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Romance Isn't A Fantasy Book: A Sweet and Clean Fantasy Author RomCom Novella
One fantasy author.
One personal assistant .
One story that needs more romance—or else. Nicholas
All I want is to write epic fantasies in peace, none of this “add romance to your plot” business.
But my contract is on the line, and I’ve got to learn how to write something “swoony” and soon.
I don’t believe in myself, but for some reason, Laurel does. It’s why she’s the best assistant ever. Especially since she’s volunteered to help me learn why romance is important. If only she’d stop looking so cute–it’s distracting me from my blind dates.
Laurel
I was probably a little too eager when I volunteered to help Nicholas learn about romance. But listen, this is my chance. Because I have been in love with this man for as long as I’ve worked for him. Except, can I really take advantage of this situation? Is it worth risking our friendship and work relationship to open up about my feelings and who I am to Nicholas?
Guess I’m about to find out, because I can’t take seeing him go on blind dates any longer.
Romance Isn't A Fantasy Book is a sweet and clean, kisses only, romantic comedy novella.
One personal assistant .
One story that needs more romance—or else. Nicholas
All I want is to write epic fantasies in peace, none of this “add romance to your plot” business.
But my contract is on the line, and I’ve got to learn how to write something “swoony” and soon.
I don’t believe in myself, but for some reason, Laurel does. It’s why she’s the best assistant ever. Especially since she’s volunteered to help me learn why romance is important. If only she’d stop looking so cute–it’s distracting me from my blind dates.
Laurel
I was probably a little too eager when I volunteered to help Nicholas learn about romance. But listen, this is my chance. Because I have been in love with this man for as long as I’ve worked for him. Except, can I really take advantage of this situation? Is it worth risking our friendship and work relationship to open up about my feelings and who I am to Nicholas?
Guess I’m about to find out, because I can’t take seeing him go on blind dates any longer.
Romance Isn't A Fantasy Book is a sweet and clean, kisses only, romantic comedy novella.
149 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2024
8 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Madelyn Smith
7 books101 followersMadelyn Smith is a happy wife and mom by day and a reader and writer by night. After years of reading fantasy and romance books she felt inspired to start writing in 2023. Madelyn loves to read clean and closed-door romance and fantasy books, so she decided to write them too. With Christian elements in her books, her writing will be perfect for those who want a swoony romance, with a divine perspective.
When writing she likes to snack on pretzels and marshmallows, water, and any chocolate her husband surprises her with. Not to mention hostess donuts. Bring on all the hostess donuts.
During her day she can be found interacting on Bookstagram, playing legos and play-pretend with her two toddlers, or enjoying serving in her congregation as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Madelyn loves God, and gives all glory to Him who inspired her whole reading and writing journey.
If you're interested in what Madelyn is reading check out her review page on Instagram: @thesqueakycleanreader
For book updates check out her author page: @madelynsmithauthor on Instagram.
When writing she likes to snack on pretzels and marshmallows, water, and any chocolate her husband surprises her with. Not to mention hostess donuts. Bring on all the hostess donuts.
During her day she can be found interacting on Bookstagram, playing legos and play-pretend with her two toddlers, or enjoying serving in her congregation as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Madelyn loves God, and gives all glory to Him who inspired her whole reading and writing journey.
If you're interested in what Madelyn is reading check out her review page on Instagram: @thesqueakycleanreader
For book updates check out her author page: @madelynsmithauthor on Instagram.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 5, 2024
Short and sweet, this novella is full of funny, swoony, and so many other amazing moments.
July 6, 2024
This novella was so sweet and so fun! Ahhh! I really loved the characters shared history and how it affected their feelings for each other. The grand gesture was a *chefs kiss*.
Favorite quote from Laurel’s perspective:
“No, I don’t have a boyfriend.” I pause for only a moment before more words flow from my mouth. “Why? Would you be jealous if I did?” I can’t believe I just said that. I can’t believe I just said that. What is my mouth thinking? How did that get past my gates of “no hinting at your feelings for Nicholas” that’s locked with a key I threw away? I threw it away because he is my boss and I can't risk losing this job which is the best job I've ever had.
Favorite quote from Nicolas’ perspective
Nothing feels natural anymore. I am hyper aware of Laurel and don’t know how to handle it.
Favorite quote from Laurel’s perspective:
“No, I don’t have a boyfriend.” I pause for only a moment before more words flow from my mouth. “Why? Would you be jealous if I did?” I can’t believe I just said that. I can’t believe I just said that. What is my mouth thinking? How did that get past my gates of “no hinting at your feelings for Nicholas” that’s locked with a key I threw away? I threw it away because he is my boss and I can't risk losing this job which is the best job I've ever had.
Favorite quote from Nicolas’ perspective
Nothing feels natural anymore. I am hyper aware of Laurel and don’t know how to handle it.
July 6, 2024
Madelyn does it again!!
I loved so many things about this novella. For one, I related to the male main character so much. Romance is something I find very difficult to write in my own books. Maybe I can learn from this?
The secret pen pal is a trope I've seen before but I like how it is used here. As the romance blooms, the screenname breaks down. It was a nice thing.
The setting made everything so real to me as all the locations that are set here have a personal connection to my own history.
A nice quick, fun romance that is guaranteed to have you swooning by the end.
PS I'm looking forward to all the Salvare books as they come, in whatever form they take.
I loved so many things about this novella. For one, I related to the male main character so much. Romance is something I find very difficult to write in my own books. Maybe I can learn from this?
The secret pen pal is a trope I've seen before but I like how it is used here. As the romance blooms, the screenname breaks down. It was a nice thing.
The setting made everything so real to me as all the locations that are set here have a personal connection to my own history.
A nice quick, fun romance that is guaranteed to have you swooning by the end.
PS I'm looking forward to all the Salvare books as they come, in whatever form they take.
January 18, 2025
Romance Isn’t A Fantasy Book
by: Madelyn Smith
@madelynsmithauthor
-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~One fantasy author. One personal assistant. One story that needs more romance-or else...
“Love changes characters and helps them become
better.”
-Friends, discovering dear @madelynsmithauthor and her writing this past year has been such a delight. I cannot get enough of her delightful stories filled with all the wonderful things including a snack list to accompany the story within. What fun!
-Simply put, Romance Isn’t A Fantasy Book, is a happy short story that will make you and your heart smile! It is a charming novella wonderfully weaved with relatable and endearing characters, delightful humor, fantastic banter, such swoony moments, forced proximity, a sweet and happy ending, no spice, and even a grand gesture. It’s a lighthearted story with heart! Now, let’s talk facts: You can get this dear story by signing up for @madelynsmithauthor newsletter! So do yourself a favor and go sign up asap for this charming story that is worth the read as are her other stories! 🙌🏻📚🩷
“There would be no happily ever after without you. There is no happiness and joy without you. You are my everything.”
-Content: bad dates, main male character's parents were divorced while he was young. It is mentioned briefly, kisses (mild).
#romanceisntafantasybook
#madelynsmith
#allaboutthebestreads
“You come first. Always.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Relationships are not just about love, they’re about companionship through life’s hardships. Someone to share your burdens with.”
by: Madelyn Smith
@madelynsmithauthor
-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~One fantasy author. One personal assistant. One story that needs more romance-or else...
“Love changes characters and helps them become
better.”
-Friends, discovering dear @madelynsmithauthor and her writing this past year has been such a delight. I cannot get enough of her delightful stories filled with all the wonderful things including a snack list to accompany the story within. What fun!
-Simply put, Romance Isn’t A Fantasy Book, is a happy short story that will make you and your heart smile! It is a charming novella wonderfully weaved with relatable and endearing characters, delightful humor, fantastic banter, such swoony moments, forced proximity, a sweet and happy ending, no spice, and even a grand gesture. It’s a lighthearted story with heart! Now, let’s talk facts: You can get this dear story by signing up for @madelynsmithauthor newsletter! So do yourself a favor and go sign up asap for this charming story that is worth the read as are her other stories! 🙌🏻📚🩷
“There would be no happily ever after without you. There is no happiness and joy without you. You are my everything.”
-Content: bad dates, main male character's parents were divorced while he was young. It is mentioned briefly, kisses (mild).
#romanceisntafantasybook
#madelynsmith
#allaboutthebestreads
“You come first. Always.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Relationships are not just about love, they’re about companionship through life’s hardships. Someone to share your burdens with.”
August 14, 2024
Love, loved this book! 🥰 Review to come!
September 3, 2025
5 ⭐️ clean Rom-com novella
🖊️ “Romance Isn’t a Fantasy Novel” by Madelyn Smith
🚨 CONTENT RATINGS/WARNINGS
* KISSING: 16&up
* For longing to kiss only
* Fade-to-black: none
* Violence: none
* Assault: none
* Language: none
#️⃣ standalone novella
🗓️ FORMAT / AVAILABILITY
* available now
* Free through Madelyn’s newsletter
* Kindle Unlimited
* Kindle
* Paperback
♥️ TROPES:
* boss + employee
* Fantasy author + assistant
* She own a fan page about his books
* Bald MMC
* She’s his dating coach
* She’s loved him for 2+ years
📝 REVIEW:
I loved how fast pace this was! Everything flowed so well in such a short amount of time. It was packed with swoony moments that kept me begging for more!
I also loved that he was an unconventional main male character (MMC). It added a new fun element to his character, and honestly helped show that she truly was the one for him.
Everything about this book was so good! So if you’re looking for an afternoon read filled with the no-spice romance you love, what are you waiting for?
🖊️ “Romance Isn’t a Fantasy Novel” by Madelyn Smith
🚨 CONTENT RATINGS/WARNINGS
* KISSING: 16&up
* For longing to kiss only
* Fade-to-black: none
* Violence: none
* Assault: none
* Language: none
#️⃣ standalone novella
🗓️ FORMAT / AVAILABILITY
* available now
* Free through Madelyn’s newsletter
* Kindle Unlimited
* Kindle
* Paperback
♥️ TROPES:
* boss + employee
* Fantasy author + assistant
* She own a fan page about his books
* Bald MMC
* She’s his dating coach
* She’s loved him for 2+ years
📝 REVIEW:
I loved how fast pace this was! Everything flowed so well in such a short amount of time. It was packed with swoony moments that kept me begging for more!
I also loved that he was an unconventional main male character (MMC). It added a new fun element to his character, and honestly helped show that she truly was the one for him.
Everything about this book was so good! So if you’re looking for an afternoon read filled with the no-spice romance you love, what are you waiting for?
July 8, 2024
When Madelyn Smith put it out there that she was working on novellas to share in her newsletters, I was certainly intrigued by what could await us. I think the thing that made me most curious was the title and how to this could play out!
Nicholas is a successful fantasy writer, who has just been dealt a crushing blow to his ego, if he doesn’t start including romance that his publishing deal could in jeopardy! What is a writer, who has no love life to do?! Ask his assistant to set him up! Perfect! What could go wrong?!
Laurel is Nicholas’ assistant, Instagram fan account owner (he doesn’t know), and the woman who has been secretly crushing on him! She will do most anything to help him out, not just because it’s her job… she will even help set him up on a date, if it helps inspire him! Although seeing him go on dates might just might slowly break her heart!
The moments in this book are spot on for what they need to be! I know that sounds cryptic but trust me they are chef’s kiss! Madelyn threw a lot in this, and I wouldn’t change a thing! Bravo! So, grab a pastry of your choosing and read this novella!
Nicholas is a successful fantasy writer, who has just been dealt a crushing blow to his ego, if he doesn’t start including romance that his publishing deal could in jeopardy! What is a writer, who has no love life to do?! Ask his assistant to set him up! Perfect! What could go wrong?!
Laurel is Nicholas’ assistant, Instagram fan account owner (he doesn’t know), and the woman who has been secretly crushing on him! She will do most anything to help him out, not just because it’s her job… she will even help set him up on a date, if it helps inspire him! Although seeing him go on dates might just might slowly break her heart!
The moments in this book are spot on for what they need to be! I know that sounds cryptic but trust me they are chef’s kiss! Madelyn threw a lot in this, and I wouldn’t change a thing! Bravo! So, grab a pastry of your choosing and read this novella!
January 10, 2025
This is the cutest novella! I laughed out loud so many times it was a good thing I was alone. Nicholas and Laurel's awkwardness was so relatable, and I was left curled up on my bed and giggling like I was the one in love.
Go get some brownies and get cozy with this cute and quick read!
Go get some brownies and get cozy with this cute and quick read!
August 2, 2025
Some great moments! It was hard jumping into the middle of the relationship, like it wasn’t earned.
December 3, 2025
Super cute! With a bunch of my favorite tropes 😊
July 4, 2024
This is a cute and sweet story, and I’m glad I read it!
July 15, 2024
She included a snack list! I love that she thinks about these things.
This was a cute novella that just makes you happy. At least for me it ended with squealing on the couch at the cuteness (yes my husband was giving me side eye about it lol).
Immediately upon finishing I texted my best friend and told her to go signup for Madelyn’s newsletter so she could squeal with me 🙂 I love when authors give us a taste of their writing with free novellas but I already knew this author is fabulous, just need to spread the word so everyone knows!
Now to talk her into sharing Nicholas’ books with us…
Content:
Style - Dual POV, Contemporary RomCom (Workplace & Friends to More)
Intimacy - Mild (somehow she got sizzle but kept the kisses low descriptive, crazy talented!)
Language - None
Violence - None
Potential Triggers - Bad dates
This was a cute novella that just makes you happy. At least for me it ended with squealing on the couch at the cuteness (yes my husband was giving me side eye about it lol).
Immediately upon finishing I texted my best friend and told her to go signup for Madelyn’s newsletter so she could squeal with me 🙂 I love when authors give us a taste of their writing with free novellas but I already knew this author is fabulous, just need to spread the word so everyone knows!
Now to talk her into sharing Nicholas’ books with us…
Content:
Style - Dual POV, Contemporary RomCom (Workplace & Friends to More)
Intimacy - Mild (somehow she got sizzle but kept the kisses low descriptive, crazy talented!)
Language - None
Violence - None
Potential Triggers - Bad dates
July 13, 2024
Madelyn smith has done it again. I so loved her debut, and this novella is just as good! Amazing banter, check. Ultimate swoon moments, check. Happy Ending, check! This book was just so beautiful and made me feel so happy! The ending was the absolute sweetest and I can’t wait for her next book!!
October 4, 2024
This novella is absolutely enchanting! Their story unfolds in a delightful, swoon-worthy, and endearing manner. This no-spice romance, filled with humor and charm, is expertly packaged in a quick novella. I couldn’t get enough of it. 😍
June 12, 2025
Spice: some kisses
Language: none
A cute novella
Nicholas is a successful fantasy author who is told he needs to add romance to his books to continue selling as much. He gave up on dating years ago and has no idea why people think romance is important, in real life or fantasy novels.
Laurel is his assistant who is not only his number one fan who knows his work inside and out and helps him succeed, she is also secretly in love with him and is his online best friend with her alter ego Instagram acct.
Nick requests Laurel’s help in learning about romance so that he can correctly write it into his book. This leads to some disastrous blind dates and some cute tropey romantic moments between the two.
Nick realized that he’s been in love with Laurel for awhile and that she’s the only girl he wants to romance. They give it a shot but it’s almost ruined by Laurel’s alter ego being revealed. Nick feels hurt and betrayed and pushes her away.
He later apologizes and makes up in the cutest way and they reconcile and have a cute epilogue together.
My only complaint is that I wish it was a full book instead of a novella since I want more about their relationship.
Language: none
A cute novella
Nicholas is a successful fantasy author who is told he needs to add romance to his books to continue selling as much. He gave up on dating years ago and has no idea why people think romance is important, in real life or fantasy novels.
Laurel is his assistant who is not only his number one fan who knows his work inside and out and helps him succeed, she is also secretly in love with him and is his online best friend with her alter ego Instagram acct.
Nick requests Laurel’s help in learning about romance so that he can correctly write it into his book. This leads to some disastrous blind dates and some cute tropey romantic moments between the two.
Nick realized that he’s been in love with Laurel for awhile and that she’s the only girl he wants to romance. They give it a shot but it’s almost ruined by Laurel’s alter ego being revealed. Nick feels hurt and betrayed and pushes her away.
He later apologizes and makes up in the cutest way and they reconcile and have a cute epilogue together.
My only complaint is that I wish it was a full book instead of a novella since I want more about their relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2025
I just love Madelyn’s writing and this was her first novella and I loved it just as much as her full length novels. With her book I know I can go in for a fun sweet swoony funny time! I always find my self giggling at the sometimes nerdy humor she puts in her books. I love that she includes references to books and movies it’s like little Easter eggs or inside jokes if you have seen the movies or read the books.
This novella had me kicking my feet and giggling I was laughing so hard at Laurel teaching Nicholas how to write romance into his fantasy books. My favorite part was the kissing scene cause I love books that have kissing scenes lol. This was just so sweet and swoony and it left me smiling the whole time and I felt happier after reading it!
This novella had me kicking my feet and giggling I was laughing so hard at Laurel teaching Nicholas how to write romance into his fantasy books. My favorite part was the kissing scene cause I love books that have kissing scenes lol. This was just so sweet and swoony and it left me smiling the whole time and I felt happier after reading it!
May 17, 2025
I’m embarrassed to say it has taken me this long to read this adorable novella! I think what I love most about Madelyn’s books is that there is so much heart and love put into them; reading them is like getting a hug from a friend you haven’t seen in a while. And this novella is no different.
I love Nicholas and Laurel. From their back and forth banter to both of them overcoming insecurities, they are just adorable! If you want a quick, fun, and lighthearted book, this one is for you!
I love Nicholas and Laurel. From their back and forth banter to both of them overcoming insecurities, they are just adorable! If you want a quick, fun, and lighthearted book, this one is for you!
August 8, 2025
I quite literally cannot say how good this story is!
I love fantasy. I love romance. I love workplace I love dating coach I love authors, there is not a single thing about this story that I did not love. Nicholas learns the importance of love, and Laurel learns to be brave and KISS THE MAN 😍😍😍 if you’re looking for the sweetest, quickest, make you squeal and giggle story to give you that fix of HEA happiness, LOOK NO FURTHER!! This is so cute. Read it now!!
I love fantasy. I love romance. I love workplace I love dating coach I love authors, there is not a single thing about this story that I did not love. Nicholas learns the importance of love, and Laurel learns to be brave and KISS THE MAN 😍😍😍 if you’re looking for the sweetest, quickest, make you squeal and giggle story to give you that fix of HEA happiness, LOOK NO FURTHER!! This is so cute. Read it now!!
November 20, 2025
This lil novella had a lot of heart. I looooved the premise of a fantasy author learning to write romance by practicing in real life! And the good descriptions. Yall I read this while pregnant and that’s a potent combo, because the food in this book is dangerously delicious and I did make some yummies more than once during this short read.
The ending is especially satisfying and beautiful, and I love it so so much!
The ending is especially satisfying and beautiful, and I love it so so much!
February 5, 2025
This was a short, sweet, and cute novella about an author whose fans and publisher are pressuring him to incorporate more romance into his books when he doesn't understand why romance is important. The romance between him and Laurel was so sweet and tender and I loved the romantic tension between them. This was a great read and I can't wait to read more by Madelyn Smith!
July 13, 2024
This was a fun little book. Made you feel happy when reading it. It did get a bit cringey and made me roll my eyes a few times which is why it’s not 5 stars. But I enjoyed it and I’m glad I read it and would recommend.
June 8, 2025
Laurel and Nicholas
Cute, quick read. Cute characters. Cute story. Cute everything.
Here's an example or a cute excerpt:
"I lean back in my chair and fold my hands behind my head. Picture of casualty thy name is Nicholas."
Cute, quick read. Cute characters. Cute story. Cute everything.
Here's an example or a cute excerpt:
"I lean back in my chair and fold my hands behind my head. Picture of casualty thy name is Nicholas."
June 27, 2025
I absolutely loved this ARC novella. Nicholas and Laurel were so admirable. I loved their chemistry and shared history. I loved the cute, unique storyline. There was not as much banter in this novella, but it did not take away from the story line one bit!
July 2, 2025
This was such a cute, short and sweet story! Absolutely perfect after finishing some longer books lately! And I love the included snack lists, as always with Madelyn’s books. I’m ready for some brownies now 😋
September 27, 2025
Adorable!
This was a sweet, low angst, Hallmark with a dash of faith. I listened to it (had Alexa read it to me) in a couple of hours and enjoyed every bit. It had a good pace and likeable characters. 🚫🤬🚫🌶️ just sweet kisses.
This was a sweet, low angst, Hallmark with a dash of faith. I listened to it (had Alexa read it to me) in a couple of hours and enjoyed every bit. It had a good pace and likeable characters. 🚫🤬🚫🌶️ just sweet kisses.
July 5, 2024
7/4- Review tomorrow!
7/5- READ. THIS. SOON!!
Nicolas and Laurel’s story was so cute 🥰 and the faith Elements (prayer) were great to include as well!
7/5- READ. THIS. SOON!!
Nicolas and Laurel’s story was so cute 🥰 and the faith Elements (prayer) were great to include as well!
August 6, 2024
Adorable! Fun! Lighthearted! Quick! I am in awe of how cute this novella was and am excited to read Winning My Queen to see more of Madelyn Smith’s writing.
August 24, 2024
I really enjoyed this story.
Content: clean
Content: clean
May 29, 2025
Pretty fun antics, & relatable. Nice romance.
And I like that: “romance novels help us to feel like we’re lovable.”
And I like that: “romance novels help us to feel like we’re lovable.”
November 10, 2025
* This is book 1 in the Romance Isn't Series and can be read as a standalone.
* First person dual pov
* Spice: kisses that don't get too heated
* CW: Read the author's note for more
From start to finish, Laurel & Nicholas' romance had me smiling. I loved the partnership that they had & how it developed to romance. I loved how Laurel truly knew Nicholas & how he valued her & her thoughts. This may be a novella, but it will give you all the feelings that you want from a sweet & clean romance.
* First person dual pov
* Spice: kisses that don't get too heated
* CW: Read the author's note for more
From start to finish, Laurel & Nicholas' romance had me smiling. I loved the partnership that they had & how it developed to romance. I loved how Laurel truly knew Nicholas & how he valued her & her thoughts. This may be a novella, but it will give you all the feelings that you want from a sweet & clean romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews