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Prime Time Romance
Is love on the small screen better than the real thing?
A young divorcée finds herself in the ideal world of her favorite 2000s teen soap in this “gleefully nostalgic and completely fresh”* romance from the author of This Spells Love.
Newly divorced on the eve of her thirtieth birthday, Brynn is sick of heartbreak. She thought she had found her happy ending, but now she’s living with a roommate, Josh, to afford her mortgage, and she’s trying to adjust to her new single life. At least she’s got Carson’s Cove to binge, her beloved 2000s teenage soap. The show ended unexpectantly on a cliffhanger after five seasons, and the two main characters, Sloan and Spencer, never got to declare their love for each other. The show is still perfect in Brynn’s eyes; despite all the drama that goes down, things always have a way of working out in Carson’s Cove . . . unlike her own life.
So when a birthday cake surprisingly shows up on her and Josh’s doorstep, Brynn makes a wish for the one thing she’s always wanted (but has failed to achieve herself): a happily-ever-after.
The next morning, she doesn’t wake up in her apartment. She’s in Carson’s Cove . . . and Josh is there too. Everyone seems to know them, except they’re not Brynn and Josh; they’re Sloan, the sweetheart of Carson’s Cove, and Fletch, the town’s bad boy. And to get home, they have to make Brynn’s wish come true by ensuring Sloan and Spencer, the hometown heartthrob, end up together at last. But as they spend more time together, Brynn and Josh realize that Carson’s Cove might not be as perfect as seen on television . . . especially when they start developing feelings for each other in a plot twist no one has expected. Will they stick to the script, or will real love change the story forever?
A young divorcée finds herself in the ideal world of her favorite 2000s teen soap in this “gleefully nostalgic and completely fresh”* romance from the author of This Spells Love.
Newly divorced on the eve of her thirtieth birthday, Brynn is sick of heartbreak. She thought she had found her happy ending, but now she’s living with a roommate, Josh, to afford her mortgage, and she’s trying to adjust to her new single life. At least she’s got Carson’s Cove to binge, her beloved 2000s teenage soap. The show ended unexpectantly on a cliffhanger after five seasons, and the two main characters, Sloan and Spencer, never got to declare their love for each other. The show is still perfect in Brynn’s eyes; despite all the drama that goes down, things always have a way of working out in Carson’s Cove . . . unlike her own life.
So when a birthday cake surprisingly shows up on her and Josh’s doorstep, Brynn makes a wish for the one thing she’s always wanted (but has failed to achieve herself): a happily-ever-after.
The next morning, she doesn’t wake up in her apartment. She’s in Carson’s Cove . . . and Josh is there too. Everyone seems to know them, except they’re not Brynn and Josh; they’re Sloan, the sweetheart of Carson’s Cove, and Fletch, the town’s bad boy. And to get home, they have to make Brynn’s wish come true by ensuring Sloan and Spencer, the hometown heartthrob, end up together at last. But as they spend more time together, Brynn and Josh realize that Carson’s Cove might not be as perfect as seen on television . . . especially when they start developing feelings for each other in a plot twist no one has expected. Will they stick to the script, or will real love change the story forever?
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,143 reviews
May 19, 2024
1.75!
"You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep rewatching the old one"
To be very honest, I have no idea what happened. This book had such a good premise and I was actually invested during the start but I was so busy with exams that the hold that this book had on me slowly drifted away as I read this more and the less inclined I felt to finish it and I mean I was reading another book at that time and that did not fail to hold my attention, so it was this books problem. I even skimmed the last half I was the bored and that makes me sad because my hopes were high when I got an arc of this book :(
Brynn and Josh were OK main characters, I didn't find any attachment towards them, it was like they were just there and I was reading about them...didn't feel anything and the whole plot surrounding them had so much potential but it fell victim to a messy execution which did not help with the case of me getting bored.
Finally, the romance. I didn't see it! I mean I knew who it was between but the build up and everything was so mid that I actually wasn't interested in it at all and the smutty scenes felt so wrong 😭😭 because this had a more teenage vibe to it and adding two very graphic sex scenes in this book felt out of the blue and unexpected ( the scenes weren't bad at all) they just felt out of place and felt like they were not needed.
So when I read the last 10% I wondered why am I even reading this book?? I don't like the characters, the romance or the plot. I just enjoyed a few of their interactions and the start.
I personally would not recommend it because it felt vey boring and it failed to hold my attention!!
____
Please don't judge me by looking at my CR shelf as I am currently stress reading!
Thank you to Random House Publishing for an E-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
"You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep rewatching the old one"
To be very honest, I have no idea what happened. This book had such a good premise and I was actually invested during the start but I was so busy with exams that the hold that this book had on me slowly drifted away as I read this more and the less inclined I felt to finish it and I mean I was reading another book at that time and that did not fail to hold my attention, so it was this books problem. I even skimmed the last half I was the bored and that makes me sad because my hopes were high when I got an arc of this book :(
Brynn and Josh were OK main characters, I didn't find any attachment towards them, it was like they were just there and I was reading about them...didn't feel anything and the whole plot surrounding them had so much potential but it fell victim to a messy execution which did not help with the case of me getting bored.
Finally, the romance. I didn't see it! I mean I knew who it was between but the build up and everything was so mid that I actually wasn't interested in it at all and the smutty scenes felt so wrong 😭😭 because this had a more teenage vibe to it and adding two very graphic sex scenes in this book felt out of the blue and unexpected ( the scenes weren't bad at all) they just felt out of place and felt like they were not needed.
So when I read the last 10% I wondered why am I even reading this book?? I don't like the characters, the romance or the plot. I just enjoyed a few of their interactions and the start.
I personally would not recommend it because it felt vey boring and it failed to hold my attention!!
____
Please don't judge me by looking at my CR shelf as I am currently stress reading!
Thank you to Random House Publishing for an E-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 27, 2024
3 stars ᡣ𐭩ྀིྀི
⟶ idk how to feel tbh
🌷”You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep rewatching the old one” 🌷
ngl this book was very 50/50 for me. the beginning was SOOO good and interesting, but the rest was lowkey a drag 🙁 this could’ve definitely been shorter, even though it’s not really that long to begin with 😭
💌 plot - brynn’s life is a mess. her “friends” forgot her birthday and she’s recently divorced. she thinks her life is a disaster and just wants a break for once. she seeks comfort in her favourite teen drama, carson’s cove, where everything is perfect. so when she turns thirty and her roommate josh, asks her to make a wish for her birthday, she blows the candles and wishes:
🌷 “I want to finally get the perfect happily ever after” 🌷
the next morning, she wakes up. but she’s not in her own bed. she’s in sloan’s bed - the main character from carson’s cove 😟 plot twisttt. and she has to play that character and finish the season, where she realises that perhaps their life is not so perfect after all (which is so sad bc if I went to my comfort fictional world and it turned out to be pathetic and miserable, i’d probably cry 😪)
🎀 romance - um??!? the thing is the romance had so much potential there just wasn’t enough of it 😭😭 I wanted sparks, tension, and chemistry but I just got friends who think the other is kinda hot!??! so sad 🙁 but the plot made up for it bc it was interesting so it made me hate this less since usually for me no romance = 2 star read max.
🌷 ”He bends down and kisses me softly on the lips. All of the noise, all of the worrying thoughts in my head stop—and all that’s left is him.” 🌷
🧸 conclusion - sorry this is a short review, but i’m ending it here bc I don’t really have much to say HAHAH. this was a fun, unique concept so if you’re looking for something quick and lighthearted (not revolutionary), maybe check this out..? don’t take my word for it though this is pretty mid ngl 💗
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!!
⟶ idk how to feel tbh
🌷”You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep rewatching the old one” 🌷
ngl this book was very 50/50 for me. the beginning was SOOO good and interesting, but the rest was lowkey a drag 🙁 this could’ve definitely been shorter, even though it’s not really that long to begin with 😭
💌 plot - brynn’s life is a mess. her “friends” forgot her birthday and she’s recently divorced. she thinks her life is a disaster and just wants a break for once. she seeks comfort in her favourite teen drama, carson’s cove, where everything is perfect. so when she turns thirty and her roommate josh, asks her to make a wish for her birthday, she blows the candles and wishes:
🌷 “I want to finally get the perfect happily ever after” 🌷
the next morning, she wakes up. but she’s not in her own bed. she’s in sloan’s bed - the main character from carson’s cove 😟 plot twisttt. and she has to play that character and finish the season, where she realises that perhaps their life is not so perfect after all (which is so sad bc if I went to my comfort fictional world and it turned out to be pathetic and miserable, i’d probably cry 😪)
🎀 romance - um??!? the thing is the romance had so much potential there just wasn’t enough of it 😭😭 I wanted sparks, tension, and chemistry but I just got friends who think the other is kinda hot!??! so sad 🙁 but the plot made up for it bc it was interesting so it made me hate this less since usually for me no romance = 2 star read max.
🌷 ”He bends down and kisses me softly on the lips. All of the noise, all of the worrying thoughts in my head stop—and all that’s left is him.” 🌷
🧸 conclusion - sorry this is a short review, but i’m ending it here bc I don’t really have much to say HAHAH. this was a fun, unique concept so if you’re looking for something quick and lighthearted (not revolutionary), maybe check this out..? don’t take my word for it though this is pretty mid ngl 💗
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!!
October 15, 2025
Who has never dreamt of waking up in their favourite tv show, being the main character, kissing your teenager fictional crush, give everyone their well-deserved ending… until you're actually trapped there, being a stereotypical 2000s girl-next-door sucks and the one you thought was the love of your life has the sex appeal of a snail.
Well, KR navigates the thin line between dream of a lifetime and psychological horror so well, that I don't think even Joshua Jackson could make me do it.
The Dawson’s Creeks vibes are immaculate: from the little Maine town to the hundreds of seasonal festivals, it's all arguably there.
Fun fact: I'm too young to have grown up with the TV show but for the longest time I thought Dawson was THE guy and then, a couple of years ago, I finally decided to watch and I couldn't pass season two because I couldn't stand his guts. I mean, why does everyone drool on that piece of wood when Pacey is right there?!
Also, the whole thing is a nightmare most of the time, it’s difficult to watch it without cringing, but that's the whole point of this story!
The comparison with her debut novel, This Spells Love , is a must-do, especially since the main aspect - ending up in another dimension because of a magical wish blown after too much wine - is basically the same.
Both of the main characters being there together is an improvement I didn't know I needed, but the romance was kinda off from time to time - I suppose because it still has to have that 2000s television vibes, but also allowing a couple of chapters of hot steams coming out of the pages.
↠ 3.5 stars
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Random House, Dial Press Trade Paperback and NetGalley, who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
Well, KR navigates the thin line between dream of a lifetime and psychological horror so well, that I don't think even Joshua Jackson could make me do it.
The Dawson’s Creeks vibes are immaculate: from the little Maine town to the hundreds of seasonal festivals, it's all arguably there.
Fun fact: I'm too young to have grown up with the TV show but for the longest time I thought Dawson was THE guy and then, a couple of years ago, I finally decided to watch and I couldn't pass season two because I couldn't stand his guts. I mean, why does everyone drool on that piece of wood when Pacey is right there?!
Also, the whole thing is a nightmare most of the time, it’s difficult to watch it without cringing, but that's the whole point of this story!
The comparison with her debut novel, This Spells Love , is a must-do, especially since the main aspect - ending up in another dimension because of a magical wish blown after too much wine - is basically the same.
Both of the main characters being there together is an improvement I didn't know I needed, but the romance was kinda off from time to time - I suppose because it still has to have that 2000s television vibes, but also allowing a couple of chapters of hot steams coming out of the pages.
↠ 3.5 stars
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Random House, Dial Press Trade Paperback and NetGalley, who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
September 9, 2024
Isn’t It Romantic meets Pleasantville in this really sweet roommate romance, with magical realism and a comfort TV show that may not be as it seems. I cannot stress enough that I fudging (if you know you know) loved this, the concept is refreshing but the story itself lacked depth and dragged on for me.
[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
Brynn Smothers, from Torronto, is just turning 30. She has been divorced for 4 years, goes on another failed date, and her friend group has forgotten her birthday and is only using her to go clubbing. There she finds her roommate, Joshua “Josh” Bishop, working as a bartender. He has always dreamed of running his late father’s bar but it is up for auction. He wonders about buying it.
After losing her purse and phone at the club, Josh offers to take Brynn home. He then decides to watch her comfort tv show Carson’s Cove, which got cancelled after season five’s cliffhanger. The main characters Sloan Edwards (town’s sweetheart) and Spencer Woods (dreamboat) were high school sweethearts and should have got together but a problem at the Ms Lobsterfest pageant means Sloan does not profess her love and Spencer leaves for LA.
A knock at the door reveals a mysterious Uber Eats deliveryman who gives Brynn a small “Bake a Wish” cake for her birthday. She makes a wish for a better life: one which will have her happily ever after. The next morning, she and Josh end up in Carson’s Cove. The man who gave her the cake, Sheldon, has brought them here to complete Sloan and Spencer’s story. Brynn will be Sloan, Josh will be Fletcher Scott (town’s badboy). Sloan will win the pageant this time, and they can go home. The only problem is, the day of the pageant is the same day as the auction Josh wants to go to!
Being surrounded by old familiar faces, Brynn is all in and enjoys seeing friends and enemies in real life. But not everything is as it seems. Perhaps Sloan was not the practically perfect sweetheart all along, perhaps Brynn has got the characters all wrong. Perhaps Josh is starting to fall for her, and is forced to watch her fall in love with someone else. And perhaps Sheldon strives for perfection and is willing to do everything it takes for his show to go on – even putting others at risk.
This is told from the first-person present-tense POV of Brynn and Josh.
OVERALL OPINIONS
Having never read Kate Robb’s books before, but hearing nothing but high anticipation and praise for this one, I was delighted to jump in. This captured incredibly well the essence of TV shows in the early 2000s and how important comfort films and shows are. When times are hard, escapism is ideal, and for a lot of people that is into books or shows:
I myself know that if I did not have Jane Austen adaptations and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, I would not be where I am today. And I would be devastated if being there for real was a disappointment, something which is again explored well here.
Robb provides an Easter Egg Hunt section at the back of the book which explains a lot of the inspiration behind her story, from its plot, to character and place names. Its main plot is akin to cult classic Pleasantville (1998) where a TV repairman gives a remote to two children and gets transported into their favourite black-and-white 1950s sitcom about an idyllic family. Carson’s Cove itself is inspired by Dawson’s Creek. The Bronze, the pub in Carson’s Cove, is named after the nightclub in Buffy. Poppy’s surname Bensen is akin to Ashley Benson, who played Hanna in Pretty Little Liars. There are plenty of other examples but these struck me the most.
I really liked the concept and I knew I would when I read the blurb. In a lot of ways it is a great read: it was a good concept, there was a bit of humour, some serious moments, some self-discovery, there were some predictable things that happened (which matched the vibe of things being a comfort because they are predictable and safe), the romance itself was sweet too. My favourite funny moment is probably when they realise they cannot physically swear when they’re in Carson’s Cove.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this as much as I’d have liked. Some of the characters felt shallow because there was not much going on and some questions at the end never got answered. Right now, this is a 3.5 for me. Had characters been fleshed out that would have been great. It feels more like a young adult book so I would have probably enjoyed this more if I was younger.
The ending where she is given another cake and is to make a wish, is so perfect!
<< Positives >>
🠚The cover! Very cute, very fitting.
🠚Love the book’s dedication: To Joshua Jackson and whoever knit him that damn sweater.
🠚The recipe at the end of the book is charming: “Bake a Wish – Possibly Magical Birthday Cake”
🠚Brynn being divorced and her growth as a person: she is worried about how she is perceived and how she perceives herself, until she realises there is nothing wrong with her.
🠚I like how this is meant to be a perfect show and Spencer is the perfect man but there are so many clues that he is not the right man at all: from detesting the sight of blood, to not offering his hoodie when she is cold, to tucking a strand of hair behind the ear frequently, and the romantic picnic where there was awful food! This was well done!
🠚The complexity of Sheldon was good. One minute he seems like a cool fan the next he is in charge of everything and there is even a darker dangerous side to him. His story about being an extra who never was able to further his career because of the show was interesting and it was good he had a motive. I am glad that Brynn doesn’t accept his apology straight away – as she should!
🠚A lot of the plot was predictable but this did not detract from the story.
🠚I like the plot twist that Luce is a lovely person and the friend Poppy is actually the backstabber.
🠚The romance was great! I like that Josh is not the love interest, I was more expecting the fake dating trope to come into play but it turns out he is loving Brynn from afar. The spice was average, and quite quick.
<< Negatives >>
🠚I felt the story started well but because it is set in the one place, it limited what was possible and its only plotline of the pageant dragged things out.
🠚Most of the characters did not have enough depth, which I could tell because I did not care much for them. Luce was the only real exception.
🠚What happens to all the characters at Carson’s Cove once Brynn and Josh return home? Do they remember things? Are they sent back home too?
🠚I assume Brynn left the friend group but I would have liked to have seen that written.
🠚It would have been nice if Brynn’s mother had been included, there was not much interaction with her.
🠚When Brynn says “When you go back. Don’t forget me, okay?” and he says nothing, I felt like he should have said something – for romantic quotes sake at least haha. I assume it is to add some uncertainty.
🠚When Josh goes back to the real world, the rest of the story is from Brynn’s POV, and it would have been good to include one POV, either of when he got back or when she gets back and heads out to find him.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Brynn꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ I unfortunately understand that feeling of being forgotten about. I also relate to the description of “I respond with a double thumbs- up, which I immediately regret, knowing it did not come off as carefree or cute as I intended.”
-ˋˏ ꒰ Josh꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ I like the side-plot with Josh where he has been scared to re-open his father’s pub but through working at The Bronze and doing a good job, he has the courage to try again.
🠚I love how caring he is! How he looks out for her and expects nothing in return.
FAV QUOTES
• it’s next to impossible to meet a perfect man while bundled up like a burrito in front of my television screen, so unless Uber Eats starts delivering dream dates, I’m once again swimming in this very shallow dating pool.
• The last thing I needed was Temptation Island in my kitchen making breakfast for dinner. I almost terminated our roommate agreement right there.
• finding love wasn’t my problem the first time. I want to keep it. I want my life to play out exactly as it’s supposed to for once. No plot twists. No Bumble jerks with cinnamon roll profiles. Just friends that understand me and will forever have my back. I want to finally get the perfect happily ever after.
• Could we have sleepwalked here?” | Her brow crinkles as she contemplates this. “Both of us?” | “Good point. Maybe we were kidnapped?” | She throws up her arms. “I thought that too, but who the hell would want to kidnap us? I need a roommate to pay off my mortgage. You work in a bar. I gotta think there are more profitable kidnappees out there.”
• What the H-E-double-hockey-sticks have we gotten ourselves into?
• He smells of ocean breezes. Of sunshine and hope.
• She continues to talk, but her words blend into an indecipherable womp womp womp as I unpack what I think she is suggesting.
• Now, every time I eat a strawberry, I subconsciously think about her, and now I wonder what else she’ll ruin for me once I taste her.
• There is a mold to this place. Young. Attractive. Flawed only in a way that still makes you likable. If you don’t fit into it, you’re assigned another role. Outsider. Trouble. Mean girl.
• “Spencer is perfect.” The words hit hard. Her gaze drops to her hands. “But I don’t know if I want perfect anymore.”
• My brain is trying to list the reasons why I need to keep pursuing Spencer for Sloan, but my eyes keep wandering back to Josh. Josh and his abs. Josh and his kindness. Josh and the ability he has to make me feel safe. Josh and his low-slung sweatpants that expose his stupidly sexy hip dips.
• “Don’t worry about me,” I tell him. “I’m supposed to be taking care of you.” | He tightens his arms again. “We take care of each other.”
• I tilt my head up, kissing Josh’s jawbone softly, savoring the way his stubble scratches my lips. I try to memorize how good it feels to lie here in his arms. How he smells. How safe I feel. How happy.
• “Sloan Edwards has run a sundress empire for the last fifteen years. She doesn’t need a crown to tell her she’s smart, driven, talented, or worthy of anything.”
• “I’m tight with the bartender. We crossed a space- time continuum together. It’s bonded us in weird and wonderful ways.”
• All of the things I wanted to say are forgotten as I lock eyes with a man I’d cross a hundred dimensions to find.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Kate Robb, Penguin, and NetGalley for the opportunity. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
I would also like to thank the Penguin General Influencer program for providing me with a paperback copy.
“You can’t start the next episode of your life if you keep rewatching the old one.”
[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
Brynn Smothers, from Torronto, is just turning 30. She has been divorced for 4 years, goes on another failed date, and her friend group has forgotten her birthday and is only using her to go clubbing. There she finds her roommate, Joshua “Josh” Bishop, working as a bartender. He has always dreamed of running his late father’s bar but it is up for auction. He wonders about buying it.
After losing her purse and phone at the club, Josh offers to take Brynn home. He then decides to watch her comfort tv show Carson’s Cove, which got cancelled after season five’s cliffhanger. The main characters Sloan Edwards (town’s sweetheart) and Spencer Woods (dreamboat) were high school sweethearts and should have got together but a problem at the Ms Lobsterfest pageant means Sloan does not profess her love and Spencer leaves for LA.
A knock at the door reveals a mysterious Uber Eats deliveryman who gives Brynn a small “Bake a Wish” cake for her birthday. She makes a wish for a better life: one which will have her happily ever after. The next morning, she and Josh end up in Carson’s Cove. The man who gave her the cake, Sheldon, has brought them here to complete Sloan and Spencer’s story. Brynn will be Sloan, Josh will be Fletcher Scott (town’s badboy). Sloan will win the pageant this time, and they can go home. The only problem is, the day of the pageant is the same day as the auction Josh wants to go to!
Being surrounded by old familiar faces, Brynn is all in and enjoys seeing friends and enemies in real life. But not everything is as it seems. Perhaps Sloan was not the practically perfect sweetheart all along, perhaps Brynn has got the characters all wrong. Perhaps Josh is starting to fall for her, and is forced to watch her fall in love with someone else. And perhaps Sheldon strives for perfection and is willing to do everything it takes for his show to go on – even putting others at risk.
This is told from the first-person present-tense POV of Brynn and Josh.
OVERALL OPINIONS
Having never read Kate Robb’s books before, but hearing nothing but high anticipation and praise for this one, I was delighted to jump in. This captured incredibly well the essence of TV shows in the early 2000s and how important comfort films and shows are. When times are hard, escapism is ideal, and for a lot of people that is into books or shows:
Carson’s Cove’s predictable patterns were a balm. A steady presence as life as I knew it shattered around me.
I myself know that if I did not have Jane Austen adaptations and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, I would not be where I am today. And I would be devastated if being there for real was a disappointment, something which is again explored well here.
Robb provides an Easter Egg Hunt section at the back of the book which explains a lot of the inspiration behind her story, from its plot, to character and place names. Its main plot is akin to cult classic Pleasantville (1998) where a TV repairman gives a remote to two children and gets transported into their favourite black-and-white 1950s sitcom about an idyllic family. Carson’s Cove itself is inspired by Dawson’s Creek. The Bronze, the pub in Carson’s Cove, is named after the nightclub in Buffy. Poppy’s surname Bensen is akin to Ashley Benson, who played Hanna in Pretty Little Liars. There are plenty of other examples but these struck me the most.
I really liked the concept and I knew I would when I read the blurb. In a lot of ways it is a great read: it was a good concept, there was a bit of humour, some serious moments, some self-discovery, there were some predictable things that happened (which matched the vibe of things being a comfort because they are predictable and safe), the romance itself was sweet too. My favourite funny moment is probably when they realise they cannot physically swear when they’re in Carson’s Cove.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this as much as I’d have liked. Some of the characters felt shallow because there was not much going on and some questions at the end never got answered. Right now, this is a 3.5 for me. Had characters been fleshed out that would have been great. It feels more like a young adult book so I would have probably enjoyed this more if I was younger.
The ending where she is given another cake and is to make a wish, is so perfect!
<< Positives >>
🠚The cover! Very cute, very fitting.
🠚Love the book’s dedication: To Joshua Jackson and whoever knit him that damn sweater.
🠚The recipe at the end of the book is charming: “Bake a Wish – Possibly Magical Birthday Cake”
🠚Brynn being divorced and her growth as a person: she is worried about how she is perceived and how she perceives herself, until she realises there is nothing wrong with her.
🠚I like how this is meant to be a perfect show and Spencer is the perfect man but there are so many clues that he is not the right man at all: from detesting the sight of blood, to not offering his hoodie when she is cold, to tucking a strand of hair behind the ear frequently, and the romantic picnic where there was awful food! This was well done!
🠚The complexity of Sheldon was good. One minute he seems like a cool fan the next he is in charge of everything and there is even a darker dangerous side to him. His story about being an extra who never was able to further his career because of the show was interesting and it was good he had a motive. I am glad that Brynn doesn’t accept his apology straight away – as she should!
🠚A lot of the plot was predictable but this did not detract from the story.
🠚I like the plot twist that Luce is a lovely person and the friend Poppy is actually the backstabber.
🠚The romance was great! I like that Josh is not the love interest, I was more expecting the fake dating trope to come into play but it turns out he is loving Brynn from afar. The spice was average, and quite quick.
<< Negatives >>
🠚I felt the story started well but because it is set in the one place, it limited what was possible and its only plotline of the pageant dragged things out.
🠚Most of the characters did not have enough depth, which I could tell because I did not care much for them. Luce was the only real exception.
🠚What happens to all the characters at Carson’s Cove once Brynn and Josh return home? Do they remember things? Are they sent back home too?
🠚I assume Brynn left the friend group but I would have liked to have seen that written.
🠚It would have been nice if Brynn’s mother had been included, there was not much interaction with her.
🠚When Brynn says “When you go back. Don’t forget me, okay?” and he says nothing, I felt like he should have said something – for romantic quotes sake at least haha. I assume it is to add some uncertainty.
🠚When Josh goes back to the real world, the rest of the story is from Brynn’s POV, and it would have been good to include one POV, either of when he got back or when she gets back and heads out to find him.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Brynn꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ I unfortunately understand that feeling of being forgotten about. I also relate to the description of “I respond with a double thumbs- up, which I immediately regret, knowing it did not come off as carefree or cute as I intended.”
“I am okay to wake up every morning and know that there aren’t guarantees in life, but that there is adventure. That there are new beginnings. That I need to love hard for whatever time I’m given because life can throw curveballs at any moment, and sometimes those curveballs are wild.”
-ˋˏ ꒰ Josh꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ I like the side-plot with Josh where he has been scared to re-open his father’s pub but through working at The Bronze and doing a good job, he has the courage to try again.
🠚I love how caring he is! How he looks out for her and expects nothing in return.
“I don’t have a whole lot I can promise you at this moment. I can’t even promise you I can get us home, but I can say that you’re it for me. And I want to be it for you.”
FAV QUOTES
• it’s next to impossible to meet a perfect man while bundled up like a burrito in front of my television screen, so unless Uber Eats starts delivering dream dates, I’m once again swimming in this very shallow dating pool.
• The last thing I needed was Temptation Island in my kitchen making breakfast for dinner. I almost terminated our roommate agreement right there.
• finding love wasn’t my problem the first time. I want to keep it. I want my life to play out exactly as it’s supposed to for once. No plot twists. No Bumble jerks with cinnamon roll profiles. Just friends that understand me and will forever have my back. I want to finally get the perfect happily ever after.
• Could we have sleepwalked here?” | Her brow crinkles as she contemplates this. “Both of us?” | “Good point. Maybe we were kidnapped?” | She throws up her arms. “I thought that too, but who the hell would want to kidnap us? I need a roommate to pay off my mortgage. You work in a bar. I gotta think there are more profitable kidnappees out there.”
• What the H-E-double-hockey-sticks have we gotten ourselves into?
• He smells of ocean breezes. Of sunshine and hope.
• She continues to talk, but her words blend into an indecipherable womp womp womp as I unpack what I think she is suggesting.
• Now, every time I eat a strawberry, I subconsciously think about her, and now I wonder what else she’ll ruin for me once I taste her.
• There is a mold to this place. Young. Attractive. Flawed only in a way that still makes you likable. If you don’t fit into it, you’re assigned another role. Outsider. Trouble. Mean girl.
• “Spencer is perfect.” The words hit hard. Her gaze drops to her hands. “But I don’t know if I want perfect anymore.”
• My brain is trying to list the reasons why I need to keep pursuing Spencer for Sloan, but my eyes keep wandering back to Josh. Josh and his abs. Josh and his kindness. Josh and the ability he has to make me feel safe. Josh and his low-slung sweatpants that expose his stupidly sexy hip dips.
• “Don’t worry about me,” I tell him. “I’m supposed to be taking care of you.” | He tightens his arms again. “We take care of each other.”
• I tilt my head up, kissing Josh’s jawbone softly, savoring the way his stubble scratches my lips. I try to memorize how good it feels to lie here in his arms. How he smells. How safe I feel. How happy.
• “Sloan Edwards has run a sundress empire for the last fifteen years. She doesn’t need a crown to tell her she’s smart, driven, talented, or worthy of anything.”
• “I’m tight with the bartender. We crossed a space- time continuum together. It’s bonded us in weird and wonderful ways.”
• All of the things I wanted to say are forgotten as I lock eyes with a man I’d cross a hundred dimensions to find.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Kate Robb, Penguin, and NetGalley for the opportunity. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
I would also like to thank the Penguin General Influencer program for providing me with a paperback copy.
June 2, 2025
PHENOMENAL!!! Thank you NetGalley, Kate Robb, and Random House Publishing for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
OH MY DREAMY STARS!!! I absolutely loved this book so much!!! Kate Robb ALWAYS delivers for me and this is no exception!! This Spells Love was one of my favorite reads for 2023 so when I learned that the author had another book coming out I was beyond ecstatic!! Dare I say, I loved this one even more!! The author's books keep getting better and better, and now I have a new favorite for 2024 to add to my list. Prime Time Romance is a delightful, hilarious, and magical romantic comedy that tugs at your heartstrings while transporting you into your favorite television show. Brimming with humor, nostalgia, drama, banter, this story offers palpable chemistry, tender moments, and real relatable characters. Set in a charming small town, it authentically explores a journey from roommates to friends to lovers, featuring a heartfelt second chance at love. I found myself rooting for Brynn and Josh, captivated by their personal growth and the valuable life lessons woven throughout the story. 💗 💗💗💗💗
Is love on the small screen better than the real thing? Brynn's happy ending has gone up in flames. Newly divorced and sharing a mortgage with her roommate Josh, she's struggling to move on. At least she has Carson's Cove, her beloved '90s teenage soap, to binge-watch. When a birthday cake mysteriously appears on their doorstep, Brynn wishes for her own happily-ever-after. The next morning, she wakes up not in her apartment but in Carson's Cove... with Josh by her side. Except they're not Brynn and Josh anymore; they're the show's sweetheart and bad boy. Will they stick to the script, or will real love rewrite the story?
In conclusion, I was completely captivated from start to finish!! If you’re looking for a feel good rom-com with a Dawson’s Creek or Gilmore Girls vibe then this is the book for you! I wholeheartedly recommend and it deserves all the stars 💫💫💫💫💫!!!!!
OH MY DREAMY STARS!!! I absolutely loved this book so much!!! Kate Robb ALWAYS delivers for me and this is no exception!! This Spells Love was one of my favorite reads for 2023 so when I learned that the author had another book coming out I was beyond ecstatic!! Dare I say, I loved this one even more!! The author's books keep getting better and better, and now I have a new favorite for 2024 to add to my list. Prime Time Romance is a delightful, hilarious, and magical romantic comedy that tugs at your heartstrings while transporting you into your favorite television show. Brimming with humor, nostalgia, drama, banter, this story offers palpable chemistry, tender moments, and real relatable characters. Set in a charming small town, it authentically explores a journey from roommates to friends to lovers, featuring a heartfelt second chance at love. I found myself rooting for Brynn and Josh, captivated by their personal growth and the valuable life lessons woven throughout the story. 💗 💗💗💗💗
Is love on the small screen better than the real thing? Brynn's happy ending has gone up in flames. Newly divorced and sharing a mortgage with her roommate Josh, she's struggling to move on. At least she has Carson's Cove, her beloved '90s teenage soap, to binge-watch. When a birthday cake mysteriously appears on their doorstep, Brynn wishes for her own happily-ever-after. The next morning, she wakes up not in her apartment but in Carson's Cove... with Josh by her side. Except they're not Brynn and Josh anymore; they're the show's sweetheart and bad boy. Will they stick to the script, or will real love rewrite the story?
In conclusion, I was completely captivated from start to finish!! If you’re looking for a feel good rom-com with a Dawson’s Creek or Gilmore Girls vibe then this is the book for you! I wholeheartedly recommend and it deserves all the stars 💫💫💫💫💫!!!!!
September 3, 2024
Prime Time Romance is a charming and unique rom-com following Brynn and her roommate Josh who are transported into a world based on her favorite teenage drama show, Carson's Cove. Unable to leave until the two give the main characters the happily ever after they deserve, Brynn and Josh are forced to stick to their roles. However, as Brynn gets close to her love match, she finds that all she wants is to stick by Josh's side instead.
I wanted to love this as much as I loved Kate Robb's first book, but I just couldn't feel the romance! I think the main issue I had with this rom-com was the pacing, everything in the plot and story flowed well except for the romance between Brynn and Josh. To me, their relationship fell second to the magical realism plot and Brynn spent most of her time trying to play out her favorite show. While I found the small town and 2000s references to be very whimsical and entertaining, as a romance book, I don't think Josh and Brynn had enough standing to fall in love the way they did. I swear Brynn spent way more time with side characters than she did with Josh, and while they had some swoony and deep moments, I couldn't feel their connection at all. Even though this wasn't for me, I think Kate Robb's stellar writing and storyline have the potential to work for so many other people and I will be on the lookout for her next book!
~Many thanks to Netgalley and Dial Press for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
I wanted to love this as much as I loved Kate Robb's first book, but I just couldn't feel the romance! I think the main issue I had with this rom-com was the pacing, everything in the plot and story flowed well except for the romance between Brynn and Josh. To me, their relationship fell second to the magical realism plot and Brynn spent most of her time trying to play out her favorite show. While I found the small town and 2000s references to be very whimsical and entertaining, as a romance book, I don't think Josh and Brynn had enough standing to fall in love the way they did. I swear Brynn spent way more time with side characters than she did with Josh, and while they had some swoony and deep moments, I couldn't feel their connection at all. Even though this wasn't for me, I think Kate Robb's stellar writing and storyline have the potential to work for so many other people and I will be on the lookout for her next book!
~Many thanks to Netgalley and Dial Press for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Want to read
November 21, 2024A new divorcee finds herself in the ideal world of her favorite 2000s teen soap and a second-chance romance?
I really enjoyed this author's debut novel and this one will have all that 2000's vibes! Can it get more better?
I really enjoyed this author's debut novel and this one will have all that 2000's vibes! Can it get more better?
March 19, 2024
4⭐️
2🌶️
✨small town
✨roommates
✨90s/00s nostalgia
✨whimsy
✨dual POV
Oh my, this book was adorable. Brynn and her roommate Josh wake up in Carson’s Cove, the scene of Brynn’s favorite, binge-able 2000’s teen drama. The only way to return to their real lives is by giving the characters the ending they deserved before the show was cancelled after 5 seasons. It’s fun, quirky and a bit whimsical. It’s also very clearly inspired by One Tree Hill, Dawson’s Creek and The O.C. (seriously, Chad Michael, Spencer, Seth), and as a millennial, I ATE IT UP.
I also love how Kate Robb always puts a magical twist on her books. It may not be for everyone, but it’s definitely for me!
📚Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group and Kate Robb for the ARC of Prime Time Romance.
2🌶️
✨small town
✨roommates
✨90s/00s nostalgia
✨whimsy
✨dual POV
Oh my, this book was adorable. Brynn and her roommate Josh wake up in Carson’s Cove, the scene of Brynn’s favorite, binge-able 2000’s teen drama. The only way to return to their real lives is by giving the characters the ending they deserved before the show was cancelled after 5 seasons. It’s fun, quirky and a bit whimsical. It’s also very clearly inspired by One Tree Hill, Dawson’s Creek and The O.C. (seriously, Chad Michael, Spencer, Seth), and as a millennial, I ATE IT UP.
I also love how Kate Robb always puts a magical twist on her books. It may not be for everyone, but it’s definitely for me!
📚Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group and Kate Robb for the ARC of Prime Time Romance.
April 6, 2024
Well, I have a quick confession: firstly, I’m thankful to 2000’s TV series that made me spend my twenties glued to the TV with my friends and enjoy them fully as a kind of celebration with theme parties, before "Netflix and chill" was invented and binge-watching became a terminology.
Kate Robb’s latest book presents a tribute to one of these shows: "Dawson’s Creek" and its highly questioned ending (another quick confession, at the risk of getting booed by several fans: I’m still satisfied with the conclusion as a devoted member of Team Pacey. Don’t you think Joshua Jackson is still, even though he’s middle-aged now, turning into creepy Doctor Death?)
Anyways, in this book, Brynn, recently divorced and financially struggling, shares her house with her roommate Josh. She finds happiness getting connected with the characters of Carson’s Cove (a.k.a. "Dawson’s Creek"). But when the show finishes with a cliffhanger after five seasons, where Sloane (a.k.a. Joey Potter) and Spencer (a.k.a. Dawson Leery) couldn’t come clean with their feelings, she gets frustrated just like other show fans. On the same night, she finds a surprise birthday cake left on her doorstep and celebrates her 30th birthday, wishing herself a happily ever after. The very next day, she opens her eyes to an alternate reality where she turns into Sloane, the girl next door (also Joey Potter), living in the same universe as her favorite series, with a twist: her roommate Josh also appears as Fletch (somewhat Pacey, the bad boy of the town). Instead of chasing her happiness with Spencer, she realizes she starts catching feelings for Fletch. Sparks keep flying around them, and their chemistry is undeniably palpable. So, what kind of happily ever after awaits Brynn in this universe, and can she carry this hard-found happiness into her new divorced, fresh-start life?
Well, I think 2000’s dramas as alternative universe themes are a little bit past their expiration date to intrigue me as inspiring themes. And I also had a little hard time connecting with the characters, finding the progression of the romance story a little rushed, insta without much development. I enjoyed this entertaining reading, but I guess I expected to like it a little more, and it didn’t fully meet my expectations. So I decided to give it three stars, which means I had no negative feelings, but I wish I could love it more.
I hope I enjoy the next book by the author a little more.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Dial Trade Paperback for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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Kate Robb’s latest book presents a tribute to one of these shows: "Dawson’s Creek" and its highly questioned ending (another quick confession, at the risk of getting booed by several fans: I’m still satisfied with the conclusion as a devoted member of Team Pacey. Don’t you think Joshua Jackson is still, even though he’s middle-aged now, turning into creepy Doctor Death?)
Anyways, in this book, Brynn, recently divorced and financially struggling, shares her house with her roommate Josh. She finds happiness getting connected with the characters of Carson’s Cove (a.k.a. "Dawson’s Creek"). But when the show finishes with a cliffhanger after five seasons, where Sloane (a.k.a. Joey Potter) and Spencer (a.k.a. Dawson Leery) couldn’t come clean with their feelings, she gets frustrated just like other show fans. On the same night, she finds a surprise birthday cake left on her doorstep and celebrates her 30th birthday, wishing herself a happily ever after. The very next day, she opens her eyes to an alternate reality where she turns into Sloane, the girl next door (also Joey Potter), living in the same universe as her favorite series, with a twist: her roommate Josh also appears as Fletch (somewhat Pacey, the bad boy of the town). Instead of chasing her happiness with Spencer, she realizes she starts catching feelings for Fletch. Sparks keep flying around them, and their chemistry is undeniably palpable. So, what kind of happily ever after awaits Brynn in this universe, and can she carry this hard-found happiness into her new divorced, fresh-start life?
Well, I think 2000’s dramas as alternative universe themes are a little bit past their expiration date to intrigue me as inspiring themes. And I also had a little hard time connecting with the characters, finding the progression of the romance story a little rushed, insta without much development. I enjoyed this entertaining reading, but I guess I expected to like it a little more, and it didn’t fully meet my expectations. So I decided to give it three stars, which means I had no negative feelings, but I wish I could love it more.
I hope I enjoy the next book by the author a little more.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Dial Trade Paperback for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
December 19, 2024
3⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Toronto, Canada
Publication date ~ September 3, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 321 (36 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 4 minutes
Narrators ~ Kristyna Ruth Zaharek, Sean Patrick Hopkins
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ small town, a TV show within a book, magical realism, HS drama adult edition, roommates to lovers, minimal steamage
Brynn/Sloan (29) & Josh/Fletch are roommates, but not really friends per say. When she makes a birthday wish one night they both wake up the next day inside her favorite TV show of all time Carson’s Cove. It is similar to most teen drama shows from the 2000's. Ah, the good old days of good shows to watch without a DVR. 😂 And I probably would have watched this show back in the day. My daughter has been watching the oldies and it's fun to peek in while she's watching for some nostalgia.
The characters having a book name and TV show name took a hot minute to realize who’s who. I didn't really feel the chemistry with them. Perhaps since they really weren't friends and just roommates. I did like him. Her, eh, I could take or leave her.
I did enjoy it for the most part. I just hated how hung up Brynn was on how she expected everything to be, which had her making dumb decisions. Overall, weirdly entertaining at times.
Love the cover.
Narration notes:
She was fine. He was fine with his normal voice, but awful with all others, even men. And wow his voice for the lady at the bar made her seem like she smokes 16 packs of cigs a day.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Toronto, Canada
Publication date ~ September 3, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 321 (36 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 4 minutes
Narrators ~ Kristyna Ruth Zaharek, Sean Patrick Hopkins
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ small town, a TV show within a book, magical realism, HS drama adult edition, roommates to lovers, minimal steamage
Brynn/Sloan (29) & Josh/Fletch are roommates, but not really friends per say. When she makes a birthday wish one night they both wake up the next day inside her favorite TV show of all time Carson’s Cove. It is similar to most teen drama shows from the 2000's. Ah, the good old days of good shows to watch without a DVR. 😂 And I probably would have watched this show back in the day. My daughter has been watching the oldies and it's fun to peek in while she's watching for some nostalgia.
The characters having a book name and TV show name took a hot minute to realize who’s who. I didn't really feel the chemistry with them. Perhaps since they really weren't friends and just roommates. I did like him. Her, eh, I could take or leave her.
I did enjoy it for the most part. I just hated how hung up Brynn was on how she expected everything to be, which had her making dumb decisions. Overall, weirdly entertaining at times.
Love the cover.
Narration notes:
She was fine. He was fine with his normal voice, but awful with all others, even men. And wow his voice for the lady at the bar made her seem like she smokes 16 packs of cigs a day.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
February 2, 2025
This was my first novel by Kate Robb. This book is funny and had me hooked from the beginning. I loved the back and forth banter. If her writing in her other books is like it is in Prime Time Romance, then I'll be reading more of her books. This book brought me back to my teens and gave me Dawson's Creek meets Pleasantville vibes. I'm always good for a rom- com, but this one really hit the spot.
Rarely do I root for the enemies in the story, but at times, I was doing just that in this book. Josh and Brynns chemistry was phenomenal, and I was rooting for them throughout the book.
Brynn moves in with Josh since she's fresh off of a divorce and needs a new start and cut down on the bills. They both get transported into her favorite teenage soap opera. You know soaps aww always full of drama.
Of your looking for a lighthearted and funny read, then this is it.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Rarely do I root for the enemies in the story, but at times, I was doing just that in this book. Josh and Brynns chemistry was phenomenal, and I was rooting for them throughout the book.
Brynn moves in with Josh since she's fresh off of a divorce and needs a new start and cut down on the bills. They both get transported into her favorite teenage soap opera. You know soaps aww always full of drama.
Of your looking for a lighthearted and funny read, then this is it.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2024
Happy publishing day 🎉
This was such a weird read, I'm kind of unsure where to begin but bare with me while I attempt to summarize my thoughts.
In this story, Brynn has been having a pretty rough go of things and is feeling a bit lost in her life. She has recently gone through a divorce, wherein she also lost a lot of friends due to them being mutual friends with her ex-husband, and feels a bit like she's floating through life. She is living with our MMC Josh to help afford rent, and taking comfort in her favorite teenage soap, Carson's Cove. Suddenly, her and Josh find themselves having been transported to Carson's Cove and are expected to live out the remainder of the soap's storyline to give it a proper ending as the sweetheart FMC and the town bad boy.
This concept sounded super fun to me and I was very excited to read this, and through the first 20%, I LOVED this. I thought it was going to fall somewhere around a 4-5 stars. I even told friends that I had a super good feeling about this one. I could feel the chemistry/tension between the main characters, the banter was fun, I heavily related to the little bit of the FMC we had gotten to know so far, it was dual POV (which I love as does I think every other person on the planet), I was having a great time. Then we got into Carson's Cove... which I thought is where the story would really pick up and I'd get even more into it, but unfortunately it super lost me. First of all, it got this strange energy about it that felt almost thriller/mystery-ish? But it was still very much a romance book and not really delving into the fact that what was going on was SUPER creepy. Then there was a sort of love triangle between our FMC and MMC and another character on the show, and perhaps it's my personal dislike of love triangles, but this really threw off the romance/chemistry between our 2 main characters for me. Our FMC pining over the other man from the show the whole time TO Josh of all people was super bizarre and instead of rooting for them as a couple, I honestly just started to feel bad for him and wish he would find someone that chose him first, which is not at all what I want to come out of a romance book feeling.
However, all of that said, this did hold my attention and was extremely binge-able. While this storyline was not for me, I think Kate Robb's writing style absolutely was, and I definitely plan to pick up more books from her in the future, as I think there has to be some others from her in the future that will be hits for me. Her writing is addicting honestly, and even though I had some gripes with the storyline, I wanted to keep reading.
Overall: Really fun premise that unfortunately didn't stick the landing for me. 2.75 stars rounded up.
Thank you so much to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was such a weird read, I'm kind of unsure where to begin but bare with me while I attempt to summarize my thoughts.
In this story, Brynn has been having a pretty rough go of things and is feeling a bit lost in her life. She has recently gone through a divorce, wherein she also lost a lot of friends due to them being mutual friends with her ex-husband, and feels a bit like she's floating through life. She is living with our MMC Josh to help afford rent, and taking comfort in her favorite teenage soap, Carson's Cove. Suddenly, her and Josh find themselves having been transported to Carson's Cove and are expected to live out the remainder of the soap's storyline to give it a proper ending as the sweetheart FMC and the town bad boy.
This concept sounded super fun to me and I was very excited to read this, and through the first 20%, I LOVED this. I thought it was going to fall somewhere around a 4-5 stars. I even told friends that I had a super good feeling about this one. I could feel the chemistry/tension between the main characters, the banter was fun, I heavily related to the little bit of the FMC we had gotten to know so far, it was dual POV (which I love as does I think every other person on the planet), I was having a great time. Then we got into Carson's Cove... which I thought is where the story would really pick up and I'd get even more into it, but unfortunately it super lost me. First of all, it got this strange energy about it that felt almost thriller/mystery-ish? But it was still very much a romance book and not really delving into the fact that what was going on was SUPER creepy. Then there was a sort of love triangle between our FMC and MMC and another character on the show, and perhaps it's my personal dislike of love triangles, but this really threw off the romance/chemistry between our 2 main characters for me. Our FMC pining over the other man from the show the whole time TO Josh of all people was super bizarre and instead of rooting for them as a couple, I honestly just started to feel bad for him and wish he would find someone that chose him first, which is not at all what I want to come out of a romance book feeling.
However, all of that said, this did hold my attention and was extremely binge-able. While this storyline was not for me, I think Kate Robb's writing style absolutely was, and I definitely plan to pick up more books from her in the future, as I think there has to be some others from her in the future that will be hits for me. Her writing is addicting honestly, and even though I had some gripes with the storyline, I wanted to keep reading.
Overall: Really fun premise that unfortunately didn't stick the landing for me. 2.75 stars rounded up.
Thank you so much to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 4, 2024
3.5⭐️
One of the main reasons I love this author is her characters are always full on adults🥹🫶🏻 I’m talking about truly developed frontal lobes, not just being of age.
A breath of fresh air in the book community.
On the night of her 30th birthday, Brynn was watching her favourite teenage tv show “Carson’s Cove” with her hot roommate, Josh. She is obsessed with it and has rewatched it numerous times since she was a teen herself.
Long story short, a random guy with bleached hair delivers a cake at midnight exactly and she makes a wish to have her happily ever after. Waking up the next morning in Carson’s Cove seems like a dream come true, only she accidentally brought Josh with her.
The plot itself is very entertaining. I loved the whole “be careful what you wish for” idea. I only wished it had a more grandiose plot twist. Who is that bleached blonde? Why does he have magic? How did he do it?
So many unanswered questions.
Additionally, I loved Brynn more than Josh and he seemed to be lacking a little as the main love interest. I expected him to do something when one of the main conflicts happened. But, instead, he just accepts it.
Those are just my little commentaries, otherwise, it’s a solid magical rom-com. If you loved the movie “Isn’t It Romantic?”, you’ll love this book for sure.
I loved the first book by this author, and this one didn’t disappoint either. I’m excited to read more in the future. I love magical realism but with realistic relationships.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC.
One of the main reasons I love this author is her characters are always full on adults🥹🫶🏻 I’m talking about truly developed frontal lobes, not just being of age.
A breath of fresh air in the book community.
On the night of her 30th birthday, Brynn was watching her favourite teenage tv show “Carson’s Cove” with her hot roommate, Josh. She is obsessed with it and has rewatched it numerous times since she was a teen herself.
Long story short, a random guy with bleached hair delivers a cake at midnight exactly and she makes a wish to have her happily ever after. Waking up the next morning in Carson’s Cove seems like a dream come true, only she accidentally brought Josh with her.
The plot itself is very entertaining. I loved the whole “be careful what you wish for” idea. I only wished it had a more grandiose plot twist. Who is that bleached blonde? Why does he have magic? How did he do it?
So many unanswered questions.
Additionally, I loved Brynn more than Josh and he seemed to be lacking a little as the main love interest. I expected him to do something when one of the main conflicts happened. But, instead, he just accepts it.
Those are just my little commentaries, otherwise, it’s a solid magical rom-com. If you loved the movie “Isn’t It Romantic?”, you’ll love this book for sure.
I loved the first book by this author, and this one didn’t disappoint either. I’m excited to read more in the future. I love magical realism but with realistic relationships.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC.
March 20, 2024
Prime Time Romance by Kate Robb catapulted me straight into a whirlwind of nostalgic bliss of 2000s teen dramas, sprinkled with a generous dose of alternate reality magic. It was sooo much fun!!
First off, let's talk about Brynn, our leading lady. Newly single and navigating the murky waters of adulthood post-divorce, she's the epitome of relatable. I mean, who hasn't found solace in the comforting glow of their favorite TV show during life's tumultuous moments? And speaking of TV shows, Carson's Cove is the ultimate sanctuary, a beacon of hope in Brynn's otherwise topsy-turvy world.
Things take an unexpected turn when Brynn and her roommate Josh find themselves magically transported into the very heart of Carson's Cove. Suddenly, they're not just Brynn and Josh anymore; they've morphed into Sloan and Fletch, the dynamic duo of this small screen sensation.
What follows is a delightful romp through familiar tropes and heartwarming moments as Brynn and Josh navigate their new reality, all the while striving to fulfill Brynn's wish for a happily-ever-after. Sparks fly, emotions run high, and before you know it, you're rooting for these characters like they're your own best friends.
As much as I loved romance in this book I would've loved even more a few more heart-fluttering moments between Brynn and Josh to really amp up the feels. But what made this book even more special were pop culture references that had me squealing with delight! From subtle nods to beloved TV shows to nostalgic Easter eggs scattered throughout, Prime Time Romance is a love letter to the teen dramas that shaped a generation.
If you're in the market for a feel-good read that seamlessly blends romcom charm with a healthy dose of nostalgia, look no further than Prime Time Romance. Kate Robb has crafted a story that's as addictive as your favorite binge-worthy TV show, with characters you'll root for until the very last page.
First off, let's talk about Brynn, our leading lady. Newly single and navigating the murky waters of adulthood post-divorce, she's the epitome of relatable. I mean, who hasn't found solace in the comforting glow of their favorite TV show during life's tumultuous moments? And speaking of TV shows, Carson's Cove is the ultimate sanctuary, a beacon of hope in Brynn's otherwise topsy-turvy world.
Things take an unexpected turn when Brynn and her roommate Josh find themselves magically transported into the very heart of Carson's Cove. Suddenly, they're not just Brynn and Josh anymore; they've morphed into Sloan and Fletch, the dynamic duo of this small screen sensation.
What follows is a delightful romp through familiar tropes and heartwarming moments as Brynn and Josh navigate their new reality, all the while striving to fulfill Brynn's wish for a happily-ever-after. Sparks fly, emotions run high, and before you know it, you're rooting for these characters like they're your own best friends.
As much as I loved romance in this book I would've loved even more a few more heart-fluttering moments between Brynn and Josh to really amp up the feels. But what made this book even more special were pop culture references that had me squealing with delight! From subtle nods to beloved TV shows to nostalgic Easter eggs scattered throughout, Prime Time Romance is a love letter to the teen dramas that shaped a generation.
If you're in the market for a feel-good read that seamlessly blends romcom charm with a healthy dose of nostalgia, look no further than Prime Time Romance. Kate Robb has crafted a story that's as addictive as your favorite binge-worthy TV show, with characters you'll root for until the very last page.
April 10, 2024
Have you ever wanted to just hop into your favorite show and give it the ending it really deserves? Or wanted to give it an ending overall since it got cancelled?
Welp, in this novel, they do that.
I know I have wanted to do this from time to time (Gilmore Girls, obviously, who leaves it like that? Come on Netflix).
Prepare to be engrossed in this novel and root for the people you never thought you would. Such a fun, cute novel, and perfect for a beach read, or book club.
Thank you NetGalley for my E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Welp, in this novel, they do that.
I know I have wanted to do this from time to time (Gilmore Girls, obviously, who leaves it like that? Come on Netflix).
Prepare to be engrossed in this novel and root for the people you never thought you would. Such a fun, cute novel, and perfect for a beach read, or book club.
Thank you NetGalley for my E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 6, 2024
Prime Time Romance was an adult romcom, mixed with magical realism, that swept me away. The characters were easy to connect with, the story-line was fun, and I closed the book happy with where the story took us. If you’ve ever wanted to take a step into your favorite tv series, especially one that didn’t get the ending it deserved, this book is for you!
By that second chapter, I already adored Josh. He was such a good guy, and didn’t think twice about taking care of his roommate, Brynn. Josh was hilarious while also being thoughtful, dependable and fun. So when the two of them woke up in Brynn’s favorite tv show’s town, Carson Cove, I was glued to the pages wondering what was going to happen next.
Once they realized that they couldn’t just go back home, and had to play these characters' parts, I loved watching them grapple with their previous and current lives. Brynn was now the local sweetheart and Josh the town’s bad boy. Yet there were elements from both of those characters that reached deep into their hearts. That made them second guess and see things in a new light. And made them realize what they truly wanted. I loved watching them grow in this environment and their story made me smile so much.
This small town romance was a quirky, adorable read that was so enjoyable! I love how effortless her books are to enjoy! Whether it was watching the friendship bloom between Brynn and Josh, to seeing them interact with the other characters, to just watching everything unfold, it was all so much fun! As someone who died a little inside when I never got a true ending to a series I adored, *cough The OC cough*, this book made me so happy! I can't wait to read whatever Kate Robb writes next!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Personal Instagram * Blog Instagram * Facebook * Twitter * Bloglovin * Feedly
Sloan and Spencer were denied their happily ever after, and I can’t let it happen again.
By that second chapter, I already adored Josh. He was such a good guy, and didn’t think twice about taking care of his roommate, Brynn. Josh was hilarious while also being thoughtful, dependable and fun. So when the two of them woke up in Brynn’s favorite tv show’s town, Carson Cove, I was glued to the pages wondering what was going to happen next.
Spencer waves as we approach.
“Hey! You guys made it. I was starting to get worried.”
His open shirt catches in the breeze.
“You’re sure about him?” I ask.
Brynn’s smile falters for a second. Or maybe I just imagine it.
Once they realized that they couldn’t just go back home, and had to play these characters' parts, I loved watching them grapple with their previous and current lives. Brynn was now the local sweetheart and Josh the town’s bad boy. Yet there were elements from both of those characters that reached deep into their hearts. That made them second guess and see things in a new light. And made them realize what they truly wanted. I loved watching them grow in this environment and their story made me smile so much.
I’ve assumed that there is only one way to that happily ever after: fall in love with the perfect boy and get him to love you back forever. Now, I’m not so sure.
This small town romance was a quirky, adorable read that was so enjoyable! I love how effortless her books are to enjoy! Whether it was watching the friendship bloom between Brynn and Josh, to seeing them interact with the other characters, to just watching everything unfold, it was all so much fun! As someone who died a little inside when I never got a true ending to a series I adored, *cough The OC cough*, this book made me so happy! I can't wait to read whatever Kate Robb writes next!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Personal Instagram * Blog Instagram * Facebook * Twitter * Bloglovin * Feedly
July 21, 2024
I really enjoyed This Spells Love but I LOVED Prime Time Romance! Kate Robb knows how to infuse magical realism/alternate universes with real life perfectly, and I loved the 90s TV drama vibes. While this is largely a tribute to Dawson's Creek (Carson's Cove gave it away immediately though I haven't seen the show), Robb also uses a blend of other TV shows, a couple of which I have seen but most I have not. That wasn't an issue for me though and I love that she lists many of them at the end of the book. I loved both Brynn and Josh, especially the growth I saw in Brynn as the story went on. There are lots of funny moments that made me laugh out loud, but an important message as well which was a great combination.
I've been trying to read more books with my eyes (and before release day), so it did take a minute for me to finish Prime Time Romance, but it had nothing to do with the pacing which was perfect. I would put it at medium to fast and once I figured out where it was taking me, I didn’t want to put it down. There is plenty of drama (obviously since this is created based on TV dramas), as well as a little bit of comradery. Many of the characters learn important lessons, and I loved the entire vibe of the book as a whole. Of course, I also loved the romance, and it was very swoon-worthy for me! If you were/are a fan of 90s TV dramas, then I have no doubt you will love this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I've been trying to read more books with my eyes (and before release day), so it did take a minute for me to finish Prime Time Romance, but it had nothing to do with the pacing which was perfect. I would put it at medium to fast and once I figured out where it was taking me, I didn’t want to put it down. There is plenty of drama (obviously since this is created based on TV dramas), as well as a little bit of comradery. Many of the characters learn important lessons, and I loved the entire vibe of the book as a whole. Of course, I also loved the romance, and it was very swoon-worthy for me! If you were/are a fan of 90s TV dramas, then I have no doubt you will love this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 9, 2024
This was a feel good read that best reminds me of Dawson’s Creek meets The Good Place.
After making a 30th birthday wish, Brynn ends up in Carson’s Cove, the set of her favorite 2000’s teen drama alongside her roommate Josh. The twist is that she is now playing one of the characters, Sloan, who fans believe never got the happily ever after she deserves, and he is playing the bad boy Fletch. So what happens when Brynn (or now Sloane) begins to fall for the wrong guy?
I love how Kate Robb always puts a unique magical twist in her books, and the concept of this was unlike anything else I read. Robb made the story of Carson’s Cove come to life (at first I googled if this was in fact a real TV show) with fully developed subplots and a full cast of dynamic characters. I loved Brynn and Josh together, but I would have loved even more angst and heartfelt moments between them as their love story moved pretty quickly.
Read if you like:
-2000s TV nostalgia
-Magical realism
-Lighthearted reads
-Friends to lovers
-Small town romance
-Dawn’s Creek, Gilmore Girls
After making a 30th birthday wish, Brynn ends up in Carson’s Cove, the set of her favorite 2000’s teen drama alongside her roommate Josh. The twist is that she is now playing one of the characters, Sloan, who fans believe never got the happily ever after she deserves, and he is playing the bad boy Fletch. So what happens when Brynn (or now Sloane) begins to fall for the wrong guy?
I love how Kate Robb always puts a unique magical twist in her books, and the concept of this was unlike anything else I read. Robb made the story of Carson’s Cove come to life (at first I googled if this was in fact a real TV show) with fully developed subplots and a full cast of dynamic characters. I loved Brynn and Josh together, but I would have loved even more angst and heartfelt moments between them as their love story moved pretty quickly.
Read if you like:
-2000s TV nostalgia
-Magical realism
-Lighthearted reads
-Friends to lovers
-Small town romance
-Dawn’s Creek, Gilmore Girls
September 16, 2024
Imagine Dawson’s Creek ended before you got the season finale you’d been dreaming of, and then mix it together with the magical realism of Pleasantville, and you have a small town Hallmark style romcom chocked full of nostalgia!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
Dual POV
Magical Realism
Stuck in a tv show
Forced Proximity
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
Self-discovery
90s/2000s Nostalgia
Small Town
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲?
This friends to lovers was so sweet and I enjoyed watching their romance blossom as both Josh and Brynn discovered what they each wanted for their futures. Plus they had excellent chemistry with some fun moments full of sparks!
🔥 Steam level: Open Door
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?
Slow burn
𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
If you are looking for a fluffy and cozy romcom that brings on the nostalgia in the form of a warm hug, this book is one you’ll want to grab a warm blanket and curl up with.
3.5 stars
Thank you Dial Press for this copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
Dual POV
Magical Realism
Stuck in a tv show
Forced Proximity
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
Self-discovery
90s/2000s Nostalgia
Small Town
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲?
This friends to lovers was so sweet and I enjoyed watching their romance blossom as both Josh and Brynn discovered what they each wanted for their futures. Plus they had excellent chemistry with some fun moments full of sparks!
🔥 Steam level: Open Door
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?
Slow burn
𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
If you are looking for a fluffy and cozy romcom that brings on the nostalgia in the form of a warm hug, this book is one you’ll want to grab a warm blanket and curl up with.
3.5 stars
Thank you Dial Press for this copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
September 29, 2024
★2.47 stars★
what a shit show. kate robb, you have let me down. this concept - Pleasantville meets Teen Beach Movie should have been amazing but oh my god, I could not STAND Brynn who was supposed to be thirty but acted like a petulant twenty year old who was too blind to be aware of anyone around her.
I kept waiting for her to hit that aha moment characters usually hit around the 30-50% mark but we were a solid 60% in and she was still deluded and pissing me off. It was so bad that I found myself skimming to the end.
I admittedly liked the unconventional ending but overall, not a fan. Kate Robb, I love ya but I think we missed the mark a bit on this one. I'm still going to read anything you write though
______________
pre-review
me trying to get through this book:
what a shit show. kate robb, you have let me down. this concept - Pleasantville meets Teen Beach Movie should have been amazing but oh my god, I could not STAND Brynn who was supposed to be thirty but acted like a petulant twenty year old who was too blind to be aware of anyone around her.
I kept waiting for her to hit that aha moment characters usually hit around the 30-50% mark but we were a solid 60% in and she was still deluded and pissing me off. It was so bad that I found myself skimming to the end.
I admittedly liked the unconventional ending but overall, not a fan. Kate Robb, I love ya but I think we missed the mark a bit on this one. I'm still going to read anything you write though
______________
pre-review
me trying to get through this book:
December 15, 2024
A fun and unique premise. The story did seem to lag a bit and I was over Brynn taking crap her supposed "friend" and wake up to the fact that Spencer and Sloane were not meant to be.
A copy was kindly provided by the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
A copy was kindly provided by the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 30, 2025
Après mon coup de coeur de l’espace pour le premier roman de l’autrice, j’ai eu envie d’enchaîner et de découvrir son second… malheureusement j’ai moins accroché. Le pitch est original, l’idée très cool mais j’ai trouvé la romance moins accrocheuse, plus « forcée », moins « évidente » et belle. Ça reste une chouette lecture et une romance mignonne mais This spells love restera mon FAV ✨
September 2, 2024
I have never watched Dawson’s Creek, but the premise of this book is essentially FMC and MMC get transported to a knock-off DC. Then, hijinks ensue.
Brynn is a disillusioned woman, whose belief in happily ever after was dashed when her former husband decided to divorce her. He claimed he still loved her, but he was no longer in love with her. I call bs. Fortunately, we never had to see him grace our pages. All me got of him were mentions of his and Brynn’s past.
Josh is a charming bartender who is used to disappointment. He is Brynn’s roommate, and the two truly don’t have much interaction until about the start of the book.
Yet when they forced to live in the world of Carson’s Cove they find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another. Which proves to be an issue because in the world of CC they aren’t themselves, they’re characters. And the mysterious fellow responsible for their transmigration is determined to keep them apart.
If you’ve been any rom-com you can guess what happens next. Nevertheless, despite the predictability, I still had fun reading this overall.
Huge thank you to Dial Press and Goodreads for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Brynn is a disillusioned woman, whose belief in happily ever after was dashed when her former husband decided to divorce her. He claimed he still loved her, but he was no longer in love with her. I call bs. Fortunately, we never had to see him grace our pages. All me got of him were mentions of his and Brynn’s past.
Josh is a charming bartender who is used to disappointment. He is Brynn’s roommate, and the two truly don’t have much interaction until about the start of the book.
Yet when they forced to live in the world of Carson’s Cove they find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another. Which proves to be an issue because in the world of CC they aren’t themselves, they’re characters. And the mysterious fellow responsible for their transmigration is determined to keep them apart.
If you’ve been any rom-com you can guess what happens next. Nevertheless, despite the predictability, I still had fun reading this overall.
Huge thank you to Dial Press and Goodreads for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2024
This one was made for Dawson's Creek fans, especially if you're Team Pacey! The male main character is even named Joshua Alan Jackson Bishop. You see what the author did there! I loved the details.
Newly divorced Brynn makes a wish on her 30th birthday and wakes up to find herself literally transported to Carson’s Cove, the setting of her favourite teenage drama series. And she's not alone! Her roommate, Josh, is there too, and together they must complete an important task in order to return home.
I love a bit of unexplainable magic, but I didn't completely understand the main conflict. Why did the growing feelings between Brynn and Josh have to disrupt the plan so much? They both know Carson's Cove isn't real life, so why not put their emotions on hold, finish the task, and continue their relationship in the real world? I didn't quite get it.
As for the romance, it was just okay, but I really enjoyed Brynn and Josh as individual characters, especially how their personal struggles mirrored their experiences in the fictional world. The intentionally stereotypical cast of characters and drama was fun to explore, too!
(heat level: a couple open-door scenes, explicit details)
Newly divorced Brynn makes a wish on her 30th birthday and wakes up to find herself literally transported to Carson’s Cove, the setting of her favourite teenage drama series. And she's not alone! Her roommate, Josh, is there too, and together they must complete an important task in order to return home.
I love a bit of unexplainable magic, but I didn't completely understand the main conflict. Why did the growing feelings between Brynn and Josh have to disrupt the plan so much? They both know Carson's Cove isn't real life, so why not put their emotions on hold, finish the task, and continue their relationship in the real world? I didn't quite get it.
As for the romance, it was just okay, but I really enjoyed Brynn and Josh as individual characters, especially how their personal struggles mirrored their experiences in the fictional world. The intentionally stereotypical cast of characters and drama was fun to explore, too!
(heat level: a couple open-door scenes, explicit details)
October 20, 2024
If you like magical realism, then you're the perfect candidate for PRIME TIME ROMANCE.
Divorced and about to turn thirty, Brynn is depressed that she's single and living with a roommate, a bartender named Josh. When someone delivers a birthday cake to her apartment, Brynn wishes for a happily ever after. The next morning... she wakes up somewhere strange. She's in Carson's Cove, her favorite soap from the 2000s. But somehow she's the main character Sloan, who never received her happy ending with her childhood friend, Spencer. And Josh is Fletch, the town's bad boy. The two are stuck in Carson's Cove--at the whim of an extra from the show who demands that Sloan and Spencer finally receive their happy ending.
It's a weird premise, yes. I love 2000s soaps, but Dawson's Creek was one I never really watched. Still it's easy to recognize allusions to that show and plenty of others from the era. That part is fun. I had an issue wrapping my mind around the fact that everyone else had no problem with Brynn seeming to be Sloan and Josh as Fletch-- not sure why that part bothered me, but not them stuck in the set of a defunct TV show!
The story is cute even when it's bizarre. Brynn/Sloan starts to fall for Spencer--she adored him (and Sloan) as a teen. But the more she explores Carson's Cove, the more she realizes that it might not be the perfect place that she idealized when she was younger. She sees bullying and poverty and more. As for Sloan and Spencer... well, Brynn can't help returning to Fletch/Josh. As for Josh (who was easily my favorite), he is loving running his "aunt's" bar in the Cove. In real life, Josh lost his dad and eventually had to sell his dad's bar, which destroyed him.
There's no huge conflict in ROMANCE, it's more about Brynn and Josh attempting to escape Carson's Cove. There's also Brynn realizing that perfection isn't everything. The story does a good job of exploring life lessons about mean girls and how perfection on the surface can mean darkness lies beneath. It also shows how you need to go for what makes you happy instead of what might seem right.
This is a quirky story, a little strange, but it's cute and fun too. 3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Random House/Dial Press Trade Paperback in return for an unbiased review.
Divorced and about to turn thirty, Brynn is depressed that she's single and living with a roommate, a bartender named Josh. When someone delivers a birthday cake to her apartment, Brynn wishes for a happily ever after. The next morning... she wakes up somewhere strange. She's in Carson's Cove, her favorite soap from the 2000s. But somehow she's the main character Sloan, who never received her happy ending with her childhood friend, Spencer. And Josh is Fletch, the town's bad boy. The two are stuck in Carson's Cove--at the whim of an extra from the show who demands that Sloan and Spencer finally receive their happy ending.
It's a weird premise, yes. I love 2000s soaps, but Dawson's Creek was one I never really watched. Still it's easy to recognize allusions to that show and plenty of others from the era. That part is fun. I had an issue wrapping my mind around the fact that everyone else had no problem with Brynn seeming to be Sloan and Josh as Fletch-- not sure why that part bothered me, but not them stuck in the set of a defunct TV show!
The story is cute even when it's bizarre. Brynn/Sloan starts to fall for Spencer--she adored him (and Sloan) as a teen. But the more she explores Carson's Cove, the more she realizes that it might not be the perfect place that she idealized when she was younger. She sees bullying and poverty and more. As for Sloan and Spencer... well, Brynn can't help returning to Fletch/Josh. As for Josh (who was easily my favorite), he is loving running his "aunt's" bar in the Cove. In real life, Josh lost his dad and eventually had to sell his dad's bar, which destroyed him.
There's no huge conflict in ROMANCE, it's more about Brynn and Josh attempting to escape Carson's Cove. There's also Brynn realizing that perfection isn't everything. The story does a good job of exploring life lessons about mean girls and how perfection on the surface can mean darkness lies beneath. It also shows how you need to go for what makes you happy instead of what might seem right.
This is a quirky story, a little strange, but it's cute and fun too. 3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Random House/Dial Press Trade Paperback in return for an unbiased review.
July 12, 2025
okay, I thought more about this one and am annoyed? it's more like a 2.75 actually.
the magic wasn't ever explained and that bugs me so much. like how is it possible to make a wish and end up living as the main character of your favorite TV show?? someone tell me! (I definitely understand that it's magical realism and sometimes you just gotta go with it but also time moved on in the real world during this so how does that add up?! I have so many questions).
the pacing was good! I didn't lie about that lol but I meant more like from the writing style and short chapters to scene building and so on but..... now that I'm thinking it over...the pacing when it comes to the love interests and how they moved from roommates to friends to lovers doesn't add up from a pacing perspective. it's almost like we had a kind of insta love but not really? I also have to admit that once the love declaration comes out, I lost interest cause what do you mean? you love her? when did that happen?
butttttt I did still enjoy the story, it made me laugh and I had a good time with it. so overall it wasn't bad but it wasn't good. it just was?
......
the premise was unique and quirky. decent pacing...overall, a good little story to pass the time. 💕
the magic wasn't ever explained and that bugs me so much. like how is it possible to make a wish and end up living as the main character of your favorite TV show?? someone tell me! (I definitely understand that it's magical realism and sometimes you just gotta go with it but also time moved on in the real world during this so how does that add up?! I have so many questions).
the pacing was good! I didn't lie about that lol but I meant more like from the writing style and short chapters to scene building and so on but..... now that I'm thinking it over...the pacing when it comes to the love interests and how they moved from roommates to friends to lovers doesn't add up from a pacing perspective. it's almost like we had a kind of insta love but not really? I also have to admit that once the love declaration comes out, I lost interest cause what do you mean? you love her? when did that happen?
butttttt I did still enjoy the story, it made me laugh and I had a good time with it. so overall it wasn't bad but it wasn't good. it just was?
......
the premise was unique and quirky. decent pacing...overall, a good little story to pass the time. 💕
January 26, 2025
This was a fever dream. You could say it's if 𝘊𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢'𝘴 fairy godmother went rogue.
𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 finds Brynn and Josh misplaced in the world of the 2000s famous teen soap: 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯'𝘴 𝘊𝘰𝘷𝘦. Brynn is hesitant to start her thirties as a divorcée who still shares her house with her brother's friend - Josh. Josh is content with being a bartender but he's still haunted by what he's lost.
As the two get get sucked in the mess of Brynn's birthday wish and wake up in the fictional New England town featured in Carson's Cove, to fix the unfortunate ending, they might just help along their lives.
The beginning of the story had me hooked but the ending was lackluster. Without giving away spoilers and the plot twists, let's just say it could have been better.
The romance felt too neatly tied up without any angst towards the end like hello? where was the I'll-do-anything-to-be-with-you-forever? And tell me why it was only plain acceptance, like aight-cool-we-can't-be-together? huh.
- ~ -
3.78 / 5✩
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘙𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘰𝘮 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 finds Brynn and Josh misplaced in the world of the 2000s famous teen soap: 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯'𝘴 𝘊𝘰𝘷𝘦. Brynn is hesitant to start her thirties as a divorcée who still shares her house with her brother's friend - Josh. Josh is content with being a bartender but he's still haunted by what he's lost.
As the two get get sucked in the mess of Brynn's birthday wish and wake up in the fictional New England town featured in Carson's Cove, to fix the unfortunate ending, they might just help along their lives.
The beginning of the story had me hooked but the ending was lackluster. Without giving away spoilers and the plot twists, let's just say it could have been better.
The romance felt too neatly tied up without any angst towards the end like hello? where was the I'll-do-anything-to-be-with-you-forever? And tell me why it was only plain acceptance, like aight-cool-we-can't-be-together? huh.
- ~ -
3.78 / 5✩
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘙𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘰𝘮 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
June 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing for the eARC for this book.
TLDR: if you’re a fan of Dawson’s Creek or Full House, this book is perfect for you
Spice: 🌶️.5/5
This was a quick and easy but in all honestly I was pretty confused by the premise in the beginning. I don’t think I was expecting the storyline to be so centered around a TV show and not sure this should be marketed as a second chance romance considering the outcome.
Pretty quickly on we’re thrust into the fictional TV series, Carson’s Cove, and honestly, the show felt a bit childish. There was really no intro into the premise and switches from real life to fake seemingly out of nowhere. If you’re a fan of Dawson’s Creek, or honestly even Full House, you will be a fan of this because the show is a mix of that with almost too wholesome, borderline eerie, vibes with cliche life lessons.
The plot was pretty predictable and there are really no surprises or frills but hones in the life lesson that people are supposed to change and grow from who they were when they were younger. (Told you it’s cliche)
It took me a while to get into the book because it felt like the entire beginning/middle was just telling us what the fictional TV show Carson’s Cove was about and I couldn’t fully get into it until about 65% of the way in where the MC was finally realizing her role was not the same as the fictional character she was portraying. The magical realism portion still didn’t make much sense to me at the end and was really never explained.
Overall I thought the book was fine, I didn’t love it or hate it, but by the end I definitely liked it more than I anticipated, I just wish it didn’t take so long to get to a point from where the author was just telling instead of showing. After a while the TV show premise did start to grow on me and I did start really enjoying the fake characters and the character growth of the FMC.
TLDR: if you’re a fan of Dawson’s Creek or Full House, this book is perfect for you
Spice: 🌶️.5/5
This was a quick and easy but in all honestly I was pretty confused by the premise in the beginning. I don’t think I was expecting the storyline to be so centered around a TV show and not sure this should be marketed as a second chance romance considering the outcome.
Pretty quickly on we’re thrust into the fictional TV series, Carson’s Cove, and honestly, the show felt a bit childish. There was really no intro into the premise and switches from real life to fake seemingly out of nowhere. If you’re a fan of Dawson’s Creek, or honestly even Full House, you will be a fan of this because the show is a mix of that with almost too wholesome, borderline eerie, vibes with cliche life lessons.
The plot was pretty predictable and there are really no surprises or frills but hones in the life lesson that people are supposed to change and grow from who they were when they were younger. (Told you it’s cliche)
It took me a while to get into the book because it felt like the entire beginning/middle was just telling us what the fictional TV show Carson’s Cove was about and I couldn’t fully get into it until about 65% of the way in where the MC was finally realizing her role was not the same as the fictional character she was portraying. The magical realism portion still didn’t make much sense to me at the end and was really never explained.
Overall I thought the book was fine, I didn’t love it or hate it, but by the end I definitely liked it more than I anticipated, I just wish it didn’t take so long to get to a point from where the author was just telling instead of showing. After a while the TV show premise did start to grow on me and I did start really enjoying the fake characters and the character growth of the FMC.
November 5, 2024
"You can't start the next chapter of your life if you keep rewatching the old one"
I don’t know what it is about cheese little rom coms but I’m a SUCKER for it. I thought this tale of making a wish and being transported into your old fave TV show was different than what I’ve read before. I just enjoyed it the entire time so I’m rating it by the feels it gave me. It made me smile almost the whole book. Just a feel good hug.
I don’t know what it is about cheese little rom coms but I’m a SUCKER for it. I thought this tale of making a wish and being transported into your old fave TV show was different than what I’ve read before. I just enjoyed it the entire time so I’m rating it by the feels it gave me. It made me smile almost the whole book. Just a feel good hug.
October 8, 2024
So cute and nostalgic. I loved all the TV magic that was woven into the story. It was giving me all the classic teen drama vibes and I ate up every second of it. The romance at the heart was okay - not quite as swoony as the iconic couples they're referencing but enjoyable. If you also grew up on the classic CW (and sometimes pre CW) teen dramas of the early and mid '00s, you won't want to miss this.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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