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Off Book
Jade McKinney isn’t interested in love. In fact, she’s sworn off feelings all together after her breakup from George Greg and Threesome Anna. The student-directed plays offer the perfect escape for a heartbroken theater minor — after all, what better way to get away from your own feelings than by getting into someone else’s?
Ian Davidson just wants to graduate. But according to Middle Penn College’s requirements, even tech theater majors have to perform in a show before they can get their degree. A terrifying prospect for someone who prefers lighting up a stage to being on it…
Thrown together as scene partners, neither Jade nor Ian are thrilled about being in the same spotlight. To make matters worse, their director insists they spend time outside of rehearsal ‘building chemistry’. But Jade’s ‘hands-on’ approach is too intense for Ian and Ian’s offer of friendship is too boring for Jade.
As the semester wears on, Jade’s resolve to be alone wobbles in the face of Ian’s steady devotion. But when their hearts go off script, will she exit stage left?
Ian Davidson just wants to graduate. But according to Middle Penn College’s requirements, even tech theater majors have to perform in a show before they can get their degree. A terrifying prospect for someone who prefers lighting up a stage to being on it…
Thrown together as scene partners, neither Jade nor Ian are thrilled about being in the same spotlight. To make matters worse, their director insists they spend time outside of rehearsal ‘building chemistry’. But Jade’s ‘hands-on’ approach is too intense for Ian and Ian’s offer of friendship is too boring for Jade.
As the semester wears on, Jade’s resolve to be alone wobbles in the face of Ian’s steady devotion. But when their hearts go off script, will she exit stage left?
- GenresRomance
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
12 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
🌶️🌶️
“𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙩? 𝙅𝙖𝙙𝙚, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙣, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙖 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚.”
As a theatre lover, I was so excited to read this book about some college theatre nerds falling in love. I absolutely adored Ian and Jade. They were absolutely hilarious and precious together. I cracked up every time Jade referred to Ian as a green bean. I loved how awkward and sweet Ian was with Jade, and how she absolutely could not handle his secret hobby (IYKYK). This book handles some tougher topics with care, and is extremely funny, cute, and sweet. I had a fantastic time and can’t recommend it enough!
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨.
🌶️🌶️
“𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙩? 𝙅𝙖𝙙𝙚, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙣, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙖 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚.”
As a theatre lover, I was so excited to read this book about some college theatre nerds falling in love. I absolutely adored Ian and Jade. They were absolutely hilarious and precious together. I cracked up every time Jade referred to Ian as a green bean. I loved how awkward and sweet Ian was with Jade, and how she absolutely could not handle his secret hobby (IYKYK). This book handles some tougher topics with care, and is extremely funny, cute, and sweet. I had a fantastic time and can’t recommend it enough!
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨.
October 1, 2024
This one did me in. I'm not even lying when I say I teared up multiple times (something I don't often do while reading). There was so much I related to in Off Book and it was so well done and hit so hard, while at the same time being such a fun and freakin' adorable read. And I'm not even a theater kid!
I will always adore Jade and her bold no-effs-given personality. I loved her in Deja Vu, but seeing her softer sides and struggles in this book broke me time and again, especially as someone familiar with childhood parentification who had to grow up with an alcoholic parent. So much about her character made sense and made the way Ian treated her all the more special and heart-melting.
And don't get me started on that green bean. Ian is such an awkward, lovable, walking embodiment of sunshine. He is everything good in the world.
Love love love this story!
I will always adore Jade and her bold no-effs-given personality. I loved her in Deja Vu, but seeing her softer sides and struggles in this book broke me time and again, especially as someone familiar with childhood parentification who had to grow up with an alcoholic parent. So much about her character made sense and made the way Ian treated her all the more special and heart-melting.
And don't get me started on that green bean. Ian is such an awkward, lovable, walking embodiment of sunshine. He is everything good in the world.
Love love love this story!
October 9, 2024
Well, leave it to Leiby to pull me out of a year long reading slump. If you know me (which you probably don’t) that’s really all you need to know about Off Book. But in all seriousness, Off Book is a really well done opposites attract novel. Jade and Ian couldn’t be more different, and yet, they seem to be drawn together like two little lusty magnets. As the story unravels we, as the readers, get to feel the building chemistry right along with Jade and Ian. Jade has a tough exterior and she’s a little hard to like at first. But Leiby does well at giving depth to her characters and you can’t help but feel empathy for them by the end. All in all a solid read. And yay for me I feel excited about reading again! Thanks to Liz Leiby for an ARC of Off Book in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2024
RUN, don’t walk!!! To preorder this book. RIGHT FREAKIN NOW!!! I cannot even put into words how much I love this book by @lizleibyauthor ! Jade is a black cat theater kid who doesn’t believe in love, and Ian is the best golden retriever, cinnamon roll, slow burn into attractiveness (you know the type, unassuming at first and then before you even know it you’re in love with them and finding every bit of them sexy af?!?). They are pushed together to share the stage for a one act and the chemistry is non-existent….until it’s literally burning your fingers as you’re reading 🥵 Romance, laugh out loud goodness, plus sprinkle in some amazing feminist one liners, references to our fave theater shows, and a few good tropes that were just *chefs kiss* (one bed?? Yes please!) and you’ve got yourself a literary masterpiece. Now go, preorder “Off Book” by the amazing and talented Liz Leiby….you can thank me later 😏
October 10, 2024
Liz Leiby got me again, y'all. I think the only thing that would make me enjoy this book even more, is if I was a theater kid. But you absolutely don't need to be one to love this romance! Like her other books this made me have all the fuzzy feelings of a Hallmark movie, but with none of the bad acting... except for Ian.
⬇️ 💛 Very mild spoilers below 💛 ⬇️
Jade was relatable in more ways than one for me, so reading her transition from being anti-feelings to the feelings queen was incredibly touching. Once you have been scorned by your own heart, it's hard to trust it to guide you anymore.
I was absolutely floored with how accurately she handled the subject of familial substance abuse and the rollercoaster that comes with it. Jade traverses situations with her mom as best as she can, and wow some of that was tough to read! She beings to recognize her own patterns forming, and her revelations had me sobbing my eyes out... in a really cool chill way.
Ian is such a sweet baby angel. He is funny, charming, and painfully awkward. But as we get to see his boundaries drop with Jade, we get to see his SHOCKINGLY sensual side. It was no surprise that he was tender but he's also way sexier than I ever would have imagined!
Something about the way Liz Leiby writes just resonates with me, and it was an absolute privilege to be able to ARC read this one after reading her last two. As always, I appreciate her adding in her GOT Season 8 hate that I have come to know and love. I hope she continues down this avenue of novels becoming increasingly spicier because she has an untapped knack for it!
⬇️ 💛 Very mild spoilers below 💛 ⬇️
Jade was relatable in more ways than one for me, so reading her transition from being anti-feelings to the feelings queen was incredibly touching. Once you have been scorned by your own heart, it's hard to trust it to guide you anymore.
I was absolutely floored with how accurately she handled the subject of familial substance abuse and the rollercoaster that comes with it. Jade traverses situations with her mom as best as she can, and wow some of that was tough to read! She beings to recognize her own patterns forming, and her revelations had me sobbing my eyes out... in a really cool chill way.
Ian is such a sweet baby angel. He is funny, charming, and painfully awkward. But as we get to see his boundaries drop with Jade, we get to see his SHOCKINGLY sensual side. It was no surprise that he was tender but he's also way sexier than I ever would have imagined!
Something about the way Liz Leiby writes just resonates with me, and it was an absolute privilege to be able to ARC read this one after reading her last two. As always, I appreciate her adding in her GOT Season 8 hate that I have come to know and love. I hope she continues down this avenue of novels becoming increasingly spicier because she has an untapped knack for it!
October 12, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️{5}
🌶️🌶️🫑{2.5}
This one released 10/1 and everyone needs to go read it IMMEDIATELY. This was TOO F*CKING CUTE 😍 the MCs chemistry was top-tier, the banter had me swooning. It was sweet, funny, heartbreaking and just oh so good!! I also learned a lot about theater and really enjoyed that! TWs for alcoholism, the mental heath rep was phenomenal though.
This one follows the story of two complete opposites who get paired together to be scene partners for a one act play! Ian is the most golden retriever MMC to golden retriever ever and I love him for it and all of his anxiety. I honestly related to him so much lol. And poor Jade, her journey was beautiful and heartbreaking and I’m so proud of her. She’s also hysterical and 110% herself at all times and I loved that. And the stage managers booth scene 🫠🫡😮💨 I didn’t even know what a stage managers booth was until this book, but I shall never think of it the same again lol.
𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮:
🎭 golden retriever mmc x black cat fmc
🎭 opposites attract
🎭 lgbtq+ rep
🎭 mental health rep//alcoholism
🎭 college theater romance
🎭 he falls first
🎭 forced proximity
𝓕𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓺𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼:
“𝘍𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯’𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘐𝘢𝘯. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦.”
“𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴.”
“𝘐’𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶”
“𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘬𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧.”
“𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘑𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘔𝘤𝘒𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘺. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵.”
“𝘖𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘰𝘥,” 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘺. “𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵?” 𝘑𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘴, 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘳.. “𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵? 𝘑𝘢𝘥𝘦, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦.”
🌶️🌶️🫑{2.5}
This one released 10/1 and everyone needs to go read it IMMEDIATELY. This was TOO F*CKING CUTE 😍 the MCs chemistry was top-tier, the banter had me swooning. It was sweet, funny, heartbreaking and just oh so good!! I also learned a lot about theater and really enjoyed that! TWs for alcoholism, the mental heath rep was phenomenal though.
This one follows the story of two complete opposites who get paired together to be scene partners for a one act play! Ian is the most golden retriever MMC to golden retriever ever and I love him for it and all of his anxiety. I honestly related to him so much lol. And poor Jade, her journey was beautiful and heartbreaking and I’m so proud of her. She’s also hysterical and 110% herself at all times and I loved that. And the stage managers booth scene 🫠🫡😮💨 I didn’t even know what a stage managers booth was until this book, but I shall never think of it the same again lol.
𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮:
🎭 golden retriever mmc x black cat fmc
🎭 opposites attract
🎭 lgbtq+ rep
🎭 mental health rep//alcoholism
🎭 college theater romance
🎭 he falls first
🎭 forced proximity
𝓕𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓺𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼:
“𝘍𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯’𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘐𝘢𝘯. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦.”
“𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴.”
“𝘐’𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶”
“𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘬𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧.”
“𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘑𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘔𝘤𝘒𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘺. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵.”
“𝘖𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘰𝘥,” 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘺. “𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵?” 𝘑𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘴, 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘳.. “𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵? 𝘑𝘢𝘥𝘦, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦.”
October 26, 2024
Ok look...Romance is not my genre...but if Liz Leiby is writing it, I am reading it. She is 3 for 3 with me. I really enjoyed Off Book. I love the carryover of the characters from Deja Vu. The walls of protection that Jade kept up were frustrating to me but very believable. I could feel Jade's hesitancy, apprehension, and downright fear of "feeling". I really liked that this story is centered around theater...makes me want to go try out for a play. I am not an eloquent reviewer, but I will end by saying if romance is your genre, then don't sleep on Off Book (but read Deja Vu first...and in fact start with her first book Love Again). Another home run!
October 6, 2024
I have been a dedicated fan of this author since her debut novel. With each new publish, I am excited for both a good story and to see how Liz Leiby has grown and developed her unique writing voice. I definitely went into reading Off Book with a certain level of expectations.
Once again, Leiby has given us the gift of a good story, featuring: strong characters, college nostalgia (for us elder millennials), theater nerd vibes, non-toxic romance (we love a respectful man), LGBTQ representation, and solid friendships.
But what I found most compelling about her third novel was the way she seamlessly wove very tangible, real-life roadblocks into the plot. I never attended a college campus, but I like to live vicariously through books or television shows that feature that setting. Sometimes I can relate to their struggles, other times I just use my imagination. Liz did a great job of writing conflict that not only fit her setting/characters, but also felt relatable outside of Middle Pen’s campus.
You don’t have to have attended a university to know how paralyzing it feels to be faced with major decisions that could affect your future (and, like Jade, I just tend to ignore it for as looooong as possible hehehe).
I am also not a child of an addict, but Liz crafted the delicate and complicated relationship between Jade and her mom in a way that helped me understand that dynamic as well.
This book also introduced me to a new term that I’d never heard before: demisexual. Actually, Liz’s Instagram/ARC reading forum did that. I did a little research about it and realized in my own time how much I related to every thing I saw, read, and heard. I now identify as a demisexual myself. That in itself has been a journey, but I truly loved reading about it from Ian’s POV, especially as he discovered it about himself in real-time just as I had.
On another personal note (as if this entire review hasn’t been personal lol), I grew up very religious and my youth was shaped by toxic purity culture. Now in my early 30s, I am still working on the long-term effects in both therapy and my marriage. I felt drawn to Jades confidence about her body, sexuality, and self-worth in the glimpses we got of her in Leiby’s previous novel, Deja Vu. When Liz announced that Off Book would feature Jade as a FMC, I was immediately IN.
For me, getting to read about a young woman who not only enjoys her body and how she likes to use it, but also celebrates it in safe environments with partners on her own terms was healing.
Plus Leiby turned up the 🌶️🌶️ in this one and let me just say- well done 😅🥵🪭
To make a very very very very long review short (if you’re still reading this holy shit), Off Book is now my favorite book of Leiby’s. But truthfully at this point, I won’t be surprised if that trend continues with her next novel.
My heart, however, will always belong to Ian 🤤💖
Once again, Leiby has given us the gift of a good story, featuring: strong characters, college nostalgia (for us elder millennials), theater nerd vibes, non-toxic romance (we love a respectful man), LGBTQ representation, and solid friendships.
But what I found most compelling about her third novel was the way she seamlessly wove very tangible, real-life roadblocks into the plot. I never attended a college campus, but I like to live vicariously through books or television shows that feature that setting. Sometimes I can relate to their struggles, other times I just use my imagination. Liz did a great job of writing conflict that not only fit her setting/characters, but also felt relatable outside of Middle Pen’s campus.
You don’t have to have attended a university to know how paralyzing it feels to be faced with major decisions that could affect your future (and, like Jade, I just tend to ignore it for as looooong as possible hehehe).
I am also not a child of an addict, but Liz crafted the delicate and complicated relationship between Jade and her mom in a way that helped me understand that dynamic as well.
This book also introduced me to a new term that I’d never heard before: demisexual. Actually, Liz’s Instagram/ARC reading forum did that. I did a little research about it and realized in my own time how much I related to every thing I saw, read, and heard. I now identify as a demisexual myself. That in itself has been a journey, but I truly loved reading about it from Ian’s POV, especially as he discovered it about himself in real-time just as I had.
On another personal note (as if this entire review hasn’t been personal lol), I grew up very religious and my youth was shaped by toxic purity culture. Now in my early 30s, I am still working on the long-term effects in both therapy and my marriage. I felt drawn to Jades confidence about her body, sexuality, and self-worth in the glimpses we got of her in Leiby’s previous novel, Deja Vu. When Liz announced that Off Book would feature Jade as a FMC, I was immediately IN.
For me, getting to read about a young woman who not only enjoys her body and how she likes to use it, but also celebrates it in safe environments with partners on her own terms was healing.
Plus Leiby turned up the 🌶️🌶️ in this one and let me just say- well done 😅🥵🪭
To make a very very very very long review short (if you’re still reading this holy shit), Off Book is now my favorite book of Leiby’s. But truthfully at this point, I won’t be surprised if that trend continues with her next novel.
My heart, however, will always belong to Ian 🤤💖
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
The characters in this series are so relatable, there were times I felt like I was reading about my own life.
October 1, 2024
I am torn between asking Jade to be my friend and fighting her for her man.
Ian, my love. I admittet to like you loooong before she did. But I like how your happy ever after turmed out.
And Jade, you are so strong. And fun and amazing and creative and confident. I love you girl.
And Liz, thank you. Thank you for making me giggle, laugh, cry and fall in love with Jade and Ian. Thanks for not the oportunity to read this book and thank you for writing it. I had the best time and am not ready to let them go.
Happy release day Jade, Ian and most importantly Liz Leiby. All of you are absolute icons.
Grab Off Book now if you are looking for a fun and emotional theatre romance!
Ian, my love. I admittet to like you loooong before she did. But I like how your happy ever after turmed out.
And Jade, you are so strong. And fun and amazing and creative and confident. I love you girl.
And Liz, thank you. Thank you for making me giggle, laugh, cry and fall in love with Jade and Ian. Thanks for not the oportunity to read this book and thank you for writing it. I had the best time and am not ready to let them go.
Happy release day Jade, Ian and most importantly Liz Leiby. All of you are absolute icons.
Grab Off Book now if you are looking for a fun and emotional theatre romance!
October 1, 2024
I loved loved loved this book. I was a theater kid in high school and wished I had continued some in college, so I might be biased, but it was so relatable - tech week is life 😂. I loved the development of these characters, I really loved the dual POV, and I loved the combination of serious issues with light-hearted college banter and fun. I have been heavy into fantasy, and this was a lovely break. It made me cry, it made me happy, and it was overall just a lovely read that I couldn't put down. Will definitely read again and again.
July 9, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
ARC Review: Pub Date October 1, 2024
𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒂𝒏 𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅?
Oh my god y'all. This. Book. It is so good. It's a love letter to theater kids. Liz has created a story with so much heart and it shows that she loves not only these characters, but the theater world. You have absolutely no doubt that she wrote this from her soul.
Jade is such an interesting FMC. I truly don't know that I've read anyone else like her. Learning her backstory and history is so heartbreaking and you just want to hug her. She's so deeply guarded and it completely makes sense, but then watching her open up and learn to let someone in, is so satisfying and beautiful.
Ian is everything. He is too good for this world. Cinnamon roll personified. Must protecc. I love him. He has a ton of growth in this book. I loved seeing how he opened up as well and learned to trust himself and step outside his comfort zone. His journey to understand his sexuality was also so perfectly executed and I loved the care and patience that Jade exercised in helping him with it.
The chemistry between these two is SO GOOD. The tension in some scenes is palpable. Who knew costume makeup and bowling could be so hot?! And you'll never think about the tech booth in a theater the same way again. 😏😮💨
This is technically book 2 in a series of standalones, and I cannot wait to read Deja Vu and get caught up on Jessie and Mac's story. They were so freaking cute in this book and I'm excited to learn more about them.
𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒏𝒐 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑱𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝑴𝒄𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒚. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕.
Read July 1-2, 2024
🌶️🌶️
ARC Review: Pub Date October 1, 2024
𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒂𝒏 𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅?
Oh my god y'all. This. Book. It is so good. It's a love letter to theater kids. Liz has created a story with so much heart and it shows that she loves not only these characters, but the theater world. You have absolutely no doubt that she wrote this from her soul.
Jade is such an interesting FMC. I truly don't know that I've read anyone else like her. Learning her backstory and history is so heartbreaking and you just want to hug her. She's so deeply guarded and it completely makes sense, but then watching her open up and learn to let someone in, is so satisfying and beautiful.
Ian is everything. He is too good for this world. Cinnamon roll personified. Must protecc. I love him. He has a ton of growth in this book. I loved seeing how he opened up as well and learned to trust himself and step outside his comfort zone. His journey to understand his sexuality was also so perfectly executed and I loved the care and patience that Jade exercised in helping him with it.
The chemistry between these two is SO GOOD. The tension in some scenes is palpable. Who knew costume makeup and bowling could be so hot?! And you'll never think about the tech booth in a theater the same way again. 😏😮💨
This is technically book 2 in a series of standalones, and I cannot wait to read Deja Vu and get caught up on Jessie and Mac's story. They were so freaking cute in this book and I'm excited to learn more about them.
𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒏𝒐 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑱𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝑴𝒄𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒚. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕.
Read July 1-2, 2024
April 7, 2024
maybe premature considering i’ve read the second draft but ooooo my babies are you in for a TREAT
October 6, 2024
A theater kid romance that will leave you with all the feels, and all the nostalgia if you were lucky enough to spend any time as a theater kid!
First, I must acknowledge the fun coincidences I experienced while reading this book. The characters go to “Middle Penn College” where they are preparing one act performances that will be put on in the “black box theater”. I happened to go to a college in central PA, where the theater is named “the black box” and I participated in a one act performance! I was so fascinated by this little connection, which of course made me feel so much more invested in this story!
The chemistry between these 2 main characters is amazing, even when they were told they had “no chemistry” by their one act director it still felt like it was just waiting to be ignited. I didn’t realize teaching someone to bowl could be as sexy as the age old “learn to play pool” scenario 😊 and that applying makeup could be viewed as an intimate activity. Also, their tech booth moment is perfection, and I could picture it perfectly.
Jade is a one-of-a-kind FMC, I’ve not had the pleasure of reading anyone quite like her. Her walls are built high and thick to protect herself and leaves it difficult for anyone to break through. Her upbringing is such a difficult story that caused her to have to grow up too quickly. Her character arc is one of the best I’ve read in a contemporary romance in a long time, she shows a lot of personal growth without the implication of it being quick and easy, it’s clear she has to work for these changes and that it will be a continuous journey for her.
Then we have awkward, adorable, goey cinnamon roll, Ian...I just loved him. From his initial moments of being forced to step out of his comfort zone for the one-acts, and the way Jade kindly helped him begin to understand his sexuality as a demisexual, to becoming self-confident enough to express his feelings and make decisions without asking anyone for input. He is dedicated to taking care of Jade, who is typically such a fiercely independent person, and it was the sweetest.
The side characters are also great, I loved the friendship between Jessie and Jade, and how Mac fits into their dynamic too. I didn’t realize before reading, but this is technically book 2 in a series of standalones. The first book is called “Déjà vu” which gives us Jessie and Mac’s story, and I will be adding that to the TBR!
Please be aware that Jade’s story has some heavy topics related to alcoholism. There are also a few open door intimacy scenes included in this story, they definitely help to advance the plot and allow us to feel the connection between the MC’s.
Thank you to Liz Leiby for the opportunity for this ARC read! It was such a pleasure!
First, I must acknowledge the fun coincidences I experienced while reading this book. The characters go to “Middle Penn College” where they are preparing one act performances that will be put on in the “black box theater”. I happened to go to a college in central PA, where the theater is named “the black box” and I participated in a one act performance! I was so fascinated by this little connection, which of course made me feel so much more invested in this story!
The chemistry between these 2 main characters is amazing, even when they were told they had “no chemistry” by their one act director it still felt like it was just waiting to be ignited. I didn’t realize teaching someone to bowl could be as sexy as the age old “learn to play pool” scenario 😊 and that applying makeup could be viewed as an intimate activity. Also, their tech booth moment is perfection, and I could picture it perfectly.
Jade is a one-of-a-kind FMC, I’ve not had the pleasure of reading anyone quite like her. Her walls are built high and thick to protect herself and leaves it difficult for anyone to break through. Her upbringing is such a difficult story that caused her to have to grow up too quickly. Her character arc is one of the best I’ve read in a contemporary romance in a long time, she shows a lot of personal growth without the implication of it being quick and easy, it’s clear she has to work for these changes and that it will be a continuous journey for her.
Then we have awkward, adorable, goey cinnamon roll, Ian...I just loved him. From his initial moments of being forced to step out of his comfort zone for the one-acts, and the way Jade kindly helped him begin to understand his sexuality as a demisexual, to becoming self-confident enough to express his feelings and make decisions without asking anyone for input. He is dedicated to taking care of Jade, who is typically such a fiercely independent person, and it was the sweetest.
The side characters are also great, I loved the friendship between Jessie and Jade, and how Mac fits into their dynamic too. I didn’t realize before reading, but this is technically book 2 in a series of standalones. The first book is called “Déjà vu” which gives us Jessie and Mac’s story, and I will be adding that to the TBR!
Please be aware that Jade’s story has some heavy topics related to alcoholism. There are also a few open door intimacy scenes included in this story, they definitely help to advance the plot and allow us to feel the connection between the MC’s.
Thank you to Liz Leiby for the opportunity for this ARC read! It was such a pleasure!
October 5, 2024
✨Book Review: Off Book✨
Author: Liz Leiby
“Jade McKinney isn’t interested in love. In fact, she’s sworn off feelings all together after her breakup from George Greg and Threesome Anna. The student-directed plays offer the perfect escape for a heartbroken theater minor — after all, what better way to get away from your own feelings than by getting into someone else’s?”
Yall. The vibes. All the vibes.
As a high school theater kid this book hit me in all the feels and nostalgia. I ate up every single word in this entire book and I already want to go back for more. It was fantastic.
I absolutely love the growth that Jade goes through. Becoming more emotionally intelligent isn’t the easiest thing in the world, and yet she does it with a grace and humbleness that we needed to see from her. Plus the grand gesture? Let’s go!
Ian is everything. He stays so true to himself throughout the whole story. He is who he is and he makes no apologies for it. He is perfection.
I just can’t get over how much nostalgia this book brought out in me. Some of my best moments were behind the stage. I almost immediately started looking up community theaters in my area.
This is book 2 in an interconnected stand alone series. I did not read the first book (though I cannot wait to go back and do it) and did not feel like I was missing anything.
“She kisses me like this is the kiss that might save her, like I might save her, and I would if I could. I’d give her my own life vest, put her oxygen mask on before mine; I’d face every single one of my fears if it meant she could feel safe.”
This book is out now on KU and in paperback. Pick it up today!
Author: Liz Leiby
“Jade McKinney isn’t interested in love. In fact, she’s sworn off feelings all together after her breakup from George Greg and Threesome Anna. The student-directed plays offer the perfect escape for a heartbroken theater minor — after all, what better way to get away from your own feelings than by getting into someone else’s?”
Yall. The vibes. All the vibes.
As a high school theater kid this book hit me in all the feels and nostalgia. I ate up every single word in this entire book and I already want to go back for more. It was fantastic.
I absolutely love the growth that Jade goes through. Becoming more emotionally intelligent isn’t the easiest thing in the world, and yet she does it with a grace and humbleness that we needed to see from her. Plus the grand gesture? Let’s go!
Ian is everything. He stays so true to himself throughout the whole story. He is who he is and he makes no apologies for it. He is perfection.
I just can’t get over how much nostalgia this book brought out in me. Some of my best moments were behind the stage. I almost immediately started looking up community theaters in my area.
This is book 2 in an interconnected stand alone series. I did not read the first book (though I cannot wait to go back and do it) and did not feel like I was missing anything.
“She kisses me like this is the kiss that might save her, like I might save her, and I would if I could. I’d give her my own life vest, put her oxygen mask on before mine; I’d face every single one of my fears if it meant she could feel safe.”
This book is out now on KU and in paperback. Pick it up today!
July 3, 2025
In this story we follow hard shell Jade and cinnamon roll Ian. Both are attending the same college. Jade fresh off a break up wants to dive into a one-act in the theater program to take her mind off of it. While Ian, a light tech has to participate in order to graduate. The two do not hit it off and appear as complete opposites.
However, through this one-act they begin to learn that there is more to each other than their outer exteriors. It was really enjoyable to read and I loved watching the characters grow individually and together as well.
However, through this one-act they begin to learn that there is more to each other than their outer exteriors. It was really enjoyable to read and I loved watching the characters grow individually and together as well.
September 29, 2024
Y’all this book was absolutely so charming, funny AND full of heart! I laughed out loud, I teared up, I blushed!
Jade is relationship and feelings avoidant due to her childhood (oh hello, it me). As I was reading I loved seeing her open up and let someone in. If you took Emma from Just for the Summer and made her a black cat girlie, you’d get Jade!
Ian, my precious little green bean, is the most gooey cinnamon roll green flag man ever. The way he develops throughout the story and shows such grace and understanding towards Jade AND himself was 🥰
Put these two opposites together and you have some delicious chemistry and hot moments in some soundproof places 😘
✨Read if you love
- opposites attract
- forced proximity
- two queer college theatre kids (demi x bisexual rep)
- he falls first
- only on ebed
- caretaking and acts of service
- he remembers her coffee order
- he blushes
- “stay…”
Off Book is interconnected with Deja Vu (it’s about Jade’s roommates/bestie - Jessie and Mac) and I’ll definitely be diving into that one soon!
Jade is relationship and feelings avoidant due to her childhood (oh hello, it me). As I was reading I loved seeing her open up and let someone in. If you took Emma from Just for the Summer and made her a black cat girlie, you’d get Jade!
Ian, my precious little green bean, is the most gooey cinnamon roll green flag man ever. The way he develops throughout the story and shows such grace and understanding towards Jade AND himself was 🥰
Put these two opposites together and you have some delicious chemistry and hot moments in some soundproof places 😘
✨Read if you love
- opposites attract
- forced proximity
- two queer college theatre kids (demi x bisexual rep)
- he falls first
- only on ebed
- caretaking and acts of service
- he remembers her coffee order
- he blushes
- “stay…”
Off Book is interconnected with Deja Vu (it’s about Jade’s roommates/bestie - Jessie and Mac) and I’ll definitely be diving into that one soon!
September 24, 2024
This absolutely spoke to the theater nerd in me and the character development was amazing. Seeing them grow together was a fun journey.
Seeing the MCs learn from each other was amazing and I found them awkward but in a totally relatable way. It explored some tough topics but there were also so many funny and fun moments. Jade and Ian both discover so much about themselves through each other all because they were thrown together.
While reading Deja Vu prior to Off Book isn't required, I'd recommend it. It gives a lot of context to where Jade is at the beginning of the book. It also sets up the friendship between Jessie and Jade in a way I believe is helpful.
If you like:
College romance
Forced proximity
Theater
Personal growth
Interconnected stand alone
2/5 🌶
Seeing the MCs learn from each other was amazing and I found them awkward but in a totally relatable way. It explored some tough topics but there were also so many funny and fun moments. Jade and Ian both discover so much about themselves through each other all because they were thrown together.
While reading Deja Vu prior to Off Book isn't required, I'd recommend it. It gives a lot of context to where Jade is at the beginning of the book. It also sets up the friendship between Jessie and Jade in a way I believe is helpful.
If you like:
College romance
Forced proximity
Theater
Personal growth
Interconnected stand alone
2/5 🌶
September 28, 2024
Oh my goodness, what another freaking AHHHMAAAZZZING book by Liz Leiby! I'll be honest, Jade felt super selfish at first, but when I understood her history and backstory, I was so moved. Her growth was beautiful. I related to different aspects of her and Ian and absolutely loved the journey Liz took us on! Spectacular daaahhhhling!! 10/10!!!!
October 28, 2024
Thankyou for allowing me to have an ARC copy of this book! All opinions are my own:)
It started a bit slow for me because I’m not really a theater kid, lol. By the end though, I was in love with Jade and Ian’s story! I can’t wait to checkout Deja Bu now <3
It started a bit slow for me because I’m not really a theater kid, lol. By the end though, I was in love with Jade and Ian’s story! I can’t wait to checkout Deja Bu now <3
July 6, 2024
Easy, breezy, beautiful. Great nostalgia for all the theater kids and just enough spice to hook everyone else.
September 26, 2024
My theater heart had been longing for a theatre nerd romance novel for so long and boy this one delivered! I saw Sondheim mentioned on the first page and my heart was captured. Off Book is about two theatre tech students in the same program but had never had the chance to meet. In order to graduate, they need to complete an acting credit and are both casted together in the same one act. From there, the two stranger go from stage partners to friends to lovers with undeniable chemistry (and great pick up lines “Your lights look good”).
Main character Jade is such an amazing, brave character with a painful background and is the ultimate example of do not judge a book by its cover. Ian is a cinnamon roll and so sweet - he grows so much from start to end, learning to step outside his comfort zone. The more they learn about each other, the more their chemistry grows. Beware the tech booth after hours!
Theater is a place where difficult themes, subjects and emotions are explored and studied. Off Book also delves into the subjects of passion vs stability, family dynamics, self exploration, and mental health. Jade and Ian go through such highs and lows together but the story is well balanced with fun moments and enough musical and play references to make my heart sing. I would recommend this beautiful book to theater lovers but also to any romance lover who enjoys watching lovable characters find each other and grow.
Tropes:
College romance
Forced proximity
He falls first
We sleep better together
Theater kids
Medium spice
Triggers: alcoholism, bullying, mentions of suicide
Main character Jade is such an amazing, brave character with a painful background and is the ultimate example of do not judge a book by its cover. Ian is a cinnamon roll and so sweet - he grows so much from start to end, learning to step outside his comfort zone. The more they learn about each other, the more their chemistry grows. Beware the tech booth after hours!
Theater is a place where difficult themes, subjects and emotions are explored and studied. Off Book also delves into the subjects of passion vs stability, family dynamics, self exploration, and mental health. Jade and Ian go through such highs and lows together but the story is well balanced with fun moments and enough musical and play references to make my heart sing. I would recommend this beautiful book to theater lovers but also to any romance lover who enjoys watching lovable characters find each other and grow.
Tropes:
College romance
Forced proximity
He falls first
We sleep better together
Theater kids
Medium spice
Triggers: alcoholism, bullying, mentions of suicide
October 9, 2024
Liz has outdone herself with her new rom-com!
Read this if you like:
*Banter for days (Jade is queen)
*Characters that you root for and believable character development
*Spice that is EARNED and makes you blush
*Sensitively and care (Off Book features a character discovering his sexuality and it's sweet and soft and lovely)
*Good writing
*Reading about theater kids doing theater things
I laughed, I cried, I squealed with delight while reading Off Book. I especially connected to Jade's relationship with her mother and felt really seen/went on a highlighting frenzy. Liz's attention to detail with her characters makes them come alive on the page. You can feel the love she has for them, they are treated with care and their struggles are so realistic. And, boy, can she make you swoon. I love, love, love Ian.
After reading Deja Vu I was hoping her next book would be steamier and DID IT EVER DELIVER. Her writing is nostalgic for authors I love and manages to be both evocative and sparse (your girl does not spend 500 pages taking us in circles with her words). I can't say enough good things about this novel because I need you to read it. There is not enough good contemporary romance out there but there is one RIGHT HERE! This should be the blueprint all for college rom-coms.
I cannot wait to read anything and everything Liz writes next.
Read this if you like:
*Banter for days (Jade is queen)
*Characters that you root for and believable character development
*Spice that is EARNED and makes you blush
*Sensitively and care (Off Book features a character discovering his sexuality and it's sweet and soft and lovely)
*Good writing
*Reading about theater kids doing theater things
I laughed, I cried, I squealed with delight while reading Off Book. I especially connected to Jade's relationship with her mother and felt really seen/went on a highlighting frenzy. Liz's attention to detail with her characters makes them come alive on the page. You can feel the love she has for them, they are treated with care and their struggles are so realistic. And, boy, can she make you swoon. I love, love, love Ian.
After reading Deja Vu I was hoping her next book would be steamier and DID IT EVER DELIVER. Her writing is nostalgic for authors I love and manages to be both evocative and sparse (your girl does not spend 500 pages taking us in circles with her words). I can't say enough good things about this novel because I need you to read it. There is not enough good contemporary romance out there but there is one RIGHT HERE! This should be the blueprint all for college rom-coms.
I cannot wait to read anything and everything Liz writes next.
May 15, 2025
I picked this up during a “Stuff Your Kindle” haul—and y’all. I’M KINDA MAD ABOUT IT.
Because I would have paid full price for this gem. In fact, I did buy the paperback just to make sure Liz Leiby got the coins she deserves. And then I went and bought her other books because I’m now officially obsessed.
What hooked me? The stage theater setting. I was a total drama nerd in high school, and this book brought all that nostalgic, back-of-the-house, chaotic magic right to the page.
IAN. Oh my swoony stars. Green Flag Cinnamon Roll Hero with just the right dash of Alpha Dom Energy. We’re talking Gentleman in the Streets, Alpha in the Sheets. I LOVED HIM.
Now let’s talk about Jade. Not gonna lie—she threw me at first. But I think that’s on me for diving into this one before reading Deja Vu (Book 1). Having now read Deja Vu, I would have had zero issues with Jade in this book. Regardless, I still fell hard. By the 60% mark in Off Book, I was DONE FOR. Jade had officially become one of my favorite heroines. Complex, layered, and when she lets that curtain fall? Goosebumps.
If you love theater, cinnamon roll heroes, spicy slow burns, or just really good writing? GET THIS BOOK. And then join me in stalking the author’s page to see what brilliance she brings us next.
Because I would have paid full price for this gem. In fact, I did buy the paperback just to make sure Liz Leiby got the coins she deserves. And then I went and bought her other books because I’m now officially obsessed.
What hooked me? The stage theater setting. I was a total drama nerd in high school, and this book brought all that nostalgic, back-of-the-house, chaotic magic right to the page.
IAN. Oh my swoony stars. Green Flag Cinnamon Roll Hero with just the right dash of Alpha Dom Energy. We’re talking Gentleman in the Streets, Alpha in the Sheets. I LOVED HIM.
Now let’s talk about Jade. Not gonna lie—she threw me at first. But I think that’s on me for diving into this one before reading Deja Vu (Book 1). Having now read Deja Vu, I would have had zero issues with Jade in this book. Regardless, I still fell hard. By the 60% mark in Off Book, I was DONE FOR. Jade had officially become one of my favorite heroines. Complex, layered, and when she lets that curtain fall? Goosebumps.
If you love theater, cinnamon roll heroes, spicy slow burns, or just really good writing? GET THIS BOOK. And then join me in stalking the author’s page to see what brilliance she brings us next.
October 1, 2024
I received an Advanced Reader Copy, but this review is honest and voluntary.
Off Book is a theater kid rom com, and I loved every second of it. You don’t have to have been a theater kid to enjoy it, but I’m sure it will bring some nostalgia for those who were.
Off Book follows Jade and Ian who have to act together, despite having zero chemistry. When their director asks them to spend time outside of rehearsals to get to know each other better, they have different ideas of what that means.
I love how real these characters are. They were nervous and scared and vulnerable. They were also funny and goofy and loving. I love that two of my favorite scenes were when they went bowling or played bingo with friends.
I laughed. I cried. I fell so hard for these characters. I know I’ll be able to revisit this book when I need a pick me up, and I can’t wait to fall in love with Jade and Ian all over again.
Off Book is a theater kid rom com, and I loved every second of it. You don’t have to have been a theater kid to enjoy it, but I’m sure it will bring some nostalgia for those who were.
Off Book follows Jade and Ian who have to act together, despite having zero chemistry. When their director asks them to spend time outside of rehearsals to get to know each other better, they have different ideas of what that means.
I love how real these characters are. They were nervous and scared and vulnerable. They were also funny and goofy and loving. I love that two of my favorite scenes were when they went bowling or played bingo with friends.
I laughed. I cried. I fell so hard for these characters. I know I’ll be able to revisit this book when I need a pick me up, and I can’t wait to fall in love with Jade and Ian all over again.
September 30, 2024
I think this book has taught me that sometimes I need to give books a little more of a chance. I received an ARC of this book and to be completely honest, if I hadn’t I probably would have DNF’d early on. At the very beginning of the book I felt like some of the dialogue was reading really young/immature and I really really disliked the FMC. However, as I continued to read the banter improved significantly and Jade really began to grow on me as we got more of her story. I’ve read a lot of college romances but not any that take place within the theater department. This was a cute romance book but also had some heavier themes at times that I felt were addressed and handled well. In the end I really enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed the romance and the growth that both of the main characters take throughout the story. Ian is also just absolutely adorable.
October 28, 2024
I am enjoying following Leiby's career with each novel. I did not like Off Book as much as I liked Deja Vu. Even though this is technically a follow up to Deja Vu, you don't have to read it to follow the storyline in Off Book. I like the character development and the details about the theater for us theater geeks out there. Unfortunately, the story dragged on for me. You knew the two main characters were going to find their happily every after in the end, you just weren't sure how they were going to get there. If there was a secondary story about another character, like there was in Deja Vu, the Jade/Ian love story wouldn't have felt so drawn out. There were also loose ends with other characters that could have been addressed without taking away from the main story. If you like slow-burn romance with decent sex scenes, this is for you.
November 14, 2024
It was a slow start for me, considering my interest and knowledge with theater is very minimal. I had a hard time relating to the characters at first, and that had led me to put this book down on my first try to read. But I am so glad that I gave it another try and decided to pick it up again.
The character development and the progression of the story had started to get more captivating as Jade and Ian dug deeper into their belief of what love should be, and how they navigated through their emotions for each other even though it was the antithesis of what they have believed most of their life. The introspection and their vulnerabilities that were conveyed were so well-written that even as just a reader, I was sharing their pain and joy throughout the book.
I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that this book made me tear up.
The character development and the progression of the story had started to get more captivating as Jade and Ian dug deeper into their belief of what love should be, and how they navigated through their emotions for each other even though it was the antithesis of what they have believed most of their life. The introspection and their vulnerabilities that were conveyed were so well-written that even as just a reader, I was sharing their pain and joy throughout the book.
I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that this book made me tear up.
September 29, 2024
Thank you to the author for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review!
I'm going to be honest...the beginning of the book had me worried. I felt like a lot of the characters were caricatures of theater people. I went to college for theatre and I mean...yea we're weird. But this was a little cringe...the sexual innuendo jokes, the student director that speaks in different accents all the time, the character that is obsessed with Shakespeare. I'm so glad I kept going though because this was really such a good book! I fell in love with Jade and Ian's story. Their struggles and growth were so genuine. The scene when Jade finds her mom after going home to help her was so intense and heart-wrenching!
I hope to read more from this author in the future!
I'm going to be honest...the beginning of the book had me worried. I felt like a lot of the characters were caricatures of theater people. I went to college for theatre and I mean...yea we're weird. But this was a little cringe...the sexual innuendo jokes, the student director that speaks in different accents all the time, the character that is obsessed with Shakespeare. I'm so glad I kept going though because this was really such a good book! I fell in love with Jade and Ian's story. Their struggles and growth were so genuine. The scene when Jade finds her mom after going home to help her was so intense and heart-wrenching!
I hope to read more from this author in the future!
November 20, 2024
Off Book by Liz Leiby (@lizleibyauthor) is a theatre kids romance they never knew they needed! I absolutely adore this book and think it's a great romance read that touches on some heavier topics.
Jade and Ian may have seemed incompatible in the beginning, but as they work on their chemistry on stage, more is brewing in the wings. I loved seeing their relationship develop over the course of a semester and how they face challenges together (for the most part). If you're looking for your next romance read, look no further! 5/5 stars!
Jade and Ian may have seemed incompatible in the beginning, but as they work on their chemistry on stage, more is brewing in the wings. I loved seeing their relationship develop over the course of a semester and how they face challenges together (for the most part). If you're looking for your next romance read, look no further! 5/5 stars!
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