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Romance Is Dead
Roses are red, violets are blue, romance is dead - but is their love true?
Scream queen Quinn has had it with scary movies. After years as Hollywood's horror It Girl, she's sick of the tabloids and the off-screen drama. So she's decided: one last film, before quitting for good.
All that stands in her way is leading man Teddy James. Reality TV star and renowned playboy Teddy has looks to kill for, but absolutely no talent. AKA, Quinn's worst nightmare.
That's until they stumble - literally - across a dead body on set. Everyone believes it's a tragic accident, but Quinn's not convinced. So she offers Teddy an acting lessons in exchange for his help investigating. And as Teddy and Quinn dig deeper, she begins to wonder what's most at risk here - their lives, or her heart?
Scream queen Quinn has had it with scary movies. After years as Hollywood's horror It Girl, she's sick of the tabloids and the off-screen drama. So she's decided: one last film, before quitting for good.
All that stands in her way is leading man Teddy James. Reality TV star and renowned playboy Teddy has looks to kill for, but absolutely no talent. AKA, Quinn's worst nightmare.
That's until they stumble - literally - across a dead body on set. Everyone believes it's a tragic accident, but Quinn's not convinced. So she offers Teddy an acting lessons in exchange for his help investigating. And as Teddy and Quinn dig deeper, she begins to wonder what's most at risk here - their lives, or her heart?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2025
5 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 18, 2025
As someone who loves romance books, a good mystery and horror movies, this book combines the three perfectly into a story that I couldn’t get enough of.
I loved seeing Quinn and Teddy fall for each other. From their banter to the sexy acting lessons, they had incredible chemistry and I was kicking my feet at parts.
I also never thought I would be swooning at someone giving Jigsaw (the mastermind in the Saw movies) as a nickname.
The movie set setting worked well too. Whether it was getting an insight into how unsexy sex scenes can be to the dynamics on set - from the props department to the director - this drew me in.
As for the horror movie elements, you can tell that this author knows her stuff and is as big a fan as I am. I loved all the references and ways that it was cleverly woven into the story.
I did have a pretty good indication as to who the killer would turn it to be, and I was right. But it didn’t lessen the enjoyment for me and made a lot of sense.
Let's just say, I will be raving about this book to anyone who will listen. And what a debut.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved seeing Quinn and Teddy fall for each other. From their banter to the sexy acting lessons, they had incredible chemistry and I was kicking my feet at parts.
I also never thought I would be swooning at someone giving Jigsaw (the mastermind in the Saw movies) as a nickname.
The movie set setting worked well too. Whether it was getting an insight into how unsexy sex scenes can be to the dynamics on set - from the props department to the director - this drew me in.
As for the horror movie elements, you can tell that this author knows her stuff and is as big a fan as I am. I loved all the references and ways that it was cleverly woven into the story.
I did have a pretty good indication as to who the killer would turn it to be, and I was right. But it didn’t lessen the enjoyment for me and made a lot of sense.
Let's just say, I will be raving about this book to anyone who will listen. And what a debut.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2025
4.5⭐️
‘Romance Is Dead’ was a great mix of a realistic, tension filled romance build up with also a captivating, complex murder mystery plot.
Every time you thought you knew who the murderer was, it was proved wrong.
And the one person I was adamant it was, turned out to be innocent and it was someone I never expected.
I loved the writing style of the book and feel as though the author put a lot of time and effort into it. Especially with all the mentions of other horror movies and horror characters.
I would happily recommend this book to people.
‘Romance Is Dead’ was a great mix of a realistic, tension filled romance build up with also a captivating, complex murder mystery plot.
Every time you thought you knew who the murderer was, it was proved wrong.
And the one person I was adamant it was, turned out to be innocent and it was someone I never expected.
I loved the writing style of the book and feel as though the author put a lot of time and effort into it. Especially with all the mentions of other horror movies and horror characters.
I would happily recommend this book to people.
June 12, 2025
This is a great mix of a romance story and a captivating thriller plot set on a horror movie set. I don't think I've ever read a book like this before but I enjoyed every page of it.
I was surprised by the reveal of the killer and thought it was brilliantly done.
thank you Netgalley and Quercus Books for the digital ARC
I was surprised by the reveal of the killer and thought it was brilliantly done.
thank you Netgalley and Quercus Books for the digital ARC
July 19, 2025
4.5-5⭐️
ahhh I loved this book! it was so cute and adorable with the main characters connection but also intriguing with the murder mystery subplot.
Once I read the blurb in Waterstones, I knew this film inspired narrative would be well up my street 😂, and it definitely was!
The Plot:
The plot was good, it was quite basic and predictable in some respects. Although, the romance and character building made up for it. As someone who dislikes horror movies 🍿, the dialogue and descriptions were pretty PG which I really liked. It wasn’t too scary or gory, it succeeded in capturing the behind the scenes of the creative industry. As I’m going into film and tv myself, I loved learning more about the role responsibilities. Such as: prop master, gaffer, lighting technicians and sound operators. It really excited me and Katie Bohn perfectly executed her research! Especially with the film references!
The Characters
Quinn: I liked her as a FMC, she was a visual representation of someone who is unsure with their future path and took one step at a time. She had her quirks, humorous attitude and professionalism of acting. I thought in the epilogue she would explore teaching acting to others and a potential career, giving rehearsing with Teddy. Although, her becoming a Director and creating a story based off the message behind this book. It was a good spinoff. Portraying how fame can affect someone, positive and negative.
Teddy: LOVED HIM!! He was such a good descriptive character in the sense of, omg he’s so hot and respectful and funny. I think the constant reminder of Quinn’s romantic interest with him, made me put myself in her shoes. I actually was questioning “what would it be like to feel all of these butterflies with a crush and get so nervous in their presence??” Then I embarrassingly reminded myself that these are words on paper 😭 but oh well. Thanks Katie Bohn, you made me think of my type 😝. The reassurance to Quinn’s character was adorable, he protected her but not like obsessively. Justtt righttt. THE EPILOGUE WAS CUTE AND THOUGHTFUL!
Mara: I won’t lie. I generally thought there would be a plot twist and have her revealed as the killer 😂 I think that would have been quite good. Quinn really did mistreat her as a friend, however I understand why she just kept the murder mystery secret to her and Teddy. (I did want maybe one more scene of Quinn and Teddy rehearsing their lines together… tension!!!)
Her saving the day at the end, queen. I also liked her role as a makeup artist. It was different and exhilarating!
Brent: He was just one of those f*ck boy characters. I don’t think he deserved to have the peanut allergic reaction and die though 😭. I wanted to learn more about his secrets and the comment of “they know your snooping” - that wasn’t the quote but something on the lines to it lol.
Aubrey: Her acting story and changing her whole identity with surgery was so sad. Katie done a good job of emphasising the positives and negatives of the screen industry. How fame can affect somebody’s personal life and self worth.
Chloe: She needed help 😭 I thought her being the killer was predictable as she was the last group member left without a lead. Although the ending was slightly rushed. Her motives were just primarily jealousy and Quinn asking to have her permission to be featured in her directed movie was strange. Didn’t she try to kill you and you’re starring her in your film and purchasing her book or something??
Natasha: She needs a long and relaxed spa day.
Quinns dad: It was nice to read a dynamic in the storyline. Them bonding over horror films and relating back to Quinn’s childhood was sweet and wholesome. Especially her dad being the most famous horror villain.
Trevor: Him being so important at the start made me instantly think he’ll be a victim of some sort. His secret identity of bringing celebrities down with negative stereotypes was just sad. The fact he done that for a living.. he had nothing better to do.. but I don’t think he deserved to die. They got over his death really quickly 😐, especially Natasha 💪🏼💪🏼
Overall, my rating ranged variously. I really liked it. I want to read more engaging story’s which include a subject I want to participate in. Film and tv 📺
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a fun and investing narrative! So quick to get through!! 😊😊😊
ahhh I loved this book! it was so cute and adorable with the main characters connection but also intriguing with the murder mystery subplot.
Once I read the blurb in Waterstones, I knew this film inspired narrative would be well up my street 😂, and it definitely was!
The Plot:
The plot was good, it was quite basic and predictable in some respects. Although, the romance and character building made up for it. As someone who dislikes horror movies 🍿, the dialogue and descriptions were pretty PG which I really liked. It wasn’t too scary or gory, it succeeded in capturing the behind the scenes of the creative industry. As I’m going into film and tv myself, I loved learning more about the role responsibilities. Such as: prop master, gaffer, lighting technicians and sound operators. It really excited me and Katie Bohn perfectly executed her research! Especially with the film references!
The Characters
Quinn: I liked her as a FMC, she was a visual representation of someone who is unsure with their future path and took one step at a time. She had her quirks, humorous attitude and professionalism of acting. I thought in the epilogue she would explore teaching acting to others and a potential career, giving rehearsing with Teddy. Although, her becoming a Director and creating a story based off the message behind this book. It was a good spinoff. Portraying how fame can affect someone, positive and negative.
Teddy: LOVED HIM!! He was such a good descriptive character in the sense of, omg he’s so hot and respectful and funny. I think the constant reminder of Quinn’s romantic interest with him, made me put myself in her shoes. I actually was questioning “what would it be like to feel all of these butterflies with a crush and get so nervous in their presence??” Then I embarrassingly reminded myself that these are words on paper 😭 but oh well. Thanks Katie Bohn, you made me think of my type 😝. The reassurance to Quinn’s character was adorable, he protected her but not like obsessively. Justtt righttt. THE EPILOGUE WAS CUTE AND THOUGHTFUL!
Mara: I won’t lie. I generally thought there would be a plot twist and have her revealed as the killer 😂 I think that would have been quite good. Quinn really did mistreat her as a friend, however I understand why she just kept the murder mystery secret to her and Teddy. (I did want maybe one more scene of Quinn and Teddy rehearsing their lines together… tension!!!)
Her saving the day at the end, queen. I also liked her role as a makeup artist. It was different and exhilarating!
Brent: He was just one of those f*ck boy characters. I don’t think he deserved to have the peanut allergic reaction and die though 😭. I wanted to learn more about his secrets and the comment of “they know your snooping” - that wasn’t the quote but something on the lines to it lol.
Aubrey: Her acting story and changing her whole identity with surgery was so sad. Katie done a good job of emphasising the positives and negatives of the screen industry. How fame can affect somebody’s personal life and self worth.
Chloe: She needed help 😭 I thought her being the killer was predictable as she was the last group member left without a lead. Although the ending was slightly rushed. Her motives were just primarily jealousy and Quinn asking to have her permission to be featured in her directed movie was strange. Didn’t she try to kill you and you’re starring her in your film and purchasing her book or something??
Natasha: She needs a long and relaxed spa day.
Quinns dad: It was nice to read a dynamic in the storyline. Them bonding over horror films and relating back to Quinn’s childhood was sweet and wholesome. Especially her dad being the most famous horror villain.
Trevor: Him being so important at the start made me instantly think he’ll be a victim of some sort. His secret identity of bringing celebrities down with negative stereotypes was just sad. The fact he done that for a living.. he had nothing better to do.. but I don’t think he deserved to die. They got over his death really quickly 😐, especially Natasha 💪🏼💪🏼
Overall, my rating ranged variously. I really liked it. I want to read more engaging story’s which include a subject I want to participate in. Film and tv 📺
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a fun and investing narrative! So quick to get through!! 😊😊😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
Jaaa echt een prima boekje. De romance in dit boek vond ik echt heel erg geweldig en ook dat het zich afspeelt op een movie set, even wat anders dan de sport romance. Het mysterie gedeelte vond ik wat minder. Het is voorspelbaar en het einde vond ik veel te overhaast geschreven. De moordenaar stond in de kelder met een pistool en de politie kwam gewoon casual naar beneden gelopen en nam haar gelijk mee. Voelde beetje gek.
November 16, 2025
3.25 ⭐️ Ik vond het begin van het boek super leuk en was heel erg benieuwd naar het mystery gedeelte van het boek. Ik vond het richting het einde alleen niet super goed uitgewerkt. Daarom niet mega enthousiast maar wel gewoon een leuk boek!
June 6, 2025
(***) Ahhh!!! I absolutely LOVED this book. I devoured it in 2 days it was so good. It had me staying awake until 5am to finish it and then I was so sad it was over. Firstly, I loved the setting. A horror movie set?! Um, yes please! Such a unique setting for a book that I haven't seen before. Quinn is a horror movie scream queen filming what only she knows is her last ever movie. Teddy, is a reality tv star turned actor who... kinda sucks. A little bad history from a failed previous hookup between the two sets the tension for an enemies to lovers romance - even if Quinn is the only one considering them enemies ;) When they both find a dead body they team up to solve the murder no one believes is a murder. In exchange for acting lessons for poor Teddy. I instantly loved Teddy. He struck me as far more than the pretty Love Island style himbo that Quinn set him up to be. I loved how he was with Quinn and the banter between the two. Quinn struck me as slightly uptight (or even jaded, given her history) and Teddy really helped lighten her up and soften her character. Plus, I love that he nicknamed her 'Jigsaw', I'm a sucker for nicknames and something about this one just really made me smile. The chemistry between Teddy and Quinn was strong from the beginning and the slow burn of their relationship had me not wanting to put the book down. I also really enjoyed the murder mystery element of this story, it was well done and it wasn't until maybe one or two chapters before the reveal, that I started to think I knew who the killer was. When I was proven right, I felt incredibly vindicated. I giggled, smiled and even kicked my feet in excitement over this book, I loved it that much. Overall, I loved everything about this book from start to finish. I didn't want to put it down but I also didn't want it to end either. I will absolutely be adding this book to my re-reading list because it was just that good. If you're a lover of enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, good banter and even a little murder mystery, then this book is absolutely the book for you! I highly recommend this book to all my fellow book lovers!
*** I received a copy of this book as an ARC. All opinions are my own and have in no way been influenced by receiving this book for free.
*** I received a copy of this book as an ARC. All opinions are my own and have in no way been influenced by receiving this book for free.
July 26, 2025
Mystery, thriller, romance—what isn’t there to love. This one kept me guessing, and kept me turning pages. I developed a real soft slot for Teddy as the book progressed, too!
October 25, 2025
the murder mystery in this was quite entertaining but the romance was a little too insta-lovey and cringe for me
June 7, 2025
first off a huge thank you to NetGalley for providing an arc of this book! 🥹🩷
I really enjoyed this! It’s the perfect mix of a cozy crime and a really well thought out romance. I loved the pacing, I didn’t feel like it was too rushed. I thought that when things come to fruition just made sense, and were extremely hooking! It’s clear that for a debut novel, Ms Bohn has so much talent!
The plot was so well thought out and SO much fun, I didn’t see the twist coming at all! I found it just added that extra little bit of spice to a romance book.
I think the MMC was an absolute cutie, and I really loved our FMC too!!! I don’t think I’ve read anything involving actors in Hollywood so this was SO fun, everything was explained so well and just made so much sense!
A wonderful debut novel, so much fun. Highly recommend picking this up 🩷
I really enjoyed this! It’s the perfect mix of a cozy crime and a really well thought out romance. I loved the pacing, I didn’t feel like it was too rushed. I thought that when things come to fruition just made sense, and were extremely hooking! It’s clear that for a debut novel, Ms Bohn has so much talent!
The plot was so well thought out and SO much fun, I didn’t see the twist coming at all! I found it just added that extra little bit of spice to a romance book.
I think the MMC was an absolute cutie, and I really loved our FMC too!!! I don’t think I’ve read anything involving actors in Hollywood so this was SO fun, everything was explained so well and just made so much sense!
A wonderful debut novel, so much fun. Highly recommend picking this up 🩷
Read
December 10, 2024Bohn does what is almost impossible by expertly balancing a (very) sexy romance plot with a gripping whodunnit. This itched a spot that I’ve been looking to itch for AGES; a page turning mystery that lets the romantic connection take the lead.
Devoured this in a day & thoroughly enjoyed every minute 🥰
Devoured this in a day & thoroughly enjoyed every minute 🥰
June 10, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for an e-arc.
It was so fun. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I do love a murder mystery with some comedy thrown in. I enjoyed the setting in this book, especially seeing behind the scenes of a movie set.
I would have loved a little more in-depth with the characters and maybe a bit more humour in between. But altogether it was a cheesy and fun read.
It was so fun. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I do love a murder mystery with some comedy thrown in. I enjoyed the setting in this book, especially seeing behind the scenes of a movie set.
I would have loved a little more in-depth with the characters and maybe a bit more humour in between. But altogether it was a cheesy and fun read.
June 5, 2025
Scream Queen Quinn is ready to hang up her 'Final Girl' title and retire - but when real life and death interferes she is going to find out if she has what it takes to make it to the end.
This wastes no time in jumping you into the action - by a mere 10% in the book we have many of our players laid out, a dead body and all manner of tension. It's fast paced all the way through, a real roller-coaster of a ride.
The characters are all brilliant, your staple slasher flick fare, all brilliantly crafted albeit sometimes a little 2D. And then a character will suddenly show a side you didn't expect but was brilliant to see. The only thing I didn't enjoy was Quinn and Mara's friendship. Mara sadly is relegated to best friend and doormat that so many friends are in novels. Her sole purpose seems to be providing drinks and being ignored by Quinn who is a terrible friend. Mara at least calls her out on it, which is more than a lot of these coded characters do.
I didn't really see the point of the 'acting lessons'. Well, I did, they were to heighten the tension and spice, but story wise, they didn't contribute much or explain Teddy's motivation, he overcomes his acting issues/emotional trauma very fast and they move on, I would have liked more of his lessons. And as for Teddy - well, he is a brilliant MMC. A total himbo, utterly braindead at first, in that entertaining in fiction sort of way, but then as the novel develops, so does he and you get to see some of his depth, his reasoning and he's a total sweetie pie. If a little too aware of how hot he is.
I really liked the scene where they were filming a sex scene. The novel hit the right notes of how awkward and unsexy it is having to film it, while at the same time both of them struggling with their natural urges. And then the spice that followed was a lovely little contrast.
Originally I wasn't sure about the killer reveal/motivation. It wouldn't work in a lot of books, but this is a horror slasher based novel, and it 100% would work in a movie like Scream so why not here? Embracing that element of cheese and ridiculousness really will increase your enjoyment of the story and there is a lot to enjoy.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
This wastes no time in jumping you into the action - by a mere 10% in the book we have many of our players laid out, a dead body and all manner of tension. It's fast paced all the way through, a real roller-coaster of a ride.
The characters are all brilliant, your staple slasher flick fare, all brilliantly crafted albeit sometimes a little 2D. And then a character will suddenly show a side you didn't expect but was brilliant to see. The only thing I didn't enjoy was Quinn and Mara's friendship. Mara sadly is relegated to best friend and doormat that so many friends are in novels. Her sole purpose seems to be providing drinks and being ignored by Quinn who is a terrible friend. Mara at least calls her out on it, which is more than a lot of these coded characters do.
I didn't really see the point of the 'acting lessons'. Well, I did, they were to heighten the tension and spice, but story wise, they didn't contribute much or explain Teddy's motivation, he overcomes his acting issues/emotional trauma very fast and they move on, I would have liked more of his lessons. And as for Teddy - well, he is a brilliant MMC. A total himbo, utterly braindead at first, in that entertaining in fiction sort of way, but then as the novel develops, so does he and you get to see some of his depth, his reasoning and he's a total sweetie pie. If a little too aware of how hot he is.
I really liked the scene where they were filming a sex scene. The novel hit the right notes of how awkward and unsexy it is having to film it, while at the same time both of them struggling with their natural urges. And then the spice that followed was a lovely little contrast.
Originally I wasn't sure about the killer reveal/motivation. It wouldn't work in a lot of books, but this is a horror slasher based novel, and it 100% would work in a movie like Scream so why not here? Embracing that element of cheese and ridiculousness really will increase your enjoyment of the story and there is a lot to enjoy.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
June 5, 2025
3.5 stars
A fun premise and a fun read that also has a bit of a celebrity romance thrown in. Horror actor nepo baby Quinn is done with Hollywood. While filming her swan song, she and her co-star, the very hot reality TV start Teddy find art is imitating life. Or is it life imitating art?
This was a fun easy read and I really liked the romance, with Quinn less sold on Teddy, thinking he’s a bit of a vapid manwhore. Yet every step of the way Teddy shows he’s caring and a good partner. Their idea of crime solving – blundering into terrible interrogations was also amusing. I loved their chemistry and the way Quinn slowly comes to realise how awesome Teddy is. I was also kept guessing with the mystery too.
I do wish, however that there was more depth to the career part of the book. For instance, the acting lessons was built up to be more than it was. Having more scenes with that, I think it would’ve shown more development of Quinn realising Teddy was a solid guy) and also nicely tying in with the epilogue. While I loved the resolution to Quinn’s career in the epilogue, I don’t understand why she didn’t take her dad’s friends offer, given it would’ve been a much better swansong for her acting career. Finally, the storyline with her best friend Mara also felt like too much thrown in for the sake of throwing in more stakes instead of adding more depth.
An absolutely fun, sexy and funny debut that pays an homage to horror. I look forward to Katie Bohn's next book.
Thanks to Quercus and NetGalley for the ARC.
A fun premise and a fun read that also has a bit of a celebrity romance thrown in. Horror actor nepo baby Quinn is done with Hollywood. While filming her swan song, she and her co-star, the very hot reality TV start Teddy find art is imitating life. Or is it life imitating art?
This was a fun easy read and I really liked the romance, with Quinn less sold on Teddy, thinking he’s a bit of a vapid manwhore. Yet every step of the way Teddy shows he’s caring and a good partner. Their idea of crime solving – blundering into terrible interrogations was also amusing. I loved their chemistry and the way Quinn slowly comes to realise how awesome Teddy is. I was also kept guessing with the mystery too.
I do wish, however that there was more depth to the career part of the book. For instance, the acting lessons was built up to be more than it was. Having more scenes with that, I think it would’ve shown more development of Quinn realising Teddy was a solid guy) and also nicely tying in with the epilogue. While I loved the resolution to Quinn’s career in the epilogue, I don’t understand why she didn’t take her dad’s friends offer, given it would’ve been a much better swansong for her acting career. Finally, the storyline with her best friend Mara also felt like too much thrown in for the sake of throwing in more stakes instead of adding more depth.
An absolutely fun, sexy and funny debut that pays an homage to horror. I look forward to Katie Bohn's next book.
Thanks to Quercus and NetGalley for the ARC.
June 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC 💕
First of all- OH MY GOD?!? This was amazing!!!
We follow our main character Quinn, a leading lady in the horror movie industry on the set of her latest movie when suspicious people and unfortunate events start to unfurl. After a PA dies on the first night of filming, Quinn enlists her male costar to help investigate what she believes to be a murder.
I absolutely ate this up! Quinn was a very likeable main character, grappling with her decision to quit acting as well as her struggling friendship with her makeup artist. Her knowledge of the horror genre offered an insight into the industry as a whole that I found fascinating to read about and gave her an edge when trying to find the killer.
Teddy (the mmc) was so sweet!! He’s fresh into acting so seeks out Quinn to teach him how to improve and his backstory gave him so much depth and honestly I just adored the chemistry he and Quinn had!
I would absolutely recommend this to romcom fans wanting to get more into mystery novels because this book had an excellent balance between the two genres and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading :)
I could not put it down!!
First of all- OH MY GOD?!? This was amazing!!!
We follow our main character Quinn, a leading lady in the horror movie industry on the set of her latest movie when suspicious people and unfortunate events start to unfurl. After a PA dies on the first night of filming, Quinn enlists her male costar to help investigate what she believes to be a murder.
I absolutely ate this up! Quinn was a very likeable main character, grappling with her decision to quit acting as well as her struggling friendship with her makeup artist. Her knowledge of the horror genre offered an insight into the industry as a whole that I found fascinating to read about and gave her an edge when trying to find the killer.
Teddy (the mmc) was so sweet!! He’s fresh into acting so seeks out Quinn to teach him how to improve and his backstory gave him so much depth and honestly I just adored the chemistry he and Quinn had!
I would absolutely recommend this to romcom fans wanting to get more into mystery novels because this book had an excellent balance between the two genres and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading :)
I could not put it down!!
May 18, 2025
The premise for this book is great, and I enjoyed all the horror movie behind-the-scenes style references throughout- it felt like a love letter to horror in Hollywood.
I had a good time reading this book, and thought it was a really solid debut novel. I liked Quinn as a main character and seeing her develop through the story, her characterisation was well done and I was rooting for her and Teddy.
However, the deal to have the acting lessons to help solve the crime just didn't work for me. I didn't feel like enough time was spent on either aspect in the plot to make it believable enough, I don't need it to be super plausible because I want to be invested but there just wasn't enough elements of Teddy's acting "improving" or Quinn follow credible leads in the search for the killer.
I would've also liked some more development between Quinn and her friends as well, she kept forgetting plans they were making and mostly came across as a bad friend for this.
Overall I'd give this book 3.5 stars, it was a fun time and would recommend to anyone looking for a cosy crime feel with the horror movie backdrop.
I had a good time reading this book, and thought it was a really solid debut novel. I liked Quinn as a main character and seeing her develop through the story, her characterisation was well done and I was rooting for her and Teddy.
However, the deal to have the acting lessons to help solve the crime just didn't work for me. I didn't feel like enough time was spent on either aspect in the plot to make it believable enough, I don't need it to be super plausible because I want to be invested but there just wasn't enough elements of Teddy's acting "improving" or Quinn follow credible leads in the search for the killer.
I would've also liked some more development between Quinn and her friends as well, she kept forgetting plans they were making and mostly came across as a bad friend for this.
Overall I'd give this book 3.5 stars, it was a fun time and would recommend to anyone looking for a cosy crime feel with the horror movie backdrop.
June 5, 2025
I love a good genre mash, and this mystery, thriller, romance book absolutely delivers.
Katie Bohn combines a fantastic who-dun-it plot with a romance sub-plot, set on the set of a horror movie. Quinn ropes MMC reality TV star Teddy into helping her solve a murder, and falls in love with him along the way. All of this is combined with the scene of a horror movie filming, which adds the extra detail and creepy theme that helps to contribute to the story.
The banter between the characters is great across the story. The character development is slightly lacking, but it's kept very vague so it keeps the reader guessing who the murderer may be.
I do think that it was quite easy to guess, and I'm usually not very good at these. The romance part of the story was really good though, I loved Teddy and Quinn together.
Katie Bohn combines a fantastic who-dun-it plot with a romance sub-plot, set on the set of a horror movie. Quinn ropes MMC reality TV star Teddy into helping her solve a murder, and falls in love with him along the way. All of this is combined with the scene of a horror movie filming, which adds the extra detail and creepy theme that helps to contribute to the story.
The banter between the characters is great across the story. The character development is slightly lacking, but it's kept very vague so it keeps the reader guessing who the murderer may be.
I do think that it was quite easy to guess, and I'm usually not very good at these. The romance part of the story was really good though, I loved Teddy and Quinn together.
July 19, 2025
This was really fun. I think I enjoyed the mystery a little more than the romance, it felt a little sidelined but it was still good. This was one of those books that I didn't want to put down but I also put off reading because I didn’t want to finish it.
I liked Teddy and Quinn, they were cute and I loved their relationship progression. I would have liked to see it a bit more, it did feel a tad rushed, or maybe more like it moved along a little too fast and I missed them actually falling for each other. It was still very cute and a good romance, I just wanted a little more.
I will say I did guess the killer, but not the reason. The reveal was well done for the most part, but after we knew who the killer was they kind of became a bit one dimensional, like all other personality was gone. I think that was my biggest issue with the book, so not much to complain about.
I liked Teddy and Quinn, they were cute and I loved their relationship progression. I would have liked to see it a bit more, it did feel a tad rushed, or maybe more like it moved along a little too fast and I missed them actually falling for each other. It was still very cute and a good romance, I just wanted a little more.
I will say I did guess the killer, but not the reason. The reveal was well done for the most part, but after we knew who the killer was they kind of became a bit one dimensional, like all other personality was gone. I think that was my biggest issue with the book, so not much to complain about.
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July 22, 2025From the blurb: After years as Hollywood's horror It Girl, Scream queen Quinn is sick of the tabloids and the off-screen drama. She's decided to make one last film, before quitting. All that stands in her way is leading man Teddy James, a Reality TV star with absolutely no talent. When they stumble - literally - across a dead body on set, everyone believes it's a tragic accident, but Quinn's not convinced. She offers Teddy a deal: acting lessons in exchange for his help investigating. And as Teddy and Quinn dig deeper, she begins to wonder what's most at risk here - their lives, or her heart?
This is a lively, well-written genre mashup - a murder mystery on the set of a horror film, all wrapped up in a sexually-charged RomCom.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
This is a lively, well-written genre mashup - a murder mystery on the set of a horror film, all wrapped up in a sexually-charged RomCom.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
November 10, 2025
This was just… not good. It read like a first draft that needed many more revisions. For a murder mystery, we didn’t get to know any of these characters very well, not even the main character. There was also a lot of red herrings that never led anywhere at all. Why did we need to spell out specifically what the waitress’ name was, when she is then never mentioned again? A lot of this was filled with unnecessary stuff and there was a huge lack of things to actually be interested in. In the last 20% I just started skimming, because I couldn’t handle reading about basic movements like when cooking, which are so not relevant to the plot at all? I think 30% of the text in this was actually relevant to the plot. The romance was also questionable. This concept had potential, but it didn’t work as a murder mystery, and it barely worked as a romance.
July 30, 2025
I’m sorry. 😞 I wanted to like this more, and I went into it eager for some campy fun. But it was lacking in fun, just leaving a really dumb plot and heroine. I guessed the killer in chapter 5. And the characters read as 18, not late 20s to me. It’s also one of those frustrating books where despite supposedly investigating something, the characters choose not to communicate with each other or, you know, actually investigate anything. I did laugh out loud when the police took the killer away, leaving one victim to untie the other. lmao. I think it would have been better to just fully lean into fun camp than half way it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2025
2.25-2.5 stars - I didn’t love it, I didn’t hate it, it fell into a very pleasant happy medium where I enjoyed it thoroughly and read it quickly but it wasn’t anything particularly special. A fun horror movie romance with a reveal I saw coming a mile away, but nevertheless enjoyed. However the main character really needs to get her priorities straight - I think if murders were taking place on my film set I’d probably put all romance out of my mind fully, not just for a minute or two, given that people have DIED??? Anyway, still liked it
November 1, 2025
3⭐️
A fun silly goofy murder mystery set on the set of a horror movie. A nice quick little read to finish off spooky season. Was the killer reveal kinda obvious? Yes. Was the romance all that compelling? No ( started fun and flirtatious but “deep feelings” developed way too quickly and I found myself skim reading towards the end as I wanted to get to the killer revel) Was the book as a whole slightly too long? Yes, we could’ve cut this by 50-60 pgs as it started to drag towards the end but overall fun silly and quick to read
A fun silly goofy murder mystery set on the set of a horror movie. A nice quick little read to finish off spooky season. Was the killer reveal kinda obvious? Yes. Was the romance all that compelling? No ( started fun and flirtatious but “deep feelings” developed way too quickly and I found myself skim reading towards the end as I wanted to get to the killer revel) Was the book as a whole slightly too long? Yes, we could’ve cut this by 50-60 pgs as it started to drag towards the end but overall fun silly and quick to read
June 30, 2025
thank you to netgalley for the arc ⭐️
‘romance is dead’ is one of my favourites of the year so far, a perfect blend of romance and mystery. taking place on the set of a movie, our lead character and ‘scream queen’ ends up falling for a realty star who is new to the acting industry, all while trying to solve a murder. at times it’s funny and there’s horror movie references galore. overall, it’s a blast.
‘romance is dead’ is one of my favourites of the year so far, a perfect blend of romance and mystery. taking place on the set of a movie, our lead character and ‘scream queen’ ends up falling for a realty star who is new to the acting industry, all while trying to solve a murder. at times it’s funny and there’s horror movie references galore. overall, it’s a blast.
August 29, 2025
someone remind me to check if books are dual povs before getting them because why was this a literal snoozefest that almost put me on a slump
i feel like giving a 3 star is extremely generous of me but hey i loved the author's writing
it was ngl hilarious because what do you mean you came across two dead bodies & still think about getting laid.. i don't think a 10% murder and 90% romance book is it for me. either give me murder or romance. i don't need any that's in between 😭
i feel like giving a 3 star is extremely generous of me but hey i loved the author's writing
it was ngl hilarious because what do you mean you came across two dead bodies & still think about getting laid.. i don't think a 10% murder and 90% romance book is it for me. either give me murder or romance. i don't need any that's in between 😭
September 21, 2025
4,25/ 5 🌟
Wow! This book! Let me say it was a pleasant surprise.
I really loved the mix of romance and mystery, which is a genre I haven’t really read before. The setting, the vibe, SO GOOD!
I love Quinns character.
I love Teddy, OMG. He’s so perfect. They’re perfect. Who could’ve guessed he was the most thoughtful, kindest little cinnamon roll beneath that shell of cockyness.
Okay, CHLOE, doing it all for revenge? That was unexpected.
Loved it, perfect autumn read!
Wow! This book! Let me say it was a pleasant surprise.
I really loved the mix of romance and mystery, which is a genre I haven’t really read before. The setting, the vibe, SO GOOD!
I love Quinns character.
I love Teddy, OMG. He’s so perfect. They’re perfect. Who could’ve guessed he was the most thoughtful, kindest little cinnamon roll beneath that shell of cockyness.
Okay, CHLOE, doing it all for revenge? That was unexpected.
Loved it, perfect autumn read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
3.5🌟
you know what, I didn’t really know what to expect going in and I’m 100% sure I’ve never read anything like it or will again but what a fun ride!!
I will say it is truly a ridiculous plot and half the things that happen are so outlandish but I had so much fun reading it? I didn’t feel like any of the elements were lacking at the expense of others and each bit of the story really got its moment to shine.
Would’ve liked a bit more of a big dramatic finish but it wasn’t absolutely necessary.
you know what, I didn’t really know what to expect going in and I’m 100% sure I’ve never read anything like it or will again but what a fun ride!!
I will say it is truly a ridiculous plot and half the things that happen are so outlandish but I had so much fun reading it? I didn’t feel like any of the elements were lacking at the expense of others and each bit of the story really got its moment to shine.
Would’ve liked a bit more of a big dramatic finish but it wasn’t absolutely necessary.
October 20, 2025
Was this book by any means good? uhm... no.
But did i enjoy it? Yes. Yes, I did.
(but let's be real. It's all just extremely flat protagonists with the most basic characteristics. a plot so empty the characters of the movie being filmed don't even have names and with dialogue and actions throughout the entire book that make me, unfortubately, question the writer's knowledge/research ability of film, police work, and social interactions in general.)
But did i enjoy it? Yes. Yes, I did.
(but let's be real. It's all just extremely flat protagonists with the most basic characteristics. a plot so empty the characters of the movie being filmed don't even have names and with dialogue and actions throughout the entire book that make me, unfortubately, question the writer's knowledge/research ability of film, police work, and social interactions in general.)
May 18, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Quercus for an arc of this book.
4.5⭐️
This is a very fun read. I always enjoy when there’s a good plot behind a romance novel and this has a good one.
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the unfolding murder mystery and loved the chemistry between the main characters. I also haven’t read a book based on a movie set before so that was very fun as well.
4.5⭐️
This is a very fun read. I always enjoy when there’s a good plot behind a romance novel and this has a good one.
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the unfolding murder mystery and loved the chemistry between the main characters. I also haven’t read a book based on a movie set before so that was very fun as well.
July 4, 2025
thankyou to netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book
I really liked the mystery element to this book but unfortunately that's the main thing that kept me reading rather than the romance. I felt the main characters had a good physical attraction but I found it a bit lacking other than that
I really liked the mystery element to this book but unfortunately that's the main thing that kept me reading rather than the romance. I felt the main characters had a good physical attraction but I found it a bit lacking other than that
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