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Bananapants
Estranged childhood friends unexpectedly reunite under bizarre circumstances and bicker their way to love in this bonkers romantic comedy.
Ava Archer misses her best childhood friend most especially during the month of April. Ask any tax attorney, it's a lonely, grueling time of year. Luckily, Ava has just received a surprising and delectably absurd offer from her posh doppelgänger at work. She must pretend to be the aforementioned posh co-worker for one night at an extremely fancy party; a party so fancy, there exists absolutely no chance anyone will recognize her or suspect her ruse...
Desmond (Des) Sullivan is a thief. And not the heart-of-gold kind. He’s the steal-from-the-rich-and-give-to-the-also-rich-so-he-can-get-paid kind. He does, however, have one firm rule never steal what the target can’t afford to lose. After a brutal falling out with his father, Desmond hasn’t returned to Chicago in over ten years. But when a good friend is swindled and something priceless is stolen, Desmond must return home, both as himself and his thieving alter ego. Infiltrate a dangerous secret society of the world's most elite billionaires while leveraging his estranged father’s resources and not blowing his cover? Sure. No problem. Or it wouldn’t be a problem if Ava Archer hadn’t just walked into the room, wearing a ridiculous wig, speaking with a preposterous accent, and pretending (badly) to be someone she’s not.
Bananapants is a full-length, contemporary romantic comedy filled with hijinks and shenanigans. It can be read as a standalone, but the parents of the main characters will be familiar to anyone who has read the Knitting in the City series.
Ava Archer misses her best childhood friend most especially during the month of April. Ask any tax attorney, it's a lonely, grueling time of year. Luckily, Ava has just received a surprising and delectably absurd offer from her posh doppelgänger at work. She must pretend to be the aforementioned posh co-worker for one night at an extremely fancy party; a party so fancy, there exists absolutely no chance anyone will recognize her or suspect her ruse...
Desmond (Des) Sullivan is a thief. And not the heart-of-gold kind. He’s the steal-from-the-rich-and-give-to-the-also-rich-so-he-can-get-paid kind. He does, however, have one firm rule never steal what the target can’t afford to lose. After a brutal falling out with his father, Desmond hasn’t returned to Chicago in over ten years. But when a good friend is swindled and something priceless is stolen, Desmond must return home, both as himself and his thieving alter ego. Infiltrate a dangerous secret society of the world's most elite billionaires while leveraging his estranged father’s resources and not blowing his cover? Sure. No problem. Or it wouldn’t be a problem if Ava Archer hadn’t just walked into the room, wearing a ridiculous wig, speaking with a preposterous accent, and pretending (badly) to be someone she’s not.
Bananapants is a full-length, contemporary romantic comedy filled with hijinks and shenanigans. It can be read as a standalone, but the parents of the main characters will be familiar to anyone who has read the Knitting in the City series.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2024
1513 people are currently reading
24448 people want to read
About the author
Penny Reid
92 books22.4k followersSign up for the newsletter of awesome: www.pennyreid.ninja/newsletter
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
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Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
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August 6, 2024
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🍌Blurb🍌
Estranged childhood friends unexpectedly reunite under bizarre circumstances and bicker their way to love in this bonkers romantic comedy.
Ava Archer misses her best childhood friend most especially during the month of April. Ask any tax attorney, it's a lonely, grueling time of year. Luckily, Ava has just received a surprising and delectably absurd offer from her posh doppelgänger at work. She must pretend to be the aforementioned posh co-worker for one night at an extremely fancy party; a party so fancy, there exists absolutely no chance anyone will recognize her or suspect her ruse. . .
Desmond (Des) Sullivan is a thief. And not the heart-of-gold kind. He’s the steal-from-the-rich-and-give-to-the-also-rich-so-he-can-get-paid kind. He does, however, have one firm rule: never steal what the target can’t afford to lose. After a brutal falling out with his father, Desmond hasn’t returned to Chicago in over ten years. But when a good friend is swindled and something priceless is stolen, Desmond must return home, both as himself and his thieving alter ego.
Infiltrate a dangerous secret society of the world's most elite billionaires while leveraging his estranged father’s resources and not blowing his cover? Sure. No problem. Or it wouldn’t be a problem if Ava Archer hadn’t just walked into the room, wearing a ridiculous wig, speaking with a preposterous accent, and pretending (badly) to be someone she’s not.
'Bananapants' is a full-length, contemporary romantic comedy filled with hijinks and shenanigans. It can be read as a standalone, but the parents of the main characters will be familiar to anyone who has read the Knitting in the City series.
January 24, 2025
this was a letdown. like the many others reviewing this, i'm not new to penny's writing. so i expect some quirks and normally it doesn't affect my reading experience.
but this was just odd? i felt like i was supposed to have knowledge of this world and these characters before picking up the book. lots of relationships that i was expected to know.
and the mental health rep was very heavy handed. it wasn't necessarily inaccurate, it was just... a lot. there wasn't enough room for the romance to grow. oh and the plot was silly too. ugh.
not rating because i don't know what the hell i'd give this.
but this was just odd? i felt like i was supposed to have knowledge of this world and these characters before picking up the book. lots of relationships that i was expected to know.
and the mental health rep was very heavy handed. it wasn't necessarily inaccurate, it was just... a lot. there wasn't enough room for the romance to grow. oh and the plot was silly too. ugh.
not rating because i don't know what the hell i'd give this.
August 6, 2024
4.25 stars
Penny Reid always makes me laugh and smile when I read her books and Bananapants was no exception. This book was loads of fun, but also dealt with more serious subject matter. I thought it was so well done. The writing, the storyline, the characters were all wonderful. Ava and Desmond belonged together and even though their path wasn't always smooth, it worked out.
One of my favorite things about this book was getting to see so many of my beloved characters from Penny's 'Knitting in the City' series. I have such a soft spot for those books. This can definitely be read as a stand-alone if you haven't read them, but if you have, you're in for a treat.
There is some action, emotion, and of course romance. It's a well rounded story with great banter. Ava and Des love each other so much and I felt like the mental health depiction was great. You can tell it came from a place of knowledge and experience. Overall, I adored this one!
Penny Reid always makes me laugh and smile when I read her books and Bananapants was no exception. This book was loads of fun, but also dealt with more serious subject matter. I thought it was so well done. The writing, the storyline, the characters were all wonderful. Ava and Desmond belonged together and even though their path wasn't always smooth, it worked out.
One of my favorite things about this book was getting to see so many of my beloved characters from Penny's 'Knitting in the City' series. I have such a soft spot for those books. This can definitely be read as a stand-alone if you haven't read them, but if you have, you're in for a treat.
There is some action, emotion, and of course romance. It's a well rounded story with great banter. Ava and Des love each other so much and I felt like the mental health depiction was great. You can tell it came from a place of knowledge and experience. Overall, I adored this one!
August 7, 2024
Having a character with bipolar disorder did not bother me. I feel as though it was treated with respect, and not shyed away from the harsher realities.
That being said….I’m disappointed. I love Penny Reid but this did not live up to her usual standards. The story felt a little all over the place and I didn’t love the characters.
(These are my notes while reading - what affected me the most)
I absolutely loathed the characterization of Quinn. Yes, he would absolutely hate the fact that his son is a professional thief - but being a bad dad during the bipolar diagnosis??? After everything he went through and all Janie taught him?? Absolutely not. And I know these aren’t my characters, but it feels like such a betrayal that she made Quinn seem like a bad father. That’s why I almost didn’t read this - reading the blurb that says Desmond hasn’t talked to his father in ten years? After Quinn himself experienced being cut off from his parents? No. Screw that. Hated his characterization.
And you know what else! I can’t believe Janie would be okay with her sons career. Especially given how much she encouraged Quinn to step away from a similar lifestyle!! It feels like Reid went through such pains to make it clear that a “criminal lifestyle is wrong” in Quinn & Janie’s book but then turned that on its head because Desmond is bipolar and supposedly that’s the only thing he can do in life? What about working with his father? Who works with security and sometimes exposing criminals??
I was really liking up to about 50% (minus the Quinn parts I’ve already discussed) and then the “we’ll teach each other” scene came around.
Don’t like the trope where they’ve both been hung up on people but the woman has stayed a virgin and the man had slept with lots of women….don’t like it at all. Especially here when they both seemed very hung up on their past together - and obviously he had no intention initially of coming back into her life - but still don’t like it. Not saying there’s anything wrong with staying or not staying a virgin, just this specific circumstance.
The framing of it “we’ll be each others firsts” felt like it was trying to make amends for this - trying to put dating and sex on the same emotional level (and for a long term relationship I would agree) but sex is much more intimate than dozens of first dates so it didn’t work.
It dropped down to a three star for me when they agreed to “teach each other” I can see a miscommunication coming and it felt….weird? Idk how to describe it, but it felt callous - even though the characters obviously did not intend it to be. “But I wasn’t the thought police, how Ava had interpreted my words was up to her.” BIGGEST EYE ROLL EVER. I hate the “this relationship has a time limit” trope.
It was one of the worst lead ins to a sex scene I’ve ever read. I pretty much skimmed the sex scene.
This book honestly reads like they’re teenagers. They don’t feel mature or fully developed despite all the “PC” stuff (and I swear I don’t mean that it a bad way, it’s just the only phrasing I can think of!) for example the five sentence long sex Ed talk “don’t ever let a dick near you without a condom” like oh my gosh I get it you’re practicing safe sex, you don’t need to explain the reasoning behind it! Or the comment on her dad getting mad over another guy “asking permission” to propose because that’s sexist - I don’t need that constant proof that you’re forward thinking characters. It feels repetitive and almost like Reid is covering her bases so no one can accuse her of being sexist or not for equality and modern thinking.
I don’t know exactly when it dropped to a two star read, but everything I’ve already mentioned definitely plays a part.
And maybe him cutting out of her life was the right decision - and I agree because yes one person can’t be your lifeline - but there is no reason to be cruel about it and I feel like she never really got her apology from him for that.
That being said….I’m disappointed. I love Penny Reid but this did not live up to her usual standards. The story felt a little all over the place and I didn’t love the characters.
(These are my notes while reading - what affected me the most)
I absolutely loathed the characterization of Quinn. Yes, he would absolutely hate the fact that his son is a professional thief - but being a bad dad during the bipolar diagnosis??? After everything he went through and all Janie taught him?? Absolutely not. And I know these aren’t my characters, but it feels like such a betrayal that she made Quinn seem like a bad father. That’s why I almost didn’t read this - reading the blurb that says Desmond hasn’t talked to his father in ten years? After Quinn himself experienced being cut off from his parents? No. Screw that. Hated his characterization.
And you know what else! I can’t believe Janie would be okay with her sons career. Especially given how much she encouraged Quinn to step away from a similar lifestyle!! It feels like Reid went through such pains to make it clear that a “criminal lifestyle is wrong” in Quinn & Janie’s book but then turned that on its head because Desmond is bipolar and supposedly that’s the only thing he can do in life? What about working with his father? Who works with security and sometimes exposing criminals??
I was really liking up to about 50% (minus the Quinn parts I’ve already discussed) and then the “we’ll teach each other” scene came around.
Don’t like the trope where they’ve both been hung up on people but the woman has stayed a virgin and the man had slept with lots of women….don’t like it at all. Especially here when they both seemed very hung up on their past together - and obviously he had no intention initially of coming back into her life - but still don’t like it. Not saying there’s anything wrong with staying or not staying a virgin, just this specific circumstance.
The framing of it “we’ll be each others firsts” felt like it was trying to make amends for this - trying to put dating and sex on the same emotional level (and for a long term relationship I would agree) but sex is much more intimate than dozens of first dates so it didn’t work.
It dropped down to a three star for me when they agreed to “teach each other” I can see a miscommunication coming and it felt….weird? Idk how to describe it, but it felt callous - even though the characters obviously did not intend it to be. “But I wasn’t the thought police, how Ava had interpreted my words was up to her.” BIGGEST EYE ROLL EVER. I hate the “this relationship has a time limit” trope.
It was one of the worst lead ins to a sex scene I’ve ever read. I pretty much skimmed the sex scene.
This book honestly reads like they’re teenagers. They don’t feel mature or fully developed despite all the “PC” stuff (and I swear I don’t mean that it a bad way, it’s just the only phrasing I can think of!) for example the five sentence long sex Ed talk “don’t ever let a dick near you without a condom” like oh my gosh I get it you’re practicing safe sex, you don’t need to explain the reasoning behind it! Or the comment on her dad getting mad over another guy “asking permission” to propose because that’s sexist - I don’t need that constant proof that you’re forward thinking characters. It feels repetitive and almost like Reid is covering her bases so no one can accuse her of being sexist or not for equality and modern thinking.
I don’t know exactly when it dropped to a two star read, but everything I’ve already mentioned definitely plays a part.
And maybe him cutting out of her life was the right decision - and I agree because yes one person can’t be your lifeline - but there is no reason to be cruel about it and I feel like she never really got her apology from him for that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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June 25, 2024This is book 8 in the Knitting in the City series and is a Kickstarter exclusive book (for the 10-year anniversary of the series).
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
eBooks were sent to backers June 2024.
It cannot be acquired or purchased outside of the Knitting in the City kickstarter.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
eBooks were sent to backers June 2024.
It cannot be acquired or purchased outside of the Knitting in the City kickstarter.
June 25, 2024
Strong, well written characters will win my heart over every single time. Men are usually well written, but women usually fall short or their strength is cheapened in favor of showing how big and strong and tough the man is. Thank goodness Ava remained a strong women as she also realized she is Desmond’s perfect coconspirator.
This book was everything I hoped it would be and more. I forgot about Penny’s ability to write real pain into the pages. A few of the other Knitting in the City (KitC) books are my comfort reads- so even though they address difficult subjects, I’ve hardened to the pain because I’ve read them so much. But reading this brand new gem reminded me that she can write about how mental health affects relationships and situations in a way that feels so REAL. Some of the scenes with Quinn and Desmond broke my entire heart. She has matured as an author over time, and to read this quality of writing for Janie/Quinn and Fiona/Greg’s kids’ love story was just…freaking perfect. And to be clear - this was still a romantic comedy. Plenty of funny scenes happened alongside the hard ones. I did have to take a break around 42-44% though because it was hurting my heart.
Penny also sprinkled teasers in there that seem like she might be open to writing stories for Desmond’s sister and Ava’s siblings too- and I really hope we get to see those.
Getting to see older versions of the KitC crew also made me so happy- along with all the callbacks to things that happened in the books that started it all. My personal favorite was “a veritable cornucopia of x” - Nico uses a similar line to that in Friends Without Benefits and I’ve always loved that phrase- just having it in there told me that Ava probably spent time around Nico.
The ending did feel a little abrupt, but all of the plot drivers were resolved, so I think I just wasn’t ready to leave the KitC world again yet. Here’s to hoping for more Gen 2 books! And thank you, Penny! We don’t deserve you, and are so lucky to have you!!!
This book was everything I hoped it would be and more. I forgot about Penny’s ability to write real pain into the pages. A few of the other Knitting in the City (KitC) books are my comfort reads- so even though they address difficult subjects, I’ve hardened to the pain because I’ve read them so much. But reading this brand new gem reminded me that she can write about how mental health affects relationships and situations in a way that feels so REAL. Some of the scenes with Quinn and Desmond broke my entire heart. She has matured as an author over time, and to read this quality of writing for Janie/Quinn and Fiona/Greg’s kids’ love story was just…freaking perfect. And to be clear - this was still a romantic comedy. Plenty of funny scenes happened alongside the hard ones. I did have to take a break around 42-44% though because it was hurting my heart.
Penny also sprinkled teasers in there that seem like she might be open to writing stories for Desmond’s sister and Ava’s siblings too- and I really hope we get to see those.
Getting to see older versions of the KitC crew also made me so happy- along with all the callbacks to things that happened in the books that started it all. My personal favorite was “a veritable cornucopia of x” - Nico uses a similar line to that in Friends Without Benefits and I’ve always loved that phrase- just having it in there told me that Ava probably spent time around Nico.
The ending did feel a little abrupt, but all of the plot drivers were resolved, so I think I just wasn’t ready to leave the KitC world again yet. Here’s to hoping for more Gen 2 books! And thank you, Penny! We don’t deserve you, and are so lucky to have you!!!
August 7, 2024
2.5 stars. This was all over the place. Desmond and Ava read like they are 18, not 25. Ava has completed law school but she calls sex “playing the piccolo?” Actually Desmond seems more mature, but I think that’s a pretty solid representation of someone went through hell before finding a way to manage his mental health. Ava was incredibly childish, and not because she quoted movies all the time. She doesn’t communicate well and things that were clearly supposed to make her sound quirky made her sound deranged. And the pop culture references. My god. It’s like Penny Reid read an Ali Hazelwood book and said “I bet I can make even more references for millennials!”
While Reid said this could be read without reading the previous series, I don’t see it. It would be confusing to track all the aunts and uncles without background. And I’m baffled about Quinn’s actions. I could understand tension, but not speaking to his son for 10 years and thinking he was faking his diagnosis for attention for so many years? I cannot imagine Jamie staying around if he was like that. And why was everyone pushing Ava and Des together at the bbq, the first event Des had attended in TEN years??? No questions, just making unveiled attempts to match make? So odd.
I already struggle with stories where characters are still in love with each 10 years later, with no contact in between. Des had definitely changed. Ava? Not so much. It also pissed me off he slept with a bunch of women and she remained a virgin, even though they both had feelings. I get that Ava is demisexual, but it’s such a weird, internalized misogynist trend in romance.
The villain arc was strange and hastily tied up.
The bipolar rep was great. I loved that he had it managed, but that didn’t mean every day was great. I appreciated Reid showing his bad days too. I am glad this wasn’t one of those “love cures mental illness” stories.
That said, the epilogue was way too heavy. While I understand the value of Des describing his experience with different aspects of bipolar 1, it was an incredibly long, overly done metaphor that was in out of place in the epilogue. If it needed to be included, I wish it had been after his down days, and not in the place where I expect to see characters being happy.
Overall, if you always love Penny Reid books, you will love this one. If they are hit and miss for you, I’m betting this one is more of a miss.
While Reid said this could be read without reading the previous series, I don’t see it. It would be confusing to track all the aunts and uncles without background. And I’m baffled about Quinn’s actions. I could understand tension, but not speaking to his son for 10 years and thinking he was faking his diagnosis for attention for so many years? I cannot imagine Jamie staying around if he was like that. And why was everyone pushing Ava and Des together at the bbq, the first event Des had attended in TEN years??? No questions, just making unveiled attempts to match make? So odd.
I already struggle with stories where characters are still in love with each 10 years later, with no contact in between. Des had definitely changed. Ava? Not so much. It also pissed me off he slept with a bunch of women and she remained a virgin, even though they both had feelings. I get that Ava is demisexual, but it’s such a weird, internalized misogynist trend in romance.
The villain arc was strange and hastily tied up.
The bipolar rep was great. I loved that he had it managed, but that didn’t mean every day was great. I appreciated Reid showing his bad days too. I am glad this wasn’t one of those “love cures mental illness” stories.
That said, the epilogue was way too heavy. While I understand the value of Des describing his experience with different aspects of bipolar 1, it was an incredibly long, overly done metaphor that was in out of place in the epilogue. If it needed to be included, I wish it had been after his down days, and not in the place where I expect to see characters being happy.
Overall, if you always love Penny Reid books, you will love this one. If they are hit and miss for you, I’m betting this one is more of a miss.
September 13, 2024
...After a brutal falling out with his father, Desmond hasn’t returned to Chicago in over ten years.
why would this be storyline
once upon time i would say "i am a huge fan of penny", well not anymore, and not just with this book but some previous books too.. also, i hate when authors "have to" shit on original characters to write next gen books ...
why would this be storyline
once upon time i would say "i am a huge fan of penny", well not anymore, and not just with this book but some previous books too.. also, i hate when authors "have to" shit on original characters to write next gen books ...
September 2, 2024
4.5 stars
this is another hit from the amazingly talented and all-around awesome Penny Reid. Ava and Desmond's story was everything and so worth the wait. the characters here were so well developed and flawed in the most perfect way, it made Des and Ava more real and just made me love them even more. going back to Chicago and reuniting with the whole Knitting in the City gang and their partners always makes me happy, and if i could pick a fictional world to live in, i know i’d be heading there! 😍❤️
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pre-read:
I CAN'T WAIT
any book written by this woman is a masterpiece 😍
this is another hit from the amazingly talented and all-around awesome Penny Reid. Ava and Desmond's story was everything and so worth the wait. the characters here were so well developed and flawed in the most perfect way, it made Des and Ava more real and just made me love them even more. going back to Chicago and reuniting with the whole Knitting in the City gang and their partners always makes me happy, and if i could pick a fictional world to live in, i know i’d be heading there! 😍❤️
⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆
pre-read:
I CAN'T WAIT
any book written by this woman is a masterpiece 😍
July 14, 2024
Read if you like: Estranged childhood friends, disguises and ruses, heist-themed romances, strong female leads, humor mixed with heartfelt moments, complex family dynamics.
📚 "Bananapants" by Penny Reid is a delightful rollercoaster of a romantic comedy where estranged childhood friends, Ava Archer and Desmond Sullivan, reunite under the most bizarre circumstances. Ava, a tax attorney with a posh doppelgänger at work, is thrust into a wild masquerade, while Desmond, a cunning thief, is on a mission that brings him back to Chicago. Their paths collide at a fancy party, setting off a series of hilarious and heartfelt events that bring them closer.
👨👧 Ava Archer and Desmond Sullivan are a captivating pair. Ava's strength and wit shine through, while Desmond's morally grey but charming persona adds layers to the story. Their dynamic, filled with bickering and banter, is electric and endearing, making their journey from friends to lovers a compelling read.
💞 The romance between Ava and Desmond is both heartwarming and intense. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their journey is filled with humorous and touching moments. Ava's discovery of Des's profession and the reasons behind his abrupt departure during their teenage years is beautifully portrayed, highlighting their compatibility and deep connection.
👧 The side characters add richness to the story, particularly the callbacks to the beloved characters from the Knitting in the City series. Fans will relish the appearances of older versions of Janie/Quinn and Fiona/Greg, along with the tantalizing hints about potential future second gen stories.
✍️ Penny Reid's writing is a masterful blend of humor and emotion. She skillfully addresses complex issues like mental health within relationships, making the characters' struggles feel real and relatable. Her ability to balance comedy with heartfelt moments showcases her growth as an author.
🌟 Overall, "Bananapants" is a perfect mix of hijinks, heartfelt moments, and romance. The story’s pacing is brisk and engaging, though the ending might feel a bit abrupt. Perhaps I just wanted more? However, it wraps up the plot beautifully. This story was perfectly written and was just the right amount of everything you are looking for.
📲 Do you enjoy romantic comedies with a twist of heist adventures? What's your favorite book that blends humor with heart?👇
#BookReview #Bananapants #PennyReid #RomanticComedy #FriendsToLovers #HeistRomance #Bookstagram #MustRead #KnittingInTheCity #BookRecommendations #NewRelease #RomanceBooks #ReadingCommunity #BookAddict #BookLovers
📚 "Bananapants" by Penny Reid is a delightful rollercoaster of a romantic comedy where estranged childhood friends, Ava Archer and Desmond Sullivan, reunite under the most bizarre circumstances. Ava, a tax attorney with a posh doppelgänger at work, is thrust into a wild masquerade, while Desmond, a cunning thief, is on a mission that brings him back to Chicago. Their paths collide at a fancy party, setting off a series of hilarious and heartfelt events that bring them closer.
👨👧 Ava Archer and Desmond Sullivan are a captivating pair. Ava's strength and wit shine through, while Desmond's morally grey but charming persona adds layers to the story. Their dynamic, filled with bickering and banter, is electric and endearing, making their journey from friends to lovers a compelling read.
💞 The romance between Ava and Desmond is both heartwarming and intense. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their journey is filled with humorous and touching moments. Ava's discovery of Des's profession and the reasons behind his abrupt departure during their teenage years is beautifully portrayed, highlighting their compatibility and deep connection.
👧 The side characters add richness to the story, particularly the callbacks to the beloved characters from the Knitting in the City series. Fans will relish the appearances of older versions of Janie/Quinn and Fiona/Greg, along with the tantalizing hints about potential future second gen stories.
✍️ Penny Reid's writing is a masterful blend of humor and emotion. She skillfully addresses complex issues like mental health within relationships, making the characters' struggles feel real and relatable. Her ability to balance comedy with heartfelt moments showcases her growth as an author.
🌟 Overall, "Bananapants" is a perfect mix of hijinks, heartfelt moments, and romance. The story’s pacing is brisk and engaging, though the ending might feel a bit abrupt. Perhaps I just wanted more? However, it wraps up the plot beautifully. This story was perfectly written and was just the right amount of everything you are looking for.
📲 Do you enjoy romantic comedies with a twist of heist adventures? What's your favorite book that blends humor with heart?👇
#BookReview #Bananapants #PennyReid #RomanticComedy #FriendsToLovers #HeistRomance #Bookstagram #MustRead #KnittingInTheCity #BookRecommendations #NewRelease #RomanceBooks #ReadingCommunity #BookAddict #BookLovers
September 11, 2024
Romantic, witty yet with a definite side of uncomfortable realism, this was unusual and satisfying.
I should say I’ve read everything this author has ever written, but some of that reading was ten years ago and so, unsurprisingly, I’ve forgotten some characters, or especially the back stories and character traits of some characters and quite a lot popped up in this which left me feeling a bit adrift at times and wondering if I’d missed something.
I do remember reading Quinn and Janet’s story though and this is about their son Des who (heartbreakingly) has a difficult relationship with his father so, hard as it seemed at first, seeing them navigate that difficult relationship was actually quite uplifting.
The chemistry worked and the smut was glorious, I cannot lie. I’m a little bit tired of extremely naive but impressively intellectual female characters being entirely unaware of their attractiveness or unable to read social signs, but it made sense in the context of this character. The overriding theme of this book was about NV characters, how they come to terms with what they need from themselves and from others. It’s not something I know much about and while it was important to the story, it was laid on quite thickly at times, but I appreciate it was important to understand why the characters behaved as the did.
But there was also some decent jeopardy, with comedy worked in. I chortled to myself whenever Des’s handler, the perpetual snacker Sue was mentioned, munching away noisily as she dispensed her unsolicited life advice to poor Des. That really helped to lift the mood.
I enjoyed this and I’d recommend it to someone looking for a spicy rom com with characters that run deeper than usual.
Thanks to the author for the arc.
I should say I’ve read everything this author has ever written, but some of that reading was ten years ago and so, unsurprisingly, I’ve forgotten some characters, or especially the back stories and character traits of some characters and quite a lot popped up in this which left me feeling a bit adrift at times and wondering if I’d missed something.
I do remember reading Quinn and Janet’s story though and this is about their son Des who (heartbreakingly) has a difficult relationship with his father so, hard as it seemed at first, seeing them navigate that difficult relationship was actually quite uplifting.
The chemistry worked and the smut was glorious, I cannot lie. I’m a little bit tired of extremely naive but impressively intellectual female characters being entirely unaware of their attractiveness or unable to read social signs, but it made sense in the context of this character. The overriding theme of this book was about NV characters, how they come to terms with what they need from themselves and from others. It’s not something I know much about and while it was important to the story, it was laid on quite thickly at times, but I appreciate it was important to understand why the characters behaved as the did.
But there was also some decent jeopardy, with comedy worked in. I chortled to myself whenever Des’s handler, the perpetual snacker Sue was mentioned, munching away noisily as she dispensed her unsolicited life advice to poor Des. That really helped to lift the mood.
I enjoyed this and I’d recommend it to someone looking for a spicy rom com with characters that run deeper than usual.
Thanks to the author for the arc.
September 1, 2024
If, like me, you were introduced to Penny Reid’s romantic comedies through her Knitting in the City series, then you’ll be delighted to know that Bananapants, which features the next generation of the couples in those stories, hits all the same high notes. But it’s not all laughs, as there are some serious mental health conditions faced by the characters, day to day struggles that ground the story even while hijinks ensue. The effect is a story that brought to me to tears, and cheers, and reminded me of why I love Penny Reid’s writing.
Ava Archer, daughter of Fiona and Greg Archer (Happily Ever Ninja) is a tax attorney who still misses her best friend from childhood Desmond Sullivan, son of Janie and Quinn Sullivan (Neanderthal Seeks Human). Just when they’d been on the cusp of a friendship turning into romance as teenagers, Des had abruptly left Chicago and cut off all contact, breaking Ava’s heart.
When a wealthy co-worker who looks very similar to Ava, proposes that Ava take her place at a society party, Ava jumps at the chance to do something wild and crazy to get her out of her funk. After all, there’s no chance anyone there would recognize her.
In the years Des has been gone, he’s become a high-tech thief, helped by his father’s friend Alex and the resources of his estranged father’s security company. For a hefty fee, he’ll rob from the rich and give to the equally rich, usually from people who deserve it in some fashion, and he only steals what his target can afford to lose. Plus, he’ll always do what’s needed to help his friends, including his current mission; a friend has had some technology stolen by a tech billionaire and Des is determined to get it back. It’s why he’s returned to Chicago. Having infiltrated the circle of high society billionaires, the last person he expects to see at a party is Ava, in a wig with a fake accent. And since she’s gotten the attention of the bad guy Des is pursuing who has a stalkerish history with women, he has no choice but to protect her by blowing her cover.
Thus after a ten year hiatus, Des and Ava are back in each other’s circles again, but there is no immediate reconnection. Des is still closed off. Ava’s feelings for him are still complicated by the hurt of his leaving and cutting her out of his life. Their respective parents are thrilled to see them talking to each other, thinking that finally the two will rekindle their friendship and fall in love, as they’d always hoped back in the day. And there’s a stalker billionaire interested in Ava who Des is going to have to take down quicker than he’d expected. Will Des and Ava find their way back to each other on this rocky path to true love?
Whew! Lots of feelings! Yes, it’s a bonkers romantic comedy, with lots of laughs and crazy situations, and danger and action and sexy times and all of the things that make Penny’s books so endearing to her fans. On the more serious side, we find out that Ava struggles with anxiety. More critically, we find out that Desmond has a severe bipolar disorder, one that has been stable for the last few years but is the reason he left Chicago. He’s attempted suicide, he’s on medication, he experiences on page panic attacks, and the portrayal of his character’s struggles is very real and heartfelt (cue the tears on my part, especially his estrangement from his father Quinn who, like many readers, is a fan fave from Neanderthal Seeks Human). When Des left Chicago, and Ava, it was with the realization that even though he cared deeply for Ava, he had to take care of his mental health without any expectations of success from other people, and the only way to do that was to focus on himself and leave her out of the equation. But now, back in Chicago, with his former best friend, and having gotten his mental illness under control, his true feelings for Ava, his love for her, come to the surface and are reignited.
In trying to keep Ava from danger while pursuing his own mission, they spend time together and Ava, even with how badly her heart was broken, can’t resist letting him in again, little by little. And she eventually gets the explanation from him of why he left. Opening up to her heals the rift between them, and Ava decides to take a chance on loving Des again, even with the expectation on her part that he’s still going to leave Chicago in the near future. Steamy scenes ensue and parents get excited about their kids being together (those parts are really funny). But there is still danger and action and other family ties to consider, leading to a very satisfying story conclusion and happy ending for the couple. I don’t know if the author has planned any more glimpses into the lives of the Knitting in the City children but I’ll wholeheartedly wish for more.
This review will also appear at All About Romance : https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
Ava Archer, daughter of Fiona and Greg Archer (Happily Ever Ninja) is a tax attorney who still misses her best friend from childhood Desmond Sullivan, son of Janie and Quinn Sullivan (Neanderthal Seeks Human). Just when they’d been on the cusp of a friendship turning into romance as teenagers, Des had abruptly left Chicago and cut off all contact, breaking Ava’s heart.
When a wealthy co-worker who looks very similar to Ava, proposes that Ava take her place at a society party, Ava jumps at the chance to do something wild and crazy to get her out of her funk. After all, there’s no chance anyone there would recognize her.
In the years Des has been gone, he’s become a high-tech thief, helped by his father’s friend Alex and the resources of his estranged father’s security company. For a hefty fee, he’ll rob from the rich and give to the equally rich, usually from people who deserve it in some fashion, and he only steals what his target can afford to lose. Plus, he’ll always do what’s needed to help his friends, including his current mission; a friend has had some technology stolen by a tech billionaire and Des is determined to get it back. It’s why he’s returned to Chicago. Having infiltrated the circle of high society billionaires, the last person he expects to see at a party is Ava, in a wig with a fake accent. And since she’s gotten the attention of the bad guy Des is pursuing who has a stalkerish history with women, he has no choice but to protect her by blowing her cover.
Thus after a ten year hiatus, Des and Ava are back in each other’s circles again, but there is no immediate reconnection. Des is still closed off. Ava’s feelings for him are still complicated by the hurt of his leaving and cutting her out of his life. Their respective parents are thrilled to see them talking to each other, thinking that finally the two will rekindle their friendship and fall in love, as they’d always hoped back in the day. And there’s a stalker billionaire interested in Ava who Des is going to have to take down quicker than he’d expected. Will Des and Ava find their way back to each other on this rocky path to true love?
Whew! Lots of feelings! Yes, it’s a bonkers romantic comedy, with lots of laughs and crazy situations, and danger and action and sexy times and all of the things that make Penny’s books so endearing to her fans. On the more serious side, we find out that Ava struggles with anxiety. More critically, we find out that Desmond has a severe bipolar disorder, one that has been stable for the last few years but is the reason he left Chicago. He’s attempted suicide, he’s on medication, he experiences on page panic attacks, and the portrayal of his character’s struggles is very real and heartfelt (cue the tears on my part, especially his estrangement from his father Quinn who, like many readers, is a fan fave from Neanderthal Seeks Human). When Des left Chicago, and Ava, it was with the realization that even though he cared deeply for Ava, he had to take care of his mental health without any expectations of success from other people, and the only way to do that was to focus on himself and leave her out of the equation. But now, back in Chicago, with his former best friend, and having gotten his mental illness under control, his true feelings for Ava, his love for her, come to the surface and are reignited.
In trying to keep Ava from danger while pursuing his own mission, they spend time together and Ava, even with how badly her heart was broken, can’t resist letting him in again, little by little. And she eventually gets the explanation from him of why he left. Opening up to her heals the rift between them, and Ava decides to take a chance on loving Des again, even with the expectation on her part that he’s still going to leave Chicago in the near future. Steamy scenes ensue and parents get excited about their kids being together (those parts are really funny). But there is still danger and action and other family ties to consider, leading to a very satisfying story conclusion and happy ending for the couple. I don’t know if the author has planned any more glimpses into the lives of the Knitting in the City children but I’ll wholeheartedly wish for more.
This review will also appear at All About Romance : https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
January 12, 2025
Absolutely wonderful!
So many things about this book resonated with me. Most of all the whole point that love stories are for everyone. Everyone. It’s hard to have a mental disorder, but that isn’t your defining characteristic. You deserve a love story, just like EVERYONE deserves a love story. Thank you Penny!! I loved both versions 🥰
So many things about this book resonated with me. Most of all the whole point that love stories are for everyone. Everyone. It’s hard to have a mental disorder, but that isn’t your defining characteristic. You deserve a love story, just like EVERYONE deserves a love story. Thank you Penny!! I loved both versions 🥰
July 20, 2024
This book is a reflection of exactly why I love Penny’s books. It was absolutely incredible. The depth that she puts into these characters and makes them come to life blows my mind.
I’m going to try to articulate just how amazing this book was, it won’t do it justice, but I will try.
The joy I got out of this book was insurmountable. It made me laugh and cackle and kick my feet and fall in love with these characters, but also I felt their struggles and pain and felt like I truly understood them. My heart was cracked open. I got frustrated. I swooned. I teared up and just about everything else in between.
Des is so incredible. He has bipolar and ADHD (and for me I found this so insightful because I have a sister who has both of these things and it helped me understand her a bit better.) it hurt my heart when he struggled, but seeing his strength and support with how he gets through was amazing. And I loved the way he loved Ava. I loved the way he loved himself. I loved his growth individually and others.
Ava is quirky and hilarious and sometimes oblivious and just completely relatable. But also she had her own struggles and I loved seeing her want to be and do better for herself.
Des and Ava together were everything. Absolutely perfect for each other. Childhood friends to estranged friends? to lovers, is that a trope? Haha with a bunch of others. I love how they end up together. It’s a bit of a slow burn, but damn is it worth it. WORTH IT 😮💨😮💨😮💨
Have I said how much I loved them? Because I do. So much. I didn’t want this book to ever end.
If you’ve read the Knitting in the City series this book will be like a big warm hug with nostalgia sprinkled in there. It will also break your heart with family things, but you get put back together.
If you haven’t read it, absolutely no worries at all as it is a complete standalone, but fair warning it will probably make you want to read the series and by fault the one connected to one of the books in it and you’ll just spiral and need to read all of her books. Which I highly recommend anyway, because her books are an experience that you need to have.
Also please please read that author’s note.
I’m going to try to articulate just how amazing this book was, it won’t do it justice, but I will try.
The joy I got out of this book was insurmountable. It made me laugh and cackle and kick my feet and fall in love with these characters, but also I felt their struggles and pain and felt like I truly understood them. My heart was cracked open. I got frustrated. I swooned. I teared up and just about everything else in between.
Des is so incredible. He has bipolar and ADHD (and for me I found this so insightful because I have a sister who has both of these things and it helped me understand her a bit better.) it hurt my heart when he struggled, but seeing his strength and support with how he gets through was amazing. And I loved the way he loved Ava. I loved the way he loved himself. I loved his growth individually and others.
Ava is quirky and hilarious and sometimes oblivious and just completely relatable. But also she had her own struggles and I loved seeing her want to be and do better for herself.
Des and Ava together were everything. Absolutely perfect for each other. Childhood friends to estranged friends? to lovers, is that a trope? Haha with a bunch of others. I love how they end up together. It’s a bit of a slow burn, but damn is it worth it. WORTH IT 😮💨😮💨😮💨
Have I said how much I loved them? Because I do. So much. I didn’t want this book to ever end.
If you’ve read the Knitting in the City series this book will be like a big warm hug with nostalgia sprinkled in there. It will also break your heart with family things, but you get put back together.
If you haven’t read it, absolutely no worries at all as it is a complete standalone, but fair warning it will probably make you want to read the series and by fault the one connected to one of the books in it and you’ll just spiral and need to read all of her books. Which I highly recommend anyway, because her books are an experience that you need to have.
Also please please read that author’s note.
October 19, 2024
I am a licensed professional counselor and the mental health representation in this book is the best I have read! Also, I just really loved it, laughed so many times and loved the dynamics between the characters. Very thoughtful.
Read
August 9, 2024DFN all I’m going to say is she’s a virgin and he’s not (been with LOTS of ow) 🙄. So typical!!
July 6, 2024
Wow! So glad I bought the KITC kickstarter book set! I LOVED this book so much! This special edition for the KITC fans was worth every penny spent! Ava and Desmond's story was the chef's kiss for this series. My only problem is now I want more! Thank you, Penny Reid!!! 5 HUGE STARS! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 24, 2024
Low on romance and heavy on the ‘issues’... 3 stars.
Unpopular opinion, I know.
Penny Reid used to be one of my all-time favourite authors. Her books were an instant buy for me. I didn’t even need to read the blurb. If her name was on the cover, I knew it’d be, at worst, a solid 4-star read, and at best, a 5++++ favourite I’d re-read and cherish.
I’m not ashamed to admit I used to buy her books in not just one but in three different formats. I made sure I had signed hardcopies of my favourites, plus the Kindle versions, and the audiobooks as well! (Yeah, I know, it sounds like overkill, but I like to be able to read on the go which means sometimes it's while I'm waiting at the doctor's office (Kindle), sometimes while driving (audio) and sometimes it's while I'm curled up on the couch with a coffee (hardcopy). Also, unless I have a hardcopy, I never feel like I actually own it, you know? I'm always waiting for the digital/audio versions to disappear once my subscription stalls, or for the platform to change the cover or the version, or for the tech-apocalypse to arrive causing access to anything online to be erased forever).
Anyway, I fell in love with Penny Reid's books when Neanderthal seeks Human came out and have been reading her books ever since. But somewhere towards the second half of The Winston Bros series, around the tail end of Knitting in the City, and more recently with Ten Things , all the different ‘Folks’ and now Bananapants, they’ve become a hard slog.
It feels like I’m being lectured. Or worse, subjected to long monologues and personal rants on issues only loosely tied to the actual plot.
It’s frustrating because I LOVED her early work. Penny was the Quirky Romance Queen, after all. But lately, the romance seems rushed, forced, or just a secondary plotline to the ‘hook’ of the book.
Penny Reid is brilliant at setting up a scenario, and she writes male dialogue exceptionally well. Bananapants is no exception. But, like her more recent titles, this is low on romance and heavy on ‘issues’. Mental health and well-being themes dominate any chance of romance-inspired laughs, slow-burn chemistry, or the kind of witty banter that usually keeps me turning pages well into the night.
I’m sad to say that after the last four books have consistently been disappointing (i.e. good but not great), Penny Reid’s books are no longer an instant buy for me.
I’ll always love her early work (Moses, Cletus, Alex, Greg, Matt... all soooo good!) but something’s shifted in her newer books. They seem to have an agenda now, and I find myself rolling my eyes and giving up entirely.
As for Bananapants... there’s not much to it. The main characters are the kids of characters from earlier books, and it turns out my most loved characters are rubbish parents. Sigh. The book is mostly about bipolar disorder and abandonment issues, with a bit of political corruption and some ridiculous kidnapping thrown in to move the thin plot along.
I recommend that you give it a miss.
But this is definitely an unpopular opinion. Judging by the other reviews, I’m clearly in the minority here. Penny’s fan base is still loyal and strong, and if you’re a fan of her recent work, you’ll likely enjoy this one too.
Unpopular opinion, I know.
Penny Reid used to be one of my all-time favourite authors. Her books were an instant buy for me. I didn’t even need to read the blurb. If her name was on the cover, I knew it’d be, at worst, a solid 4-star read, and at best, a 5++++ favourite I’d re-read and cherish.
I’m not ashamed to admit I used to buy her books in not just one but in three different formats. I made sure I had signed hardcopies of my favourites, plus the Kindle versions, and the audiobooks as well! (Yeah, I know, it sounds like overkill, but I like to be able to read on the go which means sometimes it's while I'm waiting at the doctor's office (Kindle), sometimes while driving (audio) and sometimes it's while I'm curled up on the couch with a coffee (hardcopy). Also, unless I have a hardcopy, I never feel like I actually own it, you know? I'm always waiting for the digital/audio versions to disappear once my subscription stalls, or for the platform to change the cover or the version, or for the tech-apocalypse to arrive causing access to anything online to be erased forever).
Anyway, I fell in love with Penny Reid's books when Neanderthal seeks Human came out and have been reading her books ever since. But somewhere towards the second half of The Winston Bros series, around the tail end of Knitting in the City, and more recently with Ten Things , all the different ‘Folks’ and now Bananapants, they’ve become a hard slog.
It feels like I’m being lectured. Or worse, subjected to long monologues and personal rants on issues only loosely tied to the actual plot.
It’s frustrating because I LOVED her early work. Penny was the Quirky Romance Queen, after all. But lately, the romance seems rushed, forced, or just a secondary plotline to the ‘hook’ of the book.
Penny Reid is brilliant at setting up a scenario, and she writes male dialogue exceptionally well. Bananapants is no exception. But, like her more recent titles, this is low on romance and heavy on ‘issues’. Mental health and well-being themes dominate any chance of romance-inspired laughs, slow-burn chemistry, or the kind of witty banter that usually keeps me turning pages well into the night.
I’m sad to say that after the last four books have consistently been disappointing (i.e. good but not great), Penny Reid’s books are no longer an instant buy for me.
I’ll always love her early work (Moses, Cletus, Alex, Greg, Matt... all soooo good!) but something’s shifted in her newer books. They seem to have an agenda now, and I find myself rolling my eyes and giving up entirely.
As for Bananapants... there’s not much to it. The main characters are the kids of characters from earlier books, and it turns out my most loved characters are rubbish parents. Sigh. The book is mostly about bipolar disorder and abandonment issues, with a bit of political corruption and some ridiculous kidnapping thrown in to move the thin plot along.
I recommend that you give it a miss.
But this is definitely an unpopular opinion. Judging by the other reviews, I’m clearly in the minority here. Penny’s fan base is still loyal and strong, and if you’re a fan of her recent work, you’ll likely enjoy this one too.
June 17, 2025
Okay wtf, Penny actually brought me to tears. Some of the best mental health representation I’ve read.
August 7, 2024
This story was like a hug in a book… it gave me everything I love!
I got to catch up with old friends, I genuinely LOLd, I also cried and yet again, because it’s a Penny book I learned something new.
I adored Ava and Desmond, truly well developed characters that you feel you know and we got to se all aspects of their relationship - the good, the bad and the sad. For a romantic comedy this story packs an emotional punch.
I really hope there’s lots more to come from these second generation characters, I’m invested in seeing their HEAs.
I received an arc of this book.
I got to catch up with old friends, I genuinely LOLd, I also cried and yet again, because it’s a Penny book I learned something new.
I adored Ava and Desmond, truly well developed characters that you feel you know and we got to se all aspects of their relationship - the good, the bad and the sad. For a romantic comedy this story packs an emotional punch.
I really hope there’s lots more to come from these second generation characters, I’m invested in seeing their HEAs.
I received an arc of this book.
July 23, 2024
Desmond has returned to Chicago after 10 years for a job. He is a thief and needs to get something back for a friend. He left when he was 15 to learn to manage his mental health. He left his best friend, Ava, behind. She was heartbroken and hadn’t ever understood why. Feeling abandoned and needing a change she goes to an event playing the part of a coworker with a ridiculous accent and wig. Desmond immediately recognizes her and needs to get her away from a dangerous man, blowing her cover. They are unexpectedly reunited and begin to find their way back to each other again.
Ava and Desmond are captivating. I was intrigued by both of them from the beginning. The banter between these two was spot on, and they were able to match wits so well. There is an intensity in their romance, as they learn to trust each other and discover the love that has always been present.
The discussion of mental illness and its impact was done so well. Penny Reid handled the intricacies of mental health and its impact on everyone in such a true and honest way.
There were a lot of side characters, and they were characters from both the Knitting in the City and Winston Brothers series. We get to learn where these relationships led and meet Janie/Quinn and Fiona/Greg’s children. Though this is part of the story, it is not necessary to read any previous series for this book.
Bananapants was a perfect blend of heart and humour capturing me from the first moment. I loved Ava and Desmond so much and thought their story was messy and beautiful. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Ava and Desmond are captivating. I was intrigued by both of them from the beginning. The banter between these two was spot on, and they were able to match wits so well. There is an intensity in their romance, as they learn to trust each other and discover the love that has always been present.
The discussion of mental illness and its impact was done so well. Penny Reid handled the intricacies of mental health and its impact on everyone in such a true and honest way.
There were a lot of side characters, and they were characters from both the Knitting in the City and Winston Brothers series. We get to learn where these relationships led and meet Janie/Quinn and Fiona/Greg’s children. Though this is part of the story, it is not necessary to read any previous series for this book.
Bananapants was a perfect blend of heart and humour capturing me from the first moment. I loved Ava and Desmond so much and thought their story was messy and beautiful. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
August 1, 2024
If you love:
- Romantic comedies
- Second-chance and friends-to-lovers romances
- Stories with depth and emotional complexity
- A touch of thrill in your romance novels
- Strong family dynamics
- Delicious slow romance
- Scorching hot chemistry
- Fantastic steamy scenes
- Dual perspectives
- Deeply interconnected series
Then *Bananapants* by Penny Reid is a must-read!
Note that though I'm not spoiling the plot, I'm talking about themes you'll find in the book
A Fun and Heartfelt Romance:
From the very first page, *Bananapants* captivates with its vibrant storytelling and charming characters. At its core, the novel is a delightful romantic comedy about childhood friends Ava and Desmond, who reconnect under unexpected circumstances. Their friendship, once innocent and pure, evolves into a captivating romance with a touch of action and mystery, as Desmond plays the role of a modern-day Robin Hood—a thief with a moral compass, albeit without the giving-to-the-poor part.
Penny Reid crafts an engaging narrative that balances humor, romance, and a dash of thrill. Ava and Desmond's journey is a second-chance romance that feels refreshing and genuine. Reid's signature wit and clever dialogue shine through, making the characters not only relatable but incredibly memorable. The supporting cast, too, is rich and well-developed, adding layers to the story that readers will find hard to resist.
A Deeper Layer of Complexity:
But *Bananapants* offers much more than just a lighthearted romance. Beneath the surface lies a profound exploration of mental health, specifically bipolar disorder, through the lens of Desmond's experiences. Reid seamlessly weaves this theme into the narrative, shedding light on the challenges faced by those with the diagnosis and the impact it has on family dynamics and friendships.
Ava's story allows readers to see how Desmond's condition affects those around him, especially Ava. The novel delves into the emotional scars and confusion that arise when Ava, as a child, is suddenly ghosted by Desmond, the friend she deeply loved. Reid portrays the complexities of loving someone with bipolar disorder—the feelings of rejection, the longing for understanding, and the marks it leaves on future relationships. Through Ava's perspective, readers gain an insightful glimpse into the world of someone navigating life alongside a person with bipolar disorder. The portrayal is sensitive and authentic, highlighting how such a diagnosis can test the bonds of friendship and love.
Entering the Penny Reid Universe:
For those familiar with Penny Reid's previous works, *Bananapants* is like stepping into a universe filled with familiar faces and delightful Easter eggs. The novel cleverly integrates characters from Reid's other series, such as *Knitting in the City* and *Winston Bros*, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories. This aspect of the book feels like an "Endgame" moment for fans, full of name-dropping and witty nods to the Reidiverse.
However, newcomers to Reid's books might find the multitude of side characters slightly overwhelming at first. Yet, this introduction to the Penny Reid Universe is an invitation to dive deeper into her interconnected series, promising endless enjoyment for those who embark on the journey.
Final Thoughts:
While the action elements in *Bananapants* play a secondary role, they serve to complement the main narrative, providing just the right amount of intrigue. If you're craving more high-stakes action, *Happily Ever Ninja*—Ava's mother's story—might be the next read for you.
Penny Reid's ability to create a series with such deep interconnectedness sets her apart in the romance genre. Once you've experienced her storytelling, it's hard not to feel a little disappointed with other series that barely mention previous characters. Reid's books offer a world that feels lived-in and authentic, with relationships that grow and evolve across novels.
In conclusion, *Bananapants* is a delightful read that seamlessly blends romance, humor, and depth. Whether you're a long-time fan of Penny Reid or a newcomer, this book promises a captivating and rewarding experience. Don't wait—start your Penny Reid journey today, and you'll undoubtedly thank me later!
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) of *Bananapants* for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.
- Romantic comedies
- Second-chance and friends-to-lovers romances
- Stories with depth and emotional complexity
- A touch of thrill in your romance novels
- Strong family dynamics
- Delicious slow romance
- Scorching hot chemistry
- Fantastic steamy scenes
- Dual perspectives
- Deeply interconnected series
Then *Bananapants* by Penny Reid is a must-read!
Note that though I'm not spoiling the plot, I'm talking about themes you'll find in the book
A Fun and Heartfelt Romance:
From the very first page, *Bananapants* captivates with its vibrant storytelling and charming characters. At its core, the novel is a delightful romantic comedy about childhood friends Ava and Desmond, who reconnect under unexpected circumstances. Their friendship, once innocent and pure, evolves into a captivating romance with a touch of action and mystery, as Desmond plays the role of a modern-day Robin Hood—a thief with a moral compass, albeit without the giving-to-the-poor part.
Penny Reid crafts an engaging narrative that balances humor, romance, and a dash of thrill. Ava and Desmond's journey is a second-chance romance that feels refreshing and genuine. Reid's signature wit and clever dialogue shine through, making the characters not only relatable but incredibly memorable. The supporting cast, too, is rich and well-developed, adding layers to the story that readers will find hard to resist.
A Deeper Layer of Complexity:
But *Bananapants* offers much more than just a lighthearted romance. Beneath the surface lies a profound exploration of mental health, specifically bipolar disorder, through the lens of Desmond's experiences. Reid seamlessly weaves this theme into the narrative, shedding light on the challenges faced by those with the diagnosis and the impact it has on family dynamics and friendships.
Ava's story allows readers to see how Desmond's condition affects those around him, especially Ava. The novel delves into the emotional scars and confusion that arise when Ava, as a child, is suddenly ghosted by Desmond, the friend she deeply loved. Reid portrays the complexities of loving someone with bipolar disorder—the feelings of rejection, the longing for understanding, and the marks it leaves on future relationships. Through Ava's perspective, readers gain an insightful glimpse into the world of someone navigating life alongside a person with bipolar disorder. The portrayal is sensitive and authentic, highlighting how such a diagnosis can test the bonds of friendship and love.
Entering the Penny Reid Universe:
For those familiar with Penny Reid's previous works, *Bananapants* is like stepping into a universe filled with familiar faces and delightful Easter eggs. The novel cleverly integrates characters from Reid's other series, such as *Knitting in the City* and *Winston Bros*, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories. This aspect of the book feels like an "Endgame" moment for fans, full of name-dropping and witty nods to the Reidiverse.
However, newcomers to Reid's books might find the multitude of side characters slightly overwhelming at first. Yet, this introduction to the Penny Reid Universe is an invitation to dive deeper into her interconnected series, promising endless enjoyment for those who embark on the journey.
Final Thoughts:
While the action elements in *Bananapants* play a secondary role, they serve to complement the main narrative, providing just the right amount of intrigue. If you're craving more high-stakes action, *Happily Ever Ninja*—Ava's mother's story—might be the next read for you.
Penny Reid's ability to create a series with such deep interconnectedness sets her apart in the romance genre. Once you've experienced her storytelling, it's hard not to feel a little disappointed with other series that barely mention previous characters. Reid's books offer a world that feels lived-in and authentic, with relationships that grow and evolve across novels.
In conclusion, *Bananapants* is a delightful read that seamlessly blends romance, humor, and depth. Whether you're a long-time fan of Penny Reid or a newcomer, this book promises a captivating and rewarding experience. Don't wait—start your Penny Reid journey today, and you'll undoubtedly thank me later!
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) of *Bananapants* for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 6, 2024
Bananapants by author Penny Reid feels significant. I don’t have a crystal ball, but this book feels like it could be a difference maker for someone out there who needs to see themselves represented, loved, and accepted — and isn’t that something every human craves?
This book is Ava and Desmond’s second chance at friendship and their first real shot at love. These two were besties from birth and were always meant to be together, but they’ve spent the last ten years apart.
For those who may have somehow missed the memo, this is a second generation story. Des is the son of Janie and Quinn (Neanderthal Seeks Human) and Ava is the daughter of Fiona and Greg (Happily Ever Ninja.) While appearances from the Knitting in the City gang are sure to delight longtime Reiders, this story truly can be enjoyed as a standalone.
Bananapants centers around a character living with bipolar disorder. It’s obvious that Reid writes from a place of research but also a place of experience. As such, readers should heed the content warnings. This story references suicidal thoughts, past suicide attempts, bipolar, anxiety, panic attacks — the everyday realities of people living with mental illnesses. Have tissues ready.
Ava and Desmond have compelling backstories and feel like three-dimensional people. I learned about bipolar as I read, but the writing didn’t feel clinical or preachy. (In this aspect, it reminded me a lot of Reid’s Beard in Mind.)
All of this is couched inside of a romantic comedy. There are some truly outrageous moments in a plot that manages to be fun even with some of the novel’s heavier themes. Some of the levity is also provided by the quirkiness of the characters. Plus, Ava and Desmond are just plain fun together. The two have fantastic chemistry and feel like true best friends.
Initially, I thought the ending of this story was a bit abrupt, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that not all happily ever afters are going to look alike. This book ends with the characters together and happy, and hopeful, and that’s all I really ask for in my romance.
This book is Ava and Desmond’s second chance at friendship and their first real shot at love. These two were besties from birth and were always meant to be together, but they’ve spent the last ten years apart.
For those who may have somehow missed the memo, this is a second generation story. Des is the son of Janie and Quinn (Neanderthal Seeks Human) and Ava is the daughter of Fiona and Greg (Happily Ever Ninja.) While appearances from the Knitting in the City gang are sure to delight longtime Reiders, this story truly can be enjoyed as a standalone.
Bananapants centers around a character living with bipolar disorder. It’s obvious that Reid writes from a place of research but also a place of experience. As such, readers should heed the content warnings. This story references suicidal thoughts, past suicide attempts, bipolar, anxiety, panic attacks — the everyday realities of people living with mental illnesses. Have tissues ready.
Ava and Desmond have compelling backstories and feel like three-dimensional people. I learned about bipolar as I read, but the writing didn’t feel clinical or preachy. (In this aspect, it reminded me a lot of Reid’s Beard in Mind.)
All of this is couched inside of a romantic comedy. There are some truly outrageous moments in a plot that manages to be fun even with some of the novel’s heavier themes. Some of the levity is also provided by the quirkiness of the characters. Plus, Ava and Desmond are just plain fun together. The two have fantastic chemistry and feel like true best friends.
Initially, I thought the ending of this story was a bit abrupt, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that not all happily ever afters are going to look alike. This book ends with the characters together and happy, and hopeful, and that’s all I really ask for in my romance.
Read
October 8, 2024i’m too upset and disappointed to rate this
July 6, 2024
Magnificent!! 10⭐️
This is my favorite book from Penny so far and probably of the year. With her typically quirkiness, humor and intelligence she approach a love story involving a mental illness with the most genuine, thoughtful and respectful touch.
If you’re one of the fortunates that backed her Kickstarter and are waiting for your copy, you won the lottery with this one, but if you eventually borrow it from a friend and are a newbie, you won’t be disappointed either.
These are the basics (NO SPOILERS):
1. It’s a 2nd generation friends to lovers novel that can be read as a stand-alone but I strongly recommend to previously read the whole Knitting In The City Series to get a profound context of the story. That will give you a better understanding of the 1st gen female characters, their love ones and specially the author’s personality.
2. If you have a relative, a friend, a couple or even yourself suffer from a mental disorder, it’ll be impossible to not be portrayed or related to some or several situations described in the book. It can touch you very personally but always from a place of love and respect.
3. Ava and Desmond are BFF since forever, until Des exhibits what can be called as an irrational behavior that leads to a diagnosis. After being separated for 10 years they meet again under a peculiar situation.
I’ll love to say more but this book is so marvelous that I don’t want to ruin the surprise. Both characters are beautifully developed, they deserved every smile and every tear I shed.
Thank you Penny from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for giving us this treasure.
This is my favorite book from Penny so far and probably of the year. With her typically quirkiness, humor and intelligence she approach a love story involving a mental illness with the most genuine, thoughtful and respectful touch.
If you’re one of the fortunates that backed her Kickstarter and are waiting for your copy, you won the lottery with this one, but if you eventually borrow it from a friend and are a newbie, you won’t be disappointed either.
These are the basics (NO SPOILERS):
1. It’s a 2nd generation friends to lovers novel that can be read as a stand-alone but I strongly recommend to previously read the whole Knitting In The City Series to get a profound context of the story. That will give you a better understanding of the 1st gen female characters, their love ones and specially the author’s personality.
2. If you have a relative, a friend, a couple or even yourself suffer from a mental disorder, it’ll be impossible to not be portrayed or related to some or several situations described in the book. It can touch you very personally but always from a place of love and respect.
3. Ava and Desmond are BFF since forever, until Des exhibits what can be called as an irrational behavior that leads to a diagnosis. After being separated for 10 years they meet again under a peculiar situation.
I’ll love to say more but this book is so marvelous that I don’t want to ruin the surprise. Both characters are beautifully developed, they deserved every smile and every tear I shed.
Thank you Penny from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for giving us this treasure.
July 29, 2024
First, I want to say thank you to Ms. Reid for writing neurodiverse characters with realism, class, and sensitivity that really resonates with me. As a parent of a neurodivergent child, I am sensitive to authors who write characters with mental health issues, and Ms. Reid is in a class by herself.
Now, onto the story! This is the story of Desmond and Ava, childhood best friends. One bombshell decision separates them for years, and when they run into each other again, sparks fly, and hearts melt.
Set in the Knitting in the City series, it can totally be read as a stand-alone. (Unfortunately, I have not read them all, but I was able to dive into the story with no problems whatsoever.)
Ava is adorkable in the best ways! She is feisty, she is curious and she embraces her quirks.
Desmond is a hero I didn't know I needed in my world. He struggles to keep Ava at arm's length, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This is a romantic comedy of the highest caliber, and I loved it!
The last chapter especially hit home for me and made me want to bow down to the greatness of Penny Reid's imagination and talent even more.
Now, onto the story! This is the story of Desmond and Ava, childhood best friends. One bombshell decision separates them for years, and when they run into each other again, sparks fly, and hearts melt.
Set in the Knitting in the City series, it can totally be read as a stand-alone. (Unfortunately, I have not read them all, but I was able to dive into the story with no problems whatsoever.)
Ava is adorkable in the best ways! She is feisty, she is curious and she embraces her quirks.
Desmond is a hero I didn't know I needed in my world. He struggles to keep Ava at arm's length, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This is a romantic comedy of the highest caliber, and I loved it!
The last chapter especially hit home for me and made me want to bow down to the greatness of Penny Reid's imagination and talent even more.
July 14, 2025
Sweet and surprisingly emotional
I enjoyed every minute of this book. The tension and yearning of the friends to lovers portion of the story was just so good. Then there is the mental health representation, which is excellent. While I am not bipolar like the male main character, I really felt parts of his struggle in my soul as someone who has depression and anxiety. The humor in this book is sweet, funny, and honestly devastating sometimes ( since Des, the main character, uses it as part of his deflection methods). I thoroughly enjoyed the author's writing style and cannot wait to read more of her work!
Please note that although it took me a couple of weeks to read this (life, am I right?) this story is actually pretty fast paced, so it could be read fairly quickly by someone with a few less distractions than me!
I enjoyed every minute of this book. The tension and yearning of the friends to lovers portion of the story was just so good. Then there is the mental health representation, which is excellent. While I am not bipolar like the male main character, I really felt parts of his struggle in my soul as someone who has depression and anxiety. The humor in this book is sweet, funny, and honestly devastating sometimes ( since Des, the main character, uses it as part of his deflection methods). I thoroughly enjoyed the author's writing style and cannot wait to read more of her work!
Please note that although it took me a couple of weeks to read this (life, am I right?) this story is actually pretty fast paced, so it could be read fairly quickly by someone with a few less distractions than me!
August 12, 2024
It felt all over the place and Ava was too quirky, like too too quirky.
August 4, 2024
Bananapants was at the very top of my most anticipated reads list this year, and I loved every minute of reading this book!
Penny Reid has a very distinctive voice and writing style that make her books so unique and fun to read. I always feel like I learn something new and interesting while still getting all the romance, humor, and found family friendship I've come to expect from her.
Bananapants is a second generation story with Ava and Desmond being the kids of two different couples from the Knitting in the City series. I really liked that this still felt enough like a standalone story that new readers could jump in and not feel lost. However, there were so many Easter Eggs, references, and familiar characters from the Knitting in the City series I got a kick out of finding as many as I could while reading, and it was really fun seeing what those couples are up to now. Doing a second generation series or book can be tricky, but this was done fantastically.
Ava and Desmond were such interesting characters, and I loved the dual POV. You can tell the connection between them never really went away despite years apart. They had great banter and chemistry, and you can tell they were meant to be together. It was nice, too, to see character growth as the story progressed and Ava and Desmond figured out their relationship.
Bananapants will definitely be at the top of my favorite books of the year list, and I am already planning a reread of it and the whole Knitting in the City series!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Penny Reid has a very distinctive voice and writing style that make her books so unique and fun to read. I always feel like I learn something new and interesting while still getting all the romance, humor, and found family friendship I've come to expect from her.
Bananapants is a second generation story with Ava and Desmond being the kids of two different couples from the Knitting in the City series. I really liked that this still felt enough like a standalone story that new readers could jump in and not feel lost. However, there were so many Easter Eggs, references, and familiar characters from the Knitting in the City series I got a kick out of finding as many as I could while reading, and it was really fun seeing what those couples are up to now. Doing a second generation series or book can be tricky, but this was done fantastically.
Ava and Desmond were such interesting characters, and I loved the dual POV. You can tell the connection between them never really went away despite years apart. They had great banter and chemistry, and you can tell they were meant to be together. It was nice, too, to see character growth as the story progressed and Ava and Desmond figured out their relationship.
Bananapants will definitely be at the top of my favorite books of the year list, and I am already planning a reread of it and the whole Knitting in the City series!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
August 26, 2024
I didn't know how much I needed this book.
I needed it to remember why I appreciate Penny Reid so much. Her latest books (since the Knitting in the City and Winston Brother series - the original ones) were enjoyable, but none of them was a "wow" to me.
I needed it to regain faith in the genre, modern romance with wit and a deeper topic, where characters develop, where is a bit of action, some swoony moments, and something to think through.
I have big hopes and anxieties about Ava and Des' story. So big, that the ebook waited for me since its premiere on my Kindle. I was afraid I would be disappointed. But I wasn't, far from it. Penny Reid gave me the story that I fell in love with, that we, fans of the above-mentioned series, deserved. The author managed perfectly the characters in the background (not overwhelming with old friends, but also not writing like they were not important). And those few talks between Des and Quinn - simply perfection.
I could praise here how brilliantly Penny Reid captured (again) mental illness. How wonderfully she created an enjoyable and mature love story. How funny were some scenes, how much fun I had. But I won't. You read it, and I will dream thinking of it ;-)
I needed it to remember why I appreciate Penny Reid so much. Her latest books (since the Knitting in the City and Winston Brother series - the original ones) were enjoyable, but none of them was a "wow" to me.
I needed it to regain faith in the genre, modern romance with wit and a deeper topic, where characters develop, where is a bit of action, some swoony moments, and something to think through.
I have big hopes and anxieties about Ava and Des' story. So big, that the ebook waited for me since its premiere on my Kindle. I was afraid I would be disappointed. But I wasn't, far from it. Penny Reid gave me the story that I fell in love with, that we, fans of the above-mentioned series, deserved. The author managed perfectly the characters in the background (not overwhelming with old friends, but also not writing like they were not important). And those few talks between Des and Quinn - simply perfection.
I could praise here how brilliantly Penny Reid captured (again) mental illness. How wonderfully she created an enjoyable and mature love story. How funny were some scenes, how much fun I had. But I won't. You read it, and I will dream thinking of it ;-)
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