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Charlie Quinn Lets Go: A Novel
“An absolutely gorgeous, emotionally sweeping story about the importance of family, learning to let go of the past, and how important it is to be brave in your own life.” —Kirsty Greenwood, USA Today bestselling author of The Love of My Afterlife
An irresistible novel about second chances and the magic of relinquishing control.
Charlie Quinn has spent her life playing by the rules. But when, on her thirtieth birthday, she is laid off, her boyfriend leaves her because their life is too “predictable” and she spends the night with violent food poisoning, she hits rock bottom at a stunning velocity, and her carefully constructed world unravels.
She has no choice but to return to her childhood home in LA, where her little sister strikes up an Can control freak Charlie go a whole month saying yes to anything her free-spirited sister requests? Charlie agrees, if only to prove that living by one’s whims will result in nothing but disaster and disappointment.
But when a serendipitous encounter with her high school crush leads to a month of steamy no-strings romance, Charlie starts questioning her monotonous existence. Can she learn to loosen her grip, to let go of past heartbreak, to finally say yes to a messy, bold and exciting life?
What you can
· LA Setting with Life as a Movie Vibes
· Self-Discovery + Learning to Let Go
· Peak Sarcastic Humor
· Black Cat x Golden Retriever Sister Vibes
· Second Chance Romance with Childhood Crush
An irresistible novel about second chances and the magic of relinquishing control.
Charlie Quinn has spent her life playing by the rules. But when, on her thirtieth birthday, she is laid off, her boyfriend leaves her because their life is too “predictable” and she spends the night with violent food poisoning, she hits rock bottom at a stunning velocity, and her carefully constructed world unravels.
She has no choice but to return to her childhood home in LA, where her little sister strikes up an Can control freak Charlie go a whole month saying yes to anything her free-spirited sister requests? Charlie agrees, if only to prove that living by one’s whims will result in nothing but disaster and disappointment.
But when a serendipitous encounter with her high school crush leads to a month of steamy no-strings romance, Charlie starts questioning her monotonous existence. Can she learn to loosen her grip, to let go of past heartbreak, to finally say yes to a messy, bold and exciting life?
What you can
· LA Setting with Life as a Movie Vibes
· Self-Discovery + Learning to Let Go
· Peak Sarcastic Humor
· Black Cat x Golden Retriever Sister Vibes
· Second Chance Romance with Childhood Crush
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
17 people are currently reading
6668 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
September 30, 2025
I loved Jamie Varon's debut novel, "Main Character Energy," and I couldn't wait to dive into her sophomore story—it seriously did not disappoint. "Charlie Quinn Let's Go" is a love letter to life, a powerful and poignant novel that will have you thinking deeply about love, loss, and everything in between.
The story follows Charlie Quinn, a character who at first can be tough to relate to as she finds herself in a truly bad place. However, as the author herself has shared, Charlie acts as a mirror, reflecting our own fears and insecurities back at us. This book is the perfect read for anyone who has ever felt stuck, like they’re falling behind in life, or who has completely closed themselves off to love and the possibility of chasing their dreams.
The novel is a beautiful testament to finding joy again and discovering love in the most unexpected ways. Varon excels at crafting vivid scenes that play out like movie montages—from dance parties to a magical day at Disneyland and quintessential spontaneous romcom moments. This focus on art, music, and truly living life to the fullest serves as a vital reminder that our time is a precious commodity, and that putting everything into work often comes at the expense of our dreams and passions.
Reading this book reminded me of the profound introspection of books like “The Midnight Library” and “The Life Impossible” by Matt Haig, and even brought to mind movies like “Stranger than Fiction” and “Dead Poets Society”. It's a powerful call to action to stop living with regret and start seizing the possibilities right in front of us.
This story is perfect for anyone questioning the rat race of society, climbing the corporate ladder, throwing everything into their work for the illusion of reliability and comfort, at the expense of their dreams, hopes and possibilities of taking a chance on love.
I found myself highlighting countless quotes I loved and know I'll be returning to this book for a reread in the future.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row for an advanced reader copy of this book by author Jamie Varon for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The story follows Charlie Quinn, a character who at first can be tough to relate to as she finds herself in a truly bad place. However, as the author herself has shared, Charlie acts as a mirror, reflecting our own fears and insecurities back at us. This book is the perfect read for anyone who has ever felt stuck, like they’re falling behind in life, or who has completely closed themselves off to love and the possibility of chasing their dreams.
The novel is a beautiful testament to finding joy again and discovering love in the most unexpected ways. Varon excels at crafting vivid scenes that play out like movie montages—from dance parties to a magical day at Disneyland and quintessential spontaneous romcom moments. This focus on art, music, and truly living life to the fullest serves as a vital reminder that our time is a precious commodity, and that putting everything into work often comes at the expense of our dreams and passions.
Reading this book reminded me of the profound introspection of books like “The Midnight Library” and “The Life Impossible” by Matt Haig, and even brought to mind movies like “Stranger than Fiction” and “Dead Poets Society”. It's a powerful call to action to stop living with regret and start seizing the possibilities right in front of us.
This story is perfect for anyone questioning the rat race of society, climbing the corporate ladder, throwing everything into their work for the illusion of reliability and comfort, at the expense of their dreams, hopes and possibilities of taking a chance on love.
I found myself highlighting countless quotes I loved and know I'll be returning to this book for a reread in the future.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row for an advanced reader copy of this book by author Jamie Varon for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2025
One word that captures this novel is joy. But how do you define something so subjective? And how do you recover after surrendering to it for the first time, only to have it snatched away almost immediately? Can a life without joy even be called living? These questions echo through Charlie Quinn Lets Go by Jamie Varon, as we follow Charlie through a month of “yes” in a challenge from her sister meant to push her to finally let go.
The story unfolds almost entirely in Charlie’s first-person voice, and she does not get an easy start. She is laid off, dumped, and struck with food poisoning all on her birthday. Readers may not click with her right away, as her rigidity can feel off-putting and even one-dimensional at first. However, with a little perseverance you begin to see the roots of her behavior and, like me, you may find unexpected empathy creeping in. You may even find yourself invested in her future and in how this month turns out. Give her a bit more time and you will watch Charlie slowly, satisfyingly grow.
Most of the story unfolds in the present day, while the author gradually weaves in chapters that reveal the traumatic event from Charlie’s early adulthood in a well-paced, easily readable way. This piecemeal approach keeps the reader from being overwhelmed by what was, for Charlie, the darkest time of her life. The sunny Los Angeles setting provides an ideal backdrop for her journey toward self-rediscovery and the realization that it is sometimes perfectly fine to surrender to the whims of the universe.
This story is also a love story, not only in the romantic sense but also between a mother and her daughters. There are numerous heartwarming moments as they reconnect after years apart. Of course there is romance too, in the form of a sweet second-chance relationship with Charlie’s high school crush. Sparks practically leap off the page when they first run into each other, and because this is her month of “yes,” she agrees to a short-term, no-strings fling that the reader will quickly hope becomes something more.
Charlie Quinn Lets Go is a quick, delightful read with all the charm of a Hallmark movie. Fans of women’s fiction and romance will find plenty to enjoy.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary advance copy of Charlie Quinn Lets Go from Harlequin Trade Publishing / Park Row through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The story unfolds almost entirely in Charlie’s first-person voice, and she does not get an easy start. She is laid off, dumped, and struck with food poisoning all on her birthday. Readers may not click with her right away, as her rigidity can feel off-putting and even one-dimensional at first. However, with a little perseverance you begin to see the roots of her behavior and, like me, you may find unexpected empathy creeping in. You may even find yourself invested in her future and in how this month turns out. Give her a bit more time and you will watch Charlie slowly, satisfyingly grow.
Most of the story unfolds in the present day, while the author gradually weaves in chapters that reveal the traumatic event from Charlie’s early adulthood in a well-paced, easily readable way. This piecemeal approach keeps the reader from being overwhelmed by what was, for Charlie, the darkest time of her life. The sunny Los Angeles setting provides an ideal backdrop for her journey toward self-rediscovery and the realization that it is sometimes perfectly fine to surrender to the whims of the universe.
This story is also a love story, not only in the romantic sense but also between a mother and her daughters. There are numerous heartwarming moments as they reconnect after years apart. Of course there is romance too, in the form of a sweet second-chance relationship with Charlie’s high school crush. Sparks practically leap off the page when they first run into each other, and because this is her month of “yes,” she agrees to a short-term, no-strings fling that the reader will quickly hope becomes something more.
Charlie Quinn Lets Go is a quick, delightful read with all the charm of a Hallmark movie. Fans of women’s fiction and romance will find plenty to enjoy.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary advance copy of Charlie Quinn Lets Go from Harlequin Trade Publishing / Park Row through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
May 28, 2025
Hi friends! Thank you so much for taking the time to read CHARLIE QUINN LETS GO. This book leapt out of me, as did Charlie, Benny, and Jackie—our Triple Quinn. Earnest family dynamics, internal struggles, a character arc focusing on self-growth—these are the cornerstones of my fiction. All my novels are love stories, in some way or another. I firmly believe love comes in many forms, and navigating that love, those connections, those relationships, that's what makes us feel the most human.
CHARLIE QUINN LETS GO has many love stories woven in. Charlie loving herself. Sisters loving each other. Mom/daughter dynamics/trauma/mommy issues. And, of course, dual timeline love stories with two different men. A college romance, and then a second chance with a teenage crush.
Charlie is learning to open her heart and my wish for this book is for readers to go on that journey with her. To unfold toward all the love around them, in all its many forms. <3
I wanted to also give you some content warnings, in case you have sensitivity to certain topics:
- there is a death in this book
- there is depiction of mental health struggles
I hope you enjoy CQLG. It's my most ambitious novel yet.
CHARLIE QUINN LETS GO has many love stories woven in. Charlie loving herself. Sisters loving each other. Mom/daughter dynamics/trauma/mommy issues. And, of course, dual timeline love stories with two different men. A college romance, and then a second chance with a teenage crush.
Charlie is learning to open her heart and my wish for this book is for readers to go on that journey with her. To unfold toward all the love around them, in all its many forms. <3
I wanted to also give you some content warnings, in case you have sensitivity to certain topics:
- there is a death in this book
- there is depiction of mental health struggles
I hope you enjoy CQLG. It's my most ambitious novel yet.
September 24, 2025
I always love when it feels like a character is just chatting with you, and this had such a fun, conversational tone! From the very start I adored Charlie on her birthday from hell of being laid off, dumped, and coming down with food poisoning. Poor girl. That string of disasters sends her back home to LA, where her younger sister challenges her to say yes to anything for an entire month.
Stumbling her way through this experiment in saying yes, you also get flashbacks to a more adventurous version of Charlie with an ex-boyfriend. At first I thought the flashbacks were setting up a love triangle situation, especially when an old high school crush shows up in present day. But instead, they worked more to shed light on why Charlie struggles so much with accepting love. And I was completely invested in finding out what exactly happened in her past.
The romance was very much a whirlwind of insta-love, but since the focus was clearly more on Charlie’s personal growth, I didn’t mind. I was here for Charlie more than the romance, you could say. Plus, the family dynamics added another great layer, with Charlie’s mom being an aspiring actress with big dreams and her sunny, carefree lifestyle sometimes clashing with Charlie’s craving for stability.
The ending did go a bit off the rails, trying to wrap up all the life lessons at once. But despite the rushed, sort of magical conclusion, I really enjoyed this one! It’s cute, heartfelt, and relatable, especially in those moments of feeling stuck in life. I definitely want to go back and read her debut, Main Character Energy!
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I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Stumbling her way through this experiment in saying yes, you also get flashbacks to a more adventurous version of Charlie with an ex-boyfriend. At first I thought the flashbacks were setting up a love triangle situation, especially when an old high school crush shows up in present day. But instead, they worked more to shed light on why Charlie struggles so much with accepting love. And I was completely invested in finding out what exactly happened in her past.
The romance was very much a whirlwind of insta-love, but since the focus was clearly more on Charlie’s personal growth, I didn’t mind. I was here for Charlie more than the romance, you could say. Plus, the family dynamics added another great layer, with Charlie’s mom being an aspiring actress with big dreams and her sunny, carefree lifestyle sometimes clashing with Charlie’s craving for stability.
The ending did go a bit off the rails, trying to wrap up all the life lessons at once. But despite the rushed, sort of magical conclusion, I really enjoyed this one! It’s cute, heartfelt, and relatable, especially in those moments of feeling stuck in life. I definitely want to go back and read her debut, Main Character Energy!
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I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 18, 2025
Charlie Quinn Lets Go is a novel about second chances, and learning from your mistakes. It follows Charlie Quinn as she returns to her hometown after a disaster of a 30th birthday where her life is upended, and decides to lean in to a month of yes to see if she can change her control freak tendencies.
The FMC is stuck in her ways due to mistakes in her past, but to me feels like she’s built out of cliches in a way that made me roll my eyes as opposed to relate to her. The growth she goes through feels forced, like the novel was close to ending so things needed to tie up neatly as opposed to seeing the characters journey and her path to changing.
I really love Jamie Varon’s writing - I found her through instagram a few years ago, and loved her insightful takes on the world. That being said, I don’t think she’s transitioned to novels from short-form in the way I was hoping she would. This novel, as well as her previous novel (Main Character Energy) are cute quick reads but they lack something to draw me in to become obsessed with the characters and their journey.
I would recommend it but it’s not a must-read for me.
I received this ARC through NetGalley.
The FMC is stuck in her ways due to mistakes in her past, but to me feels like she’s built out of cliches in a way that made me roll my eyes as opposed to relate to her. The growth she goes through feels forced, like the novel was close to ending so things needed to tie up neatly as opposed to seeing the characters journey and her path to changing.
I really love Jamie Varon’s writing - I found her through instagram a few years ago, and loved her insightful takes on the world. That being said, I don’t think she’s transitioned to novels from short-form in the way I was hoping she would. This novel, as well as her previous novel (Main Character Energy) are cute quick reads but they lack something to draw me in to become obsessed with the characters and their journey.
I would recommend it but it’s not a must-read for me.
I received this ARC through NetGalley.
May 19, 2025
This was a big miss for me. I disliked the MC so much, that I found it imposssible to care about the book. I found the writing to be juvenile and pedantic and filled with references that will be out of date within the next few years. The pacing of the book was not great and I found myself only continuing on because I liked Charlie’s mom so much. This book has the potential to be better with lots of tweaks!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an ARC
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an ARC
May 25, 2025
For me, this was the right book at the right time.
I’m not proud to admit that I can relate to Charlie Quinn and the fortress she’d built high around her heart in a lot of ways, and I hope her lessons stick with me long term.
If you’re looking for the inspiration to make changes and embrace being happy now, horrifying vulnerability and all, this is it.
“You don’t get the love without the risk of grief. You don’t get the laughter without the risk of silence. You don’t get the joy without the risk of loss.”
Thank you for this gift, Jamie Varon. May it find all the right people!
And thanks to NetGalley & Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row for access to the ARC!
#CharlieQuinnLetsGo #NetGalley
I’m not proud to admit that I can relate to Charlie Quinn and the fortress she’d built high around her heart in a lot of ways, and I hope her lessons stick with me long term.
If you’re looking for the inspiration to make changes and embrace being happy now, horrifying vulnerability and all, this is it.
“You don’t get the love without the risk of grief. You don’t get the laughter without the risk of silence. You don’t get the joy without the risk of loss.”
Thank you for this gift, Jamie Varon. May it find all the right people!
And thanks to NetGalley & Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row for access to the ARC!
#CharlieQuinnLetsGo #NetGalley
October 11, 2025
I rarely rate a book I finish 1 star (because I'd simply just DNF lol) and I would have rounded up to a 2… if not for the ending.
Charlie's a workaholic who deprives herself of joy, because all joy comes with risk and she'd rather exist than actually LIVE. Because Of Reasons, she goes back home to Los Angeles for the first time in years.
The main hook of the story is Charlie's month of yes: opening herself to new experiences and stepping outside of her comfort zone. While it's technically true that Charlie does learn Her Lesson by the end, it's not the actual reason why.
Also A Choice: so many POV switches. The narration is mostly Charlie in first person, but there are flashbacks that she views as movie scenes in third person. Is it because Charlie is particularly passionate about movies? Not really!
I received a free copy via Netgalley.
Charlie's a workaholic who deprives herself of joy, because all joy comes with risk and she'd rather exist than actually LIVE. Because Of Reasons, she goes back home to Los Angeles for the first time in years.
The main hook of the story is Charlie's month of yes: opening herself to new experiences and stepping outside of her comfort zone. While it's technically true that Charlie does learn Her Lesson by the end, it's not the actual reason why.
Also A Choice: so many POV switches. The narration is mostly Charlie in first person, but there are flashbacks that she views as movie scenes in third person. Is it because Charlie is particularly passionate about movies? Not really!
I received a free copy via Netgalley.
November 26, 2025
3.75 stars
Charlie Quinn Lets Go is the story of what happens when the universe grabs a Type A woman by the shoulders and shakes vigorously. Poor Charlie gets hit with the trifecta of adult misery—job loss, breakup, and food poisoning—all in a single birthday. Honestly, if that isn’t a cosmic sign to reassess your life choices, I don’t know what is.
Watching Charlie slink back to her childhood home and get roped into a month of saying yes is equal parts hilarious and anxiety-inducing (for her and for me). Her free-spirited sister asks for things that would send my inner control freak into cardiac arrest, but the resulting chaos is endearing. Add in her high school crush—now very grown and very swoon-worthy—and suddenly her rigid rules start dissolving faster than her five-year plan.
Jamie Varon delivers a warm, earnest reminder that sometimes "letting go" doesn’t mean your life falls apart—it means it finally has room to expand. Perfect for anyone who secretly enjoys a well-timed meltdown that leads to personal growth…and maybe a little steam.
Charlie Quinn Lets Go is the story of what happens when the universe grabs a Type A woman by the shoulders and shakes vigorously. Poor Charlie gets hit with the trifecta of adult misery—job loss, breakup, and food poisoning—all in a single birthday. Honestly, if that isn’t a cosmic sign to reassess your life choices, I don’t know what is.
Watching Charlie slink back to her childhood home and get roped into a month of saying yes is equal parts hilarious and anxiety-inducing (for her and for me). Her free-spirited sister asks for things that would send my inner control freak into cardiac arrest, but the resulting chaos is endearing. Add in her high school crush—now very grown and very swoon-worthy—and suddenly her rigid rules start dissolving faster than her five-year plan.
Jamie Varon delivers a warm, earnest reminder that sometimes "letting go" doesn’t mean your life falls apart—it means it finally has room to expand. Perfect for anyone who secretly enjoys a well-timed meltdown that leads to personal growth…and maybe a little steam.
October 19, 2025
3.5 stars. Did Charlie Quinn let go or did she have a psychic vision that told her the exact outcome of continuing on her current path and then make an informed decision?
October 20, 2025
I can’t thank The Hive enough for the free copy!
This is one of my favorite books of this year! I couldn’t get enough of this story. It was so powerful and had such a beautiful meaning.
Charlie Quinn has closed herself off from love and all feelings. All she wants to do is work as much as she possibly can. She has put herself in a bland routine with her working hours and eating the same meal every day. One day, everything comes crumbling down, and on her birthday no less. She loses her job and her boyfriend, and on top of that, gets food poisoning from the same dinner she eats every night. She decides to head back home to LA to see her mom and her sister Benny. She hasn’t been home in years.
The dual timelines from the past and present really helped put in perspective why Charlie Quinn was the way she was. Very closed off and not wanting to feel any feelings. I admittedly shed a tear learning why she was so closed off.
While being home, she gives in to her very positive-thinking sister, Benny, and has to say yes for a month! Meaning, she has to say yes to everything. This really opens her eyes to new opportunities in life. She even runs into a past crush, and it turns into something more.
Charlie’s character shows incredible growth throughout the story. It really makes you think about life and opening yourself up.
I will be recommending this book to everyone.
This is one of my favorite books of this year! I couldn’t get enough of this story. It was so powerful and had such a beautiful meaning.
Charlie Quinn has closed herself off from love and all feelings. All she wants to do is work as much as she possibly can. She has put herself in a bland routine with her working hours and eating the same meal every day. One day, everything comes crumbling down, and on her birthday no less. She loses her job and her boyfriend, and on top of that, gets food poisoning from the same dinner she eats every night. She decides to head back home to LA to see her mom and her sister Benny. She hasn’t been home in years.
The dual timelines from the past and present really helped put in perspective why Charlie Quinn was the way she was. Very closed off and not wanting to feel any feelings. I admittedly shed a tear learning why she was so closed off.
While being home, she gives in to her very positive-thinking sister, Benny, and has to say yes for a month! Meaning, she has to say yes to everything. This really opens her eyes to new opportunities in life. She even runs into a past crush, and it turns into something more.
Charlie’s character shows incredible growth throughout the story. It really makes you think about life and opening yourself up.
I will be recommending this book to everyone.
June 7, 2025
I had the pleasure of being able to read and review an ebook advanced reader copy of Charlie Quinn Lets Go by Jamie Varon. This book spoke straight to my soul. As a recovering, over-achieving, anxious perfectionist, I grew up being such a Charlie Quinn—a list, a plan, a goal, a purpose always in mind—a workaholic to the core. But, Charlie, after being laid off, broken up with, and food poisoned on her birthday, goes back to the home she’s been away from for far too long and is convinced by her little sister to agree to a month of “yes.” Charlie sees leaning into the universe and opening up to loving as also an opening up to the potential for disappointment and pain. But in agreeing to saying yes for 30 days, can Charlie dare to hope, to want, to see a path to joy and happiness?
Jamie Varon has penned a heartfelt novel about considering coming into your own and embracing who you are at your core, in the face of fear, in the face of potential disappointment. It makes you ask, in this one precious life, how are you going to spend your days?
The characters are interesting, multidimensional, and have histories that impact the way they perceive the world. Those histories can be devastating at times. There is mention of grief and loss and processing it, so if that is a particular sensitivity for someone as a reader, they may need to be prepared. But, because of all of that, the characters have clear voices and full personalities. These are people you could meet, interact with, love, clash with at times—you could feel them so clearly, including their hang ups, and it made me love them more.
This is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. It truly makes you think about life and what’s the meaning/purpose in it. There are poignant quotes that I highlighted throughout because they struck me so deeply, and this is the kind of book I could see myself reading again and again because of how it made me feel and think about the questions it raises about life.
If this sounds like something you're ready to say yes to, its publication date is September 30, 2025. Its magic is absolutely worth it.
Jamie Varon has penned a heartfelt novel about considering coming into your own and embracing who you are at your core, in the face of fear, in the face of potential disappointment. It makes you ask, in this one precious life, how are you going to spend your days?
The characters are interesting, multidimensional, and have histories that impact the way they perceive the world. Those histories can be devastating at times. There is mention of grief and loss and processing it, so if that is a particular sensitivity for someone as a reader, they may need to be prepared. But, because of all of that, the characters have clear voices and full personalities. These are people you could meet, interact with, love, clash with at times—you could feel them so clearly, including their hang ups, and it made me love them more.
This is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. It truly makes you think about life and what’s the meaning/purpose in it. There are poignant quotes that I highlighted throughout because they struck me so deeply, and this is the kind of book I could see myself reading again and again because of how it made me feel and think about the questions it raises about life.
If this sounds like something you're ready to say yes to, its publication date is September 30, 2025. Its magic is absolutely worth it.
October 11, 2025
Charlie craves security and has colored inside the lines for much of her life, when on her 30th birthday she is abruptly downsized from her corporate job then left by her boyfriend for not being passionate about life and their relationship. She is tightly buttoned-up and suppresses her emotions for fear of being hurt, a state that's been deeply influenced by her flighty mother and absent father. At her younger's sister request, she returns home to her mother and sister and spends a "month of yes," promising to do whatever her sister suggests as a way to open herself to life and happiness. And that's where I got frustrated. As the de facto "fixer" in my own family for the ones who think the universe (aka me) will take care of them no matter what they do, I felt for Charlie and how she turned to control and security at a very young age to counteract her mother's chaos. I wanted Charlie to succeed and make her way to a more balanced life, but for the majority of the book I was aggravated by her mother and sister's attitude towards her and their need for her to change rather than them all taking responsibility and meeting somewhere in the middle. I didn't like the over-arching message that Charlie's feelings (and what some would consider a reasonable reaction to an unstable childhood) were somehow wrong, it felt overly simplistic and judgmental. The dynamic between Charlie and her mother and sister is so problematic, there's a lot of dramatic all-or-nothing thinking happening on all sides. Charlie needed a healthier balance and reconnection with the parts of herself that were emotionally fulfilling, and I kept looking for that in the story but didn't get as much as I'd hoped. We don't get to see them working towards a common middle ground, there's too much blame on all sides and way too much emphasis from her mother and sister about the changes Charlie needs to make, with them not taking much responsibility for her being the way she is. (I especially didn't like the way her mother and sister blamed Charlie's reaction to her mother's whimsical approach to life during Charlie's childhood on the fact that she was an "anxious kid." It was judgy and deflecting. The lifestyle that worked for adults didn't work for the kind of kid Charlie was, and I kept waiting for her mom to take some responsibility that as the adult it was up to her to meet Charlie where she was rather than chalking Charlie's problems up to her anxiety. That didn't really happen.) I was also not a fan of the last 20% of the book, one defining event in particular felt like a cop-out way to resolve everything. And the ending taking place as a prologue 3 years later felt too neat and left the reader out of the healthiest character development that took place in the entire book. (Thank goodness they all got therapy at the end, it was way overdue.) I did like that throughout the book we get glimpses of the past events that caused her to become more guarded of her feelings, it was a great way to add depth. I just wish we'd gotten to see healthier relationship development all around. I liked her relationship with Alex, but even that lacked on-page emotional growth. I don't think I was the right audience for this book, it had a great premise that started out strong and had wonderful potential (and a lot of the "yes" activities were fun). I was hopeful Charlie would get her HEA (and she did), but I just didn't enjoy how the author got her there. This review was based on a complimentary eARC of the book, all opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
The cover of this book would lead the reader to believe that it is a story of someone letting go and living a carefree life. The title also alludes to that. While the main character, Charlie Quinn, does let loose for one month and leads a much freer life than her usual, the story is more than that. I wasn't expecting the depth this story had. It was a pleasant surprise.
This story is about so many things. Heartache, putting up walls, living a safe life, letting go, forgiving. and so much more. This was a well-written story, and I could empathize with Charlie throughout the story. She was an uptight character, but seeing her become a much more carefree version of herself with the help of her sister, Benny, was fun. I liked Benny and her zest for life. I also liked the mom and Alex. The characters were all well-developed and relatable.
I found this story to be very well written. I liked the author's writing style and the way she let the reader know more of Charlie's life through her flashbacks. Sometimes flashbacks can bog a story down for me, but this wasn't the case here. I found there to be just enough to let me know why Charlie was the way she was.
All in all, this was a fun, quick read. I enjoyed my time with the characters and the story. While there are some deeper parts to the story, it was still a light read. One I would definitely recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
This story is about so many things. Heartache, putting up walls, living a safe life, letting go, forgiving. and so much more. This was a well-written story, and I could empathize with Charlie throughout the story. She was an uptight character, but seeing her become a much more carefree version of herself with the help of her sister, Benny, was fun. I liked Benny and her zest for life. I also liked the mom and Alex. The characters were all well-developed and relatable.
I found this story to be very well written. I liked the author's writing style and the way she let the reader know more of Charlie's life through her flashbacks. Sometimes flashbacks can bog a story down for me, but this wasn't the case here. I found there to be just enough to let me know why Charlie was the way she was.
All in all, this was a fun, quick read. I enjoyed my time with the characters and the story. While there are some deeper parts to the story, it was still a light read. One I would definitely recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 1, 2025
A soul-healing, bread-baking, tarot-pulling masterpiece.
Reading Charlie Quinn Lets Go by Jamie Varon felt like sitting in a warm kitchen with an old friend—one who believes in astrology, consults the tarot, and isn’t afraid to whisper hard truths wrapped in poetic brilliance. As a writer myself working on a novel, I was stunned by how often I felt seen by this story. It’s as if the Universe whispered both our books into existence at the same time.
Charlie’s emotional arc felt so vulnerable. Learning to open up in love, working through burnout, searching for herself beneath the masks of achievement—mirrors so many of my own personal and creative struggles. And don't get me started on the food. The butterscotch pudding, the bread, the way food is used to soothe & reconnect? Yes, please. I’m literally prepping a sourdough loaf as I write this.
Lines like “My accomplishments never felt like enough” and “There is so much unspent love inside you…You just use so much energy trying not to feel it” hit like a tuning fork in my chest. This book is emotionally honest and funny—“Buckle up, babes!” is now in my daily vocabulary—and it’s brimming with magic: tarot cards, covens, astrology, & above all, hope.
By the end, I had heart palpitations, tears, & the urge to get a “Charlie Quinn” quote tattoo. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a loop of living a life that looks fine on the outside but is aching on the inside, this book will hold your hand as you figure out how to let go.
Bravo, Jamie Varon. I’ll be talking about this one forever.
Reading Charlie Quinn Lets Go by Jamie Varon felt like sitting in a warm kitchen with an old friend—one who believes in astrology, consults the tarot, and isn’t afraid to whisper hard truths wrapped in poetic brilliance. As a writer myself working on a novel, I was stunned by how often I felt seen by this story. It’s as if the Universe whispered both our books into existence at the same time.
Charlie’s emotional arc felt so vulnerable. Learning to open up in love, working through burnout, searching for herself beneath the masks of achievement—mirrors so many of my own personal and creative struggles. And don't get me started on the food. The butterscotch pudding, the bread, the way food is used to soothe & reconnect? Yes, please. I’m literally prepping a sourdough loaf as I write this.
Lines like “My accomplishments never felt like enough” and “There is so much unspent love inside you…You just use so much energy trying not to feel it” hit like a tuning fork in my chest. This book is emotionally honest and funny—“Buckle up, babes!” is now in my daily vocabulary—and it’s brimming with magic: tarot cards, covens, astrology, & above all, hope.
By the end, I had heart palpitations, tears, & the urge to get a “Charlie Quinn” quote tattoo. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a loop of living a life that looks fine on the outside but is aching on the inside, this book will hold your hand as you figure out how to let go.
Bravo, Jamie Varon. I’ll be talking about this one forever.
August 21, 2025
One of my favourite quotes is “say yes to life, even though it may devour you”. After losing her job, getting broken up with and dealing with a bout of food poisoning (on her 30th birthday no less) Charlie Quinn finds herself back with her younger sister and mom in LA, where her sister convinces her to just say yes.
Yes to a new haircut.
Yes to trying a fab restaurant and ordering everything on the menu.
Yes to Disneyland.
But past heartbreak and trauma makes it tough for Charlie to really lean in and say yes to the love that’s all around her. She’s been wounded before and isn’t willing to get hurt again; Staying guarded and level headed has kept her safe.
I loved Triple Quinn and the second chances theme in this book. There are some really fun secondary characters, especially the excellent women in the Quinn household, and a hot chef. While I couldn’t fully relate to Charlie’s (initial) approach to life, I could definitely resonate with doing everything you can to keep it altogether when surrounded by volatility.
Huge thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Yes to a new haircut.
Yes to trying a fab restaurant and ordering everything on the menu.
Yes to Disneyland.
But past heartbreak and trauma makes it tough for Charlie to really lean in and say yes to the love that’s all around her. She’s been wounded before and isn’t willing to get hurt again; Staying guarded and level headed has kept her safe.
I loved Triple Quinn and the second chances theme in this book. There are some really fun secondary characters, especially the excellent women in the Quinn household, and a hot chef. While I couldn’t fully relate to Charlie’s (initial) approach to life, I could definitely resonate with doing everything you can to keep it altogether when surrounded by volatility.
Huge thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 29, 2025
Charlie Quinn Lets Go was a much deeper read than I anticipated. Tears were also shed, and there were moments when I could relate to Charlie’s rigidity. Her inability to open up and enjoy true happiness trickles into other aspects of her life, including her job, family, and other relationships. I could see how real the progression of her story was. I appreciated how author Jamie Varon intertwined Charlie’s past with specific scenes poignant to why she was the way she was, bringing it all together to a pivotal moment.
I would still consider the story a second-chance romance story as Charlie returns to her hometown and starts a relationship with a guy she had a crush on in High School. However, I also feel that the second chance has a different meaning as it applies to Charlie and her life choices in the way George Bailey had in It’s a Wonderful Life. I enjoyed reading Charlie Quinn Lets Go.
Thank you to @HTPBooks, @htp_hive, @parkrowbooks, and Author @jamievaron for the gifted copy of Charlie Quinn Lets Go. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I would still consider the story a second-chance romance story as Charlie returns to her hometown and starts a relationship with a guy she had a crush on in High School. However, I also feel that the second chance has a different meaning as it applies to Charlie and her life choices in the way George Bailey had in It’s a Wonderful Life. I enjoyed reading Charlie Quinn Lets Go.
Thank you to @HTPBooks, @htp_hive, @parkrowbooks, and Author @jamievaron for the gifted copy of Charlie Quinn Lets Go. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2025
Another excellent book from Jamie Varon. Loving her novel era!
I’m not a big romance fan, but I love a rich, quirky character-forward plot. I really hope I’m half as good a mom as Jackie Quinn someday. Ugh, her patience and whimsy and optimism — I could drink it.
Charlie Quinn, on the other hand. Well, I actually think I’m more like her with my overthinking and stubbornness and melodrama. Sorry, everyone!
Either way, the premise of this book is a ton of fun, and I breezed through it. My biggest complaint is that it comes out in September so most readers won’t get it in time for a beach read.
Already rooting for the Hollywood treatment! It feels like a love story about LA, and I can totally picture the backyard bonfires and picturesque views.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Jamie for an early review copy! I was literally jumping out of my skin in anticipation to read this one.
I’m not a big romance fan, but I love a rich, quirky character-forward plot. I really hope I’m half as good a mom as Jackie Quinn someday. Ugh, her patience and whimsy and optimism — I could drink it.
Charlie Quinn, on the other hand. Well, I actually think I’m more like her with my overthinking and stubbornness and melodrama. Sorry, everyone!
Either way, the premise of this book is a ton of fun, and I breezed through it. My biggest complaint is that it comes out in September so most readers won’t get it in time for a beach read.
Already rooting for the Hollywood treatment! It feels like a love story about LA, and I can totally picture the backyard bonfires and picturesque views.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Jamie for an early review copy! I was literally jumping out of my skin in anticipation to read this one.
September 9, 2025
Charlie Quinn Let’s Go by @jamievaron is an uplifting, heartfelt story that blends humor, heart, and self-discovery in such a refreshing way.
Through some unexpected adventures, Charlie’s worldview quietly shifts: she begins to embrace vulnerability, loosen control, and open up to emotional risk, all while navigating funny, messy, and heartfelt moments with family and old flames alike.
I loved how Jamie captured the messy, beautiful journey of figuring out who you are and embracing it fully. This book felt both fun and empowering, and I couldn’t put it down. This is the perfect, light read if you’re in a reading slump, taking a flight or starting a holiday.
I’m so grateful to HarperCollins for sending me this ARC—it was such a joy to read. And most of all, I’m endlessly proud of my friend Jamie for writing such a bold, inspiring, and unforgettable story.
Through some unexpected adventures, Charlie’s worldview quietly shifts: she begins to embrace vulnerability, loosen control, and open up to emotional risk, all while navigating funny, messy, and heartfelt moments with family and old flames alike.
I loved how Jamie captured the messy, beautiful journey of figuring out who you are and embracing it fully. This book felt both fun and empowering, and I couldn’t put it down. This is the perfect, light read if you’re in a reading slump, taking a flight or starting a holiday.
I’m so grateful to HarperCollins for sending me this ARC—it was such a joy to read. And most of all, I’m endlessly proud of my friend Jamie for writing such a bold, inspiring, and unforgettable story.
June 8, 2025
CHARLIE QUINN LETS GO
Jamie Varon
September 30, 2025
When Charlie Quinn gets fired, her boyfriend dumps her and she gets food poisoning ALL ON HER 30th BIRTHDAY, she decides to leave San Francisco and head home to LA to her mother and sister’s house. Charlie has always been the pessimist in the family with her mom and sister, Benny, the born optimists.
So Benny offers Charlie a deal… say yes to everything Benny says for the next month and see if her joy returns, or was it ever really there.
What follows is a month with some strange occurrences, with a bit of happiness thrown in and maybe even some love…
Not available until the end of September, but definitely one to put on your calendar.
Jamie Varon
September 30, 2025
When Charlie Quinn gets fired, her boyfriend dumps her and she gets food poisoning ALL ON HER 30th BIRTHDAY, she decides to leave San Francisco and head home to LA to her mother and sister’s house. Charlie has always been the pessimist in the family with her mom and sister, Benny, the born optimists.
So Benny offers Charlie a deal… say yes to everything Benny says for the next month and see if her joy returns, or was it ever really there.
What follows is a month with some strange occurrences, with a bit of happiness thrown in and maybe even some love…
Not available until the end of September, but definitely one to put on your calendar.
June 3, 2025
Charlie Quinn lets go is the book I wish I had 5 years ago. As a recovering workaholic myself, I related to everything Chapter 1 Charlie was living: working constantly, needing to check all the boxes, wanting to present a certain way. I loved watching her reconnect with her family and herself as she goes through her "Month of Yes" -- something we should all take time to do ourselves! And, bonus, Jamie really is a fabulous writer; I really felt I was living everything as I was reading it. Highly recommend!!
ARC received via Netgalley
ARC received via Netgalley
June 4, 2025
Jamie has done it again! I devoured this book, and highlighted so many passages. It’s a reminder I needed to focus on finding and embracing joy. Actually *live* life, not just move through the motions.
Read
July 13, 2025If my book friend Megan hasn’t told me I would love this one , I wouldn’t have even heard of it. But she knew I needed a happy story that had a touch of depth as both characters fight their instinct to shut down before they learned to love again.
Bonus it was only 300 pages which means this was a one time sitting love story that was perfect for a disgustingly hot day outside
Bonus it was only 300 pages which means this was a one time sitting love story that was perfect for a disgustingly hot day outside
August 4, 2025
wow i needed this book right at this time of my life SO bad. i am a changed woman!!!!!
quinn canyon nothing will never make me hate you and such a hot romance subplot OMG (this was a masterclass in yearnalism)
quinn canyon nothing will never make me hate you and such a hot romance subplot OMG (this was a masterclass in yearnalism)
June 4, 2025
I was so excited to get an ARC for this one. This novel shows such growth from Varon’s first foray into fiction with Main Character Energy. Fans of her nonfiction (spoiler: I am one) will be delighted to see that her narrative voice is stronger than ever in Charlie Quinn. The real strength of this book is in Varon’s deft hand at crafting a complex family dynamic in Triple Quinn that feels authentic yet still allows for her messaging to shine through. This book is about women, for women, and plays with genre in service of empowering women, both on the page and off. It’s not a typical rom com. It’s not a self-help book. But it is about women claiming their worth and their joy, and Varon doesn’t let you forget it. I came away wanting to know more about the inner lives of the other Quinn women—particularly Benny—whose character feels ripe for a sequel that I very much hope to be able to read one day.
June 5, 2025
Such a fun yet meaningful book!
Jamie Varon has managed to create real and complex characters for so many readers to resonate with! With vivid descriptions, emotional ties, and lots of laughs, this book will easily become a fan fave!
Deep in the heart of Los Angeles, Charlie Quinn and her sister adopt so many traits that siblings of non traditional families can feel connected to. In contrast, their mother, Jackie Quinn showcases a spirited life many people strive to pull from, creating both inspiration yet instability. The twist of their complex relationships (past & present), with the fun of summer, creates a meaningful plot revolving around healing, forgiveness, bonding, and joy.
Being my first Jamie Varon book, I would highly recommend as a perfect quick summer read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Jamie Varon for gifting me an early review copy! Publication date set for September 30, 2025.
Jamie Varon has managed to create real and complex characters for so many readers to resonate with! With vivid descriptions, emotional ties, and lots of laughs, this book will easily become a fan fave!
Deep in the heart of Los Angeles, Charlie Quinn and her sister adopt so many traits that siblings of non traditional families can feel connected to. In contrast, their mother, Jackie Quinn showcases a spirited life many people strive to pull from, creating both inspiration yet instability. The twist of their complex relationships (past & present), with the fun of summer, creates a meaningful plot revolving around healing, forgiveness, bonding, and joy.
Being my first Jamie Varon book, I would highly recommend as a perfect quick summer read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Jamie Varon for gifting me an early review copy! Publication date set for September 30, 2025.
January 10, 2026
When I started I dint know if I was going to enjoy this one.. but as it when on it was good.
May 29, 2025
This book is fantastic. Don’t start it at 10pm like I did or else you will stay up way too late because you can’t put it down.
I saw a lot of myself in both versions of Charlie - the workaholic and the one learning to live the life she wants not the one she thinks society expects her to have. I just wish I had the hot chef too.
I saw a lot of myself in both versions of Charlie - the workaholic and the one learning to live the life she wants not the one she thinks society expects her to have. I just wish I had the hot chef too.
September 30, 2025
I need to know what magic mirror Jamie Varon has because she's now 2/2 for fictional books I couldn't relate more to. I will say the pacing was a bit slow for me, but once I got there, I was THERE. This is a story about finding yourself, accepting that you're deserving of love, second chance romance, a high school sweetheart, family issues and trauma that I was not prepared for.
If you're not a fan of hyper realistic fiction in the sense that they're set around very real past events, let me caution you- the pandemic and shutdowns of 2020 are the catalyst to this wonderful journey for both Charlie and another main character. There's no avoiding it.
If you're not a fan of hyper realistic fiction in the sense that they're set around very real past events, let me caution you- the pandemic and shutdowns of 2020 are the catalyst to this wonderful journey for both Charlie and another main character. There's no avoiding it.
June 5, 2025
CHARLIE QUINN LETS GO BY Jamie Varon (REVIEW): She REALLY Does Need to Let Go...
Charlie Quinn Lets Go
by Jamie Varon
MY Synopsis: Charlie Quinn Lets Go by Jamie Varon is standalone women's fiction novel. The book follows Charlie Quinn, the workaholic who eats the same thing basically every day. Charlie's job doesn't care and her boyfriend has had enough of it. The two both drop her, everyone's changed with the pandemic but Charlie. The premise of the book is pretty unique. Charlie was raised by a chill, follow your dreams mom. Yet turned out to be the most high strung person ever. After her life turns around she decided to come home for a bit and excepts her sister's challenge to say yes to whatever she says.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️ (2.0/5.0)
- Charlie's got some stuff to work on, it's very clear during her breakup with her boyfriend. I found the two "didn't the pandemic change you" in back to back convos unneeded. Idk it's too much pandemic and I've read several pandemic romances so I'm not bias against them.
- Maybe a bit too much of Charlie talking to herself, but that gets better as the book goes on.
- I didn't like Charlie's relationship with her mom. Her mom was a friend first and parent second. But like her mom said, she never once asked Charlie for money, so I found the way she spoke to her really disappointing. I'm so rooting for the mom.
- With all these aspects I didn't like, that's kinda the point. Charlie Quinn NEEDS to let go. I still found the concept enjoyable and wish the writing could hold my attention. I would have DNF'd if I wasn't reviewing this book.
- Pretty decent flashbacks! I usually skip those in books completely, but I was able to read these. Probably because they were short and to the point. And they did add a lot to the story. Then the last one had a crazy plot twist that I LOVED!
- There was a cringe tarrot card reading I couldn't stop rolling my eyes at. I wanted to DNF yet again at this scene.
- The ending with the reveals and good dialogue with the sister saying exactly what we're all thinking was good. But then the REAL ending felt like a different book, was riddled with clichés and was a good way to make her decide to change.
SPICE: 🍦 (0/3)
- Not a big part of this book since it leans more women's fiction over romance.
- The book description says this (the "steamy no-strings romance") is the driving force of Charlie deciding to change.
- Lead up is there but no on paper smutt.
ACCESS: Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the eARC. This book will be released on September 29th 2025.
CLOSING COMMENTS:
- There is too much pandemic talk! You wouldn't know it from the description, but it's very present. If this is an ick for you I'd avoid this book. It's come up in at least five conversations before page 100.
- Speaking of 100 pages in. I've hit page 100/272 and I've still yet to meet the love interest. Which is fine with me but I know not for everyone.
- Feels a bit too childish for women's fiction, but that feels more accurate of a label than romance due to the focus on Charlie's approach to life.
*You can find me on Instagram @rhiannonreads24.7*
Charlie Quinn Lets Go
by Jamie Varon
MY Synopsis: Charlie Quinn Lets Go by Jamie Varon is standalone women's fiction novel. The book follows Charlie Quinn, the workaholic who eats the same thing basically every day. Charlie's job doesn't care and her boyfriend has had enough of it. The two both drop her, everyone's changed with the pandemic but Charlie. The premise of the book is pretty unique. Charlie was raised by a chill, follow your dreams mom. Yet turned out to be the most high strung person ever. After her life turns around she decided to come home for a bit and excepts her sister's challenge to say yes to whatever she says.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️ (2.0/5.0)
- Charlie's got some stuff to work on, it's very clear during her breakup with her boyfriend. I found the two "didn't the pandemic change you" in back to back convos unneeded. Idk it's too much pandemic and I've read several pandemic romances so I'm not bias against them.
- Maybe a bit too much of Charlie talking to herself, but that gets better as the book goes on.
- I didn't like Charlie's relationship with her mom. Her mom was a friend first and parent second. But like her mom said, she never once asked Charlie for money, so I found the way she spoke to her really disappointing. I'm so rooting for the mom.
- With all these aspects I didn't like, that's kinda the point. Charlie Quinn NEEDS to let go. I still found the concept enjoyable and wish the writing could hold my attention. I would have DNF'd if I wasn't reviewing this book.
- Pretty decent flashbacks! I usually skip those in books completely, but I was able to read these. Probably because they were short and to the point. And they did add a lot to the story. Then the last one had a crazy plot twist that I LOVED!
- There was a cringe tarrot card reading I couldn't stop rolling my eyes at. I wanted to DNF yet again at this scene.
- The ending with the reveals and good dialogue with the sister saying exactly what we're all thinking was good. But then the REAL ending felt like a different book, was riddled with clichés and was a good way to make her decide to change.
SPICE: 🍦 (0/3)
- Not a big part of this book since it leans more women's fiction over romance.
- The book description says this (the "steamy no-strings romance") is the driving force of Charlie deciding to change.
- Lead up is there but no on paper smutt.
ACCESS: Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the eARC. This book will be released on September 29th 2025.
CLOSING COMMENTS:
- There is too much pandemic talk! You wouldn't know it from the description, but it's very present. If this is an ick for you I'd avoid this book. It's come up in at least five conversations before page 100.
- Speaking of 100 pages in. I've hit page 100/272 and I've still yet to meet the love interest. Which is fine with me but I know not for everyone.
- Feels a bit too childish for women's fiction, but that feels more accurate of a label than romance due to the focus on Charlie's approach to life.
*You can find me on Instagram @rhiannonreads24.7*
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