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The Re-Write: A Novel
In this lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers rom-com, two exes are faced with one deadline. Will they make it to the end?
Temi and Wale meet in London. They flirt, date, meet each other's friends.
Then they break up. And Wale goes on a reality dating show.
Instead of giving in to heartbreak, Temi throws herself into her writing. She's within touching distance of a book deal that would solve all her problems. But publishers keep passing on her novel and bills still have to be paid. So, when the opportunity to ghost-write a celebrity memoir arises, Temi accepts.
And, of course, the celebrity turns out to be Wale...
Will Temi and Wale repeat the patterns of their past? Or can they write a whole new story?
Temi and Wale meet in London. They flirt, date, meet each other's friends.
Then they break up. And Wale goes on a reality dating show.
Instead of giving in to heartbreak, Temi throws herself into her writing. She's within touching distance of a book deal that would solve all her problems. But publishers keep passing on her novel and bills still have to be paid. So, when the opportunity to ghost-write a celebrity memoir arises, Temi accepts.
And, of course, the celebrity turns out to be Wale...
Will Temi and Wale repeat the patterns of their past? Or can they write a whole new story?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2025
113 people are currently reading
15055 people want to read
About the author
Lizzie Damilola Blackburn
2 books609 followersLizzie Damilola Blackburn is a British-Nigerian writer, born in Peckham, who wants to tell the stories that she and her friends have longed for but never seen – romcoms 'where Cinderella is Black and no-one bats an eyelid'. In 2019 she won the Literary Consultancy Pen Factor Writing Competition with the early draft of Yinka, Where is your Huzband?, which she had been writing alongside juggling her job at Carers UK. She has been at the receiving end of the question in the title of her novel many times, and now lives with her husband in Milton Keynes.
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March 20, 2025Second book from British Nigerian author, with a romance novelist heroine. I seem to have read quite a lot of romances about romance novelists recently. This one is more plausible than many, in that some of them make you wonder how nobody in the publishing house has ever experienced the process of publishing, whereas this one gave me a cold sweat with her repeated failure to meet word count, and I liked the depiction of her work as a ghostwriter.
Fairly tropey plot. Temi is a somewhat insecure woman trying to make it as a writer and worried about disappointing her parents. Wale, her ex, is a charity worker turned reality TV star with fuckboy reputation. She takes a job ghosting his memoirs (matey is mid twenties and appeared on one season of a reality show, so I am profoundly depressed that the part about someone publishing his memoir isn't unrealistic) and they rekindle their romance, but at the same time Temi must come up with a new novel for the agent she's been lying to. Unfortunately, all she has is the angry revenge novel she wrote about Wale.
It's a classic sort of set up and nothing terribly unexpected happens, but there's nothing wrong with a well-executed trope, and these are deployed with skill. Temi kind of needs a shake and a much thicker skin but she remains likeable, Wale is a charmer with a lot of vulnerabilities, and they are definitely good for one another. The Nigerian-British background comes across well and strongly, and overall, it's a lively, enjoyable read.
I will note the heroine is meant to be plus size, and the cover is cartoon, so it's not like Penguin couldn't have done it but here we are.
Fairly tropey plot. Temi is a somewhat insecure woman trying to make it as a writer and worried about disappointing her parents. Wale, her ex, is a charity worker turned reality TV star with fuckboy reputation. She takes a job ghosting his memoirs (matey is mid twenties and appeared on one season of a reality show, so I am profoundly depressed that the part about someone publishing his memoir isn't unrealistic) and they rekindle their romance, but at the same time Temi must come up with a new novel for the agent she's been lying to. Unfortunately, all she has is the angry revenge novel she wrote about Wale.
It's a classic sort of set up and nothing terribly unexpected happens, but there's nothing wrong with a well-executed trope, and these are deployed with skill. Temi kind of needs a shake and a much thicker skin but she remains likeable, Wale is a charmer with a lot of vulnerabilities, and they are definitely good for one another. The Nigerian-British background comes across well and strongly, and overall, it's a lively, enjoyable read.
I will note the heroine is meant to be plus size, and the cover is cartoon, so it's not like Penguin couldn't have done it but here we are.
February 14, 2025
Lizzie Damilola Blackburn has woven a dazzlingly fun yet heartfelt second-chance romance about a ghostwriter hired to save her ex’s negative reputation after a reality dating show disaster. 🧡💜
[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
Going with Wale’s favourite line, “Let me tell you a story” (this would have made a perfect alternative name for this book):
Temiloluwa “Temi” Ojo is an aspiring author who hopes one day to have her book Wildest Dreams published. She was a ghostwriter for a while, but now works at a call centre. She dated 25-year-old Adewale “Wale” Bandele, a fundraising officer for ACE, a charity to help unpaid carers. After being together for 6 months, they ended things on a sour note, and Wale became a star for the 6th season of The Villa, a Love Island-inspired reality TV show.
Two months later, in August, Temi quits her job at the call centre. Her agent Mayee wants to see her draft of Love Drive, a book Temi is supposed to have been working on for months but has barely started. Mayee tells her an agent is looking for a ghostwriter to write a coming-of-age memoir for a celebrity. Temi accepts – only to find the celebrity is none other than Wale himself. He has earned a bad reputation from The Villa, dubbed a heartbreaker and f-boy by the public, and wants to tell his side of the story.
Ghostwriting for an ex-boyfriend, keeping things professional, trying not to delve into the past, racing against two deadlines (book and memoir). What could possibly go wrong? Short answer: everything.
As they spend time together, Temi wonders if she really knew Wale that well when they dated. And the more she learns, the more she likes. But tension grows between them. And Temi holds a horrible secret: a novel born out of revenge, that could have serious consequences should it ever get out.
OVERALL OPINIONS
This is Blackburn’s second novel, one she thought she would never reach the end. I’m glad she did though haha because this is really something marvelous! She has a way of writing that, despite most of the plot’s predictability, I was still compelled to know how this story ended and raced through to the end.
ㅤ the writing
Through the novel’s occasional use of dual timeline, the make and break of Temi and Wale’s relationship is explored and things are revealed as we go. This is so cleverly done as we the reader, like Temi, assume the worst of Wale and then as everything progresses, we learn more about Wale at the same time as Temi get a better picture of what he is like as a person and why he acted the way he did to her.
What I especially adore is that the format of the text in the book changes according to the situation. These include:
• Wale’s interview at the start looks like a Q&A article online (with the questions highlighted in bold)
• Some chapters start with a typewriter-like font that indicate how long Temi has to go with her drafts, with the document’s names (Love Drive_Draft1.doc and Wale_Memoir_Draft1.doc), the target word count and actual word count.
• Text is put into message bubbles to indicate text messages between characters like you would on your phone.
• Capslock for headlines from social media, and a section for social media (Instagram) comments with emojis and usernames in bold text.
• Sender and Subject with message to indicate an email layout.
• A handwriting-like font when Temi reads one of Wale’s journal entries.
While the text messaging format in particular is quite common in books these days, I haven’t seen all of these used in the one book before and I thought this was done so, so well!
She has some great descriptions here. For example: “As though we’re in court we stare at each other.” – this perfectly captures the tension between Temi and Wale as the courtroom is a very serious place and it is a professional place, and reminds them to keep their distance.
ㅤ culture/representation
The African/Caribbean culture, and general representation, in here is fantastic! Our main characters are British-Nigerian (like Blackburn herself). Temi is a plus-size main character, and we get to know her struggles and insecurity through racism and fatphobia she particularly endured in school, though she embraces it by the end of the novel.
There are some cultural references such as the food dishes the characters had and the name of the bookstore. Anansi Books is named after Anansi the Spider, a character from African folklore often a loveable and mischievous trickster able to outwit his foes.
There are some stigmas and stereotypes explored. Men, but especially black men, have this expectation/view that being emotional is a sign of weakness. This is explored through Wale and his tense relationship with his father:
Another expectation Wale has been brought up with is that being a man should mean you are a provider – which is not the case! Because of this, he feels like he was not able to treat Temi the way he should which also caused a strain on their relationship though Temi didn’t know it: ‘I used to imagine what I’d do for you if I could actually treat you the way you deserved.’. Now he has money, he is very willing to splash out and buy her things which is lovely but it’s nice that Temi shows him that she is happy with modest things. His surprise for her (doing the place up to look like the Morocco trip that she missed) is a gift more from his heart which is far more priceless.
I was actually very pleased to find Kelechi (the girl Wale was mostly coupled with on The Villa) is so lovely and supportive of them both. It really made a change from the cliché narrative of a mean girl who wants her man back.
ㅤ humour but heart
While there were some funny moments, there were also a lot darker elements. Blackburn does not shy away from all the difficult topics that can be found in here including racial discrimination, sexual assault and harassment, recovering alcoholics and unpaid carers . She handles all of this with the utmost care and respect, covered briefly but with enough of an impact to the storytelling. I was deeply moved by it all! The latter point about unpaid carers is something I don’t think I’ve encountered in a novel before and Blackburn dedicates this to them: “the unsung heroes” – as someone who is one, I did indeed feel seen and I think others will too.
Insecurity is shown and I like that it is handled differently for each person. Temi for example has a pair of glasses for everything, to distract people from the rest of her – because she would rather be known as the “glasses” girl than the “fat” girl. She ultimately doesn’t let it drag her down, but this unfairness is looked at:
Wale’s toxic friend Kojo, who has trained Wale at the gym, becomes insecure because everyone seems so interested in Wale – but the difference is through this insecurity he turns bitter and goes around harassing women or forcing himself on them. Shona, due to a previous relationship, has become insecure and distrustful of men though eventually opens up with sweet Fonzo.
Temi doesn’t want to be seen as a failure or disappointment to her parents so she pretends all is well with her work, and I am glad her conversation with her parents, knowing how much they failed doing things too, helped her.
ㅤ to conclude
Overall, I would give this 4.5 stars.
<< Positives >>
🠚Lovely cover, reflects the African culture with its big and bold colours.
🠚Excellent variety of humour and more serious elements.
🠚Plenty of cultural and general representation in this book.
🠚Perfect changes of layout with appropriate section (texts, social media comments)
<< Negatives >>
🠚There wasn’t as much tension here as I’d have liked. She goes very quickly from shutting him out to letting him in, and I thought this should have been done more gradually.
🠚The chapters were extremely short.
🠚I would have loved more spice too, but that’s a personal preference.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Temi꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ She did annoy me unfortunately – all she had to do was be more honest! – but I know the plot had to be done.
🠚I love how empathetic she is, always being there for others despite her deadlines looming over her and helping them see the best in themselves.
-ˋˏ ꒰ Wale꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ “You’d think Wale with all his muscles and tattoos was the protective one. It’s true. You really can’t trust a book by its cover” – agreed, some people get tattoos to look tougher and for Wale this is definitely meant to be the case. I like that.
🠚Blackburn did an excellent job with making me hate this man to my guts to really adoring him. He is such a good man – what Wale has done for his family, the charity, it’s all so heartwarming to see. And all the things he does for Temi? Aww!
-ˋˏ ꒰ Other characters꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ Shona is the best, an amazing friend with the best advice – “make sure you’re choosing yourself first”. It’s nice that despite trust issues, she opens her heart up again and gets with Fonzo. He was sweet, I immediately liked him.
FAV QUOTES
• He goes to hold my hand and then stops himself, his eyes and expression an apology letter.
• I was ready to have this conversation before we broke up. Before he made a decision about *our* relationship for me.
• The way he looked at me when he said ‘People assume that I’m scared to love,’ made me feel as if I was being cut open. exposed. I wish I had broken eye contact sooner. I wish I never held it in the first place. I also wish he was less attractive than he is. He is frustratingly distracting.
• I remember we used to speak on the phone every night. We would talk until the sun came up, mainly about randomish and hypothetical scenarios... I miss that. I miss us.
• Weirdly, writing about your ex is kind of fun.
• ‘Listen, as long as you’re writing, you’re a writer. And nothing, and I mean *nothing*, can ever take that away from you, yeah? I meant what I said the other day – you’re fucking talented, Tems. I chose you as my ghostwriter ’cause I believe in you. But whatever you do, please *please* don’t ever stop believing in yourself.’
• the more I learn about Wale, the more I realize that things with him are not black and white.
• ‘One sec,’ he says. ‘I forgot something.’ He pats down his pockets. And then he gives me a quick peck followed by the cheekiest grin known to man.
• He looked out for me this morning. He didn’t have to. He didn’t have to come by with brunch, make me pancakes. And he certainly didn’t have to buy me a new laptop. But he did. Because he cares.
• He wraps his strong arms around me, his mouth muffled in my hair. His body is warm and comforting like a snug winter jacket. I feel protected. Safe.
• This story lacks one main thing: heart. While Wildest Dreams was born out of love and The Ultimate Payback was born out of hate, Love Drive was born out of fear.
• ‘You’ve fallen for him, haven’t you?’ I stare at her with emotion, and then, slowly, I nod. I don’t know exactly when it happened – I’ve been in denial for quite some time – but now there’s the possibility that I could lose Wale for good, I know I have. I believe he has too. Although he hasn’t said it, I can tell through his actions; the way he looks at me. Whatever happens, this book cannot stand in the way of our second chance.
• Maybe I was in love with the idea of being in love. And who can blame me? How often does one meet the man of their dreams in person and have an instant connection with them so electrifying you can’t imagine life before they were in it?
• My feelings for him then were loud. Like a swarm of bees that never stopped buzzing. But my feelings now are different. They’re quiet. Deep. Growing in depth and intensity the more layers he peels back and the more I discover about him. He feels something too – I can sense it – but he’s following my lead, gauging each interaction, being patient, playing chess.
• I had failed to cross the finishing line. But this time, things will be different. I *will* finish what I’ve started. I *will* make the deadline. This time, I, Temiloluwa Ojo, will win.
• He’s…smiling. Though I’m not sure if he’s smiling at me – he was already smiling before he looked at me. But then he offers me a slow, steady nod that makes my heart feel like it has springs. I have a chance. *We* have a chance.
• ‘It hurt ’cause I care about you.’ His words feel like a hug and a stab at the same time.
• ‘my heart was still with you.’ So, Wale *was* in love with me this entire time.
• But something about this moment is uniquely special. Perhaps because we’re both different people. We communicate better. We’re open. Honest. We also understand each other a lot more. We know each other’s fears, triggers and insecurities. And what we desire from each other at this present moment.
• Honestly, I couldn’t have written this story if I tried.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Lizzie Damilola Blackburn, Penguin for the opportunity. A huge thank you to the Penguin General Influencer program for providing me with a paperback copy. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
This is the Wale I fell in love with. This man right here. The Wale who was always a shoulder to cry on whenever I got a rejection email. The Wale who encouraged me when I couldn’t motivate myself. The Wale who affirmed me. The Wale who was the type of prince who would hand me his own sword to help me slay my dragons. The Wale who saw me. Who trusted me.
[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
Going with Wale’s favourite line, “Let me tell you a story” (this would have made a perfect alternative name for this book):
Temiloluwa “Temi” Ojo is an aspiring author who hopes one day to have her book Wildest Dreams published. She was a ghostwriter for a while, but now works at a call centre. She dated 25-year-old Adewale “Wale” Bandele, a fundraising officer for ACE, a charity to help unpaid carers. After being together for 6 months, they ended things on a sour note, and Wale became a star for the 6th season of The Villa, a Love Island-inspired reality TV show.
Two months later, in August, Temi quits her job at the call centre. Her agent Mayee wants to see her draft of Love Drive, a book Temi is supposed to have been working on for months but has barely started. Mayee tells her an agent is looking for a ghostwriter to write a coming-of-age memoir for a celebrity. Temi accepts – only to find the celebrity is none other than Wale himself. He has earned a bad reputation from The Villa, dubbed a heartbreaker and f-boy by the public, and wants to tell his side of the story.
Ghostwriting for an ex-boyfriend, keeping things professional, trying not to delve into the past, racing against two deadlines (book and memoir). What could possibly go wrong? Short answer: everything.
As they spend time together, Temi wonders if she really knew Wale that well when they dated. And the more she learns, the more she likes. But tension grows between them. And Temi holds a horrible secret: a novel born out of revenge, that could have serious consequences should it ever get out.
Before I realize what I’m doing, I wrap my arms around his waist and rest my head on his chest, just below his neck. Wale sinks his cotton-soft chin into my hair, and I feel him physically relax. Our hug is a silent exchange. *Thank you*: he squeezes me tight. *I’ve got you*: I give him one back.This is told from the first-person present-tense POV of Temi.
OVERALL OPINIONS
This is Blackburn’s second novel, one she thought she would never reach the end. I’m glad she did though haha because this is really something marvelous! She has a way of writing that, despite most of the plot’s predictability, I was still compelled to know how this story ended and raced through to the end.
ㅤ the writing
Through the novel’s occasional use of dual timeline, the make and break of Temi and Wale’s relationship is explored and things are revealed as we go. This is so cleverly done as we the reader, like Temi, assume the worst of Wale and then as everything progresses, we learn more about Wale at the same time as Temi get a better picture of what he is like as a person and why he acted the way he did to her.
What I especially adore is that the format of the text in the book changes according to the situation. These include:
• Wale’s interview at the start looks like a Q&A article online (with the questions highlighted in bold)
• Some chapters start with a typewriter-like font that indicate how long Temi has to go with her drafts, with the document’s names (Love Drive_Draft1.doc and Wale_Memoir_Draft1.doc), the target word count and actual word count.
• Text is put into message bubbles to indicate text messages between characters like you would on your phone.
• Capslock for headlines from social media, and a section for social media (Instagram) comments with emojis and usernames in bold text.
• Sender and Subject with message to indicate an email layout.
• A handwriting-like font when Temi reads one of Wale’s journal entries.
While the text messaging format in particular is quite common in books these days, I haven’t seen all of these used in the one book before and I thought this was done so, so well!
She has some great descriptions here. For example: “As though we’re in court we stare at each other.” – this perfectly captures the tension between Temi and Wale as the courtroom is a very serious place and it is a professional place, and reminds them to keep their distance.
ㅤ culture/representation
The African/Caribbean culture, and general representation, in here is fantastic! Our main characters are British-Nigerian (like Blackburn herself). Temi is a plus-size main character, and we get to know her struggles and insecurity through racism and fatphobia she particularly endured in school, though she embraces it by the end of the novel.
There are some cultural references such as the food dishes the characters had and the name of the bookstore. Anansi Books is named after Anansi the Spider, a character from African folklore often a loveable and mischievous trickster able to outwit his foes.
There are some stigmas and stereotypes explored. Men, but especially black men, have this expectation/view that being emotional is a sign of weakness. This is explored through Wale and his tense relationship with his father:
‘My dad – he’s one of those strong African men who shows no emotion. I frustrated him ’cause I was sensitive and cried all the time.’I am glad that Wale learns that it’s okay to let emotions out and not supress them, and handles things like a real man ought to – and this cannot be emphasised enough. He tries not to have his friend Kojo cause a scene and tries not to rise to his bait because it would fuel the idea that black men are violent/cause trouble.
Another expectation Wale has been brought up with is that being a man should mean you are a provider – which is not the case! Because of this, he feels like he was not able to treat Temi the way he should which also caused a strain on their relationship though Temi didn’t know it: ‘I used to imagine what I’d do for you if I could actually treat you the way you deserved.’. Now he has money, he is very willing to splash out and buy her things which is lovely but it’s nice that Temi shows him that she is happy with modest things. His surprise for her (doing the place up to look like the Morocco trip that she missed) is a gift more from his heart which is far more priceless.
I was actually very pleased to find Kelechi (the girl Wale was mostly coupled with on The Villa) is so lovely and supportive of them both. It really made a change from the cliché narrative of a mean girl who wants her man back.
ㅤ humour but heart
While there were some funny moments, there were also a lot darker elements. Blackburn does not shy away from all the difficult topics that can be found in here including racial discrimination, sexual assault and harassment, recovering alcoholics and unpaid carers . She handles all of this with the utmost care and respect, covered briefly but with enough of an impact to the storytelling. I was deeply moved by it all! The latter point about unpaid carers is something I don’t think I’ve encountered in a novel before and Blackburn dedicates this to them: “the unsung heroes” – as someone who is one, I did indeed feel seen and I think others will too.
Insecurity is shown and I like that it is handled differently for each person. Temi for example has a pair of glasses for everything, to distract people from the rest of her – because she would rather be known as the “glasses” girl than the “fat” girl. She ultimately doesn’t let it drag her down, but this unfairness is looked at:
Why does being ‘fat’ need to be something derogative? It is not a descriptor like the word ‘thin’ or ‘tall’ or ‘pale’? Sadly, not everyone thinks this way. For some, if you’re overweight, you’re by default unworthy, less than.
Wale’s toxic friend Kojo, who has trained Wale at the gym, becomes insecure because everyone seems so interested in Wale – but the difference is through this insecurity he turns bitter and goes around harassing women or forcing himself on them. Shona, due to a previous relationship, has become insecure and distrustful of men though eventually opens up with sweet Fonzo.
Temi doesn’t want to be seen as a failure or disappointment to her parents so she pretends all is well with her work, and I am glad her conversation with her parents, knowing how much they failed doing things too, helped her.
ㅤ to conclude
Overall, I would give this 4.5 stars.
<< Positives >>
🠚Lovely cover, reflects the African culture with its big and bold colours.
🠚Excellent variety of humour and more serious elements.
🠚Plenty of cultural and general representation in this book.
🠚Perfect changes of layout with appropriate section (texts, social media comments)
<< Negatives >>
🠚There wasn’t as much tension here as I’d have liked. She goes very quickly from shutting him out to letting him in, and I thought this should have been done more gradually.
🠚The chapters were extremely short.
🠚I would have loved more spice too, but that’s a personal preference.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Temi꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ She did annoy me unfortunately – all she had to do was be more honest! – but I know the plot had to be done.
🠚I love how empathetic she is, always being there for others despite her deadlines looming over her and helping them see the best in themselves.
I only get one chance to be a debut, so if I’m going to publish a book, I want it to be something that I’m passionate about, not a hastily written treatise about my ex. The Ultimate Payback was born out of anger. I want to spread love through my writing.
-ˋˏ ꒰ Wale꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ “You’d think Wale with all his muscles and tattoos was the protective one. It’s true. You really can’t trust a book by its cover” – agreed, some people get tattoos to look tougher and for Wale this is definitely meant to be the case. I like that.
🠚Blackburn did an excellent job with making me hate this man to my guts to really adoring him. He is such a good man – what Wale has done for his family, the charity, it’s all so heartwarming to see. And all the things he does for Temi? Aww!
‘Remember a few weeks ago when we sat here?…When I looked you in the face and said people assume that I’m too scared to love? Well I’m telling you now, I’m not. I was just hesitant to say it. But not any more. I love you, Temi. I always have.’
-ˋˏ ꒰ Other characters꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ Shona is the best, an amazing friend with the best advice – “make sure you’re choosing yourself first”. It’s nice that despite trust issues, she opens her heart up again and gets with Fonzo. He was sweet, I immediately liked him.
FAV QUOTES
• He goes to hold my hand and then stops himself, his eyes and expression an apology letter.
• I was ready to have this conversation before we broke up. Before he made a decision about *our* relationship for me.
• The way he looked at me when he said ‘People assume that I’m scared to love,’ made me feel as if I was being cut open. exposed. I wish I had broken eye contact sooner. I wish I never held it in the first place. I also wish he was less attractive than he is. He is frustratingly distracting.
• I remember we used to speak on the phone every night. We would talk until the sun came up, mainly about randomish and hypothetical scenarios... I miss that. I miss us.
• Weirdly, writing about your ex is kind of fun.
• ‘Listen, as long as you’re writing, you’re a writer. And nothing, and I mean *nothing*, can ever take that away from you, yeah? I meant what I said the other day – you’re fucking talented, Tems. I chose you as my ghostwriter ’cause I believe in you. But whatever you do, please *please* don’t ever stop believing in yourself.’
• the more I learn about Wale, the more I realize that things with him are not black and white.
• ‘One sec,’ he says. ‘I forgot something.’ He pats down his pockets. And then he gives me a quick peck followed by the cheekiest grin known to man.
• He looked out for me this morning. He didn’t have to. He didn’t have to come by with brunch, make me pancakes. And he certainly didn’t have to buy me a new laptop. But he did. Because he cares.
• He wraps his strong arms around me, his mouth muffled in my hair. His body is warm and comforting like a snug winter jacket. I feel protected. Safe.
• This story lacks one main thing: heart. While Wildest Dreams was born out of love and The Ultimate Payback was born out of hate, Love Drive was born out of fear.
• ‘You’ve fallen for him, haven’t you?’ I stare at her with emotion, and then, slowly, I nod. I don’t know exactly when it happened – I’ve been in denial for quite some time – but now there’s the possibility that I could lose Wale for good, I know I have. I believe he has too. Although he hasn’t said it, I can tell through his actions; the way he looks at me. Whatever happens, this book cannot stand in the way of our second chance.
• Maybe I was in love with the idea of being in love. And who can blame me? How often does one meet the man of their dreams in person and have an instant connection with them so electrifying you can’t imagine life before they were in it?
• My feelings for him then were loud. Like a swarm of bees that never stopped buzzing. But my feelings now are different. They’re quiet. Deep. Growing in depth and intensity the more layers he peels back and the more I discover about him. He feels something too – I can sense it – but he’s following my lead, gauging each interaction, being patient, playing chess.
• I had failed to cross the finishing line. But this time, things will be different. I *will* finish what I’ve started. I *will* make the deadline. This time, I, Temiloluwa Ojo, will win.
• He’s…smiling. Though I’m not sure if he’s smiling at me – he was already smiling before he looked at me. But then he offers me a slow, steady nod that makes my heart feel like it has springs. I have a chance. *We* have a chance.
• ‘It hurt ’cause I care about you.’ His words feel like a hug and a stab at the same time.
• ‘my heart was still with you.’ So, Wale *was* in love with me this entire time.
• But something about this moment is uniquely special. Perhaps because we’re both different people. We communicate better. We’re open. Honest. We also understand each other a lot more. We know each other’s fears, triggers and insecurities. And what we desire from each other at this present moment.
• Honestly, I couldn’t have written this story if I tried.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Lizzie Damilola Blackburn, Penguin for the opportunity. A huge thank you to the Penguin General Influencer program for providing me with a paperback copy. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
February 16, 2025
Temi needed therapy not a man. Her lying problem was extensive.
August 1, 2025
This romcom with a British-Nigerian main character is the right cup of tea at the right time and the right place. Such a refreshing point of view!
Imagine writing your dream novel for four years, only to be turned down by publishing companies over and over again. Temi gave up nights on the town with her friends, lazy Sundays in the park, and even job opportunities to write her baby, Wildest Dreams. Now her agent has given it the hammer, and wants Temi to finish writing another novel, Love Drive within 30 days, a novel that Temi has only one chapter written, unbeknownst to her agent.
To further complicate matters, Temi lost her part-time job, and has been forced to take on a position as a ghost writer for a celebrity just to make ends meet. Here’s the kicker: her x-boyfriend Wale is the celebrity, and he broke her heart by starring in a reality dating show and leaving her behind!
Can Temi save her barely breathing writing career by finishing Love Drive in 30 days, and catapulting Wild Dreams? Will Temi and Wale be given a re-write with their love life while collaborating on his novel?
Brilliantly written with a strong, unique voice and characters that live on long after you close this book, The Re-Write is a must-read for all romcom lovers!
Imagine writing your dream novel for four years, only to be turned down by publishing companies over and over again. Temi gave up nights on the town with her friends, lazy Sundays in the park, and even job opportunities to write her baby, Wildest Dreams. Now her agent has given it the hammer, and wants Temi to finish writing another novel, Love Drive within 30 days, a novel that Temi has only one chapter written, unbeknownst to her agent.
To further complicate matters, Temi lost her part-time job, and has been forced to take on a position as a ghost writer for a celebrity just to make ends meet. Here’s the kicker: her x-boyfriend Wale is the celebrity, and he broke her heart by starring in a reality dating show and leaving her behind!
Can Temi save her barely breathing writing career by finishing Love Drive in 30 days, and catapulting Wild Dreams? Will Temi and Wale be given a re-write with their love life while collaborating on his novel?
Brilliantly written with a strong, unique voice and characters that live on long after you close this book, The Re-Write is a must-read for all romcom lovers!
November 4, 2024
"Maybe I was in love with the idea of being in love."
"He goes to hold my hand and then stops himself, his eyes and expression an apology letter."
I'm a girl who has a slight addiction to Love Island, so OF COURSE as soon as I read the blurb of this book I was going to be all in. I can confirm, I had a great old time.
Let me tell you, I started off this book DESPISING Wale. During their first zoom interview I had a genuine physical reaction to my hatred for him and what he had done to Temi. I think it's probably because the premise of this story is so realistic. I cannot imagine over the years how many people have left their relationships so that they could pursue fame on a reality dating TV show.
That being said, throughout this book I really found myself falling in love with both Temi and Wale and I was desperate for them both to get a happy ending. This isn't to say that I didn't want to shake them both multiple times because oh my goodness, sometimes they just needed to get their shit together. And I don't want to give too much away but Wales explanation in the final chapter for some of his behaviour didn't quite cut it for me.
One of the amazing things about this book was that it didn't shy away from incredibly difficult topics from racism, racial stereotypes, sexual assault, alcoholism, toxic masculinity, caring, etc etc.
This is such a fun, thought provoking read. If you are a fan of second chance romances, and love island (oh I'm sorry The Villa * yikes * ) then I cannot recommend this book enough. Strap in and enjoy the ride.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC ❤️
"He goes to hold my hand and then stops himself, his eyes and expression an apology letter."
I'm a girl who has a slight addiction to Love Island, so OF COURSE as soon as I read the blurb of this book I was going to be all in. I can confirm, I had a great old time.
Let me tell you, I started off this book DESPISING Wale. During their first zoom interview I had a genuine physical reaction to my hatred for him and what he had done to Temi. I think it's probably because the premise of this story is so realistic. I cannot imagine over the years how many people have left their relationships so that they could pursue fame on a reality dating TV show.
That being said, throughout this book I really found myself falling in love with both Temi and Wale and I was desperate for them both to get a happy ending. This isn't to say that I didn't want to shake them both multiple times because oh my goodness, sometimes they just needed to get their shit together. And I don't want to give too much away but Wales explanation in the final chapter for some of his behaviour didn't quite cut it for me.
One of the amazing things about this book was that it didn't shy away from incredibly difficult topics from racism, racial stereotypes, sexual assault, alcoholism, toxic masculinity, caring, etc etc.
This is such a fun, thought provoking read. If you are a fan of second chance romances, and love island (oh I'm sorry The Villa * yikes * ) then I cannot recommend this book enough. Strap in and enjoy the ride.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC ❤️
August 9, 2025
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
Trigger warning: Assault.
"The Re-Write" follows Temi. Temi is heartbroken after her ex, Wale, broke-up with her to go on a reality dating show called "Love Villa." The latest season is over and Wale was depicted as a villain and a player, but a huge favorite of the fans of the show. Temi though ends up feeling even more broken after her latest manuscript does not sell and her agent offers her a job to ghostwrite for a celebrity. When Temi attends the virtual meeting though, she's shocked to find the celebrity is Wale and that he wants a memoir to show the fans of the "Love Villa" that he's not a bad guy, just misunderstood. And Temi doesn't know if she can do that especially after everything that went on with them. Temi agrees to the job, and then finds herself finding out more about Wale then she thought possible, and that maybe she has had him wrong this whole time.
This was so good. I loved the entire premise of this one, we lovers to enemies and back to lovers trope here and it really works. I thought that Damilola Blackburn really made this a contemporary novel that I think fans of Love Island and Love is Blind would really get into. She also provides an insight into the Nigerian culture living and working in the UK. She even touches about black male's mental health. You would think that sounds like a lot and is it too busy, but it really isn't. I thought the entire book flowed wonderfully from chapter to chapter.
The character of Temi is how the story is told to us, and I think that she was a vibrant and well developed character. Temi wants to make her parents proud, but is a struggling unpublished author. After her manuscript doesn't sell she turns back into ghostwriting and ends up having her ex that dumped her as her client. We get some insight into Temi and Wale before they break up, but you also get their silliness and how much she loved him. You can't go into the romance book hating the two leads and we get enough to realize that Wale had something else going on with him that accounts for the breakup with Temi.
The secondary characters were great too. Temi's family, Wale's chosen family, their respective best friends, etc. I felt like everyone was well rounded.
I mentioned providing insight into the Nigerian culture and it really did. Windrush was mentioned at one point and I knew about that, but still, seeing it brought up in the context of a romance book was new for me. FYI, I now want to eat everything described in this book.
The ending was great I thought and I was smiling from ear to ear on how everything was resolved into a HEA.
I read this for CBR17bingo, "Diaspora" since this book shows the main lead as Nigerian, but born and raised in the UK and is a British Nigerian.
Trigger warning: Assault.
"The Re-Write" follows Temi. Temi is heartbroken after her ex, Wale, broke-up with her to go on a reality dating show called "Love Villa." The latest season is over and Wale was depicted as a villain and a player, but a huge favorite of the fans of the show. Temi though ends up feeling even more broken after her latest manuscript does not sell and her agent offers her a job to ghostwrite for a celebrity. When Temi attends the virtual meeting though, she's shocked to find the celebrity is Wale and that he wants a memoir to show the fans of the "Love Villa" that he's not a bad guy, just misunderstood. And Temi doesn't know if she can do that especially after everything that went on with them. Temi agrees to the job, and then finds herself finding out more about Wale then she thought possible, and that maybe she has had him wrong this whole time.
This was so good. I loved the entire premise of this one, we lovers to enemies and back to lovers trope here and it really works. I thought that Damilola Blackburn really made this a contemporary novel that I think fans of Love Island and Love is Blind would really get into. She also provides an insight into the Nigerian culture living and working in the UK. She even touches about black male's mental health. You would think that sounds like a lot and is it too busy, but it really isn't. I thought the entire book flowed wonderfully from chapter to chapter.
The character of Temi is how the story is told to us, and I think that she was a vibrant and well developed character. Temi wants to make her parents proud, but is a struggling unpublished author. After her manuscript doesn't sell she turns back into ghostwriting and ends up having her ex that dumped her as her client. We get some insight into Temi and Wale before they break up, but you also get their silliness and how much she loved him. You can't go into the romance book hating the two leads and we get enough to realize that Wale had something else going on with him that accounts for the breakup with Temi.
The secondary characters were great too. Temi's family, Wale's chosen family, their respective best friends, etc. I felt like everyone was well rounded.
I mentioned providing insight into the Nigerian culture and it really did. Windrush was mentioned at one point and I knew about that, but still, seeing it brought up in the context of a romance book was new for me. FYI, I now want to eat everything described in this book.
The ending was great I thought and I was smiling from ear to ear on how everything was resolved into a HEA.
I read this for CBR17bingo, "Diaspora" since this book shows the main lead as Nigerian, but born and raised in the UK and is a British Nigerian.
August 16, 2025
A black plus size woman ghostwriting a memoir for her ex to redeem his reputation which got bad image on a dating show.
I liked the plot very much, it's new, interesting and keeping you hooked till the ending.
but the thing which bothered me is black people being mentioned multiple times, I mean I get that you're writing to support them but you don't have to mention it everytime, such as nigerian restaurant, african american actor, and so on. I honestly felt like at one moment there's a lot of emphasis on black lives.
it felt like instead of making in common it's being highlighted specifically. which I find a little distrubing on my side.
also as the author mentioned the female was a plus size woman, yet I didn't catch much of the part regarding body figure, even with the size I think the beauty factor was missing, or more like not much thought put onto how a curvy body can be beautiful too.
coming on to the story, it was wonderful, I've always loved a slow burn second chance romance novel and this one just delivered it gracefully.
only i was expecting a different ending, more like she'll change the ending of the revenge book she had written over him, but the author decide to have a different ending not that I didn't like it but I think I would've liked it more if her book was published with a different ending.
now last part, i personally liked how black man's emotional insecurity, their vulnerability was mentioned, with FMC's supportive parents, MMC's found family people, everything just added more to the story.
hope you'll have a great time reading it too.
I liked the plot very much, it's new, interesting and keeping you hooked till the ending.
but the thing which bothered me is black people being mentioned multiple times, I mean I get that you're writing to support them but you don't have to mention it everytime, such as nigerian restaurant, african american actor, and so on. I honestly felt like at one moment there's a lot of emphasis on black lives.
it felt like instead of making in common it's being highlighted specifically. which I find a little distrubing on my side.
also as the author mentioned the female was a plus size woman, yet I didn't catch much of the part regarding body figure, even with the size I think the beauty factor was missing, or more like not much thought put onto how a curvy body can be beautiful too.
coming on to the story, it was wonderful, I've always loved a slow burn second chance romance novel and this one just delivered it gracefully.
only i was expecting a different ending, more like she'll change the ending of the revenge book she had written over him, but the author decide to have a different ending not that I didn't like it but I think I would've liked it more if her book was published with a different ending.
now last part, i personally liked how black man's emotional insecurity, their vulnerability was mentioned, with FMC's supportive parents, MMC's found family people, everything just added more to the story.
hope you'll have a great time reading it too.
January 8, 2025
❤️❤️💔🤍🤍 (2.5 stars)
I LOVED “Yinka, Where is your Huzband?”, so had very big hopes for this book. Unfortunately, it just didn’t meet my expectations, and neither did I really connect with the story.
I was a big fan of Love Island, so I loved that Lizzie Damilola Blackburn pulled inspiration from it to tell a Black love story about Temi and Wale. Wale is an emotionally unavailable young Black man who signs up to be a contestant on the latest season of “The Villa”, which causes the breakdown in his relationship to struggling writer, Temi. We follow them as they dart from past to present, rewriting history and mending their future in the process.
I loved the cultural references, both the Nigerian and Black British ones, and felt like it kept their story and context very authentic. I found Temi infuriating; she made childish decisions and it made the plot a little farcical and forced as a result. The blossoming love story of their best friends Fonzo and Shona was a nice icing on the cake.
This book lightly dusts over some heavy topics such as the weight of being a carer & the mental toll it takes on young people; mental health and stigma in the Black community; addiction; and social media bullying & harassment. All of which I wish we delved in a little deeper into.
I LOVED “Yinka, Where is your Huzband?”, so had very big hopes for this book. Unfortunately, it just didn’t meet my expectations, and neither did I really connect with the story.
I was a big fan of Love Island, so I loved that Lizzie Damilola Blackburn pulled inspiration from it to tell a Black love story about Temi and Wale. Wale is an emotionally unavailable young Black man who signs up to be a contestant on the latest season of “The Villa”, which causes the breakdown in his relationship to struggling writer, Temi. We follow them as they dart from past to present, rewriting history and mending their future in the process.
I loved the cultural references, both the Nigerian and Black British ones, and felt like it kept their story and context very authentic. I found Temi infuriating; she made childish decisions and it made the plot a little farcical and forced as a result. The blossoming love story of their best friends Fonzo and Shona was a nice icing on the cake.
This book lightly dusts over some heavy topics such as the weight of being a carer & the mental toll it takes on young people; mental health and stigma in the Black community; addiction; and social media bullying & harassment. All of which I wish we delved in a little deeper into.
March 9, 2025
I read this book for book club. Truthfully romantic fiction isn't typically a genre I read or I particularly like but I *tried* to keep an open mind. So with that being said I'm aware that my rating and review is coloured by thoughts around the genre itself.
This book is about the relationship and breakup of a couple, Temi and Wale. After their break up, Wale rebounds by going on a dating reality TV show whilst Temi focuses on her dream career of becoming a writer. Whilst Wale becomes somewhat of a celebrity/influencer, Temi struggles to make her dream a reality. Then an opportunity to ghostwrite a celebrity memoir present itself and *of course* that celebrity is none other than her ex, Wale.
I found the storyline was fast paced with lots of drama. It's told from Temi perspective which was quite emotional. I didn't love the writing style, it tended to be more focus on action of characters and dialogue. I prefer more descriptive writing which helps me visual the scene, characters and atmosphere.
We are introduced to several characters although I feel like the only character we get deeper insight on, is Wale as he is the love interest and subject of the memoir. I think that we definitely could of learnt a lot more about Temi - outside of her ambition to become a published writer, love of styling different glasses, insecurities of being plus sized and just how people view her in general... I didn't really feel like I understood or even liked her character, she just lied whether by omission or quite literally.
Friends, family, colleagues outside of Wale and Temi were quite basic. For instance, the best friend Shoni, was in several parts of the storyline but you don't learn much about who she is, appearance or personality wise. She literally is a side kick for Temi, moving the storyline forward.
I had a very hard time buying into the relationship itself. There is a chapter on how the couple initially met which gives some insight into there chemistry and attraction. However Temi spends the majority of the time telling us, the reader that Wale was emotionally unavailable during there relationship and there is no real insight on why these guys are good for each other. Like other than banter there connection felt quite superficial.
On the matter of appearance, Temis novel seemed to be centered around protagonist who are "unapologetically plus sized" and she herself is plus sized. I really wished this theme was explored a bit more. In my opinion, it felt more like lip service as the story does not really reflect on what this means for the characters in Temi books or for Temi herself.
Which is why I also I found it very interesting how much adoration was given to Wale toned, muscular physique - especially as I feel we don't get much more description on his physical appearance other than his beard???
If there was one recurrent theme in this book it was that Temi would repeatedly lie and covering her a** until she couldn't maintain the lie. And yet she comes away the end fairly unscathed in her relationship and professionally... With all her manipulation and dishonesty, she gets her happy ending....
IDK, I just couldn't
it's just no for me
but perhaps I'm not as forgiving as the characters in the book
This book really wasn't my cup of tea. I didn't love the premise, the story telling or the ending BUT I also not big in to romance so take of that what you will.
August 28, 2025
Forever grateful to Libby and the skip the line feature for always saving me time and money 🥹.
1.5 stars
First off, the characters are way too young to be having what reads like a midlife crisis, 22 and 25? Really? It just didn’t feel believable. The FMC is described as plus-size, but the cover definitely doesn’t reflect that, which already felt misleading.
And then the female main character… whew. Basically, this entire book was just her lying. She would even pause to think, “I shouldn’t lie” and then goes ahead and lie anyway. Page after page, it was lie after lie, until she finally confessed when it all became too much. And instead of real consequences, everyone just gave her a second chance like nothing happened. I’m sorry, but no. The way she was forgiven so easily, despite telling such massive lies, made it hard to take her arc seriously. She didn’t suffer a single consequence for her actions.
This actually reminded me of Yinka, Where Is Your Husband?, which was written by the same author. I’m starting to feel like the author has a habit of writing her female leads as chronic liars, not because it makes sense for the character, but just to push the plot forward. And for me, it doesn’t work. It makes the characters frustrating rather than sympathetic.
I did appreciate the conversation around men and toxic masculinity, insecurity, and feeling inadequate as a man, especially as a black man, but the execution felt forced. Add in the fact that the story was all the way predictable and straight-up cringey, and it just didn’t land.
Overall, there were ideas here that could’ve worked, but the writing and character choices made it frustrating to get through.
1.5 stars
First off, the characters are way too young to be having what reads like a midlife crisis, 22 and 25? Really? It just didn’t feel believable. The FMC is described as plus-size, but the cover definitely doesn’t reflect that, which already felt misleading.
And then the female main character… whew. Basically, this entire book was just her lying. She would even pause to think, “I shouldn’t lie” and then goes ahead and lie anyway. Page after page, it was lie after lie, until she finally confessed when it all became too much. And instead of real consequences, everyone just gave her a second chance like nothing happened. I’m sorry, but no. The way she was forgiven so easily, despite telling such massive lies, made it hard to take her arc seriously. She didn’t suffer a single consequence for her actions.
This actually reminded me of Yinka, Where Is Your Husband?, which was written by the same author. I’m starting to feel like the author has a habit of writing her female leads as chronic liars, not because it makes sense for the character, but just to push the plot forward. And for me, it doesn’t work. It makes the characters frustrating rather than sympathetic.
I did appreciate the conversation around men and toxic masculinity, insecurity, and feeling inadequate as a man, especially as a black man, but the execution felt forced. Add in the fact that the story was all the way predictable and straight-up cringey, and it just didn’t land.
Overall, there were ideas here that could’ve worked, but the writing and character choices made it frustrating to get through.
July 17, 2025
ARC Review
Self-doubt, secrets, and deadlines—The Re-Write delivers them all in a whirlwind lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers romance that’s as messy as it is addictive. From the very first page, I was hooked and found myself unwilling to put the book down. The emotional pull between Temi and Wale is undeniable, even when everything else around them is falling apart.
Temi is a determined aspiring author trying to get her book published, but she keeps falling short—and it's not just the publishing world getting in her way. She is ambitious, sharp, and deeply flawed. Her own fears, self-doubt, and a serious avoidance of honest conversations sabotage her more than once. Honestly, the girl needs therapy. So many situations could’ve been avoided if she’d just told the truth, but her flaws are what make her journey all the more compelling.
Wale, on the other hand, is the misunderstood villain of a reality TV dating show, trying to reclaim his narrative and show the world who he really is. Beneath the public image Wale is sensitive, guarded, and surprisingly a true lover boy. His struggle to be truly seen and heard on his own terms makes him the perfect foil—and match—for Temi.
Watching them push and pull, clash and reconnect, made for a story that felt both dramatic and grounded. There were definitely moments I didn’t think they’d find their way back to each other, which only made their journey more satisfying.
The Re-Write is heartfelt, chaotic, romantic, and real. It’s about second chances—not just at love, but at being the version of yourself you were always meant to be. Highly recommend if you love sharp banter, emotional depth, and characters you root for even when they’re making a mess of things.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lizzie Damilola Blackburn and Penguin Books for an advanced reader copy for my honest opinions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Self-doubt, secrets, and deadlines—The Re-Write delivers them all in a whirlwind lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers romance that’s as messy as it is addictive. From the very first page, I was hooked and found myself unwilling to put the book down. The emotional pull between Temi and Wale is undeniable, even when everything else around them is falling apart.
Temi is a determined aspiring author trying to get her book published, but she keeps falling short—and it's not just the publishing world getting in her way. She is ambitious, sharp, and deeply flawed. Her own fears, self-doubt, and a serious avoidance of honest conversations sabotage her more than once. Honestly, the girl needs therapy. So many situations could’ve been avoided if she’d just told the truth, but her flaws are what make her journey all the more compelling.
Wale, on the other hand, is the misunderstood villain of a reality TV dating show, trying to reclaim his narrative and show the world who he really is. Beneath the public image Wale is sensitive, guarded, and surprisingly a true lover boy. His struggle to be truly seen and heard on his own terms makes him the perfect foil—and match—for Temi.
Watching them push and pull, clash and reconnect, made for a story that felt both dramatic and grounded. There were definitely moments I didn’t think they’d find their way back to each other, which only made their journey more satisfying.
The Re-Write is heartfelt, chaotic, romantic, and real. It’s about second chances—not just at love, but at being the version of yourself you were always meant to be. Highly recommend if you love sharp banter, emotional depth, and characters you root for even when they’re making a mess of things.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lizzie Damilola Blackburn and Penguin Books for an advanced reader copy for my honest opinions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 8, 2025
Temi and Wale meet in London, and later begin dating—until Wale unexpectedly ends things, leaving Temi heartbroken. She pours all her energy into writing a novel, determined to turn pain into purpose. But despite her best efforts, publishers keep turning her down. Just when things seem hopeless, a new opportunity lands in her lap: a chance to ghostwrite for a celebrity.
The twist? That celebrity is none other than Wale.
Cue me dramatically clutching my pearls—because WHAT?!
That’s all I’ll say—no more spoilers here. You’ll just have to read it yourself when it comes out.
Expected Release Date: 08/12/2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the early access. All thoughts in this review are my own.
The twist? That celebrity is none other than Wale.
Cue me dramatically clutching my pearls—because WHAT?!
That’s all I’ll say—no more spoilers here. You’ll just have to read it yourself when it comes out.
Expected Release Date: 08/12/2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the early access. All thoughts in this review are my own.
September 30, 2025
This book was poorly written. I couldn’t her why she was so smitten by Wale. None of it added up. And to be deeply in love with someone you know nothing about and you yourself cannot be honest with. I think the pov was for personal insecurity due to her weight and her lack of professional advancement. But it was a very weak job by the author. Atleast make your character likable. Even the angle with Kofo seemed unnecessary. Only the Jamaican dialect gave me a bit of interest
It was not good.
It was not good.
March 23, 2025
This was a nice second chance trope romance. I loved Walé’s character growth and I appreciated the conversation ma surrounding masculinity and what truly makes a man a man. I really hoped we’d have interacted more with Walé’s parents. Understand the writer was trying to make a point but their absence irked me.
I found Temi’s character annoying to a degree and much as I was rooting for her to win and figure things out, she seemed to me like she was always taking the chance to weave complications for herself. I resented the way her arc played out… that her most substantial growth was attributed to her reconciliation to Walé. The improvement of her relationship with her parents as well as her mending her relationship with her agent was amazing but it felt glossed over.
All in all, it was a pleasant book and it made me smile.
I found Temi’s character annoying to a degree and much as I was rooting for her to win and figure things out, she seemed to me like she was always taking the chance to weave complications for herself. I resented the way her arc played out… that her most substantial growth was attributed to her reconciliation to Walé. The improvement of her relationship with her parents as well as her mending her relationship with her agent was amazing but it felt glossed over.
All in all, it was a pleasant book and it made me smile.
October 2, 2025
3.75, but rounded up to 4 stars. I'm so glad I read this via audio! The narration kicked the story up a notch. The plot of the book was fun, and I really appreciated the representation of care partners. Most novels that feature care partners as main characters are usually written as women, so it was refreshing to see a MMC serve as a care partner.
But as a second-chance romance, I couldn't help but feel like Temi and Wale would have been better off as friends! They were both likable (despite Temi's lying), but I didn't really feel their chemistry throughout the book. Read if you enjoy:
-Books about writers
-Books that feature reality TV
-Second chance romances
But as a second-chance romance, I couldn't help but feel like Temi and Wale would have been better off as friends! They were both likable (despite Temi's lying), but I didn't really feel their chemistry throughout the book. Read if you enjoy:
-Books about writers
-Books that feature reality TV
-Second chance romances
February 10, 2025
What if after you broke up, your ex joined a Love Island-esque tv show? And what if you were then hired to ghostwrite his memoir? And the more time you spent together, the more you realized you didn't actually know him all that well, and he's a much better person than you gave him credit for? But you hate-wrote a book inspired by him that's now being published?
An unputdownable how-will-they-fix-this kind of story, The Re-Write combines not one but two themes I love in a romance book: writing and reality tv. It works really well as a second chance romance, because once Temi and Wale start working together on his memoir, they slowly discover how little they actually knew each other before, they start opening up to each other more, and their trust and love build. Except there are still secrets between them that could ruin everything between them, which adds tension to the story. I did sometimes wish they'd just be honest with each other, but ultimately I loved how everything was resolved. I didn't expect to love Wale as a character, based on the way he was introduced, but the more I learned about him, the more I loved him.
An unputdownable how-will-they-fix-this kind of story, The Re-Write combines not one but two themes I love in a romance book: writing and reality tv. It works really well as a second chance romance, because once Temi and Wale start working together on his memoir, they slowly discover how little they actually knew each other before, they start opening up to each other more, and their trust and love build. Except there are still secrets between them that could ruin everything between them, which adds tension to the story. I did sometimes wish they'd just be honest with each other, but ultimately I loved how everything was resolved. I didn't expect to love Wale as a character, based on the way he was introduced, but the more I learned about him, the more I loved him.
January 22, 2025
What a feel-good story this is. It's full of trials and tribulations but shows that honesty is always the best policy and that second chances are sometimes the best decision you'll ever make.
I really found Wale's story inspiring and loved how they were trying to break the black male stereotype in the memoir.
Temi, an author, is a really great character with so much going on.
I particularly liked Shona and Fonzo, even if I kept expecting him to go 'ay' (nope, just me that kept picturing the Fonz despite it being a Nigerian cast?). You could just tell from the little mentions of them in the flashbacks that they were meant to be together and would make a super cute couple.
I'd have liked to have seen Temi go back to re-write The Ultimate Payback with the characters having the same ending she and Wale did, but that's the only thing I'd have liked different.
This was a super quick read for me, finishing it in two sittings over 24 hours.
This is the second book I've read by this author now, and they seem to be getting better and better so I can't wait to see what comes next.
I really found Wale's story inspiring and loved how they were trying to break the black male stereotype in the memoir.
Temi, an author, is a really great character with so much going on.
I particularly liked Shona and Fonzo, even if I kept expecting him to go 'ay' (nope, just me that kept picturing the Fonz despite it being a Nigerian cast?). You could just tell from the little mentions of them in the flashbacks that they were meant to be together and would make a super cute couple.
I'd have liked to have seen Temi go back to re-write The Ultimate Payback with the characters having the same ending she and Wale did, but that's the only thing I'd have liked different.
This was a super quick read for me, finishing it in two sittings over 24 hours.
This is the second book I've read by this author now, and they seem to be getting better and better so I can't wait to see what comes next.
August 1, 2025
First things first, thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Books for allowing me to read an ARC of this novel! The cover art and the premise were what drew me in, but Lizzie Damilola Blackburn kept me coming back for more throughout the book.
Temi and Wale are both British Nigerian, Temi is a romance author/ ghostwriter, and Wale is her ex-boyfriend who goes on the reality dating show "The Villa" aka Love Island. I've never seen an episode of that show but now I'm intrigued. Temi is tasked with writing Wale's memoir as a ghostwriter, and this is the main plot point throughout.
This is a second chance romance with a lot of important topics sprinkled throughout such as alcoholism, trauma, sexual harassment/assault, parental expectations, fat shaming, and toxic masculinity. I don't recall a trigger warning in the beginning of the book so allow this to be your warning on these heavy topics. The novel itself is still lighthearted for the most part but having those serious topics discussed is so important, especially in the year 2025.
The pace was good, I liked the writing style, and I enjoyed the connection between Temi and Wale. I would have liked to see a bit more of their Nigerian heritage throughout the story, but I understand that wasn't the main point. Temi and Wale both go through a LOT of character growth throughout the story, and I appreciated the commentary on Black men and the societal expectations and stigmas that are placed on them. I also appreciate Temi being comfortable with her body and embracing that she is a curvy girl rather than feeling unworthy or ugly. She doesn't see Wale as out of her league despite the internet telling her otherwise and we LOVE a secure baddie!
I would definitely read other novel by Blackburn and I hope others enjoy this novel the way I did.
Temi and Wale are both British Nigerian, Temi is a romance author/ ghostwriter, and Wale is her ex-boyfriend who goes on the reality dating show "The Villa" aka Love Island. I've never seen an episode of that show but now I'm intrigued. Temi is tasked with writing Wale's memoir as a ghostwriter, and this is the main plot point throughout.
This is a second chance romance with a lot of important topics sprinkled throughout such as alcoholism, trauma, sexual harassment/assault, parental expectations, fat shaming, and toxic masculinity. I don't recall a trigger warning in the beginning of the book so allow this to be your warning on these heavy topics. The novel itself is still lighthearted for the most part but having those serious topics discussed is so important, especially in the year 2025.
The pace was good, I liked the writing style, and I enjoyed the connection between Temi and Wale. I would have liked to see a bit more of their Nigerian heritage throughout the story, but I understand that wasn't the main point. Temi and Wale both go through a LOT of character growth throughout the story, and I appreciated the commentary on Black men and the societal expectations and stigmas that are placed on them. I also appreciate Temi being comfortable with her body and embracing that she is a curvy girl rather than feeling unworthy or ugly. She doesn't see Wale as out of her league despite the internet telling her otherwise and we LOVE a secure baddie!
I would definitely read other novel by Blackburn and I hope others enjoy this novel the way I did.
January 30, 2025
This was a fun time. I always find myself enjoying second-chance romances, and Temi and Wale were no different. I enjoyed the journey they went on alone and together and enjoyed learning a bit about Nigerian culture and the publishing industry through the story. The writing was easy to read, and I found myself reading half the book in a night. I loved most of our side characters (if you've read the book, you know who I don't) and found myself rooting for Temi and Wale on their own journeys and for their relationship.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this ARC! As always thoughts and feelings are my own.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this ARC! As always thoughts and feelings are my own.
October 1, 2025
After the last second chance romance I read which had an infuriating leave & return, the similar vibes in this book had me not wanting a second chance romance. But - it had more depth and explanation, which ultimately had some redemption for me.
Interesting and multi-dimensional story line, including some cultural references and societal stereotypes, which helped make the shallow love story be more compelling as other aspects of their lives were explored.
Not my favorite, but ultimately pretty good. The ending redeemed some of the rough middle.
More thoughts to come -
Interesting and multi-dimensional story line, including some cultural references and societal stereotypes, which helped make the shallow love story be more compelling as other aspects of their lives were explored.
Not my favorite, but ultimately pretty good. The ending redeemed some of the rough middle.
More thoughts to come -
August 26, 2025
I absolutely enjoyed every moment of this book! It was a beautifully written love story about a writer and a tv reality star. This was a second chance romance that was to die for! I can’t wait to read more from this author! The narrator was perfect and did an excellent job!!! Highly recommend!!! Thank you PRH Audio!
September 8, 2025
second-chance romance is not my preferred trope, but this was cute enough even if i think temi needed extensive therapy
April 24, 2025
3.5 rounded up
I liked this book, I read it rather quickly but it wasn't super memorable for me.
I liked this book, I read it rather quickly but it wasn't super memorable for me.
September 4, 2025
2.5 …meh. Meio que lackluster? Fofo mas arrastado, sem emoção, sei lá. Algo que vou esquecer daqui a pouco.
September 22, 2025
If you read my reading updates, you know that I love RomCom and I really gravitate to books about authors and writing. I wanted to like this but it was just okay for me, which was the same as her last book as well. Love the premise, can appreciate the characters but always leaves me wanting a bit more. Times feel rushed, others slowed and the wrap up is a bit too neat and quick for me.
February 23, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm not a fan of second chance romance books but the thing that made me interested in this was the Love Island esque element. I watch it yearly and so I was intrigued with how this story would go. I started off despising Wale, that man could get in the bin as far as I was concerned. But as Temi embarked on her ghost-writing journey I started to see him differently.
There were many times where I wanted to yell at both MCs because they just did not communicate. Another trope I'm not a fan of. Neither of them trusted the other enough to tell the truth so decided to hide it or lie, which is perhaps the dumbest thing to do. All in all I did enjoy their interactions with each other for the most part.
As light, funny and sometimes frustrating as this book is, it also touches on really serious topics like alcoholism, sexual assault and racism.
Being born and raised in London, I also enjoyed knowing the locations of where everything was being set. It added a nice touch for me.
I'm not a fan of second chance romance books but the thing that made me interested in this was the Love Island esque element. I watch it yearly and so I was intrigued with how this story would go. I started off despising Wale, that man could get in the bin as far as I was concerned. But as Temi embarked on her ghost-writing journey I started to see him differently.
There were many times where I wanted to yell at both MCs because they just did not communicate. Another trope I'm not a fan of. Neither of them trusted the other enough to tell the truth so decided to hide it or lie, which is perhaps the dumbest thing to do. All in all I did enjoy their interactions with each other for the most part.
As light, funny and sometimes frustrating as this book is, it also touches on really serious topics like alcoholism, sexual assault and racism.
Being born and raised in London, I also enjoyed knowing the locations of where everything was being set. It added a nice touch for me.
December 11, 2024
What can be worst than the man you’re in love with breaking up with you to go to a dating reality show?
Probably being hired to ghostwrite his memoir after said show is over !
The Rewrite follows Temi and Wale who, after meeting one day London, start seeing each other. They do everything: go on fun dates, laugh a lot, meet each other’s friends. Before she knows it, Temi is falling in love. And then the unthinkable happens: Wale dumps her to go on a reality dating show called Love Villa. Temi, though heartbroken, focuses on what she loves most : writing. She’s very close to her first book deal and is determined to get it, no matter what. But no matter her determination, rejections still pile up and bills need to be paid. So when the opportunity presents itself to her to ghostwrite a celebrity memoir, she has to accept. When said celebrity turns out to be the boy who broke her heart and still hasn’t quite left her mind, however, things get a bit more complicated
So when you are forced to collaborate with the boy who broke your heart (and is now a national douchebag ) for six weeks to tell his life story, what happens ?
Well, needless to say, things get interesting.
I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did . Starting with the Fresh Prince of Bel Air references ( I too have heart eyes every time I see Nia Long), I immediately felt like the cast of this book were my friend group. ( I kept imagining Fonzo as a Jazz lookalike I’m not sorry).
Temi was such a sweet, relatable character and i honestly felt for her. Her chemistry with Wale was undeniable and I was rooting for them from their first interaction.
But I also deeply cared about their circle. I found myself wanting to know everyone’s story. I think Lizzie Damilola Blackburn has a unique way to make her characters feel like real people, people you already know and love.
What made me enjoy this book as much as I did though, besides the incredible romance and friendships, was the exploration of how people are different from what they think they are and there’s so much to people’s stories than the one side of them we usually meet . I think this book was also a very accurate description of how masculine stereotypes affect men and ultimately make them suffer. What I’m trying to say is, you’ll find so much more than just an excellent romance.
The only thing I’d change, if i can even say that, is I’d love a bit more of Temis and Wales relationship before their breakup, maybe an extra scene or two of their fun together!
Thank you so much to Penguin General UK and NetGalley for giving me this Arc in exchange for an honest review
And also thank you Lizzie, for writing this ! I can’t wait to read everything you’ve written and will write!
Probably being hired to ghostwrite his memoir after said show is over !
The Rewrite follows Temi and Wale who, after meeting one day London, start seeing each other. They do everything: go on fun dates, laugh a lot, meet each other’s friends. Before she knows it, Temi is falling in love. And then the unthinkable happens: Wale dumps her to go on a reality dating show called Love Villa. Temi, though heartbroken, focuses on what she loves most : writing. She’s very close to her first book deal and is determined to get it, no matter what. But no matter her determination, rejections still pile up and bills need to be paid. So when the opportunity presents itself to her to ghostwrite a celebrity memoir, she has to accept. When said celebrity turns out to be the boy who broke her heart and still hasn’t quite left her mind, however, things get a bit more complicated
So when you are forced to collaborate with the boy who broke your heart (and is now a national douchebag ) for six weeks to tell his life story, what happens ?
Well, needless to say, things get interesting.
I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did . Starting with the Fresh Prince of Bel Air references ( I too have heart eyes every time I see Nia Long), I immediately felt like the cast of this book were my friend group. ( I kept imagining Fonzo as a Jazz lookalike I’m not sorry).
Temi was such a sweet, relatable character and i honestly felt for her. Her chemistry with Wale was undeniable and I was rooting for them from their first interaction.
But I also deeply cared about their circle. I found myself wanting to know everyone’s story. I think Lizzie Damilola Blackburn has a unique way to make her characters feel like real people, people you already know and love.
What made me enjoy this book as much as I did though, besides the incredible romance and friendships, was the exploration of how people are different from what they think they are and there’s so much to people’s stories than the one side of them we usually meet . I think this book was also a very accurate description of how masculine stereotypes affect men and ultimately make them suffer. What I’m trying to say is, you’ll find so much more than just an excellent romance.
The only thing I’d change, if i can even say that, is I’d love a bit more of Temis and Wales relationship before their breakup, maybe an extra scene or two of their fun together!
Thank you so much to Penguin General UK and NetGalley for giving me this Arc in exchange for an honest review
And also thank you Lizzie, for writing this ! I can’t wait to read everything you’ve written and will write!
February 15, 2025
3.75✨
October 14, 2024
Hello book lovers 📚
ARC book review - The ReWrite by @lizziedamiblackburn
This was my first experience of Lizzie’s writing and I’m annoyed that I haven’t read any of her previous work before.
This was an easy breezy fun read. I loved the character development of both Temi and Wale (and Fonzo and Shona) and the themes explored throughout. In my opinion, I felt the exploration of these themes were just right. Not too much & not too little.
Our MC Temi learning the importance of taking accountability, being truthful, finding her voice and regaining her confidence was beautiful to read. At times I wanted to shake Temi and tell her to just tell the truth and stop over apologising😬 as an over apologising black woman I get it but one sorry is enough sis😅😅.
I really enjoyed learning about Wale’s upbringing and how this played out in his adult relationships, both platonic and romantic. It was a joy seeing Wale learning that being a vulnerable (black) man is okay and there are spaces whereby people allow black men to be vulnerable. I liked that he learnt the importance of communication and how important it was to reclaim his power and rewrite the narrative (see what I did there😉).
There were a few themes in this book that Lizzie touched on such as:
- Alcoholism and the impact it has on spouses and dependants.
- Toxic masculinity & the need to always be the ‘strong black man’
- Fat-phobia & always be conscious of your weight because of “societal expectations” & how you’re treated because of it.
- Parent and people pleasing due to rejection or scolding.
- The importance of therapy, especially for our black men and for the black community.
Another theme that was spoken about and explored throughout the book was around caring responsibilities. Something so common in society that is often overlooked, not spoken about enough and severely under-resourced.
Overall, this was a wonderfully written multilayered story. I was engaged throughout and I love an epilogue so shout out you Lizzie! I’m off to borrow ‘Yinka Where Is Your Huzband?’ from the library now.
This comes out Feb 25, keep your eyes peeled. A must buy!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#readblackauthors #netgalley #therewrite
ARC book review - The ReWrite by @lizziedamiblackburn
This was my first experience of Lizzie’s writing and I’m annoyed that I haven’t read any of her previous work before.
This was an easy breezy fun read. I loved the character development of both Temi and Wale (and Fonzo and Shona) and the themes explored throughout. In my opinion, I felt the exploration of these themes were just right. Not too much & not too little.
Our MC Temi learning the importance of taking accountability, being truthful, finding her voice and regaining her confidence was beautiful to read. At times I wanted to shake Temi and tell her to just tell the truth and stop over apologising😬 as an over apologising black woman I get it but one sorry is enough sis😅😅.
I really enjoyed learning about Wale’s upbringing and how this played out in his adult relationships, both platonic and romantic. It was a joy seeing Wale learning that being a vulnerable (black) man is okay and there are spaces whereby people allow black men to be vulnerable. I liked that he learnt the importance of communication and how important it was to reclaim his power and rewrite the narrative (see what I did there😉).
There were a few themes in this book that Lizzie touched on such as:
- Alcoholism and the impact it has on spouses and dependants.
- Toxic masculinity & the need to always be the ‘strong black man’
- Fat-phobia & always be conscious of your weight because of “societal expectations” & how you’re treated because of it.
- Parent and people pleasing due to rejection or scolding.
- The importance of therapy, especially for our black men and for the black community.
Another theme that was spoken about and explored throughout the book was around caring responsibilities. Something so common in society that is often overlooked, not spoken about enough and severely under-resourced.
Overall, this was a wonderfully written multilayered story. I was engaged throughout and I love an epilogue so shout out you Lizzie! I’m off to borrow ‘Yinka Where Is Your Huzband?’ from the library now.
This comes out Feb 25, keep your eyes peeled. A must buy!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#readblackauthors #netgalley #therewrite
November 19, 2024
So, you know on reality shows (ones like Love Island) where from time to time a rumour is circulated that one of the contestants has a boyfriend/girlfriend back home? One where they’ve just happened to break up days before the contestant joins the show? Well, buckle up as this story is similar!
We start with Temi, a writer who had a bad break up with her boyfriend, Wale. Wale shortly afterwards enters Love Villa - the popular reality show to find love.
We follow both of them having to face some truths when Wale comes out of the Villa being labelled the bad boy/player trying to reform his reputation, and Temi struggling and desperate to get a book published.
As a method of trying to repair his reputation he’s agreed to publish an autobiography, which needs a ghost-writer for, cue Temi.
Temi has been struggling to get her book published for quite some time and is in desperate need of work and money. So this deal working with her ex-boyfriend who she still loves but also is deeply hurt by, is one she can’t refuse.
This was a very entertaining read. It almost felt like lovers to enemies to lovers but with a lot of communication issues thrown in. The story had humour as well as touching on other important subjects like masculinity and caring responsibilities. My only very small negative is that it may have tried to deal with too many sensitive topics in too brief of a time e.g. plus size discrimination, SA, alcoholism etc. However, that did not stop or slow me down from reading this book.
If you’re looking for a short, cute and romantic read, I’d highly recommend!
I’m curious to see if we’ll get a part two with the other relationship that forms 👀 (no spoilers).
Thank you to Penguin Random House UK for this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
We start with Temi, a writer who had a bad break up with her boyfriend, Wale. Wale shortly afterwards enters Love Villa - the popular reality show to find love.
We follow both of them having to face some truths when Wale comes out of the Villa being labelled the bad boy/player trying to reform his reputation, and Temi struggling and desperate to get a book published.
As a method of trying to repair his reputation he’s agreed to publish an autobiography, which needs a ghost-writer for, cue Temi.
Temi has been struggling to get her book published for quite some time and is in desperate need of work and money. So this deal working with her ex-boyfriend who she still loves but also is deeply hurt by, is one she can’t refuse.
This was a very entertaining read. It almost felt like lovers to enemies to lovers but with a lot of communication issues thrown in. The story had humour as well as touching on other important subjects like masculinity and caring responsibilities. My only very small negative is that it may have tried to deal with too many sensitive topics in too brief of a time e.g. plus size discrimination, SA, alcoholism etc. However, that did not stop or slow me down from reading this book.
If you’re looking for a short, cute and romantic read, I’d highly recommend!
I’m curious to see if we’ll get a part two with the other relationship that forms 👀 (no spoilers).
Thank you to Penguin Random House UK for this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
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