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Leade Park #1
The Write Place
Finding love is finding where you belong.
Mackenzie Milcrest–Miss Mac to her students–is a high school English teacher, comfortable with her job, her life, and her place in the world. The only thing she loves more than her students is a good book and a quiet night alone to cozy up and read. She’s happy…
Or, at least, she thinks she is.
Daniel Evans is a world-famous writer—and for good reason. Over ten years ago, when he was still a teenager, his first book became a runaway hit, and readers have not stopped asking for more ever since. Now, a decade later, he’s rich. Charming. Handsome…
He’s also suffering from a massive writer’s block.
Desperate to shake things up, Daniel employs the help of his publisher, who only has to pull a couple of strings to get him a front-row seat to his next novel’s setting: a public high school.
All he has to do is sit in Mac’s classroom every day and shadow her every move.
Strictly in the name of research, of course.
The problem is, Mac can’t keep acting like he’s invisible. Not when the pull he has on her grows stronger every second.
Falling in love with Daniel Evans is not in Mac’s lesson plan, but can she ignore how beautifully their stories intertwine?
Mackenzie Milcrest–Miss Mac to her students–is a high school English teacher, comfortable with her job, her life, and her place in the world. The only thing she loves more than her students is a good book and a quiet night alone to cozy up and read. She’s happy…
Or, at least, she thinks she is.
Daniel Evans is a world-famous writer—and for good reason. Over ten years ago, when he was still a teenager, his first book became a runaway hit, and readers have not stopped asking for more ever since. Now, a decade later, he’s rich. Charming. Handsome…
He’s also suffering from a massive writer’s block.
Desperate to shake things up, Daniel employs the help of his publisher, who only has to pull a couple of strings to get him a front-row seat to his next novel’s setting: a public high school.
All he has to do is sit in Mac’s classroom every day and shadow her every move.
Strictly in the name of research, of course.
The problem is, Mac can’t keep acting like he’s invisible. Not when the pull he has on her grows stronger every second.
Falling in love with Daniel Evans is not in Mac’s lesson plan, but can she ignore how beautifully their stories intertwine?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2023
445 people are currently reading
4980 people want to read
About the author
Allie Samberts
13 books309 followersAllie Samberts is a romance writer, book lover, and high school English teacher. She was voted funniest teacher of the year for 2023 by her students, which is probably her highest honor to date. She is also a runner, and enjoys knitting and sewing. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, two kids, and a very loud beagle. You can follow her on Instagram @alliesambertswrites, read her blog at alliesamberts.substack.com, and get other updates at www.alliesamberts.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 419 reviews
March 18, 2023
I received an arc of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review!
This is genuinely one of the cutest romcoms I’ve read in quite awhile and the swoon worthy male lead far exceeded my expectations. I adored our main character as well as the strong female friendship represented throughout the story. This book truly is a love letter to readers, writers, teachers, and those of us who really do know hopelessly difficult it is to find a partner who embodies the swoon worthyness of those leads we read in our romance novels.
Tropes included:
Workplace romance
Only one bed/forced proximity
Hidden Identity
Open door (a handful of delightful spicy scenes) 🌶️
Cozy romcom
LGBTQIA+ representation (both with Mac’s students and Daniel’s adoptive writer mom)
I’m so thankful Allie sent me a copy to read before the book’s release date and hope everyone runs to read it when it releases on April 11th!
This is genuinely one of the cutest romcoms I’ve read in quite awhile and the swoon worthy male lead far exceeded my expectations. I adored our main character as well as the strong female friendship represented throughout the story. This book truly is a love letter to readers, writers, teachers, and those of us who really do know hopelessly difficult it is to find a partner who embodies the swoon worthyness of those leads we read in our romance novels.
Tropes included:
Workplace romance
Only one bed/forced proximity
Hidden Identity
Open door (a handful of delightful spicy scenes) 🌶️
Cozy romcom
LGBTQIA+ representation (both with Mac’s students and Daniel’s adoptive writer mom)
I’m so thankful Allie sent me a copy to read before the book’s release date and hope everyone runs to read it when it releases on April 11th!
April 13, 2023
Fena değildi. İngiliz Edebiyatı öğretmeni Mac, yazmak konusunda sorunlar yaşayan ünlü yazar Daniel arasında gelişen olayları konu alıyor. Kısa olduğu için detaylara çok yer verilmemiş, karakter derinliği de pek işlenmemiş ama yine de fena değildi.
Mac daha öncesinde bir kayıp yaşadığı için birine bağlanma konusunda endişeli.Daniel ise hem iş hem özel hayatında kendini yetersiz hissettiren bir ilişki sonrası biraz çekimser ve tereddütlü.Aynı sınıfta ve ortamda zaman geçirdikçe karşılarına çıkan durumlarla başa çıkma yöntemleri ele alınmış.
Mac daha öncesinde bir kayıp yaşadığı için birine bağlanma konusunda endişeli.Daniel ise hem iş hem özel hayatında kendini yetersiz hissettiren bir ilişki sonrası biraz çekimser ve tereddütlü.Aynı sınıfta ve ortamda zaman geçirdikçe karşılarına çıkan durumlarla başa çıkma yöntemleri ele alınmış.
April 23, 2023
Je voulais aimer et continuer ce livre mais il ne passe pas la règle des 50 pages. Je me suis rendue à la page 72 mais malheureusement ce livre n'est pas pour moi. J'ai arrêté ma lecture à 25%. J'ai dépassé la règle des 50 pages pour lui donner une chance mais j'ai arrêté.
Ce livre suit l'histoire d'une enseignante, Mac, qui rencontre un homme séduisant, Evans, dans un bar et l'embrasse mais qui décide de partir sans prévoir le revoir. Cependant, le lendemain elle a la surprise de le voir à son lieu de travail. Elle apprend qu'il est un écrivain connu et qu'il fait de la recherche pour son prochain livre. Son patron lui demande s'il peut l'observer quand elle travaille puisqu'il écrit un livre portant sur l'enseignement.
Je trouve que l'histoire était quand même simple mais efficace. Le concept de l'histoire était quand même bien. C'est sûr que c'est le classique de : deux personnes se rencontrent, ont une chimie de feu mais ne veulent pas se revoir et se revoient le lendemain. J'ai trouvé ça assez spécial puisque leur première rencontre était décrite comme étant parfaite et agréable mais la protagoniste décide qu'elle n'aime pas Evans pour aucune raison. J'ai été déçue parce que toutes les fois qu'ils se voient tout se passe bien mais Mac est décidée de ne pas l'aimer et de lui faire de l'attitude pour aucune raison.
Les dialogues des personnages ne sont pas réalistes. Souvent, les personnages s'échangent quelques mots et sont décrits comme partant à rire comme ça se peut pas comme si c'était les choses les plus hilarantes au monde. Mais ça donne une vibe bizarre parce que bien que c'est cocasse ce n'est pas hilarant.
Mac a un énorme défaut selon mon opinion de lectrice : elle est "not like the other girls". Elle est belle même si elle s'habille mal et ne fait pas d'efforts pour bien paraître. Elle est gentille même si elle essaie de ne pas l'être. Evans s'intéresse à elle mais sans jamais dire pourquoi? Ça m'a refroidie assez vite.
Bref, bien que ce livre ait une histoire et une structure intéressante il n'était pas pour moi.
Ce livre suit l'histoire d'une enseignante, Mac, qui rencontre un homme séduisant, Evans, dans un bar et l'embrasse mais qui décide de partir sans prévoir le revoir. Cependant, le lendemain elle a la surprise de le voir à son lieu de travail. Elle apprend qu'il est un écrivain connu et qu'il fait de la recherche pour son prochain livre. Son patron lui demande s'il peut l'observer quand elle travaille puisqu'il écrit un livre portant sur l'enseignement.
Je trouve que l'histoire était quand même simple mais efficace. Le concept de l'histoire était quand même bien. C'est sûr que c'est le classique de : deux personnes se rencontrent, ont une chimie de feu mais ne veulent pas se revoir et se revoient le lendemain. J'ai trouvé ça assez spécial puisque leur première rencontre était décrite comme étant parfaite et agréable mais la protagoniste décide qu'elle n'aime pas Evans pour aucune raison. J'ai été déçue parce que toutes les fois qu'ils se voient tout se passe bien mais Mac est décidée de ne pas l'aimer et de lui faire de l'attitude pour aucune raison.
Les dialogues des personnages ne sont pas réalistes. Souvent, les personnages s'échangent quelques mots et sont décrits comme partant à rire comme ça se peut pas comme si c'était les choses les plus hilarantes au monde. Mais ça donne une vibe bizarre parce que bien que c'est cocasse ce n'est pas hilarant.
Mac a un énorme défaut selon mon opinion de lectrice : elle est "not like the other girls". Elle est belle même si elle s'habille mal et ne fait pas d'efforts pour bien paraître. Elle est gentille même si elle essaie de ne pas l'être. Evans s'intéresse à elle mais sans jamais dire pourquoi? Ça m'a refroidie assez vite.
Bref, bien que ce livre ait une histoire et une structure intéressante il n'était pas pour moi.
March 10, 2023
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Write Place is a romcom about a high school English teacher and a novelist. Mac, a high school English teacher, is living a comfortable life when she meets a novelist, Daniel, who is lost in his career and a romantic spark between them ensues. This book is funny and intelligent. As someone who used to be a teacher, I really admired how realistic Mac’s teaching career was portrayed—this part was not romanticized at all, and I loved that about it. The subplots were really sweet and I felt an instant pull to both main characters. I appreciated Mac’s dry humor and her zingers interspersed throughout the novel. Finally, while this did not factor into my review, I have to disclose that the novel is set in the Chicago suburbs, which is a plus, because Chicago is my favorite city.
Please pre-order this funny and sweet novel, The Write Place, which releases on April 11, 2023.
The Write Place is a romcom about a high school English teacher and a novelist. Mac, a high school English teacher, is living a comfortable life when she meets a novelist, Daniel, who is lost in his career and a romantic spark between them ensues. This book is funny and intelligent. As someone who used to be a teacher, I really admired how realistic Mac’s teaching career was portrayed—this part was not romanticized at all, and I loved that about it. The subplots were really sweet and I felt an instant pull to both main characters. I appreciated Mac’s dry humor and her zingers interspersed throughout the novel. Finally, while this did not factor into my review, I have to disclose that the novel is set in the Chicago suburbs, which is a plus, because Chicago is my favorite city.
Please pre-order this funny and sweet novel, The Write Place, which releases on April 11, 2023.
September 12, 2023
okur this was cute. bad writing! boring characters! i think the story/plot itself was a very cute idea but the execution was mid as hell unfortunately. both of these people need therapy. and i have 0 interest in reading the next book about ben and jenny goodbye
October 19, 2023
Not my cup of tea.
May 1, 2025
4.5 Super cute romance between a teacher and an author who is struggling from writers block and is shadowing her class for 6 weeks. However they meet before they find out they will be working alongside one another. I couldn’t put it down! So glad I stumbled upon this author. I loved the immediate connection then the slow burn.
July 24, 2023
3.75 💌
September 5, 2023
Wow. Just, wow.
As an avid reader, this is the book I needed at this very moment.
I’ve been debating whether to take the plunge and get my teaching license. I’ve worked in schools and with kids for nearly my entire work history. But like Daniel, I feel an impostor syndrome holding me down. I don’t have an Alison to take hits from, but my imposter syndrome is there, nonetheless.
But when I read how Mac feels about teaching, it invigorates me. You can tell that the author is an English teacher. The love for her students is evident. The teacher drama in departmental meetings is honestly true. Either the meeting is boring or drama filled. While I don’t work in a high school, meetings are the same.
The romance is definitely not the reason I stayed for this book. I mean, it was great. I loved that bonus chapter at the end from Daniel’s perspective. But what was so refreshing was the obvious consent culture normalized in this book. Even the spicy part. I mean, I kind of skimmed through that part because I was eager to find out what happens after that night. Clearly this is where it was headed, but I needed to know what was going to make Mac disappear into herself so she can clearly figure out how she felt about Daniel.
The space he gives her after the presentation at the school, was frustrating. I wondered why he didn’t go to her to plead his case. But that’s the rub of consent culture. He asked for consent by texting and trying to call, but she made it clear that it wasn’t welcome by not responding in any way. So he backed off. In retrospect, that is a much better response and added to the tragic romance.
Also, who wouldn’t love to have a best friend like Jenny? She asks “what kind of commiserating” Mac wants. Much better than my go to “what do you need?” Plus, I bet Ben wished Jenny busted his knee caps, if that meant she would forgive him for his monumentally dumb moment. She’s loyal, decisive, honest, and most importantly herself. She compliments Mac’s personality so well.
Except from the book:
“Good writers evoke feelings in us,” I say as I make my way back to the front of the room. “That’s the beauty of literature. It makes us feel. Or maybe a better description is that it allows us to feel in a safe space. Since it’s fiction, it’s safe to feel an entire range of emotion we may otherwise hold ourselves back from in real life. Good writing evokes this in us, and good writers know how to make it happen.
Allie Samberts’ The Write Place is definitely an example of a good writer evoking feelings that I definitely did hold back from myself in real life, or at the very least, willfully leaving those feelings uninvestigated.
As an avid reader, this is the book I needed at this very moment.
I’ve been debating whether to take the plunge and get my teaching license. I’ve worked in schools and with kids for nearly my entire work history. But like Daniel, I feel an impostor syndrome holding me down. I don’t have an Alison to take hits from, but my imposter syndrome is there, nonetheless.
But when I read how Mac feels about teaching, it invigorates me. You can tell that the author is an English teacher. The love for her students is evident. The teacher drama in departmental meetings is honestly true. Either the meeting is boring or drama filled. While I don’t work in a high school, meetings are the same.
The romance is definitely not the reason I stayed for this book. I mean, it was great. I loved that bonus chapter at the end from Daniel’s perspective. But what was so refreshing was the obvious consent culture normalized in this book. Even the spicy part. I mean, I kind of skimmed through that part because I was eager to find out what happens after that night. Clearly this is where it was headed, but I needed to know what was going to make Mac disappear into herself so she can clearly figure out how she felt about Daniel.
The space he gives her after the presentation at the school, was frustrating. I wondered why he didn’t go to her to plead his case. But that’s the rub of consent culture. He asked for consent by texting and trying to call, but she made it clear that it wasn’t welcome by not responding in any way. So he backed off. In retrospect, that is a much better response and added to the tragic romance.
Also, who wouldn’t love to have a best friend like Jenny? She asks “what kind of commiserating” Mac wants. Much better than my go to “what do you need?” Plus, I bet Ben wished Jenny busted his knee caps, if that meant she would forgive him for his monumentally dumb moment. She’s loyal, decisive, honest, and most importantly herself. She compliments Mac’s personality so well.
Except from the book:
“Good writers evoke feelings in us,” I say as I make my way back to the front of the room. “That’s the beauty of literature. It makes us feel. Or maybe a better description is that it allows us to feel in a safe space. Since it’s fiction, it’s safe to feel an entire range of emotion we may otherwise hold ourselves back from in real life. Good writing evokes this in us, and good writers know how to make it happen.
Allie Samberts’ The Write Place is definitely an example of a good writer evoking feelings that I definitely did hold back from myself in real life, or at the very least, willfully leaving those feelings uninvestigated.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
it's a very cute romcom but it's not wow
it's a very cute romcom but it's not wow
February 9, 2025
Novelist Daniel Evans suffers from writer’s block. His next book is due and his publisher is on his case. He needs some space to think, research, write. He can’t find that in NYC.
He ends up at a desk in the back of Mackenzie Milcrest’s classroom in a suburb of Chicago, watching her teach English, scribbling in his notebook, trying to figure it all out.
Miss Mac, as she’s lovingly called by her students, isn’t thrilled by this interruption to her classroom, her routine, her grief, but she wants the trade off - free books for her school in exchange for his six weeks of research.
She plans to keep things professional, maintain a friendly distance, but he’s always there. And he’s cute. And maybe a little wounded, like Mac.
A tentative friendship is trying desperately to bloom into something romantic but both are so timid and unwilling to take the risk initially.
They are super cute together. It takes a long time for them to give into their desires, but in the meantime we’re treated to cute banter, dinner dates and pumpkin patches.
More so, as a teacher, I was completely enamored by the hyper realistic portrayal of a teacher, her students, her classroom. What it’s like to try to be a person in the town where you teach, with all the current and former students wandering around. I connected to this part and found it compelling. It’s clear this was written by a teacher.
There’s a third act break up, but there is also support and patience, two adult characters fumbling around as they learn to trust themselves and one another. Daniel wasn’t a caricature of a spoiled, wealthy best selling author; instead he was vulnerable and insecure despite his fame. Mac was grieving the recent loss of her sister, who had also been a teacher, but she while she struggled in her personal life, she remained confident and passionate about her students.
Plus Jenny was a dream best friend.
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
He ends up at a desk in the back of Mackenzie Milcrest’s classroom in a suburb of Chicago, watching her teach English, scribbling in his notebook, trying to figure it all out.
Miss Mac, as she’s lovingly called by her students, isn’t thrilled by this interruption to her classroom, her routine, her grief, but she wants the trade off - free books for her school in exchange for his six weeks of research.
She plans to keep things professional, maintain a friendly distance, but he’s always there. And he’s cute. And maybe a little wounded, like Mac.
A tentative friendship is trying desperately to bloom into something romantic but both are so timid and unwilling to take the risk initially.
They are super cute together. It takes a long time for them to give into their desires, but in the meantime we’re treated to cute banter, dinner dates and pumpkin patches.
More so, as a teacher, I was completely enamored by the hyper realistic portrayal of a teacher, her students, her classroom. What it’s like to try to be a person in the town where you teach, with all the current and former students wandering around. I connected to this part and found it compelling. It’s clear this was written by a teacher.
There’s a third act break up, but there is also support and patience, two adult characters fumbling around as they learn to trust themselves and one another. Daniel wasn’t a caricature of a spoiled, wealthy best selling author; instead he was vulnerable and insecure despite his fame. Mac was grieving the recent loss of her sister, who had also been a teacher, but she while she struggled in her personal life, she remained confident and passionate about her students.
Plus Jenny was a dream best friend.
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
August 30, 2023
perfect back to school vibes
This read made my English/Lit major heart so happy! This is the perfect read if you are a teacher or are wanting something with back to school vibes.
Daniel is a author struggling with impostor syndrome. His new book is due soon, and it is on teachers, and he is struggling. His publishing house sets him up to observe a high school English teacher so he can hopefully find the inspiration he needs to finish his book. What he doesn’t anticipate is Mac becoming so much more than his book inspiration, she becomes everything to him. Can he convince her to give him a chance?
Daniel had me SWOONING multiple times, and I loved the banter between Mac and Daniel. I loved how strong and confident Mac was. As a teacher, this was such a good read.
Tropes:
🏫 Forced Proximity
📖 Workplace Romance
🏫 Hidden Identity
📖 Only One Bed
🏫 He Falls First
📖 Solo POV
This read made my English/Lit major heart so happy! This is the perfect read if you are a teacher or are wanting something with back to school vibes.
Daniel is a author struggling with impostor syndrome. His new book is due soon, and it is on teachers, and he is struggling. His publishing house sets him up to observe a high school English teacher so he can hopefully find the inspiration he needs to finish his book. What he doesn’t anticipate is Mac becoming so much more than his book inspiration, she becomes everything to him. Can he convince her to give him a chance?
Daniel had me SWOONING multiple times, and I loved the banter between Mac and Daniel. I loved how strong and confident Mac was. As a teacher, this was such a good read.
Tropes:
🏫 Forced Proximity
📖 Workplace Romance
🏫 Hidden Identity
📖 Only One Bed
🏫 He Falls First
📖 Solo POV
September 5, 2023
I received an e-book for an honest review and I can truly say this was the light, sweet romance book I was needing. I’m not sure I’d say it was a comedy, at times it felt very tender and almost sad but the build up of the romance was pitched perfectly. Mac is a high school English teacher in a Chicago suburb and one Friday night she meets Evan at the local dive bar. They go outside to escape the terrible music and end up talking books. This was possibly the best meet-cute for a teacher book worm ever! The way Mac described not having one favourite book really resounded with me. After a swoon worth kiss they go their separate ways, only to find that he will be shadowing her at work for the next six weeks to help him write his next novel… The pace wasn’t high and I’d spotted the break up point early on but this didn’t stop me enjoying the story and rooting for Mac and Daniel (he’d used a fake name) all the way through. While I’m not a secondary/high school teacher, Allie Samberts has captured something about the teaching profession that was just lovely. A great book to read before I head back to school next week.
October 3, 2023
An author and a high school English teacher??? Yes, please! This was such a fun and well written story. The start of the book got my attention and I literally couldn’t put it down. Both of the characters were so endearing and I loved how the story unfolded. Plus the classroom setting was a fun element.
May 2, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I liked it more than I expected. There is a little bit of language (a few f-words, from what I can remember.) There is also an open-door love scene in chapter 21. It’s easy to skip without missing any story details.
December 16, 2023
3.5 ⭐️s very cute!!
April 14, 2025
Omg my gosh! I loved this book!!!!!
First of all, I love Daniel. That is all you need to know.
But if you want to know more. Mac is so dang relatable (I formerly taught) and it was so fun to read about a teacher! She also used to run cross country (hi twin)! Her relationship was Jenni was so precious too! Teacher besties have to stick together!!!
I cannot wait to see their relationship as the series continues!!!
Nods to the Midwest? Yes please! Love those as well!
Highly recommend!!!
First of all, I love Daniel. That is all you need to know.
But if you want to know more. Mac is so dang relatable (I formerly taught) and it was so fun to read about a teacher! She also used to run cross country (hi twin)! Her relationship was Jenni was so precious too! Teacher besties have to stick together!!!
I cannot wait to see their relationship as the series continues!!!
Nods to the Midwest? Yes please! Love those as well!
Highly recommend!!!
April 15, 2023
I recieved this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Write Place is such a lovely, slow burn romance. There is so much to love about this novel, with characters that felt realistic, intelligent and witty banter, and a build up that is so worth the wait to get there. A few of the things I loved the most:
- Mac and her best friend Jenny talk like I talk with my girlfriends. The friendship is just as central to the story as the romance, and felt familiar in the best ways.
- The scene in the coffeeshop... This is one of many moments like this, but I loved how this scene demonstrates the growing depth of relationship between the characters. Also who doesn't love coffee and books and snuggling up in a bookstore to read quietly with someone you love?! It was just a quiet, beautiful scene.
- Mac EATS. Like a real person. It's amazing how often food is left out of romance novels when so much of courtship and life in general revolves around shared meals. I love that she has an appetite.
- Daniel, of course. He is handsome, vulnerable, and definitely sexy.
- The environment.. I don't believe I've ever read a romance that takes place inside of a school/from a teacher's POV, which makes The Write Place stand out on it's own aside from all the fantasy jobs many romance MCs have.
- Consent is sexy! That's all I'm going to say on that.
I could go on and on. If you are into romance novels, this is a definite yes for you. If romance isn't usually your genre, The Write Place would be a great introduction. Highly recommended!
The Write Place is such a lovely, slow burn romance. There is so much to love about this novel, with characters that felt realistic, intelligent and witty banter, and a build up that is so worth the wait to get there. A few of the things I loved the most:
- Mac and her best friend Jenny talk like I talk with my girlfriends. The friendship is just as central to the story as the romance, and felt familiar in the best ways.
- The scene in the coffeeshop... This is one of many moments like this, but I loved how this scene demonstrates the growing depth of relationship between the characters. Also who doesn't love coffee and books and snuggling up in a bookstore to read quietly with someone you love?! It was just a quiet, beautiful scene.
- Mac EATS. Like a real person. It's amazing how often food is left out of romance novels when so much of courtship and life in general revolves around shared meals. I love that she has an appetite.
- Daniel, of course. He is handsome, vulnerable, and definitely sexy.
- The environment.. I don't believe I've ever read a romance that takes place inside of a school/from a teacher's POV, which makes The Write Place stand out on it's own aside from all the fantasy jobs many romance MCs have.
- Consent is sexy! That's all I'm going to say on that.
I could go on and on. If you are into romance novels, this is a definite yes for you. If romance isn't usually your genre, The Write Place would be a great introduction. Highly recommended!
September 29, 2025
✨𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰✨
“𝙃𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙨—𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩.”
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🌶️🌶️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫: 21
𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧: 51%
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: Workplace romance, strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, he falls first, forced proximity
𝐏𝐎𝐕: 1st person, Single POV
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Single
𝐊𝐔: Yes
This was such a good debut novel! This book is so unique in that it feels more like a love letter to teacher rather than a romance novel. And I mean that in the best way possible. Mac’s (FMC) classroom was such an integral part of the story.
I love how authentic all the characters feel. The way Samberts describes the body language of the FMC, you could feel her insecurities coming through the pages. A great way of showing the reader how the MCs are feeling instead of telling them. I look forward to reading more books from this author!
⚠️𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⚠️
One open door scene with explicit descriptions
Moderate language
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
“𝙃𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙨—𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩.”
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🌶️🌶️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫: 21
𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧: 51%
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: Workplace romance, strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, he falls first, forced proximity
𝐏𝐎𝐕: 1st person, Single POV
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Single
𝐊𝐔: Yes
This was such a good debut novel! This book is so unique in that it feels more like a love letter to teacher rather than a romance novel. And I mean that in the best way possible. Mac’s (FMC) classroom was such an integral part of the story.
I love how authentic all the characters feel. The way Samberts describes the body language of the FMC, you could feel her insecurities coming through the pages. A great way of showing the reader how the MCs are feeling instead of telling them. I look forward to reading more books from this author!
⚠️𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⚠️
One open door scene with explicit descriptions
Moderate language
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
April 23, 2023
Very cute story! 4 ⭐️’s for this adorable romcom. A little too slow of a burn, but once it picks up it’s worth it! Loved the story between Mac & Evans. This book was so relatable being a teacher. I enjoyed watching the relationship between Mac and Evans grow throughout the book. Jenny is the true MVP when it comes to being a best friend. Small suburban town vibes, banter, and learning to love yourself, while allowing your walls to come down.
October 22, 2023
How are you going to have a slow burn AND a third act break up???????
October 9, 2023
A true 4.5 book to me. It’s been better than many I have read, but there are some smaller things I struggle to look past.
As an English teacher, it felt necessary to read a book about my calling. I identify very much with Mac as a book lover and teacher. Her passion for her job and the way she sees teaching as opportunity, not punishment, is 100% how I feel about my job. I LOVE what I do, and being able to see the accurate representations of overworked, under appreciated teacher WITHOUT disparaging the profession was fabulous. Like Abbot Elementary, this book captured the strife, triumph, and truth of teaching in a humorous, loving way. The romance storyline was great. I honestly loved that it didn’t switch perspectives like many do, and maybe it’s just me, but honest to goodness the lack of spice in the book is GREAT. The book has tension and pivots, but not in a way that would make me feel uncomfortable recommending this book to my students (and like Mac, I also teach juniors and seniors.)
The only gripe I have with the storyline is how quickly it all ended. The storyline had meta-discussion on endings and the finality of things, and while I don’t like all things answered in the end (the more open the better), it just felt like the last 10% flew through time and glossed over too much to wrap up. Also, if the author truly only has 25 students a class, I’m jealous!! Haha.
As an English teacher, it felt necessary to read a book about my calling. I identify very much with Mac as a book lover and teacher. Her passion for her job and the way she sees teaching as opportunity, not punishment, is 100% how I feel about my job. I LOVE what I do, and being able to see the accurate representations of overworked, under appreciated teacher WITHOUT disparaging the profession was fabulous. Like Abbot Elementary, this book captured the strife, triumph, and truth of teaching in a humorous, loving way. The romance storyline was great. I honestly loved that it didn’t switch perspectives like many do, and maybe it’s just me, but honest to goodness the lack of spice in the book is GREAT. The book has tension and pivots, but not in a way that would make me feel uncomfortable recommending this book to my students (and like Mac, I also teach juniors and seniors.)
The only gripe I have with the storyline is how quickly it all ended. The storyline had meta-discussion on endings and the finality of things, and while I don’t like all things answered in the end (the more open the better), it just felt like the last 10% flew through time and glossed over too much to wrap up. Also, if the author truly only has 25 students a class, I’m jealous!! Haha.
August 31, 2024
4.5 stars. I’ve had this book in my Kindle library and a physical copy from my local indie on my shelf for a while now, and in this current season of “back to school” I decided it was finally time to read it. Not that I have kids or work in a school, but I have teacher friends and the timing felt right. I’m so glad I did. I loved it.
Mac is the best kind of teacher. She’s the kind of teacher whose students will always remember her and will leave her class better than they came in. It’s obvious that she truly cares about everyone who walks through her door and takes a lot of pride in her work as an educator. There is a particular scene where her care extends to Daniel when there is a need to uplift him and remind him of his worth and talent. She works this into a lesson with her students while he is observing. It was one of my favorite moments in the book.
Daniel is charming and endearing from the time he arrives, though he certainly has his stumbles in some of the choices he makes. However, he’s so earnest in his admiration and affection for Mac both on a professional and personal level that it’s hard not to give him the benefit of the doubt that he really does have honest, good intentions and/or reasoning. It’s so heartwarming to see him recognize how special Mac is and see the respect he has for her.
I also absolutely adore Jenny and the friendship she and Mac share. I’m really excited to read her book next.
Mac is the best kind of teacher. She’s the kind of teacher whose students will always remember her and will leave her class better than they came in. It’s obvious that she truly cares about everyone who walks through her door and takes a lot of pride in her work as an educator. There is a particular scene where her care extends to Daniel when there is a need to uplift him and remind him of his worth and talent. She works this into a lesson with her students while he is observing. It was one of my favorite moments in the book.
Daniel is charming and endearing from the time he arrives, though he certainly has his stumbles in some of the choices he makes. However, he’s so earnest in his admiration and affection for Mac both on a professional and personal level that it’s hard not to give him the benefit of the doubt that he really does have honest, good intentions and/or reasoning. It’s so heartwarming to see him recognize how special Mac is and see the respect he has for her.
I also absolutely adore Jenny and the friendship she and Mac share. I’m really excited to read her book next.
July 8, 2023
“One thing I know clearly is that I want to be here with you, Mac. With all of you. Even the messy parts.”
I will be honest with you, I picked up this book because I got the ARC of the next book in the series and even though these books can be read on their own, I wanted to read this one to get a complete picture of the story.
It has been so long since I have picked up a simple romance instead of the intense and dark ones I have been going for lately that this book felt like such a comfort read. Mac and Daniel were so different from each other and yet their relationship blossomed so well throughout the book. The characters were relatable, with their perks and shortcomings, and I loved Mac and Jenny’s friendship.
There was a laid-back and mundane vibe to the story with not many things happening all the time and I feel like that added to the appeal of the story. Another thing that made me invested in this story is the professions of the main characters – Mac being a school teacher and Daniel being a romance author).
The story is written in an easy, flowy style with good narration. Also, the fact that the steamy scenes are minimal and not so over-descriptive makes it a good choice for those who are not a fan of smut.
All in all, a good sweet, and light romance to curl up with during these rainy days.
I will be honest with you, I picked up this book because I got the ARC of the next book in the series and even though these books can be read on their own, I wanted to read this one to get a complete picture of the story.
It has been so long since I have picked up a simple romance instead of the intense and dark ones I have been going for lately that this book felt like such a comfort read. Mac and Daniel were so different from each other and yet their relationship blossomed so well throughout the book. The characters were relatable, with their perks and shortcomings, and I loved Mac and Jenny’s friendship.
There was a laid-back and mundane vibe to the story with not many things happening all the time and I feel like that added to the appeal of the story. Another thing that made me invested in this story is the professions of the main characters – Mac being a school teacher and Daniel being a romance author).
The story is written in an easy, flowy style with good narration. Also, the fact that the steamy scenes are minimal and not so over-descriptive makes it a good choice for those who are not a fan of smut.
All in all, a good sweet, and light romance to curl up with during these rainy days.
September 17, 2023
3
“𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝒶𝓊𝓉𝓎 𝑜𝒻 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝑒𝓇𝒶𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒. 𝐼𝓉 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓈 𝓊𝓈 𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁. 𝒪𝓇 𝓂𝒶𝓎𝒷𝑒 𝒶 𝒷𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝒹𝑒𝓈𝒸𝓇𝒾𝓅𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝒾𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝒶𝓁𝓁𝑜𝓌𝓈 𝓊𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁 𝒾𝓃 𝒶 𝓈𝒶𝒻𝑒 𝓈𝓅𝒶𝒸𝑒."
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 - 𝑨𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒆 𝑺𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒔
This was so cute and heart-warming! I had zero expectations and it surprised me in a perfect way. It’s a great romance with incredible characters that make you fall in love with the story and very addictive writing.
The thing I liked the most in the book was definitely the characters. I loved how Mac had a powerful personality but at the same time had a soft side to some things. Daniel is so funny and I quickly fell in love with him. The way he treated Mac and the way their relationship evolved was so cute. I liked that it was not rushed.
There was a kind of third-act breakup, which you all know I’m not a fan of, but this one didn’t really annoy me. I would’ve preferred if they had talked about everything instead of just leaving, but the book had so little drama that this one in the end was okay.
For all the romance lovers out there, this is a great book that makes our hearts feel warm and makes us want to fall in love even more. This was the perfect read to have in between all the fantasy books I’ve been reading.
“𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝒶𝓊𝓉𝓎 𝑜𝒻 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝑒𝓇𝒶𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒. 𝐼𝓉 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓈 𝓊𝓈 𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁. 𝒪𝓇 𝓂𝒶𝓎𝒷𝑒 𝒶 𝒷𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝒹𝑒𝓈𝒸𝓇𝒾𝓅𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝒾𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝒶𝓁𝓁𝑜𝓌𝓈 𝓊𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁 𝒾𝓃 𝒶 𝓈𝒶𝒻𝑒 𝓈𝓅𝒶𝒸𝑒."
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 - 𝑨𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒆 𝑺𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒔
This was so cute and heart-warming! I had zero expectations and it surprised me in a perfect way. It’s a great romance with incredible characters that make you fall in love with the story and very addictive writing.
The thing I liked the most in the book was definitely the characters. I loved how Mac had a powerful personality but at the same time had a soft side to some things. Daniel is so funny and I quickly fell in love with him. The way he treated Mac and the way their relationship evolved was so cute. I liked that it was not rushed.
There was a kind of third-act breakup, which you all know I’m not a fan of, but this one didn’t really annoy me. I would’ve preferred if they had talked about everything instead of just leaving, but the book had so little drama that this one in the end was okay.
For all the romance lovers out there, this is a great book that makes our hearts feel warm and makes us want to fall in love even more. This was the perfect read to have in between all the fantasy books I’ve been reading.
March 10, 2024
This one had me blushing with all their cuteness and teasing. A cozy romcom I soaked up like a sponge last Saturday ☺️
Mackenzie, a dedicated high school English teacher, finds comfort in her job and reading books. Renowned writer Daniel Evans, seeking inspiration, shadows her classroom for research. Despite her initial resistance, Mac can't ignore the growing connection between them. As their stories intertwine, she struggles with unexpected feelings for Daniel, questioning whether love can fit into her carefully planned life.
Daniel, a New Yorker, was out of his element in the Midwest for this project. I loved despite their different backgrounds and past traumas, Mac and Daniel help each other grow through their challenges. I felt like I got behind the scenes insight into the highs and lows of teacher life, with Mac being so inspiring through her tough love and encouragement for her students. I adored the friendship between Mac and Jenny which was so sweet and supportive, with Jenny always having Mac's back. I’m left eager to dive into Jenny's story next!
5★ | Romance | Indie Author @alliesambertswrites
Mackenzie, a dedicated high school English teacher, finds comfort in her job and reading books. Renowned writer Daniel Evans, seeking inspiration, shadows her classroom for research. Despite her initial resistance, Mac can't ignore the growing connection between them. As their stories intertwine, she struggles with unexpected feelings for Daniel, questioning whether love can fit into her carefully planned life.
Daniel, a New Yorker, was out of his element in the Midwest for this project. I loved despite their different backgrounds and past traumas, Mac and Daniel help each other grow through their challenges. I felt like I got behind the scenes insight into the highs and lows of teacher life, with Mac being so inspiring through her tough love and encouragement for her students. I adored the friendship between Mac and Jenny which was so sweet and supportive, with Jenny always having Mac's back. I’m left eager to dive into Jenny's story next!
5★ | Romance | Indie Author @alliesambertswrites
April 12, 2023
In business, you want to find your ideal client. In the writing world, there's much talk about finding your "ideal" reader.
Y'all, I almost feel spoiled to have read this book because it's so ideal to me: high school English teacher - check. Grew up in Midwest - check. Life outside of teaching, including the hard stuff - check.
Everything about The Write Place felt like coming home.
The way the story opens with Miss Mac leading a discussion with her senior class during the last period of the day had me sucked in already, but then let's see Mac and her best friend Jenny in a dive bar after school on Friday and suddenly we have "real people" who are not just teachers. Have that teacher making out with this guy who's talking about books and we're definitely in! :D
Though you'll be satisfied with the romance, it's the topics of grief, standing up for one self, and friendship that changed this book from "nice story" to "rich novel." I truly appreciate the way Samberts' writing delivered a story that sucked me in -- it's been so long since a story has done that!
At this point, put me down for anything Samberts writes!
Y'all, I almost feel spoiled to have read this book because it's so ideal to me: high school English teacher - check. Grew up in Midwest - check. Life outside of teaching, including the hard stuff - check.
Everything about The Write Place felt like coming home.
The way the story opens with Miss Mac leading a discussion with her senior class during the last period of the day had me sucked in already, but then let's see Mac and her best friend Jenny in a dive bar after school on Friday and suddenly we have "real people" who are not just teachers. Have that teacher making out with this guy who's talking about books and we're definitely in! :D
Though you'll be satisfied with the romance, it's the topics of grief, standing up for one self, and friendship that changed this book from "nice story" to "rich novel." I truly appreciate the way Samberts' writing delivered a story that sucked me in -- it's been so long since a story has done that!
At this point, put me down for anything Samberts writes!
June 15, 2023
Let me just say I devoured this in 24hrs. The magnetic energy from the first to the very last page was so enticing. Before I get into the love story can I just say how incredibly written Mac & Jenny are! Their friendship and the love and care they have for each other pulled at my heart strings. They way they have each other backs and are there emotionally for each other was so heartwarming.
Now to Mac our shining star who is all parts wholesome but all parts the one you can’t get enough of. She meets Daniel under false pretenses the night before and ends up stuck with him for six weeks, this forced proximity is everything you hope it would be and more. Daniel is the ever so loving and charming world renowned author who currently has writers block. The story flows from here and makes you feel so hopeful for these two. You fall in love with their love and their story. I loved everything about this book 🥰
Now to Mac our shining star who is all parts wholesome but all parts the one you can’t get enough of. She meets Daniel under false pretenses the night before and ends up stuck with him for six weeks, this forced proximity is everything you hope it would be and more. Daniel is the ever so loving and charming world renowned author who currently has writers block. The story flows from here and makes you feel so hopeful for these two. You fall in love with their love and their story. I loved everything about this book 🥰
November 19, 2023
After a long week of teaching high school English, Mackenzie encounters a handsome stranger at the bar. They instantly connect, but she declines to go out with him since he is only in town for a few weeks. The next day, she learns that Daniel Evans, a bestselling author whose works have significantly impacted her life, will shadow her for six weeks in preparation for his next novel. Oh, and he is the guy she kissed at the bar last night. Over the next few weeks, the magnetic pull between the two becomes undeniable and undeniably complicated.
This book is just so charming. You can tell how much Samberts cares about these characters. So much of this love story plays out in the classroom as they begin to share pieces of themselves, and the students are more than just background, making you feel how good of a teacher Mac is and what an influence she has on her students' lives. Daniel could easily have been the stereotypical wealthy best-selling author, but he is written with such care and shaped with fears and insecurities that make him vulnerable despite his literary fame. Even during the inevitable third-act conflict, you cannot help but root for these two, the school, the students, and the found families that surround them. If you love a sweet, steamy, slow-burn romance that is also an homage to teaching, books, and writing, this is a great one.
This book is just so charming. You can tell how much Samberts cares about these characters. So much of this love story plays out in the classroom as they begin to share pieces of themselves, and the students are more than just background, making you feel how good of a teacher Mac is and what an influence she has on her students' lives. Daniel could easily have been the stereotypical wealthy best-selling author, but he is written with such care and shaped with fears and insecurities that make him vulnerable despite his literary fame. Even during the inevitable third-act conflict, you cannot help but root for these two, the school, the students, and the found families that surround them. If you love a sweet, steamy, slow-burn romance that is also an homage to teaching, books, and writing, this is a great one.
January 19, 2025
I’ve been wanting to read Allie Samberts’s backlist forever and this wasn’t on the plan for the week but it was the right choice!! It is such a good book!! The romance was beautiful! Watching Daniel and Mac slowly but surely and so deliciously fall in love!! It was so worth the wait!! And they were so different but they also complimented each other SO well. Mac and Jenny’s friendship makes my heart so incredibly happy. I love them so much. I can’t wait to read Jenny’s book not only for her story but also for more of her and Mac!!
Between all the sweet and tender moments there is so much real and raw emotions throughout the story. Watching Mac still grieving her sister. How much Daniel was struggling with impostor syndrome. How important GOOD teachers are. I thought it was all so well balanced and written with so much care.
Between all the sweet and tender moments there is so much real and raw emotions throughout the story. Watching Mac still grieving her sister. How much Daniel was struggling with impostor syndrome. How important GOOD teachers are. I thought it was all so well balanced and written with so much care.
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