Love in the Stacks: A Sweet, Nerdy Romantic Comedy

by Julie Milo

She’s focused on her career, not on the sweet coworker chipping away at the industrial-strength walls around her heart.

Nicole Delaney is eager to make her mark as a librarian at a charming Florida college, but an ambitious, and potentially controversial, project leads her straight into the one thing she’s set on avoiding—romance. When her boss pairs her with the endearingly awkward Adam, a fellow librarian, she’s caught off guard. Adam is thoughtful, steady, and patient; he might be just what Nicole doesn’t know she needs. Though Adam’s heart has been set on Nicole from the beginning, it’s her anxious mind that he needs to win over. As they navigate their growing connection and step outside their comfort zones, both at work and in their relationship, they discover that facing life’s challenges is much easier when you have someone by your side.

Love in the Stacks is a closed door/just kisses, slow burn, workplace romcom featuring two nerdy librarians and anxiety representation.

Genres: Romance, Clean Romance, Fiction

325 pages, Paperback

Published January 19, 2025

About the author

Julie Milo spends most of her time reading and writing. When she’s not reading and writing scholarly stuff for her day job, she’s reading romance, nonfiction, and literary fiction for fun. She writes closed door/kisses only (also called “sweet”) romantic comedies.

Julie was raised, but not born, in Florida where she started dictating stories to her parents before she even knew how to write. By kindergarten she was writing and illustrating picture books and subjecting her classmates to read alouds at school. While the illustrating did not stick (her drawing skills never evolved past about third grade), the writing did, and for most of her childhood, her answer to “What do you want to be when you grow up?” was “an author.” Returning to writing decades later is a dream come true, and Julie is proud to finally be able to call herself an author.

Julie currently lives on the Gulf coast of Florida with her thoughtful husband, two amazing children, and two dogs (one delightful pit bull and one very energetic black lab). She loves dessert and hates cold weather.

Reviews

[Stephanie Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me be the first to warn- when you start this book you need to have time to finish it!! It’s a slow burn 🔥 and I knew that but I just could not wait!! Adam has been crushing on Nicole since he saw her (seriously it’s adorable!) so it’s only right I was dying for the two of them to be together from the beginning. They are both librarians but have very different day to day jobs. He’s silently waiting for her to notice him. When they are thrown together on a project- putting together a graphic novels collection at the library- it seems like the opportunity for Adam to get Nicole to fully see what’s right in front of her.

Adam & Nicole’s love story was full of swoony moments. I don’t want to ruin them for you but the surprise in her office and rescuing her at the convention- two of my favorite moments. 🩷

Tropes:
🔥 Slow Burn
Cinnamon Roll MMC
📚 Workplace Romance (The Library!)
👨 He Falls First & Hard

To give a 5 🌟 rating I have to connect to the side characters and I can say that I’ll be patiently waiting for Molly & Jonathan’s book! (Ok one for Olivia too!)


⚠️ The FMC struggles with anxiety and has a panic attack described on the page, struggling with grief- loss of a loved one, and small details of a past emotionally abusive relationship.

🌶️ No spice- steamy kisses only!!

I should mention this is her debut novel! Show some love to the author and snatch this book!!! 💖💖

*Note: I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun, romantic story with great heart! And it’s a debut novel!

This sweet tale had some great comedic and occasionally awkward moments to firmly place it in the romcom category, however, Nicole and Adam felt like two very real people juggling thoughts and emotions and things from their pasts that were, at times, very serious.

I loved the setting of a library on a university campus. And the pining! Well, I loved the pining!

Adam had been interested in Nicole from the moment she interviewed for her job at the library about a year before the beginning of the book. As the story began, he found himself finally working directly with Nicole, yet every time he felt that he began to get to know her better, she took two steps back and put up a wall. I loved Adam’s patience and the care he showed Nicole as they became friends and then more.

Grief and panic attacks were two of the topics that these two worked through as they were getting to know each other. I loved the slow build of their relationship and the way that when they did finally begin going out with each other, it just felt so right. The first time he held her hand?!? Be still my heart!

I really enjoyed this story and I am so impressed that it is a debut novel. I will point out that there were a few instances that the characters used the Lord’s name in vain. It was not a huge amount, but enough that I noticed it. But while this story brought plenty of swoon worthy moments and romantic attraction, it was a clean with kisses only book. Highly recommend.

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Cherilyn (Cherwhatyouread) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Julie Milo’s debut novel and it is simply incredible.

This book was a delight and full of moments that made feel so many things! Anxiety representation was done so well in this book. Adam did such a phenomenal job helping Nicole through a panic attack.

Nicole and Adam had such a fun dynamic. From coworkers who barely interact to being forced to work together on a project. They got along so well once they started working on the project and Nicole didn’t feel like she was being babysat. Adam had always been interested in Nicole, so it was fun to see him break down her barriers and watch her feelings toward him develop.

Things I loved about this book:
-How Adam fell first and his perspective of Nicole was just so sweet.
-Adam’s memes-imagining them made me laugh
-Nicole’s sisters- they were hilarious and their ability to read Nicole’s feelings.
-Adam’s mom- she was so sweet.
-Nicole was excellent at public speaking which Adam struggled with. Let’s say lessons happened… and there was so much chemistry. 🫠

Favorite Quotes:
Nicole just … sparkles. I’m not even sure how to describe it. It’s like there’s this glow around her and I’m drawn toward her inexorably. Anyway. She’s clearly outside of my orbit. We’re coworkers.

She grins slyly, glancing at Adam. “He’s a very sweet man,” she says. “And handsome. Don’t you think he’s handsome, Nicole?” “Um…” My face feels warm as I decide how to respond. Adam quickly jumps in. “You don’t need to answer.” But I notice a glint of curiosity in his eyes. I throw him a bone. “Of course he is,” I answer Mary honestly. “A man with glasses always looks so distinguished.” I didn’t think Adam’s blush could go any deeper, but at my words, his face is literally crimson. Mary looks smug as she pats his arm. I feel a little smug, too, but I can’t explain why.

“Oh my gosh, Nicole, this is the cutest falling in love story I’ve ever heard.” Molly gushes when I’ve finished. “Pssh,” I protest.

But … I think I like Adam not because he likes me. I think I like him because he’s smart and funny and supportive and interesting and attractive. I think I would like him even if he wasn’t interested in me.

[Kariann Morse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely the cutest, sweetest read! This is a debut novel for Julie Milo and I loved it so much!

The dynamic of two colleagues working through many levels of working together, becoming friends, and blossoming into more was so beautiful!!

This novel was nothing short of amazing. I cried a couple times, laughed out loud, swooned for the MMC, related to both main characters on different levels, smiled to myself many many times, had giddy, excited feelings for Nicole, and absolutely fell in love with this book!

I thought that having anxiety being represented in this novel was so comforting. I struggle with anxiety in real life, so reading about techniques and how it affects others, even fictional characters, made me feel seen.
Julie Milo outdid herself with this novel!! 😄🥹

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for being an ARC reader and gave an honest review! These statements are my own thoughts and feelings 🥰

[Kim Zamolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweetest romcom!

Julie wrote the sweetest story of two ordinary people who fall in love. I love how much the story feels like a real love story - two people falling in love, working together and growing each other for the better. It reminded me of my own love story, which made me love it even more!

💛low angst
💛he falls first
💛anxiety rep
💛dual pov
💛tater tots
💛library love story
💛good communication

[Kelsey Dicou · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐ rounded up

[Maven_Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love in the Stacks by Julie Milo Review

Love in the Stacks by Julie Milo is a cozy, sweet contemporary workplace romance set in the quiet, book-lined halls of a Florida college library, and it made me feel like I was curling up with a warm cup of tea and a favorite novel. The story follows Nicole Delaney, a passionate librarian determined to make her mark with a bold new project, and Adam, a thoughtful, steady colleague who has quietly admired her for ages. When their boss insists they collaborate on Nicole’s controversial graphic-novels initiative, their professional partnership becomes an emotional journey: Nicole, bright and energetic but guarded by anxiety, slowly lets Adam’s patience, genuine kindness, and nerdy charm chip away at the walls around her heart. Their connection unfolds in a slow-burn, closed-door romance that celebrates vulnerability, personal growth, and the comforting magic of shared quiet moments among shelves of books.

What enchanted me most was how the author breathed warmth and authenticity into every scene: Nicole’s quirky confidence and real-world struggles with anxiety, Adam’s steady support and nerdy charm, and the delightful setting among stacks of books created a story that felt genuinely lived-in and heartfelt. I laughed out loud at moments of adorable banter, felt my heart flutter at the slow build of mutual affection, and appreciated how both characters learned to lean on each other without rushing or pressure.

The way the book handles anxiety and personal healing felt sensitive and relatable, making their emotional growth feel rich and sincere rather than just romantic trope. I also adored the supporting cast; Nicole’s sisters, Adam’s mom, and the library coworkers added layers of humor, love, and community that made the story feel like home. While the pacing is unhurried and the romance takes its sweet time to arrive, that slow-burn charm made each step toward connection feel all the more satisfying. Love in the Stacks is a delightful debut that made me smile, sigh, and root for these lovable, nerdy librarians to find something truly meaningful together.

Rating: 3 out of 5
Because the tender slow-burn, heartfelt emotional growth, and warm, quirky characters made this a truly cozy romance.

[Megan | Reads Alotl Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was adorable. Obviously, as a reader, I love that it took place between two librarians. I loved how the author was able to take some very real things like anxiety and depression and make them workable into the story and characters. It felt real. I absolutely adored that Adam was willing to help her through her things, even though she didn’t want anybody to know or help her, even as a friend. He was willing to be her friend, even though he was interested and that was the sweetest of all.

“She radiated an energy I had never felt before. Optimistic. Passionate. Confident. I couldn’t take my eyes off her.”

Things I Loved:
-Buc-ees (I need to find one closer to me)
-He falls first….like at first sight
-She’s anxious, but she kills it at presenting to crowds
-Nicole teaching Adam techniques for presenting
-The Memes….all of them. Adam is so adorably nerdy and I loved it!
-Graphic novels for college
-Her sisters and his mom, so great!
-Co-workers…but never acting on it at work 😉
-Nerdy librarian calendar….??
- A library kissing scene…100% a fantastic

“My pulse slows, and her heartbeat matches the pace. And then we’re quiet, hearts beating together in a steady rhythm.”

I love how the characters developed and their relationships with others. It was easy to relate to them and felt it could happen to anyone. Nicole and Adam worked so well together on their library project, but their car trip and relationship also worked well and showed a different side to both of them.

“I think I like Adam not because he likes me. I think I like him because he’s smart and funny and supportive and interesting and attractive. I think I would like him even if he wasn’t interested in me.”

“My heart aches with the need to be there for her like this, be this person for her, always.”

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very cute rom com with some great laugh-out-loud moments for debut by indie author, Julie Milo. Librarians Nicole and Adam are definitely a cute, nerdy combo and it was wonderful to read this book, mostly set in a college library. These two are tasked with working together to get their college's library to feature Graphic Novels, an idea Nicole had to enhance library learning.

As they work together, they both learn a lot about themselves and about each other in the process. There is a great supporting cast of secondary characters that includes work colleagues, family and friends. The anxiety that Nicole experiences is something that anyone with anxiety can relate to. She also has trauma from past relationships to work through that may be relatable to anyone that has gone through bad past relationships goes through on her own path to true love.

I haven't been reading a lot of indie ARC's lately but this one had me interested from the blurb on Instagram and it surely delivered a great story. It was enjoyable, funny, heartwarming and just an overall great read. This is a clean fiction read with just a bit of kissing but lots of heart. It's suitable for ages 16+.

Thank you to Julie for an opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Smiley_Kylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This nerdy library romance has my heart!

Nicole works at a college library is excited to officially propose and launch her passion project. She is disappointed when her boss assigns Adam to work with her on the project to keep her reigned in. Adam is the quiet and steady to Nicole's driven and quirky, and they both come to realize they can learn a lot from each other.

I think my favorite thing about this book is that the characters feel like real people: they have their issues, they're not classically hot but attractive in their own ways, they're fun and perfectly nerdy. Honestly, they seem like the type of people I would enjoy being friends with, and I couldn't help but root for them. It's a slow burn, and I felt giddy right alongside them when they finally held hands for the first time! I'm a sucker for a good hand holding scene! 🤝🏼💕🤌🏼 I also loved recognizing some of the Florida locations and vibes!

More to Love:
📚 Memes to Flirt
📚 Library Kiss
📚 Coworkers to Friends to More
📚 Dual POV

Huge thank you to the author for a copy of the book! The paperback is available now and the ebook will be available January 22!

💕: kissing
⚠️: anxiety rep, past death of parent, past relationship trauma

4.5/5 ❤️

[Cassie Lynch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love in the Stacks was so cute! This book felt to me the way that fake documentary shows (The Office, Parks & Rec, Brooklyn 99) feel. It’s a very ordinary setting (hello university library) with very ordinary people and there’s something relatable and comfortable about that that makes you want to keep reading. Read if you’re looking for…

💥 Workplace romance
💥 Quirky characters
💥 FMC who has been through a lot and is learning how to not let that stop her from living 💥 MMC that has his life together in a way that makes you feel like this is going to be a very secure person to love
💥 MMC’s mom who loves the MMC for who he is but wants to make sure he also gets out and lives life
💥 Two people who have their own struggles and fight their own battles (metaphorically obviously this is a book about librarians) but are thankful for the other being by their side along the way
💥 Hilarious sisters who I’ll be shocked if they don’t end up with books of their own
💥 He falls first
💥 Slowwwwwwwwwww burn
💥 Steamy kisses, but closed door!

CW: Past de@th of a loved one, anxiety, panic attacks

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love in the Stacks is the best indie published book I’ve read so far. It’s very well written and has a good flow, though Milo could sprinkle in a bit more humor here and there. The characters are well developed, especially Adam. I didn’t really connect with Nicole, but I’m not sure why. Perhaps she comes across as a little self-absorbed (e.g., not properly thanking Adam when he drives her)? The pacing was a bit slow, with a lot of information on the library and its workings, and the characters telling us about themselves (dual POV). So in the first 20%, there’s very little going on. The reason why Nicole doesn’t want to date Adam at first could’ve been mentioned sooner. Also, what happens in the epilogue comes a little soon time-wise.

To be honest, I like a more exciting plot, but I knew going in that this wasn’t it. So it’s exactly as advertised, and for a cosy/clean read, it’s perfect! A sweet, realistic love story, and a must-read for everyone who loves libraries!

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was drawn to this book for the premise of two librarians falling in love. I mean, I love all things bookish, especially when a book is about bookish things or people. So I knew I had to read this one. It was so adorable, but also more than that. Julie does a great job of representing anxiety and panic attacks in the main female character. I have struggled with both before, and while no two people’s experiences are the same, it was represented very realistically.
Adam was the perfect nerdy book boyfriend. The way he helped Nicole through her panic attack without judgment and took time to research and learn about her conditions was so perfect.
This book touched my heart in so many ways. I’m so grateful Julie trusted me with the ARC for her first book.

Oh and do yourself a favor and download the bonus epilogue when you’re done. You won’t regret it!

[Alicia (aliciasalwaysreading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

CONTENT
-🤬: 1 "hella", a couple religious exclamations
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: loss of parent (past), toxic past relationship

This is a sweet story. I read book two first, and I didn't like this one as much as I did the second one. I didn't feel as much of a connection to these characters. It's not bad by any means, but it just didn't hook me.

Favorite Quotes:
-"Nothing matches the joy I feel from reading a book with a guaranteed happily ever after."

-“One thing I’ve observed in life,” he says, “is that often the people with the hardest defenses are the ones most worth knowing."

-This gets my attention. She has an actual, thought-out list of fantasy make out spots? Yeah, I’m going to need more information about that immediately.

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5- rounded up to 4

A very unique debut novel! I've never read a nerdy, sweet rom com and this was a refreshing take on the same plot lines we see. The anxiety representation was well done, even if slightly repetive. the 3rd act breakup you thought was coming was different and I liked it a lot.

I was really close to a solid 4 stars, but the only hard part for me was the first person writing and each main character having their own unique personalities. They were different in character traits, but the writing style stayed the same from chapter to chapter so I often forgot whose POV I was reading from and had to be reminded.

I look forward to seeing what Julie writes next!

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book and thought it was cute and quirky. The book is about 2 librarians from different departments are set to work together on a project when the other secretly harbors a crush. The central plot is about the value of using graphic novels as a learning tool for students. They showed how they help the students learn the topics through a non traditional path.
The book had a good representation of anxiety and depression and showed it in its true form and allowing the person who has it to deal with it in their way and have their partner there to support them .
The banter was adorable throughout and loved seeing them progress from work colleagues to more .

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

So dang sweet. I will take a kind, patient, considerate MMC like Adam over all of the broody, growly, emotionally unavailable MMCs that seem to be so popular. Adam liked Nicole forever, but he never pushed her. He just got to know her and became friends with her. He actually cared about her as a person and wanted what was best for her. Nicole’s struggle with anxiety was relatable and I love how she slowly opened up to Adam. Those moments where she denied her feelings were filled with such good tension. They really brought the best out of each other. I loved this one and I loved the next one in the series as well!

[Lindsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a bit slow moving for me. I think I read 2-3 books in the time I read this one.
I don’t think it deserves three stars but I don’t know if I would give it a full 4 stars either.
It was good with good representation for anxiety and panic attacks.
I enjoyed the characters and the families.
I’m not super into comic books but I learned new things about libraries and how things are done.
I’m glad for the epilogue but I honestly felt like it was a little early. The FMC even said that their first date wasn’t even a year ago….

[Kiera Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! This book 😍😍😍 I couldn’t put it down! Had work and life not got in the way I would’ve finished this so fast! 🤪
Had me smiling. Giggling. Swooning. Such a cute story!! I loved the characters! They are so cute!! I loved how Adam was a “nerd” and Nicole was edgy ish, unique. Adam had a pup named Joan (Joan of arc 😊) I loved her so much too! Loved the story! I have no words right now! 🥰🥰

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book!!! Adam has been crushing on Nicole for awhile but thanks to a traumatic past relationship, Nicole isn't looking to date. The friendship that forms between the two is adorably perfect and the chemistry is evident. There are books that feel rushed and there are books that feel drawn out... this one was neither! It was well developed and a perfect read for when you want something light and feel good-y. Cannot wait to see what's next from Julie Milo!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be the most realistic romance I've read!
These two are awkward, have real fears and dreams and struggle with some very real things. Plus, one has an affinity for sour candy, and the other likes to dress in tune with her feelings. When the two pair up for a big library project, they're forced together -- and it's just what they need. Add a road trip with a flat tire, a stop at Buc-cee's and a shared love of books. 10/10 recommend.

[Sharon the Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I could not resist this book! I mean, 2 librarians falling in love IN the library?!!? Best setting for a book. (No bias here)

Adam is quiet, a bit on the stuffy and proper side, loves his routine, and following rules. He embraces his nerdy reputation.

Nicole has purple hair, is very outgoing, and is very passionate about her job as a librarian. She does want to buck the stereotype of the cardigan wielding librarian. She also suffers from some serious anxiety which no one would guess with her bubble personality.

They are assigned to work on a special project programs and it starts out a little rocky. As they get to know each other opinions change as do feelings…at least drone of them.

Fun, nerdy, sweet, and warm. I love his reaction to her panic attacks and anxiety. And a dog named Joan is just what every story needs.

[Natscleanreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great debut novel

Julie does a wonderful job writing her first novel. Well done!

Set in the world of two academic librarians, Adam and Nicole grow and learn to be vulnerable with each other.

There are about 5 swears (using God's name in vain), very limited alcohol consumption, and level 2 descriptive kissing that mentions the tongue.

[Charity · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good debut novel. I didn't feel emotionally connected to the characters, but I think too many details that bogged the story down a little derailed me. I do look forward to watching this author grow.

~there were a few uses of the Lord's name in vain and I think 1 cuss word.~

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

[Mallory Bolick · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you Julie Milo for the arc! such a sweet read! i enjoyed reading this wonderful debut novel and can’t wait to see how this new author flourishes with every book she reads! congrats on your first book! if you want workplace romance, kiss in the library, buc-ees, and librarians falling in love read this book!

[LaDawn Everett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I found myself thinking that "I'll stop at the end of this chapter and go to bed". Then when I got to the end of the chapter "I'll just read one more chapter", until suddenly I was at the end. The author hinted that there will be more books with some of the other characters in the future. I sure hope so!!!

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Debut novels make me so happy. Really. I am just so proud of them for writing a book, I can only imagine how cool it is for someone to read what you write, make that dream come true. Well done, Julie Milo, well done.

If you like books, memes, absolutely adorable MMCs, graphic novels, slow burn, and road trips, read this one! It's adorable on all levels and I loved reading it.

[Shannon Binegar-Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love in the Stacks

As an avid reader I adore everything about this book. I loved the character dynamic. I admit I did have to Google the meaning of Adams shirt. I am so curious to learn more about about the surprise guest and Thanksgiving dinner with Nicole's family. Hopefully we will get that explanation in book two.

[Nupur · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute cozy story about a librarian. Yes you heard it right. But it's far from boring. A wonderful tale with falling in love slowly and naturally is detailed in such beautiful way. And happy endings are my favourite.

[Elizabeth Aguayo · Rating 5 out of 5]

fun read

I read this book in two days. One of the best books I’ve read in a while. Hit some serious topics about anxiety and gave helpful suggestions to overcome panic attacks, while still being fun and witty. Loved the puns and Buc-ee’s and Gilmore Girl references.