causing their relationship to suffer. Will Taylor tell Chase the truth? Will she give up Chase to save her family?
Besides Chase’s father, there is an ex-girlfriend who is also determined to win Chase back, creating more havoc for Taylor and Chase. I thought early on Chase was nasty, but he turned around and ended up to be great. The Backup Plan was well written by McLaughlin, and the two main characters were very likable. If you enjoy the new adult genre, with some angst, and a nice romance, I suggest you read this book.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
February 28, 2018
I received a copy via NetGalley and voluntarily left a review and all opinions are my own.
From the moment I read the blurb, I just knew that I had to have this book. I am absolutely in love with best friend and college romance. To get both all wrapped in one sexy little story is a treat. But then add in the intrigue of Chase being a so called killer of his teammate and I was sold! I couldn't wait to open up The Backup Plan and find out everything possible about Chase and Taylor and watch their two worlds collide!
Taylor Selmer is a servant's kid that has spent her childhood following the handsome, rich best friend Chase around. Now she has followed him to college and is bound and determined to save him from his own demons. She may have been his “Mousey” girl before but now she has changed and wants to show Chase a new more confident side of her. I loved the sweet bookwormish Taylor from the moment she was introduced. I couldn't wait to see her break down Chase's walls and teach this yummy jock that football and his nightmarish past do not define him. What could be better than a heroine that saves the hero? Nothing, if you ask me. I love female characters that are fearless and will stand up for love no matter.
Chase Maxwell went from being a star quarterback to the college “pariah” overnight. He carries his guilt from that night like a thick cloak that he can't escape. Just when he thinks that there is no way out of his dark tunnel of despair, Taylor arrives and proves him wrong! I loved getting a peak under the veneer of his rugged, sarcastic demeanor at the vulnerable guy underneath that just wants his Dad's approval and Taylor's heart.
Jen McLaughlin delivers a college romance full of intrigue, emotion, and passion for making your own way in the world. I highly recommend The Backup Plan for a story that spans social status and income to show us that love conquers all. Having never read a book by Jen McLaughlin, I had no idea what kind of fictional world I was stepping into. Now that I have experienced her characters and her mysterious story line, I can't wait to pick up another of her books and enter more of her penned worlds.
From the moment I read the blurb, I just knew that I had to have this book. I am absolutely in love with best friend and college romance. To get both all wrapped in one sexy little story is a treat. But then add in the intrigue of Chase being a so called killer of his teammate and I was sold! I couldn't wait to open up The Backup Plan and find out everything possible about Chase and Taylor and watch their two worlds collide!
Taylor Selmer is a servant's kid that has spent her childhood following the handsome, rich best friend Chase around. Now she has followed him to college and is bound and determined to save him from his own demons. She may have been his “Mousey” girl before but now she has changed and wants to show Chase a new more confident side of her. I loved the sweet bookwormish Taylor from the moment she was introduced. I couldn't wait to see her break down Chase's walls and teach this yummy jock that football and his nightmarish past do not define him. What could be better than a heroine that saves the hero? Nothing, if you ask me. I love female characters that are fearless and will stand up for love no matter.
Chase Maxwell went from being a star quarterback to the college “pariah” overnight. He carries his guilt from that night like a thick cloak that he can't escape. Just when he thinks that there is no way out of his dark tunnel of despair, Taylor arrives and proves him wrong! I loved getting a peak under the veneer of his rugged, sarcastic demeanor at the vulnerable guy underneath that just wants his Dad's approval and Taylor's heart.
Jen McLaughlin delivers a college romance full of intrigue, emotion, and passion for making your own way in the world. I highly recommend The Backup Plan for a story that spans social status and income to show us that love conquers all. Having never read a book by Jen McLaughlin, I had no idea what kind of fictional world I was stepping into. Now that I have experienced her characters and her mysterious story line, I can't wait to pick up another of her books and enter more of her penned worlds.
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