Reads like a romcom, with tones of seriousness under the surface. Once this story started to pick up I couldn’t stop reading until the end.

TW: infertility, endometriosis, miscarriages, IVF procedures

This premise was a wild one! I haven’t read a book like this one before!

Gemma is a thirty-two year old divorced woman working for a self-help guru. She’s spent years and years looking for her Mr. Right, but after a disastrous marriage and even worse prospects, she’s decided that she doesn’t want the man — she wants a baby.

The whole premise revolves around Gemma turning towards IVF (in-vitro fertilization) to help her get pregnant as a single mom, but the idea of an anonymous sperm donor freaks her out. So she makes a list of all the qualities she wants to see in her baby, and only one person she knows fits that bill to the last letter — Josh, her brother’s best friend and a constant in her life for the past 24 years. (I say constant, but she knows next to nothing about him and what he does — constant in terms of quantity not quality, I guess!)

Josh agrees to be her sperm donor, but as she starts turning towards Mr. Wrong, she begins to realize exactly where her Mr. Right has been this whole time. The only problem…she doesn’t want to complicate this IVF process by pushing her feelings onto him.

To be perfectly honest, this book was hilarious in so many aspects — Gemma’s family is insane, her support group is unhinged and the dialogues and situations she finds herself in are like no other! The support group has people from very different walks of life, with very different situations in which they’ve all opted for IVF. But somehow, this insane group of puzzle pieces works out in their favour because they get great friends out of it.

Josh’s webcomic is an unpaid main character in this book, in which everyone in Gemma’s life talks and fawns over it and she just hasn’t read it at all in the past two decades. It makes sense that it all comes to a head with it, because there are hints that imply that there’s something Gemma needs to see in it. Also, I liked the little drawings sprinkled throughout!

I really felt for Gemma in the first half of this book, but towards the latter half, I was more confused than anything. It felt like we were taking leaps and bounds with her relationship with Josh in ways that you couldn’t tell how you got there? Somewhere, these events were disconnected enough for me to lose track of the Gemma-Josh train.

If you need a laugh-out-loud contemporary romance that explores the trials and tribulations of trying to enter an unconventional phase of life, then this is for you!

[Thank you Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC and NetGalley for providing this book to me in exchange for an honest review!]

"𝑻𝒘𝒐 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒈𝒐, 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒌𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒓'𝒔, 𝑰 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒉. 𝑰'𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆, 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒕 𝒎𝒆. 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆."

𝑯𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕.

"𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒕. 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒈𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒓. 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒈𝒐 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅."
_____________________________________

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🔥🔥
Tropes: Brother's best friend, planned pregnancy, love triangle (kind of)
Triggers: Loss, infertility, miscarriage

Available January 25th!

I saw Josh and Gemma Make a Baby was available as an ARC and decided to read it. I'm glad I did because I enjoyed it and it introduced me to Sarah Ready!

As someone who doesn't have that "I have to have a baby" urge, I wasn't sure I was going to connect with this book. I found myself able to connect to the story and I was rooting for Gemma to become a mom. She was challenging at times as a character, but I felt like I related to her at times around her looks and how she holds herself back.

Josh is just a perfect cinnamon roll 🥰 It was so clear how he felt about Gemma and it was frustrating to see her be so oblivious to it. I loved him so much. His new years resolution was perfect.

This book had many funny moments, but also made me cry a few times. I thought it did a good job of talking about infertility and loss, which is still very much a topic that's not discussed enough.

This would've been a five star book for me, but I felt it lacked some spice/tension. I'm totally good with closed door spice scenes, and some of my top books last year had limited spice. There were moments, but I would've liked more. I wish we could've got some POV from Josh since we only got Gemma's.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. And thank you, Sarah, for writing this book!

I'm going to start off by saying that pregnancy tropes are not really my thing. I was quite hesitant to start this book but decided to give it a chance. Within the first 20 pages I was HOOKED!!! Gemma's voice is hilarious and so relatable, it was easy to fall in love with her immediately. I got STRONG Bridget Jones vibes but it didn't feel. like it was an outright copy cat of it. Josh was also one of those MCs that slowly creeps up on you. As I got further into to the book I found myself in pain over how much Josh was clearly in love with Gemma. There was some plot twists that were amazing and only drove the novel along. Also the group Gemma joins full of women also going through infertility was absolutely hilarious. I loved the life long connection they all formed. I am so happy I decided to give this book a chance and will forever be recommending it to everyone I meet. As we get older we forget to lean into scary things because of the chance of being truly, gut-wrenchingly, hurt. Gemma's journey through this felt incredibly personal and like I was going through it with her. Thank you to Net Galley for letting me read this!

This was pretty much exactly what I was expecting from the description! Gemma is in her early 30s, has been divorced for a while, and learned back in her 20s that she was infertile. She's always wanted a baby, and she decides to go it alone through IVF. When she first meets with the reproductive endocrinologist, he asks if she has a partner and she blurts out that she does, though she really doesn't. She decides to ask her older brother's best friend, who she's known for years and to whom she lost her virginity 16 years before. He ultimately agrees, and through the process they actually become friends, and then maybe more. I liked their relationship, and this was a very quick read - a nice balance of heavy topics (infertility, loss, grief) and fun, light banter.

Josh and Gemma Make a Baby follows the journey of Gemma, a thirty-something divorced woman suffering from infertility, and Josh, her brother's best friend and the guy who's been a "houseplant" in the background of her life since she was young. Lacking any boyfriend prospects but really wanting a baby of her own, she asks Josh to be a donor for her upcoming IVF cycle.

I grabbed this ARC because I was enchanted by the premise, and thought it would be a fun read. Which is was, for the most part. It was a cute, predictable, brother's-best-friend, slow burn romance. But here's the thing: I really wasn't a fan of our heroine for large parts of the story. She has some really unlikeable qualities. She's extremely self-centered and judgemental, which are not qualities I think lend themselves to being a good parent. Speaking of parents, it's kind of easy to see where Gemma gets her judgemental side from, because her family is awful. On the surface they seem loving, but the non-stop fat-shaming of Gemma goes unchecked and unchallenged for the majority of the book, and from what I can gather she's not even really fat. They also bemoan her lack of a boyfriend and it seems like the entire town knows about the condition of Gemma's uterus. I doubt Gemma told anyone other than her family about her endometriosis, so that means the people who are supposed to love her the most blabbed her business to anyone who would listen.

For the most part, I think Gemma's IVF journey was done well. I've never had fertility issues so I cannot speak to the veracity of her experience, but it seemed like an honest portrayal (except for the part about being able to schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist online for the very next day - ummmmm...no). Although it does seem a bit unrealistic that she would embark on this major medical procedure with very little forethought and research. I mean, she seems surprised at the first support group meeting to learn that many IVF cycles fail. That really seems like basic information someone should know before committing thousands of dollars to an invasive medical procedure like this.

So in a nutshell, your enjoyment of this book will probably depend upon the degree to which you are willing to suspend disbelief on a number of fronts. If you're good with overlooking some flaws in pursuit of just being entertained by a sweet love story, you'll probably like this book. I recommend it for anyone looking for a romance with a unique storyline and a happy ending.

CW: infertility, pregnancy loss, death of a parent, fat shaming

Thank you to NetGalley and Swift & Lewis Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

It’s been a long time since a book made me feel this angry and in love at the same time. On one hand, I LOVED Josh. He has been added to my ‘men from books I’ll never stop thinking about’ list. On the other hand, I really hate Gemma. Let’s start with Pros...
Pros:
Josh.
Funny moments
Josh’s secret
Josh
JOSH.
Con:
Gemma’s crappy attitude
Gemma’s head being so far up her own butt
Gemma’s head being so far up Ian’s butt.
IAN!
Ok... so I have less to say than I expected. This book had soooo much potential and I really liked the moments Josh and Gemma had alone, walking the city and eating pizza. Ian’s storyline was so dumb and unnecessary and made me truly dislike Gemma. This is the kind of story that really needs that dual POV to help readers not only connect with the characters, but to give the author a chance to give more depth to the plot. There were so many topics brought up I would’ve loved to see tackled and resolved, and most just ended up completely brushed over and I don’t feel like we ever truly get to know Gemma or Josh.
2 stars for Gemma, 5 for Josh so let’s meet in the middle and say 3.5

I thought it was a really good way to talk about fertility issues. That’s something that you really don’t hear a lot about outside of nonfiction books. Josh and Gemma’s relationship was really special. I do feel that Gemma was a bit immature for a 32 year old.

This was a quick and cute enough read, albeit very predictable. I didn't always love how the author broached the subject of Gemma's journey with IVF - it's such a sensitive subject for so many women, and, for a large part of the story, it seemed like the seriousness of that process was glossed over - as well as her relationship with her boss, and her past with Josh. It often felt like some key details were left out that just left the story feeling a little flat. I liked it enough to finish it - halfway through I definitely had the familiar romcom feeling of needing to know exactly how things played out with Gemma and Josh - but didn't love it either. Just okay for me.

I was given an ARC by NetGallery in exchange for my honest review.

1. What was your favorite part of the book?
There are so many amazing parts of this book. Though if I had to choose, the scene where Gemma reads Josh’s comic and realizes Josh’s feelings

2. What was your least favorite?
This isn’t my least favorite because it was on the author, but all the pain Gemma went through. It was necessary, but my heart!!

3. Did you race to the end, or was it more of a slow burn?
I would think it was a slow burn. The romance between the two characters was amazing.

4. Which scene has stuck with you the most?
I honestly don’t know which one to choose. I think the scene when she loses the baby while on the live stream and the moment with Ian while it was happening. It was hard to read, my heart really went out to her and I wanted to reach through the book and punch Ian myself.

5. What did you think of the writing? Are there any standout sentences?
The writing was amazing. Sarah Ready has such a way with words. I have so many things highlighted from this story, if I had to choose just one, it would be, “Each one of us, all the people in our lives are like icebergs floating near each other. We only see the top of the icebergs, the faces we show the world, and the rest, all our inner lives and secret fears remain hidden underneath the surface” location 3862-3864

6. Did you reread any passages? If so, which ones?
I didn’t reread any passages

7. Would you want to read another book by this author?
I definitely would.

8. Did reading the book impact your mood? If yes, how so?
It did impact my mood, in so many different ways. Essentially, I felt what the main character felt.

9. What surprised you most about the book?
Honestly, this book seems like it would be a romantic comedy with maybe some fertility issues tied in, but it’s so much more than that. It has life lessons. It’s so beautifully written and I think the author really did an amazing job writing the main characters struggles and the struggles of others around her.

10. How did your opinion of the book change as you read it?
As my previous answer states, I was pleasantly surprised it was so much more than I initially thought.

11. If you could ask the author anything, what would it be?
I don’t really have any questions.

12. How does the book's title work in relation to the book's contents? If you could give the book a new title, what would it be?
I think the title is very straightforward. I do think it’s a little wonky, but I don’t know what to recommend to change it to.

13. Is this book overrated or underrated?
I don’t know how this book will be when it is published, but I hope everyone can take the time to read it. Definitely underrated if it isn’t popular

14. Did this book remind you of any other books?
It doesn’t

13. How did it impact you? Do you think you'll remember it in a few months or years?
I definitely think it impacted some of my ways of thinking. It’s so easy to focus on the negatives in life that the positive gets overrun. I’ll definitely remember it

14. Would you ever consider re-reading it? Why or why not?
I’d definitely reread it. I loved every second of it and I’d love to read it when it’s officially out.

15. Who do you most want to read this book?
…is everyone an option? I’d definitely choose everyone.

16. Are there lingering questions from the book you're still thinking about?
What was the gender of the baby?!?! Though it’s small, I can’t help but wonder

17. Did the book strike you as original? Yes and no?
Oh, yeah. I think it’s original. I haven’t personally read anything similar to it.

*3.5/5
this was such a cute and quick read! i have to say that i really enjoyed reading it, so much so that the flaws that i encountered didn't bother me very much, i just flew through it and read it in one sitting. this book went beyond my expectations and i think i might check out other books from the author.

content warnings : infertility, miscarriage, loss of a parent, fatshaming

e-arc provided by netgalley in exchange for an honest review

At 32 Gemma has already had her fair share of disappointments in her life, a failed marriage, a failing uterus, and countless failed dates set up by her mother. With the words of her boss and self-help guru, Ian, she knows best "if you can dream it you can do it", so who cares that her new year's resolution is to have a baby and the only thing she's missing is the other half of the equation, sperm.

With the daunting task of IVF already looming over her head, she panics when asked who her partner is and raddles off the first name that comes to mind, her brother's best friend, Josh. Although he's seemingly unmotivated, quitting his successful business venture to draw comics in his dad's basement Gemma knows him well, she can't deny his good looks, and he's basically part of the family. What could go wrong?

This book does a deep dive into the trials and triumphs of infertility, IVF, and the support needed along the way. It was a slow burn throughout but you're constantly rooting for them both. There are some scenes I found hard to believe could be realistic and unfortunately didn't add a lot to the narrative either but overall the book was a quick read and left me smiling in the end.

A feel good romance that was definitely needed for this beginning of year. The writing is strong but the author manages to write about hard subject such as infertility with care and still manages to have the book be pretty mood lifting. The characters are all lovable despite their flaws and you will definitely root for them. Definitely would recommend

Josh and Gemma Make a Baby was a cute yet predictable read, that I flew through. Gemma is diagnosed with Stage 4 endometriosis, causing fertility issues, however one of her key goals in life is to have a baby, so she recruits Josh to help her.

I loved Josh, he was so sweet, funny and deserved so much. He remembered key moments for Gemma, and overall I think he earned so much better. Gemma however... is one of the reasons I rated it low. She was mostly annoying, blowing up at those that didn't deserve it, judgmental and selfish and she barely spent time to learn about Josh. Despite this, I did feel sympathy for her- she had a horrendous time and was hormonal, yet this couldn't completely forgive her actions.

The infertility issues were handled amazingly, with the 'support group', and I was so happy how it ended for them. I felt it was done sensitively, and the Authors Note at the end backed this up. One of the reasons I disliked Gemma was her insensitive and angry reaction when she blew up at her friends, then refused to apologise for her harsh actions, especially regarding the infertility, which she herself knows is a huge issue.

I felt too much time was focused on Ian, and yes he was key to the story, however I would've preferred time to learn about Josh, for them to get to know each other as we 'watch', instead of learning about Ian, who was a slimy guy. Also, when he had the woman in his house, I felt Gemma could've blown up at him... or said more... I hated that she still was nice to him. In addition, her mum... she was so rude! I understand family 'wanting the best for her' but setting her up with a sleazy 50 year old man... please stop.

I gave it 3.5 stars, rounded down as when I remember the book, there are more issues that stick out to me.

This book was an awesome funny nonstop reading OMG I burnt roast beef rom com
The best since looong time
I loved Gemma flaws and her insecurities her struggling with her snoopy insistent mother
I loved. The way she was trying to shape her life at her pace and rules
Josh sweetheart you are an unicorn
Ian please go and have a swim with cube jelliyfishes or sharks
Best book since months @Rozzberry this was yummi
Sensitive topic disclaimer infertility and miscarriage
Five stars

An emotional rollercoaster indeed. I felt Gemma’s pain as she navigated the process of IVF. The friendships she developed with the ladies and their jokes were the best.

I loved this book so much! From a family friend to friendship, to lovers. Very heartfelt and funny too!

3.5⭐️ This story is about Gemma who has stage 4 endometriosis which is causing fertility issues. She decides that she wants to have a baby but needs a sperm donor. She decides to ask Josh who has been her next door neighbor/ brothers best friend for the longest of time.
This book was very cute because of the relationship that Josh and Gemma had with one another. The wittiness and humor that came along with the story i really enjoyed and had me laughing. The way that the book managed to cover a serious issue but still keep us entertained is amazing. Overall, the book was ok but i found it to be very slow at certain points. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC!

This was my first novel by Sarah Ready and I really enjoyed it! I was really captivated by the blurb and the cover and decided to give this one a chance and I’m glad I did cause this was a sweet predictable rom-com which is how I wanted my first read of 2022 to be.

I listened to the audiobook and I really loved the way the book was narrated.

I loved Josh. I loved how he was so caring and thoughtful and his relationship with his dad. I also loved how his job was to write web comics which was something new I’ve read in books. I also adored the fact that he remembered small things about Gemma which happened like 25 years back😭😭

Gemma umm well, I’m not sure how I feel about her. There were moments when I felt sad for her buttttt there were moments where she annoyed the fuck out of me. I know it was her character which was supposed to be shown like this but I really didn’t like her and she got on my nerves.

Although there were some stuff I wished were done different like gemma’s character, I still loved how the writing was so captivating and addicting! I’ll surely check out her other books too when I’m in mood for a sweet book.

Thankyou to netgalley for providing me with an eArc.

If I could read this again with fresh I 100% would. It was delightful in all the very best ways!

Gemma has found out that she has stage 4 endometriosis. This means she will have to go under fertility treatments in order to conceive.

Who better to do that than the handsome best friend of her brother, Josh.

Oh my heart Josh. Gemma and Josh. I adored them each. The humor they possess individually really is magnificent when they're together.

Was this predictable? Yep. Did I still give this all the stars? You bet!!!

Don't miss out on this fun piece of wonderful!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the advanced copy.