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That Wasn't in the Script
Josie Bradford feels stuck. After being moved against her will to New York City and losing her father in the span of a year, the aspiring screenwriter dreams of escaping back to small-town Ohio where she can attend college and go back to some version of normal-if only she could afford it. Enter Hollywood teen heartthrob Rowan Adler, an overnight celebrity thanks to the viral streaming sensation in which he stars. Ever-reckless Rowan is bored, sheltered, and desperate to escape the limelight. The lives of the two teenagers collide one fateful autumn night when Josie finds an escaped Rowan asleep in the middle of the greasy burger shack where she works, leading her to How much would this exclusive sell for? What follows is an absurd, heartfelt, romantic twenty-four-hour descent into chaos. The unlikely pair slowly learn what it means to embrace the plot twists life throws their way and how sometimes, getting lost is the only way to find out what you really want.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2023
9 people are currently reading
4165 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Ainslee
3 books87 followersSarah Ainslee has worn several hats. Nanny, barista, social media manager, and occasional band wrangler (don’t ask.) Through it all, ‘writer’ is the only title that has ever stuck. Telling stories is what she always comes back to.
She’s a YA contemporary author with a penchant for awkward encounters and whimsical adventures—a dash of romance never hurts either. She writes stories for the teenager inside all of us who still doesn’t know what they want to be when they grow up.
Sarah currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
She’s a YA contemporary author with a penchant for awkward encounters and whimsical adventures—a dash of romance never hurts either. She writes stories for the teenager inside all of us who still doesn’t know what they want to be when they grow up.
Sarah currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
April 28, 2023
Is it cringe to leave five stars if you wrote the book? (Too late.)
What started as a chaotic and whimsical Roman Holiday retelling became an unconventional form of therapy for me. Josie and Rowan are extensions of myself in ways I didn’t fully recognize till all was said and done. I hope their whirlwind romance reminds you that happily ever afters (and your dreams) are worth believing in. Even if they don’t go according to the script.
What started as a chaotic and whimsical Roman Holiday retelling became an unconventional form of therapy for me. Josie and Rowan are extensions of myself in ways I didn’t fully recognize till all was said and done. I hope their whirlwind romance reminds you that happily ever afters (and your dreams) are worth believing in. Even if they don’t go according to the script.
April 3, 2023
firstly thank you so much to the author and bows bookshelf for sending me a physical arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
this book was so fun. I absolutely loved the characters, it took me a little to get into the story but once I was hooked I was HOOKED I TELL YOU. I loved reading about josie and rowans adventure, it was so fun and made me realize how boring my life it (😭). once you read the book you’ll understand the cover and let me tell you after reading all the little details in the cover are amazing like I’m so obsessed. Pru was probably my favorite character (give me a spin off book of her a few year’s later I beg) and indio was amazing. I loved how supportive he was, I wish I had him as a best friend. The only thing I didn’t really love was the ending, I wish there could have been a more defined ending instead of a kind of opened ending one, I’m so manifesting there’s another book because I NEED to know what will happen next for josie and rowan. overall I really liked this book and I definitely recommend it. from the cover to the adventure of this book, I’m obsessed. now I want to go plan a trip to nyc (I’ve never been before but this book made me want to go even more)
again thank you to the author and publisher for sending me an early copy 🫶💗
this book was so fun. I absolutely loved the characters, it took me a little to get into the story but once I was hooked I was HOOKED I TELL YOU. I loved reading about josie and rowans adventure, it was so fun and made me realize how boring my life it (😭). once you read the book you’ll understand the cover and let me tell you after reading all the little details in the cover are amazing like I’m so obsessed. Pru was probably my favorite character (give me a spin off book of her a few year’s later I beg) and indio was amazing. I loved how supportive he was, I wish I had him as a best friend. The only thing I didn’t really love was the ending, I wish there could have been a more defined ending instead of a kind of opened ending one, I’m so manifesting there’s another book because I NEED to know what will happen next for josie and rowan. overall I really liked this book and I definitely recommend it. from the cover to the adventure of this book, I’m obsessed. now I want to go plan a trip to nyc (I’ve never been before but this book made me want to go even more)
again thank you to the author and publisher for sending me an early copy 🫶💗
January 3, 2023
Rowan Adler is a popular teen actor, he sneaks out of his hotel room one night and ends up in Josie Bradford's room the next day, leading to their adventure in the big apple.
I started off the year with this cute book and I'm glad I did. It was a quick and easy read, perfect book to start a new year with. I really enjoyed the characters and storyline. Sarah did amazing with the writing and I can't wait to read more from her!
(thank you for providing me with an arc of this book)
I started off the year with this cute book and I'm glad I did. It was a quick and easy read, perfect book to start a new year with. I really enjoyed the characters and storyline. Sarah did amazing with the writing and I can't wait to read more from her!
(thank you for providing me with an arc of this book)
June 25, 2023
Disclaimer: I know Sarah personally, and have been her friend for years so I might be slightly biased. But honestly, one of the things I have loved about her from day one is her way with words.
This was such a fun, cute read. I love Reckless Rowan and undefinably real his character is. The fact that I also finally saw Roman Holiday for the first time this year (Sarah don’t hate me for that) made me smile each time I noted a reference in this retelling.
I got to read a beta version of this back in 2020 (also feeling a little famed by the author mentioning this in the acknowledgements on page 273 and trying not to get a big head about it) and while it was a totally different story then, it has matured and evolved into something so brilliant that I’m so proud to say that I have been a champion of this story since one of its earliest forms.
You want to read this book. Move it to the top of your TBR list, because these characters feel more alive than anything I’ve read in a long time.
This was such a fun, cute read. I love Reckless Rowan and undefinably real his character is. The fact that I also finally saw Roman Holiday for the first time this year (Sarah don’t hate me for that) made me smile each time I noted a reference in this retelling.
I got to read a beta version of this back in 2020 (also feeling a little famed by the author mentioning this in the acknowledgements on page 273 and trying not to get a big head about it) and while it was a totally different story then, it has matured and evolved into something so brilliant that I’m so proud to say that I have been a champion of this story since one of its earliest forms.
You want to read this book. Move it to the top of your TBR list, because these characters feel more alive than anything I’ve read in a long time.
April 3, 2023
Thank you to the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
That Wasn't in the Script is marketed as a Roman Holiday inspired story, and that is a very tall order (not only because Roman Holiday is one of my favorite films). The Roman Holiday comparison was what drew me to the story initially, and while I definitely see the inspiration, I feel that That Wasn't in the Script lacked any of the charm and likability that the original Audrey Hepburn film has.
Neither Josie nor Rowan were totally unlikable, but I found them to be very stereotypical characters. I didn't feel like either had much depth or nuance to them. I felt like I'd read about their characters a million times before --- probably because I have. I was just kind of...bored. I didn't feel any sort of high stakes throughout the story, and especially felt non towards the end. Truthfully, I kind of just couldn't wait for this to be over.
That Wasn't in the Script is marketed as a Roman Holiday inspired story, and that is a very tall order (not only because Roman Holiday is one of my favorite films). The Roman Holiday comparison was what drew me to the story initially, and while I definitely see the inspiration, I feel that That Wasn't in the Script lacked any of the charm and likability that the original Audrey Hepburn film has.
Neither Josie nor Rowan were totally unlikable, but I found them to be very stereotypical characters. I didn't feel like either had much depth or nuance to them. I felt like I'd read about their characters a million times before --- probably because I have. I was just kind of...bored. I didn't feel any sort of high stakes throughout the story, and especially felt non towards the end. Truthfully, I kind of just couldn't wait for this to be over.
April 6, 2023
ARC read. Wow! I really enjoyed this one. I fell in love with Josie and Rowan’s stories and love this authors writing style. A cute but not predictable young adult romance between a regular old high school senior and a popular actor. Their adventures were spectacular and I loved the ending. I felt like it was the perfect ending without being corny or predictable. Would love to read more about Rowan and Josie. Also, Dawn Heights being set in Connecticut is fabulous (possible Gilmore Girls reference??)
March 31, 2023
3.5 stars
Over the course of 24 hours, Josie Bradford, aspiring screenwriter, finds herself on an adventure in New York City with teen heartthrob Rowan Adler. Books like these are always so fascinating to me because, when done well, they showcase how much meeting one person on what appears to be a random day can just change on your entire life.
This Wasn't in the Script does that pretty well, showcasing both Josie and Rowan's growth over the course of these 24 hours. There were some things in the book that I wasn't a fan of, especially how at the start, the same scene was shown through two different perspectives. I felt it made reading it kind of tedious. But overall, this was a really fun read and I thoroughly enjoyed every part of it!
Thank you to Bow's Bookshelf for my e-ARC through Netgalley!
Over the course of 24 hours, Josie Bradford, aspiring screenwriter, finds herself on an adventure in New York City with teen heartthrob Rowan Adler. Books like these are always so fascinating to me because, when done well, they showcase how much meeting one person on what appears to be a random day can just change on your entire life.
This Wasn't in the Script does that pretty well, showcasing both Josie and Rowan's growth over the course of these 24 hours. There were some things in the book that I wasn't a fan of, especially how at the start, the same scene was shown through two different perspectives. I felt it made reading it kind of tedious. But overall, this was a really fun read and I thoroughly enjoyed every part of it!
Thank you to Bow's Bookshelf for my e-ARC through Netgalley!
January 2, 2023
So! I was lucky enough to be emailed a copy of this book that releases, April 4, 2023! (Thank you Bookfunnel) And I loved it! The story follows a insanely popular actor from the biggest teen drama and a teen girl aspiring to be a screenwriter having an insane adventure in New York. I thought the story was addicting and I’m not gonna lie I kinda want more after finishing! The young romance was cute and angsty (perfect). I also felt a little anxious because of how much happened in such a short time frame during this book, I was also kind of worried about Josie’s little sister during random parts of their escapades! But I really enjoyed this book!
I also wanted to share a quote from the book and that made me really feel all the feelings. This made me want to pack up, move to New York and just be someone!
“I’m surrounded by a sea of thousands of nameless faces who don’t know me, and for the first time since moving here, it doesn’t make me want to run away to where it’s smaller and safe. The world feels vast and limitless and entirely mine for the taking, like all of this exists so I could be here in this moment to experience it. I’m not just another background character in someone else’s story. I’m the leading role.”
I also wanted to share a quote from the book and that made me really feel all the feelings. This made me want to pack up, move to New York and just be someone!
“I’m surrounded by a sea of thousands of nameless faces who don’t know me, and for the first time since moving here, it doesn’t make me want to run away to where it’s smaller and safe. The world feels vast and limitless and entirely mine for the taking, like all of this exists so I could be here in this moment to experience it. I’m not just another background character in someone else’s story. I’m the leading role.”
March 24, 2023
I’ve never seen Roman Holiday (please don’t judge me) of which this book is based off. Regardless, I absolutely loved this story and Josie and Rowan’s whole adventure. Prudence was definitely the highlight of the whole book, even though she only showed up a few times. I loved Indio and his unwavering supportiveness. We could all use a friend like that! While I wish the book had a more definitive ending, I’m glad it ended on a positive note.
Thank you to Sarah and Bow’s Bookshelf for an arc of this book.
Thank you to Sarah and Bow’s Bookshelf for an arc of this book.
January 12, 2023
I had really been looking forward to this book since I first heard about it and was lucky enough to get an ARC which I just finished, and let me tell you it did NOT disappoint! It’s exactly the kind of book I like. It had a ton of dialogue, lots of random references to pop culture things - old movies, U2, Tom Holland, Marvel, Community (the TV show - which I love but I feel like is kind of obscure so I got excited!) - a really cute and original storyline. It was not predictable to me at all which I really appreciated because just when you think you know what might happen, it doesn’t 😂 Thanks so much to the author for the ARC!
June 15, 2023
Great read!!
Super fun romp through NYC and the lives of two delightful, quirky, and relatable characters. It's impossible not to root for these two.
Super fun romp through NYC and the lives of two delightful, quirky, and relatable characters. It's impossible not to root for these two.
March 18, 2023
Josie's family move to New York from Ohio for her father's new job but shortly after the move, he falls ill and dies leaving the family struggling for money in a city that Josie does not consider home. She has a plan: study hard at school and work evenings at King Kong across the road so that she can apply for a screen writing course back home in Ohio.
One evening at the end of a shift, she finds Rowan, a very famous face from a viral streaming sensation, asleep in the corner. Thinking that the reason he looks familiar is because he is from her school, she takes him home to sleep it off. The next 24 hours are a crazy adventure around NY city by two people who have lost their sense of direction in their lives.
I liked the balance between Josie and Rowan's characters; Josie is a school swot and rule follower, Rowan is creative and spontaneous. Can Josie learn to let go a little and embrace all that New York has to offer and can Rowan get back some control over his life? This book is a fun, romantic and life affirming read in which Josie and Rowan come to terms with the past and find a way to go forward. I also loved Pru, Josie's little sister, whose character and story weaves into the plot in a delightfully unexpected way.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
One evening at the end of a shift, she finds Rowan, a very famous face from a viral streaming sensation, asleep in the corner. Thinking that the reason he looks familiar is because he is from her school, she takes him home to sleep it off. The next 24 hours are a crazy adventure around NY city by two people who have lost their sense of direction in their lives.
I liked the balance between Josie and Rowan's characters; Josie is a school swot and rule follower, Rowan is creative and spontaneous. Can Josie learn to let go a little and embrace all that New York has to offer and can Rowan get back some control over his life? This book is a fun, romantic and life affirming read in which Josie and Rowan come to terms with the past and find a way to go forward. I also loved Pru, Josie's little sister, whose character and story weaves into the plot in a delightfully unexpected way.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
March 25, 2023
Josie is just a girl working her way for an admittance to University of Cincinnati and helping her mom pay the bills. Rowan is a teenage heartthrob running away from his TV show and his problems. Them meeting is something that only happens in the movies, but everything that happens afterwards isn't in the script.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I loved this book!!!! I love the teenage angst from the characters. I love their complexity and their depth. Ainslee really captured what is like to be on the edge of 18 and starting to plan to the future. Josie and Rowan's feeling and thought were authentic and relatable. (I remember telling them too.) Their adventures throughout the day keep the plot interesting and moving. This is one of the best YA books I've read this year. Sarah Ainslee is an author to watch for.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I loved this book!!!! I love the teenage angst from the characters. I love their complexity and their depth. Ainslee really captured what is like to be on the edge of 18 and starting to plan to the future. Josie and Rowan's feeling and thought were authentic and relatable. (I remember telling them too.) Their adventures throughout the day keep the plot interesting and moving. This is one of the best YA books I've read this year. Sarah Ainslee is an author to watch for.
March 24, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this book!
I LOVED THIS BOOK! This story was so cute and I wish I could read it again for the first time.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! This story was so cute and I wish I could read it again for the first time.
March 30, 2023
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this debut novel by Sarah Ainslee, so thank you to Bows Bookshelf and Sarah for the opportunity to read this ahead of its release.
"That Wasn't In The Script" is a heartwarming and engaging debut novel that explores themes of grief, friendship, and unexpected connections. The story follows Josie, a teenage girl who is still reeling from the loss of her father, and Rowan, a charming heartthrob from a popular TV show, as they spend a whirlwind 24 hours together in New York City.
One of the strengths of this book is the character development. Josie is a relatable protagonist who struggles with her insecurities, while Rowan is more than just a stereotypical heartthrob; he has his own struggles and secrets that make him a complex and interesting character. The dynamic between the two is both realistic and endearing, and watching their relationship develop over the course of the day is a joy.
The writing style is engaging and immersive, and the author does a fantastic job of capturing the sights and sounds of New York City. The pacing is brisk, and the 24-hour timeframe adds an element of urgency that keeps the reader invested in the story.
While there were some moments where the plot felt a bit contrived, overall "That Wasn't In The Script" is a well-written and enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of young adult fiction. The themes of grief and friendship are handled with sensitivity and depth, and the unexpected connection between Josie and Rowan is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
"That Wasn't In The Script" is a heartwarming and engaging debut novel that explores themes of grief, friendship, and unexpected connections. The story follows Josie, a teenage girl who is still reeling from the loss of her father, and Rowan, a charming heartthrob from a popular TV show, as they spend a whirlwind 24 hours together in New York City.
One of the strengths of this book is the character development. Josie is a relatable protagonist who struggles with her insecurities, while Rowan is more than just a stereotypical heartthrob; he has his own struggles and secrets that make him a complex and interesting character. The dynamic between the two is both realistic and endearing, and watching their relationship develop over the course of the day is a joy.
The writing style is engaging and immersive, and the author does a fantastic job of capturing the sights and sounds of New York City. The pacing is brisk, and the 24-hour timeframe adds an element of urgency that keeps the reader invested in the story.
While there were some moments where the plot felt a bit contrived, overall "That Wasn't In The Script" is a well-written and enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of young adult fiction. The themes of grief and friendship are handled with sensitivity and depth, and the unexpected connection between Josie and Rowan is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
March 15, 2023
This was an absolutely delightful story! Josie is a hard-working teen & Rowan is an actor from a widely acclaimed show, Dawn Heights. When he ends up at King Kong everything that manifests is far from what they expect. Both are running from traumatic pasts & find more in each other than they expected. I only wish it had an epilogue to delve deeper into what comes next!
September 9, 2023
so in love with nyc
(this would honestly make a great movie)
(this would honestly make a great movie)
January 20, 2023
Isn’t it every teen girl’s dream to have a 24-hour, New York City adventure with a superstar heartthrob?
It wasn’t Josie’s. And Rowan Adler? No. Thanks. Too famous, too dramatic, too overrated. But then the craziest thing happens; a strange boy walks into her workplace for a gross burger.
I received That Wasn’t in the Script as an ARC from my old friend, and the gifted writer, Sarah Ainslee. It was going to be an automatic 5- star read for me just because of who she is and the writer that I know in her, but it’s a beautifully unbiased 5-star read.
This book is everything you want in a young, feel-good, love story (including the BEST pop-culture references, which I expected and was not disappointed by), but has a maturity in it that left me floored and highlighting quotes for later reference. I laughed, I cried, I worried, I cheered, I related, and I dreamed. I went exploring in New York City with my new friends Josie and Rowan, and I have stories from it that I will never forget.
Sarah, this is extraordinary. You are extraordinary. I LOVE this work and I can’t wait for the world to love it, too.
"I don't think the notion of happily ever after is ever about everything being perfect after you fall in love with the right person. It's choosing to admit that life can suck, but doing it with someone who is willing to stick by you makes the hard stuff survivable, maybe even good."
It wasn’t Josie’s. And Rowan Adler? No. Thanks. Too famous, too dramatic, too overrated. But then the craziest thing happens; a strange boy walks into her workplace for a gross burger.
I received That Wasn’t in the Script as an ARC from my old friend, and the gifted writer, Sarah Ainslee. It was going to be an automatic 5- star read for me just because of who she is and the writer that I know in her, but it’s a beautifully unbiased 5-star read.
This book is everything you want in a young, feel-good, love story (including the BEST pop-culture references, which I expected and was not disappointed by), but has a maturity in it that left me floored and highlighting quotes for later reference. I laughed, I cried, I worried, I cheered, I related, and I dreamed. I went exploring in New York City with my new friends Josie and Rowan, and I have stories from it that I will never forget.
Sarah, this is extraordinary. You are extraordinary. I LOVE this work and I can’t wait for the world to love it, too.
"I don't think the notion of happily ever after is ever about everything being perfect after you fall in love with the right person. It's choosing to admit that life can suck, but doing it with someone who is willing to stick by you makes the hard stuff survivable, maybe even good."
February 23, 2023
Josie has been dealing with a lot the past year—an unwanted to move NYC, the sudden passing of her father, and trying to help her mom make ends meet. The last thing she expects is for teen heartthrob, Rowan Adler, to fall asleep at a booth during her shift at work—although she doesn’t quite know that’s who he is just yet. Unable to wake him and unsure what to do, she drags him to her apartment across the street. In the morning, Rowan doesn’t seem quite ready to head back to his stifling life so he convinces Josie to spend the day exploring the city with him.
I’m always amazed at books that take place in roughly a 24-hour time frame because that doesn’t really seem like enough time for an entire story to take place, but this one had so much going on that I kept forgetting that it was still the same day. Throughout their time together, Rowan is able to pull Josie out of her shell and show her that she has been hiding and just going through the motions of life. In return, Josie is a much-needed friend to Rowan and gives him the courage to pursue what he really wants out of his career.
This was just a very real story with a lot of really cute moments. Rowan was just the absolute sweetest and I loved getting to explore NYC through Josie’s eyes. I also loved the friendship bracelet scenes with Josie’s litter sister in particular. Overall, this one just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside which is a plus in my book.
Thank you to the author & publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I’m always amazed at books that take place in roughly a 24-hour time frame because that doesn’t really seem like enough time for an entire story to take place, but this one had so much going on that I kept forgetting that it was still the same day. Throughout their time together, Rowan is able to pull Josie out of her shell and show her that she has been hiding and just going through the motions of life. In return, Josie is a much-needed friend to Rowan and gives him the courage to pursue what he really wants out of his career.
This was just a very real story with a lot of really cute moments. Rowan was just the absolute sweetest and I loved getting to explore NYC through Josie’s eyes. I also loved the friendship bracelet scenes with Josie’s litter sister in particular. Overall, this one just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside which is a plus in my book.
Thank you to the author & publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
January 16, 2023
I am truly a sucker for a YA novel that has a famous main character and this one lived up to and far beyond my expectations. This story follows Rowan and Josie over a two day adventure together after just meeting. Rowan is a famous teen actor and Josie is a grieving teenager working to help her mom pay bills after the loss of her father. They adventure around New York together, getting Josie outside of her comfort zone while Rowan avoids going back to his life, and develop such a deep and genuine connection during their time together.
I very much related to Rowan’s impulsive tendencies, and Josie’s need to follow the rules and I loved the way they balanced each other out. I enjoyed every minute reading this one and it felt truly made for people (like me) who love old rom coms and the city of New York.
The moments of raw grief both characters experience and share felt so true and lovely to see in a YA rom com. My absolute favorite scene involves these babes being vulnerable with their grief in a midnight beach moment (read it and you’ll know).
Please please pick this one up and send me all of your thoughts. Thank you to the author for my e-arc and the chance to read and review early.
I very much related to Rowan’s impulsive tendencies, and Josie’s need to follow the rules and I loved the way they balanced each other out. I enjoyed every minute reading this one and it felt truly made for people (like me) who love old rom coms and the city of New York.
The moments of raw grief both characters experience and share felt so true and lovely to see in a YA rom com. My absolute favorite scene involves these babes being vulnerable with their grief in a midnight beach moment (read it and you’ll know).
Please please pick this one up and send me all of your thoughts. Thank you to the author for my e-arc and the chance to read and review early.
March 31, 2023
That Wasn't in the Script by Sarah Ainslee was an adventurous, light-hearted young adult novel. The story follows Josie - the trying to grow up too quick and help her struggling family teen and Rowan - the trying to figure out what he wants from life heartthrob actor. In a chance encounter, the two young characters go on an epic adventure over the course of twenty four hours that quite possibly will alter their entire lives.
This was a very quick and fun read. The author did an amazing job bringing all of the characters to life throughout this story. I especially loved the feature of the non-binary character Izzie. The ending of this story, although leaving a few things unresolved, was absolute perfection. I can't wait to read more from Sarah Ainslee!
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, Bow's Bookshelf in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very quick and fun read. The author did an amazing job bringing all of the characters to life throughout this story. I especially loved the feature of the non-binary character Izzie. The ending of this story, although leaving a few things unresolved, was absolute perfection. I can't wait to read more from Sarah Ainslee!
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, Bow's Bookshelf in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2023
Okay, okay. First book read of 2023. I’m a slow reader, but I finished this much quicker than I do most novels. So, that’s already a good sign. And oh my goodness? One of the most memorable and greatest things I’ve ever read. Thank you for the ebook ARC of this, and I’m so excited to home my personal physical copy of this book on my overflowing bookshelf in April.
I love how relatable and realistic these characters are. It’s really hard to find YA books that *DONT* hammer down text speak from 2015 in books that release in the 2020s. Teens rarely talked like this then, and they definitely don’t now. I applaud Sarah Ainslee’s understanding of how to navigate these characters. Teenagers make mistakes! They’re not perfect!
I was amazed at how fleshed out these characters and their backstories were (And side note: Izzy is non-binary?! I almost cried from happiness when I pieced that together). I saw myself in Josie as a writing major. I saw myself in both Rowan and Josie as someone who just wants to get away. Pru reminded me of myself as a kid.
The hidden theme of grief throughout this novel is something I didn’t expect when jumping in five days ago and honestly? It was a little therapeutic for this half orphaned bookworm typing this review up.
The ending was beautiful. Not what I expected, but in a good way.
There’s so much more I could say, but I don’t want to bore an unknown reader any longer.
If how much I loved this book is any indication for how this year will go, 2023 will be filled with wonderful, exciting, and beautiful but bittersweet opportunities and moments.
I give Sarah Ainslee’s debut novel, “That Wasn’t in the Script”, a 4.75 (rounded up) out of 5. And I cannot wait to see what comes from Ainslee next.
I love how relatable and realistic these characters are. It’s really hard to find YA books that *DONT* hammer down text speak from 2015 in books that release in the 2020s. Teens rarely talked like this then, and they definitely don’t now. I applaud Sarah Ainslee’s understanding of how to navigate these characters. Teenagers make mistakes! They’re not perfect!
I was amazed at how fleshed out these characters and their backstories were (And side note: Izzy is non-binary?! I almost cried from happiness when I pieced that together). I saw myself in Josie as a writing major. I saw myself in both Rowan and Josie as someone who just wants to get away. Pru reminded me of myself as a kid.
The hidden theme of grief throughout this novel is something I didn’t expect when jumping in five days ago and honestly? It was a little therapeutic for this half orphaned bookworm typing this review up.
The ending was beautiful. Not what I expected, but in a good way.
There’s so much more I could say, but I don’t want to bore an unknown reader any longer.
If how much I loved this book is any indication for how this year will go, 2023 will be filled with wonderful, exciting, and beautiful but bittersweet opportunities and moments.
I give Sarah Ainslee’s debut novel, “That Wasn’t in the Script”, a 4.75 (rounded up) out of 5. And I cannot wait to see what comes from Ainslee next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2023
First, I want to say thank you to Sarah and BookFunnel for sending me this adorable ARC. This review took me some time to put together, but it’s because I wanted to do it justice! This book gave me major Starstruck vibes, and if you knew me in middle school, you’d know I watched that movie over and over. So, I was very happy with this read! The book will be released 4/4/2023 so be sure to add it to your TBR!
Synopsis: Rowan Adler, famous actor and teenage heartthrob, sneaks out of his NYC hotel and finds himself waking up in our female lead, Josie Bradford’s, house. The two spend the day adventuring in the Big Apple, but when reality sinks in that Rowan will have to go back, how will their script end?
Thoughts:
• This book was such an easy and adorable read!
• I felt connected to the characters right away.
• There are romcom/chick flick movie references (i.e., Pretty in Pink, Mean Girls) throughout the book and I lived for them! (And I saw you Sarah with the Alanis Morissette reference in the Acknowledgments!)
• *SPOILER AHEAD HERE* I just wish there was more of an ending for our leads! The end left me with SO many unanswered questions that I would love answers to.
• And how amazing is the book cover?! After reading the book, the details won’t stop popping out at me.
Favorite Quote:
“All the big things felt so small compared to the reality of what happened: I met a girl who made my life a little better for a day.” 🥰
Synopsis: Rowan Adler, famous actor and teenage heartthrob, sneaks out of his NYC hotel and finds himself waking up in our female lead, Josie Bradford’s, house. The two spend the day adventuring in the Big Apple, but when reality sinks in that Rowan will have to go back, how will their script end?
Thoughts:
• This book was such an easy and adorable read!
• I felt connected to the characters right away.
• There are romcom/chick flick movie references (i.e., Pretty in Pink, Mean Girls) throughout the book and I lived for them! (And I saw you Sarah with the Alanis Morissette reference in the Acknowledgments!)
• *SPOILER AHEAD HERE* I just wish there was more of an ending for our leads! The end left me with SO many unanswered questions that I would love answers to.
• And how amazing is the book cover?! After reading the book, the details won’t stop popping out at me.
Favorite Quote:
“All the big things felt so small compared to the reality of what happened: I met a girl who made my life a little better for a day.” 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2023
!!!! 1st book of the year !!!
Really enjoyed this one, I read it one day lmao. Slightly angsty, but cute story about a famous teen actor who falls asleep in a restaurant and wakes up at the house of the cute waitress who was serving him the night before. The two bond as they have an adventure around NYC.
Also, absolutely love the cover. It's what caught my attention in the first place. Looking forward to reading more from Sarah Ainslee in the future!
Really enjoyed this one, I read it one day lmao. Slightly angsty, but cute story about a famous teen actor who falls asleep in a restaurant and wakes up at the house of the cute waitress who was serving him the night before. The two bond as they have an adventure around NYC.
Also, absolutely love the cover. It's what caught my attention in the first place. Looking forward to reading more from Sarah Ainslee in the future!
September 19, 2023
Sweet, funny and thoughtful in every single page! A smart and heartwarming retelling.
March 22, 2023
Just to start this off, I received this book as an ARC copy.
This book is about a famous tv star and a girl who works at a diner and how their lives get interwoven due to some accidentally taken sleeping pills. Through spending the day together in New York City, they reveal more about themselves to each other, while also learning more about their own selves. (Of course, all this is happening while also trying to avoid the paparazzi.)
This book lures you in from the first line and makes you laugh and sometimes also makes you want to cry...but in a good way. It is an emotionally up-and-down book, but that just makes it all the more fun. I liked how this book emphasized the idea of opening yourself up to new settings and how that can lead to new opportunities. Even though this book is a romantic comedy, it also seems like a healing story.
This book is set during Halloween activities and through some fights, friendship bracelets, and driving your friend's car three hours in the middle of the night, Josie and Rowan create a bond like no other.
If you are a person who likes the movie, Starstruck, and also enjoys fun rom-coms, I highly recommend reading this book.
This book is about a famous tv star and a girl who works at a diner and how their lives get interwoven due to some accidentally taken sleeping pills. Through spending the day together in New York City, they reveal more about themselves to each other, while also learning more about their own selves. (Of course, all this is happening while also trying to avoid the paparazzi.)
This book lures you in from the first line and makes you laugh and sometimes also makes you want to cry...but in a good way. It is an emotionally up-and-down book, but that just makes it all the more fun. I liked how this book emphasized the idea of opening yourself up to new settings and how that can lead to new opportunities. Even though this book is a romantic comedy, it also seems like a healing story.
This book is set during Halloween activities and through some fights, friendship bracelets, and driving your friend's car three hours in the middle of the night, Josie and Rowan create a bond like no other.
If you are a person who likes the movie, Starstruck, and also enjoys fun rom-coms, I highly recommend reading this book.
March 21, 2023
That Wasn’t In The Script
by Sarah Ainslee
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the storyline and how the events planned out throughout the course of a night. It all came together and was as if I just had a conversation and they told me this story of their adventures from the night. This book works wonders with connections. This is going to get you hooked, it’s a comfort read. The only thing I struggled with was at some points in the story distinguishing who was speaking but I reread parts and was able to figure it out. I am glad I was able to get the opportunity to read this. I would read again and maybe with a physical copy to annotate. Gives me ideas!
by Sarah Ainslee
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the storyline and how the events planned out throughout the course of a night. It all came together and was as if I just had a conversation and they told me this story of their adventures from the night. This book works wonders with connections. This is going to get you hooked, it’s a comfort read. The only thing I struggled with was at some points in the story distinguishing who was speaking but I reread parts and was able to figure it out. I am glad I was able to get the opportunity to read this. I would read again and maybe with a physical copy to annotate. Gives me ideas!
January 11, 2023
I found this book to be really cute. It is definitely a YA book with a fun premise. I only gave it 4 stars because I wanted a little more. Maybe an epilogue that shows how it all worked out. I’m not one who necessarily needs the couple to get together but a little more of what the future held would have perfected it.
January 8, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ from me. I highly recommend this book.
First, I wanna thank the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader for the FIRST TIME EVER!
I really enjoyed this book. It’s very charming, cute, fluffy, soft, everything. As a hopeless romantic who follows rules, I felt both seen and called out by this book, but I’m not even mad about it.
Rowan and Pru, I adore them.
Dual POV is always a plus for me.
AND it takes place on Halloween. I love it.
The topic of grief was so beautifully handled and I loved that about this story.
As for the ending, it left me wanting so much more, but in a good way.
First, I wanna thank the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader for the FIRST TIME EVER!
I really enjoyed this book. It’s very charming, cute, fluffy, soft, everything. As a hopeless romantic who follows rules, I felt both seen and called out by this book, but I’m not even mad about it.
Rowan and Pru, I adore them.
Dual POV is always a plus for me.
AND it takes place on Halloween. I love it.
The topic of grief was so beautifully handled and I loved that about this story.
As for the ending, it left me wanting so much more, but in a good way.
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