Gabriel Starr is the love of my life, even if he breaks my heart time and time again.Like a fool, I keep going back, so I’ve made a promise to myself—one final night and then I’m done. One night of passion. No pressure. Most importantly, no future. One month later, a positive pregnancy test tells me different. Our only option is to raise this baby as friends, but how can we make it work when we … friends, but how can we make it work when we can’t even keep our hands off each other?
We finally have the chance to be the family we never imagined we could be.
But first, we need to focus on Fixing Us.
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No matter how much two people love each other it has to be the right time for the relationship to work, and that was the case with Gabe and Leigh. Leigh was always ready but she had to let Gabe get his life together to be ready to love and be loved. I enjoyed the storyline and these wonderful characters. Lots of feelings not just between these two but with all the characters. Great book.
This was the third book in the Fixing Series. I couldn’t wait for Leigh’s story.
Leigh & Gabe were high school sweethearts.
Then Gabe went and broke her heart.
But it was for the best, right?
During the years after high school, they weren’t an item, yet they just couldn’t stay away from each other. Gabe is always running away, never giving himself a chance to love, or be loved. He doesn’t think he’s worthy.
To me, this story was about their growth, both in themselves and their relationship. Many happy, feel-good moments had me smiling, yet many parts left me frustrated. As much as I wanted and needed to, I didn’t feel a connection to Leigh & Gabe.
I wanted to love this, because Leigh.
She was awesome in the first book – loved her. But something was missing for me.
Even though I didn’t love this book, I’m positive it will be the perfect read for many others. Many parts I did enjoy.
**Milo was a great secondary character. I enjoyed the scenes he was in. Maybe he’ll get his own book? And I loved seeing Tempie and Elly again. This author always has great secondary characters. 🙂
Fixing Us by Miranda Elaine is the third book in her Fixing series. Emotional, complex, angtsy and romantic standalone contemporary romances. This is the story of two high school sweethearts, Gabe and Leigh, who end up splitting up. Gabe deems himself unworthy of Leigh based on his upbringing and thinks he’ll hold her back so he makes the unilateral decision to leave. Throughout the years that follow they are pulled back together again and again but it isn’t healthy and Gabe won’t stay. But just when Leigh is determined to quit Gabe she finds out she is pregnant with his child. With them agreeing to co-parent and remain friends, they begin to learn each other in a way they never had before in all their heated encounters and it makes staying friends all the harder. Well-written and well-paced, teeming with emotions and angst this book was awesome. Enjoy!
I am still relatively new to Miranda Elaine’s work and I am loving the two books I have read in the Fixing Series. Fixing Us is a standalone, second chance/unexpected pregnancy romance that’s told in the present while also weaving the couple’s past into the story. This dual POV is set in a small town, where Gabe Starr owns a tattoo shop and Leigh Simms owns a hair salon. The town is quaint, the relationships that exist within the story (including those with the secondary characters) are longstanding, deep and hilarious! I wasn’t expected to laugh so hard in this one, but that was definitely a pleasant surprise. The story is character driven in many ways. Gabe and Leigh have spent years in an on again/off again relationship—sometimes it’s a night, sometimes its months—but neither are able to exist without the other. Unplanned pregnancy notwithstanding, the pair have been primarily off for years. However Leigh’s spunky and sassy personality is deeply loving as well, and she’s never agreed with his rationale for crushing the dream they shared the night of her high school graduation. Gabe has a troubled past, one rife with deadbeat parents and his sure he’s going to bring Leigh down. I struggled to get into the story initially and as is the case with most small-town romances, the pace on this one is a little slower. As I mentioned previously, I’ve read the previous title in the series, Fixing Him, and enjoyed it immensely so I refused to allow the slower pace and struggle I experienced initially to keep me from reading and I am glad I persisted because the overall story was fantastic. After a few chapters, I was sufficiently sucked in and I finished it in one night. It’s an easy read, that’s beautifully written. I’ve discovered that I thoroughly enjoy Miranda’s writing and found Fixing Us to be a sweet, witty (to outright hilarious at moments) and sexy in spades romance that readers will love. A solid 4 star read for me!
“I hop on my bike and drive. I drive for hours, trying to wrap my brain around the fact that the only girl I have ever cared about is carrying my child and I have zero clue what to do with this information.”
Leigh Ann and Gabriel met in high school and became the perfect couple, against all expectations, for coming from such different worlds. Even young, they make plans for the future. These plans will start to shatter when a thud near the graduation hits the couple. And the young and passionate couple will separate, by Gabriel’s decision, that does not want to spoil Leigh’s future.
Time goes by, each one goes his own way, Gabriel owns his own tattoo studio, Leigh is a hairdresser. And the two are united by twelve years of endless casual encounters with each other, with short validity periods and a balance of broken hearts on both sides. The truth is they have always loved each other, but Gabriel has his own demons to deal with and so does not accept embarking on a relationship.
In a final farewell moment, as Leigh wants to get on with her life, passion takes over and a few months later, news that neither of the two expected comes to join or separate the two once and for all.
The book addresses such heavy topics as abandonment and alcoholism, but the writing is so subtle, that the themes blending the story, without delving into the drama, without being exaggerated, and contributing much to understand a little of the past of the characters.
Gabriel did not have an easy life and his struggle to continue on the right track was quite pleasurable to follow. His fears, doubts, and even need made him one of the most human characters I have ever come across. I felt his pain by making a mistake and giving up the progress made with so much effort.
Leigh is such a force. She has always loved this man, always hoped to have her happy ending, and even with adversities on her way she faces every obstacle to fight for her family.
Fixing Us is much more than a novel. It shows a real, human side, without flourishes of relationships, of life. It is pure and raw reality. And that’s its biggest hit.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
I really enjoyed this second chance love story. Sometimes it’s the right person, but the wrong time and I loved seeing these two figure everything out.
Miranda Elaine has done it again!! Loved Leigh and Gabe’s story.
I have been waiting for Leigh’s story since the first book in this series of standalones. Leigh is sassy, spunky and doesn’t take any crap. Enter Gabe. Gabe has been the one since Junior year when he started at Leigh’s high school. Even as he broke her heart, he has always had a place in it. When he comes back around will it be enough to make him hers again? Will the past ever be put to rest so they can have a future?
This was an awesome book!! I have enjoyed this author’s writing and look forward to many more stories from her.
I am loving the Fixing series by Miranda Elaine! In Fixing Us we get Gabriel and Leigh’s story. They were high school sweethearts that can’t seem to find their way. Leigh knows Gabe is the love of her life, but his past prevents him from giving himself to her. Instead he continuously breaks her heart. She knows she needs to move on and let him go. The last thing she expected was to find out she was pregnant. What are they to do?
Gabe has always loved Leigh, however, because of his childhood, he believes he is wrong for her, but can’t seem to ever truly let her go. The last thing he wants is to be a father, but when Leigh finds out she is pregnant, can they raise the child as friends? But as they spend time together, they realize what they feel for the other is so much more. Gabe was lost because of his past but was also such a strong man. Leigh was open and caring but could never seem to truly reach Gabe.
Fixing us by Miranda Elaine was an emotional story about second chances and hope. I loved Gabe and Leigh so very much. They were great characters with so much to give. Another great read in this series!
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
Awe Leigh and Gabe have had a tumultuous relationship that began in high school. Most of this story is present day but it goes back in time to give you key information that explain current events. I loved this style of writing. It gave a full picture of their history. I LOVE LOVE LOVE surprise baby stories. Wink.
Wow this story explores addiction, child abuse, foster care, and even some mental illness. It has several conflicts creating a rocky road soliciting all kinds of emotions. I felt at times it did feel overly romanticized. Some of these hard hitting topics are things that never go away or resolve themselves. Some of that is shown by the YEARS it takes this couple to figure their dukie out though I frequently saw that as their youth as well. Can you tell my momma was a therapist? (haha) I also realize this book would have to be A LOT longer to deal with all my expectations which makes it unfair to this author. Eek. Really though kudos cause holy heck she tackles tear your heart out topics.
It is a great read and I love the characters. Leigh cracks me up with her sarcasm and even Gabe had some hilarious moments. They both are deliciously spicy together. It was awesome getting glimpses of the characters from the other two books but you don’t have to read them to understand this one. I would though, read them that is (haha). They are awesome and fit well with this one. Hmmm I am hoping for a future book from Gabe’s roommate. I love him.
Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
This is the third book in this small town romance series of standalones, so I already loved Leigh from the previous books and was eager to read her story.
Gabriel and Leigh were high school sweethearts until he broke her heart on graduation day. They’re each other’s addiction, but any encounters end up with Gabe’s demons interfering causing more heartbreak for both of them. Gabe just doesn’t feel worthy of having love, family or a future with Leigh.
Leigh seems to find her way to his doorstep time and time again, but after a string of horrible dates, Leigh decides to knock on his door and swears it’s the very last time. However, when it results in a positive pregnancy test, they suddenly have to find a new normal. Friends seems like the best choice, but is it a realistic choice when there’s that much history and feelings involved?
A sweet second chance romance about two very likeable characters who deserve happiness.
Another great book from an author that has continually given me stories that have me falling in love with the characters and the storyline.
Fixing Us is the third book in the Fixing series but each one is a complete standalone, so you can dive right in. If you have read the previous books, you have already met Leigh, this is finally her story, but because this author loves to tug on our heartstrings, her story is not all warm and fuzzy.
Leigh and Gabe have been on and off since high school and his fears have always held him back. Now Leigh is tired of waiting. This is where their story gets intense and there is a bunch second and third thoughts but an accident brings them together…will it work this time though?
I highly recommend this book and actually the whole series, but feel free to jump right in here.
3.5 Angsty Emotional Stars
This is the third book in the series of standalones. Although the characters move along the series, you don’t have to read them all to be able to understand. If you have read the first two you already love Leigh and can’t wait for her story.
This is a true second change romance for this couple back from high school. However Gabe broke Leigh’s heart on graduation day. Determined that he was not good enough for her and would never be able to escape his past and where he comes from. Over the years they have been drawn back to each other and each time the hurt that is left behind gets a little worse.
Leigh is living the life she dreamed of except the lover of her life by her side and a family. She is smart and sassy, running her own business and damn good at what she does. But with her besties finding happiness she is starting to think it is time to move on once and for all. When she is feeling down though she finds herself on the familiar path to the one person she has never been able to let go, no matter how hard it hurts her each time. Drawn to him like a moth to a flame.
Gabe didn’t come from good stock, taken from his parents at the age of seven, floating through the system until he was old enough to be on his own. Sure he seems to have finally found his way thanks to a friend who saw more in him than he did. That doesn’t mean that he is anywhere to the point of thinking that he could ever be enough for the one woman has always owned his heart. He keeps an eye on her from a distance and trys to stay away.
When one night leads to the possibliity of so much more, will they be able to handle it. Will Gabe step up and be the man the Leigh always new he could be? Or will the stresses of the situation send him back to old ways? Is it possible after all this time that Gabe and Leigh can have thier HEA?
A good book with characters that will draw you into their story.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest reivew.***
Loved, Loved, Loved this book. Fixing us is heartbreaking, heartwarming, breathtaking and smoking hot all in one. It’s a must read. It’s beautifully written and the story is just absolutely heart melting good. This is from a new to me author and now a new favorite of mine. This one is on my best reads of 2019 book list.
Happy Reading Everyone!!
Loved, Loved, Loved this book. Fixing us is heartbreaking, heartwarming, breathtaking and smoking hot all in one. It’s a must read. It’s beautifully written and the story is just absolutely heart melting good. This is from a new to me author and now a new favorite of mine. This one is on my best reads of 2019 book list.
Happy Reading Everyone!!
I would say these books are getting better and better but I really do love every single one of them. Although I do believe this one may be my favorite one,maybe tomorrow it might be a different couple. But Gabe and Leigh really touched a special spot in my heart. They had such a rough and trying road to get to where they were going. And Gabe feeling unworthy of live and affection. I can totally connect with that and it’s hard to break that inside you no matter the circumstances that made you believe that. And Leigh felt like all she did was beat her head against the wall to show him they could work. She would say she was done but she couldn’t stay away but he kept breaking her heart. Could they ever get on the same page? This book was such a heart twister of a book that will RIP it to pieces but it also had that girlfriend companionship that had me rolling!! I loved this book and 5 stars just doesn’t come near enough to being what this book deserves can I say 10 or what about 100!!! I highly recommend this book and this series and I hope there is more to come. – By Tina
After reading the first two books in this series of connected standalones by Miranda, I was really eager to get to Leigh’s story.
Leigh and Gabriel have known each other since high school, where they were sweethearts convinced they’d be together forever. But, Gabe smashed that dream on the day they graduated and ever since then they’ve come back together and broken up due to his demons causing havoc and insecurity in his mind.
After one final date, Leigh is done, but fate takes a hand and changes everything.
Forced to see a new reality and a lifetime of commitment together, they finally decide to really make a go of their tortured relationship.
Can they really make it though, when they have struggled before?
Gabe and Leigh give it their all and it was heartwarming to see them grow as time progressed. It wasn’t always easy given who they were but with the undeniable chemistry and love they share they got the ending we were all hoping for. Getting to see more of Kade and Temperance, as well as Sam and Montana was fun too. I loved catching up with earlier characters in a series.
Yet another great book from Miranda Elaine. Well worth a One-Click.
Fixing Us was an emotional journey. I was wrecked in the very first chapter and I want to leave you with one word; prepare.
Yes, it ends with a HEA, because let’s face it, unless you are reading a book that knowingly ends with a cliffhanger and then the next book better resolve itself. The reason we read romance books is to eventually get our happily ever afters. As readers, we get very upset, if we don’t get that satisfied ending. So, that is not what I’m warning against. Fixing Us will wring you out over and over and then leave you emotionally wrecked for days kind of read (in a good way, but still). Prepare.
Gabriel Starr was put into the foster system at a very young age. With two very dysfunctional parents and then a foster system that shuffled him from home to home. He never learns how to love, how to be loved, or what love means. It isn’t until he meets Leigh Ann Simms in high school that someone sees beyond the poor, lost boy that even he begins to allow himself to dream. But Gabe doesn’t believe in himself enough to dream beyond the walls of high school so he walks away from the one person who was good in his life to allow Leigh to pursue her future, even if her future was to have him in it.
It would take over twelve years, a lot of heartache, and the reality that perhaps Gabe and Leigh should just be friends. They have a broken pattern of falling into where Leigh seeks Gabe out, he takes her back, but when she pushes him for more, he walks away. Reaching thirty and Leigh decides it time to finally move on from those shattered dreams. Time to move on from the heartache. Time to move on from the pattern she’s established with the only man she’s ever loved in her life. Can she do it? It’s time to finally fix her heart.
How much can our heart handle?
What tests can the spirit endure?
Can you fix a relationship that’s been fractured over and over?
Perhaps those answers need to come when you stop looking outward and finally fix what’s inside.
Fixing Us is emotional and held so much more than I was expecting. As a hero, Gabe isn’t just broken; he’s been neglected, abused, unloved, the opposite of everything a child should receive and experience which scars him deeply. He doesn’t feel worthy of Leigh’s love, nor help and the reason is so profound it will break your heart. Gabe will tear through your emotional soul like tissue paper, so once again; prepare. (you will have a book hangover with this one)
Miranda Elaine once again brought out allllllll the feels with Fixing Us. I seriously cannot get enough of this series. Having already adored the sassy and sweet Leigh I went into this super excited, but I still was not ready for just how much I loved this book! I always adore a good second chance, but this, THIS, is what second chance is meant to be. Leigh and Gabe have that once in a lifetime connection but they also have years of things to work through to find their happy.
Two people who know each other so well but at the same time have so much to learn about each other also. I adored how there was not only real heart but real work in them coming back together. That slow build full of team work, love, and healing not only themselves but each other is utter perfection!
Wow! This latest book is everything I love in a contemporary romance! It has humor, it has heart and it has heat and a touch of angst and you have the perfect combination!
This is Gabe and Leigh’s story. The one I have been waiting for….not so patiently….LOL!
We had hints and glimpses of the two of them in the other stories in the Fixing series and I so wanted to know more about them. And Ms. Elaine gives us their story in spades!
Gabe and Leigh have a long and bumpy history, filled with highs and lows. Gabe trying to do what he thinks is right and Leigh trying to show Gabe is is everything she needs. It takes years and growth of the both of them individually that really brings them full circle. Well that and a surprise that neither saw coming.
The chemistry between Gabe and Leigh is phenomenal! And when you find out how Gabe truly feels about Leigh and what he has gone through will make you fall in love with him as hard as Leigh does!
I love Leigh’s independent nature, her tell it like it is attitude and her weakness when it comes to Gabe. It’s hard to stay strong when she has a man like Gabe in her life.
I love how you see characters from her previous stories make appearances! This doesn’t take away from the main story, but just adds more to it! To have a tribe of friends and family like that is what everyone wants!
I absolutely flove this series by Ms. Elaine and cannot wait to see what comes next!
Final Score – 4.5 Stars!
Gabe … oh my sweet Gabe didn’t have an easy childhood and so he thinks that happily ever after isn’t in the cards for him – even after finding his other half, his true soulmate Leigh. This leads him to walk away from her time and time again, yet ultimately it also leads him back to her time and time again also. Over the course of twelve long years. The constant push and pull is wearing on both of them and Leigh has finally had enough and wants a clean break. But she wants just one more moment with Gabe to say goodbye forever, never realizing that that goodbye was in fact a new beginning for the both of them.
Fixing Us is the third book in a series of standalones by Miranda Elaine, two of which I have now had the pleasure of reading. This book got me right in the heartstrings as it is a second chance romance and I’m just a sucker for those. Ms. Elaine has weaved a tale spanning twelve years – 12 YEARS! – of a couples highs and lows from the first blossom of young love to the ultimate heartbreak to finding that spark of hope and rebuilding that love again – on a stronger foundation and better than before. This is a fantastic, not to be missed second chance romance!