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One More Chapter #2
The Enemy Plot
She’s searching for Prince Charming, but can a grumpy neighbor rewrite her love story?
My dream came true.
A man walked into my bookstore asking to buy some books. As a hopeless romantic who's been kissing plenty of grenouilles, I thought I might finally meet my prince charming.
Except it wasn’t Prince Charming—it was Deacon Collier, my neighbor and my personal nemesis.
Despite his smoldering looks and a narrator-worthy voice, he seems determined to get on my last nerve.
And when he tells me audiobooks don’t count as reading, I see red. Deacon has secured a top spot on my enemy list, and I’m not about to let him win.
But then there’s Lola, his grieving teenage niece with a serious book addiction. How can I turn my back on a fellow bookworm who needs guidance? So, I give her book recommendations, help with her French homework, and strive to be the role model she desperately needs.
The more time I spend with Lola and Deacon, the more I see past his gruff exterior to the sweet, cinnamon roll hidden underneath.
And when I come back defeated from yet another date, Deacon takes me on the ultimate bookish lover date, and I have no choice but to fall for him. Hard.
But there’s a Deacon has personal issues to sort out and might not be ready for a serious relationship.
Could he be the prince I’ve been searching for, or will he end up shattering my heart?
The Enemy Plot is an enemies to lovers romcom between a grumpy bar owner and a romantic bookstore owner.
It’s the second book in the One More Chapter series.
From Bookstagram besties to bookstore owners, follow three bookish girls as they navigate their own real life romance drama in the hope of finding their HEA.
All books are standalones and can be read in any order.
Perfect for fans
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Grumpy x Sunshine
✔️Single Dad
✔️Neighbors
✔️Age Gap
✔️Bookish Girl
✔️Protective Hero
✔️Closed Door/Kisses Only
My dream came true.
A man walked into my bookstore asking to buy some books. As a hopeless romantic who's been kissing plenty of grenouilles, I thought I might finally meet my prince charming.
Except it wasn’t Prince Charming—it was Deacon Collier, my neighbor and my personal nemesis.
Despite his smoldering looks and a narrator-worthy voice, he seems determined to get on my last nerve.
And when he tells me audiobooks don’t count as reading, I see red. Deacon has secured a top spot on my enemy list, and I’m not about to let him win.
But then there’s Lola, his grieving teenage niece with a serious book addiction. How can I turn my back on a fellow bookworm who needs guidance? So, I give her book recommendations, help with her French homework, and strive to be the role model she desperately needs.
The more time I spend with Lola and Deacon, the more I see past his gruff exterior to the sweet, cinnamon roll hidden underneath.
And when I come back defeated from yet another date, Deacon takes me on the ultimate bookish lover date, and I have no choice but to fall for him. Hard.
But there’s a Deacon has personal issues to sort out and might not be ready for a serious relationship.
Could he be the prince I’ve been searching for, or will he end up shattering my heart?
The Enemy Plot is an enemies to lovers romcom between a grumpy bar owner and a romantic bookstore owner.
It’s the second book in the One More Chapter series.
From Bookstagram besties to bookstore owners, follow three bookish girls as they navigate their own real life romance drama in the hope of finding their HEA.
All books are standalones and can be read in any order.
Perfect for fans
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Grumpy x Sunshine
✔️Single Dad
✔️Neighbors
✔️Age Gap
✔️Bookish Girl
✔️Protective Hero
✔️Closed Door/Kisses Only
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2024
61 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
Marion De Ré
28 books243 followersMarion De Ré is a closed-door romantic comedy author. She lives in the French countryside with her husband and adorable cat. You can expect all your beloved tropes in her writing as well as a good dose of humor and all the feels. When she's not reading or writing, you can find her on a plane to a far-away destination.
Get a free story: http://www.subscribepage.io/bYvJRP
Find Marion on Instagram : www.instagram.com/marionderewrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
November 10, 2024
Synopsis:
Alice is living her dream: owning a bookstore with her best friends. Except that it seems her neighbor wants to make her life unbearable. Until, one day, he needs help with his teenage niece.
Includes:
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Neighbors
✨Bookstagrammers
✨Single Guardian
✨Age Gap
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Only One Tent
🌶️Heat Level:
Kissing Only
Mild Innuendo
Attraction/Tension:🔥🔥
My Opinion:
This series is a love letter to bookstagram, and it’s so nice to read about people who love books. The story is very focused on the character development, especially when it comes to difficult subjects like grief and life changing situations. But for me, it was more focused on the stories of the main characters separately than the romance between them. The tension is still there, and it’s very swoony.
TW:
*𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫. 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧.*
Alice is living her dream: owning a bookstore with her best friends. Except that it seems her neighbor wants to make her life unbearable. Until, one day, he needs help with his teenage niece.
Includes:
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Neighbors
✨Bookstagrammers
✨Single Guardian
✨Age Gap
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Only One Tent
🌶️Heat Level:
Kissing Only
Mild Innuendo
Attraction/Tension:🔥🔥
My Opinion:
This series is a love letter to bookstagram, and it’s so nice to read about people who love books. The story is very focused on the character development, especially when it comes to difficult subjects like grief and life changing situations. But for me, it was more focused on the stories of the main characters separately than the romance between them. The tension is still there, and it’s very swoony.
TW:
*𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫. 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧.*
October 5, 2024
ARC review
This was so cute, I loved it.
I was so excited to read Alice's story after the way the last chapter in the first went and I was not disapointed.
Alice was young but she knew what she wanted in her life. The kind of love dreams are made of. She was so cheerful and I liked her.
Deacon had just lost his sister and gained custody of his niece, and things were not going well. And then Alice showed up and changed everything.
They could deny their chemistry as they wanted but it was there. Their bickering and seeking each other out voluntary, it was so obvious.
I loved them as a couple, they were good together and they got the kind of love you only read in books
This was so cute, I loved it.
I was so excited to read Alice's story after the way the last chapter in the first went and I was not disapointed.
Alice was young but she knew what she wanted in her life. The kind of love dreams are made of. She was so cheerful and I liked her.
Deacon had just lost his sister and gained custody of his niece, and things were not going well. And then Alice showed up and changed everything.
They could deny their chemistry as they wanted but it was there. Their bickering and seeking each other out voluntary, it was so obvious.
I loved them as a couple, they were good together and they got the kind of love you only read in books
October 1, 2024
How I adored catching with Alice, Hayley and Emma in the One More Chapter series. This series is definitely a love lettter to Bookstagram! The Enemy Plot as the name suggests is an enemies to lovers age gap romance all set around a romance bookstore. This one features Alice a hopeless romantic and Deacon the grumpy bar owner who lives next door. This was a joy to read and I love the way Marion writes, she is becoming one of my favourite authors. I would highly recommend this book and I would personally read The Tenacious Act first as you are introduced to a lot of the characters. Adored this one! I received a complementary copy from the author.
October 17, 2024
I absolutely adored Deacon & Alice's grumpy, sunshiny, intense, sweet,caring, loving, swoony story!!
October 9, 2024
I was excited to jump into The Enemy Plot, the second book in the One More Chapter series, which continues to deliver as a love letter to Bookstagram. Returning to our favorite bookstore, One More Chapter, we catch up with Alice, Haley, Emma, and of course, Mr. Darcy, the cat! This time, the spotlight is on Alice, a hopeless romantic, who finds herself in a heated dispute with her grumpy new neighbor, Deacon, a bar owner. Their close proximity leads to plenty of hilarious, tension-filled moments that had me hooked from the start. The witty banter between Alice and Deacon was electric, with an undeniable spark behind their verbal sparring.
Alice is a charming, independent, and romantic French girl, passionate about her friends, family, and, of course, books. She has a special flair for giving out book recommendations, making her a true bookish girl. When Deacon walks into her bookstore asking for help finding books for his niece, Lola, the dynamic between them shifts. Alice begins to help Lola with her French homework and book recommendations, and through that, she and Deacon's relationship starts to deepen.
Deacon didn't win me over at first-he's a classic grump, weighed down by grief after the loss of his sister, now raising his niece, Lola on his own. His world is turned upside down, but Alice's warmth and positivity eventually break through his hardened exterior. Despite their age difference, it's Alice who helps Deacon heal and come to terms with his past losses. I loved watching her bring calm and light into his life.
Alice quickly bonds with Lola, and it was heartwarming to see how Alice and the girls became a source of support for her. I appreciated how the story balanced Deacon's gruffness with his vulnerability, particularly with the therapy aspect, which added depth to his character.
As Alice and Deacon navigate their differences, their story unfolds with humor, vulnerability, and heart. With its well-crafted dual narrative and poignant exploration of grief and healing, this novel reminds us that love and connection can transform even the darkest moments. The book's shorter length made it a quick, engaging read. There were plenty of bookish references and nods to Bookstagram culture, which added a fun layer to the story. My favorite part was the bookish date Deacon planned for Alice-it was adorable! It’s a total swoon-fest! He not only wins Alice’s heart but mine too!
I loved all the little details Marion gave each of the main characters! It really made them special! I also love Alice’s book brooches! I can’t leave out Mr. Darcy because he did a wonderful job of bringing these two together as well!
The Enemy Plot is a delightful addition to the series and can be enjoyed as a standalone. It's a heartwarming story of love, healing, and the power of books to bring people together.
Thank you Marion for giving me an advanced copy of your book! I throughly enjoyed reading about Alice and Deacon and being able to share them with you!
Alice is a charming, independent, and romantic French girl, passionate about her friends, family, and, of course, books. She has a special flair for giving out book recommendations, making her a true bookish girl. When Deacon walks into her bookstore asking for help finding books for his niece, Lola, the dynamic between them shifts. Alice begins to help Lola with her French homework and book recommendations, and through that, she and Deacon's relationship starts to deepen.
Deacon didn't win me over at first-he's a classic grump, weighed down by grief after the loss of his sister, now raising his niece, Lola on his own. His world is turned upside down, but Alice's warmth and positivity eventually break through his hardened exterior. Despite their age difference, it's Alice who helps Deacon heal and come to terms with his past losses. I loved watching her bring calm and light into his life.
Alice quickly bonds with Lola, and it was heartwarming to see how Alice and the girls became a source of support for her. I appreciated how the story balanced Deacon's gruffness with his vulnerability, particularly with the therapy aspect, which added depth to his character.
As Alice and Deacon navigate their differences, their story unfolds with humor, vulnerability, and heart. With its well-crafted dual narrative and poignant exploration of grief and healing, this novel reminds us that love and connection can transform even the darkest moments. The book's shorter length made it a quick, engaging read. There were plenty of bookish references and nods to Bookstagram culture, which added a fun layer to the story. My favorite part was the bookish date Deacon planned for Alice-it was adorable! It’s a total swoon-fest! He not only wins Alice’s heart but mine too!
I loved all the little details Marion gave each of the main characters! It really made them special! I also love Alice’s book brooches! I can’t leave out Mr. Darcy because he did a wonderful job of bringing these two together as well!
The Enemy Plot is a delightful addition to the series and can be enjoyed as a standalone. It's a heartwarming story of love, healing, and the power of books to bring people together.
Thank you Marion for giving me an advanced copy of your book! I throughly enjoyed reading about Alice and Deacon and being able to share them with you!
October 22, 2024
And Marion hits again 💗
I really liked this book. I feel like all the plots in all the books have unique story lines. Yes we see common things, but they’re just life struggles. The way Marion writes them, they’re so uniquely built to fit the story perfectly
I liked how Alice was in her lover era. Like me. I loved it actually. She didn’t give up, date after date until she found the right one. This book was proof that when you don’t look for love in someone, that’s where the real love is. Because again, same. When I stopped looking, I found him and he was right in front of my face my whole life🥹
I also love people who know exactly what they want. Alice, young, BUT very sunshiny and knows exactly what she likes and doesn’t like. She knows what she wants and what she doesn’t. She doesn’t let anything or anyone stand in her way and I really liked that about her
Lola was a great addition to this book. She added so much sass and wittiness. She’s funny and she’s cute and she’s just trying to fit in while grieving her great loss. I love how she’s passive aggressive with Deacon but really she just loves hiving him a hard time and she loves him so much
I also really liked the therapy sessions. The questions fired at Deacon and the information Lola sneaks to Dr. S and catches Deacon off guard had me cracking up. Also, the adventures and dates were really thought off. The trip they took together and the bookish date were absolute favorites
Deacon is very passionate and caring and ambitious and responsible and thoughtful. I think he was the perfect guy for Alice and the perfect father figure for Lola. He kept saying he’s lucky to have them in his life, which I agree, but really as hard as he was trying to keep everything normal for Lola and go out of his way to make Alice happy, makes me think that they’re the lucky ones
Really great book. I loved it💜
I really liked this book. I feel like all the plots in all the books have unique story lines. Yes we see common things, but they’re just life struggles. The way Marion writes them, they’re so uniquely built to fit the story perfectly
I liked how Alice was in her lover era. Like me. I loved it actually. She didn’t give up, date after date until she found the right one. This book was proof that when you don’t look for love in someone, that’s where the real love is. Because again, same. When I stopped looking, I found him and he was right in front of my face my whole life🥹
I also love people who know exactly what they want. Alice, young, BUT very sunshiny and knows exactly what she likes and doesn’t like. She knows what she wants and what she doesn’t. She doesn’t let anything or anyone stand in her way and I really liked that about her
Lola was a great addition to this book. She added so much sass and wittiness. She’s funny and she’s cute and she’s just trying to fit in while grieving her great loss. I love how she’s passive aggressive with Deacon but really she just loves hiving him a hard time and she loves him so much
I also really liked the therapy sessions. The questions fired at Deacon and the information Lola sneaks to Dr. S and catches Deacon off guard had me cracking up. Also, the adventures and dates were really thought off. The trip they took together and the bookish date were absolute favorites
Deacon is very passionate and caring and ambitious and responsible and thoughtful. I think he was the perfect guy for Alice and the perfect father figure for Lola. He kept saying he’s lucky to have them in his life, which I agree, but really as hard as he was trying to keep everything normal for Lola and go out of his way to make Alice happy, makes me think that they’re the lucky ones
Really great book. I loved it💜
October 15, 2024
Welcome back to this adorable series, One More Chapter!!! I am loving these darling characters. What do you do when you find like-minded friends who love books as much as you do? Why start a bookstore together of course!!! These three girls, Alice, Haley and Emma are adorable! They're my kind of people! Book besties are the best kind of friends ever! I loved reading Haley's chapter in the first book and I loved Alice's book just as much!
Alice and her neighbor don't get off on the right foot, or conversation, when they first meet. Haha! It's about books, and it doesn't sit well with Alice at all. Deacon is a grump and doesn't even seem sorry with his brusque manner. And after that conversation he is firmly on her enemy list. Oh my word. These two are so funny to watch. Thankfully there are several things that they just don't know about each other, and when they finally take the time to break down the barriers they've put up, they start to realize there's more to each other than they first realized.
They still have their moments throughout the book. But I loved watching Deacon come to Alice's aid and not allowing others to be jerks to her. Oh the irony! Haha!
I also loved the relationship that develops between Alice and Lola, Deacon's niece. It was so sweet to see how that relationship helped Deacon become closer to his niece. There's more to the story than what I'm saying and I'm trying to avoid spoilers, just know you're going to love it!
So many great scenes. Deacon is a romantic at heart and Alice doesn't stand a chance when he let's his heart be open to possibilities. Swoon!!!
Also, I am beyond EXCITED for Emma's book!!!!!!!! I loved how the author set up her story in this book. I highly recommend reading them all, but in order. You could read them as standalones but definitely much better in order.
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. Deacon does own a bar so there's some scenes in a bar but the drinking is not the focus.
I received a copy from the author, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Alice and her neighbor don't get off on the right foot, or conversation, when they first meet. Haha! It's about books, and it doesn't sit well with Alice at all. Deacon is a grump and doesn't even seem sorry with his brusque manner. And after that conversation he is firmly on her enemy list. Oh my word. These two are so funny to watch. Thankfully there are several things that they just don't know about each other, and when they finally take the time to break down the barriers they've put up, they start to realize there's more to each other than they first realized.
They still have their moments throughout the book. But I loved watching Deacon come to Alice's aid and not allowing others to be jerks to her. Oh the irony! Haha!
I also loved the relationship that develops between Alice and Lola, Deacon's niece. It was so sweet to see how that relationship helped Deacon become closer to his niece. There's more to the story than what I'm saying and I'm trying to avoid spoilers, just know you're going to love it!
So many great scenes. Deacon is a romantic at heart and Alice doesn't stand a chance when he let's his heart be open to possibilities. Swoon!!!
Also, I am beyond EXCITED for Emma's book!!!!!!!! I loved how the author set up her story in this book. I highly recommend reading them all, but in order. You could read them as standalones but definitely much better in order.
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. Deacon does own a bar so there's some scenes in a bar but the drinking is not the focus.
I received a copy from the author, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
October 16, 2024
4.25 stars
Second in the One More Chapter series, following a group of Booksta Besties who open up a closed-door romance bookstore in Brooklyn together, this one follows Alice, the hopeless romantic audiobook lover. After countless bad dates, she's just about ready to give up on finding the one, and is fighting on the daily with next door neighbor and fellow business owner, Deacon, over his loud music as he renovates his bar. After butting heads for months, they finally call a truce when Deacon's niece, whom he is newly raising, expresses an interest in visiting the bookstore. After seeing how comfortable his niece is around Alice, Deacon starts to rely on her for guidance, and Alice sees that Deacon's crusty exterior is just a shield from a lifetime of grief. This was a sweet progression of enemies to maybe not quite friends to lovers, though it did give me slight pause that Alice was closer in age to 14 year old Lola than 35 year old Deacon. I did like seeing therapy being normalized, especially for a man, and that Deacon was mostly receptive to suggestions on how to handle his situation and was quick to apologize when he was hurtful. I enjoyed this one better than the first because of the enemies to lovers banter, but I'm looking most forward to the next book, featuring black cat personality Emma, who is hilariously relatable to me.
🩷 Thank you Marion De Ré for sending me a copy of The Enemy Plot to review.
Second in the One More Chapter series, following a group of Booksta Besties who open up a closed-door romance bookstore in Brooklyn together, this one follows Alice, the hopeless romantic audiobook lover. After countless bad dates, she's just about ready to give up on finding the one, and is fighting on the daily with next door neighbor and fellow business owner, Deacon, over his loud music as he renovates his bar. After butting heads for months, they finally call a truce when Deacon's niece, whom he is newly raising, expresses an interest in visiting the bookstore. After seeing how comfortable his niece is around Alice, Deacon starts to rely on her for guidance, and Alice sees that Deacon's crusty exterior is just a shield from a lifetime of grief. This was a sweet progression of enemies to maybe not quite friends to lovers, though it did give me slight pause that Alice was closer in age to 14 year old Lola than 35 year old Deacon. I did like seeing therapy being normalized, especially for a man, and that Deacon was mostly receptive to suggestions on how to handle his situation and was quick to apologize when he was hurtful. I enjoyed this one better than the first because of the enemies to lovers banter, but I'm looking most forward to the next book, featuring black cat personality Emma, who is hilariously relatable to me.
🩷 Thank you Marion De Ré for sending me a copy of The Enemy Plot to review.
October 18, 2024
Ooooh a romance set in a bookstore, I am totally in love with that idea already. The bookshop is called No Shelf Control which is totally awesome, and it was opened by three bookish friends who met on Bookstagram. Throw in a bucket load of tropes and I am head over heels for this book from the start.
The first time Alice meets Deacon, he tells her audiobooks aren’t reading. It’s a really good job he’s such a sweet guy under all that gruff and grumpy exterior because that’s a red flag if ever I heard one. Fortunately, Deacon is an extremely loveable and swoon-worthy hero. Of course, he’s flawed (as well as his audiobook error), he’s grieving his sister and trying to take care of his teenage niece singlehandedly. His niece, Lola, misses her mum desperately but also wants more freedom than Deacon is giving her. They find a common ground when Deacon allows her to visit the bookshop next door alone, striking up a friendship with Alice, which means Deacon is forced to spend more time getting to know Alice, and realises she’s not just his irritating neighbour but that he is incredibly attracted to her.
Alice is wonderful in how she interacts with Lola. She understands the pain of losing a mother as she herself lost hers so she helps Lola try and cope with her emotions. She helps Lola and Deacon try and find common ground, to help them get to know each other better and therefore understand each other more.
Deacon was trapped by his guilt over his loved ones dying. His mother, his grandmother and his sister and he is afraid something will happen to Lola because of him, it makes him overprotective but I love how he learns to manage his feelings with the help of Alice (and his therapist)
I have to say the bookshop date he takes her on is the best idea ever and I am so doing this with my wife and fellow book lover, Lauren.
The first time Alice meets Deacon, he tells her audiobooks aren’t reading. It’s a really good job he’s such a sweet guy under all that gruff and grumpy exterior because that’s a red flag if ever I heard one. Fortunately, Deacon is an extremely loveable and swoon-worthy hero. Of course, he’s flawed (as well as his audiobook error), he’s grieving his sister and trying to take care of his teenage niece singlehandedly. His niece, Lola, misses her mum desperately but also wants more freedom than Deacon is giving her. They find a common ground when Deacon allows her to visit the bookshop next door alone, striking up a friendship with Alice, which means Deacon is forced to spend more time getting to know Alice, and realises she’s not just his irritating neighbour but that he is incredibly attracted to her.
Alice is wonderful in how she interacts with Lola. She understands the pain of losing a mother as she herself lost hers so she helps Lola try and cope with her emotions. She helps Lola and Deacon try and find common ground, to help them get to know each other better and therefore understand each other more.
Deacon was trapped by his guilt over his loved ones dying. His mother, his grandmother and his sister and he is afraid something will happen to Lola because of him, it makes him overprotective but I love how he learns to manage his feelings with the help of Alice (and his therapist)
I have to say the bookshop date he takes her on is the best idea ever and I am so doing this with my wife and fellow book lover, Lauren.
October 14, 2024
The Enemy Plot is the second book in the One More Chapter series. While I think this could be enjoyed just fine as a standalone, I do think you'll have a better understanding of the friendship dynamic if you've read the previous book first.
There's just something about a grump that will absolutely win me over every time... and Deacon was certainly no exception! Yes, he definitely has that grumpy exterior, but as we learn more about his history, it's not hard to see why. While he and Alice butted heads at the beginning (with some wonderful banter that I adored!), I loved seeing how she softened him up as they really got to know each other. He had a cinnamon roll center hiding behind that gruffer exterior. Their chemistry was as wonderful as their banter! Lola was such a sweet addition to their story, and I definitely loved the way the three of them felt like a family by the end. Their story was the perfect blend of humor and sweet moments, and I adored it all! And that first date!? Oh yes, Deacon might just be every book girl's dream guy! Like book one, this one really feels like such a love letter to Bookstagram, and I loved seeing some familiar names pop up throughout. I cannot wait for the next book!
The Enemy Plot is a closed-door romance with kisses only. There is a bit of minor language throughout.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
There's just something about a grump that will absolutely win me over every time... and Deacon was certainly no exception! Yes, he definitely has that grumpy exterior, but as we learn more about his history, it's not hard to see why. While he and Alice butted heads at the beginning (with some wonderful banter that I adored!), I loved seeing how she softened him up as they really got to know each other. He had a cinnamon roll center hiding behind that gruffer exterior. Their chemistry was as wonderful as their banter! Lola was such a sweet addition to their story, and I definitely loved the way the three of them felt like a family by the end. Their story was the perfect blend of humor and sweet moments, and I adored it all! And that first date!? Oh yes, Deacon might just be every book girl's dream guy! Like book one, this one really feels like such a love letter to Bookstagram, and I loved seeing some familiar names pop up throughout. I cannot wait for the next book!
The Enemy Plot is a closed-door romance with kisses only. There is a bit of minor language throughout.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 23, 2024
This is a wholesome love letter to all of the romance readers and I couldn’t get enough! While this is a second in a series; I never felt lost or confused but could definitely tell there were some Easter eggs I would have understood better had I read the first book. This contains all of my favourite tropes; especially that of grumpy sunshine. And yes I enjoy a lot of tropes but no it doesn’t get overwhelming at all. The characters are a delight (even when one is being grumpy) and overall this book is a fun easy read that reminds you of a warm hug. Highly recommend.
October 10, 2024
Wow Marion de re just has such a way with words. This is Alice and Decon story. decon didn’t really feel like the classic grumpy at first but he eventually convinced me. This story is one of healing and humor, vulnerability.really great story
October 10, 2024
A witty, charming, and touching story with wonderful characters, great character development, and a gloriously romantic scavenger hunt.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
October 14, 2024
Im pretty sure this is my new favorite book from this author!!
October 21, 2024
I really loved all the tropes of this book. It has all the tropes I would wanted to see in this book. I can hear you thinking, are all those tropes not a bit overwhelming? No, not at all. Marion de Re manages to create a well-balanced romance in which he falls first. Marion de Ré has yet again written a romance to swoon over.
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
September 30, 2024
Sometimes you wonder how many enemies to lovers books are there and how the author can possibly make this one different, well….The enemy Plot is such a well written cute story! It has great characters, healing stories, grand gestures and it’s full of great ideas to have fun with friends or your partner. I honestly loved the book! And the extended epilogue was perfect.
One more chapter series tells the story of best friends Hayley, Alice and Emma. The enemy plot is Alice and Deacon’s story. Alice is this charming girl who loves romcom books and is living her dream by owning a bookstore with her two best friends. Deacon is the new grumpy next door neighbor who can seem to figure out how to live and let live. Both had experienced family losses that shaped them, together they will try to navigate their differences and hopefully find connections on the way.
What I appreciate most about Marion De Ré’s books, that I read so far, is that the main characters are well balanced. There is no similar behaviors or personalities repeated in the characters represented in her books. Their stories are always unique, the characters around them have depth and the books are filled with descriptions and life details that make them feel real to you.
Thanks to the author for this ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
@marionderewrites
@theenemyplotbook
One more chapter series tells the story of best friends Hayley, Alice and Emma. The enemy plot is Alice and Deacon’s story. Alice is this charming girl who loves romcom books and is living her dream by owning a bookstore with her two best friends. Deacon is the new grumpy next door neighbor who can seem to figure out how to live and let live. Both had experienced family losses that shaped them, together they will try to navigate their differences and hopefully find connections on the way.
What I appreciate most about Marion De Ré’s books, that I read so far, is that the main characters are well balanced. There is no similar behaviors or personalities repeated in the characters represented in her books. Their stories are always unique, the characters around them have depth and the books are filled with descriptions and life details that make them feel real to you.
Thanks to the author for this ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
@marionderewrites
@theenemyplotbook
November 2, 2024
Perfectly sublime reading .Marion De Re has done a Stirling job with this great book . A grumpy neighbour and a bookstore owner .Deacon Collier has smouldering looks as Alice looks at him over her books . She thought he was an ass and a bore before but when he attacks audio as not real books . She cares not for his looks . She’s in outrage. How dare he , she’d sling him out on his ear if it wasn’t for his grieving niece Lola a fellow book lover who she holds dear, who she gives guidance with everything books and more , even helps her French homework . As time goes by though she tolerates Deacon and he’s not so bad , he treats his niece like he’s her dad, He’s hard on the outside but once you see in , he’s all soft and gooey and ooh yea hot and sin. …ooh where did this come from ? Well you see , there’s more to Deacon than you think. And when all her dates of late stink, he offers to take her out and it’s far out good. The ultimate book lover’s dream all topped off with cherries and cream. It’s the perfect date that she certainly doesn’t hate , but what of him, I hear you ask. A Prince Charming or an heartbreaker who is disarming? He has issues to sort but it’s not a firm no , so can this give this relationship thing a go? He’s the bar owner who lives next door but since she’s got to know him , he’s so much more. He feels for her like he has no other , could she be his ultimate lover? He has his niece to consider of course , since the death of his sister he’s been morose. But this ray of sunshine who screams be mine is too divine to pass up , she’s good for his niece , being so supporting. This alone makes his grumpy heart zing. Marion de re ,I thought Tenacious Act was good but this really is the business too. I love your storytelling and your compelling characters who stick in your heart and mind like glue. This is what you do, and I take thanks from heaven for finding you and your great books with writing,so inviting and inspiring,engaging too. A writing style of your own, no matter the genre or zone.
October 16, 2024
Oh my stars. I am in love with this book and these characters even more than ever in the second installment of this series. This book had so many enjoyable tropes including, but not limited to, enemies to lovers, sunshiny vs. grumpy, single dad and so many more.
One More Chapter is a business built on love between three bbf (book best friends), Alice, Haley and Emma. This book store sounds so dreamy in every way. Their calm, quiet bookstore is no longer so quiet when a roguish man moves next door to build his bar. Deacon Collier is a grump with a capital G. He and Alice go at it on a daily basis regarding his choice of volume for his music which shatters her quiet. It was really funny to see these two bicker, as it was more like barn burning flirting, whether either one wanted to admit it or not. The fiery chemistry was evident, even though at first it was anger instead of love.
Once Alice meets his niece, Lola, things start to change between them as she starts to see a side of him that is the mushy heart underneath all that bluster. Deacon is definitely grumpy, but as I learned more about his past, I understood the grumpiness was a coping mechanism. Alice is a complete delight in every way possible with her passion for life and all things bookish. I loved her brooches. I want to jump into this book with these characters and live for a little while.
This book had some swoony moments from a bookish date, to some sad moments as you learn more about Deacon and Lola, to the funny moments that this author plays out so well. Scenes that include Mr. Darcy the wandering cat to Alice's abject fear of spiders (burn the building down kind of fear) left me laughing out loud. It was a delight in every way possible in a good romcom. I would gladly give this one ten stars if I could.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One More Chapter is a business built on love between three bbf (book best friends), Alice, Haley and Emma. This book store sounds so dreamy in every way. Their calm, quiet bookstore is no longer so quiet when a roguish man moves next door to build his bar. Deacon Collier is a grump with a capital G. He and Alice go at it on a daily basis regarding his choice of volume for his music which shatters her quiet. It was really funny to see these two bicker, as it was more like barn burning flirting, whether either one wanted to admit it or not. The fiery chemistry was evident, even though at first it was anger instead of love.
Once Alice meets his niece, Lola, things start to change between them as she starts to see a side of him that is the mushy heart underneath all that bluster. Deacon is definitely grumpy, but as I learned more about his past, I understood the grumpiness was a coping mechanism. Alice is a complete delight in every way possible with her passion for life and all things bookish. I loved her brooches. I want to jump into this book with these characters and live for a little while.
This book had some swoony moments from a bookish date, to some sad moments as you learn more about Deacon and Lola, to the funny moments that this author plays out so well. Scenes that include Mr. Darcy the wandering cat to Alice's abject fear of spiders (burn the building down kind of fear) left me laughing out loud. It was a delight in every way possible in a good romcom. I would gladly give this one ten stars if I could.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2024
Before I begin, I would like to thank Marion De Ré for allowing me to read her upcoming book, The Enemy Plot, which is part of the One More Chapter Series and will be available on Amazon on October 17th, 2024.
A handsome young man went into Alice’s bookstore and asked to buy books. He should have been the prince of her dreams. Instead, the man is Deacon Collier, her grumpy neighbor that blasts music too loud and thinks that audiobooks shouldn’t count as reading. But after spending time with his niece Lola, and soon the girl is asking Alice for book recommendations, help with French homework, and advice, and then she’s aching for a life with the girl and her uncle. However, Deacon has a lot of things to figure out, and she’s unsure whether any chance with him will lead anywhere other than heartbreak.
I absolutely loved this book. You have Alice, a strong, beautiful, romantic Frenchwoman that loves reading romance books and spending time with her friends. You have Deacon, a handsome young man that is trying to balance grief, raising his niece, and opening the bar next door. I enjoyed seeing familiar characters from Tenacious Act (the previous book in this series), and the banter between the two characters was fantastic. I cheered for Alice and Deacon as they grew throughout the story, and basically adopted all of them including Lola. Alice is a woman after my own heart (romance readers unite), and each book of Marion De Ré’s is an absolute delight. Overall, if you like Bookstagram, discussion of tropes, bookstores, great friend and family dynamics, fantastic humor, single guardian small-town sweet romance with low amounts of spice, then I would highly recommend this book. Here’s the link for more information: Amazon.com: The Enemy Plot: A Sweet Grumpy Sunshine Romcom (One More Chapter Book 2) eBook : De Ré, Marion: Kindle Store
A handsome young man went into Alice’s bookstore and asked to buy books. He should have been the prince of her dreams. Instead, the man is Deacon Collier, her grumpy neighbor that blasts music too loud and thinks that audiobooks shouldn’t count as reading. But after spending time with his niece Lola, and soon the girl is asking Alice for book recommendations, help with French homework, and advice, and then she’s aching for a life with the girl and her uncle. However, Deacon has a lot of things to figure out, and she’s unsure whether any chance with him will lead anywhere other than heartbreak.
I absolutely loved this book. You have Alice, a strong, beautiful, romantic Frenchwoman that loves reading romance books and spending time with her friends. You have Deacon, a handsome young man that is trying to balance grief, raising his niece, and opening the bar next door. I enjoyed seeing familiar characters from Tenacious Act (the previous book in this series), and the banter between the two characters was fantastic. I cheered for Alice and Deacon as they grew throughout the story, and basically adopted all of them including Lola. Alice is a woman after my own heart (romance readers unite), and each book of Marion De Ré’s is an absolute delight. Overall, if you like Bookstagram, discussion of tropes, bookstores, great friend and family dynamics, fantastic humor, single guardian small-town sweet romance with low amounts of spice, then I would highly recommend this book. Here’s the link for more information: Amazon.com: The Enemy Plot: A Sweet Grumpy Sunshine Romcom (One More Chapter Book 2) eBook : De Ré, Marion: Kindle Store
October 9, 2024
I have been eagerly waiting for this book especially because I adored the first book in the series. The Enemy Plot is the second book in Marion De Re’s One More Chapter series. I just love the title and the setting of these books, it is so cool!
Alice and Deacon definitely had a spark and chemistry. They both had a lot that ticked the other person off. It was interesting to read about them falling in love and seeing how they were able to connect. They had their differences, but they also cared deeply for each other.
Deacon had a lot of growing to do throughout the book as he tried to figure out what he wanted in life. He was struggling to recover after the death of his sister and figure out how to raise his niece. I felt for him as he tried to make sense of his new world. It was sweet to read about him opening up to Alice and seeing that he could be happy in life.
Alice was a lot of fun! I liked her spunk and she strove to be herself. She wasn’t afraid to spar with Deacon but she could also tell when he was hurting. Alice was searching for love but couldn’t seem to find the one with the spark. It was cool to see her falling for Deacon and seeing the way that they connected. She had to figure out if she was willing to risk her heart to be with Deacon.
I enjoyed this book and getting to see old characters again! Deacon’s niece was sweet but struggling, I love how she connected with Alice. I am super excited for the next book. This was a fun book and I would recommend it to those who enjoy enemies to lovers, rom-coms. The Enemy Plot is a closed door romantic comedy.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Alice and Deacon definitely had a spark and chemistry. They both had a lot that ticked the other person off. It was interesting to read about them falling in love and seeing how they were able to connect. They had their differences, but they also cared deeply for each other.
Deacon had a lot of growing to do throughout the book as he tried to figure out what he wanted in life. He was struggling to recover after the death of his sister and figure out how to raise his niece. I felt for him as he tried to make sense of his new world. It was sweet to read about him opening up to Alice and seeing that he could be happy in life.
Alice was a lot of fun! I liked her spunk and she strove to be herself. She wasn’t afraid to spar with Deacon but she could also tell when he was hurting. Alice was searching for love but couldn’t seem to find the one with the spark. It was cool to see her falling for Deacon and seeing the way that they connected. She had to figure out if she was willing to risk her heart to be with Deacon.
I enjoyed this book and getting to see old characters again! Deacon’s niece was sweet but struggling, I love how she connected with Alice. I am super excited for the next book. This was a fun book and I would recommend it to those who enjoy enemies to lovers, rom-coms. The Enemy Plot is a closed door romantic comedy.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
October 9, 2024
Alice is a people person. Deacon is a grump. They live and work next door to each other, so encounters are frequent and often devolve into arguments. Still, you never know what someone is dealing with in their life until you actually talk to them.
One of many things that I liked about this story was the positive representation of therapy. Deacon has sole custody of his niece, Lola, after her mother (his sister) passed away from an illness. Neither of them are dealing with their thoughts and feelings very well, and add in that Lola is thirteen…well, you’ve got yourselves a situation that definitely needs therapy. I truly wish that more romances, or even just fiction in general, would jump on this train and normalize therapy. If something’s wrong with your body, you go to the doctor. The same thing should happen when something’s wrong with your head. Okay, jumping off my soapbox now.
I really enjoyed the banter between Alice and Deacon, once they started warming up to each other. Turns out they had more in common than they thought, which is why I always say that first impressions are often wrong—again, because you don’t have context of what that person may be going through.
I also loved that Alice and her friends Hayley and Emma own and run a bookstore. It truly sounds like a place I’d love to hang out in, especially for cat petting. (Mr. Darcy, I’m coming for your cute little kitty heart!)
I know that grumpy/sunshine is a well-worn trope, but frankly, I love to see the grump warming up against his (or her) will. And this book was no exception. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I was rooting for the characters, the dialogue was great, and I could envision the places the author described. A very satisfying read!
One of many things that I liked about this story was the positive representation of therapy. Deacon has sole custody of his niece, Lola, after her mother (his sister) passed away from an illness. Neither of them are dealing with their thoughts and feelings very well, and add in that Lola is thirteen…well, you’ve got yourselves a situation that definitely needs therapy. I truly wish that more romances, or even just fiction in general, would jump on this train and normalize therapy. If something’s wrong with your body, you go to the doctor. The same thing should happen when something’s wrong with your head. Okay, jumping off my soapbox now.
I really enjoyed the banter between Alice and Deacon, once they started warming up to each other. Turns out they had more in common than they thought, which is why I always say that first impressions are often wrong—again, because you don’t have context of what that person may be going through.
I also loved that Alice and her friends Hayley and Emma own and run a bookstore. It truly sounds like a place I’d love to hang out in, especially for cat petting. (Mr. Darcy, I’m coming for your cute little kitty heart!)
I know that grumpy/sunshine is a well-worn trope, but frankly, I love to see the grump warming up against his (or her) will. And this book was no exception. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I was rooting for the characters, the dialogue was great, and I could envision the places the author described. A very satisfying read!
November 30, 2024
ARC Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Deacon Collier was blindsided by the unexpected loss of his sister. After gaining sole custody of his teenage niece, he decided the path toward healing was moving to a new city and apartment. Hoping the change of scenery would facilitate new memories and help bond them as a family, he quickly discovers he is unequipped to care for another human being. Luckily, he lives next door to a bookstore and kind woman willing to lend a hand. Will he survive the transition, or will he lose everything in the process?
Marion De Re wrote, The Enemy Plot. This is the second book in the One More Chapter Series with a third book currently in production. The series follows three female best friends; Hailey, Alice, and Emma as they own and operate a closed door romance bookshop. While the three women couldn’t be more different, their journeys to love are closely tied to their business. Readers can read the series as a whole or individually as standalones. At the time of posting this review, I have yet to read The Tenacious Act, but it did not impede my adoration for this story. In fact, I cannot wait to go back and read book one while I anxiously await book three!
I am so grateful to have discovered Marion De Re on Bookstagram as her writing falls perfectly in alignment with my reading preferences. She beautifully pens the best love stories while remaining closed door, utilizes the most popular tropes of the time, and has a distinct style and voice. I dare anyone who reads it to tell me otherwise!
If I haven’t won you over yet, this book also features:
-Enemies to More
-Grumpy/ Sunshine
-French FMC
-Ideal First Date
-Cozy bookstore setting
Special thanks to Netgalley and Marion De Re for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Deacon Collier was blindsided by the unexpected loss of his sister. After gaining sole custody of his teenage niece, he decided the path toward healing was moving to a new city and apartment. Hoping the change of scenery would facilitate new memories and help bond them as a family, he quickly discovers he is unequipped to care for another human being. Luckily, he lives next door to a bookstore and kind woman willing to lend a hand. Will he survive the transition, or will he lose everything in the process?
Marion De Re wrote, The Enemy Plot. This is the second book in the One More Chapter Series with a third book currently in production. The series follows three female best friends; Hailey, Alice, and Emma as they own and operate a closed door romance bookshop. While the three women couldn’t be more different, their journeys to love are closely tied to their business. Readers can read the series as a whole or individually as standalones. At the time of posting this review, I have yet to read The Tenacious Act, but it did not impede my adoration for this story. In fact, I cannot wait to go back and read book one while I anxiously await book three!
I am so grateful to have discovered Marion De Re on Bookstagram as her writing falls perfectly in alignment with my reading preferences. She beautifully pens the best love stories while remaining closed door, utilizes the most popular tropes of the time, and has a distinct style and voice. I dare anyone who reads it to tell me otherwise!
If I haven’t won you over yet, this book also features:
-Enemies to More
-Grumpy/ Sunshine
-French FMC
-Ideal First Date
-Cozy bookstore setting
Special thanks to Netgalley and Marion De Re for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 16, 2024
Favorite Quotes: “Cheery people are exasperating.” - Deacon
“What on earth is Bookstagram? Is it some kind of cult? I wouldn’t put it past these people. It’s always the quiet ones.” - Deacon
Sign for bookstore: “Sorry we’re reading!” For closed and “Come in, let’s read!” For open.
“The beauty of reading - you can find healing in the pages of any book.” - Alice
“My eyes narrow on the shape, and my worst fear comes true. There is a spider in my bookstore. A very big, unwelcome spider.” - Alice
“Alice stops dead in her tracks. ‘We’re going to a bookstore?’ A confident smile builds on my lips. ‘Yes.’ She stares at the building. ‘For our date.’ ‘Yes,’ I repeat, this time, with a little less confidence. ‘I planned a scavenger hunt, and the loser buys dinner. Winners choice.’” - Alice & Deacons first date.
“He picked a romcom that I’ve already read by Liz Fox.” - Alice (with my name in the book as a romcom author!!)
I loved every minute of this book!! I finished it in 2 days because I just couldn’t stop reading it! I always know I’m reading a good book when, in the first few pages, I’m already laughing! This book even had a character with my name!! This book literally had everything I love, enemy’s to lovers, mental health talk, witty humor and swoon worthy MMC. I loved watching the relationship build between Alice and Deacon and them finding their happily ever after!! I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out in January! Emma is one of my favorite characters because of her grumpiness and always being cautious of everything and everyone! I recommend reading this series for sure!! The Enemy Plot and The Tenacious Act are out now on Amazon!
“What on earth is Bookstagram? Is it some kind of cult? I wouldn’t put it past these people. It’s always the quiet ones.” - Deacon
Sign for bookstore: “Sorry we’re reading!” For closed and “Come in, let’s read!” For open.
“The beauty of reading - you can find healing in the pages of any book.” - Alice
“My eyes narrow on the shape, and my worst fear comes true. There is a spider in my bookstore. A very big, unwelcome spider.” - Alice
“Alice stops dead in her tracks. ‘We’re going to a bookstore?’ A confident smile builds on my lips. ‘Yes.’ She stares at the building. ‘For our date.’ ‘Yes,’ I repeat, this time, with a little less confidence. ‘I planned a scavenger hunt, and the loser buys dinner. Winners choice.’” - Alice & Deacons first date.
“He picked a romcom that I’ve already read by Liz Fox.” - Alice (with my name in the book as a romcom author!!)
I loved every minute of this book!! I finished it in 2 days because I just couldn’t stop reading it! I always know I’m reading a good book when, in the first few pages, I’m already laughing! This book even had a character with my name!! This book literally had everything I love, enemy’s to lovers, mental health talk, witty humor and swoon worthy MMC. I loved watching the relationship build between Alice and Deacon and them finding their happily ever after!! I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out in January! Emma is one of my favorite characters because of her grumpiness and always being cautious of everything and everyone! I recommend reading this series for sure!! The Enemy Plot and The Tenacious Act are out now on Amazon!
October 18, 2024
‘Things we lose have a way of coming back to us
in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’
-The Enemy Plot, is delightful enemies to lovers romcom between a grumpy layered bar owner and a hopeless romantic bookstore owner. It is the second book in the One More Chapter series. This quick-paced story is about a bookish girl navigating her own real life romance drama in the hopes of finding her own happily there after!
“While reading romance is the best escape there is, the real deal is so much better.”
-If you enjoy: enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, neighbors, an age gap, bookish girl, a protective hero, a bookish scavenger hunt, sizzling chemistry, witty banter, delightful imagery and details, then you will thoroughly enjoy this fun story set in the city scene.
☺️📚✔️
-This is lighthearted story that also touches on feelings of the heart. It is story that gives a great shout out to Bookstagram. I love that it is a story of love, healing, and the power of books to bring people together!🩷
“Love is complicated and full of obstacles, but if there’s one thing I know, it’s that the relationships that survive them are the ones that endure.”
#theenemyplot
#mariedere
#allaboutthebestreads
“That’s the beauty of reading. You can find healing in the pages of any book.”
•Content: some mild (bible swears), Loss of family members in the past, overcoming grief.
“Some circumstances are out of our control.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Together, I believe we can find true happiness.”
in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’
-The Enemy Plot, is delightful enemies to lovers romcom between a grumpy layered bar owner and a hopeless romantic bookstore owner. It is the second book in the One More Chapter series. This quick-paced story is about a bookish girl navigating her own real life romance drama in the hopes of finding her own happily there after!
“While reading romance is the best escape there is, the real deal is so much better.”
-If you enjoy: enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, neighbors, an age gap, bookish girl, a protective hero, a bookish scavenger hunt, sizzling chemistry, witty banter, delightful imagery and details, then you will thoroughly enjoy this fun story set in the city scene.
☺️📚✔️
-This is lighthearted story that also touches on feelings of the heart. It is story that gives a great shout out to Bookstagram. I love that it is a story of love, healing, and the power of books to bring people together!🩷
“Love is complicated and full of obstacles, but if there’s one thing I know, it’s that the relationships that survive them are the ones that endure.”
#theenemyplot
#mariedere
#allaboutthebestreads
“That’s the beauty of reading. You can find healing in the pages of any book.”
•Content: some mild (bible swears), Loss of family members in the past, overcoming grief.
“Some circumstances are out of our control.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Together, I believe we can find true happiness.”
October 17, 2024
📚ARC Review📚
The Enemy Plot⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
All Alice wants to do is run the bookstore with her two best friends and on her time off, listen to her audiobooks. She’s a romance reader but knows that only the best men are that made of fiction. Unfortunately, listening to her book has became harder to do since her neighbor, Deacon, moved in. He blast his music all times of the day, interrupting her.
Deacon has just moved to the City from the countryside and isn’t a fan of it. However, this is the home of his niece and after his sisters death, staying there would be the best thing for her. So he bought a bar and is trying to get it started while having to navigate through being a single father figure now. Going through the motions, the only time he has any feelings is when he makes his neighbor mad and she comes over to complain to him. There’s something about her that he just can’t kept away.
This is the second book in the One More Chapter series but can be read as a standalone. I loved all the characters in this book! We get to see the original three ladies again, but this is Alice’s story. I loved the grumpy but yet sweet Deacon. Alice is such a fun, bright personality and perfect for him, to bring more sunshine into his life. I liked seeing their relationship and how they navigated it around Lola, Deacon’s niece. I also enjoyed that this was a closed door romance with a dual point of view. I can’t wait to read Emma’s story next!
This book launched today so be sure to check it out! Thank you to Marion for my advanced readers copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
The Enemy Plot⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
All Alice wants to do is run the bookstore with her two best friends and on her time off, listen to her audiobooks. She’s a romance reader but knows that only the best men are that made of fiction. Unfortunately, listening to her book has became harder to do since her neighbor, Deacon, moved in. He blast his music all times of the day, interrupting her.
Deacon has just moved to the City from the countryside and isn’t a fan of it. However, this is the home of his niece and after his sisters death, staying there would be the best thing for her. So he bought a bar and is trying to get it started while having to navigate through being a single father figure now. Going through the motions, the only time he has any feelings is when he makes his neighbor mad and she comes over to complain to him. There’s something about her that he just can’t kept away.
This is the second book in the One More Chapter series but can be read as a standalone. I loved all the characters in this book! We get to see the original three ladies again, but this is Alice’s story. I loved the grumpy but yet sweet Deacon. Alice is such a fun, bright personality and perfect for him, to bring more sunshine into his life. I liked seeing their relationship and how they navigated it around Lola, Deacon’s niece. I also enjoyed that this was a closed door romance with a dual point of view. I can’t wait to read Emma’s story next!
This book launched today so be sure to check it out! Thank you to Marion for my advanced readers copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
November 3, 2024
I love books that celebrate other books, especially when they celebrate my favorite genre—romance. Marion De Re celebrates her love for all things romance in her book The Enemy Plot. It was so good and made my romance loving heart so happy.
The Enemy Plot focuses on Alice, a clean romance bookstore owner, and Deacon, her grumpy next door neighbor. As Alice befriends Lola, Deacon’s 13 year old niece, she starts to spend more time with him and to question her opinion of her grumpy neighbor. The story is full of friendship, love, grief, hope, romance, and heart.
Things to love:
-enemies to lovers
-all things bookish
-grumpy MMC
-sassy, book loving FMC
-the date IYKYK
-Deacon’s recording (you need to read to experience this sweetness)
I adored Alice. She was so kind and positive. I loved how she approached life with so much hope. She and her bookstore co-owner best friends are my people. I loved how much they loved romance books. It was so fun to read about a bookstore that focused on clean romance book. I wish there was one near me. I would go all the time.
Deacon was a grumpy dream. His relationship with his niece was so sweet, especially how awkward he was about it. His character arc was so well-done and so sweet. I loved how Alice and Lola both played a part in his arc.
This book was a joy to read. From the references to romance books to the supporting characters to the swoony moments, I felt like this book was Marion’s thank you to all sweet romance readers. It was so good—just thinking about Deacon and Alice makes me smile.
The Enemy Plot focuses on Alice, a clean romance bookstore owner, and Deacon, her grumpy next door neighbor. As Alice befriends Lola, Deacon’s 13 year old niece, she starts to spend more time with him and to question her opinion of her grumpy neighbor. The story is full of friendship, love, grief, hope, romance, and heart.
Things to love:
-enemies to lovers
-all things bookish
-grumpy MMC
-sassy, book loving FMC
-the date IYKYK
-Deacon’s recording (you need to read to experience this sweetness)
I adored Alice. She was so kind and positive. I loved how she approached life with so much hope. She and her bookstore co-owner best friends are my people. I loved how much they loved romance books. It was so fun to read about a bookstore that focused on clean romance book. I wish there was one near me. I would go all the time.
Deacon was a grumpy dream. His relationship with his niece was so sweet, especially how awkward he was about it. His character arc was so well-done and so sweet. I loved how Alice and Lola both played a part in his arc.
This book was a joy to read. From the references to romance books to the supporting characters to the swoony moments, I felt like this book was Marion’s thank you to all sweet romance readers. It was so good—just thinking about Deacon and Alice makes me smile.
November 20, 2024
She’s searching for Prince Charming, but can a grumpy neighbor rewrite her love story?
My dream came true.
A man walked into my bookstore asking to buy some books. As a hopeless romantic who’s been kissing plenty of grenouilles, I thought I might finally meet my prince charming.
Except it wasn’t Prince Charming—it was Deacon Collier, my neighbor and my personal nemesis.
Despite his smoldering looks and a narrator-worthy voice, he seems determined to get on my last nerve.
And when he tells me audiobooks don’t count as reading, I see red. Deacon has secured a top spot on my enemy list, and I’m not about to let him win.
But then there’s Lola, his grieving teenage niece with a serious book addiction. How can I turn my back on a fellow bookworm who needs guidance? So, I give her book recommendations, help with her French homework, and strive to be the role model she desperately needs.
The more time I spend with Lola and Deacon, the more I see past his gruff exterior to the sweet, cinnamon roll hidden underneath.
And when I come back defeated from yet another date, Deacon takes me on the ultimate bookish lover date, and I have no choice but to fall for him. Hard.
But there’s a catch: Deacon has personal issues to sort out and might not be ready for a serious relationship.
Could he be the prince I’ve been searching for, or will he end up shattering my heart? This was a quick read for me. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author and I'm voluntarily leaving an review.
My dream came true.
A man walked into my bookstore asking to buy some books. As a hopeless romantic who’s been kissing plenty of grenouilles, I thought I might finally meet my prince charming.
Except it wasn’t Prince Charming—it was Deacon Collier, my neighbor and my personal nemesis.
Despite his smoldering looks and a narrator-worthy voice, he seems determined to get on my last nerve.
And when he tells me audiobooks don’t count as reading, I see red. Deacon has secured a top spot on my enemy list, and I’m not about to let him win.
But then there’s Lola, his grieving teenage niece with a serious book addiction. How can I turn my back on a fellow bookworm who needs guidance? So, I give her book recommendations, help with her French homework, and strive to be the role model she desperately needs.
The more time I spend with Lola and Deacon, the more I see past his gruff exterior to the sweet, cinnamon roll hidden underneath.
And when I come back defeated from yet another date, Deacon takes me on the ultimate bookish lover date, and I have no choice but to fall for him. Hard.
But there’s a catch: Deacon has personal issues to sort out and might not be ready for a serious relationship.
Could he be the prince I’ve been searching for, or will he end up shattering my heart? This was a quick read for me. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author and I'm voluntarily leaving an review.
October 14, 2024
What a perfect story Marion has done it again with this grumpy/sunshine story. Alice loves running the book store with her friends. Mind you she loves books full stop, ok maybe audiobooks it's still a book. There's one obstacle that just won't go away and that's the new owner of the bar next-door. He plays his music so loud that I'm surprised the walls are still standing. How Mr. Darcy likes sneaking in I've no idea, but he does. That man is so infuriating I've no idea how his daughter puts up with him. Deacon worries over everything, in fact he's a little ocd when it comes to safety, but you can't take anything for granted. He knows this first hand and he won't let it happen again. The woman next-door is his biggest distraction, she's constantly complaining if it's not hus music it's his mail or her cat that keeps sneaking in. But there's just something about her that has him doing this more to just hear her complain. I love this story so much and who doesn't love a grumpy man. Although I have to admit I'm not a fan of audiobooks but the my choice. The chemistry is undeniable from the first incident but neither what to see it. I loved the idea of the scavenger book hunt was a brilliant idea and I'd totally love to do it. This is a story you won't want to miss out on, so add it to your tbr list and sit back and enjoy ❤️☕️📖❤️
October 18, 2024
This is MY FAVORITE of favorites!! I don't know if it's because Alice (FMC) reminded me so much of myself (hopeless romantic, optimistic, book lover!) or if because Deacon (MMC) reminds me of my "grumpy" husband (struggles with grief, anxiety, and doesn't trust the world).
Favorite Quotes ❤️🔥
"What on earth is Bookstagram? Is it some kind of cult? I wouldn't put it past these people. It's always the quiet ones."
Chapter 5
"Alice," he says, his eyes searching mine.
"Okay," I breathe. "I'll go out with you."
My entire body warms as I speak those words, and the prospect of going on a date with Deacon is so much better than diving into even the coziest book. I freeze at that awful reality.
Please don't tell my friends I said that.
Chapter 19
This book is absolute perfection! It's a MUST READ if you want:
🎧 audiobook advocate! Alice LOVES audiobooks and totally is all of us swoony at the male voice!
📚 the most epic bookstore date scavenger hunt
😡 "Who did this to you?!"
💪 MMCs with MUSCLES!!! Oh boy!
💌 "handwritten" letters... trust me, the thought and act behind this is SO SWOONY
💋 kisses that unleash the "growls"
As you can see, everything about this book is going to make you squeal with delight! This is book 2 in her One More Chapter series which is a beautiful "love letter" to the bookstagram community. This is a 10/10 MUST READ!
Favorite Quotes ❤️🔥
"What on earth is Bookstagram? Is it some kind of cult? I wouldn't put it past these people. It's always the quiet ones."
Chapter 5
"Alice," he says, his eyes searching mine.
"Okay," I breathe. "I'll go out with you."
My entire body warms as I speak those words, and the prospect of going on a date with Deacon is so much better than diving into even the coziest book. I freeze at that awful reality.
Please don't tell my friends I said that.
Chapter 19
This book is absolute perfection! It's a MUST READ if you want:
🎧 audiobook advocate! Alice LOVES audiobooks and totally is all of us swoony at the male voice!
📚 the most epic bookstore date scavenger hunt
😡 "Who did this to you?!"
💪 MMCs with MUSCLES!!! Oh boy!
💌 "handwritten" letters... trust me, the thought and act behind this is SO SWOONY
💋 kisses that unleash the "growls"
As you can see, everything about this book is going to make you squeal with delight! This is book 2 in her One More Chapter series which is a beautiful "love letter" to the bookstagram community. This is a 10/10 MUST READ!
October 27, 2024
Thankyou NetGalley for the free read.
My views on The Enemy Plot by Marion De Ré:
If you're in the mood for a feel-good, lighthearted romance, this novel might be for you. The story reads a bit like a Hallmark movie—predictable, sweet, and comforting. While it lacks surprises or deeper twists, its straightforward charm can be exactly what some readers are looking for: a harmless escape into a world of obvious romance and happy endings.
I did appreciate how the narrative alternated between the perspectives of the two main characters. This shift in viewpoint added some much-needed variety; whenever I grew frustrated with one character, the break in perspective provided just the right relief—and mixed it up a bit!
It’s an ideal pick for those who appreciate the simplicity of a cozy love story, especially when life calls for something warm and uncomplicated. The characters may not be particularly complex, and the plot might feel a little on-the-nose for the more cynical reader, but there's an undeniable appeal to its niceness. For romance fans or anyone seeking a break from darker tales, this book might be the perfect fit.
A note to add though: Killing a spider is NOT a hero move. Personally I’d see it S a dick move. Placing it safely back outside would’ve been better. I hate killing spiders.
My views on The Enemy Plot by Marion De Ré:
If you're in the mood for a feel-good, lighthearted romance, this novel might be for you. The story reads a bit like a Hallmark movie—predictable, sweet, and comforting. While it lacks surprises or deeper twists, its straightforward charm can be exactly what some readers are looking for: a harmless escape into a world of obvious romance and happy endings.
I did appreciate how the narrative alternated between the perspectives of the two main characters. This shift in viewpoint added some much-needed variety; whenever I grew frustrated with one character, the break in perspective provided just the right relief—and mixed it up a bit!
It’s an ideal pick for those who appreciate the simplicity of a cozy love story, especially when life calls for something warm and uncomplicated. The characters may not be particularly complex, and the plot might feel a little on-the-nose for the more cynical reader, but there's an undeniable appeal to its niceness. For romance fans or anyone seeking a break from darker tales, this book might be the perfect fit.
A note to add though: Killing a spider is NOT a hero move. Personally I’d see it S a dick move. Placing it safely back outside would’ve been better. I hate killing spiders.
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