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Save the Drama for Your Mama

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Forget meet-cute. This is a meet-disaster.

Melody
Cooper Galloway was my bookstore crush for all of five minutes. Then he opened his mouth and ruined my fantasy. Things go from bad to worse when I arrive for my new job and HE greets me at the door. Yet as Cooper stomps around like an ogre, his piercing gaze tracks my movements as I work, and I can’t tell if he wants to fire me or practice his bodice-ripping skills. Something is simmering beneath our bickering, and it ain’t pasta sauce.

Cooper
I have three weeks to finish writing my novel, and a peaceful summer at my late mother’s home is just the ticket. However, my plans are derailed when my brother arrives with a crew, ready to restore the property. Amidst the chaos is Melody, the restoration specialist who’s also an expert in pushing my buttons. Strong, confident women are usually my weakness, but I don’t have time for distractions. Trouble is, after a few days together, Melody appears to be my muse. Now, I just need to keep her from consuming my thoughts long enough to finish my book.

Novel Intentions is a small town, opposites attract, forced proximity romcom.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2023

59 people are currently reading
5836 people want to read

About the author

Rich Amooi

32 books639 followers
Rich Amooi is a Taleflick Discovery Winner, Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Recipient, Holt Medallion Finalist, and the Amazon Bestselling author of 24 romantic comedies, including It's Not PMS, It's You, Dying to Meet You, Royal Crush, and Men or Paws.

A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.

Get a FREE romantic comedy by visiting his website at https://www.richamooi.com.

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5 stars
190 (63%)
4 stars
73 (24%)
3 stars
26 (8%)
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7 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Maria.
3,019 reviews96 followers
October 16, 2023
This was cute. I’m a huge fan of banter and Rich Amooi did a great job of making it fun and believable. I loved the discovery of items in the attic that brings Melody and Cooper together but I was annoyed by their naivete in figuring out how it all fit together (it was brief but pretty obvious, especially for something that happened around the 1980s not 1880s). Other than that brief annoyance, I liked the story and found the characters to be fun. Bonus points for adding San Clemente, one of my favorite places. Recommended for a quick, light read.

I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Paige.
172 reviews5 followers
September 25, 2023
Save the Drama for Your Mama is a cute, funny, oppisites attract romance. I couldn't put it down. Literally, I read it in one sitting. It is a really sweet story along with the two fanstic personalities matching each other wit for wit in banter. Their snarky back and forth brings so much lightness to some of the heavier topics that comeup. The setting is a small beach town, which adds to the charm (and keeps them from running away drom each other).

Was it realistic? Absolutely not. Was it a delight to read? 100% YES! It is a light, fun read thay will definitely lift your spirits and put a smile on your face.
Profile Image for Nancy Ku.
1,496 reviews17 followers
September 15, 2023
Save the Drama for Your Mama by Rich Amooi
Thank you, Rich, for a great story. Melody and Cooper are both interesting likable characters. He is living in his late mother's house, and she is helping restore it. He is trying to meet the deadline on his next book and the work on the house is not helping and neither is grieving his mother's death. There is angst, a cute meet, friend and family, discoveries, a "ghost," growing attraction, laughter and some tears all to get to a very HEA.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read Entertaining Funny Great world building Happily Ever After Page-turner Romantic Tear-jerker Unpredictable Wonderful characters.
Profile Image for Gary R Borman.
139 reviews1 follower
October 6, 2023
so enjoyable 👏🏻

As always you are going to enjoy any book that Rich Amooi writes, this one I could not put down and loved every minute reading. Hollywood should definitely make this into a RomCom👏🏻😊🩵
Profile Image for Kelly Simpson.
615 reviews17 followers
October 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, can't wait to read more by this authorcin the future. They have a great writing style that keeps you hooked till the end of the book.
1,221 reviews36 followers
October 1, 2023
I loved this quick, fun romance. The characters are great. There's plenty of humor. There was an aspect I didn't expect and I enjoyed how it played out. I read it in one sitting. This would definitely be a top beach read for me.
594 reviews10 followers
September 24, 2023
Another fun read from this author. His sense of humour really tickles my funny bone and I have a great time reading his books. The banter in this book is on point. I laughed out loud reading it, and usually I just smile or chuckle a little. In the copyright disclaimer at the beginning (if you ever wondered if anyone reads those…I do), the author says, “Warning: This book is so good, you may get paper cuts from turning the pages too quickly.” Good thing I read on an e-reader, lol. This story moves from enemies to friends to love over the course of the book. It was fun to see all the stages of the relationship, from the initial antagonism to working together and building a friendship to accepting and admitting that they both felt and wanted more. And some pretty good kisses too. An absolute must for a good romance. After an unpromising introduction, Melody, an expert in historic property restoration, ended up staying in Cooper’s family home with him while the renovation was in progress. Cooper, a bestselling author trying to find his muse to help him produce a second book, was not exactly thrilled by the forced proximity or the distraction. When they started going through Cooper’s recently deceased mother’s things in the attic, they discovered more than they bargained for. Including some intrigue and mystery. There is also a slight paranormal element to this story, but it is light. More along the lines of friendly potential ghostly activity. Melody’s alternative expressions throughout the story were cute. I enjoyed her enthusiasm and fun personality. And Cooper, in spite of his initial grumpiness and, “contradiction affliction”, was actually really a sweet guy. I enjoyed the book. And filed under, “things no one wants to know”, is that my new catchphrase is going to be: “‘Give it a rest, chicken breast.’” Sometimes things you read just stick with you, ha ha. This is a closed door story with some innuendo and a few instances of mild harsh language.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marie.
826 reviews15 followers
September 18, 2023
Melody is definitely who loves historical romance, historical houses, old coins I think you get the idea. So when she sees the most dashingly handsome man browsing through the romance section of her best friends book store. Then she realises he actually reading through Pride and Prejudice, could things get any better. Cooper is a best selling author dealing with the loss of his mother. He confronts Melody saying she's spying on him, then proceeds to pull to bits the book in his hands. Realising he's not perfect after all, and then a minor disagreement about his best selling book not knowing he's the author she leaves the shop and him behind. They are then both disappointed to find that she's working on the restoration of his mother's house. Can things get any worse, will they both survive the summer. Or will the many secrets the attic hold or the haunted study with the mysterious notes bring them together. I loved how the characters blend the history of the house and the present together. I enjoyed the twists and turns and laughed at the antics that happen. I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC copy and this is my own personal and honest opinion and review of the book. I'm certain you'll enjoy this just as much as I did
Profile Image for Tia.
1,099 reviews22 followers
March 21, 2024
This was fun! I loved the banter between the two main characters and some of the scenes made me giggle. The story was sweet and I really loved Melody and Cooper together.

I enjoyed the premise but I did think some of the story lines were a little bit bizarre and didn’t really need to be included, especially since all of the issues were resolved immediately and there was no tension points?

I didn’t love the writing style, it felt really stilted at times (the author was a fan of using the phrase “just then” which really bothered me for some reason).

The conflict also made me so mad, it was so late in the book and it was almost like the author was like “oh crap I need to shove a conflict in” because it came out of nowhere, didn’t really make sense and then it was resolved immediately and in such an over the top way 😂
2,318 reviews11 followers
September 15, 2023
Total Enjoyment!
This was such an enjoyable, slow burn contemporary romance about two characters who challenge each other and as time goes by they find themselves falling in love.
Having read just about all of Rich Amooi’s books, I often wonder where he gets his unique ideas from because each book is a beautiful romance but totally different from any of his others.
The other thing I would like to make a note of is that there are not many male authors who can write a really good romance and keep it light, full of humour and yet very romantic so that it appeals to the female romantics worldwide - this author certain does all that!
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book and my voluntary review is above.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
September 21, 2023
That was so cute. Cooper and Melody start out with all the snark and spite of every ‘enemies to lovers’ story everywhere. But then they’re forced to encounter one another on a regular basis, and they quickly discover that they’re maybe not as different as they first thought. The mystery Coop’s mother left for him, gave me some soap opera vibes, but they worked perfectly for the story. And the biting sarcasm and one-liners that pepper the text left me doing spit take after spit take while I read. I had so much fun with these characters, I don’t want to let go of them now that the book’s over.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
Profile Image for Marcia Rovins.
11 reviews1 follower
September 18, 2023
Another wonderful romantic comedy by Rich Amooi. Along with his usual interesting characters, snappy dialogue and the occasional cute dog, this book adds some mystery and things that go bump in the night. I loved the relationship that developed between Cooper and Melody and all the interesting things we learned about Mama along the way. Definitely a must read!
467 reviews
October 9, 2023
Another fun read by this author. Downloaded it as Save The Drama For Your Mama but about halfway through it the name changed to Novel Intentions whish was a little strange but I like that title better than the one it d/l as.
11 reviews
October 19, 2023
Rich Amooi, your books just keep getting better!

I love that Novel Intent is different from previous Amooi books, but kept the witty characters and engaging dialogue that I look forward to from his books.
Profile Image for Leigh.
14 reviews1 follower
September 22, 2023
Amooi surprised me greatly by bringing to life an engaging story which drew me in, kept me rapt, made me laugh, and touched me (not like THAT, Melody!). I say "surprised me" since this is not a genre I normally indulge in. I could count the number of romances I've read in my life on one hand and have fingers left.

So, thank you, Mr. Amooi, for providing such a light, fun read that still had some meat in terms of the history and the puzzles to be solved. The book was exceptionally well-written with excellent attention to detail (errors of spelling and grammar are very annoying and distracting to me as a reader). The only real criticism I could level would be that I found the ending perhaps a bit too syrupy for my taste - but again, this isn't my usual fare. Overall - fabulous dialogue, excellent tension between the characters, realistic interactions. A delightfully lighthearted escape novel.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.7k reviews362 followers
September 22, 2023
Bantering All the Way to Love . . .

This well-written storyline will keep the reader laughing as we watch Melody Segal and Cooper Galloway from first-time meeting to wherever their destiny takes them. At first sight, Melody was pleased when she saw him, until he spoke and dashed her dreams. When he goes to his late mother’s home where he had sought peace and quiet to write his novel which was due in a few weeks, his brother’s crew, along with the restoration specialist his brother hired to renovate the home, arrives. And of course the specialist is strong, confident Melody! Can he keep his mind off her long enough to reach his deadline? Will the close proximity help them notice their attraction?

I just love humor, especially when applied as the author has done to strong personalities who are so busy verbally sparring that they don’t realize that something more is going on between them. Grab your copy and enjoy their story.
16 reviews
September 25, 2023
What can I say? I’m a sucker for a HEA and Rich did not disappoint! Despite the physical attraction, Cooper and Melody start off as enemies warring over her favorite book. As they’re thrown together in different situations, they find they have more in common than they could have imagined. This book deals with loss of a loved one, loyalty of old friends and an unfolding mystery leading to discovery of a past well hidden. It will make you laugh and tear up in spots but you’ll mostly be sighing and smiling. Rich Amooi is my favorite romantic comedy writer and I highly recommend this heartwarming romance.
190 reviews10 followers
September 30, 2023
Fun book

Rich Amooi's books are so much fun. The characters are usually light-hearted and mature. As in, they usually don't do stressful dramatic issues. But they always grow together as a couple. And that's what I love the best.

Cooper is just a modern Mr. Darcy, but less broody and mysterious or condescending. Melody is a modern Elizabeth (of course) and learns to overcome her pride and prejudices just as Cooper does.

All characters are happy in their lives and not vengeful. I think that's the strength of Rich Amooi's stories. They reach our heart and stay there.

Loved all references to classics, architecture, regency dreams, snails, cooking, photography, sky-jumping, cats, dogs, typewriters, and tree-houses.

My only question is who wrote the notes on the typewriter?
Profile Image for Chantel Sampino.
44 reviews
October 7, 2023
Another knock out of the park story

Great story! Had me laughing from page one! Made my sister jealous because its on her tbr list and i was cracking up reading next to her. Cannot wait for the next story!
33 reviews
October 9, 2023
Cute story - He ended up changing the name of the book and the second title is much better and fits the book.

An easy read, Rich Amooi book .
300 reviews
October 10, 2023
Love, humor and wit

This book was a great read. The characters are funny and witty. Melody and zcooper were a perfect match. Alfredo is an uncle everyone needs. The mom's contribution was insightful. Would definitely reccomend.
127 reviews
October 20, 2023
The Best

I love all Rich Amooi’s books and each one I read is better then the last one I read. Melody and Cooper make this story special. They bicker and Coop starts off as a grump but he does not stay that way. Melody stands up for herself and they end up making the perfect couple even if the disagree on some things. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.
666 reviews5 followers
October 9, 2023
Adorable

A truly delightful and beautiful story! Chad wasn't my favorite character in that he was way too eager for the money not into family and sentimentality. But all turns out well. A great story and I highly recommend this book and author!
Profile Image for deborah.
7 reviews
October 1, 2023
What do you get when you cross a classic romantic book loving woman with a futuristic romantic/ action hero male author? Pure combustion and comedy. I spent most of the time laughing because of the way Rich Amooi wrote the book.

Melody and Cooper are wonderfully written as well as all the other characters. Rich even wrote in Victorian English which had me cracking up. I loved how the book was written from Cooper's point of view instead of Melody's as romance novels are normally written from the woman's perspective.
This is a great book and a must read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,375 reviews8 followers
October 1, 2023
Laughed Out Loud While Reading Cover to Cover

Oh, my goodness, my face hurts from laughing so much! I absolutely loved this book and anything this author writes! Melody had me laughing from the very beginning. Cooper was a delight to get to know. All the history, mystery, and surprises made this impossible to put down. All those kisses were perfect as well. Wonderful book from beginning to end!
Profile Image for Kristah.
132 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2023
Wow! Just wow! I could not put this book down. Literally! I read it all in one swoop. This is not just a romantic comedy. It also has a good amount of mystery to it!! If you like a romance book that makes you chuckle and has you trying to figure out all of the secrets of the house, read this!

If I could give this 10/5 stars I would!

Thank you NetGalley and Rich Amooi for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Meredith MacKenzie.
20 reviews3 followers
September 28, 2023
It’s a truth universally acknowledged that this is a fun one! Lots of banter, literary references, bookish people, a mystery, and some ghostly fun in time for Spooky Season! This is the perfect fall romcom. Pairs well with a Pumpkin Spice Latte (or Peach Smoothie).
Profile Image for Maureen Belanger.
44 reviews
September 26, 2023
Rich did it again! Entertaining and laugh out loud funny, this book has lovable characters that are very sweet and especially relatable. I like that we get all the romance without graphic sexual content. I actually woke up in the middle of the night to finish the story. Loved it!
Profile Image for casvec.
7,458 reviews75 followers
September 22, 2023
This is story that had my side hurting and me gasping for air as I enjoyed and laughed as I got lost in Melody and Cooper's story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews

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