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The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World
The Hating Game
meets Legends & Lattes in this captivating and hilarious fantasy rom-com with a twist about two enemies who must work together to return to their reality.
Courtney’s only goal in life is to have no goals. She’s content with her dead-end job and simple existence, and everything is perfect until her neighbor, Bryce, shatters her peace by inexplicably deciding Courtney is his arch-nemesis. To her annoyance, Courtney finds herself committing to a life goal after all: hating Bryce back.
Just after the pair decide to loathe each other for all eternity, they unwittingly step through a portal and hurtle into a fantasy world together, where they are met by a prophecy-obsessed mentor who claims one of them is the Chosen One, destined to defeat an unknown Evil One. But instead of saving the world, the two only unleash more chaos by accidentally freeing a dragon, summoning an undead army, and almost poisoning their mentor with peanut butter.
To return to their world, Bryce and Courtney need magic, which is unfortunately fueled by charisma—meaning the two incompetent, underachieving heroes somehow have to get people to like them. With time running out and the Evil One looming, the enemies must work together and become worthy heroes so they can charm the world (but hopefully not each other), harness magic, overthrow Evil, and get home. Otherwise, they’ll be stuck in a doomed universe without running water—and with each other—forever.
Courtney’s only goal in life is to have no goals. She’s content with her dead-end job and simple existence, and everything is perfect until her neighbor, Bryce, shatters her peace by inexplicably deciding Courtney is his arch-nemesis. To her annoyance, Courtney finds herself committing to a life goal after all: hating Bryce back.
Just after the pair decide to loathe each other for all eternity, they unwittingly step through a portal and hurtle into a fantasy world together, where they are met by a prophecy-obsessed mentor who claims one of them is the Chosen One, destined to defeat an unknown Evil One. But instead of saving the world, the two only unleash more chaos by accidentally freeing a dragon, summoning an undead army, and almost poisoning their mentor with peanut butter.
To return to their world, Bryce and Courtney need magic, which is unfortunately fueled by charisma—meaning the two incompetent, underachieving heroes somehow have to get people to like them. With time running out and the Evil One looming, the enemies must work together and become worthy heroes so they can charm the world (but hopefully not each other), harness magic, overthrow Evil, and get home. Otherwise, they’ll be stuck in a doomed universe without running water—and with each other—forever.
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2025
22 people are currently reading
4536 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 11, 2025
The writing was good, the story flowed and had some interesting side characters but lacked in a big way sadly.
I really wanted to love this book. I loved the books the blurb compared it to. Sadly I didn’t enjoy reading this story. It was 12 hours of adult toddlers snipping back and forth at each other. Then lead characters were not likable for me, I really disliked them both.They were just so childish and mean. This is something I don’t enjoy reading. I can’t personally recommend this book based on my taste.
I really wanted to love this book. I loved the books the blurb compared it to. Sadly I didn’t enjoy reading this story. It was 12 hours of adult toddlers snipping back and forth at each other. Then lead characters were not likable for me, I really disliked them both.They were just so childish and mean. This is something I don’t enjoy reading. I can’t personally recommend this book based on my taste.
August 22, 2025
Thanks so much to Simon and Schuster for the free copy of this book. I was so thrilled to receive it in the mail! My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
Omg this was so amazing! I would have stayed up all night yesterday to finish it if work wasn't so rude and actually makes me show up to get paid lol. If only I could figure out a way to get paid to read, that would be amazing. In any case, I finished this in two sittings. Couldn't put it down!
I can't remember the last book that made me laugh so much. The enemies to frenemies to lovers was so amazing. I love the development there. Most enemies to lovers are so ridiculous and toxic, that even though it works in fiction, you would never want the couple to end up together if if was real life. Here, though, there was such a natural progression, and the problems came from trauma in each of the main characters' backgrounds.
Even the one bed trope was believable. How do you make a one bed trope believable?
Not only did I love the characters, but the plot was absolutely amazing. I did not see the plot twist coming at all. Loved it so much!
There is some smut in here, but nothing too spicy. Although that all depends on what you consider spicy, I suppose. Some people consider a kiss scandalous, so . . .
I have read 300 books this year so far and think this is the best one so far.
Omg this was so amazing! I would have stayed up all night yesterday to finish it if work wasn't so rude and actually makes me show up to get paid lol. If only I could figure out a way to get paid to read, that would be amazing. In any case, I finished this in two sittings. Couldn't put it down!
I can't remember the last book that made me laugh so much. The enemies to frenemies to lovers was so amazing. I love the development there. Most enemies to lovers are so ridiculous and toxic, that even though it works in fiction, you would never want the couple to end up together if if was real life. Here, though, there was such a natural progression, and the problems came from trauma in each of the main characters' backgrounds.
Even the one bed trope was believable. How do you make a one bed trope believable?
Not only did I love the characters, but the plot was absolutely amazing. I did not see the plot twist coming at all. Loved it so much!
There is some smut in here, but nothing too spicy. Although that all depends on what you consider spicy, I suppose. Some people consider a kiss scandalous, so . . .
I have read 300 books this year so far and think this is the best one so far.
November 24, 2024
I read this book in beta and this book is a masterpiece from start to finish. I laughed and I cried and I could not put it down. These characters live in my mind every day.
September 25, 2025
I loved this!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such a fun fantasy/romance (not a romantasy) and an amazing debut! There was a lot of heart while also being really funny!
I loved their banter so much! It truly is enemies to lovers. Courtney and Bryce hate each other, they’re neighbors and then they get transported into a fantasy world where they’re told to save the world (or at least that world.)
I liked how they started showing vulnerability to each other to realize they’re both very similar and pretty much perfect for each other.
I related to Courtney a lot and I think a lot of people will too.
“I was content merely existing, which, for some reason, made a lot of people discontent.”
“She made me feel a morbid companionship that only came from finding someone to hate things with, something lodged firmly between happiness and misery.“
“I didn’t have to be perfect to be worthy of love.”
Releases Sept 30th! Thank you Atria for an arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such a fun fantasy/romance (not a romantasy) and an amazing debut! There was a lot of heart while also being really funny!
I loved their banter so much! It truly is enemies to lovers. Courtney and Bryce hate each other, they’re neighbors and then they get transported into a fantasy world where they’re told to save the world (or at least that world.)
I liked how they started showing vulnerability to each other to realize they’re both very similar and pretty much perfect for each other.
I related to Courtney a lot and I think a lot of people will too.
“I was content merely existing, which, for some reason, made a lot of people discontent.”
“She made me feel a morbid companionship that only came from finding someone to hate things with, something lodged firmly between happiness and misery.“
“I didn’t have to be perfect to be worthy of love.”
Releases Sept 30th! Thank you Atria for an arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
November 5, 2025
I loved this audiobook. The narrators were excellent. I don't read too much fantasy but the premise just called to me. It sounded so fun, so I grabbed it on audio. It was a chef's kiss. 💋 An enemy to lovers' book that had me rolling with laughter. The shenanigans and pranks between these two were pure entertainment. The world building and dialogue were just a riot. If you're looking for a fantastic escape from the real world…..grab this book.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2025
I don’t often write reviews. I don’t often read romance novels. Even if it’s Romantasy. Im basically a fantasy dork. But this book deserves a review and deserves to be read by anyone who enjoys the written word no matter the genre.
Sloane is hilarious. Full stop. Every sentence drips with wit and creativity. I lost track of how many times I legitimately found myself laughing out loud. The number of moments and dialogue I highlighted, screenshotted and shared with friends.
This story is both a love letter to and satirical take down of traditional fantasy and romance tropes. But it’s also so much more than that.
Beneath the sharp dialogue and the wacky hijinks there’s a story with real heart. Three dimensional characters you can’t help but root for, even when they’re actively telling you not to root for them. It’s got a relationship that’s flawed, but one that is also relatable with a nuanced sweetness flavoring it all.
I don’t read romance novels. I don’t do Romantsy. I’m a fantasy dork. A fantasy dork that will read every damn word that this author ever publishes.
Sloane a rising star that needs to be on everyone’s TBR. Absolutely the easiest 5 star I’ll ever give. This is a book that needs to be made into a movie.
I can’t wait to see what’s next from her.
Sloane is hilarious. Full stop. Every sentence drips with wit and creativity. I lost track of how many times I legitimately found myself laughing out loud. The number of moments and dialogue I highlighted, screenshotted and shared with friends.
This story is both a love letter to and satirical take down of traditional fantasy and romance tropes. But it’s also so much more than that.
Beneath the sharp dialogue and the wacky hijinks there’s a story with real heart. Three dimensional characters you can’t help but root for, even when they’re actively telling you not to root for them. It’s got a relationship that’s flawed, but one that is also relatable with a nuanced sweetness flavoring it all.
I don’t read romance novels. I don’t do Romantsy. I’m a fantasy dork. A fantasy dork that will read every damn word that this author ever publishes.
Sloane a rising star that needs to be on everyone’s TBR. Absolutely the easiest 5 star I’ll ever give. This is a book that needs to be made into a movie.
I can’t wait to see what’s next from her.
July 25, 2025
This is probably one of the most chaotic books I’ve ever read and I loved every minute of it. I literally never knew what was going to happen next… how could I with falling through portals, spider dragons, a zombie army, and all sorts of other randomness I encountered on this adventure.
In this book you have Courtney and Bryce, two neighbors that can’t stand each other. They end up on a magical adventure together in another world where they are expected to be the heroes.
This book surprised me in so many ways. It was incredibly engaging and I was always excited to see what was going to happen in the coming chapters.
If you are looking for a book that is the perfect blend of magic, romance, and quest based fantasy look no further.
Thank you @atriabooks for the gifted copy of the book.
In this book you have Courtney and Bryce, two neighbors that can’t stand each other. They end up on a magical adventure together in another world where they are expected to be the heroes.
This book surprised me in so many ways. It was incredibly engaging and I was always excited to see what was going to happen in the coming chapters.
If you are looking for a book that is the perfect blend of magic, romance, and quest based fantasy look no further.
Thank you @atriabooks for the gifted copy of the book.
November 10, 2025
If you are a fan of Kimberley Lemmings Mead Mishaps series, you will LOVE this.
It's incredibly quick witted, self aware, and absolutely bonkers. Nothing and everything makes sense from their wizard mentor named Amy, a talking mouse and Evil Dead style skeleton zombies. The two leads are absolute children with their hate and banter for each other but thats exactly the idea. I had a smile on my face the entire time. It's 100% a book for me.
It's incredibly quick witted, self aware, and absolutely bonkers. Nothing and everything makes sense from their wizard mentor named Amy, a talking mouse and Evil Dead style skeleton zombies. The two leads are absolute children with their hate and banter for each other but thats exactly the idea. I had a smile on my face the entire time. It's 100% a book for me.
December 7, 2025
2.5⭐️
DNF AT 44%
The banter was really funny at first and there was a lot of laugh out loud moments for me. Eventually the bickering got old and I needed a lot more plot than what I was getting
DNF AT 44%
The banter was really funny at first and there was a lot of laugh out loud moments for me. Eventually the bickering got old and I needed a lot more plot than what I was getting
September 15, 2025
This book is entirely unserious, and will require a whole lot of suspended disbelief. It is irreverent, and weird and if you have the the right sense of humor, you're in for a treat. I had a great time with the roasting and pranks.
A very DND coded fantasy romcom. A couple of spicy open door scenes.
Thank you to atria books for a complimentary digital book through Netgalley. All the opinions in this review are my own.
A very DND coded fantasy romcom. A couple of spicy open door scenes.
Thank you to atria books for a complimentary digital book through Netgalley. All the opinions in this review are my own.
August 19, 2025
What happens when two neighbors who despise each other become the prophesied saviors of another world? Sloane Brooks' 'The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World' answers this question with delicious wit and unexpected heart. This refreshing twist on portal fantasy had me alternating between uncontrollable laughter and genuine emotional investment from page one.
Courtney and Bryce rank among the most relatable fantasy protagonists I've encountered. Their transition from enemies to reluctant allies feels organic, with banter that crackles with wit while they navigate prophecies, dragons, and undead armies.
This book stands out by balancing lighthearted elements with genuine stakes. The "chosen one" prophecy gets a clever update when both characters potentially qualify, creating tension as they compete to prove their worthiness. Their attempts at heroism repeatedly backfire in catastrophic yet hilarious ways.
The world-building achieves that perfect cozy fantasy balance: immersive without overwhelming detail. The magic system requiring charisma is both innovative and the perfect challenge for our socially awkward heroes.
Both characters confront personal demons alongside external threats, with growth that feels earned rather than convenient.
Fans of T.J. Klune's "The House in the Cerulean Sea" will appreciate this same blend of warmth, humor, and heart. A delightful escape for anyone who enjoys fantasy with equal parts adventure and character development.
Special thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for my advance copy. As always, the thoughts shared here are completely my own.
Courtney and Bryce rank among the most relatable fantasy protagonists I've encountered. Their transition from enemies to reluctant allies feels organic, with banter that crackles with wit while they navigate prophecies, dragons, and undead armies.
This book stands out by balancing lighthearted elements with genuine stakes. The "chosen one" prophecy gets a clever update when both characters potentially qualify, creating tension as they compete to prove their worthiness. Their attempts at heroism repeatedly backfire in catastrophic yet hilarious ways.
The world-building achieves that perfect cozy fantasy balance: immersive without overwhelming detail. The magic system requiring charisma is both innovative and the perfect challenge for our socially awkward heroes.
Both characters confront personal demons alongside external threats, with growth that feels earned rather than convenient.
Fans of T.J. Klune's "The House in the Cerulean Sea" will appreciate this same blend of warmth, humor, and heart. A delightful escape for anyone who enjoys fantasy with equal parts adventure and character development.
Special thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for my advance copy. As always, the thoughts shared here are completely my own.
July 23, 2025
Thank you to Atria Books via NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you were magically transported into a new realm and prophesied to be the chosen one to save the land? I bet everyone has at one point in their life. No matter what story you read, I'm sure you've pondered this question and asked yourself, "What would I do if I were the hero, the main character, in this story?" Would you make the same decisions as them, or do/say something different to alter the story. In Sloane Brook's The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World, that's what happens to our main characters, Courtney and Bryce. The kicker? They aren't your stereotypical fantasy heroes. In fact, they're the complete opposite of what you would expect them to be.
Courtney has one goal in life: no goals. She's content with her dead-end job and wants to exist. When her neighbor Bryce decides that Courtney is his arch nemesis, Courtney now has a new goal: hate Bryce with a passion and make his life miserable. But what happens when both transport into a portal inside a clothing rack into a new realm, where the townspeople declare that one of them is the Chosen One meant to defeat the Evil One? They each make it their sole mission to prove that they are the Chosen One while the other is the sidekick. But in doing so, they prove just how bad they are at being the Chosen One and accidentally unleashing more chaos unto the realm, like freeing a dragon, summoning an undead army, and giving their mentor an anaphylactic shock with peanut butter. The way to get home is to have magic fueled by charisma and make others love you, which is a monumental task for two incompetent underachievers. Now it's up to them to figure out how to develop magic, who the Evil One is and their plot, all while trying to undo everything they did, and get back home while trying not to fall for each other. Simple, right? Not for these two.
Never have I ever laughed so much while reading a book. I'm even laughing at the chapter titles. The banter between the characters and their inner monologues will have you wheezing. The comebacks that they have for each other, and the ever-changing WiFi names are part of this novel's hilarious charm. Like other fantasy stories, you see the usual tropes, but they're written and used in a creative and refreshing manner. You see their enemies-to-lovers story develop from the beginning and flourish towards the end, all while watching their character development grow. As you progress throughout the story, their relationship develops at a nice pace where you're enjoying their jabs at one another, but wanting them to confront their feelings and personal demons.
At the heart of this story is just that, heart. You empathize with these characters because we as humans do the same thing. We put up a facade for the world to see, but they remain true to themselves. Sometimes, that's all that we ask. If there is a lesson to be learned, it's that we want someone to see us for who we are and accept all parts of ourselves, not just the pieces they like and can fix. No one needs to be fixed, they just need to be loved and accepted.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you were magically transported into a new realm and prophesied to be the chosen one to save the land? I bet everyone has at one point in their life. No matter what story you read, I'm sure you've pondered this question and asked yourself, "What would I do if I were the hero, the main character, in this story?" Would you make the same decisions as them, or do/say something different to alter the story. In Sloane Brook's The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World, that's what happens to our main characters, Courtney and Bryce. The kicker? They aren't your stereotypical fantasy heroes. In fact, they're the complete opposite of what you would expect them to be.
Courtney has one goal in life: no goals. She's content with her dead-end job and wants to exist. When her neighbor Bryce decides that Courtney is his arch nemesis, Courtney now has a new goal: hate Bryce with a passion and make his life miserable. But what happens when both transport into a portal inside a clothing rack into a new realm, where the townspeople declare that one of them is the Chosen One meant to defeat the Evil One? They each make it their sole mission to prove that they are the Chosen One while the other is the sidekick. But in doing so, they prove just how bad they are at being the Chosen One and accidentally unleashing more chaos unto the realm, like freeing a dragon, summoning an undead army, and giving their mentor an anaphylactic shock with peanut butter. The way to get home is to have magic fueled by charisma and make others love you, which is a monumental task for two incompetent underachievers. Now it's up to them to figure out how to develop magic, who the Evil One is and their plot, all while trying to undo everything they did, and get back home while trying not to fall for each other. Simple, right? Not for these two.
Never have I ever laughed so much while reading a book. I'm even laughing at the chapter titles. The banter between the characters and their inner monologues will have you wheezing. The comebacks that they have for each other, and the ever-changing WiFi names are part of this novel's hilarious charm. Like other fantasy stories, you see the usual tropes, but they're written and used in a creative and refreshing manner. You see their enemies-to-lovers story develop from the beginning and flourish towards the end, all while watching their character development grow. As you progress throughout the story, their relationship develops at a nice pace where you're enjoying their jabs at one another, but wanting them to confront their feelings and personal demons.
At the heart of this story is just that, heart. You empathize with these characters because we as humans do the same thing. We put up a facade for the world to see, but they remain true to themselves. Sometimes, that's all that we ask. If there is a lesson to be learned, it's that we want someone to see us for who we are and accept all parts of ourselves, not just the pieces they like and can fix. No one needs to be fixed, they just need to be loved and accepted.
September 9, 2025
Thank you to Atria and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f fantasy romance
-portal
-roasting you is my love language
-the hard one and the soft one
-twist on the chosen one
-karma magic system
This book is bonkers in the best way and one of the funniest books I've ever read. Effortless world building, incredible chemsitry, this book just pulls you in. Two people down on their luck, and I loved the twists on the traditional aspects of a romantasy, isntead of being chosen ones, these two just wan to get the heck out of there and home, neither feel like an adquate chosen one. Add in a mouse side kick and incredible banter and this is one of my favorite books I've read this year. I jsut want to shove it in everyone's faces.
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f fantasy romance
-portal
-roasting you is my love language
-the hard one and the soft one
-twist on the chosen one
-karma magic system
This book is bonkers in the best way and one of the funniest books I've ever read. Effortless world building, incredible chemsitry, this book just pulls you in. Two people down on their luck, and I loved the twists on the traditional aspects of a romantasy, isntead of being chosen ones, these two just wan to get the heck out of there and home, neither feel like an adquate chosen one. Add in a mouse side kick and incredible banter and this is one of my favorite books I've read this year. I jsut want to shove it in everyone's faces.
September 28, 2025
A special thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books for allowing me an ARC of this story.
“Under the black sheep’s clothing, there was just a girl, not a wolf.”
This chaotic adventure story is a nonstop whirlwind where something is always happening, pulling you into a world of wild twists and turns. It's filled with perfectly lovable, “unlikable” characters who are as flawed as they are unforgettable. Beneath the madness, though, lies a heartfelt message about being true to yourself—embracing your imperfections and finding someone who loves you not in spite of them, but because of them. The incredibly witty, dry humor had me laughing out loud. The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World is perfect for fans of cozy fantasy with a generous side of chaos.
“Under the black sheep’s clothing, there was just a girl, not a wolf.”
This chaotic adventure story is a nonstop whirlwind where something is always happening, pulling you into a world of wild twists and turns. It's filled with perfectly lovable, “unlikable” characters who are as flawed as they are unforgettable. Beneath the madness, though, lies a heartfelt message about being true to yourself—embracing your imperfections and finding someone who loves you not in spite of them, but because of them. The incredibly witty, dry humor had me laughing out loud. The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World is perfect for fans of cozy fantasy with a generous side of chaos.
November 5, 2025
"No matter how much I tried to push her away, she kept popping back up, the herpes of my heart, ready to ruin my life."
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! Zero notes it was perfect! Hilarious and heartwarming and so much fun!
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! Zero notes it was perfect! Hilarious and heartwarming and so much fun!
November 20, 2025
This is a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy tropes, romance, and smashing them together to create a freaking fantastic book.
October 16, 2025
Hands down, this is one of the best books I've read this year. I'm so glad I got to read it early because I was EAGER for it the second I heard the premise. It's got everything - good writing, humor, drama, trauma, romance and spice. It's light on the fantasy (to me it's giving a Monty Python version of a D&D campaign which is HYSTERICAL), but still has enough world building and depth that everything is accessible and makes sense. If you love romcoms but are unsure about fantasy, READ IT ANYWAY! It's absolutely worth it. I did NOT go into this book thinking I would actually laugh out loud one chapter, tear up the next, and then squeal and kick my little feet the very next - ugh, it was so good! I can't wait to have a physical copy of this one on my shelves. This is absolutely a comfort book for me now, a perfect piece of escapism, and I think I will read it every few months just to feel something.
My ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
My ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
November 4, 2025
This was a fun and laugh out loud story about two people who pretty much hate each other must join forces to escape the fantasy land they're stuck in. I loved the two different POVs and how they first met and why they can't stand each other. I think my favorite thing besides the actual characters and plot was the banter between Courtney and Bryce.
October 15, 2025
Read my full review on my blog, The Bookwyrm's Den. I received a copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Overall
I’ll be honest . . . the title itself grabbed my attention and made me need to read this book. An underachiever’s guide? Sounds perfect for me! I’m not entirely sold on love and saving the world, but I could be won over. I’m a huge fan of enemies-to-lovers romance, especially rom-coms, and Bryce and Courtney sounded just like the sort of dumpster fire I needed in my life right now. Besides, who hasn’t lamented missing their calling as the Chosen One as a child? I’m all about second chances!
The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World is a romantasy rom-com with anti-heroes, filled with bickering, banter, romance cliches turned on their head, and making fun of all the expected Chosen One tropes.
This is a book that doesn’t take itself seriously, and neither should you. It was an absolute hoot to read! This was exactly the sort of funny, light read th at I needed, and I breezed through it faster than I expected. Bryce and Courtney are absolutely terrible Chosen Ones, but at least they’re trying. Sort of. The plot itself is a little thin, and I knew the big reveals almost right away because they felt rather obvious. Despite that, this book was a ton of fun, and I enjoyed the characters and their banter.
My Thoughts
✿ Bryce and Courtney are both neighbors and rivals. They live just to be the thorn in each other’s side. Neither is exactly “hero” material. But they’re soon about to be. One might even call them antiheroes. To be fair, they are painfully average, regular people. Courtney is trying to salvage the remnants of her life and decide where to go from the rock bottom she’s found herself at. Bryce is afraid of literally everything, including life, and just wants his annoying new neighbor to go away so he can return to his peaceful, reclusive existence. The two are always snipping back and forth—bantering, one might even say—and trying to one-up the other.
Unfortunately for them, they find themselves transported to another world, where they’re told one of them is the Chosen One. It’s everything they’ve ever dreamed of . . . and dreaded. Because neither of them are qualified to save the world. At this point, they’re barely qualified to exist in it. But obviously, neither can let the other win. Competing against each other is easy. It’s all they’ve known since they first met many months ago. What they don’t count on is potentially having to work together . . . and that prospect is even scarier than having to saving the world.
✿ Courtney is tired of pretending to be someone she isn’t, so she becomes an underachiever who shuns expectations. Oh, and she may or may not be the Chosen One. It’s everything Courtney ever wanted! Or . . . she thought so. When she was a child. In actuality, though? It’s kind of hard. And having so many people expect things from you is a bit of a downer. Courtney certainly isn’t ready for that kind of responsibility or commitment, but she’s determined to show Bryce up. Because he certainly can’t be the Chosen One, and one of them has to be.
I found Courtney a little too relatable, with her fear of not living up to expectations and pretending so hard to be who everyone else wants you to be. Plus, who hasn’t dreamed of being a Chosen One?! She’s abrasive on the exterior, so afraid of letting people down that she beats them to the punch and chases them away before they can expect anything of her. I wouldn’t say she’s necessarily likable, depending on who you are, but I felt like I understood her . . . and, in another world, I could maybe even be her.
✿ Bryce is a reclusive accountant who is literally afraid of everything. Except the new world he’s found himself in, because it’s obviously a dream, right? And he’s certainly no Chosen One, but he will be if it means Courtney isn’t. Bryce is relatable in the nerdy, geeky way, which means he’s in his element in the new fantasy world. He’s read enough books to know how everything is going to go down and what it means to be the Chosen One. Too bad that sounds like doing all the things he hates, like interacting with other people, taking risks, and putting himself in dangerous situations. But if it means beating Courtney? It’s a risk worth taking in his eyes.
✿ This is a super cute enemies-to-lovers rom com that plays with a lot of the traditional romance tropes by turning them on their side. For example, there’s forced proximity . . . and the characters know that’s what’s happening and make fun of it. They’re basically in on the joke. Bryce and Courtney being a thing is only a surprise to Bryce and Courtney. Obviously, readers know ahead of time where this is headed . . . but even if we didn’t, no one snipes that hard at someone else without there being strong feelings between them.
Is this a healthy relationship? I’m not here to be the judge of that. All I’ll say is that it works. What I love about this pairing is that they’re both broken people, accepting each other because of their flaws, not despite them. Which isn’t easy.
If you’re looking for a warm-and-fuzzy, feel-good romance, this isn’t that. I mean, yes, they’re all cute and romantic . . . if you’re okay with slightly dysfunctional, potentially problematic relationships that just work for some reason. Also, I just want to say that banter and sarcasm are absolutely love languages. I couldn’t help but laugh at some of the exchanges between them. Are they childish? Sometimes. But I could absolutely see hubby and I saying some of these things to each other, just for the fun of it, and our marriage works . . . for us. It’s not for everyone. (And thank goodness. That would be a crowded marriage!)
✿ The non-romance plot itself is a little thin, but it involves another world, a Chosen One (or two?!), a mysterious Evil One, and lots of mistakes along the way. Because I mentioned that neither of our protagonists are qualified to be heroes, right? Yeeeeah, that may have been an understatement. They are extraordinarily bad at it. Courtney as a Chosen One is like me as a Chosen One. The intentions were good, but . . . look, pretending to be a fully functional adult is difficult under the best circumstances, and nigh on impossible when the weight of a world whose rules and history you don’t understand is on your shoulders.
I absolutely love the way the Chosen One trope is handled, because it’s so painfully realistic. Even though Bryce and Courtney are doing their best, they’re a reclusive accountant and a barely competent retail worker. What do they know about swordfighting and magic? (Hint: On paper? Lots. In practicality? Less than nothing.)
I figured out a lot about the overall plot right away, and I was a little disappointed that the characters didn’t even question some things. To be fair, I suppose I have the benefit of knowing it’s a book, and the characters were busy arguing and trying not to admit how much they like each other. To say they were a little distracted is an understatement. Still, despite the fairly transparent plot/mystery, it remained a rather fun romp!
Overall
I’ll be honest . . . the title itself grabbed my attention and made me need to read this book. An underachiever’s guide? Sounds perfect for me! I’m not entirely sold on love and saving the world, but I could be won over. I’m a huge fan of enemies-to-lovers romance, especially rom-coms, and Bryce and Courtney sounded just like the sort of dumpster fire I needed in my life right now. Besides, who hasn’t lamented missing their calling as the Chosen One as a child? I’m all about second chances!
The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World is a romantasy rom-com with anti-heroes, filled with bickering, banter, romance cliches turned on their head, and making fun of all the expected Chosen One tropes.
This is a book that doesn’t take itself seriously, and neither should you. It was an absolute hoot to read! This was exactly the sort of funny, light read th at I needed, and I breezed through it faster than I expected. Bryce and Courtney are absolutely terrible Chosen Ones, but at least they’re trying. Sort of. The plot itself is a little thin, and I knew the big reveals almost right away because they felt rather obvious. Despite that, this book was a ton of fun, and I enjoyed the characters and their banter.
My Thoughts
✿ Bryce and Courtney are both neighbors and rivals. They live just to be the thorn in each other’s side. Neither is exactly “hero” material. But they’re soon about to be. One might even call them antiheroes. To be fair, they are painfully average, regular people. Courtney is trying to salvage the remnants of her life and decide where to go from the rock bottom she’s found herself at. Bryce is afraid of literally everything, including life, and just wants his annoying new neighbor to go away so he can return to his peaceful, reclusive existence. The two are always snipping back and forth—bantering, one might even say—and trying to one-up the other.
Unfortunately for them, they find themselves transported to another world, where they’re told one of them is the Chosen One. It’s everything they’ve ever dreamed of . . . and dreaded. Because neither of them are qualified to save the world. At this point, they’re barely qualified to exist in it. But obviously, neither can let the other win. Competing against each other is easy. It’s all they’ve known since they first met many months ago. What they don’t count on is potentially having to work together . . . and that prospect is even scarier than having to saving the world.
✿ Courtney is tired of pretending to be someone she isn’t, so she becomes an underachiever who shuns expectations. Oh, and she may or may not be the Chosen One. It’s everything Courtney ever wanted! Or . . . she thought so. When she was a child. In actuality, though? It’s kind of hard. And having so many people expect things from you is a bit of a downer. Courtney certainly isn’t ready for that kind of responsibility or commitment, but she’s determined to show Bryce up. Because he certainly can’t be the Chosen One, and one of them has to be.
I found Courtney a little too relatable, with her fear of not living up to expectations and pretending so hard to be who everyone else wants you to be. Plus, who hasn’t dreamed of being a Chosen One?! She’s abrasive on the exterior, so afraid of letting people down that she beats them to the punch and chases them away before they can expect anything of her. I wouldn’t say she’s necessarily likable, depending on who you are, but I felt like I understood her . . . and, in another world, I could maybe even be her.
✿ Bryce is a reclusive accountant who is literally afraid of everything. Except the new world he’s found himself in, because it’s obviously a dream, right? And he’s certainly no Chosen One, but he will be if it means Courtney isn’t. Bryce is relatable in the nerdy, geeky way, which means he’s in his element in the new fantasy world. He’s read enough books to know how everything is going to go down and what it means to be the Chosen One. Too bad that sounds like doing all the things he hates, like interacting with other people, taking risks, and putting himself in dangerous situations. But if it means beating Courtney? It’s a risk worth taking in his eyes.
✿ This is a super cute enemies-to-lovers rom com that plays with a lot of the traditional romance tropes by turning them on their side. For example, there’s forced proximity . . . and the characters know that’s what’s happening and make fun of it. They’re basically in on the joke. Bryce and Courtney being a thing is only a surprise to Bryce and Courtney. Obviously, readers know ahead of time where this is headed . . . but even if we didn’t, no one snipes that hard at someone else without there being strong feelings between them.
Is this a healthy relationship? I’m not here to be the judge of that. All I’ll say is that it works. What I love about this pairing is that they’re both broken people, accepting each other because of their flaws, not despite them. Which isn’t easy.
If you’re looking for a warm-and-fuzzy, feel-good romance, this isn’t that. I mean, yes, they’re all cute and romantic . . . if you’re okay with slightly dysfunctional, potentially problematic relationships that just work for some reason. Also, I just want to say that banter and sarcasm are absolutely love languages. I couldn’t help but laugh at some of the exchanges between them. Are they childish? Sometimes. But I could absolutely see hubby and I saying some of these things to each other, just for the fun of it, and our marriage works . . . for us. It’s not for everyone. (And thank goodness. That would be a crowded marriage!)
✿ The non-romance plot itself is a little thin, but it involves another world, a Chosen One (or two?!), a mysterious Evil One, and lots of mistakes along the way. Because I mentioned that neither of our protagonists are qualified to be heroes, right? Yeeeeah, that may have been an understatement. They are extraordinarily bad at it. Courtney as a Chosen One is like me as a Chosen One. The intentions were good, but . . . look, pretending to be a fully functional adult is difficult under the best circumstances, and nigh on impossible when the weight of a world whose rules and history you don’t understand is on your shoulders.
I absolutely love the way the Chosen One trope is handled, because it’s so painfully realistic. Even though Bryce and Courtney are doing their best, they’re a reclusive accountant and a barely competent retail worker. What do they know about swordfighting and magic? (Hint: On paper? Lots. In practicality? Less than nothing.)
I figured out a lot about the overall plot right away, and I was a little disappointed that the characters didn’t even question some things. To be fair, I suppose I have the benefit of knowing it’s a book, and the characters were busy arguing and trying not to admit how much they like each other. To say they were a little distracted is an understatement. Still, despite the fairly transparent plot/mystery, it remained a rather fun romp!
July 27, 2025
This is quite possibly the best book I've ever read! It was silly and fun and surprising and unexpected, and I loved every second of it!! It was so refreshing to read a fantasy novel where the MCs have flaws and are self aware enough to know they're unlikable (But totally loveable!)
The Banter was Bantering🤌
The description is The Hating Game meets Legends and Lattes, but I would have to disagree. I was not a fan of the former, and LOVED the latter, but this was way better than both! It felt like a buddy comedy? But a rom com? And it was totally self aware, which I love.
Also with chapter titles such as "In Which I Go Through My Emo Phase", "In Which Chekhov's Condoms Foil Our Plans", and "In Which We Are Trained In Everything Except Horseback Riding, Which Feels Like A Massive Oversight, Considering The Importance Of Horseback Riding In Fantasy" This book is absolutely my perfect type of humour and I had the AAAABSOLUTE best time reading!!
Sloane Brooks, you wrote this book 100% for me and I will thank you for it every single day!🫶
The Banter was Bantering🤌
The description is The Hating Game meets Legends and Lattes, but I would have to disagree. I was not a fan of the former, and LOVED the latter, but this was way better than both! It felt like a buddy comedy? But a rom com? And it was totally self aware, which I love.
Also with chapter titles such as "In Which I Go Through My Emo Phase", "In Which Chekhov's Condoms Foil Our Plans", and "In Which We Are Trained In Everything Except Horseback Riding, Which Feels Like A Massive Oversight, Considering The Importance Of Horseback Riding In Fantasy" This book is absolutely my perfect type of humour and I had the AAAABSOLUTE best time reading!!
Sloane Brooks, you wrote this book 100% for me and I will thank you for it every single day!🫶
July 1, 2025
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars. I had a dopey grin on my face the entire time I was reading it. I also wish I could be best friends with this author because, based on her writing, she might be the comedic genius of a generation. With chapter titles like "In Which an Easily Avoidable Misunderstanding Leads to a Third-Act Breakup" and wholesome romantic thoughts like "maybe I was a trash fire, but I was Bryce's trash fire," what's not to love?
This is the story of Courtney, a burned out marketing manager, who never feels good enough and wants a simple life that requires no effort, and her neighbor Bryce, a constantly terrified accountant who works from home. They push each other away immediately upon meeting each other for *reasons*, and decide to become mortal enemies instead. Their banter and pranks are reminiscent of Sarah Hogle's You Deserve Each Other. Creative, insane, and laugh out loud funny.
Once they're pulled into a portal and forced to be heroes to save the kingdom, they form an uneasy alliance. The fantasy world is incredibly unique in that it feels like a video game, not a real world. This allows the author to play with so many fantasy stereotypes and turn them on their head. I won't spoil any of Courtney and Bryce's exploits, but these two flawed characters were such a joy to watch realize they're dummies in love.
This is the story of Courtney, a burned out marketing manager, who never feels good enough and wants a simple life that requires no effort, and her neighbor Bryce, a constantly terrified accountant who works from home. They push each other away immediately upon meeting each other for *reasons*, and decide to become mortal enemies instead. Their banter and pranks are reminiscent of Sarah Hogle's You Deserve Each Other. Creative, insane, and laugh out loud funny.
Once they're pulled into a portal and forced to be heroes to save the kingdom, they form an uneasy alliance. The fantasy world is incredibly unique in that it feels like a video game, not a real world. This allows the author to play with so many fantasy stereotypes and turn them on their head. I won't spoil any of Courtney and Bryce's exploits, but these two flawed characters were such a joy to watch realize they're dummies in love.
September 20, 2025
Overall I enjoyed it and it ticked a lot of boxes for me: enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity, found family (even if that family is kind of odd), imperfect people finding their match, with lots of snark and humor (both subtle and obvious) along the way. Courtney is burnt-out former overachiever and current underachiever. Snarky and finally trying to live her life authentically and on her own rules, she meets Bryce, a cinnamon roll hermit next-door-neighbor who hides beneath an a-hole exterior. I won't rehash the adventure they go on, but it was a lot of fun. There are dual 1st-person POVs, which I like (for much of the book it was an enjoyable battle of outer snark vs. inner snark). There was a lot to follow, and starting with the prologue was a nice idea since it gave the story some much needed structure and direction for the reader. There was also a nice journey towards learning how to let someone accept you as you are (and valuing yourself as you are). But while I liked the book a lot, I think the "love to hate you stuff" was a little relentless for a too-large chunk of the book. I get that their dynamic was heavily influenced by their insecurities, and they fought their attraction *hard* but even so it was a bit much for me. (I did end up enjoying their flawed dynamic as there was a satisfying sweetness underneath.) I struggled with the last half of the book though, and it felt prolonged waiting for Courtney and Bryce to learn what it was they needed to learn. But honestly, I was glad I kept going because I really enjoyed the story. This is a new-to-me author and I'm really looking forward to reading her again! Publishes September 30, 2025. This review is based on a complimentary eARC, all opinions are my own.
July 17, 2025
I knew from the description, I was going to love The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World by Sloane Brooks, and I was absolutely right. Courtney and Bryce are multifaced and hilarious. I laughed out loud—legitimately out loud—multiple times.
The modern enemies-to-lovers concept and couple overlaid on the very traditional, very high fantasy backdrop is really refreshing.
I loved that the tension between Courtney and Bryce built so organically. Their dynamic stretched and changed and their attraction-fueled-by-antagonism fizzed like popping candy. The relationship had this lovely push-pull, soft like taffy and oh so scrumptious. And the banter?!
The! Banter!
Sharp, funny, and absolutely devastating (in the best way). There are some insults Courtney and Bryce slung that I’m compiling for future use.
Courtney and Bryce do some growing, too. Courtney’s ‘flaws’ influenced her desires and decisions, and the walls that Bryce constructed were to protect himself. Ultimately, these two embrace the message that being true to yourself—and finding someone who loves you for it—is the very best thing… even if you have to crawl into a clothing rack and/or slip into a different dimension to find it.
And it’s not just all crazy antics and sick burns—there are interesting side characters and intrigue and subversion, oh my!
Seriously, The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World has a little bit of everything. And I loved every second of it.
I had the opportunity to read an advance review copy of this book for free, with thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley. My review is honest, and given freely.
The modern enemies-to-lovers concept and couple overlaid on the very traditional, very high fantasy backdrop is really refreshing.
I loved that the tension between Courtney and Bryce built so organically. Their dynamic stretched and changed and their attraction-fueled-by-antagonism fizzed like popping candy. The relationship had this lovely push-pull, soft like taffy and oh so scrumptious. And the banter?!
The! Banter!
Sharp, funny, and absolutely devastating (in the best way). There are some insults Courtney and Bryce slung that I’m compiling for future use.
Courtney and Bryce do some growing, too. Courtney’s ‘flaws’ influenced her desires and decisions, and the walls that Bryce constructed were to protect himself. Ultimately, these two embrace the message that being true to yourself—and finding someone who loves you for it—is the very best thing… even if you have to crawl into a clothing rack and/or slip into a different dimension to find it.
And it’s not just all crazy antics and sick burns—there are interesting side characters and intrigue and subversion, oh my!
Seriously, The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World has a little bit of everything. And I loved every second of it.
I had the opportunity to read an advance review copy of this book for free, with thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley. My review is honest, and given freely.
August 30, 2025
Courtney’s has left her old life behind and is determined to stay off the corporate rat race treadmill of misery. Her neighbor Bryce is offended by her attitude and starts a campaign of annoyance. Courtney reciprocates and they are stuck in the roles of arch-nemesis and petty pranks. Until a portal shows up and brings both of them into a fantasy world, where the scripts are ready for a Chosen One to defeat the unknown Evil One. Their only hope to return home is to work together... but can they handle it.
Why I started this book: Caught my eye as I was browsing Edelwiess for This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me. I hated their formats so I also requested an ARC from Netgalley.
Why I didn't finish it: I've started this book twice, and its not for me. But I don't think that its a bad book. I love the idea of being kidnapped into a new magical kingdom. Like Magic Kingdom for Sale/Sold or The Dark Lord's Daughter. My main stumbling block is the humor. I'm not laughing. There are plenty of people who will read this and laugh the entire way through. I hope this book finds them.
Why I started this book: Caught my eye as I was browsing Edelwiess for This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me. I hated their formats so I also requested an ARC from Netgalley.
Why I didn't finish it: I've started this book twice, and its not for me. But I don't think that its a bad book. I love the idea of being kidnapped into a new magical kingdom. Like Magic Kingdom for Sale/Sold or The Dark Lord's Daughter. My main stumbling block is the humor. I'm not laughing. There are plenty of people who will read this and laugh the entire way through. I hope this book finds them.
September 26, 2025
This book feels targetted at someone who loves to read fantasy, might have a passing understanding of Dungeons & Dragons, and has vaguely considered whether they might be the Chosen One. Our FMC, Courtney, has thought a lot about being the Chosen One and what makes someone special. She has rejected the idea that commercial success is the secret, and has resigned herself to achieving absolutely nothing. Her next door neighbour Bryce, on the other hand, cannot hide his constant irritation at Courtney nor his worry about how the world can go wrong.
I think the idea of dealing with the letdown of not being a hero or living in a fantasy world is a really interesting and meta-themed. I like to think I have my own hero's journey preventing people from being illegally evicted, but I think there can be a real divide between the day to day grind and the satisfaction that fiction can offer the character arcs. The book also has some very funny things to say about who a hero is (someone positive! Who never complains!) There are a lot of enemies to lovers books, but I thought the book's insight that someone who dislikes you can be someone who sees you very authentically, including your flaws, is a thoughtful and lovely take. Brooks is a debut writer and I will be very excited to follow her career. Fans of Travis Baldree and E.B. Asher will enjoy this. Thanks to Atria Books for an early copy.
I think the idea of dealing with the letdown of not being a hero or living in a fantasy world is a really interesting and meta-themed. I like to think I have my own hero's journey preventing people from being illegally evicted, but I think there can be a real divide between the day to day grind and the satisfaction that fiction can offer the character arcs. The book also has some very funny things to say about who a hero is (someone positive! Who never complains!) There are a lot of enemies to lovers books, but I thought the book's insight that someone who dislikes you can be someone who sees you very authentically, including your flaws, is a thoughtful and lovely take. Brooks is a debut writer and I will be very excited to follow her career. Fans of Travis Baldree and E.B. Asher will enjoy this. Thanks to Atria Books for an early copy.
September 28, 2025
This book is a story about two individuals who have faced heartbreak in different ways who happen to be neighbors in a duplex apartment. First, we have Courtney who grew up in wealth and expectations. Next we have Bryce who is afraid of the world. As neighbors, they dislike each other -- or at least that's how they communicate through disdain and disagreement. One day, they both fall through a portal into another world where they are told one of them is the Chosen One who will save the day from the Evil One.
Just from the description, I had great expectations. I thought it would be a fun book with interesting characters. While I did love that the romance embraced the idea of loving a whole person, flaws and all, I struggled with the neuroses of the two main characters, particularly Courtney. I feel like the same message could have held had Courtney realized that her family was the Evil One in her life and she was fine as she was. I'm not sure she ever got there. Bryce was equally wounded but seemed to grow. Both could use a healthy dose of therapy.
What was good about the story was the adventure, interesting characters, and the plot overall. It was an interesting concept that could have been great but just fell short.
Thank you to Sloan Brooks, Atria, and NetGally for the digital ARC I was provided to read this book in return for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are my own.
Just from the description, I had great expectations. I thought it would be a fun book with interesting characters. While I did love that the romance embraced the idea of loving a whole person, flaws and all, I struggled with the neuroses of the two main characters, particularly Courtney. I feel like the same message could have held had Courtney realized that her family was the Evil One in her life and she was fine as she was. I'm not sure she ever got there. Bryce was equally wounded but seemed to grow. Both could use a healthy dose of therapy.
What was good about the story was the adventure, interesting characters, and the plot overall. It was an interesting concept that could have been great but just fell short.
Thank you to Sloan Brooks, Atria, and NetGally for the digital ARC I was provided to read this book in return for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are my own.
December 13, 2025
“After ‘The End’, you’re left cleaning up carnage and wondering how you’re going to afford therapy, you don’t feel victorious, you feel tired, hungry, and grumpy.”
“Horses are basically grass-powered motorcycles.”
“It was the Mr. Darcy conundrum. Men could be antisocial, assholes, and people thought they were hot and wanted to understand them. If I was in antisocial, asshole, people told me to smile more.”
Title: The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World
Author: Sloane Brooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for character’s and banter
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3.5 for over all book
🌶️🌶️
This is a fantasy romance book.
When Courtney gives up all the expectations others have for her, she decides to live authentically. She gets a low-level job at a local home improvement store. She has an instant hate for her next-door neighbor Bryce. When Bryce gets a little curious and follows her to work one day, they find themselves in another world where they are trying to become that world’s “Chosen One”.
This book was fun! The characters were so well written and highly enjoyed the enemies to lovers troupe in this book. The way the author wrote the sarcasm and the banter back and forth kept me moving through this book. The plot itself was kind of dumb. The characters are what made this book worth reading. If you like sarcastic, banter, and quick wit, this book is for you.
“Horses are basically grass-powered motorcycles.”
“It was the Mr. Darcy conundrum. Men could be antisocial, assholes, and people thought they were hot and wanted to understand them. If I was in antisocial, asshole, people told me to smile more.”
Title: The Underachiever’s Guide to Love and Saving the World
Author: Sloane Brooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for character’s and banter
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3.5 for over all book
🌶️🌶️
This is a fantasy romance book.
When Courtney gives up all the expectations others have for her, she decides to live authentically. She gets a low-level job at a local home improvement store. She has an instant hate for her next-door neighbor Bryce. When Bryce gets a little curious and follows her to work one day, they find themselves in another world where they are trying to become that world’s “Chosen One”.
This book was fun! The characters were so well written and highly enjoyed the enemies to lovers troupe in this book. The way the author wrote the sarcasm and the banter back and forth kept me moving through this book. The plot itself was kind of dumb. The characters are what made this book worth reading. If you like sarcastic, banter, and quick wit, this book is for you.
July 23, 2025
This book is chaos incarnate. Courtney is a former overachiever who has given up on meeting expectations and Bryce is terrified of everything, especially being abandoned. They are two extremely unlikeable people on their own, but their dynamic absolutely works when they are together. Their pettiness war was hilarious, and I really enjoyed this take on what heros could be. I'm not sure how well this book will age because of all the pop culture references, but I absolutely did laugh at the Leeroy Jenkins part.
Weirdly, I didn't love the chapter names. I stopped reading them about halfway through when I realized that they were mini spoilers of what was going to happen in that chapter. I also don't really understand the point of the hero trials, since it didn't actually affect the plot at all. I would've preferred just hearing Courtney and Bryce bicker for a whole chapter, since that is absolutely my love language. Plus, it would've given more time to connect with Kelly, because she seems great but we only get to see her for like 2 chapters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the free eARC.
Weirdly, I didn't love the chapter names. I stopped reading them about halfway through when I realized that they were mini spoilers of what was going to happen in that chapter. I also don't really understand the point of the hero trials, since it didn't actually affect the plot at all. I would've preferred just hearing Courtney and Bryce bicker for a whole chapter, since that is absolutely my love language. Plus, it would've given more time to connect with Kelly, because she seems great but we only get to see her for like 2 chapters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the free eARC.
November 25, 2025
The Underachiever's Guide to Love and Saving the World by Sloane Brooks was an unexpected delight. I hadn't heard a single thing about this book—I spotted it at the grocery store, was intrigued by the cover art and the back synopsis, and decided to give it a try. I flew through it. What an absolute gem. Truly, someone get this author more marketing because this book deserves to be everywhere.
The writing style felt like watching a Mel Brooks movie come to life—witty, sarcastic, and somehow still emotionally deep. The humor was sharp, clever, and perfectly timed. The character development was outstanding, even though (let’s be honest) the characters bicker constantly and can both be equally annoying. But that was the beauty of it. It wasn’t the same old fantasy-romance formula. Instead, it leaned into its own chaotic charm.
This book is wit and sarcasm at its absolute finest. It reads almost like a loving parody of the romantasy genre—playfully poking fun at its tropes without ever being cruel or dismissive. It’s fresh, it’s fun, and it stands out in all the best ways.
I absolutely cannot wait to read more from this author.
The writing style felt like watching a Mel Brooks movie come to life—witty, sarcastic, and somehow still emotionally deep. The humor was sharp, clever, and perfectly timed. The character development was outstanding, even though (let’s be honest) the characters bicker constantly and can both be equally annoying. But that was the beauty of it. It wasn’t the same old fantasy-romance formula. Instead, it leaned into its own chaotic charm.
This book is wit and sarcasm at its absolute finest. It reads almost like a loving parody of the romantasy genre—playfully poking fun at its tropes without ever being cruel or dismissive. It’s fresh, it’s fun, and it stands out in all the best ways.
I absolutely cannot wait to read more from this author.
December 10, 2025
Thank you to Atria Books and Sloane Brooks for the gifted eARC of The Underachiever’s Guide to Saving the World! All opinions are my own.
Honestly, this book had me sold before I even knew the premise because the author was posting her chapter titles on threads, so here are a few of my favorites:
“Chapter 1: In Which The Chosen One Suffers From Occupational Burnout”
“Chapter 5: In Which I Discover A Sh!++Ier Version Of Narnia”
“Chapter 9: In Which We Have Two Functioning Beds But Choose To Share One Anyway”
“Chapter 16: In Which One Cannot Simply Girlboss Their Way Through Being A Chosen One”
“Chapter 34: In Which I Speak At Length About The Unspeakable Things We Did In The Library”
I feel like the culmination of the chapter titles really capture the essence of this story in a way that is just lazy enough to make my inner Courtney proud. This book is fun, snarky, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. If you were once the gifted and talented kid praised for all your success and now feel like you’re a mediocre adult struggling to stay afloat, but also enjoy a nice dose of fantasy, then you’ll love this book!
Honestly, this book had me sold before I even knew the premise because the author was posting her chapter titles on threads, so here are a few of my favorites:
“Chapter 1: In Which The Chosen One Suffers From Occupational Burnout”
“Chapter 5: In Which I Discover A Sh!++Ier Version Of Narnia”
“Chapter 9: In Which We Have Two Functioning Beds But Choose To Share One Anyway”
“Chapter 16: In Which One Cannot Simply Girlboss Their Way Through Being A Chosen One”
“Chapter 34: In Which I Speak At Length About The Unspeakable Things We Did In The Library”
I feel like the culmination of the chapter titles really capture the essence of this story in a way that is just lazy enough to make my inner Courtney proud. This book is fun, snarky, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. If you were once the gifted and talented kid praised for all your success and now feel like you’re a mediocre adult struggling to stay afloat, but also enjoy a nice dose of fantasy, then you’ll love this book!
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