The Wrong Exit Strategy

Apparently It's Love #2

by Laura Ashley Gallagher

Blurb coming soon

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 4, 2026

About the author

Laura Ashley was born and raised in Ireland, where she spent a large part of her childhood and teenage years studying music. Drawn to people’s stories and a lifelong storyteller, she went on to study journalism. Laura Ashley specializes in crafting stories with heaps of romance and maybe even a few tears. When she is not writing, she is spending time and having fun with her husband and young son.

Reviews

[Rayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laura Ashley Gallagher is criminally underrated. Anyone looking for a new favourite romcom author needs to try one of her books!

I adored this one! I was on the edge of my seat waiting for her to bail on her wedding and that scene of Griff coming to the rescue was so good. I really enjoyed their friendship in the beginning and getting to see that develop into more was great. I just loved how easily they fell together and how comfortable they were with each other.

I also really loved how the author chose to write about the past. Instead of flipping back and forth from past to present (which I don’t do well with because I have no patience and want to skip the past chapters to get to the present timeline), this story went in chronological order showing all of the past first briefly.

While Piper had moments where she came off a bit spoiled, she deserved it after what she went through for years. Plus, I think Griffin loved it. Besides that, she was so loveable and funny. She matched Griffin’s dry, slightly grumpy personality well and together they were so fun!

This book was so fun and funny! The romance was romancing and their road trip was such a vibe it got me in the mood for summer!


Thank you so much to the author for the ARC!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart broke. My heart healed. I finished it in 24hrs.

After a chance discovery through the Threads algo, I managed to score an ARC for This Wasn't The Plan. And boy... the little hints of great writing in the snippets of dialogue she shared online did not prepare me for the consistently amazing and utter delicious prose throughout the whole book. *chef's kiss with a cherry on top*

So when I got the opportunity to read her next ARC, I kicked-off my heels and ran to the sign-up sheet so fast... The Flash would be proud. 😏

And girrrrrrrrrrrrl... She. Did. It. Again. 🙂‍↔️
The way Laura Ashley Gallagher writes heartbreak just hits… It feels so real and so familiar for so many women, especially in all the little thoughts and behaviors. But at the same time, the quirky, fun sides of the characters keep surprising me. That balance?? Gets me every time. 💔✨

My favorite quotes:

I look like I'm playing a part I never auditioned for.

All my emotions feel contradictory and impossible to sort out: the grief of losing something I chose, the relief of losing it, the grief over the relief, the guilt of both.

Gerald watches me from under Piper's arm with his far-apart, all-knowing eyes. I'm almost certain he saw everything. Say nothing, I tell him silently. He says nothing. Good penguin.

The music starts pumping into our ears, and instantly, we become two of the least coordinated humans on the planet. Griffin starts doing a little finger-point move, and I nearly get poked in the eye twice. I'm doing something that looks like interpretive whale choreography. It's the best time I've had in years.

What it is about:
On the day of her wedding, the “perfect” girl finally breaks... and runs. What follows is a road trip down the California coast with her brother’s best friend Griffin, the one person who’s always seen her clearly. Between quiet moments, old feelings, and the freedom she’s never allowed herself, Piper has to figure out who she really is... and what she actually wants.

What I loved:
✍️the dedication "For the ones finding their way back to themselves. Take your time. You'll get there."
🌐the world-building in the 1st chapter (10 yrs ago) and 2nd chapter (5 yrs ago), giving insight both into the family dynamics but also how Griffin fits in
🧔‍♂️her dad, OMG that amazing man, who really saw her - despite all the sh*t he's got going on at home "You want to run, baby? You run."
👵his grandma, who was raising a husband, teaching him to waltz, write handwritten letters and apologize without caveats #blessthatwoman
🔥the slow build-up, because he was prioritising her healing #swoon
🐧her F.U.C.K.I.N.G. emotional support stuffed penguin with the crooked eyes named Gerald that he not only acknowledges but fully embraces #doubleswoon
🐶how he is such a golden retriever: giving her space, letting her make all the decisions, following her pace, serving as her "confessional", sharing his hoodie👀,...
🤣how she gets all terroritorial, licking his face and threatening to pee on him #LOL
💔her heartbreaking -and realistic- family situation, where she had to make herself small enough to avoid further disruption, which set her up for the controlling relationship she got stuck in

What I struggled with:
NOTHING. AT. ALL.

What you need to know:
📚interconnected standalone, part of the Apparently It's Love series
🫂dual POV, 1st person
🛣️roadtrip romance
❌brother's best friend
👰bad boy nerd x runaway bride
🎻structural engineer x violinist
🛏️"forced" proximity
🐌slow burn
🧓small age gap (28h x 34H)
🎭banter & bickering
👗summer dresses
💅caretaking hero
❤️‍🩹emotional healing
❤️HEA

For the safety squad:
🌶️spice: explicit sexual content, no condom,...
🦺content warnings: mental illness (bipolar, mom), emotional manipulation, anxiety, panic attacks, loss of identity within relationships, alcohol use, drug use (weed),...

[Heather Dance · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review:
🌶️4 ⭐️: 5

Piper Callahan is on her way to being a world famous Violinist. That is until she lets the “love of her life” emotionally abuse and control her for the last 3 years. On the day of their wedding her father says “if you want to run, RUN!” Griffin Hayes is Piper’s older brother’s best friend. Her life long crush and hero in disguise. He promised her he’d be her get away driver at her rehearsal dinner, little did he know that is exactly what would happen. The two of them end up taking a two week vacation all over the coast before having to face reality. What was supposed to be an escape turned into big feelings between the two that she’s not ready to face. In Griffin fashion, he promised he would wait for her until she was ready. Piper takes her time figuring everything out but one piece was missing… Griffin Hayes.

Preorder now to see what happens between these two and watch Piper find herself again 💕

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️. This was a beautifully written story. It’s almost equal parts hurt/comfort romance and the story of a woman finding herself after an emotionally abusive relationship.

🥰. The story mixes humor with deeper issues, as we see two people who truly trust and care for each other fall in love through a thousand small moments.

The first 80% is so artfully done. It is the story of her leaving her fiancé at the altar and jumping in Griffin’s Camaro in front of the church and going on a two week impromptu road trip.

Griffin has known her since they were children and basically grew up in her house. He’s always been protective of her and she, at one point, had a small crush on him. However, unlike other childhood friends to lover stories, there are no hidden agendas, no hidden feelings, just two adults who love and trust each other, finding each other at the right time. (And mayybeeee realizing that they had deeper feelings than they realized for each other. 🤷🏻‍♀️)

The last 20% is her taking space to heal, him giving her that space and waiting, and then their reconnection. The separation felt true to the story and necessary.

Piper 🎻 Griffin

❤️ Third act separation. They are apart 6 months while she recovers from the emotional abuse and finds herself. She is honest with him about why she needs time, he shares his feelings, but respects her choice and waits. It wasn’t drawn out; simply a “6 month later” epilogue.
🗣️Communication - This is absolutely beautifully done. At every point in the story, they are honest with each other. They don’t hide their feelings or engage in anything but total honestly. I loved the car “confessionals” during the road trip. So much mutual respect.
🎻Gifted violinist and bridge engineer
➡️Brothers best friend/family friend to confidante to love. I really like that this is not the typical “brothers best friend” trope. Nothing kept them apart, there was no handwringing. It wasn’t an issue.
🫣No OM/OW: We don’t know anything about their pasts, other than her terrible ex fiancé, Ezra. It’s not an issue. At one point, there is a psychic at a festival that tries to claim she’s Griffins soulmate and I love how Piper licked his face to claim him. Lol
🐧. Small moments - So many small moments on the road trip that helped create their bond - I also loved how they bickered a little. It made their relationship feel so real.
🌸 Nicknames- Pipes, runaway, baby, violin girl
🧠Mental health rep. - I love how Griffin defended her family after hearing that her ex tried to gaslight her into thinking that she might be unstable. She also later gets therapy during their 6 month separation to deal with the trauma from losing her identity during her relationship w Ezra.
🌶️Spice - this is a bit of a slow burn. Space starts around 50%. There’s like a literal minute of hesitation afterward but I loved how she set Griffin straight and stood her ground. And that was it - just respect and steamy times ahead.
👥Dual POV; HEA. 6 month later and then 10 yr later epilogues. Married w two kids.

This is a stand alone and could be read without reading the first book in the series, but I do think the story reads better having the perspective from the first book. In the first book we start to see the issues in the relationship and get a more in depth look at the mom’s mental health struggles, which are significant.

It’s really mostly her story - the story of a woman who slowly lost herself and her identity and then reclaims her joy and sprit. Griffin is a pivotal but, ultimately a supporting character, in her realizing her potential.

❤️ I adored these two and their story. I dropped a 1/2 star because I wanted a little bit more time with them when they first got back together after the 6 months. It just felt a bit abrupt…. She goes to him, then he’s helping her hang a painting and then they’re having sex in the shower…. ? I just wanted more “I love you’s” and time snuggling or hugging. 🤗. We don’t get the ‘i love you’s’ until the 2nd epilogue.



Favorite bits: spoilers (in no order) ‼️‼️‼️
- the first town when she arrived in her wedding dress and how they became ‘famous’
- Gerald, the stuffed penguin he won for her at the fair w the wonky eyes and how the penguin went everywhere
- the love of Fleetwood Mac
- when she walks in the hotel room and accidentally sees him naked and says penis like 3 times and then he just walks outside and they talk about jt
- them treating Gerald as tho he was real and how he shows up in the epilogue
- him talking about his bridge and the design of the harps facing each other
- the ‘confessionals’ in the car when they would share little bits of each other.
- when she tells him that she’s proud of him and when he says the same to her after her first big concert performance (he writes it in a note)
- Her playing the violin at the festival and at the bar, refinding her love of music and sense of self.
- the tent they shared at the festival and how high she got
- when she played the Irish song on her violin bc her mom was Irish
- the yellow dress she loved
- when Griffin punches Ezra in the face
- all the little moments that make it so real - bickering about her feet on the dash, her not helping w the tent, him putting up the picture in her apt and her being v specific about where she wants it. lol

[Amanda Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author:

Finding the Thread Back to Yourself

I am completely head over heels for this book! It is a breathtaking, emotional, and intensely romantic journey about breaking free from a suffocating cage and finding your way centre stage where you belong.

The Story & The Vibe

Piper Callahan is a brilliant, world-class violinist who has spent years "turning down her volume" to fit into her controlling fiancé Ezra’s picture-perfect brand. On her wedding day, standing in a dress she didn't choose, she realizes she doesn't even recognize the woman in the mirror. In a spectacular moment of bravery, she turns around and bolts mid-aisle. Waiting at the curb in his car is Griffin, her brother's best friend and a brilliant engineer who has been a fixture in her family for thirteen years. What follows is an unforgettable road trip where Griffin helps Piper dust off her passion and piece her life back together.

Why it Works:

The Dynamic: The history between Piper and Griffin makes their connection so incredibly deep. Griffin is a "bad boy look / total nerd" mix who likes things that make sense, but when it comes to Piper, he just knows her. Watching him fiercely protect her while trying not to be "the next asshole" who takes advantage of her vulnerability is magnificent.

The Reality of Shrinking: The emotional depth in this book is staggering. The description of how Ezra made Piper feel like she was "too much" just by existing, forcing her to shrink until she felt like an actress missing her mark, is handled with so much empathy and realism.

The Brilliant Banter & Humour: This road trip is full of spectacular comedy. From the accidental public announcements about Griffin's prowess in bed to his deep suspicion of silent discos ("This is how cults start... I’ve seen the documentaries"), the dialogue is top-tier. And let's not forget Gerald the penguin!

The Symbolic Masterclass: The text is full of gorgeous motifs. The "ball of string" opening in Chapter 18 acts as a beautiful metaphor for how tangled we get when we live for others, and how satisfying it is to finally track the thread back to yourself.

This is a flawless contemporary romance. The transition from a suffocating, manufactured life to the freedom of a music festival where you can dance like you're "avoiding snipers" is pure magic. The steam is incredibly high; Griffin in just a towel is a core memory; but it's the emotional safety he provides that makes this a masterpiece. The ten-year material epilogue was the absolute perfect ending to their story.

In a world trying to turn her volume down, Griffin gave Piper the stage to be a force—a 5-star masterpiece that proves home isn't a place you build, it’s the person who makes you feel entirely enough.

[Jazz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for allowing me to read this ARC. To sum this book up in one word it would simply be “phenomenal”. This had me hooked from the start and I flew through it in the space of few hours. Piper and Griffin have my entire heart. I think the world needs for Griffin’s and definitely the courage of Piper in more women. The utter bravery of this character and her development throughout the book was heartwarming and so important for us to read about. We should never shrink ourselves to meet a man’s criteria. I need to read more of Laura’s work asap!

[Spice_and_Spine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this author’s writing. Her books are the perfect palate cleanser when you’ve been immersed in dark romance and fantasy for a while—which, if you’re anything like me, happens often.

So when this ARC landed in my inbox, I downloaded it immediately and devoured it in less than 24 hours.

This story follows Piper and Griffin in a beautifully written brother’s best friend romance.

Piper is set to marry her fiancé of three years, but on the day of the wedding, she realizes she can’t go through with it. With the support of her family—who have seen how much she’s changed during that relationship—she makes the brave decision to run. Griffin, her brother’s best friend and someone who’s always cared deeply for her, is the one who helps her escape.

What begins as a two-week break from reality quickly becomes something far more meaningful.

One of my favourite things about this book is that it doesn’t rely on the typical “I’ve secretly loved you forever” trope. Yes, Piper had a teenage crush on Griffin at sixteen (which, let’s be honest, is basically a rite of passage when you have an older brother), but by the time this story begins, they are two adults who know each other well and genuinely want the best for one another.

As they spend time away from their everyday responsibilities, they begin to see that their connection might be something more.

Piper’s previous relationship was emotionally manipulative, filled with subtle gaslighting that left her doubting herself. I really appreciated that Griffin doesn’t “fix” her. Instead, he supports her as she starts to rediscover who she is. He loves her enough to help her heal, even if that means letting her go.

That made their relationship feel authentic, mature, and incredibly moving.

This is a true slow burn, with the spice not arriving until around the 60% mark. But it never feels like it’s dragging. The pacing is beautifully done, and when the romance does turn steamy, it feels natural and well-earned.

The chemistry is wonderful, the emotional development is strong, and the story is both heartwarming and satisfying.

You don’t need to have read Piper’s sister’s book first. Some familiar characters appear, but this works perfectly well as a standalone.

Overall, this was a fantastic read, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys:
• Brother’s best friend romance
• Slow burn
• Runaway bride
• Emotional healing
• Supportive hero

[Maddie Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, read it on a flight. Excited for the next sister’s story

[Lottie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 4.75/5 stars ⭐

Laura. LAURA. I didn't think you could smash it out of the park quite like you did with This Wasn't The Plan (if you haven't read it, please immediately rectify that), but here we are... asked and answered, your honour. Every single thing I could have possibly wanted to know about Piper? Delivered. Fully. I am happy and I am grateful.

I haven't read Laura's entire back catalogue yet, but I have complete and utter faith that she possesses this incredible gift for writing through the full spectrum of human emotion in genuinely troubling scenarios... and yet you're there, reading it, feeling the full weight of it because it's so achingly real, but you stick around because you care so deeply about these characters. The emotional investment is not optional. It just happens to you.

I was praying Piper wouldn't go through with that wedding. That morning sequence, while she's getting ready? I was screaming at the book. Actual screaming. And then she started walking down the aisle and the fear I had that she was about to make the worst mistake of her life had my heart racing so fast my watch gave me a health alert. My WATCH. But no... she ran. She ran right into the arms (and car) of Griff, and thank god that she did.

Piper, even from the first book, always felt destined for something more. It just took years of her douchetool boyfriend-turned-fiancé chipping away at her self-esteem, reducing her to something close to worthless, a trophy to dress up and display once he'd moulded her into his very own Barbie doll. Watching her claw her way back to herself across the course of this road trip, reclaiming her self-worth (which is hard enough at the best of times, let alone mid-escape from your own wedding)... it was nothing short of heroic. She did it with humour, with vulnerability, with her heart wide open, and I was absolutely close to tears. Several times.

And then there's Griffin. This man and the piece of home on his keys nearly destroyed me, by the way. I don't think a greener flag book boyfriend exists in the entire literary world. The quest for Gerald the penguin (who becomes a fully iconic character in his own right), the slow build of love and quiet, steady pride in Piper... be still my heart. He gave her space to make her own choices. He gave her safety, warmth, and yes, his hoodie. A piece of him lives in me now and I'm not even sorry.

This book gave me everything. The humour (Piper licking Griff to claim him, threatening to pee on him, the car confessionals... I howled). The romance (the spice, the trust, THE TENT). The vulnerability and the caretaking... that shopping trip after she was left with nothing but her wedding dress on nearly broke me in half. The way she'd spent so long making herself small because of her mum and everything that came with that, but with Griff, she finally let herself shine. I felt that.

I cannot believe there's another book to come, but Laura, thank you. Genuinely. I will be shouting about this one from the rooftops right alongside This Wasn't The Plan. You've done it again.

Thank you to Laura Gallagher for providing this ARC of The Wrong Exit Strategy in exchange for my honest review.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wrong Exit Strategy is a great follow-up to This Wasn't the Plan. While the beginning of the book was a bit rough when it came to the whole "runaway bride" situation, I felt that based on the first few chapters, Piper and Griffin's romance was written in the stars...they just took a few detours to get to that point. The fact that Griffin was there to help Piper escape her own wedding was the first sign of Griffin being "the one" and that is what made me keep reading...because if a guy who you've known for most of your life, is there for you on your best and worst day of your life, you know he'll be there for every other good and bad day.

The road trip that they went on, definitely renewed old feelings that Piper and Griffin had for each other. While the relationship between Piper and Griffin is the main focus of the book, it is also about Piper finding herself again after being in a 3 year relationship with a controlling narcissist.

Just based on the first few pages, I knew that while Ezra didn't physically abuse Piper, the fact that he controlled pretty much everything she did...he deserved what was coming for him...in fact Ezra's whole family deserved it. Piper's family, on the other hand, had an idea of what was happening, but they couldn't really say anything except support Piper in whatever she decided to do. This showed so much unconditional love. I also felt that when it came to her siblings and parents, they knew what was coming and knew that Piper would ultimately make the right choice even if others didn't see it that way.

Throughout the roadtrip, Piper became more of herself and I loved seeing the transformation. Nothing makes me happier than seeing the female lead in a book become who she's meant to be while also finding joy, love, and purpose. I also loved that Griffin was there for her every step of the way and gave her space when necessary.

Overall, this is a great continuation of the Apparently It's Love series and is great for readers who enjoy mental health representation and self discovery and growth in their books. While it's not explicitly stated, the fact that she was able to get out of a passive aggressive relationship with her ex-fiance, Piper showed strength in doing that and it paid off in all aspects of her life.

I also recommend this book to readers who enjoy road trips along the California coast line, festival shenanigans, childhood friends to lovers, forced proximity, and brother's best friend romances.

Thank you to the author for the review copy. All opinions are my own.

[ReadsByMochi · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW - BOOK RELEASES JUNE 4

The Wrong Exit Strategy is a story that I - and many others - can relate to. A story about changing yourself for the person you love. The belief that their words and actions are for your sake, no matter how much they sting. No matter how lost you feel. To the point where you don’t recognize yourself when you look in the mirror.

Piper is getting married to Ezra, a man she has known for three years, and who she believes loves her and only wants the best. The thing is, in those three years, he had gaslit her into believing that he was too loud, too moody, and overall too much. That she needed to push her passion - her amazing talent and career as a professional violinist - aside for him. She finally realizes that something is wrong on her wedding day, and runs away… right into the car of Griffin, a man she has known basically her whole life. Griffin is an engineer who is back in California for a two week vacation before heading upstate to work on a project. He lost his parents at a young age, and was raised by his Grandma with structure rather than love. The love he received was from the Callahan family, making him the self-appointed protector of Piper - who he immediately noticed was different from the girl he knew growing up.

Griffin is probably one of my favorite MMC’s of all time. He realizes that the girl he knew had changed into someone that he didn’t recognize. He never forced her to talk about what happened with Ezra. He listened, encouraged, and took her on a road trip that allowed her to relearn who she is. He creates the perfect environment for her to grieve, reflect, and experience true joy for the first time in years. With every small town, hotel, and scenic road they took, Piper and Griffin become closer than ever, and work through their own feelings with the support of each other. Watching them fall in love was such a beautiful and healing adventure. This book was so difficult to put down, and I ended up finishing it in one day. Reading Piper’s story about how she was looking for external love reminded me so much of my own life. A mother who is sick, and a partner who I felt like I had to change myself for. The blow it does to your self esteem and self worth is huge. It takes time and the right support system to recover, and Gallagher did an incredible job portraying that. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see how she tackles Rowan and Hudson!

[Katie Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Siri play Getaway Car by Taylor Swift👀 This song was stuck in my head for the early chapters of this book and for good reason. We had a glimpse of Piper in her sister Maddison’s book (This Wasn’t the Plan) and it was oh so clear from her sisters pov that Piper was not acting herself and I had a sneaky suspicion this was down to her groom to be and oh how her brothers bestfriend may just have the tiniest crush on her🤭

And so this is where this book picks up, we see Piper preparing for her wedding day and even though it is her day her choices are overlooked and her fiancé gets the final say. But this is not just wedding specific oh no, Piper realises that she in fact is losing herself in this relationship. There is no compromise it is his way or the highway so to speak and that means that Piper put her dreams on hold.

Now when we come to the wedding rehearsal dinner and day Piper has cold feet but Griff her brothers bestfriend suggests that he will gladly be her getaway driver if it comes down to it. Moments before she walks down the aisle she realises she cannot go through with it, and then talks herself out of it only to proceed walking down the aisle. All it took was a few encouraging words from her father to up and leave and honestly you could see how proud he was of her for making that huge decision. He could see clearly she was unhappy and didn’t want her to regret this decision for the rest of her life. When she reaches the outside of the church lo and behold Griffin keeps his promise as the getaway driver and this is how the adventure begins.

Rather than go back and face the music Griffin and Piper spend the next two weeks on a road trip. It was on this road trip that Piper began to get her spark back and Griffin was starting to see his girl shine through once again. I loved that these two had a connection and while it did develop into something further Griffin was also respectful of Pipers healing process. While he knew that she was his endgame he wanted her to reclaim that part she lost before she made any decisions regarding her love life.

I honestly loved Griffin and Pipers journey, and I know it’s only book two of the series but it is definitely my favourite so far.

I cannot wait for where the author will go next in the series. Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭

[Leah Fairhurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I love about Laura Ashley Gallagher’s books is her ability to blend real life issues and challenges with a fun, flirty romance. Her stories feel relatable and authentic, making it easy to connect with the characters and their journeys.

The Wrong Exit Strategy follows Piper and Griffin in a brother’s best friend romance that is also a story about healing, self-discovery and learning to love yourself again after being in a controlling relationship.

Laura handles Piper’s journey beautifully, showing her gradual process of rebuilding her confidence, reclaiming her independence, self love and opening herself up to being loved the way she deserves.

Griffin was exactly what Piper needed. He immediately noticed that she wasn’t the same girl he had grown up with and understood that she needed time, patience and support. I loved that he never pressured her into anything. He gave her the time and space she needed to heal, even in the smallest ways. His actions consistently demonstrated his love and care for Piper, making their relationship feel genuine.

I think the slow burn and time apart was perfect for their story. It added authenticity and allowed their connection to develop naturally. I really enjoyed seeing their feelings develop from friends to lovers.

Piper and Griffin had great chemistry with the spicy scenes having meaning and purpose. This strengthened their romantic connection but also helped Piper’s healing journey, creating a deeper bond between them.

This story highlights how easy it can be to lose yourself, your passions and your dreams in a relationship with someone who claims to love you. But more importantly, it shows that with the right support system and self-love, those pieces of yourself can be rebuilt. Its never too late.

While the book tackles some difficult subjects, Laura also balances the heavier moments with plenty of humour and lightheartedness.

One of my favourite scenes was the silent disco, specifically when Piper started shouting about Griffin’s hip action. It had me laughing out loud.

I really enjoyed The Wrong Exit Strategy and would recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted romance that also explores deeper emotional themes.

Thank you to Laura Ashley Gallagher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kerry Bentley · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The things that break and get back up
-are the ones worth holding onto."

What more could you want than a run away bride who runs right into her brothers best friends get away car This book has all the tropes, perfectly executed.

🚗Road trip
🚗Brothers best friend
🚗Friends to lovers
🚗Slow burn
🚗Forced proximity

As normal @authorlauraashleygallagher tackles some really heavy topics with the sensitivity they deserve without making the book feel too dark. If you love your romances on the spicy side this book is perfect for you, I'm already looking forward to the 3rd book in this series.

"Hunger floods through me so quickly that my knees almost buckle. She makes a sound, and it stirs something primal from the depths of my spine. My hands find her waist, then her hips, then her back, pulling her in close. Too close and not close enough."

📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖

Piper Callahan is a “good girl.” A world-class violinist, she’s spent her life smoothing over the cracks in her family and, more recently, molding herself into the perfect accessory for her controlling fiancé. But on the eve of her wedding, her unwavering composure begins to crumble. Facing a future that feels more like a prison sentence than a partnership, Piper makes a choice that no one expected: she runs.

Waiting at the bottom of the church steps is Griffin Hayes—her brother’s best friend and the man who has been her self-appointed protector since they were children. Griffin is a man of logic and steel, an engineer who likes things that make sense. He knows Piper is making a mess, but he also knows she’s finally breathing.

As they trade the wedding aisle for the open road of the California coast, Piper must confront the years she spent shrinking herself to fit someone else's mold. Between cheap motels, roadside diners, and the quiet intimacy of Griffin’s black Camaro, the lines between old friends and something more begin to blur.

But the road eventually ends, and the life Piper left behind is waiting for her back home. Now, she must decide if she has the courage to build a life on her own terms, and if the man who helped her escape is the one she wants to stay for.

[Karo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, omg my heart 😭 I’m so grateful I discovered this author last year. She just hits all the right spots, making me sob and laugh through every book I’ve read by her so far. This one is no exception. 

Piper, an extremely talented violinist, spent three years losing herself and being muting to fit into her fiancé’s perfect life.
On her wedding day, she bolts out of the church. Waiting outside is Griffin, who drives the getaway car. A two week long, unforgettable road trip begins. 

This book is about healing from an emotionally abusive partner (and oh boy, do I hate that man), and figuring out who you used to be and who you can be, when you’re not being controlled and manipulated.
Piper’s journey was so emotional. In the first few chapters, I felt like I couldn’t breathe, I felt the full weight of that emotionally abusive relationship. LAG does this every time, make me feel all the feels. 

As the road trip progresses Piper begins her healing journey. She realizes that the constant feeling of being 'too much' had made her shrink into a shadow of herself. 
I cried so many times, mostly because I was so moved to see Piper trying to find herself again.
There was so much emotional depth in this book. 

Griffin, her brother’s best friend, a little older, part of Piper’s family for over 10 years, is an engineer and a nerd with a bad-boy look. The man that you are, Griffin - omg! Another swoon-worthy man written by a woman.
The way he desperately wanted Piper to find herself again, how he helped and prioritized her on this journey, and the emotional safety he provided, it was all just so beautiful. And what a yearner he is! Also the open-door spice was the perfect add on to this story and Piper's growth.

What I love most about LAG’s books is how she handles very emotional, difficult, and traumatic topics, yet balances them with exquisite humor in all of her books. You can't help but laugh out loud. The combination of sobbing on one page and laughing on the next is my absolute favorite.

Last but not least, I have to mention, Gerald, IYKYK. I loved his emotional support. You’ll know when you get there lol.
And there is basically a love letter to Fleetwood Mac in this book, which made me so emotional and happy, since they're one of my favorite bands ever. 

This is the 5th book I’ve read by the author, at this point it’s fair to say I’m a huge fan of her books and her writing. Her stories are exactly what my romance reader heart loves: emotional devastation, a healing journey, great humor, and a beautiful HEA that heals me all over again.
 
I'll always recommend her books to romance lovers.

What to expect:
• interconnected standalone, book 2 of the Apparently It's Love series (read book 1 to get to know Piper's older sister and her neighbour)
• 1st person dual POV
• roadtrip romance
• nerd engineer who looks like a bad boy x violinist who’s a runaway bride
• golden retriever, caretaking MMC
• FMC on her healing journey
• brother's best friend
• age gap
• close proximity
• one bed and one tent
• slow burn

[Robynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wrong Exit Strategy was a book that made me feel at home almost immediately. From the first chapters, I connected with the characters and settled comfortably into Laura Ashley Gallagher���s writing style. There was a familiarity to the storytelling that made it easy to become invested in Piper and Griffin’s journey.

One thing I particularly appreciated was the trigger warning provided before the story began. It felt thoughtful and respectful to readers, allowing them to enter the book prepared for potentially difficult topics.

Despite the emotional weight of Piper’s situation, the book is filled with wit and humour. Both Piper and Griffin have a natural sense of humour that shines through even during difficult moments, creating a balance that keeps the story engaging without diminishing its emotional impact.

What stood out most to me was the relationship between Piper and Griffin. Their connection develops in a genuine and believable way, built on trust, understanding, and shared experiences. Nothing about their romance felt rushed or forced. Watching their relationship unfold was one of the strongest aspects of the novel.

I also loved the penguin, who quietly becomes an unofficial emotional support animal throughout the story. It serves as a charming observer of the events around it and adds warmth, comfort, and a touch of humour at exactly the right moments.

Another strength of the novel is how both Piper’s and Griffin’s families are woven naturally into the narrative. The family dynamics feel authentic and meaningful without ever feeling forced or existing solely to move the plot forward. Instead, they help enrich the characters and deepen the emotional stakes of the story.

Overall, The Wrong Exit Strategy delivers a heartfelt romance with authentic character development, strong family relationships, emotional depth, and plenty of humour. It is a story about finding yourself, trusting others, and discovering that sometimes the wrong exit can lead you exactly where you need to be. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

[thenerdy_dreamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Laura Ashley Gallagher for a free earc of The Wrong Exit Strategy

It’s a week in February. I had read a Gallagher romance previously, and had really enjoyed it, and I was in the mood for romance. I then read another. And another. and another. I read 3 in 3 days. I was obsessed. So when I got the opportunity to read an earc version I said yes please and thank you.

And these two. My heart. I was instantly endeared to Piper, having related to the idea of needing to be perfect, and losing your spark to fit in with someone else’s ideas. She was chaos in the best way possible when she was allowed to be.

And Griff just made me happy. A man who sits back and lets her just exist, and takes notice of the things she loves. And is hot. Obviously.

One of my other favourite things about this book was the theme of music that ran throughout. From the uptight violin practise to the very chaotic energy of the festival to the ending of the traditional music in a pub, played to a couple hundred people. Music is a happy place for so many people, me included, and it was lovely to read about Piper rediscovering that love that she had with her music.

‘I want to calculate the tension in her shoulders and find a way to redistribute the weight.’

‘People who don’t know her think she’s quiet. They mistake her stillness for shyness, or her pauses for a lack of thought.’

‘If you’ve earned the version of her that exists under the composure, she’s got plenty to say. She just waits until the words actually mean something.’

‘He doesn’t say, It’s okay. He doesn’t say, You’ll be fine. He doesn’t say anything. He just stays. And that, it turns out, is the only thing I needed anyone to do.’

‘The fact that her first instinct, when offered exactly what she wants, is to check if she’s too much to take. Her default setting is: I don’t want to be a burden.’

Go read any of her books.

Overall rating: 4.5

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Review.

“You are a fucking force in this world. Don’t ever let anyone take that away from you again.”

Some books hit you right in the feels and reading Piper’s story is one of those emotional reads that hits hard, especially as a women who knows what it’s like to loose themselves inside of a relationship.

A runaway bride and her brother’s best friend take an impromptu two week road trip to escape reality, after Piper Leaves her gaslighting Fiancé at the alter and Griffin her brother’s best friend is driving the getaway car.

What you get:

🐧 Brother’s best friend
🐧 Road Trip Romance
🐧 Protective MMC
🐧 Emotional Healing
🐧 Friends to Lovers
🐧 Close Proximity

I love that this isn’t a typical brother’s best friend storyline where the main characters have secretly pinned for each other for years. The relationship is built on mutual respect and an emotional connection that is discovered after from spending time together in close proximity. Knowing each other for practically their whole lives is just icing on the cake.

My heart ached for Piper and her realization of how she slowly lost who she was without even noticing until it was almost too late. Watching her emotional healing journey and remembering who she once was and finding love and joy again in her world was beautiful to read.

Griffen a structural Engineer allows Piper the space needed to breath while being there and keeping her standing up straight to she doesn’t fall. He is protective, patient, understanding and most importantly lets her be herself.

“Yeah, There she is….”

Laura has away of approaching heavy topics with dignity and respect without making her stories dark. Adding in the perfect amount of humour to lighten the mood.

“You’re a territorial little thing, aren’t you?” She looks up at me with red-rimmed eyes and dark lashes. “Careful, I’ll start peeing on you.”

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2 🌶️🌶️

[Brooke (The_Brookeshelf_) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laura Ashley Gallagher never fails to write some of my favorite romcoms. The Wrong Exit Strategy is book two of the Apparently It’s Love series, following little sister Piper who is on her own journey after we already fell in love with her big sister, Madison, is book one.

Piper Callahan is finally taking her life back into her own hands after her fiancé has been forcing her to live a life to fit his needs rather than being her true, authentic self. When her brother’s childhood best friend, Griffin, offers her an out of her wedding, the two venture off on a two week road trip and Piper finally starts to get her sparkle back.

This book had numerous moments I was laughing out loud. Watching the older and more confident Griffin, and the naive and vulnerable Piper trying to come together and share space lead to some hilarious moments. But what was so endearing was how Griffin was so consistent in how he showed up for Piper from the very start. Throughout their trip, he wanted to make sure that she learned that her uniqueness is what makes her special, that she is not a burden, and that her needs deserve to be prioritized. Griffin is a protective, possessive cinnamon-roll that you can’t help but fall in love with.

Piper’s growth throughout this book was everything! She took the time and space she needed to find true healing, but was also willing to be vulnerable with Griffin in order to process all she’s been through. She starts to explore her true self, that’s been hidden for far too long, and gains so much strength throughout their roadtrip.

Thank you to Laura Ashley Gallagher for this eARC. All opinions are my own.

Tropes:
👰🏻‍♀️Brothers best friend
👰🏻‍♀️Runaway bride
👰🏻‍♀️Protective & possessive MMC
👰🏻‍♀️Road trip romance

[Bevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

CW: toxic ex, spice, referenced mental health struggles

Thank you to the author for the ARC! “The Wrong Exit Strategy” is available now!

At this point I feel like you should already know that I loved it.

Piper Callahan was set to marry the perfect man…until she fled her own wedding with her brother’s best friend as her getaway driver.

You know what, yall deserve the original notes I wrote about this one:

Read it in two days; was sobbing by chapter 5. Spent 75% of the book alternating between laughing hysterically and desperately searching for a tissue. My contacts will never recover.

(My contacts, in fact, did *not* recover and had to be replaced.)

Do you know why I cried this time? Because Piper’s story is one so many of us know. This is a woman with so many talents and abilities, and she’s spent so much of her life learning to shrink herself to fit into the leftover spaces. She grows up in a loving, chaotic house with a parent struggling to survive a mental illness, and she makes herself undemanding. She finds herself engaged to a man who demands she fit his mold and she does it because that’s what you do for people you love, right?

And then the rest of her story is her finding herself again and seeing herself through Griffin’s eyes and learning that it is okay to take up space in this world; that the people who truly love you want you to take that space. So, yeah, catch me boohooing over that dynamic for the rest of eternity.

Oh but the banter?! The absolutely immaculate back and forth? The sass?! It made every other emotionally devastating bit worth it because I was *howling.* The balance is perfection, and the ending is a delight.

A++ work yet again; go read every book this author has ever written.

[Swiftiequeen420 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura never disappoints every single book I have read of hers is SO good and always has such great representation and deeper meaning.🥹🥹😍😍😭😭 This latest book is no different. This book follows Madison's younger sister Piper who is a very talented violinist and is about to get married to Ezra who she has been with for 3 years. On the day of the rehearsal dinner her brother's childhood best friend Griffin shows up after having been gone for years building a life for himself. Griffin catches Piper steeling herself to enjoy her rehearsal dinner and he immediately sees and notices the subtle shifts in her and in the atmosphere. The day of the wedding Piper bolts and flees after realizing if she goes through with this wedding she won't be herself and she will become smaller and smaller to please Ezra. Griffin is right outside in his car when Piper flees and together they drive the California coast for two weeks while Piper slowly and quietly finds herself and her voice again. 🥹🥹😍😍😍 Piper and Griffin hook up and start falling hard in those 2 weeks but Piper has just left a toxic 3 year relationship so she definitely isn't trying to jump into anything. That is one thing I truly loved from this story is that Piper told Griffin she needed time for herself and he said I will be waiting and he did he waited for her. He made it his mission to make sure she found herself and her love of music again. This was such a beautiful story! The spice was fantastic as well we got a hot rain scene and a really hot mirror scene 😍😍🥵🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥 Go read this book!

[jenswhitenoise · Rating 5 out of 5]

"She's beautiful in the way things are when they are exactly what they are and nothing else."

Piper & Griffin. Brother's best friend goes to check on things outside the church when her brother wonders if there is something going on. He goes outside, sees her entering the church, but instead of going back in after her, something says, why don't you just hang out here. This sets the scene for our runaway bride. And when I started reading the book, I thought, why in the world would she be running? And then I kept reading which led to exclaiming out loud - girl, get outta there!

Brother's best friend seemed like Piper's best friend to be honest. And what a friend to have. If my best friend did such a thing for my sibling I don't know that I could ever repay that or give enough thanks to them. Griffin is an amazing guy and exactly who Piper needed. Piper is a wildly talented and kind person but she's also funny and whimsical and perfect. I love these two!

Laura Ashley Gallagher is definitely a romcom queen! Her characters are likable, relatable, and funny. The situations her characters end up in - family, relationships, friendships, workplace issues - are all so realistic that it's easy to get lost in the books and feel like you're a part of it. In this book, I totally felt like I was along for the ride and was participating. Her books are full of amazing dialogue and are easy to read. I'm definitely a forever fan.

what to expect:
*brother's best friend
*runaway bride
*mental health rep (mother)
*road trip
*froced proximity
*banter

"I'm here. I'm proud. I'm yours."

*I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into The Wrong Exit Strategy expecting a chaotic runaway-bride escape, but Laura Ashley Gallagher completely blew me away with the incredible emotional depth she packed into this road trip!

Piper is a world-class violinist who has spent many years quietly turning down her own volume to fit into a controlling relationship. The raw realism of her choosing herself and bolting mid-aisle on her wedding day had me holding my breath. Her journey down the California coast is not a quick fix; it is an authentic, beautifully paced rediscovery of who she is when she is finally allowed to accept space.

And Griffin… This man is elite book boyfriend material. He is a structural engineer, a man of logic and steel who looks like a bad boy but provides the ultimate emotional safety. He does not try to "fix" Piper; he simply creates a safe harbor where she can breathe, letting her set the pace while fiercely protecting her.

Their lifelong history makes this slow-burn chemistry run incredibly deep, and the payoff… is spectacular. Laura masterfully balances the heavy reality of identity loss with laugh-out-loud humor, chaotic festival shenanigans, and a certain crooked-eyed stuffed penguin who completely stole the show.

An empowering, 5-star read that proves sometimes taking the wrong exit leads you exactly where you need to be!

The Wrong Exit Strategy is officially out today. Make sure to add this to your TBR!

*** A huge thank you to Laura Ashley Gallagher for providing me with my ARC! 🩵 All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own. ***

[b cozy book lounge · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and heartwarming read. It had the perfect balance of emotional moments and laugh-out-loud humor that kept me smiling throughout the story.

The book opens with Piper standing in front of the mirror on her wedding day and realizing she doesn't recognize the person staring back at her. Instead of going through with a life that no longer feels like her own, she does something incredibly brave, she runs. Straight into Griffin's car.

What follows is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and learning who she truly is outside of everyone else's expectations. I loved watching Piper slowly find herself again as she and Griffin traveled from place to place. Their adventures weren't just about seeing new locations; they were about Piper rediscovering her confidence, her voice, and what she wanted from life.

Griffin was exactly what Piper needed. He didn't try to fix her problems or tell her what to do. Instead, he listened, supported her, and helped quiet the constant noise in her mind. His patience and understanding made their connection feel genuine and believable.

The banter and hilarious situations they found themselves in along the way made their journey even more enjoyable.

And then there's Gerald. He brought so much charm to every scene involving him.

A sweet, funny, and heartfelt romance filled with growth, adventure, and plenty of moments that will leave you smiling.

[Virginie · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 The Wrong Exit Strategy – Laura Ashley Gallagher
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)

EN
Once again, Laura Ashley Gallagher delivered an excellent story. Piper’s journey was incredibly moving, and I think a lot of people will see parts of themselves in her experience.

Healing after you’ve spent years making yourself smaller to fit into a version of yourself that someone else created isn’t easy. Watching Piper learn to take up space again, reclaim her voice, and rediscover who she is was both powerful and emotional.

And Griffin? He was exactly what she needed…supportive, patient, and there for her every step of the way. I absolutely loved their love story and the way they helped each other grow.

Thank you to the author for the ARC copy.

FR
Encore une fois, Laura Ashley Gallagher a livré une excellente histoire. Le parcours de Piper est poignant, et je crois que beaucoup de personnes pourront se reconnaître dans son cheminement.

La guérison après s’être « rétrécie » pour entrer dans le moule que quelqu’un d’autre a dessiné pour nous n’est jamais simple. Voir Piper réapprendre à prendre sa place, à retrouver sa voix et à redécouvrir qui elle est m’a beaucoup touchée.

Et Griffin… il est exactement ce dont elle avait besoin. Présent, patient et toujours là pour la soutenir à travers ce processus. J’ai adoré leur histoire d’amour et la façon dont ils s’aident mutuellement à grandir.

Merci à l’auteure pour la copie ARC.

[Jessica’s Book Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ahhhh! Another amazing story from Laura Ashley Gallagher. She can honestly write no wrong in my eyes. She is my go to for romcoms that always hit deep! We get these hilarious stories that are filled with depth and all the emotions, and I just can't get enough!

What I Loved
Piper and Griffin are such real characters. This is another one of the things I love about all LAG's books. I find it so easy to connect on some level with all her characters. Piper's loss of self within her previous relationship is something that I think many of us struggle with at some point in our lives.
The Plot Line. The way the story was built up was done perfectly in my mind. I loved the way she built up Piper and Griffin's world at the start of the story. We get a glimpse into the past right at the start. Nothing drawn out, just these brief scenes that set the stage for Griff's role in their life and the connection that has always been there. Then we continue on in the future without needing to jump back and forth.
Family So much love in Piper's family, despite (or maybe because of) all they have been through.
Gerald Loved all the characters, but let's be real. The real MVP of this story is Gerald.

My main take away, read The Wrong Exit Strategy. Then, if this is your first Laura Ashley Gallagher, go back and read alllll the rest of her books.

[Santhe Titheradge · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hook:
Piper and Griffin have been in each other’s lives for years. He’s her brother’s best friend, the person who knows her better than anyone else, so when she can’t go through with her wedding, he’s the one waiting in the getaway car. What follows is a road trip across California where old feelings begin to shift, walls come down, and the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore.

My Thoughts:
This was adorable, spicy, and incredibly sweet. I hadn’t read anything by Laura Ashley Gallagher before, but I absolutely loved this. The first half of the novel explores coercive control and the impact it can have on someone’s sense of self, and Gallagher handles these themes with a lot of care and authenticity. Watching Piper slowly rediscover who she is, with Griffin constantly reminding her of her worth, was one of my favourite parts of the story.

The second half leans more into the tension, chemistry, and romance between Piper and Griffin, which balanced the heavier themes really well. Their relationship felt natural, heartfelt, and full of that friends-to-lovers energy that just works. I genuinely enjoyed every moment of this novel. The dual POV was also a huge strength because it gave so much insight into both characters and made their connection even more compelling.

[kingdoms.of.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meet your new best book boyfriend.

Piper - A world-class violinist who is technically precise and emotionally unguarded. Her fiancé continually made her feel like a mistake and she became small and lost her identity to fit into his life. Will she find who she was truly meant to be?

Griffin - A nerdy engineer, a self-appointed protector, a getaway driver. Will he find love?

Ezra - The fiancee. Who likes him?

Gerald - Best book sidekick

A fugitive bride on a road trip with her brother's best friend. This book makes you laugh, cry, and feel hopeful. This is an engaging, entertaining and captivating read. I fell in love with all the characters (except the fiancé - IYKYK). I enjoyed watching Piper come alive and begin to shine.

This book is so bingeable!! It is a giggly good time.

Favorite Quotes

"Let's see where else we can put this glitter."

"She turns back to the psychic. "I licked it," she says calmly. So It's mine."

"I spent years becoming someone I didn't recognize when I looked in the mirror."

"When I find her, you're the first person I'm going to call."

"You deserve someone who is whole. You deserve more of me than I have right now."

"Say the big thing."

[BecsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Thank you to Laura Ashley Gallagher for the ARC of The Wrong Exit Strategy!

Laura has done it again. I swear her books get better every time, and this one completely stole my heart.

✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ Runaway bride
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Road trip romance
✨ Slow-burn tension
✨ He falls first

Piper Callahan is about to marry the man she’s spent years believing was the love of her life—until she finally realizes how much of herself she’s lost trying to fit his expectations. On her wedding day, she chooses herself and takes the ultimate leap of faith.

Enter Griffin Hayes. Her brother’s best friend. Her lifelong crush. The man who promised to be her escape plan if she ever needed one.

What follows is a beautiful, emotional journey of healing, self-discovery, and finding the courage to start over. Piper’s growth throughout this story was incredible to witness, and Griffin set the standard for supportive book boyfriends everywhere. His patience, loyalty, and unwavering belief in Piper had me swooning from start to finish.

The chemistry was perfection, the spice delivered, and the emotional depth made this so much more than just a romance.

Piper and Griffin have my whole heart. ❤️
:::

[Janesse Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've had the privilege of receving this as an arc. I NEVER pass up an opportunity to read one of Laura Ashley Gallagher books. This book is exactly why I don’t miss out on her books. Her writing is smooth and engaging. Makes you never want to put it down. I loved the runaway bride trope that took place. Something that would happen in real life and does happen at times.

The FMC, Piper, is so self conscious about herself. She started stripping away part of herself because of her fiance. Something that no lady should go through. Always being told you are not correct, that does not look good, we can’t do that, makes a lady this way. She is on a mission to rebuild herself. Though she did not expect that person to be her getaway driver.

Now the MMC, Griffin seems dreamy. I mean who does not love a nerdy engineer. He is actually Pipers brother’s best friend. He saved Piper in a time of desperate need. Griffin has patience and determination. He looks after Piper and makes sure she is being cared for through her ruff patch. This is the kind of man anyone would love to have.

You will need to read this wonderful novel if you want to know how they end up. You will not want to miss it. I cannot wait to read all about Rowan’s journey in None of Your Business.