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Where We Belong
An emotional, compelling page-turner from your next romance obsession, Shann McPherson, about the power of friendship and finding love where you least expect it.
When Alice ‘Murph’ Murphy’s beloved mother died, she promised to keep the family bakery in Graceville, Georgia afloat—even if it meant letting her high-school sweetheart, Nash Harris, go. For years, Murph has been biding her time, waiting for Nash to come back for her.
So when he strolls into Piece O’ Cake, Murph’s heart skips a beat—until he hands her an invitation to his wedding… There are painful secrets in both their pasts that only the two of them share, and Murph can’t bear the thought of Nash belonging to someone else.
There’s only one thing Murph can think of to do: fake a relationship with local bar owner and old friend Harley Shaw to remind Nash of what he’s losing, and win him back for good.
Nash is Murph’s best friend, a vivid reminder of her childhood and all the things she’s lost—but the more time Murph and Harley spend together, the more the lines between real and pretend begin to blur. Can Murph choose between the one who got away and the one who never left—and heal her aching heart?
When Alice ‘Murph’ Murphy’s beloved mother died, she promised to keep the family bakery in Graceville, Georgia afloat—even if it meant letting her high-school sweetheart, Nash Harris, go. For years, Murph has been biding her time, waiting for Nash to come back for her.
So when he strolls into Piece O’ Cake, Murph’s heart skips a beat—until he hands her an invitation to his wedding… There are painful secrets in both their pasts that only the two of them share, and Murph can’t bear the thought of Nash belonging to someone else.
There’s only one thing Murph can think of to do: fake a relationship with local bar owner and old friend Harley Shaw to remind Nash of what he’s losing, and win him back for good.
Nash is Murph’s best friend, a vivid reminder of her childhood and all the things she’s lost—but the more time Murph and Harley spend together, the more the lines between real and pretend begin to blur. Can Murph choose between the one who got away and the one who never left—and heal her aching heart?
- GenresRomance
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2020
About the author
Shann McPherson
4 books46 followersWith big dreams of being a published author since she was an eleven-year-old girl writing Beverly Hills 90210 fan fiction before fan fiction was even a thing, Shann McPherson has been writing angsty, contemporary romances for most of her thirty-something years.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she’s not writing Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and cheeky toddler son, drinking wine, and singing completely off-key to One Direction’s entire discography.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she’s not writing Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and cheeky toddler son, drinking wine, and singing completely off-key to One Direction’s entire discography.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 25, 2020
The book was kinda like the movie My Best Friend’s Wedding, it was a rom-com where Alice Murphy wanted Nash back by pretending to be in relationship with their other best friend Harley. Ah, love was so convoluted, so were the games played.
My first book by author Shann McPherson, the story had fun moments along with confusing ones where all of them didn’t know what they were doing. The story told me past of their lives together along with the present moments.
The writing kept to a fast pace and gave a free hand to Alice. The story told to me in her POV, I felt bad for Alice, knowing the love of her life was marrying someone else. But she played mean tricks on the would-be bride. I didn’t understand her reasons. Ah well, she did say she was unleashing her inner psycho.
Overall, love succeeded and things settled down. Alice got a few revelations. Happily Ever After was the theme song which played beautifully in the end. Friendship was the bond which held them together. Overall, a fun read.
Damn, love is so confusing!! And the games people play!!
My first book by author Shann McPherson, the story had fun moments along with confusing ones where all of them didn’t know what they were doing. The story told me past of their lives together along with the present moments.
The writing kept to a fast pace and gave a free hand to Alice. The story told to me in her POV, I felt bad for Alice, knowing the love of her life was marrying someone else. But she played mean tricks on the would-be bride. I didn’t understand her reasons. Ah well, she did say she was unleashing her inner psycho.
Overall, love succeeded and things settled down. Alice got a few revelations. Happily Ever After was the theme song which played beautifully in the end. Friendship was the bond which held them together. Overall, a fun read.
Damn, love is so confusing!! And the games people play!!
February 18, 2020
I had such a blast reading Where We Belong. Literally, I read it cover to cover (well that part is figurative because digital) in an hour and a half right before bed.
The characterization's a bit iffy. Murph goes from being entirely not over Nash and wanting him back to suddenly having the drunken revelation that it's been Harley all along, and that really wasn't particularly believable. HOWEVER, I was totally on board for these love triangle shenanigans. And, in the end, I was pleased with the way McPherson handled Anna's character, because she'd been the generic mean girl love interest until the end.
Not particularly deep but fast and fun, if you're into fake dating and love triangles.
The characterization's a bit iffy. Murph goes from being entirely not over Nash and wanting him back to suddenly having the drunken revelation that it's been Harley all along, and that really wasn't particularly believable. HOWEVER, I was totally on board for these love triangle shenanigans. And, in the end, I was pleased with the way McPherson handled Anna's character, because she'd been the generic mean girl love interest until the end.
Not particularly deep but fast and fun, if you're into fake dating and love triangles.
April 27, 2020
I finished this book almost a week ago and I have started a new book- which I think is going to be really good(by the way)but I tell you I CAN NOT stop thinking of this one. The characters, the story, just the whole story! Is still on my mind. I love love love a story where they have been friends since childhood and throw in a love triangle- - - well be still my heart! I mean come on, what’s better than that?!!?
I always like to put a song or songs to a book- it makes it feel more real to me, like a soundtrack to the characters life and what they are going through and for me the song that perfectly is perfect for this one is- anything but mine by Kenny Chesney. All the feels with this one!
XOXO- C
I always like to put a song or songs to a book- it makes it feel more real to me, like a soundtrack to the characters life and what they are going through and for me the song that perfectly is perfect for this one is- anything but mine by Kenny Chesney. All the feels with this one!
XOXO- C
February 20, 2020
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.
I loved everything about WHERE WE BELONG by Shann McPherson and devoured this captivating romance in one evening without coming up for air.
'It's a truth universally acknowledged that inside every woman is an inner-psycho, just waiting to be unleashed' and Alice Murphy, known as Murph to her two best friends, is living up to this statement. Ever since she was nine it has been Nash, her, and Harley - always there for each other, protecting each other, and being each other's shoulder to lean on. But Alice knew instantly that it was her and Nash who would end up together, living happily ever after. And for a while their childhood friendship grew into love but when tragedy struck and Alice had to return home to take over her mother's bakery, Nash and her broke up, but Alice knew he would come back to her eventually. So when he walks into her shop one day, she knows this is it. But Nash is there to invite her to his wedding in a week and Alice is blindsided. How could he love someone else when she has always been there for him? As Alice goes into crazy mode (flag football and laxatives is all I'm going to say here!), she struggles to let go of her vision of what her future should be and even ropes Harley into pretending to be her boyfriend, even though that is simply laughable. Or is it? Because as Alice starts to see the changes in Nash and herself, she cannot help but notice how handsome and caring Harley has always been, and how he has always been there for her when she needed him. Could she have been looking in the wrong place for love all of this time? And as Nash starts to have doubts about what he is doing, will Alice fall for her first love again or go after the new feelings that are beginning to bud for one of her oldest friends?
I instantly connected with Alice and while I wanted to shake some sense into her on so many occasions, I could relate to her and her dreams that had been taken away from her. Learning about the three main characters and their very special relationship gave me all of the feels, knowing that they were all that each other had through some very harsh times, and I could see why Alice clung on to her relationship with Nash. There are plenty of laughs and drama along the way, and a certain sizzling scene that will have you fanning yourself to take down your temperature, and as I watched Alice figure out her feelings and recognise other peoples, I desperately wanted her to make the right decision for everyone's sake.
WHERE WE BELONG by Shann McPherson is an addictive romance and I cannot wait for more from this very talented author.
I loved everything about WHERE WE BELONG by Shann McPherson and devoured this captivating romance in one evening without coming up for air.
'It's a truth universally acknowledged that inside every woman is an inner-psycho, just waiting to be unleashed' and Alice Murphy, known as Murph to her two best friends, is living up to this statement. Ever since she was nine it has been Nash, her, and Harley - always there for each other, protecting each other, and being each other's shoulder to lean on. But Alice knew instantly that it was her and Nash who would end up together, living happily ever after. And for a while their childhood friendship grew into love but when tragedy struck and Alice had to return home to take over her mother's bakery, Nash and her broke up, but Alice knew he would come back to her eventually. So when he walks into her shop one day, she knows this is it. But Nash is there to invite her to his wedding in a week and Alice is blindsided. How could he love someone else when she has always been there for him? As Alice goes into crazy mode (flag football and laxatives is all I'm going to say here!), she struggles to let go of her vision of what her future should be and even ropes Harley into pretending to be her boyfriend, even though that is simply laughable. Or is it? Because as Alice starts to see the changes in Nash and herself, she cannot help but notice how handsome and caring Harley has always been, and how he has always been there for her when she needed him. Could she have been looking in the wrong place for love all of this time? And as Nash starts to have doubts about what he is doing, will Alice fall for her first love again or go after the new feelings that are beginning to bud for one of her oldest friends?
I instantly connected with Alice and while I wanted to shake some sense into her on so many occasions, I could relate to her and her dreams that had been taken away from her. Learning about the three main characters and their very special relationship gave me all of the feels, knowing that they were all that each other had through some very harsh times, and I could see why Alice clung on to her relationship with Nash. There are plenty of laughs and drama along the way, and a certain sizzling scene that will have you fanning yourself to take down your temperature, and as I watched Alice figure out her feelings and recognise other peoples, I desperately wanted her to make the right decision for everyone's sake.
WHERE WE BELONG by Shann McPherson is an addictive romance and I cannot wait for more from this very talented author.
February 28, 2020
This was a cute, heartwarming story set in a small town in GA. Alice Murphy aka Murph is still hung up on her ex when he waltzes back into town from the big city of NYC to tell her he’s getting married. Murph is a bit insecure about herself (I see myself in her thoughts) and when she finds out that Nash has moved on when she thought he was the love of her life she can’t handle it and does some silly things to try to cancel the wedding. Oh and btw the wedding is in a week. Oh and btw she owns a bakery so Nash asks her to bake the cake for the wedding. You won’t find much controversial situations here but if you are looking for a fun, pretty lighthearted read this is certainly the book for you. I started this book right after I finished a very intense book with an emotional subject matter so this was exactly what I needed! Pick this book up to read about Murph, Nash, Harley, Anna, and all her bitchy, blonde (hey it’s a stereotype but it’s all in good fun!) friends and the shenanigans they get into!
~Alexis💜
~Alexis💜
June 20, 2020
Where We Belong is the first book of Ms McPherson’s that I have read. It looks like this may be only her second book, her first being “Dear Alice.” The storyline of this book is nothing really new. Three kids who have been best friends since the age of nine, two paired off early. The third was never left behind. Well, not physically until the pair goes off to college in NYC. However, tragedy strikes and Murph has to return home. That was five years ago. Nash moved on. Harley and Murph are still best friends living in the town they grew up in. But now, Nash is back in town…to hand Murph an invitation to his wedding at the end of the week. Murph is devastated. Thus begins a plot to get Nash to realize the huge mistake he is about to make. A mistake that may only be in Murph’s mind.
There are many emotions and things revealed throughout the telling of this book. I found Murph to be mostly annoying, immature, and self-centered in a nice way (mostly). I guess I get where she’s coming from. Sorta. Maybe. Kinda. OK, not really. She’s living in the past and refuses to give it up. She refuses to grow up, leave childhood behind, and realize what’s right in front of her face. Nash? He’s just as annoying. The only adult in the room seems to be Harley. The story was interesting enough to keep me reading and there was enough of Harley to keep Nash and Murph neutralized. Honestly, he’s the star of this one!
There are many emotions and things revealed throughout the telling of this book. I found Murph to be mostly annoying, immature, and self-centered in a nice way (mostly). I guess I get where she’s coming from. Sorta. Maybe. Kinda. OK, not really. She’s living in the past and refuses to give it up. She refuses to grow up, leave childhood behind, and realize what’s right in front of her face. Nash? He’s just as annoying. The only adult in the room seems to be Harley. The story was interesting enough to keep me reading and there was enough of Harley to keep Nash and Murph neutralized. Honestly, he’s the star of this one!
August 19, 2021
I’m not against a love triangle, but I found it difficult to feel a true attachment to either hero in this one. Revolving around a trio of friends—Alice, Nash, and Harley—Alice is devastated to discover Nash has plans to marry. In a moment of panic, a fake relationship ensues with Harley, hopeful of winning back the man of her dreams.
With flashbacks of their childhood (TW: child abuse), the chemistry between Nash and Alice was wonderful. But ugh—having him flirt while engaged completely fizzled out any potential love I had for his character. On the other side of the triangle, Harley was a caring, tattooed, burly man who deserved all the love. The history between Harley and Alice wasn’t explored nearly as well for me, though. I’m not convinced of their feelings for each other.
Putting the believability aside, I still enjoyed seeing the drama unfold. With her petty, intrusive ideas, Alice provided some incredibly funny moments. This story flowed really well, too, making it easy to binge. I definitely want to try something else from Shann McPherson!
With flashbacks of their childhood (TW: child abuse), the chemistry between Nash and Alice was wonderful. But ugh—having him flirt while engaged completely fizzled out any potential love I had for his character. On the other side of the triangle, Harley was a caring, tattooed, burly man who deserved all the love. The history between Harley and Alice wasn’t explored nearly as well for me, though. I’m not convinced of their feelings for each other.
Putting the believability aside, I still enjoyed seeing the drama unfold. With her petty, intrusive ideas, Alice provided some incredibly funny moments. This story flowed really well, too, making it easy to binge. I definitely want to try something else from Shann McPherson!
Read
January 31, 2020No dates, no rating — DNF @ 4%
This just read like every work of bad boy fan fiction I read as a teenager. I also spent a long time thinking this was set in the late 40s/early 50s but was cruelly reminded by the existence of Netflix that we were in contemporary America. Fun.
This just read like every work of bad boy fan fiction I read as a teenager. I also spent a long time thinking this was set in the late 40s/early 50s but was cruelly reminded by the existence of Netflix that we were in contemporary America. Fun.
April 29, 2020
Great read. From start to finish I was obsessed with this page turner.
Funny and sad, but so emotionally charged.
For anyone who wants an easy read that makes you feel in every way, this book is a must.
As an avid reader, it’s not always easy to hand on heart recommend a book for all of my friends, but this one will have everyone spellbound!
I can’t wait to see what this author brings out next!
Funny and sad, but so emotionally charged.
For anyone who wants an easy read that makes you feel in every way, this book is a must.
As an avid reader, it’s not always easy to hand on heart recommend a book for all of my friends, but this one will have everyone spellbound!
I can’t wait to see what this author brings out next!
April 10, 2020
*I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
A contemporary that is also a bildungsroman in which I found it impossible not to connect emotionally from page 1.
This book got 4.5 stars from me, which is pretty high.
Page 1 got me into the skin of our main character, Alice Murphy. Chapter 2 had already made me cry twice. 51% of the book meant I was not able to stop at all, despite my continuous tears rolling down my cheeks without previous notice. It was one of these books that has you yelling at her every other page to do or refrain herself from doing something.
You can picture the settings perfectly, thanks to incredible descriptions not only of the places themselves but also of the feelings they produced on the people who lived and visited, their traditions and how they felt live in general.
The characters are so well rounded and real that it is impossible not to clearly imagine them and feel close to them in a way. It has been, in fact, the first book that makes me live the story from the perspective of several characters!
I found, however, a couple of aspects that I personally disliked. The first one was the fact that they all seem alcoholics. None of the main characters -except one- are mature enough to face their issues without a drink (or a couple of them), and get drunk regularly, even if it's morning time.
The second issue I had with the book was the message that one who loves you will necessarily hurt you somehow or that women will play dirty on each other to obtain a man's love.
What did I like the most? That despite being a contemporary romance, it is not at all focused on the romantic side of it, but it shows how different events in life will change you view of things to come and your behavour towards whatever comes your way next; real life issues that affect you and any living person would, in a way, be able to relate to.
This book is, definitely, a must if you like contemporary romance. Highly recommended.
https://thebookdreamersalley.home.blo...
A contemporary that is also a bildungsroman in which I found it impossible not to connect emotionally from page 1.
This book got 4.5 stars from me, which is pretty high.
Page 1 got me into the skin of our main character, Alice Murphy. Chapter 2 had already made me cry twice. 51% of the book meant I was not able to stop at all, despite my continuous tears rolling down my cheeks without previous notice. It was one of these books that has you yelling at her every other page to do or refrain herself from doing something.
You can picture the settings perfectly, thanks to incredible descriptions not only of the places themselves but also of the feelings they produced on the people who lived and visited, their traditions and how they felt live in general.
The characters are so well rounded and real that it is impossible not to clearly imagine them and feel close to them in a way. It has been, in fact, the first book that makes me live the story from the perspective of several characters!
I found, however, a couple of aspects that I personally disliked. The first one was the fact that they all seem alcoholics. None of the main characters -except one- are mature enough to face their issues without a drink (or a couple of them), and get drunk regularly, even if it's morning time.
The second issue I had with the book was the message that one who loves you will necessarily hurt you somehow or that women will play dirty on each other to obtain a man's love.
What did I like the most? That despite being a contemporary romance, it is not at all focused on the romantic side of it, but it shows how different events in life will change you view of things to come and your behavour towards whatever comes your way next; real life issues that affect you and any living person would, in a way, be able to relate to.
This book is, definitely, a must if you like contemporary romance. Highly recommended.
https://thebookdreamersalley.home.blo...
April 29, 2020
Love love love!
This book was hilarious.
This book was heartbreaking.
This book was sexy and swoon-worthy.
So many emotions. So many feels.
Team Harley all the way!
Can’t wait for the movie.
This book was hilarious.
This book was heartbreaking.
This book was sexy and swoon-worthy.
So many emotions. So many feels.
Team Harley all the way!
Can’t wait for the movie.
July 28, 2020
Where we belong is a beautiful novel which richly portraits the aftermath feelings of an intense first love as well as the rough emotions of the components of a love triangle. Miss McPherson's caracteres are real, round and very human.
April 16, 2020
Quick, fun read!
Loved this sweet little romance! It was as advertised, unputdownable! Three best friends, the perfect love triangle, when will they figure out who really loves whom? Couldn't wait to read the next page to see how Murph was going to get herself into and out of the next misunderstanding...but "all's well that ends well!
Loved this sweet little romance! It was as advertised, unputdownable! Three best friends, the perfect love triangle, when will they figure out who really loves whom? Couldn't wait to read the next page to see how Murph was going to get herself into and out of the next misunderstanding...but "all's well that ends well!
February 21, 2020
In her debut novel, Where We Belong, author Shann McPherson weaves a lighthearted romantic tale of friendship, love and second chances.
Set in Graceville, Georgia, the reader is easily drawn into this entertaining story as they follow three best friends as they navigate the trials and tribulations of life and love.
Alice "Murph" Murphy, Nash Harris, and Harley Shaw have been best friends since the age of nine. They've been through thick and thin, but for Murph, Nash has been her everything: first crush, first kiss, first love. As childhood sweethearts, Murph thought that their love would last forever, but life got in the way, and changed everything in their relationship. They went to NYU together, but when Murph got the call that her mom had Stage 4 Breast Cancer, she came home to Graceville to take care of her dying mom, and to run their bakery, Piece O' Cake. When her mom died within six months, Murph took over running the bakery, while her relationship with Nash came to an end because of the long distance between them.
Five years later, Murph's bakery is doing well, and she still holds out hope that she and Nash will find their way back to each other when he finishes medical school. When Nash unexpectedly shows up at the bakery, Murph thought that he came home to her, but alas, he's come to give her an invitation to his wedding, and if that wasn't bad enough, he wants her to make the wedding cake! Shocked and completely heartbroken, Murph is determined to win back his heart at any cost. So with a week to put her plan in motion, Murph fabricates a story that she and Harley are a couple just to make Nash jealous, and engages in an all-out plan that is filled with enough crazy antics that brings out her inner-psycho! So what's a girl to do when she finds herself in a twisted love triangle? Should she give up on her lost love, move forward with her life, and maybe get a chance to realize that true love has been under her nose the whole time?
Where We Belong easily keeps the reader engaged as they follow Murph's story. Told in the first person narrative by Murph, the reader follows along as Murph struggles to accept that Nash has moved on, and slowly comes to realize that the true love of her life has been in her corner the whole time. There was a great mixture of emotion, drama, angst, humor, and crazy antics mixed in this story. The author does a great job of describing the history of the childhood friendships between Murph, Nash, and Harley, especially with the flashbacks to their childhood memories throughout the story. You can't help but feel compassion for Murph as she faces the changes in her relationships with Nash and Harley, finds unexpected love, and discovers herself along the way.
Where We Belong is a heartfelt story that has enough emotional depth, drama, romance, comedy, and witty banter, that makes it a delightfully entertaining debut romantic tale that romance fans will certainly enjoy!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from HarperCollins Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
Set in Graceville, Georgia, the reader is easily drawn into this entertaining story as they follow three best friends as they navigate the trials and tribulations of life and love.
Alice "Murph" Murphy, Nash Harris, and Harley Shaw have been best friends since the age of nine. They've been through thick and thin, but for Murph, Nash has been her everything: first crush, first kiss, first love. As childhood sweethearts, Murph thought that their love would last forever, but life got in the way, and changed everything in their relationship. They went to NYU together, but when Murph got the call that her mom had Stage 4 Breast Cancer, she came home to Graceville to take care of her dying mom, and to run their bakery, Piece O' Cake. When her mom died within six months, Murph took over running the bakery, while her relationship with Nash came to an end because of the long distance between them.
Five years later, Murph's bakery is doing well, and she still holds out hope that she and Nash will find their way back to each other when he finishes medical school. When Nash unexpectedly shows up at the bakery, Murph thought that he came home to her, but alas, he's come to give her an invitation to his wedding, and if that wasn't bad enough, he wants her to make the wedding cake! Shocked and completely heartbroken, Murph is determined to win back his heart at any cost. So with a week to put her plan in motion, Murph fabricates a story that she and Harley are a couple just to make Nash jealous, and engages in an all-out plan that is filled with enough crazy antics that brings out her inner-psycho! So what's a girl to do when she finds herself in a twisted love triangle? Should she give up on her lost love, move forward with her life, and maybe get a chance to realize that true love has been under her nose the whole time?
Where We Belong easily keeps the reader engaged as they follow Murph's story. Told in the first person narrative by Murph, the reader follows along as Murph struggles to accept that Nash has moved on, and slowly comes to realize that the true love of her life has been in her corner the whole time. There was a great mixture of emotion, drama, angst, humor, and crazy antics mixed in this story. The author does a great job of describing the history of the childhood friendships between Murph, Nash, and Harley, especially with the flashbacks to their childhood memories throughout the story. You can't help but feel compassion for Murph as she faces the changes in her relationships with Nash and Harley, finds unexpected love, and discovers herself along the way.
Where We Belong is a heartfelt story that has enough emotional depth, drama, romance, comedy, and witty banter, that makes it a delightfully entertaining debut romantic tale that romance fans will certainly enjoy!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from HarperCollins Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
February 22, 2020
Where We Belong, Shann McPherson
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, General Fiction (adult)
Well, I love these small town America stories. I've no idea – being British – whether there really are towns like this, but I love the idea of everyone having friends, being there for each other. Of course its Always Sunshine and Warmth – and here in UK that's often in short supply, so that's a huge bonus. BBQ in the rain, summer dress for night out ruined by downpour, hair carefully coiffed and makeup done, then wrap up in warm hat that ruins the effect – that's UK summers. I love the fake GF/BF trope too.
Poor Murph, all set for a proposal from long time boyfriend, on and off romance, and then...he hands her an invite to his wedding. Oh I could feel her heart breaking. When we learned more about their past my heart was sad for her over again, and I wondered why she saw Nash as her HEA, when to me he was selfish and unreliable.
Still, here he is with his new love, and she wants to put a brave face on and in the momentary instinct claims Harley is hers. Poor Harley – give the guy credit, he goes along with it, but as we learn he's been picking her up for years, What's one more time.
And it could have been a fun read for me if Murph hadn't been so unpleasant to Anna. Its not her fault Nash loves her, and I really didn't like Murph's actions. Acting on the spur of the moment is one thing, but deliberate actions? Nope. Not in my playbook.
It may not bother you and you may laugh at parts, I did have a silent snigger at one even as I was annoyed at it....hey- I'm human, it set a funny visual. And I want to know why Harley writes his name on his clothes?
Overall it ends well, I'm not entirely sure I was convinced by it, but its a fun, easy read.
Stars: Three, I enjoyed parts, but a) didn't understand why Murph was so set on Nash and b) didn't like some of her actions.
Arc via Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, General Fiction (adult)
Well, I love these small town America stories. I've no idea – being British – whether there really are towns like this, but I love the idea of everyone having friends, being there for each other. Of course its Always Sunshine and Warmth – and here in UK that's often in short supply, so that's a huge bonus. BBQ in the rain, summer dress for night out ruined by downpour, hair carefully coiffed and makeup done, then wrap up in warm hat that ruins the effect – that's UK summers. I love the fake GF/BF trope too.
Poor Murph, all set for a proposal from long time boyfriend, on and off romance, and then...he hands her an invite to his wedding. Oh I could feel her heart breaking. When we learned more about their past my heart was sad for her over again, and I wondered why she saw Nash as her HEA, when to me he was selfish and unreliable.
Still, here he is with his new love, and she wants to put a brave face on and in the momentary instinct claims Harley is hers. Poor Harley – give the guy credit, he goes along with it, but as we learn he's been picking her up for years, What's one more time.
And it could have been a fun read for me if Murph hadn't been so unpleasant to Anna. Its not her fault Nash loves her, and I really didn't like Murph's actions. Acting on the spur of the moment is one thing, but deliberate actions? Nope. Not in my playbook.
It may not bother you and you may laugh at parts, I did have a silent snigger at one even as I was annoyed at it....hey- I'm human, it set a funny visual. And I want to know why Harley writes his name on his clothes?
Overall it ends well, I'm not entirely sure I was convinced by it, but its a fun, easy read.
Stars: Three, I enjoyed parts, but a) didn't understand why Murph was so set on Nash and b) didn't like some of her actions.
Arc via Netgalley and publishers
March 20, 2020
Alice ‘Murph’ and Harley are in a fake relationship that she set up in a knee-jerk reaction to finding out her ex is getting married. She always thought they would get back together and now there is no chance. But what starts as a fake relationship seems to be turning all to real, but will either of them take a chance and admit how they really feel?
A great read.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review
A great read.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review
February 18, 2020
I loved this book, it was so sweet and cute it brought so many smiles and laughs. Murph is a small town girl working at her deceased mothers cake shop in a small town, trying to carry on her legacy. The book starts with Nash, her first everything and former boyfriend coming back to town and announcing his wedding to Anna, his new girlfriend. Murph is shocked and upset, and in an effort to get a reaction from Nash, claims she’s been dating Harley, the last person in their threesome friendship. Harley decides to go along with it and what results is a hilarious and heartfelt story of love, loss, friendship, and discovering ones true self.
This book kept me reading, it was super sweet and light and I was constantly rooting for the characters. My only wish was that it was longer and didn’t jump into the story so suddenly, but gave more background on Harley and Murph from the beginning. I loved the writing and how it kept me in suspense. The book touched on really profound realizations within oneself, but also seemed to rush the story a long a tad. The friendships were deep, as were the feelings. I love how everything came together at the end. Must read for romantic fiction fans who love a touch of comedy and drama.
Thank you to digital HQ Digital and NetGalley for this free preview in exchange for an honest review.
This book kept me reading, it was super sweet and light and I was constantly rooting for the characters. My only wish was that it was longer and didn’t jump into the story so suddenly, but gave more background on Harley and Murph from the beginning. I loved the writing and how it kept me in suspense. The book touched on really profound realizations within oneself, but also seemed to rush the story a long a tad. The friendships were deep, as were the feelings. I love how everything came together at the end. Must read for romantic fiction fans who love a touch of comedy and drama.
Thank you to digital HQ Digital and NetGalley for this free preview in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2020
This was a cute, heartwarming story set in a small town in GA. Alice Murphy aka Murph is still hung up on her ex when he waltzes back into town from the big city of NYC to tell her he’s getting married. Murph is a bit insecure about herself (I see myself in her thoughts) and when she finds out that Nash has moved on when she thought he was the love of her life she can’t handle it and does some silly things to try to cancel the wedding. Oh and btw the wedding is in a week. Oh and btw she owns a bakery so Nash asks her to bake the cake for the wedding. You won’t find much controversial situations here but if you are looking for a fun, pretty lighthearted read this is certainly the book for you. I started this book right after I finished a very intense book with an emotional subject matter so this was exactly what I needed! Pick this book up to read about Murph, Nash, Harley, Anna, and all her bitchy, blonde (hey it’s a stereotype but it’s all in good fun!) friends and the shenanigans they get into!
February 27, 2020
Alice is on cloud nine to see her love Nash after a long time in her bakery but soon all excitement goes down the drain when he intimates her about his wedding.To add on injury, his would be bride is everything that Alice is not.But instead of giving up, she fakes a relationship with handsome hunk Harley to make Nash jealous.But with time, many secrets spill out of the closet, the fine line seperating love and friendship threatens to blur dangerously.
The narration is engaging since the very first chapter.Written in a lucid language, the story strikes a chord with the readers beautifully exploring the themes of friendship, love, passion, jealousy, faith and responsibility.It moves at a fast pace.Characters are well drawn and relatable.Told from the perspective of Alice, a number of incidents made her realise Where She truly belongs.The book ends on a happy note.
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It will make a Lovely light read, recommended for all fiction loves especially romance lovers.
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February 22, 2020
https://thecaffeinatedreader.com/2020...
A romcom of basically Sweet Home Alabama meets My Best Friend's Wedding and I LOVED it. Now, you know what, if you're going to get into the details, I wouldn't say the writing style was a literary masterpiece but it was fun and funny, and I think just the perfect sort of book to break up longer heavier reads. I don't usually read romance but I'm really glad I read this one, Harley, Nash, and Murph are really great characters, and I like that Murph is aware of making the wrong decisions even as she makes them, haha, made her more relatable in my opinion. I would definitely recommend this to any romance/romcom fans, 3.5 out of 5 for me!
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher HQ for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
A romcom of basically Sweet Home Alabama meets My Best Friend's Wedding and I LOVED it. Now, you know what, if you're going to get into the details, I wouldn't say the writing style was a literary masterpiece but it was fun and funny, and I think just the perfect sort of book to break up longer heavier reads. I don't usually read romance but I'm really glad I read this one, Harley, Nash, and Murph are really great characters, and I like that Murph is aware of making the wrong decisions even as she makes them, haha, made her more relatable in my opinion. I would definitely recommend this to any romance/romcom fans, 3.5 out of 5 for me!
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher HQ for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 1, 2020
Loved the character of Murph - she's down to earth and instantly relatable. Her love interests - Nash and Harley are really well-portrayed and realistic, particularly Nash. I really got a sense of how Nash had changed over the years and the author achieved this in a way that was subtle but powerful. Great read - funny, warm, heartfelt and romantic. Looking forward to Shann's next book.
February 25, 2020
One of the most captivating books I have read, in a very long time.
This book transports you, to be right there with Murph, and you feel the story, as it unfolds.
This book is written in a way that makes you feel in ways that books should make you feel.
Not only do you feel the emotions, you also feel as though you are transported, sitting, watching the characters in front of you.
Be prepared to laugh one minute and cry the next.
This book is a page turner, captivating and incredibly moving.
Highly recommend to all readers.
This book transports you, to be right there with Murph, and you feel the story, as it unfolds.
This book is written in a way that makes you feel in ways that books should make you feel.
Not only do you feel the emotions, you also feel as though you are transported, sitting, watching the characters in front of you.
Be prepared to laugh one minute and cry the next.
This book is a page turner, captivating and incredibly moving.
Highly recommend to all readers.
February 23, 2020
Think my best friends wedding but better!
I was sucked in from the first chapter. I laughed, cried and held my breath alot reading this book.
I'm team Harley all the way!
I was sucked in from the first chapter. I laughed, cried and held my breath alot reading this book.
I'm team Harley all the way!
February 24, 2020
Alice is ecstatic to see her first love Nash right there in front of her. Has he finally realised what he left behind? Err, nope. He is there to invite her to his wedding. He has found his Mrs Right and wants Alice to be a part of the celebrations.
She isn't going to just accept the new status quo and starts meddling in the happiness of the wedded couple to be. Her 'pranks' make her look like a tiny psycho and often end up punishing the wrong person, especially when she spontaneously decides to cast Harley in the role of her boyfriend. It creates friction between the three tight friends.
To be completely frank Alice doesn't always come off in a great way. It's sometimes hard to feel empathy for someone who whines about not succeeding in life the way they wanted to because their mother had the audacity to become terminally ill. How dare she stop Alice from being with her one true love. Yeh, that didn't always gel well for me.
That vibe comes and goes as Alice aka Murph is caught between her first love and the man who always had her back. She has to leave the past behind and figure out which one is her future - if either of the two fits that description at all.
It's a turbulent romcom with a focus on loyalty and friendship. This very much has the feel of the popular My Best Friend's Wedding. McPherson creates the same kind of emotional turbulence, which is combined with humour and compelling characters. It's a feel good read where the reader is routing for the main character, even when the character has completely given up.
*I received a courtesy copy*
She isn't going to just accept the new status quo and starts meddling in the happiness of the wedded couple to be. Her 'pranks' make her look like a tiny psycho and often end up punishing the wrong person, especially when she spontaneously decides to cast Harley in the role of her boyfriend. It creates friction between the three tight friends.
To be completely frank Alice doesn't always come off in a great way. It's sometimes hard to feel empathy for someone who whines about not succeeding in life the way they wanted to because their mother had the audacity to become terminally ill. How dare she stop Alice from being with her one true love. Yeh, that didn't always gel well for me.
That vibe comes and goes as Alice aka Murph is caught between her first love and the man who always had her back. She has to leave the past behind and figure out which one is her future - if either of the two fits that description at all.
It's a turbulent romcom with a focus on loyalty and friendship. This very much has the feel of the popular My Best Friend's Wedding. McPherson creates the same kind of emotional turbulence, which is combined with humour and compelling characters. It's a feel good read where the reader is routing for the main character, even when the character has completely given up.
*I received a courtesy copy*
March 5, 2020
When I read the book description of ‘Where We Belong’ on Netgalley a little while back, I was immediately fascinated by this read. So I requested it and was super excited when I got approved to read it. Not only did this book sound interesting, did you see that cover? I loved it! And as soon as I could I started reading.
In ‘Where We Belong’ we meet Alice ‘Murph’ Murphy. When Murph found out her mom was dying, she left everything behind to stay with her and to help out in her family’s bakery. After her mom died, she stayed, determined to make the bakery great again. But for months all she wanted was for her true love ‘Nash’ to come home and tell her he was ready to spend the rest of his life with her. What she didn’t expect was him to come by and give her his wedding invitation and marry someone else. Determined to make him change his mind, she decides to try and make him jealous by telling him she has been in a relationship with their other best friend Harley.
This book definitely didn’t have a slow start. Right after starting this book we read about Murph working in the bakery and Nash coming in with the invitation. And although I don’t like slow books, the start of this book was so fast it took me a little while to really get into. But when I did get into this book I started to enjoy myself. There were several moments when this book made me laugh out loud.
The main character Murph definitely made me laugh several times. She really is just kind of weird and a bit crazy to be honest. She did things to make Nash jealous, that were just so crazy I found myself thinking several times ‘No she didn’t… ‘ and well she did. LOL! Murph was a little weird, but I also enjoyed reading about how tough she was. She lost her mom, but still managed to keep on going and keep the bakery going too. Impressive!
The two other main characters Nash and Harley where these fun handsome best friends, who have always loved the same girl. They are both very different, but both very good guys. But the whole romance thing between them and Murph.. I didn’t get. The first part of this book Murph is all about Nash, and the second part she suddenly realizes she is all about Harley. I mean really? I didn’t want to stop reading, so I kept going but I didn’t really get that part of the book at all.
So, I’m honestly a little bit confused about this book. It was funny, the characters where fun to read about.. but I didn’t get the whole romance part.
In ‘Where We Belong’ we meet Alice ‘Murph’ Murphy. When Murph found out her mom was dying, she left everything behind to stay with her and to help out in her family’s bakery. After her mom died, she stayed, determined to make the bakery great again. But for months all she wanted was for her true love ‘Nash’ to come home and tell her he was ready to spend the rest of his life with her. What she didn’t expect was him to come by and give her his wedding invitation and marry someone else. Determined to make him change his mind, she decides to try and make him jealous by telling him she has been in a relationship with their other best friend Harley.
This book definitely didn’t have a slow start. Right after starting this book we read about Murph working in the bakery and Nash coming in with the invitation. And although I don’t like slow books, the start of this book was so fast it took me a little while to really get into. But when I did get into this book I started to enjoy myself. There were several moments when this book made me laugh out loud.
The main character Murph definitely made me laugh several times. She really is just kind of weird and a bit crazy to be honest. She did things to make Nash jealous, that were just so crazy I found myself thinking several times ‘No she didn’t… ‘ and well she did. LOL! Murph was a little weird, but I also enjoyed reading about how tough she was. She lost her mom, but still managed to keep on going and keep the bakery going too. Impressive!
The two other main characters Nash and Harley where these fun handsome best friends, who have always loved the same girl. They are both very different, but both very good guys. But the whole romance thing between them and Murph.. I didn’t get. The first part of this book Murph is all about Nash, and the second part she suddenly realizes she is all about Harley. I mean really? I didn’t want to stop reading, so I kept going but I didn’t really get that part of the book at all.
So, I’m honestly a little bit confused about this book. It was funny, the characters where fun to read about.. but I didn’t get the whole romance part.
July 19, 2022
Alice ‘Murph’ Murphy and her best friends Nash and Harley have been constant support in each other’s lives since they were nine years old. Two decades later their long repressed love triangle is brought to light when Nash invites them to his wedding to ‘the love of his life.’ Spoiler — she is not Murph. Her hard feelings push her to the edge in a funny and heartfelt attempt to change the impending destiny.. Ms McPherson weaves a sweet tale with lovable characters. It held me captive to the very last page.
June 13, 2023
Death can make you react in funny ways. Alice Murph Murphy is fulfilling a promise to her mother. Keeping the family bakery running means staying and waiting for the one that got away for Murph. Nash has finally returned and is soon to be married. Enter Harley, a local bartender who agrees to help Murph in her plan to show Nash that she is the only future for him. A series of incidents open Murph’s eyes to the treasure that is Harley and a question she must answer . Who is her future?
April 4, 2020
Not a great work of literature but perfect for my mood. And it was $0.99. It was light, romantic and predictable. Super quick read.
August 15, 2020
Loved this story. Emotional. Sweet. And relatable characters. Very descriptive writing. I’d love to see this made into film with Zoey Deutch as Murph. Shed be great!
February 22, 2020
Definitely unputdownable!
You’ll fall in love with the characters in this story so much, you won’t be able to put it down until you find out what happens to them all. Go, read, you’ll enjoy it!
You’ll fall in love with the characters in this story so much, you won’t be able to put it down until you find out what happens to them all. Go, read, you’ll enjoy it!
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