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Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage
To the world, Jessica and Jack have the perfect marriage, and a megahit book to show for it. But behind the scenes, they are falling apart. Can they use their own bestselling rules to save their marriage?
They are so glamorous, so happy, so sickeningly in love that when they publish a book about the seven rules to building a marriage, it becomes a bestseller. But for Jessica and Jack, it’s not that simple. ???????
Jack doesn’t understand why Jessica chronicles their whole lives online, or why “the brand” seemingly dictates their every move. Jessica doesn’t understand why Jack isn’t happy with their success. Not to mention that this is her dream job, and it gives them a lifestyle most people can only dream of. The couple was once truly, deeply in love, but after ten years together, the rise to internet fame and a gruelling book tour have rubbed the shine off their happiness. They’re stuck, but neither of them wants their marriage to become collateral damage.
The last item on their tour agenda is a workshop retreat with a collection of qualified practitioners, tailored perfectly to the book’s messages and geared toward healing the participants’ marriages. But this retreat will be instead of serving as celebrity window dressing, Jack and Jessica will be joining in and putting their seven rules into practice for themselves.
They’re about to learn that the first and only rule to a perfect marriage is that there is no such thing as perfect. And in fact, there might be a lot more to life than rules . . .
They are so glamorous, so happy, so sickeningly in love that when they publish a book about the seven rules to building a marriage, it becomes a bestseller. But for Jessica and Jack, it’s not that simple. ???????
Jack doesn’t understand why Jessica chronicles their whole lives online, or why “the brand” seemingly dictates their every move. Jessica doesn’t understand why Jack isn’t happy with their success. Not to mention that this is her dream job, and it gives them a lifestyle most people can only dream of. The couple was once truly, deeply in love, but after ten years together, the rise to internet fame and a gruelling book tour have rubbed the shine off their happiness. They’re stuck, but neither of them wants their marriage to become collateral damage.
The last item on their tour agenda is a workshop retreat with a collection of qualified practitioners, tailored perfectly to the book’s messages and geared toward healing the participants’ marriages. But this retreat will be instead of serving as celebrity window dressing, Jack and Jessica will be joining in and putting their seven rules into practice for themselves.
They’re about to learn that the first and only rule to a perfect marriage is that there is no such thing as perfect. And in fact, there might be a lot more to life than rules . . .
304 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2025
28 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 24, 2025
This book was definitely unique and not ur typical romance book. It portrays some real struggles and challenges faced in life.
I couldn’t put the book down which was a big indicator that I was enjoying my time while reading. I read this in one sitting.
The main characters were very flawed and had a lot of work to do regarding their relationship. I loved that they were complex and not good or bad but a heavy mix of both.
It was depressing for a big majority of the book which was my only complaint. I still feel like there could have been a better or more detailed chunk of the book towards the end showing us the healthy progress in their relationship. I wish we could’ve seen them being happy for more than just the epilogue chapter. We were told it all happened and not shown which left me feeling a little bitter about reading and sticking with them thru their struggles but not really getting the fruit of all that patience.
I’m really glad I picked this up though because it was unique in a way I rlly appreciated.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc for the ARC! ♥︎
I couldn’t put the book down which was a big indicator that I was enjoying my time while reading. I read this in one sitting.
The main characters were very flawed and had a lot of work to do regarding their relationship. I loved that they were complex and not good or bad but a heavy mix of both.
It was depressing for a big majority of the book which was my only complaint. I still feel like there could have been a better or more detailed chunk of the book towards the end showing us the healthy progress in their relationship. I wish we could’ve seen them being happy for more than just the epilogue chapter. We were told it all happened and not shown which left me feeling a little bitter about reading and sticking with them thru their struggles but not really getting the fruit of all that patience.
I’m really glad I picked this up though because it was unique in a way I rlly appreciated.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc for the ARC! ♥︎
September 20, 2025
TW: infertility, miscarriage, abortion, marriage struggles.
this book had me texting my girlfriend thanking them for the fact we’re lesbians together. If I wanted a straight romance with a couple who shouldn’t be together I’d just speak to parents.
in all seriousness, do you know how bad it’s got to be that I sided with the straight white middle class man over the female main character? because I did. I think these guys were genuinely the worst couple in the world and it was so ironic of them to become famous for having the perfect relationship when essentially what they did was have the worst relationship, give people advice on how to have a good one and then ignore every piece of advice themselves.
each rule they made was actually made because of lying or avoidance or miscommunication. I don’t think they ever actually had a conversation where they listened to each other and I truly think they’re so bad together it’s laughable. I binge read this hoping and praying they would mature up and communicate but left it staring at the floor in disbelief that couples like this exist
this book had me texting my girlfriend thanking them for the fact we’re lesbians together. If I wanted a straight romance with a couple who shouldn’t be together I’d just speak to parents.
in all seriousness, do you know how bad it’s got to be that I sided with the straight white middle class man over the female main character? because I did. I think these guys were genuinely the worst couple in the world and it was so ironic of them to become famous for having the perfect relationship when essentially what they did was have the worst relationship, give people advice on how to have a good one and then ignore every piece of advice themselves.
each rule they made was actually made because of lying or avoidance or miscommunication. I don’t think they ever actually had a conversation where they listened to each other and I truly think they’re so bad together it’s laughable. I binge read this hoping and praying they would mature up and communicate but left it staring at the floor in disbelief that couples like this exist
July 1, 2025
Thank you to the author, publisher & Net Galley for the opportunity to read this before release ✨
I can safely say I was invested from Jack & Jessica from the very start! Maybe it’s because i’m a newlywed, married to my childhood sweetheart - but there was just something captivating about it all!
None of us know where our relationship will end up, and this book (in my opinion) perfectly represented the effort it takes to choose your partner and love your partner even when you both know something’s a bit off-beat.
In the end, you’re a team - which Jessica & Jack seem to simultaneously realise and forget throughout.
I was stressed OUT for both of them in the end; I was so invested and honestly didn’t know how their story would end.
The novelty of the Seven Rules and the retreat was actually quite fun & I enjoyed the throwbacks to other moments in their relationship when developing the “rules”.
Themes of infertility are throughout, and I think they were dealt with in quite a relatable way - particularly in how they can place unrealised strain on a relationship.
I genuinely really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more from Rebecca Reid as her writing style is definitely up my street! 💜
I can safely say I was invested from Jack & Jessica from the very start! Maybe it’s because i’m a newlywed, married to my childhood sweetheart - but there was just something captivating about it all!
None of us know where our relationship will end up, and this book (in my opinion) perfectly represented the effort it takes to choose your partner and love your partner even when you both know something’s a bit off-beat.
In the end, you’re a team - which Jessica & Jack seem to simultaneously realise and forget throughout.
I was stressed OUT for both of them in the end; I was so invested and honestly didn’t know how their story would end.
The novelty of the Seven Rules and the retreat was actually quite fun & I enjoyed the throwbacks to other moments in their relationship when developing the “rules”.
Themes of infertility are throughout, and I think they were dealt with in quite a relatable way - particularly in how they can place unrealised strain on a relationship.
I genuinely really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more from Rebecca Reid as her writing style is definitely up my street! 💜
August 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book surprised me in the best way. It is not a fluffy love story or a swoony escape.
It is something far more grounded, and far more meaningful.
Rebecca Reid explores the raw edges of a long term relationship with unflinching honesty.
Jack and Jessica’s picture-perfect life isn’t quite what it seems, and as their story unfolds, we see the cracks, the silence, and the effort it takes to stay connected when life keeps pulling you in different directions.
What I loved most was the realism. The dialogue is sharp, the humour hits just right, and the emotional weight never feels forced. The format, broken down by their seven ‘rules’, adds a clever framework that mirrors their unraveling in such a satisfying way.
This isn’t about falling in love, it is about choosing to stay in it. About finding your way back when things go quiet. And that felt refreshingly honest.
I only docked a star because the ending felt a bit rushed. I wanted more time to sit in it, to feel the impact of everything they’d been through. But even so, this was such an insightful, modern take on love and all the messy, beautiful work it involves.
💑 Married Couple
📸 Influencer Couple, Insta v Reality
🛋 Therapy Retreat
🤱 Infertility Representation
💬 Dual POV
This book surprised me in the best way. It is not a fluffy love story or a swoony escape.
It is something far more grounded, and far more meaningful.
Rebecca Reid explores the raw edges of a long term relationship with unflinching honesty.
Jack and Jessica’s picture-perfect life isn’t quite what it seems, and as their story unfolds, we see the cracks, the silence, and the effort it takes to stay connected when life keeps pulling you in different directions.
What I loved most was the realism. The dialogue is sharp, the humour hits just right, and the emotional weight never feels forced. The format, broken down by their seven ‘rules’, adds a clever framework that mirrors their unraveling in such a satisfying way.
This isn’t about falling in love, it is about choosing to stay in it. About finding your way back when things go quiet. And that felt refreshingly honest.
I only docked a star because the ending felt a bit rushed. I wanted more time to sit in it, to feel the impact of everything they’d been through. But even so, this was such an insightful, modern take on love and all the messy, beautiful work it involves.
💑 Married Couple
📸 Influencer Couple, Insta v Reality
🛋 Therapy Retreat
🤱 Infertility Representation
💬 Dual POV
June 7, 2025
Jessica and Jack have it all, as their social media accounts would prove; they even got them a book deal to share their seven rules for a perfect marriage. Except things are not as perfect as they seem, and in an attempt to go back to how it was, they try to follow their own rules.
Really different from a typical romcom, and definitely unique and very entertaining. It's such a compulsory read, I couldn't put it down and binged it all in a morning. The writing is great, and the story is so engaging, I was hooked from the beginning and I was so curious to see where the story would go. Both characters are flawed and messy, and they both had a lot they needed to work on, and watching them navigate through everything was really interesting.
Many thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc & NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Really different from a typical romcom, and definitely unique and very entertaining. It's such a compulsory read, I couldn't put it down and binged it all in a morning. The writing is great, and the story is so engaging, I was hooked from the beginning and I was so curious to see where the story would go. Both characters are flawed and messy, and they both had a lot they needed to work on, and watching them navigate through everything was really interesting.
Many thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc & NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
July 17, 2025
Thank you to Rebecca Reid, Bloomsbury Publishing PLC and NetGalley for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
A quiet punch to the heart. That’s what this book delivers. But in a good way that feels true and at some points will make you giggle.
Reid’s writing style is raw but elegant, mingling difficult truths about relationships, love, and the very idea of “perfection” into a narrative that feels personal. Her characters? Messy, flawed, and sometimes frustrating. Which is exactly what makes them feel real.
This book doesn’t aim to give you a blueprint for a flawless marriage, but it does explore what it means to keep trying even when everything feels cracked. It’s honest. Sometimes brutal. Always thoughtful.
A quiet punch to the heart. That’s what this book delivers. But in a good way that feels true and at some points will make you giggle.
Reid’s writing style is raw but elegant, mingling difficult truths about relationships, love, and the very idea of “perfection” into a narrative that feels personal. Her characters? Messy, flawed, and sometimes frustrating. Which is exactly what makes them feel real.
This book doesn’t aim to give you a blueprint for a flawless marriage, but it does explore what it means to keep trying even when everything feels cracked. It’s honest. Sometimes brutal. Always thoughtful.
July 28, 2025
This book was tough to get through. I can fully appreciate a story about long term marriage and the struggles that they overcome HOWEVER, all the main characters did was fight. There was maybe a total of 10 pages through the whole book where I felt like they had some sort of love for each other and from someone who has been happily married for 8 years now, it’s just not the right narrative for how the story was portrayed.
I really didn’t enjoy this one and read it all the way through only because I truly cannot DNF a book. Both characters were incredibly annoying and not very likeable. And the whole plot was just kind of bleh… 🥴
I really didn’t enjoy this one and read it all the way through only because I truly cannot DNF a book. Both characters were incredibly annoying and not very likeable. And the whole plot was just kind of bleh… 🥴
July 3, 2025
4⭐️
Honestly, this was such a good book. I enjoyed it from beginning to end, and at some point, I even forgot I was reading.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the chance to receive this ARC for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
When I first read the synopsis, I expected a typical RomCom about a married couple pretending to be the happiest people in the world while struggling behind closed doors.
And while that is partly what this book is about, I wouldn’t necessarily call it a RomCom. Instead, it takes a much more realistic look at the challenges that inevitably come with a long-term relationship.
That honesty is what I loved most—it felt so real, and I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know how J & J’s story would end. Though, I must admit I was expecting a different ending - not going to spoil you the fun 🤭
I’m really glad I got the chance to read this one, and I warmly recommend giving it a try. It’s a special read.
Honestly, this was such a good book. I enjoyed it from beginning to end, and at some point, I even forgot I was reading.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the chance to receive this ARC for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
When I first read the synopsis, I expected a typical RomCom about a married couple pretending to be the happiest people in the world while struggling behind closed doors.
And while that is partly what this book is about, I wouldn’t necessarily call it a RomCom. Instead, it takes a much more realistic look at the challenges that inevitably come with a long-term relationship.
That honesty is what I loved most—it felt so real, and I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know how J & J’s story would end. Though, I must admit I was expecting a different ending - not going to spoil you the fun 🤭
I’m really glad I got the chance to read this one, and I warmly recommend giving it a try. It’s a special read.
May 24, 2025
I was really intrigued by this book and the 7 rules, especially the first one - Go to bed on an argument (I initially that it was a misprint as I had always been told to NEVER go to sleep on an argument!)
This is not just a typical romance book but so much more and although it's fiction I have genuinely opened my mind and learnt so much from the 7 rules concept, and seen how the same experience you have with your partner can be seen from a completely different perspective, and how so much left unsaid or misconstrued can cause so much unnecessary stress and hurt.
It is written in a dual POV and dual timelines, following Jessica and Jack in the here and now - new best selling authors of their "7 rules for a Perfect Marriage" book release, and the challenges they are facing as individuals and within their relationship. It also switches timelines back to when they first met and up until present day.
I loved that the book is divided into chapters based on the 7 rules with each chapter having the dual POV/timelines explaining the significance at that point in the book.
I love how real and raw the book is, exploring realistic situations around love, family and fertility issues and that the ending is left open ended in terms of the fertility difficulties Jack and Jessica are having conceiving, as I feel if the book ended having managed to conceive it might take away from the challenges discussed as sometimes not everyone gets the HEA, but also leaving it open might still bring hope to people who are going through the same experience.
It has made me think very differently myself as well. Reading different perspectives between friends Jessica and Grace - Jessica who is desperate to fall pregnant and struggled with years of disappointment, and Grace who has 2 children who are absolute whirlwind energies.
As a parent, I wholeheartedly resonate with Grace and the neverending relentlessness of parenting, and although I wouldn't want to not have my girls (2 and 4yo) also envying people who can wake up whenever they want undisturbed or drink a cup of tea while it is still hot, leave the house any time without having to think about packing a bag of stuff for the kids or having to go back to the house multiple times for something forgotten. I miss lighting candles and having nice things out without them getting damaged. Speaking with friends when I eventually have a minute to myself, and realising that 99% of what I have to talk about is how tired I am and about my kids.
Although I was horrifically unwell with traumatic births for both daughters, I never had any issues conceiving. I remember 6 weeks into my first born pregnancy I had (what I know now) implantation bleeding but at the time I was terrified and when I went to the hospital I was blindsided when they said there WAS still a heartbeat.
Reading this book, and reading about Grace and the struggles she has had has opened my eyes a bit. When she hears Grace complaining about what a handful the kids are, she is envious of the chaos, desperate for little sticky hands to wrap themselves round her and call her mum. No one understood truly what Grace was going through with the struggles, hope and grief each month trying to conceive, and being unsuccessful. The strain it would have on the relationship when sex has to be planned around your cycle, taking away the love and connection that carefree sex with your partner should be. Then having to deal with the intrusion from friends, family and strangers / interviewers around their book release repeatedly asking when they are having kids, what are they waiting for, why they have decided to remain childless - not understanding the desperation of wanting to be a mother or Jack a father, and not wanting to have to discuss something so personal.
I have truly learnt so much on some very difficult topics however despite these topics, Reid has written it so tenderly but also keeping it real and the book flowed really well. I wouldn't want people to be put off reading thinking it is very heavy in content because it was fantastic!
There was banter and love and connection and healing. I thoroughly enjoyed it and anything less than 5 stars for me, would be an injustice.
This is not just a typical romance book but so much more and although it's fiction I have genuinely opened my mind and learnt so much from the 7 rules concept, and seen how the same experience you have with your partner can be seen from a completely different perspective, and how so much left unsaid or misconstrued can cause so much unnecessary stress and hurt.
It is written in a dual POV and dual timelines, following Jessica and Jack in the here and now - new best selling authors of their "7 rules for a Perfect Marriage" book release, and the challenges they are facing as individuals and within their relationship. It also switches timelines back to when they first met and up until present day.
I loved that the book is divided into chapters based on the 7 rules with each chapter having the dual POV/timelines explaining the significance at that point in the book.
I love how real and raw the book is, exploring realistic situations around love, family and fertility issues and that the ending is left open ended in terms of the fertility difficulties Jack and Jessica are having conceiving, as I feel if the book ended having managed to conceive it might take away from the challenges discussed as sometimes not everyone gets the HEA, but also leaving it open might still bring hope to people who are going through the same experience.
It has made me think very differently myself as well. Reading different perspectives between friends Jessica and Grace - Jessica who is desperate to fall pregnant and struggled with years of disappointment, and Grace who has 2 children who are absolute whirlwind energies.
As a parent, I wholeheartedly resonate with Grace and the neverending relentlessness of parenting, and although I wouldn't want to not have my girls (2 and 4yo) also envying people who can wake up whenever they want undisturbed or drink a cup of tea while it is still hot, leave the house any time without having to think about packing a bag of stuff for the kids or having to go back to the house multiple times for something forgotten. I miss lighting candles and having nice things out without them getting damaged. Speaking with friends when I eventually have a minute to myself, and realising that 99% of what I have to talk about is how tired I am and about my kids.
Although I was horrifically unwell with traumatic births for both daughters, I never had any issues conceiving. I remember 6 weeks into my first born pregnancy I had (what I know now) implantation bleeding but at the time I was terrified and when I went to the hospital I was blindsided when they said there WAS still a heartbeat.
Reading this book, and reading about Grace and the struggles she has had has opened my eyes a bit. When she hears Grace complaining about what a handful the kids are, she is envious of the chaos, desperate for little sticky hands to wrap themselves round her and call her mum. No one understood truly what Grace was going through with the struggles, hope and grief each month trying to conceive, and being unsuccessful. The strain it would have on the relationship when sex has to be planned around your cycle, taking away the love and connection that carefree sex with your partner should be. Then having to deal with the intrusion from friends, family and strangers / interviewers around their book release repeatedly asking when they are having kids, what are they waiting for, why they have decided to remain childless - not understanding the desperation of wanting to be a mother or Jack a father, and not wanting to have to discuss something so personal.
I have truly learnt so much on some very difficult topics however despite these topics, Reid has written it so tenderly but also keeping it real and the book flowed really well. I wouldn't want people to be put off reading thinking it is very heavy in content because it was fantastic!
There was banter and love and connection and healing. I thoroughly enjoyed it and anything less than 5 stars for me, would be an injustice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2025
This book is not your typical romance. It is brutally real and authentic in its depiction of a modern-day relationship.
I will preface this review by saying that fertility issues are a large topic throughout, and although done sensitively, the nature of the main character’s struggles are heavy.
There’s one thing that can make modern-day relationships more difficult and that is social media. Now imagine your income, marriage and social-standing is purely reliant on using social media to influence others to improve their own relationships, when you’re struggling with your own.
Jessica and Jack fell in love in university and have been together ever since. They’ve overcome their struggles of long distance, navigating each other’s families and finding careers that work for them. Except, Jessica has made her career on social media, causing Jack to give up his job and jump headfirst into the world of influencing with his wife.
Making a career out of providing advice for other married couples, the Seven Rules are all it comes down to.
Rule One – Ignore the old advice and go to bed on an argument – staying up fighting never helps
Rule Two – You are your partner’s greatest cheerleader, act like it
Rule Three – 100% honesty, 100% of the time
Rule Four – Sex and intimacy have to be a priority, even when life gets in the way
Rule Five – Self-care isn’t selfish; make time to make yourself the best possible person
Rule Six – Your parents are your family and your responsibility
Rule Seven – Always leave the party together
After their social media blows up and they release a book, Jessica and Jack begin to realise that they haven’t been paying enough attention to their own marriage. Book tours and interviews, followed by a potential second book has them both coming to terms with the idea that maybe, they no longer want the same thing.
“But how the hell do you square the circle if doing the stuff which keeps a roof over your heads is making your partner like you less?”
It isn’t until they host a retreat to help other couples navigate the Seven Rules that Jack and Jessica begin to notice the strain that social media is taking on their own relationship.
We spend hours upon hours of time being influenced by people online, yet how many of us stop to think about how their role in the modern online world is taking a toll on their own lives? They have an image to upkeep for the sake of their income. I’ve read a lot of romance books, and not only is this one a completely different take on the genre, it really made me look at those online from a different perspective.
It’s a funny, heart-breaking story of how those who teach others to be happy in their relationships learn to start taking their own advice. It’s real, and brutal, in the sense that a lot of their problems are relevant. And all it bodes down to, is finding your own interpretation of love.
I highly recommend Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage if you’re looking for something a little different to the usual romance books. This isn’t necessarily a romance, it’s a love story. And it’s brilliant.
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I will preface this review by saying that fertility issues are a large topic throughout, and although done sensitively, the nature of the main character’s struggles are heavy.
There’s one thing that can make modern-day relationships more difficult and that is social media. Now imagine your income, marriage and social-standing is purely reliant on using social media to influence others to improve their own relationships, when you’re struggling with your own.
“I want a monitor, a spirit guide, a specialist. I want to call someone, like I do when the dishwasher breaks or there is a leak in the rook; I want to hire the most expensive, best-reviewed professional to swoop in, diagnose the issue and solve it immediately. But of course I can’t do that, because if an expert like that – someone you can parachute in to fix a broken relationship – exists, it’s us.”
Jessica and Jack fell in love in university and have been together ever since. They’ve overcome their struggles of long distance, navigating each other’s families and finding careers that work for them. Except, Jessica has made her career on social media, causing Jack to give up his job and jump headfirst into the world of influencing with his wife.
Making a career out of providing advice for other married couples, the Seven Rules are all it comes down to.
Rule One – Ignore the old advice and go to bed on an argument – staying up fighting never helps
Rule Two – You are your partner’s greatest cheerleader, act like it
Rule Three – 100% honesty, 100% of the time
Rule Four – Sex and intimacy have to be a priority, even when life gets in the way
Rule Five – Self-care isn’t selfish; make time to make yourself the best possible person
Rule Six – Your parents are your family and your responsibility
Rule Seven – Always leave the party together
After their social media blows up and they release a book, Jessica and Jack begin to realise that they haven’t been paying enough attention to their own marriage. Book tours and interviews, followed by a potential second book has them both coming to terms with the idea that maybe, they no longer want the same thing.
“But how the hell do you square the circle if doing the stuff which keeps a roof over your heads is making your partner like you less?”
It isn’t until they host a retreat to help other couples navigate the Seven Rules that Jack and Jessica begin to notice the strain that social media is taking on their own relationship.
We spend hours upon hours of time being influenced by people online, yet how many of us stop to think about how their role in the modern online world is taking a toll on their own lives? They have an image to upkeep for the sake of their income. I’ve read a lot of romance books, and not only is this one a completely different take on the genre, it really made me look at those online from a different perspective.
It’s a funny, heart-breaking story of how those who teach others to be happy in their relationships learn to start taking their own advice. It’s real, and brutal, in the sense that a lot of their problems are relevant. And all it bodes down to, is finding your own interpretation of love.
“That’s love. Doing the bins. Trying to cheer me up, even when he knows that anything he says will be wrong. Giving me space to process alone, then coming to hold me when I’m ready.”
I highly recommend Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage if you’re looking for something a little different to the usual romance books. This isn’t necessarily a romance, it’s a love story. And it’s brilliant.
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2025
“I’d rather lose with you than win with anyone else.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
What you’ll find in this book:
- Contemporary Fiction
- Love & Growth
- Relationship Drama
- Marriage Struggles
- Social Media vs Reality
- Behind the Perfect Image
- Real, Messy and Complicated
This book perfectly conveys the message that happily ever after isn’t always what everyone assumes it to be. That life and love is complicated, messy and perfectly imperfect, these characters were real, chaotic and sometimes frustrating. I really enjoyed how refreshing this story is and how unique its take on relationships are, how modern life can get in the way with its frustrations and challenges and how two people who love each other can work it out. Packed full of humour, heart ache, love and the messiness of it all this book is the perfect reminder of how being perfect doesn’t always matter. Covering some sensitive topics delicately but demonstrating the carelessness that can be displayed by others had this book hitting like a punch to the gut.
From the outside looking in Jessica and Jake have it all, the world sees their seemingly perfect marriage from their social media account which shows two people sickeningly in love with one another which has lead them to landing a best selling book deal where they share their seven rules for a perfect marriage. However,behind closed doors nothing is as it seems, with Jessica determined to continue their influencer and writer success and Jack finding out quickly that he hates living the life of an Instagram husband, and in the midst of it all these two have stopped prioritising each other. In an attempt to reignite their relationship and bring it back to how it once used to be they go back to the beginning, ensuring that they follow their own rules along the way. As they try to work to find each other once again, they begin to realise there is no such thing as perfect, and that there is a lot more that goes into making a marriage work other than following seven simple rules.
Jessica and Jack are absolute chaos, when we meet them it is clear that they are finding it difficult with petty jabs and actions being used to display their displeasure for one another behind closed doors. Jessica having filled like the one that has been dragging their relationship down for so long is thriving in her new found fame, and adores doing what she loves helping others with their relationships no matter the problem. However, this role comes with obligations and one of those in Jessica’s mind includes portraying the picture perfect marriage at all times, burying the issues between her and Jack deeper and deeper. Fully feeling that she is helping both herself and Jack by pursuing higher levels of influencer fame she doesn’t take time to realise that her other half is no longer as happy as he once was. Jack is miserable, but instead of sharing his feelings he bottles them up, thinking that supporting Jessica while suffering in silence is the best way forward which couldn’t be further from the truth.
As the book goes on we get to witness as these two work on themselves and their relationship that is far from perfect, how the mistakes they make and issues with communication set them back until they reach boiling point. I thoroughly enjoyed reading as they find themselves back to each other, it isn’t easy and it isn’t pretty and it’s hard work but it’s a rewarding read. I loved how this book felt so real, how the characters could be people you could meet tomorrow, a great book that reminded me why I enjoy contemporary fiction.
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury Publishing for sending me a physical copy to read and review early.
Author: Rebecca Reid
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
Release Date: July 31st, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
What you’ll find in this book:
- Contemporary Fiction
- Love & Growth
- Relationship Drama
- Marriage Struggles
- Social Media vs Reality
- Behind the Perfect Image
- Real, Messy and Complicated
This book perfectly conveys the message that happily ever after isn’t always what everyone assumes it to be. That life and love is complicated, messy and perfectly imperfect, these characters were real, chaotic and sometimes frustrating. I really enjoyed how refreshing this story is and how unique its take on relationships are, how modern life can get in the way with its frustrations and challenges and how two people who love each other can work it out. Packed full of humour, heart ache, love and the messiness of it all this book is the perfect reminder of how being perfect doesn’t always matter. Covering some sensitive topics delicately but demonstrating the carelessness that can be displayed by others had this book hitting like a punch to the gut.
From the outside looking in Jessica and Jake have it all, the world sees their seemingly perfect marriage from their social media account which shows two people sickeningly in love with one another which has lead them to landing a best selling book deal where they share their seven rules for a perfect marriage. However,behind closed doors nothing is as it seems, with Jessica determined to continue their influencer and writer success and Jack finding out quickly that he hates living the life of an Instagram husband, and in the midst of it all these two have stopped prioritising each other. In an attempt to reignite their relationship and bring it back to how it once used to be they go back to the beginning, ensuring that they follow their own rules along the way. As they try to work to find each other once again, they begin to realise there is no such thing as perfect, and that there is a lot more that goes into making a marriage work other than following seven simple rules.
Jessica and Jack are absolute chaos, when we meet them it is clear that they are finding it difficult with petty jabs and actions being used to display their displeasure for one another behind closed doors. Jessica having filled like the one that has been dragging their relationship down for so long is thriving in her new found fame, and adores doing what she loves helping others with their relationships no matter the problem. However, this role comes with obligations and one of those in Jessica’s mind includes portraying the picture perfect marriage at all times, burying the issues between her and Jack deeper and deeper. Fully feeling that she is helping both herself and Jack by pursuing higher levels of influencer fame she doesn’t take time to realise that her other half is no longer as happy as he once was. Jack is miserable, but instead of sharing his feelings he bottles them up, thinking that supporting Jessica while suffering in silence is the best way forward which couldn’t be further from the truth.
As the book goes on we get to witness as these two work on themselves and their relationship that is far from perfect, how the mistakes they make and issues with communication set them back until they reach boiling point. I thoroughly enjoyed reading as they find themselves back to each other, it isn’t easy and it isn’t pretty and it’s hard work but it’s a rewarding read. I loved how this book felt so real, how the characters could be people you could meet tomorrow, a great book that reminded me why I enjoy contemporary fiction.
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury Publishing for sending me a physical copy to read and review early.
Author: Rebecca Reid
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
Release Date: July 31st, 2025
July 1, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC.
Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage explores the reality behind the curated image of the perfect relationship. Jessica and Jack have become a social media success story, offering advice on how to build a strong marriage through their book and luxury retreats. But behind the glossy Instagram posts lies a relationship fraying at the seams. The story alternates between the present day and flashbacks, revealing the truth behind each of the seven rules they claim to live by.
This was an enjoyable and easy read. Rebecca Reid’s writing is accessible and often witty, and she tackles the complexities of long-term relationships with honesty. There are some sharp observations throughout, especially around the pressures couples face to maintain appearances both in private and online. The structure, with each chapter reflecting a different rule of their relationship, adds an interesting layer and mirrors how things have slowly unraveled between Jessica and Jack. It’s a clever setup that makes you reflect on what actually holds a marriage together.
That said, I did find parts of the book dragging. There were moments where I skimmed through scenes, particularly those heavy with internal back-and-forths that didn’t feel like they moved the plot along. Some of the emotional conflict felt repetitive, and I found myself wishing the story would push forward a bit more quickly.
I also struggled to connect with the main characters. Both Jessica and Jack are flawed in a very human way, which is likely intentional, but at times their inability to communicate or compromise became frustrating. I wanted to root for them, but often found myself feeling more exasperated than empathetic.
Still, the book’s themes are important and relatable. It shines a light on what happens after the happily ever after, and how relationships can erode quietly under the pressure of unspoken resentment, ambition, and miscommunication. If you enjoy contemporary fiction that digs into the messiness of love and long-term commitment, this is a solid read. It may not be a sweeping romance, but it does ask the kind of questions that linger long after the final chapter.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC.
Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage explores the reality behind the curated image of the perfect relationship. Jessica and Jack have become a social media success story, offering advice on how to build a strong marriage through their book and luxury retreats. But behind the glossy Instagram posts lies a relationship fraying at the seams. The story alternates between the present day and flashbacks, revealing the truth behind each of the seven rules they claim to live by.
This was an enjoyable and easy read. Rebecca Reid’s writing is accessible and often witty, and she tackles the complexities of long-term relationships with honesty. There are some sharp observations throughout, especially around the pressures couples face to maintain appearances both in private and online. The structure, with each chapter reflecting a different rule of their relationship, adds an interesting layer and mirrors how things have slowly unraveled between Jessica and Jack. It’s a clever setup that makes you reflect on what actually holds a marriage together.
That said, I did find parts of the book dragging. There were moments where I skimmed through scenes, particularly those heavy with internal back-and-forths that didn’t feel like they moved the plot along. Some of the emotional conflict felt repetitive, and I found myself wishing the story would push forward a bit more quickly.
I also struggled to connect with the main characters. Both Jessica and Jack are flawed in a very human way, which is likely intentional, but at times their inability to communicate or compromise became frustrating. I wanted to root for them, but often found myself feeling more exasperated than empathetic.
Still, the book’s themes are important and relatable. It shines a light on what happens after the happily ever after, and how relationships can erode quietly under the pressure of unspoken resentment, ambition, and miscommunication. If you enjoy contemporary fiction that digs into the messiness of love and long-term commitment, this is a solid read. It may not be a sweeping romance, but it does ask the kind of questions that linger long after the final chapter.
February 5, 2025
This was a really interesting read - not typical of your usual romance but I enjoyed it because of that.
We meet a couple on a book tour who are publicising their book 'Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage' and we quickly discover that neither Jack nor Jessica are happy in their marriage, but are plastering on smiles to appear perfectly happy as they conceal their emotions from each other.
I enjoyed how this book was set out - with a combination of viewpoints and time settings. I felt that we had a really good insight to each character's perspective and got a sense of their emotions on as things progressed.
I really liked the aspect of using social media the way it was used in this book. I know it can be a good thing, but acknowledging that it can also be harmful if it becomes centralised in a negative way was nice to see (and how this was done).
The content warnings gave me a minute to think about actually reading this, but I decided to go ahead and hoped I'd be ok. I thought the topics covered (that I have experienced) were done so in a way that was sensitive and compassionate. I appreciated that and felt it added a bit of depth to everything happening in Jack and Jessica's lives.
If you're looking for a romance where people meet, fall in love and have some sort of drama to overcome, this isn't it. This is more angsty than I'd usually settle for because we spend a lot of time in the midst of a couple's 'difficulties' while they work on what's going on and how they're meant to fit the new environment evolving around them. But, as an old married lady (I've got double the time on Jack and Jessica) it was actually a bit refreshing to read this. I think it's a decent reflection on time and change and growth.
I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this. It was refreshing to read a romance that centered around an established couple growing, and I was fully engaged in the story from start to end!
Thanks to NetGally for the review copy of this book.
We meet a couple on a book tour who are publicising their book 'Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage' and we quickly discover that neither Jack nor Jessica are happy in their marriage, but are plastering on smiles to appear perfectly happy as they conceal their emotions from each other.
I enjoyed how this book was set out - with a combination of viewpoints and time settings. I felt that we had a really good insight to each character's perspective and got a sense of their emotions on as things progressed.
I really liked the aspect of using social media the way it was used in this book. I know it can be a good thing, but acknowledging that it can also be harmful if it becomes centralised in a negative way was nice to see (and how this was done).
The content warnings gave me a minute to think about actually reading this, but I decided to go ahead and hoped I'd be ok. I thought the topics covered (that I have experienced) were done so in a way that was sensitive and compassionate. I appreciated that and felt it added a bit of depth to everything happening in Jack and Jessica's lives.
If you're looking for a romance where people meet, fall in love and have some sort of drama to overcome, this isn't it. This is more angsty than I'd usually settle for because we spend a lot of time in the midst of a couple's 'difficulties' while they work on what's going on and how they're meant to fit the new environment evolving around them. But, as an old married lady (I've got double the time on Jack and Jessica) it was actually a bit refreshing to read this. I think it's a decent reflection on time and change and growth.
I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this. It was refreshing to read a romance that centered around an established couple growing, and I was fully engaged in the story from start to end!
Thanks to NetGally for the review copy of this book.
March 3, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC!
I will be thinking about this book for a long time!
I want to preface this by saying that this is a love story, not a romance book (due to this, I think I loved it more)
I devoured this book in one sitting and stayed up until 3am reading it because once I started, I just could not put it down!
The story follows Jack and Jessica, a married couple who have just published a book depicting seven rules the recommend all couples abide by in order to have a perfect marriage. They attend a retreat, as part of their book promotion, set up for struggling couples to try and help them by teaching them their seven rules.
However, privately, Jack and Jessica are having marriage troubles themselves (marriage in crisis is my favourite book trope) and decide to take part in the retreat themselves to help solve their issues.
It is written very cleverly with each chapter title named after one of the seven rules and is also written in a dual timeline with flashbacks to the couples happy beginning to their not so perfect present day. I really liked the contrast of the two timelines and found it made the characters more relatable and made me really root for their relationship.
The main characters in this story are flawed and messy and feel so genuine and real that you can’t help but fall in love with them. At points during the book I wanted to scream at them to communicate better but, ultimately this made them seem more realistic.
The book delves into really important topics such as infertility and money struggles alongside genuine relationship troubles.
Overall, I loved this book! I have no notes and will be recommending it to everyone who will listen when it’s published
I will be thinking about this book for a long time!
I want to preface this by saying that this is a love story, not a romance book (due to this, I think I loved it more)
I devoured this book in one sitting and stayed up until 3am reading it because once I started, I just could not put it down!
The story follows Jack and Jessica, a married couple who have just published a book depicting seven rules the recommend all couples abide by in order to have a perfect marriage. They attend a retreat, as part of their book promotion, set up for struggling couples to try and help them by teaching them their seven rules.
However, privately, Jack and Jessica are having marriage troubles themselves (marriage in crisis is my favourite book trope) and decide to take part in the retreat themselves to help solve their issues.
It is written very cleverly with each chapter title named after one of the seven rules and is also written in a dual timeline with flashbacks to the couples happy beginning to their not so perfect present day. I really liked the contrast of the two timelines and found it made the characters more relatable and made me really root for their relationship.
The main characters in this story are flawed and messy and feel so genuine and real that you can’t help but fall in love with them. At points during the book I wanted to scream at them to communicate better but, ultimately this made them seem more realistic.
The book delves into really important topics such as infertility and money struggles alongside genuine relationship troubles.
Overall, I loved this book! I have no notes and will be recommending it to everyone who will listen when it’s published
August 11, 2025
I really enjoyed Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage. It follows the story of Jack and Jessica, an influencer couple who write the book together ‘Seven Rules…’ alongside a look into their relationship, both current and past. I liked learning how their ‘rules’ came about from past events and experiences. I also really appreciated the honesty in the book - showing that marriages or relationships that appear ���perfect’ from the outside rarely are in reality, and it’s a good message to be reminded of in our social media world. I also loved the messaging around choosing to stay together and agreed with a lot of the ‘rules’, like being your partner’s ‘cheerleader’.
My only negative is that I felt that the book ended too quickly - I would have liked more exploration around how they really did get their relationship back on track. And I don’t know why, but I didn’t like the lead Jessica as much as I wanted to. I felt like she could never empathise with why Jack was feeling down about their life change, just that he should be ‘grateful’. Having said that, I really loved the writing, read it in a couple of days and wanted to get to the end to find out what happened.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my review (which is all my own).
My only negative is that I felt that the book ended too quickly - I would have liked more exploration around how they really did get their relationship back on track. And I don’t know why, but I didn’t like the lead Jessica as much as I wanted to. I felt like she could never empathise with why Jack was feeling down about their life change, just that he should be ‘grateful’. Having said that, I really loved the writing, read it in a couple of days and wanted to get to the end to find out what happened.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my review (which is all my own).
March 20, 2025
ARC read
𝙀𝙭𝙥 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚 3𝙧𝙙 𝙅𝙪𝙡𝙮 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly a massive thank you Bloomsbury publishing and Rebecca Reid for letting me read this ARC.
As I’m fairly newly married I would say this grabbed my attention because y’know it’s always good seeing books you may be able to really relate too and despite the fact that myself and my husband have been together less time than Jessica and Jack… myself and my husband were able to see quite a lot of ourselves in bits and quotes I discussed with him on so much of this it was brilliant 😂 the humour throughout this book was so relatable and well written. I was completely hooked from chapter one. Not your typical romance book but because of that I feel I enjoyed it more!
Jack and Jess’s story and life unfolding throughout this book was brilliant and I loved the fact that it was written in areas fairly close to where I live ‘Northampton’ actually being mentioned 🤭. The characters are flawed and messy in their own way but we’re all human right!!?? I was fully engrossed and routing for them the entire way through!
I highly recommend this to everyone!
July 2, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
Jack and Jessica have made a career out of their marriage on social media. Much to Jack's frustration. As their new book increases their fame more, they both explore how they ended up where they are and if it's still working, as a couple and as individuals.
This book supported my theory that the relationships you don't see that much of on social media are probably the happiest. Monetising/ exploiting happiness will never not be complex, because good moments are inevitably followed by less good moments. I like how the book explores other people's reactions to the couple and also how sharing some things publicly doesn't qualify access to everything. We see Jack and Jess' relationship in its infancy, we have chapters from both their perspectives so we know they're both worth rooting for, but some of their communication in the book made my toes curl. I don't think the resolution gave enough positive dialogue between them to counteract this fully for me. I did enjoy the exploration of relationships and why they're so tricky and personal to the people in them.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers to the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jack and Jessica have made a career out of their marriage on social media. Much to Jack's frustration. As their new book increases their fame more, they both explore how they ended up where they are and if it's still working, as a couple and as individuals.
This book supported my theory that the relationships you don't see that much of on social media are probably the happiest. Monetising/ exploiting happiness will never not be complex, because good moments are inevitably followed by less good moments. I like how the book explores other people's reactions to the couple and also how sharing some things publicly doesn't qualify access to everything. We see Jack and Jess' relationship in its infancy, we have chapters from both their perspectives so we know they're both worth rooting for, but some of their communication in the book made my toes curl. I don't think the resolution gave enough positive dialogue between them to counteract this fully for me. I did enjoy the exploration of relationships and why they're so tricky and personal to the people in them.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers to the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2025
On the outside, it looks like Jessica and Jack have the perfect relationship, but on the inside it couldn’t be more different.
After Jessica’s social media account takes off, they write a book about how to have the perfect marriage, but they soon realise their relationship isn’t so perfect after all and they both want different things. To save their marriage they decide to follow their own rules and find it’s more complicated than they thought!
This is not your typical fluffy romance book - there’s no sweet and swoony moments around every corner. It’s not a how-to-guide either but it is a very poignant ready that includes some challenging topics in a very refreshing and honest portrayal of the true challenges faced making a relationship work.
The message at the core of it, is that there’s no such thing as a perfect relationship but relationships do need work - they won’t nurture themselves!
There were funny moments of course and plenty of learning opportunities but I loved that both characters were eventually able to communicate in a healthy way.
Thankyou to bloomsbury Creator Circle for gifting me this proof copy.
After Jessica’s social media account takes off, they write a book about how to have the perfect marriage, but they soon realise their relationship isn’t so perfect after all and they both want different things. To save their marriage they decide to follow their own rules and find it’s more complicated than they thought!
This is not your typical fluffy romance book - there’s no sweet and swoony moments around every corner. It’s not a how-to-guide either but it is a very poignant ready that includes some challenging topics in a very refreshing and honest portrayal of the true challenges faced making a relationship work.
The message at the core of it, is that there’s no such thing as a perfect relationship but relationships do need work - they won’t nurture themselves!
There were funny moments of course and plenty of learning opportunities but I loved that both characters were eventually able to communicate in a healthy way.
Thankyou to bloomsbury Creator Circle for gifting me this proof copy.
July 6, 2025
To the outside it appears Jessica and Jack have it all and have just landed a book deal to share their rules for a perfect marriage. Behind the scenes it is not so straightforward and they find themselves finding fault in one another. In a bid to reboot their marriage they go back to basics and soon learn there’s more to making marriage work than the rules.
This sounded like a fun concept so I wanted to read and it ended up a quick, fun read with a unique spin on the usual romance novel. I enjoyed the influencer side to the story and the chapters set out following the rules made by the couple. I also enjoyed the flashbacks to their past together and found this interesting.
Even though I found this started strongly, my interest started to fade slightly as the book continued and at times I found the pacing slow. Overall though this was well written story with plenty of drama and moments to make you think. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
This sounded like a fun concept so I wanted to read and it ended up a quick, fun read with a unique spin on the usual romance novel. I enjoyed the influencer side to the story and the chapters set out following the rules made by the couple. I also enjoyed the flashbacks to their past together and found this interesting.
Even though I found this started strongly, my interest started to fade slightly as the book continued and at times I found the pacing slow. Overall though this was well written story with plenty of drama and moments to make you think. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
July 19, 2025
I gave this book a 3.5 stars!
The book discusses realistic and raw problems many married couples can face in their day to day lives which I adored reading. It felt like a different perspective on love with not your normal "I want to feel sparks with you" that you would read in a romance book, but rather "I want this to last with you." and how they can overcome their issues and differences.
Hitting the 80% reading mark, it felt a little rushed. Like I could not enjoy my time to finally see their problems resolved and their "Not-So-Perfect-Happily-Ever-After" bloom.
Overall, this book was a fun read, and I loved the change of atmosphere with reading about already-wed couples and making it last, rather then starting a new beginning. The characters were well-developed and had their own unique traits and flaws that I loved to read about. The writing-style is one that I would definitely gravitate to read again.
The book discusses realistic and raw problems many married couples can face in their day to day lives which I adored reading. It felt like a different perspective on love with not your normal "I want to feel sparks with you" that you would read in a romance book, but rather "I want this to last with you." and how they can overcome their issues and differences.
Hitting the 80% reading mark, it felt a little rushed. Like I could not enjoy my time to finally see their problems resolved and their "Not-So-Perfect-Happily-Ever-After" bloom.
Overall, this book was a fun read, and I loved the change of atmosphere with reading about already-wed couples and making it last, rather then starting a new beginning. The characters were well-developed and had their own unique traits and flaws that I loved to read about. The writing-style is one that I would definitely gravitate to read again.
June 26, 2025
This is an emotional read about navigating life's hurdles while in a long-term relationship - and about what happens when the rules you live by may not be working anymore.
Jack and Jessica are the social media couple of the moment, with the followers and a self-help book to prove it. But a long book tour is taking its toll, on Jack because he'd rather be anywhere else (but particularly in his old career), and on Jessica, who is really struggling with infertility.
It's a hard read in some ways because the difficult relationship bits feel true and authentic. The pain is real. That can make it a challenge. It's not a romance that's new or light and sweet. They've got tonnes of baggage, and issues that can't be easily resolved.
And then they agree to take part in the seven rules retreat that they're running. They were supposed to event manage it - not be participants!
It's a bittersweet romance and at times I became frustrated with Jess, who didn't seem to think much about her husband's feelings, just because he ought to be grateful for the money they were making. But I suspect that was the intention.
I enjoyed the journey with this couple - but it wasn't fun every step of the way! And that's okay, that's life reflected back at us, as with all good reads. But it may be harder for some readers than others, depending on how close they are to the topics being explored.
Jack and Jessica are the social media couple of the moment, with the followers and a self-help book to prove it. But a long book tour is taking its toll, on Jack because he'd rather be anywhere else (but particularly in his old career), and on Jessica, who is really struggling with infertility.
It's a hard read in some ways because the difficult relationship bits feel true and authentic. The pain is real. That can make it a challenge. It's not a romance that's new or light and sweet. They've got tonnes of baggage, and issues that can't be easily resolved.
And then they agree to take part in the seven rules retreat that they're running. They were supposed to event manage it - not be participants!
It's a bittersweet romance and at times I became frustrated with Jess, who didn't seem to think much about her husband's feelings, just because he ought to be grateful for the money they were making. But I suspect that was the intention.
I enjoyed the journey with this couple - but it wasn't fun every step of the way! And that's okay, that's life reflected back at us, as with all good reads. But it may be harder for some readers than others, depending on how close they are to the topics being explored.
July 1, 2025
Jessica and Jack are an influencer couple, known for their ‘Seven Rules for a Perfect Marriage’.
But behind closed doors, Jack longs for his previous life as a writer, and Jessica feels like she’s holding it all together by herself while she longs for a baby.
They decide to join in with the couple’s retreat that they had planned as the finale to their book tour where they put the rules into practice.
I enjoyed the premise that they would join in with the activities but thought it rather naïve that they could get away with being honest whilst maintaining the pretence of a perfect marriage.
The main characters got on my nerves a little and I didn’t really warm to them but I was still really invested in the story and how everything worked out for them.
But behind closed doors, Jack longs for his previous life as a writer, and Jessica feels like she’s holding it all together by herself while she longs for a baby.
They decide to join in with the couple’s retreat that they had planned as the finale to their book tour where they put the rules into practice.
I enjoyed the premise that they would join in with the activities but thought it rather naïve that they could get away with being honest whilst maintaining the pretence of a perfect marriage.
The main characters got on my nerves a little and I didn’t really warm to them but I was still really invested in the story and how everything worked out for them.
July 29, 2025
𝐒𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐑𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐞
𝐛𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐜𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐢𝐝 ⋆˙⟡♡
Out July 31st 💍✨️
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭
💜 Contemporary Fiction
💍 Couples Retreat
💜 Marriage Struggles
💍 Social Media vs. Reality
💜 Second Chance
⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
3⭐️
𝐏𝐑 | 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 Huge thank you to @bloomsburypublishing & @rebeccacnreid for sending me out a copy to review ✨️
This is an honest, emotional look at what happens when the idea of a “perfect” marriage starts to fall apart. Jack and Jessica have built their brand on relationship advice, but behind the scenes, they’re exhausted, disconnected, and carrying more pain than they’re letting on.
I really liked the setup, a couples' retreat that they’re supposed to be running, but end up participating in instead. It forces them to confront everything they’ve been avoiding. The relationship struggles felt painfully real at times. Not always easy to read, but that’s what made it feel so genuine.
It’s not a light or sweet romance, but it’s thoughtful and layered. A bittersweet read about what happens after the fairy tale, and whether love can still survive once the filters are off. If you like flawed characters, emotional depth, and stories that dig into the messiness of real relationships, this is one to add to your TBR.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆
𝐛𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐜𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐢𝐝 ⋆˙⟡♡
Out July 31st 💍✨️
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭
💜 Contemporary Fiction
💍 Couples Retreat
💜 Marriage Struggles
💍 Social Media vs. Reality
💜 Second Chance
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𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
3⭐️
𝐏𝐑 | 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 Huge thank you to @bloomsburypublishing & @rebeccacnreid for sending me out a copy to review ✨️
This is an honest, emotional look at what happens when the idea of a “perfect” marriage starts to fall apart. Jack and Jessica have built their brand on relationship advice, but behind the scenes, they’re exhausted, disconnected, and carrying more pain than they’re letting on.
I really liked the setup, a couples' retreat that they’re supposed to be running, but end up participating in instead. It forces them to confront everything they’ve been avoiding. The relationship struggles felt painfully real at times. Not always easy to read, but that’s what made it feel so genuine.
It’s not a light or sweet romance, but it’s thoughtful and layered. A bittersweet read about what happens after the fairy tale, and whether love can still survive once the filters are off. If you like flawed characters, emotional depth, and stories that dig into the messiness of real relationships, this is one to add to your TBR.
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July 27, 2025
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one was a surprisingly good mix of humor, heart, and real talk about what makes marriage actually work (or not). It’s not your typical romance or self-here like that friend who’s brutally honest but still has your back.
The characters feel genuine, messy in all the right ways, and the story dives into some tough stuff without getting too heavy. I loved how it balanced the funny with the serious like laughing through the chaos of love and commitment.
My only tiny nitpick is that a couple of the “rules” felt a bit predictable, but honestly, sometimes you need those familiar truths served with a fresh twist.
If you’re looking for something that makes you think but also gives you warm fuzzies and a few good laughs, this book’s worth your time
❤️shaye.readss
This one was a surprisingly good mix of humor, heart, and real talk about what makes marriage actually work (or not). It’s not your typical romance or self-here like that friend who’s brutally honest but still has your back.
The characters feel genuine, messy in all the right ways, and the story dives into some tough stuff without getting too heavy. I loved how it balanced the funny with the serious like laughing through the chaos of love and commitment.
My only tiny nitpick is that a couple of the “rules” felt a bit predictable, but honestly, sometimes you need those familiar truths served with a fresh twist.
If you’re looking for something that makes you think but also gives you warm fuzzies and a few good laughs, this book’s worth your time
❤️shaye.readss
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2025
Seven rules for a perfect marriage
Firstly, such a great title for a book ! Jack and Jessica have become social media darlings, creating a hit profile showcasing their relationship and telling others how they achieve their happiness, the seven rules.
But nothing is as perfect as it seems, and both of them are hiding some uncomfortable home truths and buried resentment all the while having to present a perfect front to the world.
When Jessica Jack find themselves taking part in a couples retreat rather than simply hosting it, they have to face some hidden truths that would otherwise threaten the marriage.
It’s a lovely read, with some tender moments as well as some great relationship advice!
Firstly, such a great title for a book ! Jack and Jessica have become social media darlings, creating a hit profile showcasing their relationship and telling others how they achieve their happiness, the seven rules.
But nothing is as perfect as it seems, and both of them are hiding some uncomfortable home truths and buried resentment all the while having to present a perfect front to the world.
When Jessica Jack find themselves taking part in a couples retreat rather than simply hosting it, they have to face some hidden truths that would otherwise threaten the marriage.
It’s a lovely read, with some tender moments as well as some great relationship advice!
December 27, 2025
my favorite type of book is when a couple goes through real world issues and has struggles because life is hard. i love seeing things get worse before they get better and the couple refusing to give up. there is something so beautiful about these types of books and each one i read gives me better hope for the future.
this book was that type of book. i would say in order for it to get the perfect 5 star it needed a bit more to the ending but even still this book was well written and a creative idea. there were parts when both characters pissed me off and both made me happy. the connection to social media and how it affects people is so real in todays world and there is nothing better than seeing it reflected in a well made book.
this book was that type of book. i would say in order for it to get the perfect 5 star it needed a bit more to the ending but even still this book was well written and a creative idea. there were parts when both characters pissed me off and both made me happy. the connection to social media and how it affects people is so real in todays world and there is nothing better than seeing it reflected in a well made book.
July 13, 2025
An enjoyable light read.
Jessica and Jack have it all - in love, a successful media presence and an instant bestseller - all based on the seven rules for a perfect marriage. A marriage which was good before becoming an instagram success - their success has caused them to question themselves, each other and what they want for their future.
A retreat with a number of other couples allows them the opportunity to reboot their marriage. They seem to be moving forward when an unlicensed conversation with another participant threatens to implode their marriage.
A fun look at what makes a marriage work and how that needs to change over time.
One to be recommended.
Jessica and Jack have it all - in love, a successful media presence and an instant bestseller - all based on the seven rules for a perfect marriage. A marriage which was good before becoming an instagram success - their success has caused them to question themselves, each other and what they want for their future.
A retreat with a number of other couples allows them the opportunity to reboot their marriage. They seem to be moving forward when an unlicensed conversation with another participant threatens to implode their marriage.
A fun look at what makes a marriage work and how that needs to change over time.
One to be recommended.
October 12, 2025
I'm docking a full star for the misuse of "breath" instead of breathe. Sue me.
Listen, there was nothing fundamentally wrong with this book. The characters were real, the story was believable, their reactions were, if not justified, at least understandable. For some reason, this made for a very boring read; overly predictable, dragging, and sometimes infuriating. Jack sure got on my nerves a lot. They were scared to communicate and that just made the book last like what felt like forever. As I said: believable, but it makes for very boring literature.
Wasn't bad, wasn't good. Frankly, I'll have forgotten all about this by tomorrow.
Listen, there was nothing fundamentally wrong with this book. The characters were real, the story was believable, their reactions were, if not justified, at least understandable. For some reason, this made for a very boring read; overly predictable, dragging, and sometimes infuriating. Jack sure got on my nerves a lot. They were scared to communicate and that just made the book last like what felt like forever. As I said: believable, but it makes for very boring literature.
Wasn't bad, wasn't good. Frankly, I'll have forgotten all about this by tomorrow.
February 13, 2025
rounding up to 3.5
two married influencers release a self help book - the only issue is their marriage is in complete shambles.
as the story progresses through the couples marital journey it touches on very relatable and touching topics such as infertility and abortions.
i enjoyed how the story focuses on the prospect of the main characters fixing their marriage.
overall this a quick enjoyable story where we watch a couple progress through their journey of their marriage.
thankyou so much for the arc net galley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc. all opinions are my own <3
two married influencers release a self help book - the only issue is their marriage is in complete shambles.
as the story progresses through the couples marital journey it touches on very relatable and touching topics such as infertility and abortions.
i enjoyed how the story focuses on the prospect of the main characters fixing their marriage.
overall this a quick enjoyable story where we watch a couple progress through their journey of their marriage.
thankyou so much for the arc net galley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc. all opinions are my own <3
September 26, 2025
It looks like Jessica and Jake have it all, their social media accounts show them glamours, happy and sickengly in love. They have even landed a book deal to share their seven rules for a perfect marriage, an instant bestseller of course.
This was an Interesting read, but it all felt a bit formulatic and a bit of a struggle. It was just to much drama with characters Jessica and Jake. The book had so much potential but didn't quite land it for me, and the momentum was a bit slow at certain points, it felt like I wS crawling through the plot.
This was an Interesting read, but it all felt a bit formulatic and a bit of a struggle. It was just to much drama with characters Jessica and Jake. The book had so much potential but didn't quite land it for me, and the momentum was a bit slow at certain points, it felt like I wS crawling through the plot.
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