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Enemies to Lovers
'A 5 star book! I loved every word of this enemies to lovers slow burn rom com!... It is perfect!!' Reader review 5 stars
It is a truth universally acknowledged that you will go from enemies to lovers...
Meet Elizabeth Bennett. Otherwise known as Eden Blake the understudy in Liz and Darcy, the musical adaptation of Pride and Prejudice . Eden has toiled away for years as a working actress in terrible commercials. While she's not guaranteed a spot on stage, this production is one step on the road to her dreams.
Until Brennon Thorne , their new Mr Darcy, and all-round theatre god joins the next leg of their tour. Brennon can't hide his contempt for Eden and anyone who isn't a classically trained actor. And he doesn't care who knows it.
But at least they don't need to spend that much time together.
Until the actress playing Elizabeth drops out last minute and suddenly the spotlight is on Eden. Opposite Brennon. On stage. Every night. Which always ends with a kiss.
Brennon's arrogance and disdain is almost unbearable. But as one on-stage kiss leads to another, Eden can't help feeling something else...
Could her pretend Mr Darcy actually be one in real life? Or does that only happen in a Jane Austen novel?
A wonderfully witty and spicy retelling of Jane Austen's classic tale of enemies to lovers. Fans of bookish happy ever afters will be hooked by this romantic comedy that is perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Ali Hazelwood.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that you will go from enemies to lovers...
Meet Elizabeth Bennett. Otherwise known as Eden Blake the understudy in Liz and Darcy, the musical adaptation of Pride and Prejudice . Eden has toiled away for years as a working actress in terrible commercials. While she's not guaranteed a spot on stage, this production is one step on the road to her dreams.
Until Brennon Thorne , their new Mr Darcy, and all-round theatre god joins the next leg of their tour. Brennon can't hide his contempt for Eden and anyone who isn't a classically trained actor. And he doesn't care who knows it.
But at least they don't need to spend that much time together.
Until the actress playing Elizabeth drops out last minute and suddenly the spotlight is on Eden. Opposite Brennon. On stage. Every night. Which always ends with a kiss.
Brennon's arrogance and disdain is almost unbearable. But as one on-stage kiss leads to another, Eden can't help feeling something else...
Could her pretend Mr Darcy actually be one in real life? Or does that only happen in a Jane Austen novel?
A wonderfully witty and spicy retelling of Jane Austen's classic tale of enemies to lovers. Fans of bookish happy ever afters will be hooked by this romantic comedy that is perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Ali Hazelwood.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2023
75 people are currently reading
1460 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
January 22, 2024
2.75 stars 🌟 this book was so good until it absolutely wasn’t. for the first 50% of the book, i LOVED the tension between brennoneden. it felt a lot like pride and prejudice and i liked the slow build up. but that’s the tip of the iceberg unfortunately 😆
for the last 40% of the book, brennon and eden were more off then they were on. EDENS AWFUL CHARACTER SWITCH????!! she turned into a total fucking diva when she really had no right to act so bitchy to EVERYONE 😭 also, if u accept someone’s apology, that means you’ve moved on…but clearly she doesn’t know what the fucking means. and brennon being in love with her halfway through the book when they had done like nothing yet was so confusing. (HE WAS JUST IN LOVE AND HEARTBROKEN WEEKS BEFORE??)
anyway, the last half of this booked pissed me off and i hated the way it ended because as a former musical loving kid myself, i had higher hopes for this and it had the potential to be GREAT 💔😪 every character annoyed me in the end and the fact that they get married months after this entire shitshow is INSANE.
i’m begging for a good book bcs so far 2024 has NOT been it for me
for the last 40% of the book, brennon and eden were more off then they were on. EDENS AWFUL CHARACTER SWITCH????!! she turned into a total fucking diva when she really had no right to act so bitchy to EVERYONE 😭 also, if u accept someone’s apology, that means you’ve moved on…but clearly she doesn’t know what the fucking means. and brennon being in love with her halfway through the book when they had done like nothing yet was so confusing. (HE WAS JUST IN LOVE AND HEARTBROKEN WEEKS BEFORE??)
anyway, the last half of this booked pissed me off and i hated the way it ended because as a former musical loving kid myself, i had higher hopes for this and it had the potential to be GREAT 💔😪 every character annoyed me in the end and the fact that they get married months after this entire shitshow is INSANE.
i’m begging for a good book bcs so far 2024 has NOT been it for me
June 18, 2023
It is a truth universally acknowledged that I am always on the lookout for fun and fresh Pride and Prejudice retellings, and I am happy to report that this one delivered. This book is modern, sweet, and it has a Broadway setting which I was so here for ✨
This book has:
• A Broadway setting: Eden and Brennon are none other than Lizzie and Darcy on Broadway’s Pride and Prejudice play.
• Celeb romance (kind of): Brennon is Broadway’s favourite leading man, and Eden is an aspiring actress trying to break into the industry.
• Grumpy x Sunshine: Would it really be a P&P retelling if the hero wasn’t broody and misunderstood? I think not.
• Miscommunication trope: Yes, this staple of P&P is also present.
• A slow-burn romance where the leads are constantly going off script on stage because they just can’t help themselves ✨
Overall, I enjoyed this one so much! It was light, fun, and had such a unique premise. If you’re looking for a slow-burn romance with a fun musical setting, look no further!
Thank you to Alcove Press and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
This book has:
• A Broadway setting: Eden and Brennon are none other than Lizzie and Darcy on Broadway’s Pride and Prejudice play.
• Celeb romance (kind of): Brennon is Broadway’s favourite leading man, and Eden is an aspiring actress trying to break into the industry.
• Grumpy x Sunshine: Would it really be a P&P retelling if the hero wasn’t broody and misunderstood? I think not.
• Miscommunication trope: Yes, this staple of P&P is also present.
• A slow-burn romance where the leads are constantly going off script on stage because they just can’t help themselves ✨
Overall, I enjoyed this one so much! It was light, fun, and had such a unique premise. If you’re looking for a slow-burn romance with a fun musical setting, look no further!
Thank you to Alcove Press and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
October 25, 2023
2023 reads: 325/350
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
when the female lead on a national broadway tour abruptly quits, eden blake may finally have her big break. the downside is she’ll have to kiss broadway’s sweetheart (who she thinks is a jerk), brennon thorne. however, as they get farther into the show, they begin falling for each other with each onstage kiss.
i was a theatre kid in high school, and just the description of this made me really excited so i had to read the whole book. i definitely need more theatre-based romance books because i adored this. i loved how eden and brennon’s offstage discussions translated to the stage (even though the director didn’t always think the same). i highly recommend this to romance fans!
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
when the female lead on a national broadway tour abruptly quits, eden blake may finally have her big break. the downside is she’ll have to kiss broadway’s sweetheart (who she thinks is a jerk), brennon thorne. however, as they get farther into the show, they begin falling for each other with each onstage kiss.
i was a theatre kid in high school, and just the description of this made me really excited so i had to read the whole book. i definitely need more theatre-based romance books because i adored this. i loved how eden and brennon’s offstage discussions translated to the stage (even though the director didn’t always think the same). i highly recommend this to romance fans!
December 18, 2023
This novel truly delivers on its promise, brilliantly blending the vibrancy of musical theatre with the charm of Pride & Prejudice.
For the first 80%, I was completely hooked. It's a delightful rom-com, filled with all the engaging drama and light-heartedness you'd expect. The dynamic between Brennon and Eden is captivating, with their rocky start, undeniable stage presence, and friends who bring their own intriguing subplots. Brennon is a complete idiot in the beginning, similar to Jane Austen's version where you're completely unsure if this character will be likeable by the end of the novel.
However, the story took a turn for me around the 80% mark. Up until then, Eden and Brennon's journey was compelling, marked by misunderstandings and intense chemistry. But as the story neared its conclusion, Eden's character took a dramatic turn that felt a bit overdone. Her hesitation and overreaction just as Brennon was ready to deepen their relationship felt incongruous with the story's earlier tone. It changed the way I viewed Eden and Brennon's romance completely.
In saying that though, it's still a great adaptation of Pride and Prejudice if, like me, you love reading modern takes. If you're a fan of drama with a touch of musical theatre magic, this book is for you.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Embla Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
For the first 80%, I was completely hooked. It's a delightful rom-com, filled with all the engaging drama and light-heartedness you'd expect. The dynamic between Brennon and Eden is captivating, with their rocky start, undeniable stage presence, and friends who bring their own intriguing subplots. Brennon is a complete idiot in the beginning, similar to Jane Austen's version where you're completely unsure if this character will be likeable by the end of the novel.
However, the story took a turn for me around the 80% mark. Up until then, Eden and Brennon's journey was compelling, marked by misunderstandings and intense chemistry. But as the story neared its conclusion, Eden's character took a dramatic turn that felt a bit overdone. Her hesitation and overreaction just as Brennon was ready to deepen their relationship felt incongruous with the story's earlier tone. It changed the way I viewed Eden and Brennon's romance completely.
In saying that though, it's still a great adaptation of Pride and Prejudice if, like me, you love reading modern takes. If you're a fan of drama with a touch of musical theatre magic, this book is for you.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Embla Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2023
his book started out so good and fun and then...
This book is a fun, modern Pride and Prejudice retelling in a Broadway/musical theater setting. It started out exactly how I hoped it would. There was lots of tension, an MMC who was a little conceited and flawed, but still kinda lovable. A strong-willed FMC who was fighting for her position on the tour, and trying to understand the intentions of her fellow castmates. Also, the chemistry between Eden and Brennon was incredible. Their kisses were soooooo good then...
The second half went off the rails for a couple of reasons. One big one was the wishy-washy-ness of the love story. Eden and Brennon would fight, then get back together, then fight and it just kept happening. It didn't make any sense. And they weren't really talking it out so nothing of value was getting resolved. Also, Brennon really went all out on his feelings when they knew nothing about each other. He had just gotten out of a relationship barely a month ago and all-of-a-sudden he's in love with Eden? It was weird. And don't even get me started on that epilogue.
Honestly, there was probably more I abhorred about the second half, but I'll end it there. I don't recommend this book to anyone, sadly.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed a gifted and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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This book is a fun, modern Pride and Prejudice retelling in a Broadway/musical theater setting. It started out exactly how I hoped it would. There was lots of tension, an MMC who was a little conceited and flawed, but still kinda lovable. A strong-willed FMC who was fighting for her position on the tour, and trying to understand the intentions of her fellow castmates. Also, the chemistry between Eden and Brennon was incredible. Their kisses were soooooo good then...
The second half went off the rails for a couple of reasons. One big one was the wishy-washy-ness of the love story. Eden and Brennon would fight, then get back together, then fight and it just kept happening. It didn't make any sense. And they weren't really talking it out so nothing of value was getting resolved. Also, Brennon really went all out on his feelings when they knew nothing about each other. He had just gotten out of a relationship barely a month ago and all-of-a-sudden he's in love with Eden? It was weird. And don't even get me started on that epilogue.
Honestly, there was probably more I abhorred about the second half, but I'll end it there. I don't recommend this book to anyone, sadly.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed a gifted and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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did-not-finish
April 1, 2024"..., and with the kind of perfect timing that had made him a star, he slowly entered her."
Nope.
Nope.
August 11, 2024
She went from absolutely hating him to loving him in like less than a page. You know what, I don’t think enemies to lovers trope books are for me
November 28, 2023
I received a free copy of, Enemies to Lovers, by Amelia Jones, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Actress Eden Blake gets to play in a Jane Austen play, so exciting though her and her male lead Brennon Thorne, do not get along at all, or do they? A cute read.
May 31, 2023
It took me a while to put my thoughts together on this one.
It has all the makings of a great romance book, but there were a few things that unfortunately made me a bit uncomfortable whilst reading.
To start with the good, I really did feel the romance between Eden and Brannon built up really well. It's definitely a slow burn, but I usually prefer a good slow burn romance.
Maddox and Adam were also cute as, and I loved following along with their side story.
The plot was really well thought out, and it had me excited to see what would happen next. I loved the attention to detail with the stage performances, different cities, and the explanations given on roles were easy to follow even as someone who doesn't know the ins and outs of theatre. I also really felt for some of the other characters and absolutely hated a certain few characters for their parts in this book, which was definitely great writing.
Now, the parts that werent so good. For starters, whilst I suppose Brennon wasn't supposed to be super likeable at first, I did honestly kind of hate him. It wasn't just things he said. His actions and even thoughts also implied that he thought less of Eden because of her past work and position. It was honestly kind of gross.
The next reason was throughout the book, there were moments where it was implied that the peoples' size or what they ate mattered. TW for the quote coming, but the book includes things like, "I'm assuming you'll add an extra half hour of cardio" when someone considered eating a strawberry tart. Yes, this might be something people who perform on stage consider, but it's also not just a once off comment in this book like I'd hoped, so I couldn't not mention it. It was to the point where one might consider a trigger warning for these comments honestly.
I mostly enjoyed the book, but those two things just gave me a bit of the ick, even if I was able to read past it.
➛ 𝟑 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘒𝘪𝘴𝘴 𝘣𝘺 𝘈𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘢 𝘑𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴, 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
It has all the makings of a great romance book, but there were a few things that unfortunately made me a bit uncomfortable whilst reading.
To start with the good, I really did feel the romance between Eden and Brannon built up really well. It's definitely a slow burn, but I usually prefer a good slow burn romance.
Maddox and Adam were also cute as, and I loved following along with their side story.
The plot was really well thought out, and it had me excited to see what would happen next. I loved the attention to detail with the stage performances, different cities, and the explanations given on roles were easy to follow even as someone who doesn't know the ins and outs of theatre. I also really felt for some of the other characters and absolutely hated a certain few characters for their parts in this book, which was definitely great writing.
Now, the parts that werent so good. For starters, whilst I suppose Brennon wasn't supposed to be super likeable at first, I did honestly kind of hate him. It wasn't just things he said. His actions and even thoughts also implied that he thought less of Eden because of her past work and position. It was honestly kind of gross.
The next reason was throughout the book, there were moments where it was implied that the peoples' size or what they ate mattered. TW for the quote coming, but the book includes things like, "I'm assuming you'll add an extra half hour of cardio" when someone considered eating a strawberry tart. Yes, this might be something people who perform on stage consider, but it's also not just a once off comment in this book like I'd hoped, so I couldn't not mention it. It was to the point where one might consider a trigger warning for these comments honestly.
I mostly enjoyed the book, but those two things just gave me a bit of the ick, even if I was able to read past it.
➛ 𝟑 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘒𝘪𝘴𝘴 𝘣𝘺 𝘈𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘢 𝘑𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴, 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
March 21, 2024
biggest MEH ever and even a "what the fuck is this". there's just nothing to spark a romance between them, he's just horny and she has impostor syndrome, and suddenly BAM they're in love. and the way their characters evolve... she's nice at first and then she sucks, he sucks at first and then he kind of gets a redemption arc with daddy issues but still sucks and becomes a loser. everyone sucks. if they were all drowning, I would only save Adam and Maddox (and Lili, she was a legend).
I also didn't like the writing at all and that made it 10 times worse. finished the book so angry I had to make myself bubble tea to calm down. bye.
two stars because the epilogue is very good. THAT is the chemistry they should've had the whole time, I feel robbed.
I also didn't like the writing at all and that made it 10 times worse. finished the book so angry I had to make myself bubble tea to calm down. bye.
two stars because the epilogue is very good. THAT is the chemistry they should've had the whole time, I feel robbed.
January 3, 2024
this started off as amazing and then dear god it went downhill way fast
June 16, 2023
Brennon Thorne isn’t as easy to work with as everyone says. Eden learns that the hard way when the Broadway star comes to perform in the same musical as her, playing the male lead. Not only is Brennon egotistical, but he treats everyone, especially those who aren’t as successful as him, like dirt. To make matters worse, when the female lead disappears, it’s Eden who must take her place…which is great, until she remembers the scene in which she has to kiss the male lead. Yet as the two begin to work closely together and passion rises, Eden wonders if she got him all wrong.
This is a stronggg 4 stars. I had such a good time reading this, not only was it a Pride and Prejudice retelling, but it was also a Pride and Prejudice musical. Within the first chapter I was pulled into the story and intrigued by the characters. The whole musical production thing was so fun. I liked how the story delved into the ins and outs of theatre life - it took me into a world that I’ve never really seen before. I felt almost a part of the production, getting to see behind the scenes and into the performer’s lives.
Brennon was rude in the beginning, but as a Mr. Darcy lover, I know he was just misunderstood. As the narrative progresses his true character unfolds, and I came to love Brennon just as I had come to love Mr. Darcy in the original. The relationship between the two main characters was also well developed, I liked that it was slow and built overtime. One thing that irked me a little was the insta-lust Brennon had for Eden, our main character. Personally, it just felt too soon. He got aroused very early on by her in the story, and I just felt it was a little unnecessary (mostly the overuse of the 'c' word, idk if I can say it on here lol) – though totally fine with me once they knew each other a bit more. Otherwise, I absolutely adored this book!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a stronggg 4 stars. I had such a good time reading this, not only was it a Pride and Prejudice retelling, but it was also a Pride and Prejudice musical. Within the first chapter I was pulled into the story and intrigued by the characters. The whole musical production thing was so fun. I liked how the story delved into the ins and outs of theatre life - it took me into a world that I’ve never really seen before. I felt almost a part of the production, getting to see behind the scenes and into the performer’s lives.
Brennon was rude in the beginning, but as a Mr. Darcy lover, I know he was just misunderstood. As the narrative progresses his true character unfolds, and I came to love Brennon just as I had come to love Mr. Darcy in the original. The relationship between the two main characters was also well developed, I liked that it was slow and built overtime. One thing that irked me a little was the insta-lust Brennon had for Eden, our main character. Personally, it just felt too soon. He got aroused very early on by her in the story, and I just felt it was a little unnecessary (mostly the overuse of the 'c' word, idk if I can say it on here lol) – though totally fine with me once they knew each other a bit more. Otherwise, I absolutely adored this book!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2023
My expectations for this book were low but I am happy to be wrong - this was a delight to read! I loved that it was a Pride & Prejudice retelling with a Pride & Prejudice musical as the setting for the story. It’s very easy to see how this story matches pace with Jane Austen’s classic, and I spent a lot of time laughing & agreeing with the characterisations.
I thought Eden & Brennon were wonderful & I loved their chemistry. I also loved the egos & the drama involved with a travelling theatre production. If you love Pride & Prejudice, I think you’ll enjoy this.
Thanks to Alcove Press & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I thought Eden & Brennon were wonderful & I loved their chemistry. I also loved the egos & the drama involved with a travelling theatre production. If you love Pride & Prejudice, I think you’ll enjoy this.
Thanks to Alcove Press & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2023
Thank you to Author Amelia Jones, Alcove Press & Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this fun book! All opinions shared are my own.
I'm a huge fan of the theatre and had high hopes... and boy did this book deliver! I loved the behind the scenes view into the spicy lives of those involved in the touring production of Liz and Darcy: the Musical. FMC Eden was such a relatable personality and I appreciated that she acknowledged her flaws and went after her dreams whilst being authentic to herself.
MMC Brennon was a great compliment to Eden, and I adored the supporting characters. Both friend and foe, they brought all the drama and I felt connected to Eden's besties right away. I also appreciated that the story had a set timeline and the tension built in preparation to the finale.
I really enjoyed this book and its available now!
I'm a huge fan of the theatre and had high hopes... and boy did this book deliver! I loved the behind the scenes view into the spicy lives of those involved in the touring production of Liz and Darcy: the Musical. FMC Eden was such a relatable personality and I appreciated that she acknowledged her flaws and went after her dreams whilst being authentic to herself.
MMC Brennon was a great compliment to Eden, and I adored the supporting characters. Both friend and foe, they brought all the drama and I felt connected to Eden's besties right away. I also appreciated that the story had a set timeline and the tension built in preparation to the finale.
I really enjoyed this book and its available now!
June 2, 2023
I'm a huge Austen fan and this book scratched that itch!!! Brennon and Eden have great chemistry.
So much of what makes Pride and Prejudice work is the class difference and this rendition is really true to that narrative. Plus, they are playing their characters on stage, which is so much fun.
If you love musical theatre, you will love living with this traveling show. And the side characters make you root for them. 5 stars!!
So much of what makes Pride and Prejudice work is the class difference and this rendition is really true to that narrative. Plus, they are playing their characters on stage, which is so much fun.
If you love musical theatre, you will love living with this traveling show. And the side characters make you root for them. 5 stars!!
December 28, 2023
4.5 ✨
Cute modern inspired telling of Pride and Prejudice
Cute modern inspired telling of Pride and Prejudice
January 19, 2024
1 star was too harsh
July 9, 2024
i did NOT enjoy this unfortunately
January 7, 2024
3.5 honestly loved the side characters, the main characters could be a little much at times. Eden was kinda annoying but at the same time her emotions and reactions are similar to ones I would probably have in some situations, so can’t even be mad about it.
October 2, 2024
2.5? Just average and didn't care for or like the guy
November 1, 2023
Enemies to Lovers is a Pride and Prejudice with a modern twist - the twist being that all our characters are actors who perform the musical rendition of Pride and Prejudice on stage.
Eden Blake, the understudy of Elizabeth Bennet, meets Darcy's actor, Brennnon Thorne at a bar. Eden, who has been struggling, and Brennon who has graduated from Juilliard and is a Tony award winning actor - they clash with dislike for one another. Mix that with alcohol and we have the perfect recipe for enemies to lovers.
There were many aspects of the book that I thought were quite well-done. The representation of theatre - the life associated with it, the people - all of it felt pretty accurate based on my limited knowledge. The enemies to lovers aspect was genuine, Eden and Brennon had good reasons to dislike each other; I felt myself raging on behalf of Eden. I definitely got into this novel, started at 12am and finished at 3am. I couldn't put it down because of my anxiety of what came next. Also, I'm a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice and liked the way the author took the core plot points and turned it into something different and contemporary.
Now the other parts of the story. When I heard Brennon normally went for leading ladies, my brain just screamed at me "RED FLAG". But that was explained, so I calmed down a bit. The main reason I couldn't fully enjoy this story was because I felt really frustrated. The misunderstandings were realistic but that didn't stop me from wanting it to stop. The story did start to drag towards the middle, and I wished that the main characters could have more quiet, happy moments together. I think I also expected more of the Pride and Prejudice aspect of quiet longing rather than spice in this (understandable why it's there though).
I'm giving this a 3.5; the positives outnumbered the negatives. And I feel like a different reader would enjoy it more (I prefer more fluff in a story.)
Thank you so much to Amelia Jones, Embla Books and NetGallery for this ARC, these are my honest thoughts.
Eden Blake, the understudy of Elizabeth Bennet, meets Darcy's actor, Brennnon Thorne at a bar. Eden, who has been struggling, and Brennon who has graduated from Juilliard and is a Tony award winning actor - they clash with dislike for one another. Mix that with alcohol and we have the perfect recipe for enemies to lovers.
There were many aspects of the book that I thought were quite well-done. The representation of theatre - the life associated with it, the people - all of it felt pretty accurate based on my limited knowledge. The enemies to lovers aspect was genuine, Eden and Brennon had good reasons to dislike each other; I felt myself raging on behalf of Eden. I definitely got into this novel, started at 12am and finished at 3am. I couldn't put it down because of my anxiety of what came next. Also, I'm a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice and liked the way the author took the core plot points and turned it into something different and contemporary.
Now the other parts of the story. When I heard Brennon normally went for leading ladies, my brain just screamed at me "RED FLAG". But that was explained, so I calmed down a bit. The main reason I couldn't fully enjoy this story was because I felt really frustrated. The misunderstandings were realistic but that didn't stop me from wanting it to stop. The story did start to drag towards the middle, and I wished that the main characters could have more quiet, happy moments together. I think I also expected more of the Pride and Prejudice aspect of quiet longing rather than spice in this (understandable why it's there though).
I'm giving this a 3.5; the positives outnumbered the negatives. And I feel like a different reader would enjoy it more (I prefer more fluff in a story.)
Thank you so much to Amelia Jones, Embla Books and NetGallery for this ARC, these are my honest thoughts.
June 11, 2024
What an addictive Pride and Prejudice retelling! I was completely sucked in! I loved the theatre setting around Pride and Prejudice the Musical. It was easy to distinguish who represented which character (even when it was different to the role they played in the musical) and I loved the modern take on it. I can't believe this book hasn't got more attention! Brennon and Eden's chemistry was amazing and we all love a man who will pull up a chair to enjoy his meal 😏🔥 I've always wanted to see a more hands on Darcy 😂
August 10, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Joining the cast of Liz and Darcy: The Musical was a dream come true for Eden Blake, but she never expected that she would soon become the principal lead for the part of Lizzie as it makes it's debut American tour. And the fact that Broadway royalty, Brennon Thorne is set to play Darcy is a set too far. But where Eden thought she would be having the time of her life, it's clear that Brennon would rather act alongside any one other than herself. However, soon it seems as if the parts they are playing are coming reality, and the chemistry between the two could rival even that of Lizzie and Darcy.
I simply adore anything and everything Pride and Prejudice related, so as soon as I saw the cover and synopsis of this book, I immediately requested it, and dove right in! This was such a great P&P inspired book, and the premise of having a stage show where the cast are starting to embody the characters of Lizzie, Darcy, and all the others, was wonderful. Eden was such a great main character, who felt so real in her vulnerabilities that I wanted to reach into the book and give her a big hug at times. Her and Brennon's chemistry was electric, and they gave as good as they got. Brennon was so rude and grumpy to begin with, but as any P&P lover will know, he was hiding his shyness behind that gruff exterior, which Eden managed to break through. There were so many moments in the book which were the epitome of Lizzie and Darcy's interactions in the original material, but also so new and fresh that it wasn't a clear copy from Austen. I found myself unable to put this book down at all, and needed to see if Eden and Brennon would be able to overcome all of their miscommunication to find their happiness, but it was all worth it in the end. A fantastic Pride & Prejudice inspired contemporary romance!
Joining the cast of Liz and Darcy: The Musical was a dream come true for Eden Blake, but she never expected that she would soon become the principal lead for the part of Lizzie as it makes it's debut American tour. And the fact that Broadway royalty, Brennon Thorne is set to play Darcy is a set too far. But where Eden thought she would be having the time of her life, it's clear that Brennon would rather act alongside any one other than herself. However, soon it seems as if the parts they are playing are coming reality, and the chemistry between the two could rival even that of Lizzie and Darcy.
I simply adore anything and everything Pride and Prejudice related, so as soon as I saw the cover and synopsis of this book, I immediately requested it, and dove right in! This was such a great P&P inspired book, and the premise of having a stage show where the cast are starting to embody the characters of Lizzie, Darcy, and all the others, was wonderful. Eden was such a great main character, who felt so real in her vulnerabilities that I wanted to reach into the book and give her a big hug at times. Her and Brennon's chemistry was electric, and they gave as good as they got. Brennon was so rude and grumpy to begin with, but as any P&P lover will know, he was hiding his shyness behind that gruff exterior, which Eden managed to break through. There were so many moments in the book which were the epitome of Lizzie and Darcy's interactions in the original material, but also so new and fresh that it wasn't a clear copy from Austen. I found myself unable to put this book down at all, and needed to see if Eden and Brennon would be able to overcome all of their miscommunication to find their happiness, but it was all worth it in the end. A fantastic Pride & Prejudice inspired contemporary romance!
July 26, 2024
I could predict what was going to happen from very early on in the book. In particular, when something happened I knew it was going to cause some miscommunication problem and I didn't like it (I hate miscommunication).
I still enjoyed the book though! It's very easy and quick to read, the story flows well and I fell in love with the characters (although sometimes they did get on my nerves). I especially loved that the story feels like a pride and prejudice retelling and I found it funny that the characters are actors playing a pride and prejudice musical!
I have to admit, there have been a few times when parts and bits of dialogues with the two MCs arguing about something, or reacting in a certain way, that I just couldn't understand. I couldn't follow their train of thought and things made no sense to me. Again, even with this, I enjoyed the book! I think something light and cute was exactly what I needed. So if that's what you need too, do read the book!
I think I wanted a bit more after the last chapter, but the epilogue was underwhelming and it kind of felt rushed. It ruined the characters a bit for me. I'm gonna pretend that doesn't exist.
I still enjoyed the book though! It's very easy and quick to read, the story flows well and I fell in love with the characters (although sometimes they did get on my nerves). I especially loved that the story feels like a pride and prejudice retelling and I found it funny that the characters are actors playing a pride and prejudice musical!
I have to admit, there have been a few times when parts and bits of dialogues with the two MCs arguing about something, or reacting in a certain way, that I just couldn't understand. I couldn't follow their train of thought and things made no sense to me. Again, even with this, I enjoyed the book! I think something light and cute was exactly what I needed. So if that's what you need too, do read the book!
I think I wanted a bit more after the last chapter, but the epilogue was underwhelming and it kind of felt rushed. It ruined the characters a bit for me. I'm gonna pretend that doesn't exist.
April 3, 2024
3.5 stars (but 4 officially because i’m too nice)….. ok so i was so tempted to give this 4 stars, maybe even 5; i LOVE a shitty romcom, enemies to lovers, smutty, pride and prejudice inspired book. and for the first 60% i was loving it but then it all felt so slow until the last 10% when it was so rushed !!! like you cannot tell me that these characters felt anything other than lust (i get that sex is a big part of relationships but these two barely actually conversed throughout the book), because why !!!!! in the last 15 pages did they suddenly shag and then two weeks later get married in vegas ?????? the author so could have written an extra ten pages and made the ending much more satisfying. imo that last little bit ruined the book for me bc it could have been done so much better😭😭 which is annoying bc the rest of it was a perfect light hearted romcom with a compelling story and decent characters !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
It was hard to connect to Eden in the beginning amid all the other characters introduced. Her personality was hard to pin down. I feel like I learned more about theatre than her. And don’t expect Brennon to be Darcy-like. He’s cruel and mocking rather than an arrogant-but-still-good person.
The relationships loosely mirror Austen’s, but they don’t play correlating roles in the musical. I think this will appeal more to theatre fans than Austen fans. Brennon was hard to like and Eden lacked depth. The P&P parallels can’t be helped, and this one fell flat for me. With a different play with different friend dynamics, this slow burn, enemies to lovers might hold its own, but it’s not for me.
I received an arc from NetGalley
The relationships loosely mirror Austen’s, but they don’t play correlating roles in the musical. I think this will appeal more to theatre fans than Austen fans. Brennon was hard to like and Eden lacked depth. The P&P parallels can’t be helped, and this one fell flat for me. With a different play with different friend dynamics, this slow burn, enemies to lovers might hold its own, but it’s not for me.
I received an arc from NetGalley
paused-dnf
October 15, 2023DNF @21%
I’ve decided to let this book go. The description was promising, but I’m not getting any humour from this so far, and the characters are insufferable (and I’m saying that as someone who was in the theatre crowd in high school). I’m not sure Brennon can redeem himself in my eyes in the next 260-something pages to win out as the superior love interest, and Eden doesn’t have any dimension to her.
I do think that the theatre crowd might really enjoy this book, but I read a lot and as a result am pretty ruthless when I’m not Viking with a book. This one just isn’t doing it for me.
*I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I’ve decided to let this book go. The description was promising, but I’m not getting any humour from this so far, and the characters are insufferable (and I’m saying that as someone who was in the theatre crowd in high school). I’m not sure Brennon can redeem himself in my eyes in the next 260-something pages to win out as the superior love interest, and Eden doesn’t have any dimension to her.
I do think that the theatre crowd might really enjoy this book, but I read a lot and as a result am pretty ruthless when I’m not Viking with a book. This one just isn’t doing it for me.
*I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
December 20, 2023
I had issues with my ARC (it disappeared off my kindle) - but I did purchase a copy of this book and so would still like to review it.
I think this book has a very specific audience. Readers who love Pride and Prejudice – specifically, those who swooned when the BBC adaptation came out in 1995 and believed with all their being that Colin Firth was the perfect Darcy.
If you are that person - then this book is for you.
We have a twist on the original - with the backdrop of the original to boot.
Eden Blake is the understudy for Elizabeth Bennet in the touring cast of Liz and Darcy: The Musical. This is her chance to shine and prove to all those theatre snobs that she can make it on Broadway - even as they travel across the country and are most certainly not in NYC.
Brennon Thorne is the leading man of the moment. He doesn't audition for roles - he simply expresses an interest, and the role becomes his. He is also reserved, judgemental ... honestly… He's a modern-day Darcy. And he just so happens to step into the role for two months of the tour.
What he doesn't count on is playing against the understudy, rather than the actual lead (who leaves the tour unexpectedly). He certainly doesn’t expect Eden to affect him the way she does. Basically … they become a modern day re-telling of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s romance. They both had the same personality traits – and stubbornness. What follows is much of what you have already read in the past, only it takes place now, on a stage and between two actors. Their meet-cute at the very beginning of the book is such a disaster.
Our grumpy and grumpier (because neither of these two qualify as the “sunshine” character) love story follows much the same path as the original Austen book. If you are looking for something completely fresh and different – you wont find that here. However – I did love the entire backdrop – the theatre, the antics, the castmates. All of that kept this story fresh.
I’m giving this 4 stars. Some of that rating is because of my great love of the BBC P&P and the rest of it is because I enjoyed myself so much while reading.
I think this book has a very specific audience. Readers who love Pride and Prejudice – specifically, those who swooned when the BBC adaptation came out in 1995 and believed with all their being that Colin Firth was the perfect Darcy.
If you are that person - then this book is for you.
We have a twist on the original - with the backdrop of the original to boot.
Eden Blake is the understudy for Elizabeth Bennet in the touring cast of Liz and Darcy: The Musical. This is her chance to shine and prove to all those theatre snobs that she can make it on Broadway - even as they travel across the country and are most certainly not in NYC.
Brennon Thorne is the leading man of the moment. He doesn't audition for roles - he simply expresses an interest, and the role becomes his. He is also reserved, judgemental ... honestly… He's a modern-day Darcy. And he just so happens to step into the role for two months of the tour.
What he doesn't count on is playing against the understudy, rather than the actual lead (who leaves the tour unexpectedly). He certainly doesn’t expect Eden to affect him the way she does. Basically … they become a modern day re-telling of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s romance. They both had the same personality traits – and stubbornness. What follows is much of what you have already read in the past, only it takes place now, on a stage and between two actors. Their meet-cute at the very beginning of the book is such a disaster.
Our grumpy and grumpier (because neither of these two qualify as the “sunshine” character) love story follows much the same path as the original Austen book. If you are looking for something completely fresh and different – you wont find that here. However – I did love the entire backdrop – the theatre, the antics, the castmates. All of that kept this story fresh.
I’m giving this 4 stars. Some of that rating is because of my great love of the BBC P&P and the rest of it is because I enjoyed myself so much while reading.
October 2, 2023
“𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚎𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑. 𝙰 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚊 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚕𝚊𝚍𝚢. 𝙸𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚍𝚎 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚘 𝚊 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚠 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚒𝚝 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗.”
🍷🍷🍷 / 5
🌶️🌶️ / 5
»»————-✼————-««
Review:
A huge thank you to netgally and the author of gifting me an ARC! Also sorry my review is late to the party, life got busy!
Id like to start off by stating I’m very much a speech reader, the more speech the better. It’s the dyslexia and ADHD in me, needing the speech to break up the text and help keep the pace up. Amelia’s writing style is much more wordy than I’m used too, and while sometimes I felt my self skim reading, it was only because I was so engrossed and needed to know what happened next!
I adored Brennon! He was so perfectly broody and misunderstood, but once he fell for Eden my god that man would have any woman in a puddle at his feet🤩 his inability to word what he wanted to say properly was so cute and relatable; at least 6 times a day, I sound rude or d!ck-ish due to me being flustered😅 it broke my heart that he feels like he’s unloveable, I wish I could give him a huge hug to make him feel better🥹
Eden needs to believe in herself more, omg babes you are clearly incredibly talented, but please get out of your head, I could shake the woman and she still would doubt herself! I think it’s a feeling lots of people, especially woman and those less privileged feel. I loved Amelia’s subtle nod to the imposter syndrome that Eden, Lilian even Veronica feel; it hits hard, especially when everyone around you is so talented/good at their jobs. Eden is loveable despite the want to shake her hard, and her character growth is fantastic. I did find her slightly annoying but she won me back and in the end i will forever ship her and Brennon🥹
The Stage Kiss was a fantastic slow burn romance with so many nods to musical theatre and broadway, that any musical theatre fanatic will find themselves obsessed! I enjoyed every page and will definitely be rereading in the future! Also ADAM AND MADOX FOREVER🥹🥹🥹 I want to read their love story😍😍
For lovers of:
- Romcoms
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Musical theatre
- LGBTQ side characters
🍷🍷🍷 / 5
🌶️🌶️ / 5
»»————-✼————-««
Review:
A huge thank you to netgally and the author of gifting me an ARC! Also sorry my review is late to the party, life got busy!
Id like to start off by stating I’m very much a speech reader, the more speech the better. It’s the dyslexia and ADHD in me, needing the speech to break up the text and help keep the pace up. Amelia’s writing style is much more wordy than I’m used too, and while sometimes I felt my self skim reading, it was only because I was so engrossed and needed to know what happened next!
I adored Brennon! He was so perfectly broody and misunderstood, but once he fell for Eden my god that man would have any woman in a puddle at his feet🤩 his inability to word what he wanted to say properly was so cute and relatable; at least 6 times a day, I sound rude or d!ck-ish due to me being flustered😅 it broke my heart that he feels like he’s unloveable, I wish I could give him a huge hug to make him feel better🥹
Eden needs to believe in herself more, omg babes you are clearly incredibly talented, but please get out of your head, I could shake the woman and she still would doubt herself! I think it’s a feeling lots of people, especially woman and those less privileged feel. I loved Amelia’s subtle nod to the imposter syndrome that Eden, Lilian even Veronica feel; it hits hard, especially when everyone around you is so talented/good at their jobs. Eden is loveable despite the want to shake her hard, and her character growth is fantastic. I did find her slightly annoying but she won me back and in the end i will forever ship her and Brennon🥹
The Stage Kiss was a fantastic slow burn romance with so many nods to musical theatre and broadway, that any musical theatre fanatic will find themselves obsessed! I enjoyed every page and will definitely be rereading in the future! Also ADAM AND MADOX FOREVER🥹🥹🥹 I want to read their love story😍😍
For lovers of:
- Romcoms
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Musical theatre
- LGBTQ side characters
November 22, 2023
I was a theater kid growing up and so I love a romance set in a theater! I was also intrigued by the idea of a Pride and Prejudice retelling where the characters are performing the musical.
I really enjoyed The Stage Kiss! I thought Brennon was a spot-on Darcy with his arrogance and privilege. I also thought the idea of an actor's reputation being compared to the Regency's idea of reputation was a really interesting idea. The acting world is small in the same way that regency high society was and also has a similar competitive aspect.
Eden has less of Elizabeth's personality to me. She wants to make it as an actress in a way that Lizzy did not care about high society. I thought she was a sympathetic character but lacked some depth. I really liked the first two-thirds of this book but the last third fell apart a little bit. Some of the major scandals in the original like Lydia running away didn't have exact parallels in this retelling and I felt like it lost some of the needed reasons for Eden/Lizzy to change her mind about Darcy/ Brennon. She ended up seeming a bit flip flopy to me which I am not a fan of in a heroine.
If you are a theater lover and you like a retelling this one is a definite yes. I also think people who are interested in modern interpretations of reputation or Austen retellings in general might enjoy this one. It is a fun read with an interesting take on a classic story.
Thanks to Netgalley and Alcove Press for providing me with this title early in order to write a review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed The Stage Kiss! I thought Brennon was a spot-on Darcy with his arrogance and privilege. I also thought the idea of an actor's reputation being compared to the Regency's idea of reputation was a really interesting idea. The acting world is small in the same way that regency high society was and also has a similar competitive aspect.
Eden has less of Elizabeth's personality to me. She wants to make it as an actress in a way that Lizzy did not care about high society. I thought she was a sympathetic character but lacked some depth. I really liked the first two-thirds of this book but the last third fell apart a little bit. Some of the major scandals in the original like Lydia running away didn't have exact parallels in this retelling and I felt like it lost some of the needed reasons for Eden/Lizzy to change her mind about Darcy/ Brennon. She ended up seeming a bit flip flopy to me which I am not a fan of in a heroine.
If you are a theater lover and you like a retelling this one is a definite yes. I also think people who are interested in modern interpretations of reputation or Austen retellings in general might enjoy this one. It is a fun read with an interesting take on a classic story.
Thanks to Netgalley and Alcove Press for providing me with this title early in order to write a review. All opinions are my own.
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