Yes No Maybe

by Jessica Sherry

"I was ravenous for this story as it was unfolding, and then I was gutted and giddy along the way. YES NO MAYBE is everything I love in a contemporary romance. A gorgeous gem of a novel." - Tarah DeWitt, USA Today bestselling author of SAVOR IT

Her past holds her back. His present lacks inspiration. When fate brings her to the house next door, will these feuding neighbors find an unexpected future?

Rowan Mackey avoids attention. Wounded by burns as a teenager and jaded by dating ever since, she avoids romance or anything that puts her in the spotlight. So, when her boyfriend gives her an unexpected public proposal, she chokes on her answer. Longing to salvage her last hope for love and the comfortable safety Dean offers, Rowan buys the perfect little house to fix things.

The problem is her next-door nemesis, Jack Graham—a best-selling romance writer and unapologetic playboy. He prefers throwing parties and late-night writing tantrums to welcoming his unwanted neighbor. But when clashes with Rowan end his year-long writer’s block, he seeks out his reluctant muse under atypical constraints: Neighbor. Engaged. Off-limits.

But boundaries blur with their growing connection. Will Rowan risk her safe life with Dean for the grumpy playboy next door? Will Jack find the inspiration he craves with the one woman he shouldn’t?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Enemies To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Chick Lit, Friends To Lovers

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2024

About the author

Jessica loves stories that make her heart race, one way or another, so it’s no wonder that she writes mysteries and romances. Her novels feature broken, imperfect people, emotional plots, quirky found families, and better-ever-afters. She aches for a good story and loves building worlds where people laugh, cry, hurt, find themselves, and, of course, fall in love. When she isn’t lost in a book, she finds inspiration at the beach, on her daily park walks, thrift store shopping, and hanging out in beautiful Wilmington, NC, where she lives with her family. Connect and follow her on Instagram & TikTok @authorjessicasherry

Reviews

[jenny reads a lot · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ | TikTok | IG |

Yes No Maybe is an onion, there are many layers to this story and its characters, and just like an onion, this novel is likely to make you cry.

Short version

Heartwarming, swoon-worthy, gut wrenching, break you down and build you back together again story, with found family, dual POV, flawed characters, and an epic love. Run don’t walk to read this now.

Official cry count = 17.

Yes, thats right, this book made me cry no less than 17 times. Including 1 cry during the author’s note and 2 cries hours after I finished (I call those aftershocks).

Before you let the number of potential tears scare you away you should know that while I expect everyone to enjoy and connect with this book, my tear count is probably outside of the bell curve. I connected deeply with these characters and their lives - I especially related to Rowan. If you feel connections with any of the following topics you might find your tear count also falls outside the norm, and can expect increased volume.
- assault - foster care - emotional abuse - physical scars - military parent - housing instability (moving a lot) - familial death - cancer-

But please do not let any of that shy you away either, Jessica Sherry does an absolutely phenomenal job of handling hard topics in a way that will leave your heart full by the end of the book.

——

I expected to have fun with this book, there is a cat on the cover and a tattooed grumpy romance writer for an MMC, what’s not to love? What I didn’t expect was to be absolutely blown away by this story. It feels like nothing I could write or say about this book would really do it justice, but alas, I shall try.

The main characters feel real, fully fleshed out, like I might bump into Rowan and Jack on my walk down Front Street (that’s a Wilmington reference 😉) or wait in line at Old Books for a chance at a signed copy of Jack’s new book. They are flawed, but self-aware (or at least they eventually become self-aware) and there trauma and past are handled in ways that cement the “real” feel but still provide you with a happily ever after. Our side characters have just the right amount of depth and quirk and spirit without stealing the show - although some of them certainly try.

Jack and Rowan’s love story is epic, it will sweep you up and carry you away - think a stream that turns into a river that flows into rapids and finally takes you over the edge of a waterfall, but instead of a plummet toward your death you fall gently into a deep love built on mutual respect, openness, and understanding (and a little ravishing).

This book is absolutely breathtaking, incredibly well-written (and well edited) the pacing is absolute perfection and the story feels so real and authentic. I am flabbergasted that this is a self-published work and need Jessica Sherry to score the big book deal she deserves like yesterday.

PS you definitely should sign up for her emails and score yourself the bonus epilogue.

I’m off to hide in a hole and devour the rest of her books.

Thank you NetGalley and Jessica Sherry for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Tarah DeWitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't tell you how this book came across my radar, but I'm so thrilled that it did. I downloaded it on a whim from KU, got in the bath, and before I knew it my husband was checking to see if I was okay because I'd been in said bath for an hour and a half. Friends, the depth to these characters. The delicious tension. The PROSE. This had everything I love in a contemporary romance. I was ravenous for the story unfolding and then I was gutted and then I was giddy, all while my brain was tickled by truly wonderful writing. Please go read this gorgeous gem of a novel. Thank you.

[Shauni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute and heartwarming book. I enjoyed the chemistry between Rowan and Jack, along with their busy-body neighbors. After living with the scars from devastating burns for most of her life, Rowan is used to the stares and judgement she receives. When she moves next door to Jack, a famous romance author, she expects the same from him. But the more she gets to know Jack, the more surprised and confused she becomes.

This book brought a whirlwind of emotions. The author does a good job portraying Rowan's trauma and strength. I enjoyed the elements of humor, swoony romance, and found family.

Thank you Netgalley and Jessica Sherry for the opportunity to read this adorable ARC.

[Destiny Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ This is one of the most beautifully unique & authentic romances I’ve EVER read.

This book was the perfect blend of deep & emotional with the fun giddy banter that has you laughing so much!
The whole book has so many layers that you have to unfold as you read, as well as the characters!
I found the FMC to be so admirable. Her struggles are so raw & real but she’s got so much SELF WORTH. I absolutely LOVED her! She can get down sometimes like the rest of us but that girl knows what she deserves!
I loved how soft & gentle Jack was with her. He really SAW her for her. HE WAS JUST SO SWEET😭 I also love the way he spoke about his passions and his writing. The way he describes romance… STOP😭🫶🏼 OHHH & HE HAS MY LAST NAME *AAAAHHHHHH*

“Rowan… This is the beautiful face of a woman who can handle anything.”

[seher · Rating 4 out of 5]

➸ 4.5 stars ★
This beautifully thought-out, well-written book evokes incredible emotions and has a genuine authenticity, and I never expected to love it as much as I did. This story has everything in it: characters that are real, flawed, and honest with each other, amazing cats, heartwarming foster children, a hilarious neighbourhood and found family, and lots of books because Jack, our male lead, is a romance author. Can a man get even better than that?

Even though the story is incredibly hopeful and, at times, lighthearted, the themes and topics in this one are tough and real-life struggles that are talked about realistically. I loved the character's connection because it was genuine and realistic. They fell in love slowly, with lots of banter, serious conversations, and sticking up for each other.

This book feels like a warm hug and lots of love because it also features my favourite tropes: He's her grumpy neighbour and can't stay away from her because he definitely falls first. Oh, and he writes about her. He has been ever since he saw her years before their actual meeting. Jack is the blueprint, I'm telling you. Everyone and their mothers love him for a reason.

This book is for everyone who loves books by Abby Jimenez, Mazey Eddings, and Tarah DeWitt because it handles sensitive topics carefully, and the characters will only leave your mind long after you've read their story. I definitely want more from this neighbourhood.

Thank you, NetGalley and Jessica Sherry, for my first ARC. It means a lot to me, and I'm honoured to have been able to read this masterpiece before publication.

[Michelle Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this over two days - and loved it. Initially I wanted to read this because my arms, hands, and legs are covered in scars from being hit by a car as a pedestrian when I was a teenager and the dozen-plus subsequent surgeries I had after. When I was younger, I was highly insecure about my appearance and it made me feel lesser than.

I adored Rowan and Jack, the Little House, and the neighborhood and Edgar Allan Poe (we have our own black cat - our little panther).

Jack and Rowan both grow and evolve over the course of the story and it adds a wonderful depth. The secondary characters add so much.

I enjoyed this one very much.


*I am curious as to exactly where Rowan teaches high school in North Carolina that she’s able to afford to keep a bunch of always hungry teenagers stocked up with snacks.

*Being given an ARC always feels like an honor to me as well ❤️



Thank you to Jessica Sherry and NetGalley for the DRC

[❤️❀✩ Lala Reads Too ✩❀❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This got me feeling like typing up a good old long review. So let's get it!

Ok, so this one was one for the girls like me that enjoy reading books that are as sweet as 🧁.

So here’s the story, a quirky high school English teacher with a heart as big as the moon 🌔and scars from a past she's still learning to live with. Then you have Jack, the grumpy yet secretly mushy bestselling author next door. 📚

From the moment Rowan and Jack's paths crossed, I was hooked. 🎣
I even managed to get over Rowan’s name (she shares the name of a uni mean girl ).

Their chemistry and banter( i never use that word but here, it seems quite appropriate) had me smiling from ear to ear, and I annoyed my husband a few times while he was playing video games by reading a few extracts. Even HE smiled a lil bit even though erm... erm.…I made him lose his game 😂.




But anyway, it wasn't just their love story that stole my heart and made me smile. It was the characters! From the nosy neighbours to the cute animals…what more could I have asked for? 🤗

As my previous read (that was dystopia btw), this book took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions but not for the same reasons.

I wasn’t throwing my book violently on the floor because of ENDLESS unnecessary fighting here, no, here, the rollercoaster was pleasant. It was the kind of experience you remember years later because you remember all the nervous giggles you had at the top of the ride, and not because you threw up movie-style on your crush. (👀).
Rowan had a beautiful journey from self-doubt to self-love, and through that, Jack, of course, was THE ultimate book boyfriend with his kinda cheesy🧀 but sweet words and unexpectedly soft heart.

I kinda felt like I was cheating on hubby by fantasising on him.

But it wasn't just the romance, of course. I’d have been bored otherwise. I enjoyed the way Jessica tackled insecurities to rebuilding broken relationships and teaching resilience. Not dissimilar to Lynn Painter, Jessica Sherry has a way with words that feels somewhat comforting. It feels like a warm hug which…I’m not gonna lie, I needed that after my last book that will haunt me for a while.

This one is for the hopeless romantics and lovers of modern romance stories. A great palate cleanser with all the common modern tropes you find in contemporary romance like opposites attract, found family, friends to lovers etc, etc. No fake dating here and THANK GOD. I think I’m suffering from a “fake dating” overload. It’s EVERYWHERE.

Another good read that I enjoyed so much, that I finished it in a day. Yay. ☺️

So, to Netgalley and Jessica Sherry, I say thank you for this adorable ARC! 🌸💖

[Liane · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book came to me via Netgalley – I liked the concept and wanted something fun and quick to read. And Yes No Maybe delivered just that 😊

This is the story of Rowan, an English Lit teacher at her local high school. Rowan is proposed to by her fellow-teacher-slash-desperate-to-have-his-big-break-actor boyfriend, Dean, in a very public setting which leads her to respond to his question to marry him with “yes. no… maybe”. While Dean decides to go on a summer-long road trip with his wannabe-actor pals (driven by the humiliation of Rowan’s response, so he claims) to score some roles – and ideally his big break – Rowan decides to buy that house that she’s been eyeing up and moves into a new neighborhood that has the grumpy-to-her-sunshine romance writer Jack as her next door neighbor.

This book is “only” a three-star read for me. I did have a great time reading it and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a found family, sassy teenagers, and a lot of literary talk in their romances. This book also deals with a lot of trauma which I think it handled really tenderly, giving Rowan a lot of different facets and colors.

But as much as I enjoyed the actual story and many of the characters, the book did feel rushed to me. There are a lot of side plots – issues/developments that popped up that I don’t think needed to be included. This diluted the overall story and many things were “sorted” somewhat unsatisfyingly. It felt at times that in order to drive the story forward, another issue needed to be added. And then another one. So I didn’t necessarily feel this progressed naturally.

I also wish the reader would’ve been clued in on the actual incident of Rowan’s scars sooner. We only find out the real, heartbreaking reason once we’re way over 50% into the book. It keeps us at a distance and makes understanding certain aspects of Rowan’s life (and of another character’s) difficult.

We were also told a lot of things instead of being shown them. One example is our desperate-to-have-his-big-break-actor fiancé Dean: for up to 90% of the book he is pretty insufferable and mean… until suddenly he is not but instead is the great friend he’s apparently always been.

Then there’s our MMC – Jack. Oh man, I don’t know where to start. I find Jack kinda (totally) unlikable. He’s not just portrayed as the grumpy, sexy, handsome, smart neighbor, he is also particularly slutty (no shame in his game – just a statement of facts) even when he starts spending more time with Rowan and clearly takes a liking to her.
(I think I might be spoiled by the Ali Hazelwood’s, Mariana Zapata’s, or Elsie Silver’s who have their MMCs “sort out” their sex lives usually before they meet the FMC. And I like that as it shows the behavior has changed instead of just having to take the dude’s word for it.)
And here lies my biggest problem: like Rowan, I don’t know where we stand with Jack. When we’re in his storyline, he tells us a lot about how he feels and his intentions. When we’re with Rowan, we see very little of that. (That scene when Rowan witnesses yet another woman in his “rotation” arrive at his front door… nope, no thank you.)

With all that being said – this is a very well written book. I like the banter between the characters, I think the teenagers are portrayed really, really well, and I like the strength of our girl Rowan. The dudes I don’t care about at all within the romance setting – but outside of it, they’re entertaining, too. Would I read another book by the author? For sure! I know I’d enjoy the journey and have laugh-out-loud moments.


🌶️ Spice-level: not closed-door but still pretty tame

[Hayley Gallant · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

"But be proud of your scars, Rowan. Inside and out. They tell stories - stories worth sharing. You survived something difficult. You're still surviving it. Your worldview is forever altered and unique. That doesn't make you less than. It makes you badass."

Such a good read! Another great book by Jessica Sherry! 💖

I found it to have a little bit of a slow start for me & it was a very slow burn ... BUT the characters were absolutely amazing. I loved the deep issues that both main characters have gone through in their life and the neighbors were perfection.

& that ending was just perfect! 😍

You get:
• Dual POV
• Author MMC
• Teacher FMC
• Enemies To Lovers
• Slow Burn
• Past Trauma
• Found Family

I highly recommend this book and you can pick it up on Amazon, through ebook or paperback!

"The best things require the most risk."

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes No Maybe by Jessica Sherry is such a lovely story!
Rowan, a high school English teacher, navigates life keeping everyone - including her boyfriend - an arms length away. At 15, she was burned by boiling water, and the physical scars that remain on her face, neck, and arm are not her only scars from the incident. After a school play her students put on, her boyfriend Dean proposes to her. Even knowing she hates eyes on her, he still drags her onto the stage. When nerves take over and she fumbles her answer, Dean is embarrassed and mad. He needs space and is going to spend the summer pursuing his acting career.. without Rowan. After he leaves, Rowan is moving into her new house when she meets her obnoxious, party- boy neighbor, Jack. Despite their first impressions, it turns out they have quite a bit in common. Will her new connection with Jack bring her the confidence she needs to stand up for the life she wants? Or will she settle...?
I loved Rowan as a character! She's sweet, down to earth, and a touch spicy when needed!
Thank you #NetGalley and Jessica Sherry for an advanced readers copy of Yes No Maybe in exchange for an honest review. It was so good, and it got me through a rough day. Thank you!

[elise | bookingthroughlife · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely stunning !!!!

when tarah dewitt recommends a book, you read it! & i am so glad i did because this book blew me away!!! the writing is so entertaining but also extremely heartfelt and emotional. the romance will make you swooooon. and the found family feels like a big hug! jessica sherry's writing jumps off the pages and enraptures you. the grief, the trauma, the pain that's represented in this book 😩😩 will make you cry!!! and make your heart ache!!! i love love love how both jack & rowan each had their own unique struggles but we see them work through it throughout the book in the most hopeful and beautiful way! plus the chemistry & tension is off the charts between these two!!

i finished this book like two weeks ago & am just now writing the review BUT this book has stuck with me and lived in my brain rent-free!!! i can't stop thinking about it!!! i love jack & rowan & the whole gang so so much!!!

jessica sherry is a new must read author for me & i can't wait to read her other books!!!

[Kat Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

if a man with a bunch of bookish tattoos gave me an advanced reader copy of his newest romance novel there would be no "yes no maybe," only yes

✧ 5 stars, my favorite phenomenon to come out of the publishing world is reading a romance with the cutesiest cartoon cover that violently shreds your heart through a cheese grater. I think I saw god in this book. it was a religious reading experience.

"Most genres are one-note when it comes to emotion. Horror books are scary. Thrillers are…thrilling. Mysteries are mysterious, and, well, you get the idea. A good romance is everything—scary, thrilling, mysterious, happy, sad, funny, dark."

thank you to the author for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review

[Patti Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I have so many words for this story. It pulled on my heart strings, made me laugh, made me cry, made me mad, and made me so happy. It was beautiful. I don't want to give away any hints because you truly need to read this story. You will do the same; laugh, cry, get angry, and be happy. Rowan and Jack are great. Both such strong characters, both adding strength to the story. All the side characters are wonderful as well, well maybe not a few. Being neighbors at first Rowan and Jack don't like each other. But as they grow so does the story.
You will not regret reading this, I couldn't put it down! So emotional and heartwarming!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing! This story was given to me as ARC and I could not put it down. I did not want the story to end I was absorbed in their world and now I long to live in a street like this and be surrounded by its people. I have given it 4 stars only because the language was abit to much for me, unnecessary amounts of swearing not required. Little bit of spice, realistic and not blown out of proportion to that could never happen territory. I want to read books and go to English class with Rowan what a cool concept, read what you love, amen to that.

[Kayla Budde · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a perfectly paced and delightful read-- I needed something lighthearted and fun, and this hit the nail right on the head! Rowan's journey of learning how to accept herself and allowing herself to believe others could like her, scars and all was inspiring and beautifully written. It made me laugh and want to cry, and I couldn't put it down (read it almost in one sitting!!) Jack was the perfect MMC (don't even get me started on the tattoos and being a cat person) and the small loving group of neighbors were just a sweet cherry on top to this read.

[1000_books_1000_lives · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the cutest! A love story with books- so here for it! But the characters- the realness- it was amazing

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this book quickly! I enjoyed how much of an antihero Jack was and how he and Rowan complimented each other. Seeing the growth of them both, especially with Rowan and her scars, was so satisfying and such a journey. I highlighted all over my Kindle and fell in love with these perfectly imperfect characters.

- dual POV
- English teacher who doesn’t believe in romance
- romance writer who has never been in love
- open door
- cats named after authors

**Many thanks to Netgalley and Jessica Sherry for the ARC exchange for an honest review!**

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes No Maybe was a quick and adorable read. Rowan’s character journey and learning to not settle was moving. Jack’s transformation to a warm-hearted male lead made me root for him quickly. I honestly can say that I would be genuinely interested in reading Jack’s books based off of the descriptions that were given. I enjoyed that romance was slowly built up and it wasn’t an immediate love at first sight becuase it allowed up to fall in love with the main characters as they fell in love with each other. An enjoyable read overall,

Thanks to Netgalley and Jessica Sherry for the ARC!

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A teacher with a troubled past. A best-selling author with wirter's block. Please, meet Rowan and Jack, your new next door neighboors.

A book the made me giggle like a little girl in an adventure park. Small, fun, slow-burn but everything fell into place and I loved every second of it, I couldn't even put the book down.

Rowan faced a tragic past that scarred her evey relationship, until she met Jack, after a not-so-failed proposal from her current boyfriend, Dean. Rowan believes that she and Dean are happy together being independent, at the same time, but after he put her on the spolight (something she clearly hates), she wasn't so sure, but still loved him, ignoring every reg flag, because it was safe. Everything changes for them after that mitic night.

Reading the whole book made me hate everything Dean did, every attittude he had towards her and their relationship, but in the end he reedeemed himself, but nothing surpasses Jack.

Jack the next door neighboor. Jack the grumpiest of them all. Jack the author. In every stuggle that Rowan faced, he was right there. Two different souls with so much pain and hurt taht could have only found their paths crossed because of a small house and a tree. Yes, a tree. But the development of their relationship from strangers to friends to lovers is the most beautiful thing I ever expirienced as a reader. And the moment she opened up to him about what happened to her ???? MASTERPIECE.

As for the other characters, I warmed up to Sara, eventually, but she was a real bitch in the beggining and my godness I wanted to punch her so bad... Mira, Rowan's sister, I really would have loved to get more scenes with her, but everything fell to perfection.

I'll think about this book (a lot more often) from now on.

My favourite quotes:
- "In this blue haze, I know I could easily love him too"
- "A man who cries - I thought that was a myth"
- "It's love when home is no longer a place but a person and that's where you always want to be"
- "Rowan, To teach is to love. And to love is a gift. Always give"

[Luanna Gomes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a love letter to this book.

I know they said don't judge a book by its cover but I saw the black cat on the cover in this one and immediately needed it, and well... the rest is history.

Think neighbors with small town and gilmore girls vibes, grumpy tortured writer living next door (he also has a cat), a female character who's a teacher (think Jessica Day but bookish high school class). Their cats are named after authors, she gets him out of his author's block....

There's grief, there's a journey to acceptance, there's mentions of past abusive relationship, there's the slowest of the slow burn but it is worth it, everything in this book is worth your time.

She was proposed to, but didn't exactly say yes, her "fiancé" is a wannabe actor leaving for the summer, she buys a house that reminds her of her favorite childhood book. The grumpy neighbor and her go from strangers to dislikes to friends to lovers...

Rowan has scars on her body and even though she is very sure of herself, she also brush off the fact that some people are just assholes, she already accepted this "truth" to her life and she makes the best of her every situation. She is strong, kind, lovely and jaded, she loves herself and protects herself like no one else could do it for her, she truly is the main character of this book.

Jack has playboy tendencies, but he treats his neighbors like family, takes care of everyone and is a best seller romance author with a bruised soul. Watching this man discovering love is thrilling and beautiful. Jack is a very special and interesting character

If you like Emily Henry, if you want a book that will warm up your soul and bring tears to your eyes, if you love slow burn romance and a story about unconditional love, different kinds of finding your family, queer rep and an overall heartwarming but also touching romance, this book is for you.

[Jessica Delacruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Sherry for the advanced reader copy. These are my honest opinions.

WOW! This book was absolutely wonderful. I am currently experiencing a book hangover because I cannot stop thinking about Rowan and Jack. This story is going to live with me for a long, long time. It was heartwarming, hilarious and deep all at the same time. There were some amazing quotes that I don't think I will ever forget. Jessica Sherry was able to write about traumatic and triggering events with care and tenderness that made me feel so seen and validated. This book made me both laugh out loud and shed some tears.

Jack is a moody writer type (romance author) who's experiencing some major writer's block. He has a cat named Harper Lee.
Rowan is a high school English teacher and avid reader (everything but romance). She has a cat named Edgar Allen Poe.
He's grumpy and she's sunshine.
The two end up living next door to one another and their relationship is described as "cordially volatile."

I could literally sit here and gush about this book for hours, but I don't want to give too much away. Read this if you enjoy:
Dual POV
Grumpy x Sunshine
Nosy neighbors and cute side characters (LOVED Rose & Vernon)
Found family
Literary puns
He calls her princess
Enemies to friends to lovers
Slow burn
Angst and tension

"A good romance is everything- scary, thrilling, mysterious, happy, sad, funny, dark. I wanted a genre with an emotional depth that could be anything I wanted it to be. Romance fits me best."

[Amanda Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first ever ARC read and I couldn’t ask for a better first! I adore this book from the grumpy x sunshine, next door neighbors, found family, small town tropes to the two person POVs and short chapters. The chapters were the perfect length making “one more chapter” turn into multiple more chapters read at a time. The book kept my interest all the way through and was the perfect burn speed.

The story follows Rowan Mackey and Jack Graham. Rowan is a high school English teacher and Jack is a famous romance novelist. Rowan isn’t one for being in the spotlight and is thus put into an awkward position after being proposed to in a very public way. After her awkward, up-in-the-air response, her boyfriend, Dean, leaves for the summer to follow his dreams of becoming an actor, leaving them in limbo. Rowan moves into her first house in a very close knit neighborhood of eclectic souls and next door to Jack who is the moody and broody romance writer. The personalities of the neighbors truly bring extra joy to this story and really adds to the already great storyline. This book is not only a beautiful romance novel but also brings depth as both Rowan and Jack face past traumas that have molded them into who they are.

Yes No Maybe will be published tomorrow, Tuesday, April 30th. Do not sleep on this book! It is definitely one of my favorite books that I’ve read this year and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to ARC read it!

[Melissa M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book, my first from the author, and it was stellar! I adored getting to know Rowan, her past struggles and trauma, the strength, love, and such giving ways that she embodies now, and the joy with which she teaches and supports those in need. Then we have the sexy romance writer playboy Jack, who has gone through his own painful past of loss and still leaning to cope. Bring in the colorful cast of the neighborhood, an angst teen, and some family both found and by blood, and this group brings together such love, support, joy, and hilarity that you can’t help but wish you lived amongst them too, endlessly hearing the refrain of “Vernon, no.” I loved this tale of finding yourself and knowing your worth—and most importantly fighting for what you deserve. Both Jack and Rowan tackle their own traumas and coping mechanism together and themselves, and it’s not an easy or straightforward journey, but one so worth it in the end! Filled with poignant moments, beautiful words, and a heck of a lot of clumsiness, mistakes, and mistaken deeds, this one will keep you wanting more and believing in love, whether that’s a new thing or a strengthening of your belief. And at the center of it all is not just romantic love, of which I couldn’t get enough, but the love of those who matter to you and those who need it most. The ending was so sweetly perfect, too!! So good!

[Shira Hirsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was wonderful! Great for fans of Emily Henry, and Anabel Monaghan. I actually liked both of our leads. It’s a story of healing, empowerment and above all community. Sherry writes with quick pacing and humor. I’d recommend this book to friends! Thanks to NetGalley and Jessica Sherry for this ARC! Definitely one to check out when it’s released.

[Readingbythepool · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished "Yes No Maybe" by Jessica Sherry and I’m absolutely smitten! 🌟 This enemies-to-lovers gem takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that’s as sweet as it is heart-wrenching.

Rowan Mackey’s journey from a public proposal gone wrong to finding unexpected love next door is captivating. Wounded by her past and disillusioned with romance, Rowan’s new neighbor, the charismatic Jack Graham, shakes up her world in ways she never anticipated. Jack, the brooding romance writer, and Rowan, the wary but hopeful heroine, spark off each other with electric tension and heartfelt moments.

Their interactions are pure magic—awkward, funny, and deeply moving. Sherry masterfully blends humor with poignant moments, making it impossible to put the book down. The chemistry between Rowan and Jack is undeniable, and watching them navigate their feelings and personal boundaries is both entertaining and touching.

If you’re into a slow-burn romance with all the feels, this is a must-read. I laughed, I cried (the good kind of crying), and I fell in love with every page. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Syd & Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review

I absolutely adored this book! I was rooting for Jack and Rowan the entire time and I loved reading about their story together as well as their stories as individuals.

This was an adorable story that had me hooked from the very start and I would definitely read from this author again!

[Mary Lomie George · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the second book I’ve read by Jessica Sherry and I am very much looking forward to reading more from her! She has quickly become one of my favorite authors! Yes, No, Maybe was a light hearted and fun read! It was inspiring and written so beautifully! Rowan was a great FMC and Jack?? Holy moly! He couldn’t get any hotter if he tried. He won me over immediately by being a cat person! I love cats and I LOVE men who love cats! Rowan and Jack’s characters complimented each other perfectly! Definitely recommend this!

I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is honest, unbiased and completely my own.

[Christine Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes, No, Maybe, was a book I stayed wayyy past my bedtime to finish, but it was so worth it! From page one I was hooked and invested in the two lives of Jack and Rowan. They are both neighbors and homeowners to houses that mean much more than their structural foundation. Rowan is an army brat turned High School English teacher who deeply loves her job, her students, and the good found in others and in books. She will read anything, but not the romance genre because it’s forced and absolutely fake. She transfers this theme of love on her own personal lovelife where we see her settle for okay = vanilla boy Dean because he’s simple and he doesn't go overboard for her. Just average, plain, and routine. Yup, sounds like a dreamboat there and absolutely no red flags whatsoever… 😬😬😬😬

As much as I wanted Rowan to come to grips with the truth bombs her mom and sister were always sharing about Dean, I can see why she just accepts him and “his space”. Dean’s proposal in front of the entire school for the play was just down right messy and I understand why Rowan backtracks her answer. She’s a character you want to be friend’s with and you just know she will always have your back. She is so much more than the scars that she carries both physically as being a burn victim and psychologically. She does everything in her power to stay under the radar of attention, from putting her hair down, wearing a scarf to minimizing her burn story to putting others' needs first.

The one person who sees right through Rowan’s facade is the next door, grumpy, famous romance writer, Jack Graham. Not gonna lie, Jack seemed just like a huge jerk and started off on the wrong foot for me and Rowan too. But despite bad first impressions Jack is kind, caring, as much of a book nerd as Rowan.

I really enjoyed this story so much! Reading and watching Rowan and Jack’s friendship blossom was heartwarming. There was legit trauma that Rowan and Jack endured as teens and as adults that has shaped who they are. They both help each other out and grow to be the best versions of themselves. Despite their chemistry, this wasn’t a typical romcom book. It definitely wasn’t love at first sight and for that I am so appreciative!!!

Yes, No, Maybe is quickly becoming my favorite book this month and the first book I’ve read from Jessica Sherry, but it will definitely not be the last! Finally a book worth 4.5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

**Many thanks to Netgalley and Jessica Sherry for the ARC exchange for an honest review!**

👫 Dual POV
🎭 Grumpy/ Sunshine
🏡 Found Family
🐈‍⬛❤️ Cat Lovers
📚 Book Lovers
💞 Opposites Attract
🌶️ out of 5

[Anna^_^ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Коли гортала відгуки, то натрапила на один, де говорилося, що книга з такою мультяшною обкладинкою насправді така болюча і серйозна. Повністю з ним погоджуюсь. Я очікувала сюжет з більшим нахилом до ромкому, і так воно спочатку й було, але насправді отримала багато скла. Взагалі не очікувала від історії чогось "вау", однак вона виявилась прекрасною.

Історія про Роуен - вчительку літератури, яка купує невеличкий дім, та її нового сусіда через паркан Джека - автора сучасних бестселерів.

Роуен просто прекрасна героїня, через певний інцидент, що трапився з нею в підлітковому віці, вона має шрами на обличчі та тілі, саме тому постійно ловить на собі чужі погляди, сповнені співчуття чи цікавості. Однак вона не закрита в собі людина, Роуен навчилася з цим справлятися і здебільшого байдуже ставиться до всіх роздивлянь, однак вони все одно її ранять. Героїня працює в школі і дійсно любить свою роботу та свій клас, у неї дуже класний підхід до викладання, тож не дивно, що діти люблять її. Знову повторюсь, що вона прекрасна персонажка.

Джек був у письменницькій кризі аж до того часу, коли Роуен стала жити по сусідству. Узагалі, в нього цікавий підхід до письменництва, бо він дуже любить переносити реальних людей та їхні історії на папір і завуальовувати це так, що ті себе не впізнають на сторінках. Джек не ідеальний персонаж, однак він все ж мені сподобався. А ще має багато татуювань, пов'язаних з книгами - здебільшого класикою.

Мені дуже сподобався період зародження дружби між персонажами. Вони просто говорили про своє життя і їхні діалоги в більшості випадків були дуже болючими, однак я рада, що вони змогли поділитися своїм найжахливішим відрізком минулого один з одним.

Обоє персонажів мають котиків, названих на честь відомих письменників, і я як cat person усміхалась завжди, коли вони з'являлись у книзі.

Окрім головних героїв, тут класні другорядні, зі своїми побічними та цікавими лініями. Завдяки їм книга відчувалась живою, бо вони багато де рухали сюжет.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

At its heart, this is a book about loving and, more importantly, allowing yourself to be loved.
 
Jack and Rowan might initially seem like opposites, but in truth, they have far more in common than they realize - both are shaped by their pasts, choosing to close themselves off to the possibility of love. Sometimes it takes meeting the right person to strip you of your insecurities and break down your walls.
 
Rowan’s seemingly delicate exterior belies her inner strength, something she doesn’t quite see in herself, but something that Jack recognizes from the moment he first lays eyes on her. A traumatic injury has left her feeling inherently unlovable, willing to settle for the first nice guy that pays her any attention, a fellow teacher named Dean, her (maybe) fiancé.
 
Jack is the other side of the coin – on the exterior he’s gruff and cocky, with a playboy reputation. As Rowan and Jack get to know one another, she begins to see the kind, caring man hiding underneath and he comes to realize that his tragic past has left him with a fear of true intimacy.
 
This may seem a little out of left field, but allow yourself to love flawed characters – neither Jack nor Rowan are perfect. In fact, there are aspects of both of their personalities that are downright unlikable at first. I often find myself annoyed at readers who complain about a character’s flaws but fail to acknowledge their growth. Jack and Rowan bring out the best in one another, which is sort of the whole point of love, right? Finding a person who brings out the best in you? They make each other better people. They grow and evolve, as people should. Even Dean has some redeemable qualities in the end.
 
As for the book’s plot and pacing, I found both to be very satisfying. The quirky neighbors are a fun addition, bringing some much-needed levity. Given the aforementioned past traumas and tragedies, be aware that there are some serious aspects to this story, but it never feels heavy or weighted down by those aspects. Trigger warning for the death of a sibling, cancer, fostering, child abuse, and assault.
 
A couple of things kept this from being a five-star read, in my opinion. For one, I found the whole fostering process to be overly simplified. It wouldn’t have taken much to explain that Rowan was already qualified to be a foster parent or to add a home visit, both things that would have been necessary for her to take in Sara. It’s a small nitpick, but valid just the same. And, while I enjoyed this book, I didn’t find myself consumed by it. (That’s the difference between four stars and five, in my opinion.) The author definitely has that potential, based on the quality of her writing, but this book didn’t quite resonate in that way for me. I very much look forward to reading more of her work.
 
Thank you, NetGalley, for the advanced reader copy of this book.