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Alternate Endings
From the bestselling author of Recipe for Second Chances comes a smart, sexy, heartfelt romance about a single mother juggling home life and career who finds unexpected complications while in Ireland for work.
Beatrice Leal’s personal life is complicated between her divorce and her precocious six-year-old. But the job she loves is the one thing she counts on to be straightforward—that is, until her boss’s own divorce prompts a move from NYC back to Ireland.
Now Bea’s in Ireland twice a month for work. It’s wreaking havoc on the custody agreement she and her moody ex are sorting out while he lives downstairs in the brownstone they co-own. And to top it off, her company’s new CTO turns out to be the boy who once broke her heart Jack Sander.
It’s been twenty years since Bea and Jack saw each other. Their lives are both messy. So when they hook up one night in Ireland, they plan to just keep it a work fling that stays there. But the more time they spend together, the more Bea wonders if happiness might not always mean needing to have your life in order.
Beatrice Leal’s personal life is complicated between her divorce and her precocious six-year-old. But the job she loves is the one thing she counts on to be straightforward—that is, until her boss’s own divorce prompts a move from NYC back to Ireland.
Now Bea’s in Ireland twice a month for work. It’s wreaking havoc on the custody agreement she and her moody ex are sorting out while he lives downstairs in the brownstone they co-own. And to top it off, her company’s new CTO turns out to be the boy who once broke her heart Jack Sander.
It’s been twenty years since Bea and Jack saw each other. Their lives are both messy. So when they hook up one night in Ireland, they plan to just keep it a work fling that stays there. But the more time they spend together, the more Bea wonders if happiness might not always mean needing to have your life in order.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2024
About the author
Ali Rosen
5 books159 followersAli Rosen is a bestselling author of novels and cookbooks as well as the Emmy and James Beard Award nominated host of Potluck with Ali Rosen on NYC Life.
Her debut novel, Recipe for Second Chances was an instant Amazon Bestseller and was a Good Morning America, Book Bub and Library Journal fall pick. It will be followed by Alternate Endings in 2024. Her writing has been described by The Skimm as “a vacation between two covers” and New York Times Bestselling author Fern Michaels said she “couldn't turn the pages fast enough.”
Ali is also the author of three cookbooks including the bestselling 15 Minute Meals. She has been featured everywhere from The Today Show to The New York Times and has written for publications including Bon Appetit, Wine Enthusiast and New York Magazine.
She is originally from Charleston, SC but now lives in New York City with her husband, three kids and rescue dog. She can usually be found wandering the Union Square Greenmarket or curled up in a chair reading a romance novel.
When it comes to the books she loves to read, you might notice from Ali's Goodreads reading list that she pretty much only reads RomComs because they make the world a happier place.
Her debut novel, Recipe for Second Chances was an instant Amazon Bestseller and was a Good Morning America, Book Bub and Library Journal fall pick. It will be followed by Alternate Endings in 2024. Her writing has been described by The Skimm as “a vacation between two covers” and New York Times Bestselling author Fern Michaels said she “couldn't turn the pages fast enough.”
Ali is also the author of three cookbooks including the bestselling 15 Minute Meals. She has been featured everywhere from The Today Show to The New York Times and has written for publications including Bon Appetit, Wine Enthusiast and New York Magazine.
She is originally from Charleston, SC but now lives in New York City with her husband, three kids and rescue dog. She can usually be found wandering the Union Square Greenmarket or curled up in a chair reading a romance novel.
When it comes to the books she loves to read, you might notice from Ali's Goodreads reading list that she pretty much only reads RomComs because they make the world a happier place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
February 16, 2024
A big thank you to Montlake for granting me the opportunity to read an ARC of Alternate Endings, which is set to hit the shelves on May 7th, 2024.
I found the plot and characters of this romance novel intriguing. While the pace was a tad slower than my preference, I was still captivated by certain parts of the story. I formed a deep connection with Beatrice and Jack and found Bash to be an absolute delight. His character infused the story with humor and wit, adding tremendous value to the narrative. The author has done a fantastic job addressing important topics and creating genuine and authentic characters. The friendships depicted in the novel are simply unparalleled. Life can be unpredictable, and the unexpected people who come into our lives often teach us the most valuable lessons.
Although the ending was somewhat predictable, I felt content and uplifted. This is a good read, and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a heartwarming romance novel.
I would rate it a 3.5, but I'm rounding it down for consistency in my reviews.
I found the plot and characters of this romance novel intriguing. While the pace was a tad slower than my preference, I was still captivated by certain parts of the story. I formed a deep connection with Beatrice and Jack and found Bash to be an absolute delight. His character infused the story with humor and wit, adding tremendous value to the narrative. The author has done a fantastic job addressing important topics and creating genuine and authentic characters. The friendships depicted in the novel are simply unparalleled. Life can be unpredictable, and the unexpected people who come into our lives often teach us the most valuable lessons.
Although the ending was somewhat predictable, I felt content and uplifted. This is a good read, and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a heartwarming romance novel.
I would rate it a 3.5, but I'm rounding it down for consistency in my reviews.
February 29, 2024
Ali writes the kind of characters I want to be friends with in real life, and gives them the beautiful love stories they deserve. Alternate Endings is the perfect blend of sharp wit, delicious tension, and breathless romance that will have you yearning from the onset and thinking of long after you've reached The End. A must read in 2024.
April 18, 2024
I wish I enjoyed this more. For one, it is partially set in Ireland. Woo! And two, because I really liked the intent behind this story. Beatrice was a great character! Struggling with the balance of her divorce, motherhood, and growing career, I was excited to see her find happiness.
But this was just too ... slow. It follows Beatrice as she travels back and forth from New York to Ireland for work (she's the VP of business development). While there she develops a friends-with-benefits situation with Jack, the newly appointed Chief Technology Officer—but more importantly, the man who broke her heart in high school twenty years ago.
There just wasn't a lot happening in this one. Beatrice would travel for work, have fun with Jack, return home, and repeat. I found myself wanting to skim over the repetitive scenarios. It's not that there wasn't any meaningful conversations between Beatrice and Jack, but overall the emotions and longing for a second-chance romance weren't quite there for me.
(heat level: a few open-door scenes, mild details)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
But this was just too ... slow. It follows Beatrice as she travels back and forth from New York to Ireland for work (she's the VP of business development). While there she develops a friends-with-benefits situation with Jack, the newly appointed Chief Technology Officer—but more importantly, the man who broke her heart in high school twenty years ago.
There just wasn't a lot happening in this one. Beatrice would travel for work, have fun with Jack, return home, and repeat. I found myself wanting to skim over the repetitive scenarios. It's not that there wasn't any meaningful conversations between Beatrice and Jack, but overall the emotions and longing for a second-chance romance weren't quite there for me.
(heat level: a few open-door scenes, mild details)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
March 17, 2024
Not enough depth in the stor
Very slow
Lacked chemistry with the main characters
Very slow
Lacked chemistry with the main characters
January 17, 2024
I received this book today and I read the entire thing in one setting. this was such a great second chance rom com book. if you're a fan of emily henry or abby jimenez books, you'll absolutely love this one!!
thank you to netgalley for sending me an arc 🫶🏻
thank you to netgalley for sending me an arc 🫶🏻
January 30, 2024
Book Review!✨
“Alternate Endings”
Written By: Ali Rosen
Published by: Montlake
Publication date: May 7, 2024
ARC provided by Netgalley
•••
Beatrice has had a not so great history with men. As a teenager, her heart was broken by her first love, Jack which she never really recovered from. Now as an adult, she’s going through a tough divorce with a man whom she married after only knowing him for a short time because she got pregnant. Luckily, Beatrice has the most adorable son named Bash, loves her job, has amazing friends and has learned to stay out of her soon to be ex husbands way to avoid conflict.
All is normal until her boss tells her she’s also getting a divorce, is moving to Ireland and their work team will have to travel back and forth every few months for meetings. Not only that, but her ex boyfriend Jack suddenly shows up in the office, as their new Chief Technology Officer. All of these changes knock Beatrice off her axis and are going to take her for a ride she didn’t even see coming.
•••
FINALLY a Rom-Com where the main characters learn to communicate. I feel like a common occurrence in romance is a constant miscommunication between characters. After seeing it in entirely too many books with little to no resolution to the problem at hand in any of them, I am pleased to read something with substance that gets to the root of the problem.
Honestly, I LOVED this book. I loved the characters, I loved the back stories and the build up. I enjoyed the real life issues as a single mom trying to find her way in the world. And especially the new found ability to be a bad ass woman in the work place. SLOW CLAP for Ali Rosen. You nailed it.
Thank you SO much to Ali, Montlake and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC! It was fantastic.
1- Characters: 10
2- Atmosphere/Setting: 10
3- Writing Style: 10
4- Plot: 10
5- Intrigue: 8
6- Logic/Relationships: 9
7- Enjoyment: 10
Total Score: 61
67/7 = 9.57
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Alternate Endings”
Written By: Ali Rosen
Published by: Montlake
Publication date: May 7, 2024
ARC provided by Netgalley
•••
Beatrice has had a not so great history with men. As a teenager, her heart was broken by her first love, Jack which she never really recovered from. Now as an adult, she’s going through a tough divorce with a man whom she married after only knowing him for a short time because she got pregnant. Luckily, Beatrice has the most adorable son named Bash, loves her job, has amazing friends and has learned to stay out of her soon to be ex husbands way to avoid conflict.
All is normal until her boss tells her she’s also getting a divorce, is moving to Ireland and their work team will have to travel back and forth every few months for meetings. Not only that, but her ex boyfriend Jack suddenly shows up in the office, as their new Chief Technology Officer. All of these changes knock Beatrice off her axis and are going to take her for a ride she didn’t even see coming.
•••
FINALLY a Rom-Com where the main characters learn to communicate. I feel like a common occurrence in romance is a constant miscommunication between characters. After seeing it in entirely too many books with little to no resolution to the problem at hand in any of them, I am pleased to read something with substance that gets to the root of the problem.
Honestly, I LOVED this book. I loved the characters, I loved the back stories and the build up. I enjoyed the real life issues as a single mom trying to find her way in the world. And especially the new found ability to be a bad ass woman in the work place. SLOW CLAP for Ali Rosen. You nailed it.
Thank you SO much to Ali, Montlake and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC! It was fantastic.
1- Characters: 10
2- Atmosphere/Setting: 10
3- Writing Style: 10
4- Plot: 10
5- Intrigue: 8
6- Logic/Relationships: 9
7- Enjoyment: 10
Total Score: 61
67/7 = 9.57
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 17, 2024
Really liked this! It moved very quickly and I finished it in two days. I really enjoyed Bea’s and Jack’s story. Plus Bash was adorable. I do wish that there had been more flashbacks from their high school days, I didn’t feel like I got the whole picture on what all happened.
But overall, this is a great read for anyone looking for a fun romance.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
But overall, this is a great read for anyone looking for a fun romance.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
July 29, 2024
This is a smart, witty, breathless second-chance romance about a single mother juggling home life and career who starts traveling to Ireland for work and reconnects with a high school love who is now the CTO of her company. It is the story of Beatrice, who is getting divorced and is trying to deal with custody of her kid and ex-husband while managing a job she loves and a boss who has decided to move back to Ireland. Now, Bea will have to travel to Ireland often, which upends her precarious custody scenario. As this unfolds, the boy she loved in high school becomes the new CTO of her company. They embark on a "friends with benefits" situation. It's the story of two type-A people trying to maintain control of their lives.
I loved this book and found the characters relatable and real. The author's writing about marriage, divorce, custody, kids, and career is fantastic because it explores the duality of being a woman who wants many things. It also speaks to women trying to succeed at everything they want to do and maintain control in uncontrollable situations.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
I loved this book and found the characters relatable and real. The author's writing about marriage, divorce, custody, kids, and career is fantastic because it explores the duality of being a woman who wants many things. It also speaks to women trying to succeed at everything they want to do and maintain control in uncontrollable situations.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
May 6, 2024
I absolutely adored Ali Rosen's sophomore novel. I am a sucker for a second chance romance and Bea and Jack were truly a couple I could root for. It's nice to see a heroine my age (36) represented as well, as a lot of romances tend to focus on twenty somethings and I really liked the relatable aspects of these characters. I enjoyed that this book took place between Ireland and NYC - as a NYC resident, I love to read about local places and the chapters in Ireland added a nice balance to the story.
The narration by Maria Marquis was phenomenal and made this story a joy to listen to from start to finish.
4.25 stars!
The narration by Maria Marquis was phenomenal and made this story a joy to listen to from start to finish.
4.25 stars!
April 25, 2024
This was my first Ali Rosen book, and I definitely want to read her other stuff! I loved that even though this was a romance, it focused a lot on Beatrice and her growth as a character. She felt relatable and empowering as a single mom, who was also a powerhouse at work. This book felt light even with the heavier topics discussed. Rosen touches on divorce, IVF and infertility, as well as the fear of asking what you want as a woman, and I thought she did this so well. I also enjoyed the second chance romance here. Jack and Beatrice immediately had tangible chemistry and I couldn't get enough of them. The mixed setting of New York and Ireland was fun too, and I didn't mind the back and forth journey we went on as readers. Bash was a really wholesome side character as were Beatrice's sister in law and her friends. There was some classic deflection humor that worked well, but this was emotional at times too. Overall, this was a quick read and I really enjoyed it. Thank you to LEO PR and Brilliance audio for sending me ARC's to read and review!
May 9, 2024
This gave me Emily Henry vibes
Lots of side characters involved and the story isn’t truly just about the love story
It’s also about the main character finding her voice
Although I will say it was a bit on the long side, I truly enjoyed the story. I loved the development of the main characters Beatrice and Jack. I really didn’t see it being a happy ending through out most of it. I was happily surprised by the ending.
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc!
Lots of side characters involved and the story isn’t truly just about the love story
It’s also about the main character finding her voice
Although I will say it was a bit on the long side, I truly enjoyed the story. I loved the development of the main characters Beatrice and Jack. I really didn’t see it being a happy ending through out most of it. I was happily surprised by the ending.
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc!
February 12, 2024
Not the kind of romance novel I vibe with. Very slow paced, I feel like nothing really happened and I didn't feel the chemistry between the leads.
My free review copy was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
My free review copy was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2024
Super cute book. Quick, easy, light read. I really related to their personalities and loved the love story.
January 15, 2024
A big thank you to Netgalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this book!!
I just finished Alternative Endings and I really, really enjoyed it. I found the first 15% or so to be a bit slow for me but it quickly picked up and I was hooked. I felt the characters were so realistic; with their thoughts, reactions to conflicts, and interactions with one another. I throughly enjoyed the chapters with Bash; he was my favorite!
Overall, I give it a 3.5 and would definitely recommend this easy and heartfelt read.
I just finished Alternative Endings and I really, really enjoyed it. I found the first 15% or so to be a bit slow for me but it quickly picked up and I was hooked. I felt the characters were so realistic; with their thoughts, reactions to conflicts, and interactions with one another. I throughly enjoyed the chapters with Bash; he was my favorite!
Overall, I give it a 3.5 and would definitely recommend this easy and heartfelt read.
May 26, 2024
Second chance romance is by far my favorite trope. I seek out books with this trope and eat them up!
This was a case of "Right book, wrong time." There isn't anything specific that I struggled with -- I was just struggling with reading in general when I picked this one up. I read it at a time when it was hard to focus on anything, and I found myself just wanting to finish this book and move onto something else.
I will need to give this another try when I'm in the right headspace because I appreciated the unique plot and the reviews are wonderful.
This was a case of "Right book, wrong time." There isn't anything specific that I struggled with -- I was just struggling with reading in general when I picked this one up. I read it at a time when it was hard to focus on anything, and I found myself just wanting to finish this book and move onto something else.
I will need to give this another try when I'm in the right headspace because I appreciated the unique plot and the reviews are wonderful.
January 26, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
Bea is a newly single mother facing the challenge of balancing her career, raising her child, and navigating her sticky divorce. She is put to the test when a pivotal moment in her career now requires regular travel between NYC and Ireland.
To top it all off, Bea’s first trip to Ireland reveals that her company's new CTO is none other than Jack Sandler, the man who ghosted her in high school twenty years ago.
Alternate Endings takes place over the course of a year and is a real, raw reflection of just now messy life can be and now hard it is to find yourself when everyone in your life needs something different from you.
“I’ve always been totally unable to extricate myself from small talk because I’m wired to avoid any trace of rudeness; it makes me so uncomfortable to feel like I’m leaving someone in the lurch. It’s always been that way for me, and I keep expecting to get better at caring less as I get older, but I’m yet to see the fruits of that theory bear out.”
This was an incredibly refreshing story about second chances, embracing the mess, and pulling yourself out of the darkness.
“I always have to do this. I have to joke my way out of a compliment or assume it wasn’t a compliment.”
“I wish I could dismantle the entire bridge I’ve been sold as a woman my whole life and believe that women’s bodies and minds aren’t expected to live up to unrealistic standards. What would it even look like to give myself some grace?”
“I’m not sure I have enough self-awareness to know something as basic as what I want.”
Overall, I absolutely loved this story. Who doesn’t love it when a female MC is the one with the f* it moment??
“Fuck it. That’s all I can think. Just, fuck it.”
I loved the way Jack supported Bea and pushed her out of her comfort zone, even if she went kicking and screaming. Jack is the definition of "strong and silent" type and I found myself itching for more insights into his thoughts. I love that deep down, Jack had his own battles he was facing and how monumental (and pivotal) it was when he finally lets Bea in on those challenges.
I found myself a little confused in a couple spots, particularly where there were flashbacks, but it didn't disrupt the flow significantly enough to distract from the story. It was incredibly refreshing to have a corporate, career minded, mid 30's woman as the main character - someone I found myself so easy to relate to. I absolutely loved Bea and Jack's journey and a little of Bash here and there was pure joy. I also thought Bea’s friendships were so beautiful and real and I thoroughly enjoyed the value the side characters brought to this story along the way.
Highly recommend Alternate Endings!
Bea is a newly single mother facing the challenge of balancing her career, raising her child, and navigating her sticky divorce. She is put to the test when a pivotal moment in her career now requires regular travel between NYC and Ireland.
To top it all off, Bea’s first trip to Ireland reveals that her company's new CTO is none other than Jack Sandler, the man who ghosted her in high school twenty years ago.
Alternate Endings takes place over the course of a year and is a real, raw reflection of just now messy life can be and now hard it is to find yourself when everyone in your life needs something different from you.
“I’ve always been totally unable to extricate myself from small talk because I’m wired to avoid any trace of rudeness; it makes me so uncomfortable to feel like I’m leaving someone in the lurch. It’s always been that way for me, and I keep expecting to get better at caring less as I get older, but I’m yet to see the fruits of that theory bear out.”
This was an incredibly refreshing story about second chances, embracing the mess, and pulling yourself out of the darkness.
“I always have to do this. I have to joke my way out of a compliment or assume it wasn’t a compliment.”
“I wish I could dismantle the entire bridge I’ve been sold as a woman my whole life and believe that women’s bodies and minds aren’t expected to live up to unrealistic standards. What would it even look like to give myself some grace?”
“I’m not sure I have enough self-awareness to know something as basic as what I want.”
Overall, I absolutely loved this story. Who doesn’t love it when a female MC is the one with the f* it moment??
“Fuck it. That’s all I can think. Just, fuck it.”
I loved the way Jack supported Bea and pushed her out of her comfort zone, even if she went kicking and screaming. Jack is the definition of "strong and silent" type and I found myself itching for more insights into his thoughts. I love that deep down, Jack had his own battles he was facing and how monumental (and pivotal) it was when he finally lets Bea in on those challenges.
I found myself a little confused in a couple spots, particularly where there were flashbacks, but it didn't disrupt the flow significantly enough to distract from the story. It was incredibly refreshing to have a corporate, career minded, mid 30's woman as the main character - someone I found myself so easy to relate to. I absolutely loved Bea and Jack's journey and a little of Bash here and there was pure joy. I also thought Bea’s friendships were so beautiful and real and I thoroughly enjoyed the value the side characters brought to this story along the way.
Highly recommend Alternate Endings!
April 22, 2024
i have to start by saying that as a second chance trope supremacist first and foremost, this one felt so refreshing to me. i feel like this book used a different "formula" than what we're used to seeing when it comes to the trope and i really really loved that.
it's been a good while since a book got me truly hooked and made me feel as much as this one did. i'm a sucker for romance books that manage to make you truly care for other elements besides the main love story and let's just say that by the final chapters i had tears in my eyes because of bea's journey alone. loved loved loved. and the writing?!?!?! this was my first story by ali rosen, but definitely won't be my last.
like i previously mentioned, bea and jack were not what i was first expecting from a second chance couple, but i ate it up every second of their interactions and honestly i wish there were more! getting other glimpses into their past would've made this perfect for me — alongside adding more of bash and jack.
with that said, i couldn't recommend this book more. if you're like me that's always looking for romance stories that feel real and get you smiling like a fool, go read this one when you can!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
it's been a good while since a book got me truly hooked and made me feel as much as this one did. i'm a sucker for romance books that manage to make you truly care for other elements besides the main love story and let's just say that by the final chapters i had tears in my eyes because of bea's journey alone. loved loved loved. and the writing?!?!?! this was my first story by ali rosen, but definitely won't be my last.
like i previously mentioned, bea and jack were not what i was first expecting from a second chance couple, but i ate it up every second of their interactions and honestly i wish there were more! getting other glimpses into their past would've made this perfect for me — alongside adding more of bash and jack.
with that said, i couldn't recommend this book more. if you're like me that's always looking for romance stories that feel real and get you smiling like a fool, go read this one when you can!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2024
Wow. What an amazing second novel from Ali Rosen. I really enjoyed her debut novel, and this proved an even better read. The swell of emotions throughout reading this were like a rollercoaster. She touches on such important topics, and everything she wrote felt genuinely real. The friendships in this novel are unparalleled to most books I’ve read recently. I love the perspective of her main character, Bea being a single mother. Life is messy and people come into it unexpectedly, just as Jack Sander does so gracefully. Their relationship blossoms into something pure and affectionate compared to that of their teenage years. The pacing was on point, there weren’t any moments that felt superfluous or dragging. I really loved the dimensions of her and Lucas’ relationship as co-parents, she respected him as a father and vice versa even if they didn’t care for one another, which in reality is most co-parenting. I really enjoy the cooking similes she often gravitates towards, brings a smile to my face every time. Thank you NetGalley for letting me read and review. I can’t wait for another Ali Rosen book in the future!
March 14, 2024
Thank you to Ali Rosen and for the gifted digital copy of her gorgeous book, which is both a charming second-chance romance and a thoughtful story about the conflicting pressures put on women as parents, partners, and professionals.
At the pinnacle of her career and managing co-parenting with her ex-husband, Bea's life takes an unexpected turn when her boss announces a move to Ireland. This decision, requiring frequent travel, threatens Bea's delicate custody arrangement. In Ireland, she is confronted with a surprise: the new Chief Technology Officer is Jack Slater, her high school love, who broke her heart. Their relationship, initially frosty, thaws into a 'what happens in Ireland, stays in Ireland' co-workers-with-benefits arrangement. As their connection deepens, Bea discovers a newfound confidence, thanks to Jack's quiet support. This evolving relationship and the complex dynamics of Bea's friends and boss form the heart of the story, culminating in a poignant reflection on past events and a hopeful future.
This book is such an evolution for Bea - deciding she can choose how to respond to the challenges in front of her, ask for what she wants, own her successes, and solve her own problems. I love how she navigates coming to terms with the dissolution of her marriage, gains confidence in herself, and how Jack gives her the space and confidence to do those things. He doesn't swoop in to help her; he pushes her to help herself. In addition to Bea and Jack, Bea's friends and boss play critical roles in the story. Additionally, Bea and Jack revisit their different perspectives on what happened twenty years ago, and each sees those events through new eyes. By the end, I cared tremendously about these characters and reflected on my own conflicts of trying to be successful as a partner and mother while also being dedicated to a job I love.
At the pinnacle of her career and managing co-parenting with her ex-husband, Bea's life takes an unexpected turn when her boss announces a move to Ireland. This decision, requiring frequent travel, threatens Bea's delicate custody arrangement. In Ireland, she is confronted with a surprise: the new Chief Technology Officer is Jack Slater, her high school love, who broke her heart. Their relationship, initially frosty, thaws into a 'what happens in Ireland, stays in Ireland' co-workers-with-benefits arrangement. As their connection deepens, Bea discovers a newfound confidence, thanks to Jack's quiet support. This evolving relationship and the complex dynamics of Bea's friends and boss form the heart of the story, culminating in a poignant reflection on past events and a hopeful future.
This book is such an evolution for Bea - deciding she can choose how to respond to the challenges in front of her, ask for what she wants, own her successes, and solve her own problems. I love how she navigates coming to terms with the dissolution of her marriage, gains confidence in herself, and how Jack gives her the space and confidence to do those things. He doesn't swoop in to help her; he pushes her to help herself. In addition to Bea and Jack, Bea's friends and boss play critical roles in the story. Additionally, Bea and Jack revisit their different perspectives on what happened twenty years ago, and each sees those events through new eyes. By the end, I cared tremendously about these characters and reflected on my own conflicts of trying to be successful as a partner and mother while also being dedicated to a job I love.
March 17, 2024
4.5 stars
**ARC provided by Netgalley for my honest review**
Alternate Endings is Ali Rosen's second novel and I really enjoyed it.
I don't read book blurbs and I requested this book because I enjoyed the author's first book, which I listened to and I'm so glad I was able to read an ARC.
Alternate Endings isn't your typical romance book and I say it in a good way. I loved the way Beatrice changed through the book and how she is learning to balance her personal life with her work life and give love a second chance.
The book deals with infertility issues that accorded while Bea was married and the way her marriage ended have a huge impact on her current relationship with Jack.
Bea and Jack have history from school and it didn't end on a good note but now that he is working with her and they are spending time in Ireland for work, they need to find a way to move on from the past.
The book had potential for unnecessary drama and I'm happy the author didn't go that route and what started as a no string attached sex between Bea and Jack while they are in Ireland becomes much more.
I really liked the secondary characters, Bea's friends helping and supporting her and also her former sister in law who lives with Bea and is still one of her best friends. Bea's son Bash was so funny and I loved reading about him.
**ARC provided by Netgalley for my honest review**
Alternate Endings is Ali Rosen's second novel and I really enjoyed it.
I don't read book blurbs and I requested this book because I enjoyed the author's first book, which I listened to and I'm so glad I was able to read an ARC.
Alternate Endings isn't your typical romance book and I say it in a good way. I loved the way Beatrice changed through the book and how she is learning to balance her personal life with her work life and give love a second chance.
The book deals with infertility issues that accorded while Bea was married and the way her marriage ended have a huge impact on her current relationship with Jack.
Bea and Jack have history from school and it didn't end on a good note but now that he is working with her and they are spending time in Ireland for work, they need to find a way to move on from the past.
The book had potential for unnecessary drama and I'm happy the author didn't go that route and what started as a no string attached sex between Bea and Jack while they are in Ireland becomes much more.
I really liked the secondary characters, Bea's friends helping and supporting her and also her former sister in law who lives with Bea and is still one of her best friends. Bea's son Bash was so funny and I loved reading about him.
May 22, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
I've never read a book that used the word obfuscate so often :)
What a lovely surprise to find adult characters who know how to communicate, who support each other without backstabbing, who form a loving community amongst each other. No third act breakup - hurray! I loved all of these characters. I loved how Jack pushed Bea out of her comfort zone. She showed so much growth throughout the story. I loved how Bea stood up for Jack when he needed it most. Bea's boss, Brigid, is a badass and I want to be her when I grow up. Bash was absolutely adorable and I kept picturing him as Young Sheldon. I really enjoyed the writing style and will definitely read her again. I'm still thinking about this one days later. I didn't want it to end.
4.5 stars rounded up (a bit of a slow start)
I've never read a book that used the word obfuscate so often :)
What a lovely surprise to find adult characters who know how to communicate, who support each other without backstabbing, who form a loving community amongst each other. No third act breakup - hurray! I loved all of these characters. I loved how Jack pushed Bea out of her comfort zone. She showed so much growth throughout the story. I loved how Bea stood up for Jack when he needed it most. Bea's boss, Brigid, is a badass and I want to be her when I grow up. Bash was absolutely adorable and I kept picturing him as Young Sheldon. I really enjoyed the writing style and will definitely read her again. I'm still thinking about this one days later. I didn't want it to end.
4.5 stars rounded up (a bit of a slow start)
February 18, 2024
Thanks to Ali and Netgalley for my first ever ARC experience! What a special book to begin with - this gem of a story centered around a divorced mom named Beatrice who had such an authentic personality and echoed the challenging sentiments of navigating a career and parenting, plus reflected on family dynamics and secondary infertility galore. One of my favorite quotes that I really related to was “adulthood is about finding beauty in the gray”. Her relationship with Jack over time was adorably developed and felt so realistic plus Brigid was hilarious. Finally a second chance romcom that felt like the perfect length too!
January 26, 2024
I received this ARC from NetGalley and Montlake and all opinions are my own. Thank you for this opportunity!
I read this book in one day. Does that say anything? I adore Jack and Bea. You see growth in both characters throughout the story, but especially Bea. I love that there are recipes at the back of the book. Read this if you like second chance romance. If you like Carley Fortune, Emily Henry, and Christina Lauren you’ll love this.
Trigger warnings: infertility
I read this book in one day. Does that say anything? I adore Jack and Bea. You see growth in both characters throughout the story, but especially Bea. I love that there are recipes at the back of the book. Read this if you like second chance romance. If you like Carley Fortune, Emily Henry, and Christina Lauren you’ll love this.
Trigger warnings: infertility
April 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this! Ali Rosen writes deep characters and engaging storylines that feel both character and plot driven, which I like. There were some really great lines in this one! I definitely got twinges of that longing and yearning that I love. Like “Recipe For Second Chances,” “Alternate Endings” straddles that line between romance and women’s/lit fic—much like Emily Henry’s books. They feature prominent romantic storylines but are also heavily influenced by the personal growth of the main character(s).
The story follows Bea, a recent divorcee who shares a son named Bash with her ex, and Jack, her high school ex. After years of no communication (and bitterness on her part), they find themselves thrown into work together when Jack is hired by Bea’s eccentric boss. We follow Bea and Jack as they reacquaint themselves, quickly become “sex friends,” and over time, rekindle a deeper connection.
The story felt consistently paced overall, and I appreciated the growth displayed in Bea and Jack— both together and separately. I liked that Bea’s divorce wasn’t harped on excessively. It was a theme and was talked about, but the majority of the interactions we see with the ex wind up being neutral/positive so the growth felt genuine. It was clear that Bea was really trying to get out of her own way to be a better mom/friend/etc. The romance storyline was sweet. Bea and Jack had some good banter, but definitely took their sweet time learning to communicate. The story was spicy in the sense that they had a lot of sex, but the scenes weren’t really explicit on-page. I liked seeing their emotional connection deepen throughout the story. The small ways they started showing up for each other contributed to the believability of their arc.
The side characters were, for the most part, enjoyable. But I did find myself frustrated/annoyed with Bea’s boss, Brigid. She just came across to me as very insensitive, blasé, and manipulative. I understand that Bea appreciates a lot of that detachedness, but the ups and downs of that relationship as Bea clearly worked to be better herself, bothered me. I wish Brigid had softened up better, sooner.
Overall I really enjoyed this! Ali Rosen is quickly becoming an auto-read author for me and I enjoy recommending her to friends and followers. I would have read it much faster if I wasn’t traveling for work this week😂
🫶🏻Thank you to NetGalley, Ali, and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review🫶🏻
The story follows Bea, a recent divorcee who shares a son named Bash with her ex, and Jack, her high school ex. After years of no communication (and bitterness on her part), they find themselves thrown into work together when Jack is hired by Bea’s eccentric boss. We follow Bea and Jack as they reacquaint themselves, quickly become “sex friends,” and over time, rekindle a deeper connection.
The story felt consistently paced overall, and I appreciated the growth displayed in Bea and Jack— both together and separately. I liked that Bea’s divorce wasn’t harped on excessively. It was a theme and was talked about, but the majority of the interactions we see with the ex wind up being neutral/positive so the growth felt genuine. It was clear that Bea was really trying to get out of her own way to be a better mom/friend/etc. The romance storyline was sweet. Bea and Jack had some good banter, but definitely took their sweet time learning to communicate. The story was spicy in the sense that they had a lot of sex, but the scenes weren’t really explicit on-page. I liked seeing their emotional connection deepen throughout the story. The small ways they started showing up for each other contributed to the believability of their arc.
The side characters were, for the most part, enjoyable. But I did find myself frustrated/annoyed with Bea’s boss, Brigid. She just came across to me as very insensitive, blasé, and manipulative. I understand that Bea appreciates a lot of that detachedness, but the ups and downs of that relationship as Bea clearly worked to be better herself, bothered me. I wish Brigid had softened up better, sooner.
Overall I really enjoyed this! Ali Rosen is quickly becoming an auto-read author for me and I enjoy recommending her to friends and followers. I would have read it much faster if I wasn’t traveling for work this week😂
🫶🏻Thank you to NetGalley, Ali, and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review🫶🏻
January 22, 2024
I totally understand why my friend said that Ali Rosen’s writing reminds her of Emily Henry’s, because I agree 100%! It’s also a little similar to Sarah Adams, so naturally, I am here for it!
I love that there’s a healthy mix of humor and fun, as well as emotions that hit hard with a dose of reality.
Unfiltered thoughts:
Bea’s a single mom who has to travel every 2 times a month to Ireland for work because her boss moved to a castle there and she likes to host in-person team meetings. On her first meeting in Ireland, she finds out that the CTO of the company is none other than Jack, the guy who broke Bea’s heart on prom night. The forced proximity is bringing back feelings and attraction, so they put it to good use and become “sex friends”.
The story is mostly set in Ireland, so we get more of the romance aspect, but we also get some moments of Bea’s life in NY with her son, her ex-sister-in-law, and her best friends. Her friends and ex-sil are a hilarious bunch! Their friendship is so strong and beautiful! I love how supportive they are of Bea, always there to give advice and a wake-up call when needed.
The romance… the romance! Jack Sanders is the sweetest cinnamon roll! I loved him so much! I love how much he’d love Bea’s ramblings. Their entire non-relationship was filled with so much intimacy and longing stares and communication. It was beautiful to witness. And Jack’s conversations with Bea’s son were such a highlight for me.
The one who stole the show was Bea’s boss, Brigid. My gosh, I love her and I want to be her when I grow up! She’s such a power woman and her “let go and move on” mantra is the best I’ve heard, and gosh, did I need it. Now I need Brigid to get her love story!
The moments when Bea’s infertility were discussed hit home for me, but also were what I needed to read, especially knowing the author took from her own experience to write Bea’s story. The author handled everything with care and gentleness and grace, and I applaud her immensely for that.
Overall, this book already made it in my 2024 faves. It’s absolutely wonderful and breath-taking! And Ali Rosen is now an author that is going in my auto-buy list.
I love that there’s a healthy mix of humor and fun, as well as emotions that hit hard with a dose of reality.
Unfiltered thoughts:
Bea’s a single mom who has to travel every 2 times a month to Ireland for work because her boss moved to a castle there and she likes to host in-person team meetings. On her first meeting in Ireland, she finds out that the CTO of the company is none other than Jack, the guy who broke Bea’s heart on prom night. The forced proximity is bringing back feelings and attraction, so they put it to good use and become “sex friends”.
The story is mostly set in Ireland, so we get more of the romance aspect, but we also get some moments of Bea’s life in NY with her son, her ex-sister-in-law, and her best friends. Her friends and ex-sil are a hilarious bunch! Their friendship is so strong and beautiful! I love how supportive they are of Bea, always there to give advice and a wake-up call when needed.
The romance… the romance! Jack Sanders is the sweetest cinnamon roll! I loved him so much! I love how much he’d love Bea’s ramblings. Their entire non-relationship was filled with so much intimacy and longing stares and communication. It was beautiful to witness. And Jack’s conversations with Bea’s son were such a highlight for me.
The one who stole the show was Bea’s boss, Brigid. My gosh, I love her and I want to be her when I grow up! She’s such a power woman and her “let go and move on” mantra is the best I’ve heard, and gosh, did I need it. Now I need Brigid to get her love story!
The moments when Bea’s infertility were discussed hit home for me, but also were what I needed to read, especially knowing the author took from her own experience to write Bea’s story. The author handled everything with care and gentleness and grace, and I applaud her immensely for that.
Overall, this book already made it in my 2024 faves. It’s absolutely wonderful and breath-taking! And Ali Rosen is now an author that is going in my auto-buy list.
May 23, 2024
4.5- I missed Ali Rosen’s debut novel because I was trying to make a dent in my very long TBR by focusing on the books that have been on it for the longest, but I’ve since given up on that endeavor and have gone to the opposite end of the spectrum by solely reading advanced copies. Clearly I have no balance. Anyway, this one jumped out at me and I was ecstatic when I was approved for it.
Beatrice Leal is the VP of a New York based tech company and the single Mom of 6 year old, Sebastian (Bash). She’s never had a problem juggling being single mom with a tough career until the CEO moves to Ireland and requires the team to meet at her castle twice a month. Bea finds herself having to negotiate with her moody ex-husband while battling jet lag and crazy work outings. The real kicker is when she realizes the new Chief Technology Officer is none other than Jack Sander, her high school crush who crushed her heart and then ghosted her for 20 years. She thought she was over Jack until she saw him and all of her feelings from the age of 16 come rushing back. Now 20 years older and filled with more wisdom and insight, Bea and Jack decide to make the most of their regular time in Ireland while keeping their lives separate in New York. It’s messy, but Bea is beginning to discover that sometimes messiness leads to a life of happiness.
Ms. Rosen has written a book filled with characters with whom I want to be friends. Everyone from quirky Brigid to caring Rika and calm Clem offer something amazing to Bea’s life. I especially love how Bea came to look at her life differently and in doing so she made changes towards a happier life.
I am definitely going to check out Recipe for Second Chances sooner rather than later! Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an advanced copy of this. Alternate Endings hit the shelves on May 7th.
Beatrice Leal is the VP of a New York based tech company and the single Mom of 6 year old, Sebastian (Bash). She’s never had a problem juggling being single mom with a tough career until the CEO moves to Ireland and requires the team to meet at her castle twice a month. Bea finds herself having to negotiate with her moody ex-husband while battling jet lag and crazy work outings. The real kicker is when she realizes the new Chief Technology Officer is none other than Jack Sander, her high school crush who crushed her heart and then ghosted her for 20 years. She thought she was over Jack until she saw him and all of her feelings from the age of 16 come rushing back. Now 20 years older and filled with more wisdom and insight, Bea and Jack decide to make the most of their regular time in Ireland while keeping their lives separate in New York. It’s messy, but Bea is beginning to discover that sometimes messiness leads to a life of happiness.
Ms. Rosen has written a book filled with characters with whom I want to be friends. Everyone from quirky Brigid to caring Rika and calm Clem offer something amazing to Bea’s life. I especially love how Bea came to look at her life differently and in doing so she made changes towards a happier life.
I am definitely going to check out Recipe for Second Chances sooner rather than later! Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an advanced copy of this. Alternate Endings hit the shelves on May 7th.
May 6, 2024
Alternate Endings by Ali Rosen gives us an interesting take on second chance romance. Bea and Jack meet after a long time in a weird situation and their lives have changed a lot through years. Bea has a son, a messy work life, a complicated divorce and then comes Jack. Irish castle, quirky boss and forced proximity are not the best combination but it sure did provide a different kind of backdrop.
Bea is a bit all over the place. Her ex is so closed minded and controlling and she is under severe stress about her beautiful son's custody. Her boss is supportive but has a quirky sense of running business. Bea was reluctant to leave her son with her ex husband to attend the meetings in the Irish castle her boss has moved to but she is promised a promotion and it would help immensely in the impending custody battle. She is a great mother. She is witty and hard working. She has been thtough some heartbreaking timea but she is a fighter.Jack is a blast from the past she didn't expect to be their new CTO. They have been best friends and almost lovers when they were young. The past feelings are still buried deep somewhere. Jack is not your prototype alpha. He has worked hard to make his own career away from his toxic family so he is definitely confident and charismatic but the underlying vulnerability made him relatable. They had a friends aka coworkers with benefits situation going on when in Ireland but it soon overflowed into New York. Jack is the supportive partner Bea needed to put all the pieces of her life together and Jack found his old best friend and soulmate again.
I feel the secondary characters took too much space in the book. Specially Bea's friends. I wanted Bea to talk out her feelings out with Jack but there were so many long chapters where Bea talked about her feelings with her friends. Their relationship built up was lacking. I was distracted by so many things other than the romance part.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Bea is a bit all over the place. Her ex is so closed minded and controlling and she is under severe stress about her beautiful son's custody. Her boss is supportive but has a quirky sense of running business. Bea was reluctant to leave her son with her ex husband to attend the meetings in the Irish castle her boss has moved to but she is promised a promotion and it would help immensely in the impending custody battle. She is a great mother. She is witty and hard working. She has been thtough some heartbreaking timea but she is a fighter.Jack is a blast from the past she didn't expect to be their new CTO. They have been best friends and almost lovers when they were young. The past feelings are still buried deep somewhere. Jack is not your prototype alpha. He has worked hard to make his own career away from his toxic family so he is definitely confident and charismatic but the underlying vulnerability made him relatable. They had a friends aka coworkers with benefits situation going on when in Ireland but it soon overflowed into New York. Jack is the supportive partner Bea needed to put all the pieces of her life together and Jack found his old best friend and soulmate again.
I feel the secondary characters took too much space in the book. Specially Bea's friends. I wanted Bea to talk out her feelings out with Jack but there were so many long chapters where Bea talked about her feelings with her friends. Their relationship built up was lacking. I was distracted by so many things other than the romance part.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
March 5, 2024
Roses: Bash was the cutest kid character I have read lately. Bea was such a good lead character and I loved her journey in this story. She wasn’t on,y making gains in her job but she was also making gains in herself with figuring out how to speak for what she wants. She became a better version of herself towards the end. I didn't mind that the romance here was kind of a secondary plot to her growth but I loved when we got those romantic moments between her Jack. Jack was a good character and grew overtime with Bea to create a relationship that was fitting for the two of them. They both grew to understand each other and what each other needed to be their best selves. Bea’s friend group was really great and I enjoyed them so much.
Thorns: Jack was not as swoon inducing as I thought he would have been. He definitely had his moments but I was wanting a lot more from him. I thought the Lucas plot line could have been used more. I feel what I got from his time on page that I wish he just wasn’t involved in the story. He didn’t bring much to me as a reader besides being the ex husband. Beas overall development seemed to flatline through the book and then all of a sudden skyrocketed and then plateaued again. It just made the flow weird to me.
Thorns: Jack was not as swoon inducing as I thought he would have been. He definitely had his moments but I was wanting a lot more from him. I thought the Lucas plot line could have been used more. I feel what I got from his time on page that I wish he just wasn’t involved in the story. He didn’t bring much to me as a reader besides being the ex husband. Beas overall development seemed to flatline through the book and then all of a sudden skyrocketed and then plateaued again. It just made the flow weird to me.
April 16, 2024
I’m Alternate Endings, Ali Rosen gives the reader some of the most authentic and realistic characters found in the romance genre. Bea and Jack are living messy, complicated lives. Their shared history makes their unexpected reunion feel inevitable even as it makes life more challenging. The interactions and dialogue feel entirely plausible.
The real allure of this book lies with the supporting characters. Bash is pure joy. He is delightful in his innocence and exuberance. Bea’s support network of bubble bath taking while FaceTiming friends give her the kind of truthful, unfiltered advice all women need. The relationship between Bea and Lukas seems entirely genuine as they navigate the intricacies of co-parenting after divorce.
This book started slowly for me, but picked up after the first 25%. I’m glad I stuck with it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
The real allure of this book lies with the supporting characters. Bash is pure joy. He is delightful in his innocence and exuberance. Bea’s support network of bubble bath taking while FaceTiming friends give her the kind of truthful, unfiltered advice all women need. The relationship between Bea and Lukas seems entirely genuine as they navigate the intricacies of co-parenting after divorce.
This book started slowly for me, but picked up after the first 25%. I’m glad I stuck with it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2024
I received this arc in exchange for an honest review. 🤍
this was such a cute and easy read. it follows beatrice who is a single mum trying to sort out custody arrangements with her ex-husband while her boss insists on biweekly trips to Ireland for work — where she is reunited with her high school sweetheart.
i was slightly hesitant when i first began reading this but i quickly fell in love with all of the characters and the writing style. it was so easy to follow and the pacing was perfect. the main character’s friends added another layer to this story too.
definitely recommend!!
this was such a cute and easy read. it follows beatrice who is a single mum trying to sort out custody arrangements with her ex-husband while her boss insists on biweekly trips to Ireland for work — where she is reunited with her high school sweetheart.
i was slightly hesitant when i first began reading this but i quickly fell in love with all of the characters and the writing style. it was so easy to follow and the pacing was perfect. the main character’s friends added another layer to this story too.
definitely recommend!!
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