What do you think?
Rate this book
Love Unexpected
Blake
When the fierce redhead with the beautiful ass walks into the local bar, I can tell she’s passing through. And I’m looking for distraction while I’m in town—a hot hook-up and nothing more before I head back to the city.
If she has secrets, I don't want to know them.
If she feels good underneath me, I don't want to think about it too hard.
If she's my future, I don't want to see it.
I’m Blake McKenna and I’m about to teach this Boston socialite how to forget every man who came before me.
Mackenzie
When the future I had always imagined crumbles before my very eyes. I grab my two best friends and take a much needed vacation to the country.
My plan of swearing off men gets railroaded when on my first night of my vacation, I meet the hottest guy on the planet. I decide he could be the distraction I might just need.
I’m certainly not going to reveal my deepest secrets to him as we steal away each night hoping no one will notice.
And the last thing I’m going to do is fall in love for the first time in my life.
My name is Mackenzie Locke and I haven’t got a handle on men. Not even a little bit. Not until Blake.
Note: Previously titled Love Rehab. A sexy standalone contemporary romance.
When the fierce redhead with the beautiful ass walks into the local bar, I can tell she’s passing through. And I’m looking for distraction while I’m in town—a hot hook-up and nothing more before I head back to the city.
If she has secrets, I don't want to know them.
If she feels good underneath me, I don't want to think about it too hard.
If she's my future, I don't want to see it.
I’m Blake McKenna and I’m about to teach this Boston socialite how to forget every man who came before me.
Mackenzie
When the future I had always imagined crumbles before my very eyes. I grab my two best friends and take a much needed vacation to the country.
My plan of swearing off men gets railroaded when on my first night of my vacation, I meet the hottest guy on the planet. I decide he could be the distraction I might just need.
I’m certainly not going to reveal my deepest secrets to him as we steal away each night hoping no one will notice.
And the last thing I’m going to do is fall in love for the first time in my life.
My name is Mackenzie Locke and I haven’t got a handle on men. Not even a little bit. Not until Blake.
Note: Previously titled Love Rehab. A sexy standalone contemporary romance.
320 pages, ebook
First published December 15, 2016
About the author
Louise Bay
61 books7,236 followersInternational, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, Louise Bay writes contemporary romance novels that make you laugh - the kind she likes to read.
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews
December 6, 2016
5 IT FEELS LIKE US STARS!!!
Love Rehab is the first book I've read from Louise Bay and I cannot wait to read more! Why in the hell did I wait so long?! What is wrong with me?! I am love drunk on her writing!!!
This book had me cheering for Mackenzie, the loveaholic. She just wants to find her one true love and have her happily ever after. I NEEDED her to get her happily ever after...with Blake. Oh God. What a fine, fine man! He's such a kind, sexy and caring soul. SWOON! I loved hearing his thoughts about Mackenzie. Damn! He had my heart melting constantly! The sexy times between Mackenzie and Blake had me fanning myself! A LOT. That first time! WHOA!!!! It was HELLA HOT. Seriously though, the chemistry between these two set my fun box on fire! Not gonna lie.
The emotions I felt while reading Blake and Mackenzie's story had my heart doing all sorts of things! It soared, it crashed and it squeeeezed! A lot!!! But what I enjoyed most about this book is how REAL it is! I mean, who hasn't experienced heart break and heart ache? It's definitely a story about finding your true self and I loved it!
Love Rehab is a fun, sexy, romantic and emotional journey that will have you laughing, smiling and fanning yourself and maybe even shedding some tears! Go on now and one click this beautiful love story!
Love Rehab is the first book I've read from Louise Bay and I cannot wait to read more! Why in the hell did I wait so long?! What is wrong with me?! I am love drunk on her writing!!!
This book had me cheering for Mackenzie, the loveaholic. She just wants to find her one true love and have her happily ever after. I NEEDED her to get her happily ever after...with Blake. Oh God. What a fine, fine man! He's such a kind, sexy and caring soul. SWOON! I loved hearing his thoughts about Mackenzie. Damn! He had my heart melting constantly! The sexy times between Mackenzie and Blake had me fanning myself! A LOT. That first time! WHOA!!!! It was HELLA HOT. Seriously though, the chemistry between these two set my fun box on fire! Not gonna lie.
The emotions I felt while reading Blake and Mackenzie's story had my heart doing all sorts of things! It soared, it crashed and it squeeeezed! A lot!!! But what I enjoyed most about this book is how REAL it is! I mean, who hasn't experienced heart break and heart ache? It's definitely a story about finding your true self and I loved it!
Love Rehab is a fun, sexy, romantic and emotional journey that will have you laughing, smiling and fanning yourself and maybe even shedding some tears! Go on now and one click this beautiful love story!
November 28, 2016
Louise Bay has done it again, what great story. If you want a nice read, with romance, laughter, best friends, a gorgeous guy and hot sex, then this one won't disappoint.
I loved Mackenzie and Blake from the beginning, they are both really nice people, both confused about where their lives are going and both in need of Love Rehab. Mackenzie's best friends Rose and Kennedy were both really likeable and funny. Great book - great characters.
Mackenzie wants to be in love, she wants it so much she works very hard at being what the men in her life want. But this doesn't seem to be working, she books a trip to Love Rehab with her friends to sort out what she needs to do to get the love of her life. Blake has a decision to make, so he visits his family ranch to help his sister out and get his sister's perspective on the decision. What happens is not what they were expecting.
I loved Louise's writing, it is bright and witty. I loved the line... "It was as if Rothko had been in charge of designing this state." So evocative. I highly recommend reading Love Rehab, with a glass of wine, a box of chocolates and a roaring fire. Perfect!
I loved Mackenzie and Blake from the beginning, they are both really nice people, both confused about where their lives are going and both in need of Love Rehab. Mackenzie's best friends Rose and Kennedy were both really likeable and funny. Great book - great characters.
Mackenzie wants to be in love, she wants it so much she works very hard at being what the men in her life want. But this doesn't seem to be working, she books a trip to Love Rehab with her friends to sort out what she needs to do to get the love of her life. Blake has a decision to make, so he visits his family ranch to help his sister out and get his sister's perspective on the decision. What happens is not what they were expecting.
I loved Louise's writing, it is bright and witty. I loved the line... "It was as if Rothko had been in charge of designing this state." So evocative. I highly recommend reading Love Rehab, with a glass of wine, a box of chocolates and a roaring fire. Perfect!
December 7, 2016
4 'Stone Pile' Stars!
ARC provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review.
When Louise announced this release I have to say I was all over it! Since I loved King of Wall Street, I was super excited to read this one. And I was definitely surprised because this was totally different from my last read by hers: Love Rehab still is sexy AF (like KOWS) but the theme of it and the storyline is completely different which is always great!
Love Rehab is Louise's new standalone novel and it tells the story of Mackenzie Locke and Blake McKenna. Mackenzie has been engaged three times already and she is not feeling very lucky right now. She is determined to follow her 'plan' and get her love life back on track, that's why she decides to go to Oklahoma and participate in a different 'therapy' called Love Rehab. What she does not expect is to have a hot lots-of-nights-stand with Blake, a man who has to make a pretty important decision about his future and everything changes when these two fall in love.
I needed a cure.
I needed my plan back on track.
I needed Love Rehab.
I really enjoyed this whole new idea in the plot of Love Rehab. I haven't read anything like this and originality is always a good thing. Louise's writing is good and fluent and the story flows with it. This love story is full of banter, really funny moments and also a deep character growth. Both Mackenzie and Blake mature and take pretty big decisions after being together and experimenting the Love Rehab.
He'd seen it all, right into the center of me. And he was still here. With me.
I couldn't be near her without being desperate to kiss her. And I couldn't kiss this girl without needing to fuck her.
I loved the relationship between the main characters and also I always enjoy having significant moments with secondary characters. I have to say, Mackenzie is not my favorite heroine by Louise though: she really grows by the end of the book but I did not connect as much with her at the start. Blake.. well Blake is great! lol (But Max is still my fave!) I loved the love story and the sexy times! Louise does know how to write some pretty fantastic hot scenes! And the ending was fabulous: I felt connected to both characters because of their deep connection.
"I don't want to be Boston Mackenzie. I want to be Oklahoma Mackenzie. I don't want to go backward."
Blake may not have been part of the plan that I'd had for myself at seven years old, but he was better than anything I could have ever imagined.
Therefore, my rating for Love Rehab is 4 STARS because Louise gave us another great story with a new and original plot and pretty great characthers (that have holy-hotness chemistry!). I can't wait to see what is next because I am totally reading it! If you enjoyed Louise's writing in the past, be sure to check this one out!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
ARC provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review.
When Louise announced this release I have to say I was all over it! Since I loved King of Wall Street, I was super excited to read this one. And I was definitely surprised because this was totally different from my last read by hers: Love Rehab still is sexy AF (like KOWS) but the theme of it and the storyline is completely different which is always great!
Love Rehab is Louise's new standalone novel and it tells the story of Mackenzie Locke and Blake McKenna. Mackenzie has been engaged three times already and she is not feeling very lucky right now. She is determined to follow her 'plan' and get her love life back on track, that's why she decides to go to Oklahoma and participate in a different 'therapy' called Love Rehab. What she does not expect is to have a hot lots-of-nights-stand with Blake, a man who has to make a pretty important decision about his future and everything changes when these two fall in love.
I needed a cure.
I needed my plan back on track.
I needed Love Rehab.
I really enjoyed this whole new idea in the plot of Love Rehab. I haven't read anything like this and originality is always a good thing. Louise's writing is good and fluent and the story flows with it. This love story is full of banter, really funny moments and also a deep character growth. Both Mackenzie and Blake mature and take pretty big decisions after being together and experimenting the Love Rehab.
He'd seen it all, right into the center of me. And he was still here. With me.
I couldn't be near her without being desperate to kiss her. And I couldn't kiss this girl without needing to fuck her.
I loved the relationship between the main characters and also I always enjoy having significant moments with secondary characters. I have to say, Mackenzie is not my favorite heroine by Louise though: she really grows by the end of the book but I did not connect as much with her at the start. Blake.. well Blake is great! lol (But Max is still my fave!) I loved the love story and the sexy times! Louise does know how to write some pretty fantastic hot scenes! And the ending was fabulous: I felt connected to both characters because of their deep connection.
"I don't want to be Boston Mackenzie. I want to be Oklahoma Mackenzie. I don't want to go backward."
Blake may not have been part of the plan that I'd had for myself at seven years old, but he was better than anything I could have ever imagined.
Therefore, my rating for Love Rehab is 4 STARS because Louise gave us another great story with a new and original plot and pretty great characthers (that have holy-hotness chemistry!). I can't wait to see what is next because I am totally reading it! If you enjoyed Louise's writing in the past, be sure to check this one out!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
December 9, 2016
4 - "Find your truth..." Stars!
I really enjoyed Love Rehab, Louise Bay delivered up a fresh take on a romance between a couple that find themselves connecting with each other in the most unusual of circumstances.
Its LIVE!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2h0fdyE
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2gzTHAh
iBooks: http://tinyurl.com/zqwc2gh
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/hz9g4bg
Nook: http://tinyurl.com/zloow8s
I have to say this was a story with characters that kind of grow on you as it progresses, Mackenzie was a little frustrating in the first half of the book, with her internal rationalizations about love and relationships coming across as slightly old-fashioned and her external reactions to some occurrences a little juvenile, but you get to understand more about her actions and reactions as she reveals more of herself and her background to Blake.
What do you do when the guy you are meant to only be having a one night stand with then turns out to be the brother of the woman who is running the retreat that you and your friends have traveled to Oklahoma to take part in, a guy who is also helping out his sister with the retreat, while you and your friends spend five days camping in the wilderness while working through your relationship hang-ups? Well if you are Mackenzie, you deal with the relationship issues during the days, and you spend your nights having hot sex with a non-cowboy while everyone else is asleep!
I would lock these Oklahoma nights away in my memory, and only bring them out occasionally to remind me of the woman I wanted to be…
I think Mackenzie is a character a lot of people will either love or hate, I would say I came to understand her more as the story progressed, and I liked her more as I came to understand more about her. Blake was an absolute sweetheart, a guy with a few decisions of his own to make, still struggling to understand and believe in his own self-worth, they bought out the best in each other.
She seemed to fit here with me – both of us just passing through, lost and looking for something.
I really liked the dynamic Mackenzie’s friends bought to the book as well, Rose and Kennedy were both very different in personalities, and also both dealing with their own relationship demons, I hope that at some point the author looks to give them their own stories as well.
"You look good in the wild."
All-in-all a really enjoyable read, and I look forward to seeing what Ms. Bay has in store for her readers in 2017.
ARC generously provided by the author, via SocialButterfly PR in exchange for the above honest review.
I really enjoyed Love Rehab, Louise Bay delivered up a fresh take on a romance between a couple that find themselves connecting with each other in the most unusual of circumstances.
Its LIVE!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2h0fdyE
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2gzTHAh
iBooks: http://tinyurl.com/zqwc2gh
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/hz9g4bg
Nook: http://tinyurl.com/zloow8s
I have to say this was a story with characters that kind of grow on you as it progresses, Mackenzie was a little frustrating in the first half of the book, with her internal rationalizations about love and relationships coming across as slightly old-fashioned and her external reactions to some occurrences a little juvenile, but you get to understand more about her actions and reactions as she reveals more of herself and her background to Blake.
What do you do when the guy you are meant to only be having a one night stand with then turns out to be the brother of the woman who is running the retreat that you and your friends have traveled to Oklahoma to take part in, a guy who is also helping out his sister with the retreat, while you and your friends spend five days camping in the wilderness while working through your relationship hang-ups? Well if you are Mackenzie, you deal with the relationship issues during the days, and you spend your nights having hot sex with a non-cowboy while everyone else is asleep!
I would lock these Oklahoma nights away in my memory, and only bring them out occasionally to remind me of the woman I wanted to be…
I think Mackenzie is a character a lot of people will either love or hate, I would say I came to understand her more as the story progressed, and I liked her more as I came to understand more about her. Blake was an absolute sweetheart, a guy with a few decisions of his own to make, still struggling to understand and believe in his own self-worth, they bought out the best in each other.
She seemed to fit here with me – both of us just passing through, lost and looking for something.
I really liked the dynamic Mackenzie’s friends bought to the book as well, Rose and Kennedy were both very different in personalities, and also both dealing with their own relationship demons, I hope that at some point the author looks to give them their own stories as well.
"You look good in the wild."
All-in-all a really enjoyable read, and I look forward to seeing what Ms. Bay has in store for her readers in 2017.
ARC generously provided by the author, via SocialButterfly PR in exchange for the above honest review.
December 9, 2016
3 Stars
"Love Rehab is going to fix everything.
It was going to happen.
I just had to have a little faith.
And last five days in Oklahoma."
I really enjoyed King of Wall Street so I was super excited to start this new book by Louise Bay. Mackenzie Locke has had three failed engagements. After the 3rd one she decided to take a Love Rehab retreat in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma with her two best friends, Kennedy and Rose. A lot happens during those five days in Oklahoma. Mackenzie does some soul searching and she meets a hottie Blake McKenna, with whom she has instant chemistry with.
I really liked Mackenzie, and her inner dialogue was funny at times, but there were times I rolled my eyes at her lack of trying. I felt like she let people run over her, but toward the end and with Blake's help, she becomes a better, stronger woman. He helped her see herself more clearly and see glimpses of the girl she wanted to be. Blake and Mackenzie together was seriously hot! I do wish there was more of a build up to their romance, I felt like they met and then wham they're together. But these two were good together.
Blake's was such a sweet, endearing "uncowboy" hero and I loved Mackenzies besties, especially Kennedy, I had a few lol moments because of her. Overall, this was a cute, enjoyable read and if you're a fan of Louise Bay I definitely recommend this one.
"Love Rehab is going to fix everything.
It was going to happen.
I just had to have a little faith.
And last five days in Oklahoma."
I really enjoyed King of Wall Street so I was super excited to start this new book by Louise Bay. Mackenzie Locke has had three failed engagements. After the 3rd one she decided to take a Love Rehab retreat in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma with her two best friends, Kennedy and Rose. A lot happens during those five days in Oklahoma. Mackenzie does some soul searching and she meets a hottie Blake McKenna, with whom she has instant chemistry with.
I really liked Mackenzie, and her inner dialogue was funny at times, but there were times I rolled my eyes at her lack of trying. I felt like she let people run over her, but toward the end and with Blake's help, she becomes a better, stronger woman. He helped her see herself more clearly and see glimpses of the girl she wanted to be. Blake and Mackenzie together was seriously hot! I do wish there was more of a build up to their romance, I felt like they met and then wham they're together. But these two were good together.
Blake's was such a sweet, endearing "uncowboy" hero and I loved Mackenzies besties, especially Kennedy, I had a few lol moments because of her. Overall, this was a cute, enjoyable read and if you're a fan of Louise Bay I definitely recommend this one.
June 21, 2021
Another good story by this excellent author around hot sex turning into love. 7 of 10 stars
December 5, 2016
Release Date:
December 7, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Standalone
I may not have fallen in love with Mackenzie, but I could definitely relate to her. I think many of us have found ourselves in her position. She's been dumped by her third fiance and is wondering what she's doing wrong. She believes that she's the problem somehow. She realizes that she's quite the catch (which she is) and is proud of the fact that she's had three men love her enough to propose. She enrolls herself into Love Rehab in order to find out what more she can do to please a man and get her HEA according to plan. It didn't take me long to figure out that the love Mackenzie speaks of isn't even real because she herself wasn't real. She's a people pleaser and for most of the book she wouldn't even acknowledge it (which drove me absolutely insane), but the H (Blake) helped her to realize her true self.
I loved Blake. I really appreciated his honesty and was grateful for his POV. He had his act together for the most part. His storyline was similar to the h's, but instead of trying to please he created distance in his relationships. He's been offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity but his fear makes him hesitant to take the risk or change the status quo. As he helps guide Mac to her truth, she inadvertently does the same for him in return.
These two together were incredibly endearing and insanely hot. Louise Bay created the perfect balance of feels and steam and this story grabbed my attention from its opening scene. This book was very low on angst or drama and very high on romance with a happy ending!
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Standalone
I may not have fallen in love with Mackenzie, but I could definitely relate to her. I think many of us have found ourselves in her position. She's been dumped by her third fiance and is wondering what she's doing wrong. She believes that she's the problem somehow. She realizes that she's quite the catch (which she is) and is proud of the fact that she's had three men love her enough to propose. She enrolls herself into Love Rehab in order to find out what more she can do to please a man and get her HEA according to plan. It didn't take me long to figure out that the love Mackenzie speaks of isn't even real because she herself wasn't real. She's a people pleaser and for most of the book she wouldn't even acknowledge it (which drove me absolutely insane), but the H (Blake) helped her to realize her true self.
I loved Blake. I really appreciated his honesty and was grateful for his POV. He had his act together for the most part. His storyline was similar to the h's, but instead of trying to please he created distance in his relationships. He's been offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity but his fear makes him hesitant to take the risk or change the status quo. As he helps guide Mac to her truth, she inadvertently does the same for him in return.
These two together were incredibly endearing and insanely hot. Louise Bay created the perfect balance of feels and steam and this story grabbed my attention from its opening scene. This book was very low on angst or drama and very high on romance with a happy ending!
December 14, 2016
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review
A sweet sexy romance that was a symphony of love, hope, and self-discovery!! Love Rehab by Louise Bay was a fresh breath of air that ignites our heart’s desire in finding love, understanding, and happiness.
“I needed a cure. I needed my plan back on track. I needed Love Rehab.”
I have read several books from Louise Bay and I gotta say that Love Rehab was one sweet gem that left a big smile on my face. With her gorgeous prose, Louise creates a story that will awaken your senses as readers will get swept away with Mackenzie’s search and truth why she needed love rehab.
After three failed engagements and an almost walk down the aisle, Mackenzie needed to figure out why she can’t keep seem to find the forever kind of love. Love and marriage has always been in her plan but it seems life’s plan had a different course for her. And so, Mackenzie decides that she needs to head to Oklahoma for Love Rehab. As she brings her two best friends along with her, Mackenzie meets Blake, the night before her five day love rehab session.
“I could kiss her all night— her softness and her strength wound round me, pulling me toward her. There was no room for anything else. No room to think about my career, or my future. I was stuck in the moment— just where I needed to be. I wanted her, needed her.”
A one night stand should have stayed a one night stand but when Mackenzie discovers that Blake is also helping out in his sister’s love rehab program, she discovers that it is hard to stay away from him. It should have been just physical sex but something begins to ignite inside. Something intimate. Could two people who were just wandering through life discover that the wild, heart-tugging and earth shattering romance that they were looking for was standing in front of them?
“Having her near me, I wanted to talk to her. When I was talking to her, I wanted her closer. When I was closer, I wanted to kiss her, and now kissing her I wanted more.”
The beauty of this book is that Louise Bay allowed readers to feel for her characters and understand that love and life is truly a journey. It is seeing every flaws and embracing it and learning from our mistakes. Love may be the end goal but love can’t be fully grasped and defined until you acknowledge the one truth. Love yourself first. And for Mackenzie and Blake, their journey was a wild, freeing revelation. No one is truly lost. They just needed a little guide and push in the right direction. So if you are looking for a refreshing, sweet, sexy and touching love story that had sprinklings of humor then I suggest you Love Rehab by Louise Bay a try.
Louise Bay
A sweet sexy romance that was a symphony of love, hope, and self-discovery!! Love Rehab by Louise Bay was a fresh breath of air that ignites our heart’s desire in finding love, understanding, and happiness.
I have read several books from Louise Bay and I gotta say that Love Rehab was one sweet gem that left a big smile on my face. With her gorgeous prose, Louise creates a story that will awaken your senses as readers will get swept away with Mackenzie’s search and truth why she needed love rehab.
After three failed engagements and an almost walk down the aisle, Mackenzie needed to figure out why she can’t keep seem to find the forever kind of love. Love and marriage has always been in her plan but it seems life’s plan had a different course for her. And so, Mackenzie decides that she needs to head to Oklahoma for Love Rehab. As she brings her two best friends along with her, Mackenzie meets Blake, the night before her five day love rehab session.
A one night stand should have stayed a one night stand but when Mackenzie discovers that Blake is also helping out in his sister’s love rehab program, she discovers that it is hard to stay away from him. It should have been just physical sex but something begins to ignite inside. Something intimate. Could two people who were just wandering through life discover that the wild, heart-tugging and earth shattering romance that they were looking for was standing in front of them?
The beauty of this book is that Louise Bay allowed readers to feel for her characters and understand that love and life is truly a journey. It is seeing every flaws and embracing it and learning from our mistakes. Love may be the end goal but love can’t be fully grasped and defined until you acknowledge the one truth. Love yourself first. And for Mackenzie and Blake, their journey was a wild, freeing revelation. No one is truly lost. They just needed a little guide and push in the right direction. So if you are looking for a refreshing, sweet, sexy and touching love story that had sprinklings of humor then I suggest you Love Rehab by Louise Bay a try.
November 28, 2016
**I was given an ARC of Love Rehab*
OH MY! Where do I start?!
First off, let me just say, that this is the first time I’ve seriously connected with a character from any of the books I’ve read so far in my life. Love Rehab is one of the most inspiring books of 2016 and one of the most raw, honest, powerful, and profoundly beautiful stories I've ever read. It was not what I expected, but it delivered so much more than I ever hoped for. Louise Bay truly knocked it out of the park with this one. This is the kind of book that I would encourage every woman and man to read... LIKE NOW! There is inspiration to be found, no matter your gender.
It's a story of a woman, who is smart, caring, selfless and a loveaholic, who just can’t seem to get past being engaged. Always striving to be the best girlfriend, and always giving her significant other everything they want and need… but forgetting her own wants and needs along the way. She ends up, not being her true self in her relationships. She doesn’t realize, that this inevitably ruins them. Frustrated with her love life, she books a trip for herself along with two of her best friends, and endure self-reflection and challenges during this visit. Searching deep down inside, and facing their fears, coming to the realization of their own flaws, having to then change within themselves to live this “new” life and conquer. I honestly don't think I've ever been prouder of a heroine, than I have of Mackenzie.
Then, there's Blake. Blake is a strong, easy going, caring and loving man, who's at his own crossroads. Having to make a huge life changing career decision, he has deep conversations with Mackenzie at this retreat. They are not afraid to be themselves with each other, and things develop from there. I don't want to say anymore on that, but I will say this... these two together are hot! There is plenty of sexiness in this book, you're aware there is that chemistry. I will say, I'm glad it was not the focal point. You will end up loving these two chracters together!
I could go on about this book, but really you just need to indulge it yourself. I've loved Louise Bay’s books for a couple years now because, she always writes unique stories, and never disappoints... and this one has left a lasting mark on my heart. You'll notice as you read that there are no good stopping points. None at all. Just jump in, head first. It is a MUST-READ!!
OH MY! Where do I start?!
First off, let me just say, that this is the first time I’ve seriously connected with a character from any of the books I’ve read so far in my life. Love Rehab is one of the most inspiring books of 2016 and one of the most raw, honest, powerful, and profoundly beautiful stories I've ever read. It was not what I expected, but it delivered so much more than I ever hoped for. Louise Bay truly knocked it out of the park with this one. This is the kind of book that I would encourage every woman and man to read... LIKE NOW! There is inspiration to be found, no matter your gender.
It's a story of a woman, who is smart, caring, selfless and a loveaholic, who just can’t seem to get past being engaged. Always striving to be the best girlfriend, and always giving her significant other everything they want and need… but forgetting her own wants and needs along the way. She ends up, not being her true self in her relationships. She doesn’t realize, that this inevitably ruins them. Frustrated with her love life, she books a trip for herself along with two of her best friends, and endure self-reflection and challenges during this visit. Searching deep down inside, and facing their fears, coming to the realization of their own flaws, having to then change within themselves to live this “new” life and conquer. I honestly don't think I've ever been prouder of a heroine, than I have of Mackenzie.
Then, there's Blake. Blake is a strong, easy going, caring and loving man, who's at his own crossroads. Having to make a huge life changing career decision, he has deep conversations with Mackenzie at this retreat. They are not afraid to be themselves with each other, and things develop from there. I don't want to say anymore on that, but I will say this... these two together are hot! There is plenty of sexiness in this book, you're aware there is that chemistry. I will say, I'm glad it was not the focal point. You will end up loving these two chracters together!
I could go on about this book, but really you just need to indulge it yourself. I've loved Louise Bay’s books for a couple years now because, she always writes unique stories, and never disappoints... and this one has left a lasting mark on my heart. You'll notice as you read that there are no good stopping points. None at all. Just jump in, head first. It is a MUST-READ!!
October 24, 2018
DNF at 40%
The whole story is opens up with a very promising romance story. The insta love is there, the steamy sex is there, 2 gorgeous characters is there. I even like the idea there is a ranch that being used as therapy session. Love therapy. Talking to the horse is hilarious.
Then I lost it. Just lost it. This book turns out to be therapy session. A real therapy. I feel like I am talking to my therapy and my therapy telling me what is wrong with me. The different is the object of this therapy session is 2 characters who just very lost. They try to find the purpose of their life and understand love. But instead of more hot steamy sex, they spend their character development in just talking. And the conversation is dull and boring. No spark.
I just can not finish it.
2 stars
The whole story is opens up with a very promising romance story. The insta love is there, the steamy sex is there, 2 gorgeous characters is there. I even like the idea there is a ranch that being used as therapy session. Love therapy. Talking to the horse is hilarious.
Then I lost it. Just lost it. This book turns out to be therapy session. A real therapy. I feel like I am talking to my therapy and my therapy telling me what is wrong with me. The different is the object of this therapy session is 2 characters who just very lost. They try to find the purpose of their life and understand love. But instead of more hot steamy sex, they spend their character development in just talking. And the conversation is dull and boring. No spark.
I just can not finish it.
2 stars
July 16, 2023
Love Unexpected by Louise Bay is a standalone, contemporary romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. Told from both POV.
Tropes:
✔️ a non-cowboy hero
✔️ forced proximity
✔️ tortured heroine
The story revolves around Blake McKenna, a man looking for a distraction during his visit to his home town, & Mackenzie Locke, a Boston city girl seeking solace after her dreams shatter. Their unexpected encounter leads to a passionate connection that neither of them anticipated.
One of the aspects I loved about this book was the portrayal of strong & enduring friendships. Mackenzie's close bond with her two best friends adds depth to the story. The camaraderie & support they share create a sense of warmth and relatability, making the narrative even more enjoyable.
Both Blake & Mackenzie undergo significant self-reflection throughout the story. While Mackenzie's initial reluctance to acknowledge her own mistakes frustrated me, I appreciated her growth as she learned to confront her past & open herself up to true love. The character development extends beyond the main couple, as the supporting characters also experience personal transformations, enriching the overall reading experience.
The narrators brought Louise Bay's writing style to life, capturing the essence of the characters' emotions & creating an intimate atmosphere. The romance between Blake and Mackenzie is beautifully portrayed, striking a perfect balance between passion and tenderness. The steamy scenes are sensually written without overpowering the emotional depth of the story.
Overall, Love Unexpected is a captivating romance that delivers heartfelt character development, & steamy romance. If you're looking for a book that combines friendship, self-discovery, & passionate love, this is a great choice.
By the numbers review:
★ Hero 👤👤👤👤👤
★ Heroine 👤👤👤
★ Support. chars. 👤👤👤👤👤
★ Plot 📚📚📚📚📚
★ Romance 💕💕💕
★ Sexiness 🔥🔥🔥🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#contemporaryromance #steamyreads #tjlovestoread #louisebay #booksofinsta #romancebooks #romancereaders #readersofinstagram #reading #reader #bookshelf #bookworm #bookstagram #books #reading #ebooks #bookish
Tropes:
✔️ a non-cowboy hero
✔️ forced proximity
✔️ tortured heroine
The story revolves around Blake McKenna, a man looking for a distraction during his visit to his home town, & Mackenzie Locke, a Boston city girl seeking solace after her dreams shatter. Their unexpected encounter leads to a passionate connection that neither of them anticipated.
One of the aspects I loved about this book was the portrayal of strong & enduring friendships. Mackenzie's close bond with her two best friends adds depth to the story. The camaraderie & support they share create a sense of warmth and relatability, making the narrative even more enjoyable.
Both Blake & Mackenzie undergo significant self-reflection throughout the story. While Mackenzie's initial reluctance to acknowledge her own mistakes frustrated me, I appreciated her growth as she learned to confront her past & open herself up to true love. The character development extends beyond the main couple, as the supporting characters also experience personal transformations, enriching the overall reading experience.
The narrators brought Louise Bay's writing style to life, capturing the essence of the characters' emotions & creating an intimate atmosphere. The romance between Blake and Mackenzie is beautifully portrayed, striking a perfect balance between passion and tenderness. The steamy scenes are sensually written without overpowering the emotional depth of the story.
Overall, Love Unexpected is a captivating romance that delivers heartfelt character development, & steamy romance. If you're looking for a book that combines friendship, self-discovery, & passionate love, this is a great choice.
By the numbers review:
★ Hero 👤👤👤👤👤
★ Heroine 👤👤👤
★ Support. chars. 👤👤👤👤👤
★ Plot 📚📚📚📚📚
★ Romance 💕💕💕
★ Sexiness 🔥🔥🔥🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#contemporaryromance #steamyreads #tjlovestoread #louisebay #booksofinsta #romancebooks #romancereaders #readersofinstagram #reading #reader #bookshelf #bookworm #bookstagram #books #reading #ebooks #bookish
February 10, 2021
3.5/4 stars
December 9, 2016
4.5 stars!
I am addicted to her stories!
This was such a great read. I could totally relate to MacKenzie. I had the same issues when I was younger but never had the girlfriend connection like she did or the ability to head out for an intervention. What a fun concept!
And I just loved Blake! What an absolute perfect uncowboy cowboy and a beautiful, caring character that balanced MacKenzie perfectly.
With loads of hot and steamy encounters, it’s easy to get swept away into this delightful romance. These type of books are some of my favorite to read. Feel good, loads of steamy sex, a few emotional ups and downs, and the wonderful moment when it all comes together for a perfect ending.
When it comes to writing great contemporary romance novels, Louise Bay is quickly moving to the top of my favorites list. Great plots, beautiful writing, creative complex characters, and loads of romance keep you involved and leave you with a smile.
I am addicted to her stories!
This was such a great read. I could totally relate to MacKenzie. I had the same issues when I was younger but never had the girlfriend connection like she did or the ability to head out for an intervention. What a fun concept!
And I just loved Blake! What an absolute perfect uncowboy cowboy and a beautiful, caring character that balanced MacKenzie perfectly.
With loads of hot and steamy encounters, it’s easy to get swept away into this delightful romance. These type of books are some of my favorite to read. Feel good, loads of steamy sex, a few emotional ups and downs, and the wonderful moment when it all comes together for a perfect ending.
When it comes to writing great contemporary romance novels, Louise Bay is quickly moving to the top of my favorites list. Great plots, beautiful writing, creative complex characters, and loads of romance keep you involved and leave you with a smile.
August 28, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and Social Butterfly PR***
This book reminded me why I love Louise Bay.
It had everything. Blake and Mackenzie were wonderful, relateable and acted as people would in this situation...at least how I think they would having never been to a wilderness love retreat.
But, that is what matters...that as a reader, I am invested in the story and intereste4d in the characters and where they are going. I definitely was with this.
I sympathized with the choice Blake needed to make, as there was a lot of emotional baggage and I think it was handled well, and in a way that someone reading it would understand the difficulty of the decision he faced...to let go of the comfortable and familiar and to take a chance on something that had stung him in the past.
I loved that Mackenzie was facing the same kind of dilemma, but with a different focus...hers was more internal but she also had to look at herself, what was comfortable, and learn to be a different person so she could move forward.
I really liked this, the idea that both Blake and Mackenzie were facing the same decision, albeit one physical and one emotional. I loved the tie it gave them to one another, and I loved that this connection made their instant connection very understandable.
Honestly, I could say more, but at some point it just becomes impossible to avoid spoilers, so I am going to leave this here, with the highest possible recommendation.
If you have never read Louise bay before, starting here is a great place to begin. If you have, reading this will not disappoint.
I highly recommend this book.
This book reminded me why I love Louise Bay.
It had everything. Blake and Mackenzie were wonderful, relateable and acted as people would in this situation...at least how I think they would having never been to a wilderness love retreat.
But, that is what matters...that as a reader, I am invested in the story and intereste4d in the characters and where they are going. I definitely was with this.
I sympathized with the choice Blake needed to make, as there was a lot of emotional baggage and I think it was handled well, and in a way that someone reading it would understand the difficulty of the decision he faced...to let go of the comfortable and familiar and to take a chance on something that had stung him in the past.
I loved that Mackenzie was facing the same kind of dilemma, but with a different focus...hers was more internal but she also had to look at herself, what was comfortable, and learn to be a different person so she could move forward.
I really liked this, the idea that both Blake and Mackenzie were facing the same decision, albeit one physical and one emotional. I loved the tie it gave them to one another, and I loved that this connection made their instant connection very understandable.
Honestly, I could say more, but at some point it just becomes impossible to avoid spoilers, so I am going to leave this here, with the highest possible recommendation.
If you have never read Louise bay before, starting here is a great place to begin. If you have, reading this will not disappoint.
I highly recommend this book.
December 18, 2018
2.5 stars
I struggled till 45% and then skipped to the last chapter and epilogue.
I can't say if I liked the MCs. The h seemed weak, but since I didn't read about her (hopefully) getting stronger and more self-confident I can't say much.
The H was just ok.
It was a bit boring for me.
I struggled till 45% and then skipped to the last chapter and epilogue.
I can't say if I liked the MCs. The h seemed weak, but since I didn't read about her (hopefully) getting stronger and more self-confident I can't say much.
The H was just ok.
It was a bit boring for me.
November 29, 2016
I'm so glad I found Louise Bay, I look forward to her books now everytime a new book is announced and they never disappoint.
Love Rehab is different from previous books by Louise Bay but what is the same is Louise's ability to draw you into the story of the characters to enjoy their journey.
Love Rehab and Makenzies story is hot, thoughtful with moments that give you warm fuzzy's.
I loved it and I loved that it wasn't an office romance, variety is the spice of life and this sure had some hot and spice in the mix.
About the plot:
Mackenzie is not only unlucky in love but having been dumped three times before a wedding calls for drastic action when she takes herself and her two best friends to a love rehab in the country.
From a martini and manicure lifestyles to 5 days of no Internet or phones, log fires and cabins, Mackenzie and her girls although at first under protest begin to embark on a self discovery journey to find themselves, what they want from not only there relationships but what they want for their future.
Blake, I liked him, a hot sweet and straight talking none cowboy, a man who was always destined to be someone who made a difference rather than carry on the ranch working tradition of most men in his town.
Blake is on the verge of big career decisions and returns home to seek the advice of his straight talking sister who is one of those people who lashes out words of wisdom and always seems to say the right thing.
Blake sister Brianna is also the person who manages the love rehab, Blake offers to help with practical things on camp while he is staying there.
Told in dual pov's Love Rehab is the journey of two people finding love when they least expected it, starting a new, moving on from the past and embracing the future.
A perfect book to curl up with and enjoy.
Arc gratefully received for review Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
Love Rehab is different from previous books by Louise Bay but what is the same is Louise's ability to draw you into the story of the characters to enjoy their journey.
Love Rehab and Makenzies story is hot, thoughtful with moments that give you warm fuzzy's.
I loved it and I loved that it wasn't an office romance, variety is the spice of life and this sure had some hot and spice in the mix.
About the plot:
Mackenzie is not only unlucky in love but having been dumped three times before a wedding calls for drastic action when she takes herself and her two best friends to a love rehab in the country.
From a martini and manicure lifestyles to 5 days of no Internet or phones, log fires and cabins, Mackenzie and her girls although at first under protest begin to embark on a self discovery journey to find themselves, what they want from not only there relationships but what they want for their future.
Blake, I liked him, a hot sweet and straight talking none cowboy, a man who was always destined to be someone who made a difference rather than carry on the ranch working tradition of most men in his town.
Blake is on the verge of big career decisions and returns home to seek the advice of his straight talking sister who is one of those people who lashes out words of wisdom and always seems to say the right thing.
Blake sister Brianna is also the person who manages the love rehab, Blake offers to help with practical things on camp while he is staying there.
Told in dual pov's Love Rehab is the journey of two people finding love when they least expected it, starting a new, moving on from the past and embracing the future.
A perfect book to curl up with and enjoy.
Arc gratefully received for review Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
December 6, 2016
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book.
Holy geez Louise (pun intended)!!!
This book took me on a very personal journey of self reflection into how I've lived and loved, much like Mackenzie went through. I felt some parts of her love life mirrored my own, and I may or may not have cried throughout all of chapter 6. All. The. Feels. Feels that reached down into my soul and stirred something I dared not think about before.
Self reflection is very important. We should all take moments in our lives to evaluate our choices and where they have taken us. Love Rehab put me in that moment. It may be a work of fiction, but Mackenzie's tendencies to live for pleasing the man in her life and keeping him happy and wanting to stay is something many women can relate to. We all want to make sure our significant other is happy in the relationship, but we mustn't forego our own contentment in sacrifice.
Enough mush; I may cry again. Blake and Mackenzie's chemistry is off the charts, blazing, on another planet. The bond Louise created between these two blows insta-love out of the water. Though I cried, there were many moments where I found myself panting or fanning my face. UNF...Blake is the "uncowboy", having grown up on a ranch but was also a nerd and a jock, all rolled into one. I related to him in that I was a nerdy girl from a small town who didn't quite fit in either and found myself loving the city life.
I have read all of Louise Bay's books to date, and this has been my favorite by far. The writing was impeccable and the amount of emotion and love that poured out of the story is beyond compare. I'm curious to see if the series continues with Mackenzie's friends or Blake's brothers.
Holy geez Louise (pun intended)!!!
This book took me on a very personal journey of self reflection into how I've lived and loved, much like Mackenzie went through. I felt some parts of her love life mirrored my own, and I may or may not have cried throughout all of chapter 6. All. The. Feels. Feels that reached down into my soul and stirred something I dared not think about before.
Self reflection is very important. We should all take moments in our lives to evaluate our choices and where they have taken us. Love Rehab put me in that moment. It may be a work of fiction, but Mackenzie's tendencies to live for pleasing the man in her life and keeping him happy and wanting to stay is something many women can relate to. We all want to make sure our significant other is happy in the relationship, but we mustn't forego our own contentment in sacrifice.
Enough mush; I may cry again. Blake and Mackenzie's chemistry is off the charts, blazing, on another planet. The bond Louise created between these two blows insta-love out of the water. Though I cried, there were many moments where I found myself panting or fanning my face. UNF...Blake is the "uncowboy", having grown up on a ranch but was also a nerd and a jock, all rolled into one. I related to him in that I was a nerdy girl from a small town who didn't quite fit in either and found myself loving the city life.
I have read all of Louise Bay's books to date, and this has been my favorite by far. The writing was impeccable and the amount of emotion and love that poured out of the story is beyond compare. I'm curious to see if the series continues with Mackenzie's friends or Blake's brothers.
December 3, 2016
Review to come...
January 16, 2017
What's not to Love with a Louise Bay book :)
there are so many wonderful review written on here all I can say is they are so true !
yet another wonderful well written book :) xx
there are so many wonderful review written on here all I can say is they are so true !
yet another wonderful well written book :) xx
December 28, 2016
Slick's review
4.5 stars
There was something fresh about Louise Bay's Love Unexpected and I loved that both characters went through a lot of self reflection in this book yet it wasn't filled with a ton of angst. Meeting at a time when they were both at a crossroads in their lives, these two characters find in each other just what they wanted without even realizing it. Smart, funny, emotional and smokin' hot I thoroughly enjoyed Love Unexpected.
Following her third failed engagement, Mackenzie and her two best friends head to Oklahoma for five days of love rehab; a program designed to help women reevaluate their lives and see where they've gone wrong in their relationships and the men they pick, to help them understand those choices, change bad behaviors, and move forward. The night before they begin, Mackenzie, Kennedy and Rose head into the small town to a bar a night of fun and picking up men only the man Mackenzie decides to try a one night stand with just happens to be the Love Rehab counselor's brother, Blake, in town while making a big decision about his life.
At times I had a hard time with Mackenzie's character because it was like she refused to see or understand what everyone was telling her about her patterns with men, but I did like she eventually understood yet almost let the one man who truly "got" her and wanted her just the way she was get away.
There was something about Blake that I really loved, part of it was that he always wanted something bigger than the life he knew but was humbled when it didn't work out quite the way he thought it would. While that did cause him to be more cautious with his choices, when push came to shove he realized that sometimes you take chances and they don't work out but you have to live your life and have no regrets.
Together these two had some serious chemistry, but in the short time they spent together they also developed a great admiration for one another. They both wanted more from their lives and believed that helping others was important and something they were destined to do and while they had a couple of missteps in their relationship, they didn't let that stop them from eventually taking a chance and going after what they wanted both professionally and personally.
Engaging, romantic, and sexy, I loved Love Unexpected and hope we get to see some of the secondary characters from this book in the future.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
4.5 stars
There was something fresh about Louise Bay's Love Unexpected and I loved that both characters went through a lot of self reflection in this book yet it wasn't filled with a ton of angst. Meeting at a time when they were both at a crossroads in their lives, these two characters find in each other just what they wanted without even realizing it. Smart, funny, emotional and smokin' hot I thoroughly enjoyed Love Unexpected.
Following her third failed engagement, Mackenzie and her two best friends head to Oklahoma for five days of love rehab; a program designed to help women reevaluate their lives and see where they've gone wrong in their relationships and the men they pick, to help them understand those choices, change bad behaviors, and move forward. The night before they begin, Mackenzie, Kennedy and Rose head into the small town to a bar a night of fun and picking up men only the man Mackenzie decides to try a one night stand with just happens to be the Love Rehab counselor's brother, Blake, in town while making a big decision about his life.
At times I had a hard time with Mackenzie's character because it was like she refused to see or understand what everyone was telling her about her patterns with men, but I did like she eventually understood yet almost let the one man who truly "got" her and wanted her just the way she was get away.
There was something about Blake that I really loved, part of it was that he always wanted something bigger than the life he knew but was humbled when it didn't work out quite the way he thought it would. While that did cause him to be more cautious with his choices, when push came to shove he realized that sometimes you take chances and they don't work out but you have to live your life and have no regrets.
Together these two had some serious chemistry, but in the short time they spent together they also developed a great admiration for one another. They both wanted more from their lives and believed that helping others was important and something they were destined to do and while they had a couple of missteps in their relationship, they didn't let that stop them from eventually taking a chance and going after what they wanted both professionally and personally.
Engaging, romantic, and sexy, I loved Love Unexpected and hope we get to see some of the secondary characters from this book in the future.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
December 24, 2016
Because I'm the biggest fan of Louise Bay's books, this review is hard for me.
But
First, I have to recommend this book for everybody, especially readers with bigger brain capacity for psychology analyzing, than me.
personally, I felt overloaded with too much drama and emotional stuff (Except for the shaman doctor scene. that was true).
So, I skimmed a lot. Actually, most of the book.
The heroine had to go through a deep emotional process to understand why her three ex-fiances left her so Unexpectedly.
I didn't believe her progress. five days, isn't nearly enough to do such a huge change of thinking.
I know, it took me ten years..
So, combine with the doormat heroine that pleased everyone but herself, the long psychology analyzing and a lot of monologues..
Sorry, not for me.
But than again, my cynical view of the world is different, less patient for some things.
I know, my bad...
:-)
But
First, I have to recommend this book for everybody, especially readers with bigger brain capacity for psychology analyzing, than me.
personally, I felt overloaded with too much drama and emotional stuff (Except for the shaman doctor scene. that was true).
So, I skimmed a lot. Actually, most of the book.
The heroine had to go through a deep emotional process to understand why her three ex-fiances left her so Unexpectedly.
I didn't believe her progress. five days, isn't nearly enough to do such a huge change of thinking.
I know, it took me ten years..
So, combine with the doormat heroine that pleased everyone but herself, the long psychology analyzing and a lot of monologues..
Sorry, not for me.
But than again, my cynical view of the world is different, less patient for some things.
I know, my bad...
:-)
August 27, 2021
This was a pretty good read from an author that I have read before. Mackenzie has had the worst luck when it comes to a man and getting married. When she is dumped for the 3rd time while trying on a wedding dress she has had it. Mackenzie signs herself and her two best friend up for a week away from their Boston city life. Mackenzie is determined to leave this retreat with a plan to keep a man. Blake McKenna is back at his family's ranch to do some soul searching and make the biggest career decision of his life. He goes home to get advice from his sister and to get back to his hometown roots and find himself. What he didn't expect to find was Mackenzie. The last thing he's looking for is a relationship. These two had some hot chemistry and when they hook up. Mackenzie realizes she once again has feelings for another man. A man she assumes she will never see again. When Blake shows up the next morning to help his sister out with the new campers Mackenzie can't believe her luck This was a good read or listen as I listened to the book on audio and I loved the narration. This book was well written with no errors and really good narrators.
November 20, 2016
Blake's thoughts sometimes amused me, “what?” Did she mean the sex? I was pretty sure she wasn’t disappointed." It's quite apparent Blake has quite the stamina, "she shifted and I wrapped my arms around her, pulling her closer, her back to my front. “Again?” she asked, as I pushed my stirring erection against her ***." Blake isn't shy apparently, “sure, but are you peeing with the door open?” she asked. “We don’t know each other well enough to pee with the door open.” I really loved this book, and Blake I'm hoping the rest of his family get books of their own.
November 29, 2016
4.5 stars
***ARC received in exchange of an honest review***
I'll post my complete review later, but Love Rehab completely captivated me! I love this kind of sweet books. They prove sweet can be good!!!
***ARC received in exchange of an honest review***
I'll post my complete review later, but Love Rehab completely captivated me! I love this kind of sweet books. They prove sweet can be good!!!
November 11, 2020
3.5 stars
November 29, 2016
ARC provided by author for an honest review.
3.5 Uncowboy Stars
Mackenzie is dumped by her fiancee (the third one she's had) as she's trying on her wedding dress. She decides she needs to have an intervention. See... she's a love addict. At least that's what she thinks and calls herself. She enlists her two besties, Kennedy and Rose, to go with her to Love Rehab; a ranch in Oklahoma. As far away from the city Boston as they have ever gone ore are used to, which her friends aren't very happy about.
The three girls have one night to kick up their heels before starting the rehab's challenges and Mackenzie's friends, Kennedy and Rose, encourage her to let loose and not think too much about relationships. So she does and spends an amazing night with the only guy not wearing a cowboy hat. Blake, who tell's her he's a biochemist.
Blake is back home in Christie, Oklahoma to get some much needed perspective on the next step in his career. On one hand, he's afraid of the change as well as the possibility of failure. On the other hand, this is his dream and could mean big things for him, if he's willing to take the leap. And boy are they both surprise that he's going to be there, helping his sister who's excursion the girls are attending, and near Mackenzie for the next several days. But once Blake gets to know Mackenzie he's more confused than ever about the next steps in his life.
Mackenzie doesn't fair much better. She learns so much more about herself and her habits with men and where they stem from. She knows that she needs to be on her own and learn who she really is without a man in her life, but she's never been more herself than when she's with Blake.
These two are so confused about who they are alone and yet feel more themselves together. But neither is in the place to realize it and understand what they have.
When one waits too long to say what he really wants and the other believes she's not meant to be with the person who helped her transition into her new self and reality, will these two ever get out of their own way and find that they are their best selves together?.... You will need to read it to find out.
This was a really cute and fast read. This is my first time reading this author. It was light and sweet. I identified with Mackenzie and her lack of relationship with her father and how that's influenced her romantic life as an adult.
I have to say that one of the few reasons I didn't give it a bigger rating was; the girls are in Oklahoma for only 5 days, yet it felt like there were more days happening. So the book takes place primarily over the time they are there and it lingered a bit too much for me. I also wanted Blake to get a backbone and say what he wanted from Mackenzie. Knowing her history from being witness to her session in during the rehab, he had more insight than the average man to a woman's mind and her thinking. He just waited for her to make the moves for the most part.
Doesn't mean I didn't like it. I did and would read the author again. Those were just some of my reasons for not giving it a bigger rating.
3.5 Uncowboy Stars
Mackenzie is dumped by her fiancee (the third one she's had) as she's trying on her wedding dress. She decides she needs to have an intervention. See... she's a love addict. At least that's what she thinks and calls herself. She enlists her two besties, Kennedy and Rose, to go with her to Love Rehab; a ranch in Oklahoma. As far away from the city Boston as they have ever gone ore are used to, which her friends aren't very happy about.
The three girls have one night to kick up their heels before starting the rehab's challenges and Mackenzie's friends, Kennedy and Rose, encourage her to let loose and not think too much about relationships. So she does and spends an amazing night with the only guy not wearing a cowboy hat. Blake, who tell's her he's a biochemist.
Blake is back home in Christie, Oklahoma to get some much needed perspective on the next step in his career. On one hand, he's afraid of the change as well as the possibility of failure. On the other hand, this is his dream and could mean big things for him, if he's willing to take the leap. And boy are they both surprise that he's going to be there, helping his sister who's excursion the girls are attending, and near Mackenzie for the next several days. But once Blake gets to know Mackenzie he's more confused than ever about the next steps in his life.
Mackenzie doesn't fair much better. She learns so much more about herself and her habits with men and where they stem from. She knows that she needs to be on her own and learn who she really is without a man in her life, but she's never been more herself than when she's with Blake.
These two are so confused about who they are alone and yet feel more themselves together. But neither is in the place to realize it and understand what they have.
When one waits too long to say what he really wants and the other believes she's not meant to be with the person who helped her transition into her new self and reality, will these two ever get out of their own way and find that they are their best selves together?.... You will need to read it to find out.
This was a really cute and fast read. This is my first time reading this author. It was light and sweet. I identified with Mackenzie and her lack of relationship with her father and how that's influenced her romantic life as an adult.
I have to say that one of the few reasons I didn't give it a bigger rating was; the girls are in Oklahoma for only 5 days, yet it felt like there were more days happening. So the book takes place primarily over the time they are there and it lingered a bit too much for me. I also wanted Blake to get a backbone and say what he wanted from Mackenzie. Knowing her history from being witness to her session in during the rehab, he had more insight than the average man to a woman's mind and her thinking. He just waited for her to make the moves for the most part.
Doesn't mean I didn't like it. I did and would read the author again. Those were just some of my reasons for not giving it a bigger rating.
December 7, 2016
3.75 stars
I was excited to get a chance to read Love Rehab after enjoying Louise's previous book. It was the blurb that caught my attention. While I didn't love it as much as I was hoping, I did like it though. The premise was really interesting. Love rehab would make such a hit if it were true. Our heroine Mackenzie believes her problem is she's loveholic or so thinks. If only things were that simple.
I really did think the concept behind it a ranch away from everything to help the love life of people and maybe understand themselves more was a terrific idea. More clarity it would really be helpful for many to have a this kind of place. The backstory had to be built up so it started slow and didn't grab me immediately but picked up . Many will be able to relate on the how the heroine views her life, carefully planned to each moment hit on certain times. Unfortunately, we all know that life doesn't always go accordingly.
When Blake and Mackenzie first met the attraction was instant. City girl and not so cowboy, something drew them together. Neither expected to see each other again and yet that chemistry is hard to deny. Lust was strong with these two. Maybe Love Rehab really meant to bring people together too.
Mackenzie and her outlook made me want to shake her or slap her silly. She was thinking that entering Love Rehab would be the shortcut to finding her HEA. Quick fix to all her worries. They actually gave solid advice, to really look inside yourself, find roots causes to the problem. Seriously I don't know if she was stubborn or just dense in some her not so finest moments. Outside looking in I can see that her what her best friend said was spot on, how she views men and how she acts. I know sometimes accepting faults is hard but to get what she wants means she needs to be honest with herself to make it better. Thankfully she gets some growth and figures it out.
Blake was the perfect mix of cowboy and city. I think at heart country but he is smart and ambitious. He is pretty straightforward which I appreciated. He seemed more level headed even though also lost. Maybe he can help Mackenzie figure out things and vice versa. From m point of view seems that he gets through to her well.
I definitely liked the sister Brianna, she knows what she saying. Intuitive too which is surprising since most advice places can be a lot of all talk but here it was pretty simple. The two friends made me curious. Kennedy was also an interesting character, open minded and honest. Rose with her penchant for office romances. All in all not bad at all, lot of things made sense with the story, some things are worth the risk. It's a pretty good lesson about self love and being open. The other characters were kept my interest going. It sorta also leaves two storylines open for the future books. No idea yet if the author plans on adding more but I'd like to read their story. Love Rehab is a pretty light, easy read with heat and heart.
** ARC kindly provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review **
I was excited to get a chance to read Love Rehab after enjoying Louise's previous book. It was the blurb that caught my attention. While I didn't love it as much as I was hoping, I did like it though. The premise was really interesting. Love rehab would make such a hit if it were true. Our heroine Mackenzie believes her problem is she's loveholic or so thinks. If only things were that simple.
I really did think the concept behind it a ranch away from everything to help the love life of people and maybe understand themselves more was a terrific idea. More clarity it would really be helpful for many to have a this kind of place. The backstory had to be built up so it started slow and didn't grab me immediately but picked up . Many will be able to relate on the how the heroine views her life, carefully planned to each moment hit on certain times. Unfortunately, we all know that life doesn't always go accordingly.
When Blake and Mackenzie first met the attraction was instant. City girl and not so cowboy, something drew them together. Neither expected to see each other again and yet that chemistry is hard to deny. Lust was strong with these two. Maybe Love Rehab really meant to bring people together too.
Mackenzie and her outlook made me want to shake her or slap her silly. She was thinking that entering Love Rehab would be the shortcut to finding her HEA. Quick fix to all her worries. They actually gave solid advice, to really look inside yourself, find roots causes to the problem. Seriously I don't know if she was stubborn or just dense in some her not so finest moments. Outside looking in I can see that her what her best friend said was spot on, how she views men and how she acts. I know sometimes accepting faults is hard but to get what she wants means she needs to be honest with herself to make it better. Thankfully she gets some growth and figures it out.
Blake was the perfect mix of cowboy and city. I think at heart country but he is smart and ambitious. He is pretty straightforward which I appreciated. He seemed more level headed even though also lost. Maybe he can help Mackenzie figure out things and vice versa. From m point of view seems that he gets through to her well.
I definitely liked the sister Brianna, she knows what she saying. Intuitive too which is surprising since most advice places can be a lot of all talk but here it was pretty simple. The two friends made me curious. Kennedy was also an interesting character, open minded and honest. Rose with her penchant for office romances. All in all not bad at all, lot of things made sense with the story, some things are worth the risk. It's a pretty good lesson about self love and being open. The other characters were kept my interest going. It sorta also leaves two storylines open for the future books. No idea yet if the author plans on adding more but I'd like to read their story. Love Rehab is a pretty light, easy read with heat and heart.
** ARC kindly provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review **
May 26, 2017
Review coming soon
December 8, 2016
I love all of Louise Bay’s books and I think this may be my new favourite, it is very different from her usual style and I loved that it was. I loved the setting for this story and the characters were fantastic from the leads to the best friends, wise sisters and wiser horses this book has it all with a big helping of humour and soul searching insights.
MacKenzie is unlucky in love and yet all she wants is to find the perfect man to settle down with, following another rejection she drags her best friends off to Love Rehab to learn where she is going wrong but learns more about herself than she bargained on. Her first night in Oklahoma sees her throwing caution to the wind with a drunk one night stand that is supposed to be her first act of defying love but when her one night stand turns up at the ranch things are not going to be so easy.
Blake was a lovely character that I took to straight away, who doesn���t love a hot cowboy with a serving of geek mixed in. I loved how he got a measure of MacKenzie so quickly, thanks a lot to the rehabs quirky self-discovery programmes maybe but he still saw through her façade. Blake is home on the ranch to take time out with a life dilemma and wasn’t counting on meeting anyone to further confuse the issue so MacKenzie seems like a good distraction. Until she no longer was.
I loved the pace of this book, though it starts with a one night stand I loved the slow pace that it seemed to take and as such the relationship building between the main characters felt more like a slow burn too. I found myself surprised to realise that the girls stay at the ranch was only five days as they headed for home. A lovely enjoyable read that will also have you doing some soul searching of your own.
MacKenzie is unlucky in love and yet all she wants is to find the perfect man to settle down with, following another rejection she drags her best friends off to Love Rehab to learn where she is going wrong but learns more about herself than she bargained on. Her first night in Oklahoma sees her throwing caution to the wind with a drunk one night stand that is supposed to be her first act of defying love but when her one night stand turns up at the ranch things are not going to be so easy.
Blake was a lovely character that I took to straight away, who doesn���t love a hot cowboy with a serving of geek mixed in. I loved how he got a measure of MacKenzie so quickly, thanks a lot to the rehabs quirky self-discovery programmes maybe but he still saw through her façade. Blake is home on the ranch to take time out with a life dilemma and wasn’t counting on meeting anyone to further confuse the issue so MacKenzie seems like a good distraction. Until she no longer was.
I loved the pace of this book, though it starts with a one night stand I loved the slow pace that it seemed to take and as such the relationship building between the main characters felt more like a slow burn too. I found myself surprised to realise that the girls stay at the ranch was only five days as they headed for home. A lovely enjoyable read that will also have you doing some soul searching of your own.
December 12, 2016
4.5 Cocktails
Louise Bay does it again! I never know what to expect with her books, but I know I'm always going to love the characters.
Blake and Makenzie were easy to love. Makenzie was easy to connect with and understand why she needed to rehab her love life. And when she was down and feeling like she was a failure at this too, you wanted her to realize that for once she was being true to herself even if she didn't see it. Blake brought out the real Makenzie, helping her understand herself and what she wanted out of her life. But at the same time, Makenzie helped Blake make a decision about whether he wanted to follow his dream or not.
If you're looking for a book that is fun, sexy and a little angsty LOVE REHAB is one that you should pick up. The storyline is engaging, the characters easy to connect to and their romance one you can completely get behind.
Louise Bay does it again! I never know what to expect with her books, but I know I'm always going to love the characters.
Blake and Makenzie were easy to love. Makenzie was easy to connect with and understand why she needed to rehab her love life. And when she was down and feeling like she was a failure at this too, you wanted her to realize that for once she was being true to herself even if she didn't see it. Blake brought out the real Makenzie, helping her understand herself and what she wanted out of her life. But at the same time, Makenzie helped Blake make a decision about whether he wanted to follow his dream or not.
If you're looking for a book that is fun, sexy and a little angsty LOVE REHAB is one that you should pick up. The storyline is engaging, the characters easy to connect to and their romance one you can completely get behind.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews