If you're looking for an Urban Fantasy Romcom that features a reluctant author FMC, a golden retriever MMC, and pesky fictional characters...look no further.It’s not normal for a fictional character to show up in your house demanding you write her book. Right? As a nurse, I know the answer to that question call a psychiatrist immediately. So I do what any self-respecting healthcare professional would do. I decide the warrior princess showing up in my kitchen was a perfectly normal plot twist in my life and I start writing her story. The problem? She, and the rest of the book characters, keep showing up trying to dictate how I write their story. And, let me tell you, they are all very opinionated. Before all this, I was perfectly content with my mediocre life. I was just Lily McDaniel. A simple nurse whose only adventures came in the form of reading, and whose love life was strictly occupied by book boyfriends. But now, between the not-real characters who won’t stop pestering me and the very real (and deliciously handsome) stranger I keep bumping into, my boring life is becoming quite adventurous. I’m just not sure if my adventure will end up with a happily-ever-after or in the psych ward. Because that plot twist of the warrior princess showing up in my life…that was only the beginning.UNWRITTEN is the first book in The Unreal Series, but it has a satisfying, happily-for-now ending that will set things up for a sequel while also leaving the reader - you guessed it - happy for now.
If you're thinking, "I can't believe the author gave her own book a five-star rating," just know that it's because I truly think, from the bottom of my heart, that this book is a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/500 stars. There is no doubt.
I mean, if you're looking for the next ACOTAR, then, honey.... I'm so sorry, this is not it.
BUT if you're looking for a story inspired by overused tropes, perfect book boyfriends, and pesky fictional characters who can't seem to mind their own business - this is the story for you.
I had the pleasure of receiving an ARC of this book, and when I say I devoured it - I mean I DEVOURED it! A lighthearted and action-packed story that will have you enthralled in all of the twists and turns - Unwritten is relatable and funny and will capture your attention on the first page. Cannot wait for the sequel!!
This book is a light, fun, rom-com style read. The main characters are adorable, and I love the romance novel comments made throughout. We're here for them (or at least I am). Sorry I can't explain that better. You'll get it when you see it.
I got about 70% of the way through the book and remember thinking, okay, this is adorable and all, but nothing is really happening.
Just wait. It happens.
If you want a fun palate cleanser between heavy books, or just a literary pick me up - pick this up.
"You know, Lily, things left unwritten tend to be the the things that need to be written the most."
4.25 ⭐s
I received an ARC for Unwritten but life got in the way and I was delayed in being able to finish reading this so my review is a bit late. I want to say a huge thank you to Elisabeth Bell for letting me have access to read this.
Unwritten was a lot of fun, it read just like your favourite romcom movie or book and it really played into the popular tropes that books tends to use these days, but in a satirical and sarcastic way. Lily is a nurse by day, but by night, she doesn't have a lot going on - she spends a lot of time on the couch with her cat and a glass of wine. Then one night a woman appears in her kitchen, a woman dressed in fantasy warrior garb and looking spookily like Lily. She tells Lily she has to write her story, well really she demands it and won't take no for an answer. Naturally, Lily thinks there's something medically wrong with her but when her tests come back negative she has to come to terms with what is happening to her. She starts writing the book, but the appearances start becoming more frequent and things start to get really weird.
I loved that the Lily broke the fourth wall a lot in this book and made comments directly to the reader about what was happening, and especially regarding the tropes scattered throughout - it felt like a mix between Fleabag and Enchanted, and it was so refreshing, entertaining and humorous. Lily was a great FMC - she was smart, brave and witty, and so genuine it really made this story feel like it could be real, despite the magical twists and turns. Her romance with Jake was believable and hot, and it served the storyline well. I also really liked that it delved into the question of mental illnesses that could be causing Lily to hallucinate the characters of the book she's writing - this was where Jake's characters really shone because his backstory was touching and added a level of dimension to their relationship which was really sweet. I just adored how things developed with those two, although I am still questioning what Jake's real first name is? Unless I missed it... but I'm really hoping it's Westley.
There were a few things I wished this book had done a bit more of. Firstly, was that this book is a really quick and easy read, which is great but I do think it means the story felt a little bit rushed and one dimensional at times. I think an extra 100 pages to really flesh out the characters a bit more, to really connect the reality with the make believe and truly bring out more of the craziness that is writing a novel would've benefitted it so much. As someone who is currently in the process of writing my first draft, I wish some more of that fun, challenging author kookiness had come out in this story. Secondly, I wished the focus of the story had been a bit more on what was unravelling with these appearing characters and the storyline of the book Lily was writing. About halfway through the story the plot veers closer to a romance and sort of leaves the other plotline behind for a while, the reason for this is explained well but I think, for me personally, this let the book down just a bit. I also didn't really love the introduction of changing POVs in Part 2 but I think that's more just more preference for book written in first person.
Overall, this was a really fast and fun read, and a really strong debut novel too. I found myself really excited to find out what happened, to keep reading to know how everything turned out. I definitely recommend this book to people who love fantasy and contemporary romance mixed together, who love a good laugh especially at the expense of other authors and readers, and who enjoy a really interesting and surprising plot twist that will leave you wanting more from this story.
I have said before that I’m not keen on books written in the first person and the present tense. I’m even less keen on books written about an author writing a book – especially when the main plot is the author writing a book. I feel that there’s a real danger that it can get self-indulgent. This is a book written in the first person, present tense, about an author writing a book and I loved it.
The book is about Lily, a nurse, who started writing a book many years ago and then forgot about her work. When she is waylaid by a character from the story she had forgotten, it comes as something of a surprise and she needs a lot of convincing before she can take it seriously. It’s fun, complicated and well written and, as a nurse, Lily immediately books tests for brain injuries as she cannot believe that she has just had an encounter with an imaginary person.
This isn’t an adventure story. Without giving too much away, while there are exciting and action packed encounters with the characters from Lily’s book, at the heart this is a light and fun romance. Lily starts falling for Jake, a gorgeous businessman who is intrigued when as he sees her dealing with his uncle’s IV and preparation for surgery. The romance is lovely and sweet and very wholesome. There is nothing explicit in the story. The two main characters are honest and genuine with each other, which makes a refreshing change, and are generally nice people. As I settled into the book, I felt that it was very much a cozy read.
There is a slight drawback to this book. There is a sense that it’s written for writers, particularly romance writers. The chapter headings include The Info Dump, The Miscommunication Trope and The Falling in Love Montage. The writing is excellent, but there is a lot that is driven by the inside joke of this is a writer writing about a writer who is writing and it’s one of the problems that can come up in stories about writers.
I think this is a fun, cozy read even if you’re not a writer, but it’s only fair to let you know that it’s helpful if you know about the idea of Third Act Conflict, the name of one of the chapters and something that can be used when you construct a framework for a novel.
I very much enjoyed this and I’m looking forward to the planned next book. It may not have entirely won me over to ‘first person, present tense, writing about writing’ but it was a sweet, wholesome, enjoyable read and I am happy to recommend it.
I had the opportunity to dive into 'Unwritten' as an ARC, and I'm excited to share my thoughts. First and foremost, I must stress that this book review is entirely my own.
'Unwritten' is a fantasy/romance book that breaks away from the conventional format, and it's a breath of fresh air in the genre. Lily, the main character, is incredibly relatable, thanks to her well-rounded portrayal. She's not just a flawless protagonist but embraces her imperfections with sincerity. This authenticity in her character is a standout feature.
What's fascinating about 'Unwritten' is how it doesn't shy away from familiar tropes. Instead, each chapter heading cleverly reminds you that the author is fully aware of the genre's conventions and is playing with them. The narrative style, where Lily interacts with the characters in her own unwritten book, leans toward making one wonder if she's experiencing visual hallucinations. However, Jake, the male lead, brings a refreshing twist to this trope with his past trauma and support for Lily.
The story ties up neatly, and the chapter headings make it clear that the author is having fun with the genre. This book offers an easy, pleasant, and light-hearted read. If you're in the mood for an urban fantasy romcom featuring a reluctant author as the female lead, a charming golden retriever, and a cast of pesky fictional characters, 'Unwritten' is the perfect choice.
The premise of fictional characters showing up in real life is intriguing, and the book's humor and charm shine through as Lily navigates this unusual situation. 'Unwritten' is a delightful beginning to The Unreal Series, with a satisfying happily-for-now ending that leaves you eagerly anticipating the sequel. It's an enjoyable and imaginative read that's sure to bring a smile to your face.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Title: Unwritten Author: Elisabeth Bell Series: Book One in the Unreal Series Extra reading: The Bonus Chapter Unbelievable, (Sneak Peak for book two)
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 3/5
If you're like me and can understand the strenuous job that entails being a Nurse, well honey, this read is for you. I love the way in which the author describes the hard work Nurses do for their ward and their patients - but throw in steam and urban fantasy? We have this here, wonderful read. Please note; this is what I'd describe as a FTB read, however the connection in which she has written these characters to develop and get to know one another had me hoping for the HEA!
A wonderfully written, light-hearted Romantic Comedy- with sassy characters, golden-retriever vibe book boyfriend- had me giggling the whole read. The bonus? Was all the extra reads- I can not wait for the next installment from this new Author!
I was provided this book as an ARC, and the review is my own. This was a very different format than I am used to for fantasy/romance books. However, it was a refreshing take. Lily was a relatable main character and well written with her loveable bits as well as her flaws that she talked about opening and in earnest. This book didn’t shy away from the troupes, but each chapter heading definitely lets you know that the writer is in on the plot as she is writing the book as the book needs to be written. The narration of Lily as she interacts with the characters in her book to be written does lend more towards one to think she is having visual hallucinations, but the support of Jake (the MMC) and his own past trauma to support was a welcome change on the troupe as well. The ending was a nice tidy finish, and again, it was very clear that the writer was in on the troupes due to the chapter headings. Easy, pleasant, light read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book was so different to most of the romances I’ve previously read. One: I loved that the characters came to life, even just for her at first, because I feel like that’s what writing is. Getting a character in your head and having them begging you to write their story. Two: I thought this book very humorous with all the back and forth banter between her and her characters, and even her and Jake. Three: It was slightly annoying how perfect Jake was, but that’s what fictional book boyfriends are, I suppose. Four: I loved that there was a infertility and miscarriage aspect to this. It’s an unfortunate, fairly common problem in women and to see it addressed in this setting was nice. Five: I loved that it wasn’t spicy and smutty. I’ve come to think that can take away from the plot. There was just enough here.
Overall, this is a great read I think. An easy read. I read it in two sittings. I would recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
~Thank you to Elisabeth for the ARC in exchange for an honest review~
This was an overall good debut novel! It's not my typical read, but I still enjoyed it fairly well. It's an extremely quick read and fast paced. I truly enjoyed the main character. A lot more often than not, I find it difficult to truly connect with a female main character, but this gladly wasn't the case in this story. All in all, it makes for a good YA novel!
I had very minimal issues with the book. To name the biggest one, I would say the writing wasn't all there for me. But again, for a debut novel and for the genre and audience it fits into, it serves itself well. This is just based off of what I've read in the past!
I look forward to reading the sequel someday! I hope everyone who decides to read this book enjoys it!
To be perfectly honest, when a friend tells me they've written a book and gives me access to read it, I don't usually have high expectations. "Unwritten" exceeded every expectation and then some! I adored the personality that shone through from the very first page, the humorous way the main character acknowledged stereotypical writing tropes, and the unique story that was told. From the very beginning, I could envision each character on a movie screen.
I won't include any spoilers in this review; just know that if you enjoy quirky personalities and want to read something with a unique storyline that hasn't been told before, this is the book for you! I'm anxiously awaiting #2!
This debut novel crossed my path a couple of months ago and it’s just been sitting in my kindle, unread. Honestly, I was afraid I wouldn’t like it because it’s a debut. And I REALLY wanted to love it! Well, I worried for nothing because this urban fantasy rom com was such a fun ride!! It had so much fun banter and I loved how the author broke the fourth wall. I loved how this was kind of a story about writing a book, but also it was a fantasy romance. I read this in a few hours because I couldn’t put it down. This was one of the more original plots I’ve read in quite a while! Highly recommended!!
I really enjoyed this! It’s a sweet feel-good love story with an unusual twist. The writing is lovely and the characters are well rounded and likeable. I loved Lily, it was like a friend was telling you about her day and I absolutely adored Jake! This is suitable for most readers. It is definitely a fade to black or closed door book, minimal bad language and violence. I would highly recommend it for when you want something light that will leave you feeling soft and gooey. Just an all round good read. Definitely recommend.
Loved this urban fantasy where the story has a story within (after all the fmc is a writer who is being visited by the unhappy characters in a book she began writing at 17 and hasn't finished) all the while working and finding her luck in love changing for the good. If only this unwritten story didnt have a bad guy eager to be bad. There is some steam but its a closed door romance.
This was such a great intro to the writers style, world building, and how addicting she can be because I'm already craving book #2 asap.
The description tells you what you need to know as far as a summary, but this book perfectly balances what is happening in a believable story that keeps you on your toes whether it is from characters showing up and wreaking havoc… or the romance. If you are a fan of romance this book has a lot of humor around tropes… and then used some of them. (Received advanced reader copy in exchange for honest review)
This book was a quick read that had me laughing during the scenes when Ash would show up in the real world. Lily is a surgical nurse who is suddenly visited by a princess during one of her dreams and is compelled to write the story of Alandia. Along the way there's humor, romance, and suspense. What else can you hope for?
Wow, I have to say that I have never read anything like this, and that is s Great thing. This is a fun Rom Com, and a story that I just could not put down, once I started it. Lily and Jake are great MCs and I Loved Them!!! Fantastic Read! No Spoilers! I received an ARC and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and Loved this story!!!
Great story with interesting plot twists and likable characters! I love the banter between the leads. As a nurse, sometimes I reluctant to read anything healthcare related, but this one wasn’t what I expected. I loved it and look forward to seeing what this author does next.
Received this ARC and can’t wait for the sequel! This was such a fun read! So glad I came across Elisabeth’s post asking for volunteers to read this. Looking forward to learning what the W stands for!
Mind blown! This book was good! Like I read it in 4 hours good. I’ve been in a reading slump. This was perfect! I loved Lily. Ash was kick ass. This book had me smiling and laughing. If you like a real main character this is for you. I thought it was the perfect book. Highly recommend!
This book is freaking amazing! Has Princess Bride vibes going on, adding in a dragon (wyvern) and a villain that just won't quit. I loved the premise of this storyline, and I think it was extremely well written, had me desperate to read more. Can't wait to read the next book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book drew me in from the start. It moved along handily, it is light and funny, and the book characters popping in at unexpected times added just the right amount of twist. Definitely, an excellent story and I, for one, can't wait for the 2nd book!
I was lucky to be given the chance to be an ARC reader of this book. It is an adorable story, great idea, fun twists, and a quick read. I think it’s great if you’re looking for a short book.