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The Laws of Love #2
The Polly Principle
Polly Fletcher loves marrying off her friends. Which is kind of weird considering she has no intention of ever walking down the aisle herself. Social worker by day, sex siren by night Polly has a clear set of principles that guide her life; her Tinder app, her Jimmy Choo shoes and a packet of condoms in her clutch.
So when she meets a sexy, silver-eyed stranger at a friend’s wedding, all she’s after is a wild night between the sheets.
Solo Jakoby has his Ducati motorbike, a backpack of his belongings, and a disaster he’s running away from in Sydney. And sure, he’s wildly attracted to the curvaceous beauty, but he has a job to do, and some unpleasant memories to forget. So what if their night together blew his mind? They’re never going to meet again.
But when Solo and Polly are flung together in quite different circumstances how are they going to handle the chemistry that just won’t seem to let up between them?
And when they start to uncover each other’s past hurts and vulnerabilities, is their crazy attraction set to turn into something deeper? Something that may just challenge Polly’s firmly upheld principle—to never, ever give away her heart.
So when she meets a sexy, silver-eyed stranger at a friend’s wedding, all she’s after is a wild night between the sheets.
Solo Jakoby has his Ducati motorbike, a backpack of his belongings, and a disaster he’s running away from in Sydney. And sure, he’s wildly attracted to the curvaceous beauty, but he has a job to do, and some unpleasant memories to forget. So what if their night together blew his mind? They’re never going to meet again.
But when Solo and Polly are flung together in quite different circumstances how are they going to handle the chemistry that just won’t seem to let up between them?
And when they start to uncover each other’s past hurts and vulnerabilities, is their crazy attraction set to turn into something deeper? Something that may just challenge Polly’s firmly upheld principle—to never, ever give away her heart.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2021
30 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Davina Stone
15 books104 followersDavina Stone writes romances about flawed but lovable characters who tend to get it horribly wrong before they finally get it right. They also kiss a fair bit on the way to happily ever after. She counts herself as an Anglo-Aussie, having lived exactly half her life in both countries.
When not writing she spends her time chasing kangaroos off her veggie patch, dodging snakes and staring down the odd crocodile. But despite her wild adventures, in her heart she still believes that a nice cup of tea will fix most problems and that true love conquers all.
Davina has been published in five Romance Writers of Australia short story anthologies. Her first novel, The Alice Equation, the first in the Laws of Love series is published in January 2021.
When not writing she spends her time chasing kangaroos off her veggie patch, dodging snakes and staring down the odd crocodile. But despite her wild adventures, in her heart she still believes that a nice cup of tea will fix most problems and that true love conquers all.
Davina has been published in five Romance Writers of Australia short story anthologies. Her first novel, The Alice Equation, the first in the Laws of Love series is published in January 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 1, 2022
This is a (one night stand turns into more) Romance, and this is the second book in The Laws of Love series. I read and reviewed the first book in this series which I really loved, so that is why I had to read this book. This book can be read has a standalone book. I have to say I really enjoyed this steamy romance, and the characters where so great. I loved Polly and Solo characters, and they fit together so well. I loved getting to know these two characters. This was a fun steamy romance that had a great storyline and characters. This book has a lot of talk and things about PTSD, and both the main characters are in the mental health field. Also, Both the main characters are facing their own secrets that stops them from totally opening up to each other. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Feathers and Stone Publishing) or author (Davina Stone) via Booksirens, so I can give honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
May 15, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Polly Fletcher spends all of her spare time setting up her friends but when it comes to herself, she has no intention of settling down. Her focus is on her job as a social worker, and when she’s off the clock, having a good time with whoever she wants.
When she is at her friends wedding and meets a handsome stranger, all she is looking for is one night of fun.
With a back pack full of his belongings and his Ducati motorbike, Solo Jakoby is trying to put distance between himself and his life back in Sydney. He has a job to do and some memories he would like to forget, even if he is attracted to the curvaceous beauty he spent a night with.
The next time Polly and Solo meet it is under very different circumstances. How will they handle being forced together everyday with the chemistry that simmers between them?
As they learn more about each other will their attraction become deeper and become something that may challenge Polly's principle of never giving away her heart?
What I liked about this book
The Laws of Love series has a great group of characters, but my favourite is by far Carts. (Who will be the main character in the next instalment of the series).
Polly and Solos relationship is by no means instant love. It has its issues and complexities which make it believable.
I found both books in this series to be really quite funny.
There is a lot of focus on mental health, in particular, PTSD.
This is the second part of the laws of love series. I am a big fan of this series but The Polly Principle is the best of the series so far. I’m looking forward to the next book where Carts will finally have his day.
5 stars
✮✮✮✮✮
Polly Fletcher spends all of her spare time setting up her friends but when it comes to herself, she has no intention of settling down. Her focus is on her job as a social worker, and when she’s off the clock, having a good time with whoever she wants.
When she is at her friends wedding and meets a handsome stranger, all she is looking for is one night of fun.
With a back pack full of his belongings and his Ducati motorbike, Solo Jakoby is trying to put distance between himself and his life back in Sydney. He has a job to do and some memories he would like to forget, even if he is attracted to the curvaceous beauty he spent a night with.
The next time Polly and Solo meet it is under very different circumstances. How will they handle being forced together everyday with the chemistry that simmers between them?
As they learn more about each other will their attraction become deeper and become something that may challenge Polly's principle of never giving away her heart?
What I liked about this book
The Laws of Love series has a great group of characters, but my favourite is by far Carts. (Who will be the main character in the next instalment of the series).
Polly and Solos relationship is by no means instant love. It has its issues and complexities which make it believable.
I found both books in this series to be really quite funny.
There is a lot of focus on mental health, in particular, PTSD.
This is the second part of the laws of love series. I am a big fan of this series but The Polly Principle is the best of the series so far. I’m looking forward to the next book where Carts will finally have his day.
5 stars
✮✮✮✮✮
Read
March 26, 2021Sometimes we defend ourselves so hard from past hurts, we can't see love when it's taking us by the hand and leading us somewhere wonderful...
And so begins the story of Polly Fletcher, feisty, curvy, independent, and so confident you'd never know how deeply insecure she is, and Solo Jakoby the sexiest beta hero on a motorbike you will ever meet (promise!)
You'll find friendship and family drama between these pages, and some intrigue too as the secret Solo is running from is revealed. And although there are lots of laughs and some seriously steamy moments, The Polly Principle also highlights mental health issues.
Will Polly and Solo work their way through all this and find that love triumphs in the end...? I hope you'll read The Polly Principle and find out for yourself.
And so begins the story of Polly Fletcher, feisty, curvy, independent, and so confident you'd never know how deeply insecure she is, and Solo Jakoby the sexiest beta hero on a motorbike you will ever meet (promise!)
You'll find friendship and family drama between these pages, and some intrigue too as the secret Solo is running from is revealed. And although there are lots of laughs and some seriously steamy moments, The Polly Principle also highlights mental health issues.
Will Polly and Solo work their way through all this and find that love triumphs in the end...? I hope you'll read The Polly Principle and find out for yourself.
August 14, 2024
polly is so annoying but also relatable. which probably means i'm also annoying?
March 30, 2021
Polly and Solo have a fling with no intention of ever seeing each other again. Funny how plans don’t always work out!
These two are committed to their work and to staying single. They both have pasts that are keeping them from truly moving forward and watching them try to deny the attraction they have is a delight. And when they don’t deny it, WOW, the pages of the book are aflame with their chemistry!
This book will have you laughing at their antics, crying over their pasts and rooting for their future.
This is the second in a series and sets up a third book, but can totally be read as a standalone. Looking forward to Carts getting his HEA, the poor guy so deserves it!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
These two are committed to their work and to staying single. They both have pasts that are keeping them from truly moving forward and watching them try to deny the attraction they have is a delight. And when they don’t deny it, WOW, the pages of the book are aflame with their chemistry!
This book will have you laughing at their antics, crying over their pasts and rooting for their future.
This is the second in a series and sets up a third book, but can totally be read as a standalone. Looking forward to Carts getting his HEA, the poor guy so deserves it!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
March 31, 2021
At this point, I don’t think any Davina Stone book will be able to disappoint me. I enjoyed The Polly Principle, I really did. I think it was different than The Alice Equation, but it was nicely different!
In The Alice Equation, we got a glimpse of Polly Fletcher, who is Alice’s best friend. I was so intrigued by her when I read The Alice Equation, so I was really excited to get to know Polly better in this new book.
“You’re a tightly closed book masquerading as a full-page spread.”
Polly has always helped her friends meet their one true love, and she’s perfectly okay with that. She loves helping her friends but doesn’t see herself committing to anyone, ever. That is until she meets Solo Jakoby.
God, how I loved Solo. He’s such a sweet, caring man with an interesting backstory. I love how throughout the book, he is also trying to let the past go and fully live his life. Polly also has a very interesting backstory, and I think both Solo and Polly’s backstories were interestingly worked out.
Stone always manages to build such interesting side characters into her books, such as Carts and Judith. I’m really excited to read their story because book three in The Laws of Love series will be about Carts, ahhhh I’m so excited! I also loved the small appearance of Aaron and Alice, who were the main characters in The Alice Equation.
The Polly Principle is another slow burn romance book, and I’m beginning to realize that I love slow burn romances.
In The Alice Equation, we got a glimpse of Polly Fletcher, who is Alice’s best friend. I was so intrigued by her when I read The Alice Equation, so I was really excited to get to know Polly better in this new book.
“You’re a tightly closed book masquerading as a full-page spread.”
Polly has always helped her friends meet their one true love, and she’s perfectly okay with that. She loves helping her friends but doesn’t see herself committing to anyone, ever. That is until she meets Solo Jakoby.
God, how I loved Solo. He’s such a sweet, caring man with an interesting backstory. I love how throughout the book, he is also trying to let the past go and fully live his life. Polly also has a very interesting backstory, and I think both Solo and Polly’s backstories were interestingly worked out.
Stone always manages to build such interesting side characters into her books, such as Carts and Judith. I’m really excited to read their story because book three in The Laws of Love series will be about Carts, ahhhh I’m so excited! I also loved the small appearance of Aaron and Alice, who were the main characters in The Alice Equation.
The Polly Principle is another slow burn romance book, and I’m beginning to realize that I love slow burn romances.
March 13, 2021
If you liked The Alice Equation, then you are going to like The Polly Principle!
Polly doesn't believe in love or relationships, her idea of a good time is just having casual sex with no feelings attached, but she loves marrying off her friends! But when her longtime fuck buddy, Jake, is the next one getting married to a girl she introduced him to, she doesn't know what she feels. That's when she met Solo, at the wedding reception, muttering to herself.
She obviously doesn't want more to it that a good time, and she think she won't have to see him again, obviously it doesn't work out that way.
I loved when Alice and Aaron popped back into the story, with a MASSIVE moment left unsaid from the end of the Alice Equation, which I loved.
I just really really enjoyed this book, and the characters feel real, like it's something you could hear happening to people you know.
Plus, the sex scenes are very steamy. So make sure you have a cold drink nearby to cool yourself down!
5* for me!
Polly doesn't believe in love or relationships, her idea of a good time is just having casual sex with no feelings attached, but she loves marrying off her friends! But when her longtime fuck buddy, Jake, is the next one getting married to a girl she introduced him to, she doesn't know what she feels. That's when she met Solo, at the wedding reception, muttering to herself.
She obviously doesn't want more to it that a good time, and she think she won't have to see him again, obviously it doesn't work out that way.
I loved when Alice and Aaron popped back into the story, with a MASSIVE moment left unsaid from the end of the Alice Equation, which I loved.
I just really really enjoyed this book, and the characters feel real, like it's something you could hear happening to people you know.
Plus, the sex scenes are very steamy. So make sure you have a cold drink nearby to cool yourself down!
5* for me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Polly Principle. Davina has taken two strong, but troubled characters and very cleverly twisted and twined them in such a romantic and sexy way, that I couldn't put the book down.
The dialogue was brilliantly unique, the scenes steamy, and the characters' conflicts and growth were both entertaining and emotional.
I laughed, I cried and I loved it.
The dialogue was brilliantly unique, the scenes steamy, and the characters' conflicts and growth were both entertaining and emotional.
I laughed, I cried and I loved it.
March 29, 2021
The book is a good funny enemies to lovers romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2021
*4.5 stars
I’m a sucker for enemies to lovers, any day. So when I received an advanced readers copy of The Polly Principle, I began reading it as soon as possible.
The Polly Principle follows Polly, our MC who has no intention of ever committing, but simply enjoying life and having fun. When she meets Solo, a newcomer with a past filled with secrets, she’s feels an uncalled for attraction to him. Forced into close quarters, they come to an agreement. With secrets and flaws making their way back to them, life gets in the way, leading both Polly and Solo outside of their comfort zone.
I absolutely loved this book !! The tension, the banter and the realistic plot made it so easy and enjoyable to read! I’m so glad we got to see Polly’s character development, but I do wish we got to see more from Solo’s side. Now, I can’t wait to read Carter and Judith’s story.
*received a ARC*
I’m a sucker for enemies to lovers, any day. So when I received an advanced readers copy of The Polly Principle, I began reading it as soon as possible.
The Polly Principle follows Polly, our MC who has no intention of ever committing, but simply enjoying life and having fun. When she meets Solo, a newcomer with a past filled with secrets, she’s feels an uncalled for attraction to him. Forced into close quarters, they come to an agreement. With secrets and flaws making their way back to them, life gets in the way, leading both Polly and Solo outside of their comfort zone.
I absolutely loved this book !! The tension, the banter and the realistic plot made it so easy and enjoyable to read! I’m so glad we got to see Polly’s character development, but I do wish we got to see more from Solo’s side. Now, I can’t wait to read Carter and Judith’s story.
*received a ARC*
March 13, 2021
Charming, funny, smart and sooo sexy, The Polly Principle is sunshine in book form. The writing dazzles, the characters’ chemistry is off the page, and I found myself alternately chuckling and fanning myself.
Polly is a feisty social worker and professional matchmaker to her friends, but believes love has no place in her own life.
Solo is a sexy motorbike rider, who not only listens but is also kind. (Swoon.)
Watching them drive each other crazy, while attempting to resist their attraction, was pure joy. (Though I will freely admit, there were several times I wanted to dive into the book and fight Polly for Solo. He’s mine, dammit!)
The story started with a bang and didn’t let up all the way through. Both characters were nuanced, with both strength and vulnerability. While the tone of the book was light and fun, it also dealt with more serious issues, such as PTSD and mental health. This gave the book depth and was handled with a light touch.
The hapless but loveable Carts from The Alice Equation also made an appearance and I’m thrilled to learn he’s getting his own book. I can’t wait for the next instalment of the Laws of Love!
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving a voluntary review.
Polly is a feisty social worker and professional matchmaker to her friends, but believes love has no place in her own life.
Solo is a sexy motorbike rider, who not only listens but is also kind. (Swoon.)
Watching them drive each other crazy, while attempting to resist their attraction, was pure joy. (Though I will freely admit, there were several times I wanted to dive into the book and fight Polly for Solo. He’s mine, dammit!)
The story started with a bang and didn’t let up all the way through. Both characters were nuanced, with both strength and vulnerability. While the tone of the book was light and fun, it also dealt with more serious issues, such as PTSD and mental health. This gave the book depth and was handled with a light touch.
The hapless but loveable Carts from The Alice Equation also made an appearance and I’m thrilled to learn he’s getting his own book. I can’t wait for the next instalment of the Laws of Love!
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving a voluntary review.
May 4, 2021
Davina Stone has done it again with another wonderful (and sizzling hot!) rom com. I loved 'The Alice Equation' and was very much looking forward to the second in her Laws of Love series, 'The Polly Principle' - and it did not disappoint. Funny, engaging and heartfelt, this enemies to lovers romance is a joy to read. Polly is a terrific character as is the handsome Solo - and Davina brings them together with great humour and heat, not to mention many beautiful and well-written words. Can't wait for the next one...
March 31, 2021
Divine!
Another triumph from the infinitely talented Davina Stone. If you’re a hopeless romantic then this is the book for you. No one’s walls are higher than Polly Fletcher’s and non one has been hurt as much as Solo Jacobi. A fabulously wicked ride that takes you exactly where we all want to be! Bring on the next instalment.
Another triumph from the infinitely talented Davina Stone. If you’re a hopeless romantic then this is the book for you. No one’s walls are higher than Polly Fletcher’s and non one has been hurt as much as Solo Jacobi. A fabulously wicked ride that takes you exactly where we all want to be! Bring on the next instalment.
March 15, 2021
Once again I want to say a huge thank you to Davina Stone for reaching out and offering me the opportunity to read a digital ARC of the second book in her series, The Laws Of Love.
Release date: March 29th, 2021
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Steam level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
We first met Polly as the match-maker best friend of Alice in The Alice Equation. Well, get ready to fall in love with her as much as you did Alice! Throughout the whole story there is so much depth to Polly, and so many other characters. I love that not only do we have the main storyline, but also other character storyline’s intertwined throughout.
And let me just say... Solo Jakoby... WHAT. A. STUD. He is such a complex character, with one hell of a backstory. The way he is so dreamy yet relatable, and so encouraging of Polly. It warmed my heart. So many times throughout this story I was genuinely grinning from ear to ear!
Speaking of Polly and Solo. Two words for you: SLOW. BURN. The way Davina Stone writes her stories, with such fun and wit, as well as incredible steam is incredible.
Please do yourself a favour and read this one! It is fun. It is sexy. It is meaningful.
It is... UN-PUT-DOWN-ABLE!
Okay, now to count down for Carts’ story! I cannot wait!
May 2, 2023
Hospital Social worker by day and free spirit by night, Polly Fletcher is happily single and has no intention of settling down. Despite this, she loves matchmaking her friends and has one golden rule; no mixing business with pleasure. So when she meets a sexy stranger at a friend’s wedding in rural Western Australia, she's excited for a night of fun.
Solo Jakoby has just ridden his Ducati motorbike across the Nullarbor from Sydney with the clothes in his backpack. He needed to get away from the drama that infiltrated his life and figured a secondment to Perth would be a fresh slate. He's only stopping through this town and it's the middle of nowhere; they'll never see each other again.
So when Polly discovers that she's unknowingly broken her only rule, how will they navigate their close proximity moving forwards? They both wanted one night, but with sizzling chemistry like theirs, it may not be enough..
This is book 2 in the Laws of Love series by @davinastone_ and an easy 5 stars! It's easily one of my favourite romance series as it combines all of my favourite things; my own hometown, mental health representation, spicy love and characters with a raw, vulnerable depth to them.
Polly is such a firecracker and I enjoyed seeing her take centre stage after being the FMC Alice's best friend in book 1. I loved the way that Perth is described and the 6 degrees of separation as its absolutely true! So it was no surprise when Carter, MMC Aaron's best friend from book 1, also appeared. I'm really looking forward to reading his love story in book 3!
Trigger warning for PTSD & alcoholism
Solo Jakoby has just ridden his Ducati motorbike across the Nullarbor from Sydney with the clothes in his backpack. He needed to get away from the drama that infiltrated his life and figured a secondment to Perth would be a fresh slate. He's only stopping through this town and it's the middle of nowhere; they'll never see each other again.
So when Polly discovers that she's unknowingly broken her only rule, how will they navigate their close proximity moving forwards? They both wanted one night, but with sizzling chemistry like theirs, it may not be enough..
This is book 2 in the Laws of Love series by @davinastone_ and an easy 5 stars! It's easily one of my favourite romance series as it combines all of my favourite things; my own hometown, mental health representation, spicy love and characters with a raw, vulnerable depth to them.
Polly is such a firecracker and I enjoyed seeing her take centre stage after being the FMC Alice's best friend in book 1. I loved the way that Perth is described and the 6 degrees of separation as its absolutely true! So it was no surprise when Carter, MMC Aaron's best friend from book 1, also appeared. I'm really looking forward to reading his love story in book 3!
Trigger warning for PTSD & alcoholism
July 1, 2021
There is something so refreshing about reading a book written by an English/Australian author. The words, the quirky writing, and those funny terminologies. I loved it all !!
I don't remember the last time I smiled so hard while reading a book. Polly was such a beautiful, sweet, funny and strong character that you couldn't help falling in love with her. She was great in the tidbits we read of her in the first book (The Alice Equation) and now finally she got her own book.
The hero Solo was so amazing and swoony. I loved the banter and bickering between Polly and Solo.
This book was one hell of a romcom and I'm sure I will be re reading it again soon!!
Can't wait for the next book in the series A kiss for Carter!
Check out my teaser for this amazing book on my instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/livelyreads/
I don't remember the last time I smiled so hard while reading a book. Polly was such a beautiful, sweet, funny and strong character that you couldn't help falling in love with her. She was great in the tidbits we read of her in the first book (The Alice Equation) and now finally she got her own book.
The hero Solo was so amazing and swoony. I loved the banter and bickering between Polly and Solo.
This book was one hell of a romcom and I'm sure I will be re reading it again soon!!
Can't wait for the next book in the series A kiss for Carter!
Check out my teaser for this amazing book on my instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/livelyreads/
March 31, 2021
I really enjoyed the Alice Equation and preordered the Polly Principle. I’m really glad I did.
I’m not super keen on ‘enemies to lovers’ but Davina Stone has done a brilliant job of making feisty, sassy Polly a person with depth that comes from identifiable pain. I didn’t always like her, but I understood her and why she was unable to believe in love.
A wonderful story.
I’m not super keen on ‘enemies to lovers’ but Davina Stone has done a brilliant job of making feisty, sassy Polly a person with depth that comes from identifiable pain. I didn’t always like her, but I understood her and why she was unable to believe in love.
A wonderful story.
April 13, 2021
After the joy that was
The Alice Equation
, I was excited to get started on the second novel in The Laws of Love series.
The Polly Principle
was an excellent follow-up that features a new main character within the same universe. I love these types of series as each character gets their time to shine and the reader still gets to get glimpses into the lives of the other past characters. Similar to the first novel, this is a slow-burn romance that is well done as the two main characters go through obstacles to acknowledge their feelings for the other.
Polly Fletcher is a social worker for the neurology department at a hospital in Australia. The reader first saw glimpses of her character as Alice’s best friend in the first novel, but this time, she is front and center as the main character. Alice is still featured through conversations and to support as Polly’s best friend, but she is not a main character. Due to events in Polly’s past (they are revealed throughout the book), Polly is not a fan of love. She is okay with casual relationships as they can be on her terms, but she is not ready to move beyond this lifestyle. She is a fan of love for her friends, so after the success of her meddling in Alice and Aaron plus other friends, she is ready to move on to her next set-up. At the wedding of her friend, Jake, Polly meets Soloman (“Solo”) Jakoby. The two of them hit it off and decide to have a seemingly one night stand due to their insane attraction to the other.
Obviously, as a romance story, the two of them are not destined for just one meeting and end up seeing each other again in the very near future. The two of them fight their feelings and attraction for the other due to their new circumstances, but it is proven to be a lot more difficult than either of them thought. The story delves into each of their backstories and the readers learn about each character and what makes them tick. The reveals of their pasts were well done and come about in a very natural way as pieces are revealed when they are appropriate to the story and are integrated well into the dialogues and flashbacks.
As a lot of the story takes place in a mental health capacity due to the characters’ careers, there is a lot of discussion about PTSD and how it affects characters in different ways. The novel goes through multiple pieces from medications to therapy methods. Almost every side character gets to reveal more about themselves, so it was nice to experience all of them in addition to the main characters. It gave the novel a more relatable and realistic feel when I read through the pages. The novel ties together the first and seamlessly sets up the next novel as the author sets the stage to get the reader excited to read the next novel without taking away from the enjoyment of the current.
Although the novels take place on a moving timeline, each features a new main character, so, in theory, it could be read as a standalone. It would be recommended to read them in order as it gives background and introduction to the universe and characters. Both Polly and Solo are complex characters with their own pasts and insecurities that they work on. Polly’s obstacles were relatable as not only does she have complicated relationships with other (romance and her family), but she has a constant struggle with her body image. She is a size 12 aus (size 8 US), which is nowhere near overweight, but she has trouble with how her body does not measure up to the perfect ratio expected of society. It is a very relatable issue and highlights that body image issues are not just limited to those considered fat.
The Polly Principle had its own style compared to The Alice Equation while still feeling like they were written by the same author. It made each story interesting to read in their own way yet still feeling connected to the other. I hope the feeling continues as I will definitely be picking up the third novel, A Kiss for Carter, which will finally feature Polly’s friend and Solo’s housemate, Carts. It will be thrilling for this character to get his own HEA. Overall, this was another delightful read by Divina Stone and I cannot wait to read the next novel and any other works that she publishes in the future! [4.5 rounded to 5]
**I want to give a special thank you to Booksirens and the author, Davina Stone, for a review copy of this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Polly Fletcher is a social worker for the neurology department at a hospital in Australia. The reader first saw glimpses of her character as Alice’s best friend in the first novel, but this time, she is front and center as the main character. Alice is still featured through conversations and to support as Polly’s best friend, but she is not a main character. Due to events in Polly’s past (they are revealed throughout the book), Polly is not a fan of love. She is okay with casual relationships as they can be on her terms, but she is not ready to move beyond this lifestyle. She is a fan of love for her friends, so after the success of her meddling in Alice and Aaron plus other friends, she is ready to move on to her next set-up. At the wedding of her friend, Jake, Polly meets Soloman (“Solo”) Jakoby. The two of them hit it off and decide to have a seemingly one night stand due to their insane attraction to the other.
Obviously, as a romance story, the two of them are not destined for just one meeting and end up seeing each other again in the very near future. The two of them fight their feelings and attraction for the other due to their new circumstances, but it is proven to be a lot more difficult than either of them thought. The story delves into each of their backstories and the readers learn about each character and what makes them tick. The reveals of their pasts were well done and come about in a very natural way as pieces are revealed when they are appropriate to the story and are integrated well into the dialogues and flashbacks.
As a lot of the story takes place in a mental health capacity due to the characters’ careers, there is a lot of discussion about PTSD and how it affects characters in different ways. The novel goes through multiple pieces from medications to therapy methods. Almost every side character gets to reveal more about themselves, so it was nice to experience all of them in addition to the main characters. It gave the novel a more relatable and realistic feel when I read through the pages. The novel ties together the first and seamlessly sets up the next novel as the author sets the stage to get the reader excited to read the next novel without taking away from the enjoyment of the current.
Although the novels take place on a moving timeline, each features a new main character, so, in theory, it could be read as a standalone. It would be recommended to read them in order as it gives background and introduction to the universe and characters. Both Polly and Solo are complex characters with their own pasts and insecurities that they work on. Polly’s obstacles were relatable as not only does she have complicated relationships with other (romance and her family), but she has a constant struggle with her body image. She is a size 12 aus (size 8 US), which is nowhere near overweight, but she has trouble with how her body does not measure up to the perfect ratio expected of society. It is a very relatable issue and highlights that body image issues are not just limited to those considered fat.
The Polly Principle had its own style compared to The Alice Equation while still feeling like they were written by the same author. It made each story interesting to read in their own way yet still feeling connected to the other. I hope the feeling continues as I will definitely be picking up the third novel, A Kiss for Carter, which will finally feature Polly’s friend and Solo’s housemate, Carts. It will be thrilling for this character to get his own HEA. Overall, this was another delightful read by Divina Stone and I cannot wait to read the next novel and any other works that she publishes in the future! [4.5 rounded to 5]
**I want to give a special thank you to Booksirens and the author, Davina Stone, for a review copy of this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
April 9, 2021
In the second book in this series by Davina Stone, we get to meet Polly properly and learn all her quirks and hangups about life and love. Love it seems is only for other people, not for her, definitely not for her, of this, she makes it abundantly clear.
When Polly meets Solo at a wedding, a quick one night is all she is wanting, but things don't go to plan and Polly's world begins to be turned upside down, forcing her to feel things she doesn't want to feel, and Polly is awfully good at denial.
I really liked Solo, and I actually felt very sorry for him when it came to his relationship, or lack thereof with Polly, due to her hangups about love, she really treats him quite badly and I don't know that I'd have stuck around the way he did if someone blew that hot and cold with me. Obviously, he saw deep inside just what Polly was trying to hide and his feelings towards her were very strong.
Solo comes with his own issues and a past that he too needs to deal with, oh this story is a complicated web of feelings for our main characters.
Polly's family, especially her father, plays a big part in what has shaped Polly into being who she is and how she is and with her dad's 70th birthday coming up, we get to find out more about her past.
Polly also has a complicated relationship with her body, and on this, I can completely empathise with her. Polly has beautiful curves, but she doesn't see them, and constantly wants to change how she looks, while self-sabotaging that at the same time. Oh, Polly, my heart was with you on this one.
This was a novel of self-discovery, for both Polly and Solo, a story of healing for them also, and for Polly's dad Ted. A really enjoyable novel, I'm looking forward to book 3 where we get to see if Carts, Polly's friend and Solo's housemate finds true love.
When Polly meets Solo at a wedding, a quick one night is all she is wanting, but things don't go to plan and Polly's world begins to be turned upside down, forcing her to feel things she doesn't want to feel, and Polly is awfully good at denial.
I really liked Solo, and I actually felt very sorry for him when it came to his relationship, or lack thereof with Polly, due to her hangups about love, she really treats him quite badly and I don't know that I'd have stuck around the way he did if someone blew that hot and cold with me. Obviously, he saw deep inside just what Polly was trying to hide and his feelings towards her were very strong.
Solo comes with his own issues and a past that he too needs to deal with, oh this story is a complicated web of feelings for our main characters.
Polly's family, especially her father, plays a big part in what has shaped Polly into being who she is and how she is and with her dad's 70th birthday coming up, we get to find out more about her past.
Polly also has a complicated relationship with her body, and on this, I can completely empathise with her. Polly has beautiful curves, but she doesn't see them, and constantly wants to change how she looks, while self-sabotaging that at the same time. Oh, Polly, my heart was with you on this one.
This was a novel of self-discovery, for both Polly and Solo, a story of healing for them also, and for Polly's dad Ted. A really enjoyable novel, I'm looking forward to book 3 where we get to see if Carts, Polly's friend and Solo's housemate finds true love.
April 14, 2021
Absolutely a great follow-up to book one, 'The Alice Equation', proving that Davina Stone knows how to spin a super yarn.
Polly, who we got to know as Alice's friend, now has her own romantic adventure, and boy is it a good one. This character is a very strong powerful woman and she definitely needs a man to match her. Solo Jakoby is exactly who I wanted to come her way and everything sizzles around them. Nothing is quite as it seems and both of them have their own issues to overcome to be able to move forward into a possible future that keeps them together. Entertaining and amusing is what this book is all about, though it does address respectfully issues around mental health.
This book doesn't have to be read as part of a series but do yourself a favour and read Alice's story as well. I'm very excited to know that there is another book to come - not ready to leave this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Polly, who we got to know as Alice's friend, now has her own romantic adventure, and boy is it a good one. This character is a very strong powerful woman and she definitely needs a man to match her. Solo Jakoby is exactly who I wanted to come her way and everything sizzles around them. Nothing is quite as it seems and both of them have their own issues to overcome to be able to move forward into a possible future that keeps them together. Entertaining and amusing is what this book is all about, though it does address respectfully issues around mental health.
This book doesn't have to be read as part of a series but do yourself a favour and read Alice's story as well. I'm very excited to know that there is another book to come - not ready to leave this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 15, 2021
Polly has the knack of helping her friends meet their true loves, but as far as finding her own she is fine with a fling and spring. She isn’t one for commitment but likes to keeping things light and fun. When Polly meets Solo little does she know that her whole world is about to be turned upside down.
You could feel the chemistry between Polly and Solo from their first encounter and I couldn’t wait to see where it would lead. Davina Stone weaved both of their stories together perfectly, showing the past traumas both have had in their lives and the transition from friendship to love. She deals PTSD, mental illness and alcoholism with respect.
This book is thoughtful in all the right places and sizzles just when you need it to. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and the complexity of the characters.
I want to thank BookSirens, the author and publisher for the e-ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are honest, my own and left voluntarily.
You could feel the chemistry between Polly and Solo from their first encounter and I couldn’t wait to see where it would lead. Davina Stone weaved both of their stories together perfectly, showing the past traumas both have had in their lives and the transition from friendship to love. She deals PTSD, mental illness and alcoholism with respect.
This book is thoughtful in all the right places and sizzles just when you need it to. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and the complexity of the characters.
I want to thank BookSirens, the author and publisher for the e-ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are honest, my own and left voluntarily.
March 29, 2021
This book is brilliant. A romance book which explores mental health, a triumph in modern fiction.
Who doesn't like a book with a plot of a one night stand with a stranger but then a twist causes the strangers to have to work with each other?
There are links throughout the book to the previous book in the series 'the Alice Equation'. But despite these references to the previous book 'The Poppy Principle' can be read independently.
This book explores the mental illness effects from PTSD and how no matter whether it was the Vietnam war or the Afghanistan war, war has side effects which are living victims as well as it effects the loved ones. This discussion of mental illness and therapy s becoming an increasing trait of modern fiction as it helps modern readers relate to these characters and overall plotlines.
This book is perfect for readers of romance books and may also enjoy 'The Rosie Project- by Graeme Simsion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Who doesn't like a book with a plot of a one night stand with a stranger but then a twist causes the strangers to have to work with each other?
There are links throughout the book to the previous book in the series 'the Alice Equation'. But despite these references to the previous book 'The Poppy Principle' can be read independently.
This book explores the mental illness effects from PTSD and how no matter whether it was the Vietnam war or the Afghanistan war, war has side effects which are living victims as well as it effects the loved ones. This discussion of mental illness and therapy s becoming an increasing trait of modern fiction as it helps modern readers relate to these characters and overall plotlines.
This book is perfect for readers of romance books and may also enjoy 'The Rosie Project- by Graeme Simsion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 28, 2021
Exuberant Polly first appeared in The Alice Equation, encouraging Alice to ditch predictability for sexiness and sass. Both are qualities Poly exemplifies, when she has a fling at a country wedding. She’s feeling a little down as her ‘friends with benefits,’ guy is getting married. Not that Polly wants marriage, she’s content with uncomplicated sex, with no promises, and no commitment. So, after that one night, she’s comfortable that Solo, the sexy stranger, will ride his Ducati motorbike away and out of her life.
Practical workaday Polly is serious about her job, and she doesn’t encourage any distractions there. But changes are in the air and there are diversions she can’t ignore. Can party girl Polly resist making an appearance, when the new guy at work is sexy as hell?
Can colleagues take it up a notch or does that risk their working relationship? There is depth to the story as it deals with some mental health issues, sensitively and thoughtfully.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Practical workaday Polly is serious about her job, and she doesn’t encourage any distractions there. But changes are in the air and there are diversions she can’t ignore. Can party girl Polly resist making an appearance, when the new guy at work is sexy as hell?
Can colleagues take it up a notch or does that risk their working relationship? There is depth to the story as it deals with some mental health issues, sensitively and thoughtfully.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 30, 2021
Great read - I couldn't put it down! Polly and Solo are both mental health professionals yet battling their own demons - yet they have great chemistry (and heat!) and are able to help each other! Lots of secondary characters and plot to keep the story interesting...can't wait to read more from this author!
June 26, 2021
What a refreshing story to read. There's a little bit of Polly in all of us. None of us are perfect and Davina Stone brings this out so well in The Polly Principle. We all want to be loved for who we are and not how we look. Or how we think we look. The sex is cute and raunchy, something Davina does so well. And Polly gets her man in the end, even if she has to rethink a few things.
And not to forget Solo. Dark, mysterious and rides a Ducati. All the right ingredients.
A great weekend read, or any day of the week, for that matter.
And not to forget Solo. Dark, mysterious and rides a Ducati. All the right ingredients.
A great weekend read, or any day of the week, for that matter.
June 27, 2021
Thank you, Davina Stone, for a fun, sexy, and heartwarming follow-up to The Alice Equation. It put a smile on my face on a cold rainy day. Polly is a feisty independent woman and Solo is swoon-worthy. You can’t help cheering for them the entire book. I can’t wait for the next installment.
March 31, 2021
Another best-seller from Davina Stone! Davina has a great flair for hot, sexy romance with wonderful depth of character. Looking forward to book 3 in the series.
May 19, 2021
Adored everything about this book. Can't wait to read more.
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February 6, 2022I loved the novel, but I made a minor adjustment to Polly's character. I made her a few shades darker. She read better that way 🤷🏽♀️
I found the difference in their career paths interesting, especially their view on medicine as a result of the trauma they've both experienced. I could sense the intent of the author was not to be preachy, but to acknowledge and highlight both sides of the coin without judgment.
I enjoyed it. I want to see Carter happy so guess what I'm reading next. 😋
I found the difference in their career paths interesting, especially their view on medicine as a result of the trauma they've both experienced. I could sense the intent of the author was not to be preachy, but to acknowledge and highlight both sides of the coin without judgment.
I enjoyed it. I want to see Carter happy so guess what I'm reading next. 😋
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