Plot Summary
Coffee Catastrophe and First Impressions
Meredith, eager to try her first coffee, ends up spitting it all over Levi, a brooding bike shop manager, at McDonald's. Their awkward encounter is both mortifying and oddly magnetic, setting the tone for their dynamic. Meredith's zest for new experiences clashes with Levi's cautious, routine-driven life. Despite the mess, a spark ignites—one that neither can ignore. Meredith's innocence and honesty intrigue Levi, while his gruff exterior and hidden warmth draw her in. This accidental meeting, full of embarrassment and laughter, becomes the unlikely beginning of a story about stepping outside comfort zones and embracing the unpredictable.
Worry, Family, and Cinnamon Rolls
Levi's life is defined by responsibility—caring for his recovering mother, supporting his siblings, and running the family bike shop. His anxiety and need for control are rooted in past trauma and a deep sense of duty. The cinnamon roll ritual with his mother is a symbol of his love and worry. Levi's interactions with his family reveal his protective nature and the loneliness that comes from always putting others first. Meanwhile, Meredith's own family is distant, her mother gone and her father overprotective, leaving her craving connection and independence. Their contrasting upbringings set the stage for mutual growth.
Lists, Parks, and New Beginnings
Meredith, new to Coeur d'Alene, is determined to live fully by checking off her "list of twenty-three"—one item for each year she's missed out on. The list is both a rebellion against her sheltered upbringing and a roadmap to self-discovery. In the park, she meets kind strangers and contemplates her next adventure: learning to ride a bike. Her optimism and openness contrast with Levi's guardedness. The list becomes a narrative device, propelling her into new situations and relationships, and ultimately, toward Levi.
Bike Shop Encounters
Meredith's attempt to buy a bike from Levi is as clumsy as her coffee incident. She's never ridden before, and her vulnerability is both endearing and exasperating to Levi. Their banter is laced with humor and tension—she's persistent, he's reluctant. Levi's protective instincts kick in, but so does his attraction. Meredith's determination to learn, despite repeated falls, challenges Levi's assumptions about her—and about himself. The bike shop becomes a space where both are forced to confront their fears and desires.
YouTube Fails and Cookie Trials
Meredith's solo attempts to ride her bike end in bruises and frustration. She turns to YouTube for help, but it's no substitute for real guidance. Meanwhile, she tries baking cookies as a bribe for Levi's help, but her efforts are hilariously disastrous. Her uncle Bob, a reclusive writer, encourages her to seek expertise—nudging her back to Levi. These failures are not setbacks but steps toward connection, humility, and the courage to ask for help.
Cookie Bribes and Bike Lessons
Meredith returns to the bike shop, offering cookies in exchange for lessons. Levi, initially resistant, is swayed by her sincerity (and his niece Alice's enthusiasm for cookies). Their lessons are filled with mishaps, laughter, and growing intimacy. Levi's family—especially his sister Coco—sees the chemistry and gently meddles. The lessons become about more than biking; they're about trust, letting go, and allowing oneself to be vulnerable. Each session brings them closer, blurring the lines between teacher and friend.
Stitches, Scar Stories, and Vulnerability
A bad fall lands Meredith in the ER, with Levi by her side, wracked with guilt. As she gets stitches, they share stories of scars—physical and emotional. Levi opens up about his family's struggles, his mother's illness, and his own fears of inadequacy. Meredith reveals the origins of her list and her longing to live without fear. Their mutual vulnerability deepens their bond, transforming embarrassment and pain into empathy and trust.
Healing, Friendship, and Salty Cookies
As Meredith heals, she continues her quest for connection—befriending Nikki, a lonely teenager, and perfecting her cookie recipe with help from others. Levi checks in, their banter now tinged with affection and longing. The salty cookies become a running joke, symbolizing Meredith's persistence and willingness to laugh at herself. The community she builds—Bob, Nikki, Levi's family—becomes her chosen family, filling the void left by her overprotective father.
The List Revealed
After finally learning to ride her bike, Meredith fulfills her promise to show Levi her list. The act of sharing it is intimate and brave—she's exposing her deepest hopes and insecurities. Levi is moved by her honesty and the simplicity of her dreams. He realizes how much he wants to help her achieve them, not out of obligation, but out of love. The list becomes a symbol of their partnership—each item a step toward a fuller, shared life.
Lessons, Laughter, and Family
Levi's family embraces Meredith, inviting her into their chaotic, loving world. A game of football in the park becomes a microcosm of their dynamic—competition, teasing, and support. Levi's jealousy flares when others show interest in Meredith, forcing him to confront his feelings. The family's acceptance and meddling push Levi and Meredith closer, but also highlight the challenges of blending lives and expectations.
Tandem Rides and Dinner Invitations
Levi invites Meredith on a tandem bike ride, symbolizing trust and partnership. The ride is exhilarating and intimate, breaking down remaining barriers. Dinner at Levi's house is both ordinary and profound—a glimpse of domesticity and belonging. They share stories, dreams, and fears, realizing how much they complement and challenge each other. The meal is a turning point, marking the shift from friendship to something deeper.
Crepes, Confessions, and Connection
A spontaneous outing for crepes becomes a confessional. They swap stories about missed opportunities, regrets, and what they want from life. Meredith's candor inspires Levi to admit his own dreams and disappointments. Their connection deepens as they realize they're both searching for meaning and joy, albeit in different ways. The crepes—sweet and unexpected—mirror the surprises of their relationship.
Yoga, Guilt, and Letting Go
Meredith drags Levi to yoga, hoping to improve her balance and help him release his guilt over the past. The class is comically challenging for Levi, but it becomes a metaphor for flexibility and letting go. They talk about family wounds, the burden of responsibility, and the need to forgive oneself. Yoga becomes a catalyst for change—helping Levi see that he deserves happiness, too.
Breakthroughs and Butterflies
After yoga, Meredith finally rides her bike solo—an achievement that fills her with pride and Levi with awe. They celebrate together, sharing a moment of pure joy. Levi sees the world through Meredith's eyes—full of possibility and wonder. The "butterflies" he feels are no longer just nerves, but the flutterings of love and hope. Their relationship is transformed by this breakthrough, as both realize they're capable of more than they imagined.
Football, Family, and Jealousy
A family football game brings out Levi's competitive and protective sides. When Meredith is paired with his brother Owen, Levi's jealousy surfaces, forcing him to confront his true feelings. The game is playful but charged, highlighting the complexities of blending families and navigating new relationships. Levi's struggle with jealousy and vulnerability becomes a turning point—he must decide whether to risk his heart or retreat into old patterns.
Misunderstandings and Heartbreak
Miscommunication and Levi's fear of not being "enough" for Meredith lead to a painful breakup. Both are devastated—Meredith feels rejected and questions her worth, while Levi is consumed by regret and self-doubt. Their separation is marked by longing, missed connections, and the ache of unfinished business. Friends and family offer support, but only Meredith and Levi can decide whether to fight for their love or let it go.
Moving On and New Spaces
Meredith moves into her own place, determined to keep living and growing, even with a broken heart. She builds a life filled with friends, new experiences, and self-reliance. Levi, meanwhile, is forced to confront his own patterns—realizing that protecting others has kept him from truly living. Both struggle with loneliness and the fear of repeating past mistakes, but their journeys are marked by resilience and hope.
Double Dates and Second Chances
A well-intentioned double date orchestrated by Coco throws Meredith and Levi back into each other's orbit. Old feelings resurface, and their chemistry is undeniable. Jealousy, humor, and honesty collide as they navigate the awkwardness of seeing each other with other people. The night forces them to confront what they truly want—and what they're willing to risk for love.
Truths, Choices, and Reunions
A moonlit walk and a heart-to-heart conversation finally break down the last of Levi's defenses. Meredith insists on her right to choose her own happiness, and Levi admits his love for her. They acknowledge their differences and agree to face life's uncertainties together. Their reunion is passionate and tender—a celebration of vulnerability, courage, and the power of choosing each other, flaws and all.
Living, Loving, and Lists Completed
With their relationship solidified, Meredith and Levi continue to tackle her list—and create new ones together. They move into neighboring homes, blend their families, and support each other's dreams. The story ends with a tribute band concert, a nod to Meredith's wish to "see John Lennon live," and a promise to keep living boldly. Their love is imperfect but real—a testament to the beauty of embracing life, scars and all, with open arms and an open heart.
Analysis
Levi Bailey Has Butterflies is a heartfelt, comedic exploration of what it means to truly live—and love—after years of fear, loss, and self-protection. At its core, the novel is about agency: Meredith's list is a declaration of independence, a refusal to let fear or the past dictate her future. Levi's journey is the mirror image—learning that caring for others does not mean sacrificing oneself, and that vulnerability is not weakness but the gateway to joy. The alternating perspectives invite readers to empathize with both characters' wounds and hopes, making their eventual union feel earned and deeply satisfying. The story's humor, warmth, and emotional honesty make it accessible and resonant, while its focus on family, friendship, and chosen community grounds the romance in a broader context of healing and belonging. Ultimately, the novel argues that living fully means embracing both the risk of pain and the possibility of wonder—that scars are not just reminders of suffering, but proof of courage and love. The lesson is clear: happiness is not the absence of fear or failure, but the willingness to keep moving forward, together, butterflies and all.
Characters
Meredith Porter
Meredith is a 23-year-old woman who has lived a sheltered life due to her father's overprotection after her mother's death. Her "list of twenty-three" is both a rebellion and a roadmap—a way to claim agency and experience the world on her own terms. Meredith is open, honest, and unafraid to be vulnerable, even when it leads to embarrassment or pain. Her optimism is infectious, drawing people in and inspiring them to take risks. She craves connection and meaning, and her journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and learning to balance independence with intimacy. Her relationship with Levi is transformative—she challenges his caution, while he grounds her exuberance. Meredith's growth is marked by her willingness to embrace both joy and heartbreak, ultimately choosing to live—and love—without fear.
Levi Bailey
Levi, 29, is the eldest of four siblings and the de facto caretaker of his family after his mother's illness and his father's abandonment. His life is structured around responsibility, routine, and worry—a shield against chaos and loss. Levi's gruff exterior hides a tender heart and a longing for connection. He is slow to trust and quick to protect, often at the expense of his own happiness. Meeting Meredith disrupts his carefully ordered world, forcing him to confront his fears and desires. Levi's journey is one of letting go—of guilt, control, and the belief that he must always sacrifice for others. Through Meredith, he learns to embrace vulnerability, accept love, and pursue his own dreams. His arc is a testament to the power of healing, forgiveness, and the courage to choose happiness.
Bob Allen (Uncle Bob)
Bob is Meredith's uncle and a successful, introverted writer who becomes her surrogate parent after her mother's death. He is a keen observer of people, offering guidance through stories, metaphors, and gentle nudges rather than direct advice. Bob's own grief and solitude shape his worldview, but he encourages Meredith to live boldly and make her own choices. His presence is grounding—a safe haven and a source of wisdom. Bob's arc is subtle, showing that healing and growth are possible at any age, and that love can take many forms.
Coco Bailey
Levi's sister Coco is a force of nature—pregnant, energetic, and unafraid to meddle in her brothers' lives for their own good. She is the bridge between Levi's past and present, pushing him to open up and embrace change. Coco's own journey—from estranged sibling to beloved sister, wife, and mother—mirrors the themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances. Her humor and directness provide comic relief and emotional clarity, making her a catalyst for growth in both Levi and Meredith.
Alice
Levi's young niece, Alice, is a source of light and laughter. Her innocence and honesty cut through adult complications, offering perspective and hope. Alice's relationship with Levi is especially poignant—she is both his responsibility and his joy, reminding him of the importance of play, wonder, and unconditional love.
Nikki
Nikki, a 13-year-old girl Meredith befriends, is struggling with bullying and isolation. Her friendship with Meredith is mutually healing—Nikki gains confidence and support, while Meredith learns the value of intergenerational connection and the impact of small acts of kindness. Nikki's arc is one of finding her voice and realizing she deserves happiness, too.
Lucy Bailey
Levi's mother, Lucy, is the heart of the Bailey family. Her recovery from illness is both a literal and symbolic turning point—her regained independence forces Levi to reevaluate his role and purpose. Lucy's wisdom and warmth anchor the family, and her encouragement helps Levi and Meredith find their way to each other.
Miles Bailey
Levi's younger brother Miles is an artist and a calming presence in the family. He is supportive, insightful, and often serves as a sounding board for Levi. Miles's own journey—finding his place in the family and the world—parallels the themes of self-discovery and acceptance.
Cooper Bailey
The youngest Bailey brother, Cooper, brings humor and energy to the family dynamic. His teasing and antics provide levity, but he is also deeply loyal and supportive. Cooper's presence highlights the importance of sibling bonds and the ways in which family shapes identity.
Jude
Jude, Coco's husband and Alice's stepfather, is a model of quiet strength and devotion. His integration into the Bailey family is seamless, and his support for Coco and Alice exemplifies the power of chosen family. Jude's stability and kindness offer a counterpoint to Levi's anxiety, showing that love can be both gentle and strong.
Plot Devices
The List
Meredith's "list of twenty-three" is the central narrative device, structuring the plot and symbolizing her quest for agency, experience, and self-actualization. Each item on the list propels her into new situations, relationships, and challenges. The list is both literal and metaphorical—a way to measure progress, confront fears, and invite others into her journey. It serves as a catalyst for character development, romantic tension, and thematic exploration of risk, vulnerability, and the meaning of living fully.
Dual Perspectives
The story is told in alternating chapters from Meredith's and Levi's points of view, allowing readers to experience their inner worlds, misunderstandings, and growth in real time. This structure creates dramatic irony, emotional resonance, and a nuanced portrayal of how two people can experience the same events differently. It also highlights the importance of communication, empathy, and the courage to see oneself through another's eyes.
Humor and Embarrassment
Awkward, funny, and embarrassing moments—spilled coffee, failed bike rides, salty cookies—are used to break down defenses and foster connection. Humor becomes a coping mechanism, a way to navigate vulnerability, and a signal of authenticity. These moments humanize the characters, making their struggles and triumphs relatable and endearing.
Family as Foil and Catalyst
The Bailey family is both a source of support and a crucible for change. Their meddling, teasing, and unconditional love force Levi and Meredith to confront their fears, challenge their assumptions, and embrace new possibilities. Family gatherings, rituals, and conflicts serve as microcosms of the larger themes—belonging, forgiveness, and the messiness of love.
Symbolism of Bikes and Butterflies
Bikes represent freedom, risk, and the journey toward self-reliance. Learning to ride is a rite of passage for Meredith and a metaphor for letting go for Levi. Butterflies symbolize transformation, beauty, and the fleeting nature of moments. Both motifs reinforce the themes of growth, change, and the courage to embrace the unknown.
Foreshadowing and Callbacks
Early scenes—like the coffee spill and Meredith's first bike lesson—foreshadow later breakthroughs and setbacks. The list itself is a constant callback, with each completed item marking a milestone in the characters' arcs. Family advice, jokes, and shared memories recur, creating a sense of continuity and deepening emotional impact.
The "Almost Kiss" and Delayed Gratification
The romance is marked by near-misses, misunderstandings, and delayed fulfillment. These moments heighten anticipation, deepen emotional stakes, and make the eventual union more satisfying. The "almost kiss" becomes a symbol of longing, fear, and the slow, sometimes painful process of opening one's heart.
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