If the Stars Align

Dramatic Hearts Club #1

by Nathalie Theodore

Sometimes love is written in the stars. Sometimes the universe has other plans.

Sunny and Dex have been best friends since childhood. But beneath their picture-perfect exteriors lie secrets that could tear them apart—or bring them closer than ever.

A lifelong people-pleaser, Sunny can’t tell her demanding mother that she dreams of writing romance novels instead of going to law school. Only Dex knows all her secrets—except that she’s been madly in love with him for years. But her mother doesn’t approve of Dex, and loving him might cost Sunny the only family she's ever known. Plus, what if he doesn’t feel the same?

Oliver “Dex” Dexter has it all: looks, talent, and charm. A gifted actor, he’s destined for stardom. Yet behind his dazzling façade, anxiety threatens to unravel everything. Only with Sunny can he truly be himself—but will she still want him if she discovers the truth?

As their feelings intensify and boundaries blur, Sunny and Dex find themselves caught between the expectations of others and their deepest desires. Will their love be strong enough to withstand the pressure? Or will the masks they wear become the very things that drive them apart?

IPPY Award Winner – Bronze Medal in Romance, 2025

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary Romance

406 pages, Paperback

First published March 3, 2025

About the author

Nathalie Theodore is the Amazon bestselling, IPPY award-winning author of If the Stars Align and If My Wishes Came True, Books One and Two in the Dramatic Hearts Club series. A lawyer-turned-therapist and novelist, she writes love stories that dive deep into the psychology of her characters, using her background in mental health to create beautifully flawed, true-to-life protagonists. In addition to writing, she enjoys spending time with her family in their hometown of Chicago; catching up on sleep; and when the latter invariably fails, caffeinating. Follow her on Instagram (@nathalietheodorewrites) for the latest updates.

Reviews

[Ginny Vann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. I really got into the story of Sunny and Dex. My favorite character was definitely Dex! It brings mental illness to the forefront. I can relate to both Dex and Sunny in different ways. I suffer from Anxiety and I have had Panic attacks, and for Sunny was in a very emotional abusive relationship that I had to get away from. It was beautifully written and I can’t wait read book 2.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.

Before I dive into all that I love about this book, I'm going to throw it out there - I HATED Sunny for hurting Dex repeatedly thanks to the miscommunication and her falling victim to her own insecurities. I hated how many times he was let down and abandoned. He needed to be seen, not abandoned - BUT I'll chalk that up to inexperience and let it go.

Now that I've gotten that off my chest, I can share all that I love about this book.

Dexter is the SWEETEST man from beginning to end. My heart broke for him repeatedly as he dealt with the heartbreak, his fears, and his struggles. I absolutely loved Dexter creating the life he desperately needed for himself. Watching him fight for himself, for his needs, and finally taking the initiative to ask for help was a moment of pure joy. I cried with him, I cried for him, and then I laughed because the relief was such a wonderful feeling that I had to let the emotion pour out of me. There was even some kicking of the feet thrown in for good measure. I adore him for his honesty, for his openness, and for having the courage to voice his needs. Also, his parents are absolutely wonderful! There was nothing to dislike about them. They are supportive and understanding. Awesome example to follow for their son.

I loved that Sunny was intelligent and career-driven. Her courage was a breath of fresh air. When she finally opens her eyes and realizes that she's choosing awful partners for herself, I literally kicked my feet with glee. I was through the roof when she FINALLY put herself first. I loved watching her chase after her dream. Getting to see her repair her relationship with her mother was beautiful. Being able to watch her come into her own and finally find the courage to let the man she's loved for her entire life and whose loved her for his entire life know that she's ready to authentically love him was genuinely epic. Her character grew and matured so much throughout the story, and I enjoyed every minute of it (even if I did want to strangle a couple of the people in her life from time to time).

This story will stay with me for a long time. It made me feel as if I was reliving some aspects of my own first love. It made me nostalgic for that version of me. It made me remember how it felt. The good, the bad, the beautiful, and the ugly of it all. It also made me feel seen. I loved that this story didn't follow a regular run-of-the-mill romance novel timeline. The way it's written gives it a more authentic feel. They start off as teens in high school, and we get to watch them both succeed and fail as individuals and as a couple. They each have flaws and fears, worries, passions, and dreams. We get to watch both characters grow and evolve. Their story reminded me that love is never going to fit neatly into a box. Instead, it's going to demand that you let in the messy and the chaos as well as the calm within the storm. Dexter and Sunny will live rent-free in my mind forever. ❤️

I am definitely going to keep an eye out for more books written by Nathalie Theodore.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up!

Read this in a day! The title says it all. This had so much angst while so frustrating to read the characters suffer through a decade of not genuinely being happy was heartbreaking. If you have read Love Letter to Whiskey - same angst and frustrating vibes for the characters. Dex and Sunny were always end game. Sometimes you need to let life run its course to get there, it might not be pretty but once you reach the end, when the Stars Align, it will be worth everything.

An angsty journey of growth and experiences. However, both Dex and Sunny fail to communicate!! Is it a miscommunication trope if there isn't communication? It was so hard to get through knowing if they simply expressed themselves from the beginning they wouldn't have gone through all the hurt that they went through. But of course, that is the premise of their story. Their chemistry was off the charts, the solace they found in one of another, overall it was a really good read. I genuinely thought it was going to leave me on a cliffhanger and I was getting closer to the end and Dex was no where in sight!

For a debut novel - Nathalie hit the nail on head achieving the childhood-friends-to lovers, angst, and emotion.

Thank you, Netgalley for my copy of an e-Arc.

[Kayla Max · Rating 5 out of 5]

If The Stars Align is a refreshing and remarkable debut by Nathalie Theodore. Told through interwoven timelines, we follow the lives of Dex and Sunny as their friendship and love is tested over decades. An emotional and unforgettable love story about opportune timing and fate. One of my favorite literary couples ever created. I thoroughly was immersed from start to finish!

[Nathalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This refreshing love story is a charming antidote to today’s dating culture of ghosting and fleeting “situationships.” With heartfelt nostalgia and tender vulnerability, it brings back the kind of romance that feels real—messy, hopeful, and worth rooting for. In a world that often feels jaded, this book dares to believe in lasting connection. A beautifully modern reminder that true romance isn’t dead—it’s just been waiting for the right story.

[Maria Colella · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Notebook-loving heart loved this book! It was sort of epic how it follows these two characters through high school and college and beyond, holding your breath for their paths to merge. Both a coming of age story and a romance that felt very raw and real. Highly recommend!

[Renae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Written in the Stars Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

It’s natural to reflect on life’s “what-ifs,” especially when it comes to first love. If The Stars Align beautifully explores this theme through the story of Sunny and Dex, childhood best friends from Ohio who have secretly loved each other since they were five years old. Despite their deep bond, life takes them in different directions after high school, setting the stage for a decade-long journey of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.

Sunny, the only child of a single mother, finds solace in Dex (Ollie Dexter) and his warm, welcoming family. Her love for him feels inevitable, yet fear holds her back from ever confessing it. Driven by her mother’s high expectations, she pursues academic excellence, leading her to college and eventually law school. Meanwhile, Dex—charismatic and effortlessly charming—heads to UCLA to chase his dreams of acting, eventually becoming a beloved soap opera star before making his mark in Hollywood.

Spanning ten years, If The Stars Align follows Sunny and Dex as they navigate an intense, on-again, off-again romance, always seeming to miss the right timing. As they grapple with personal struggles and mental health battles, they gradually learn to embrace their true selves and fight for the love they deserve. Their journey culminates in a spectacular and deeply satisfying conclusion.

A compelling and heartfelt read, this novel will have you rooting for Sunny and Dex every step of the way, eager to see love triumph against all odds.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book ruined my life. Please go read it immediately. 🥲

[Parissa Andideh · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the Stars Align

If The Stars Align is a heartfelt romance novel that takes readers on an emotional journey through the intertwined lives of Dex and Sunny. Written from both of their perspectives, the story spans their friendship from high school to college and into adulthood, keeping readers guessing whether their love is truly meant to be. The dual narrative is a refreshing glimpse into both sides of a love story. With its blend of humor, emotion, and relatable characters, this book is perfect for romance enthusiasts or anyone looking for an engaging escape into a beautiful tale of connection and destiny.

[Emily Katz · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the Stars Align is a captivating romance story about Sunny and Dex, two lovable characters for whom you're rooting to find love. The writing is authentic and draws you into their love story, leaving you unable to put the book down. You feel as if you're right there with the characters. The author does a wonderful job weaving the two perspectives of Sunny and Dex into the book as they both navigate relationships, family, careers and growing up. I love the integration of mental health, its stigma and struggles into the book as well. This steamy, heartwarming romance will not disappoint!

— EMILY GIGER, GOODREADS REVIEWER

[Divya Mathur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sunny and Dex have loved each other for years. Written with a dual perspective, the author shows the many ways they’ve missed one another over the years - difficulty in communicating, challenges in showing their messy and vulnerable sides, making assumptions about what the other wants, etc.

The author has a background in law and therapy and an interest in romance novels so it’s safe to say she put a lot of herself in her debut book.

It was a very quick read and you knew we’d eventually get there but it was lovely to see the love they held on to every step of the way.

[Sarah Kooperman · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the Stars Align is a sweet romance with a heavy side of spice! This is a great beach read that will have you rooting for both Dex and Sunny! I was captivated from beginning to end. While this book is a love story it also deals with a handful of heavier topics that everyone can relate to (single parent, mental health, generational trauma) thus adding some great substance underlying the story. The author did a great job with character development. I can't wait for the sequel!

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't had a book make me feel so much in a long time. What a stellar debut novel. If the Stars Align spans over a decade following Sunny and Dex, childhood best friends who have been in love with each other their whole lives but it's only a secret to them. Somehow, the timing is never right for them and something or someone always gets in the way. Sunny struggles as a chronic people pleaser with an overbearing trauma surgeon mother who is never home, and Dex is plagued by crippling anxiety and had never been able to be his true self with anyone but Sunny. As we watch them grow into adults and all of the struggles that comes with entering the real world. we watch Dex and Sunny go through all of the ups and downs of life including hook-ups, break ups, career breakthroughs and struggles, toxic relationships, and learning how to overcome their own fears, trauma, and mental battles as they fight to come out on the other side together. Maybe one day, if the stars align, they can finally have the life together they've always wanted.

I really love how Nathalie Theodore explored mental health in her debut novel. It was really hard to read at some parts, Sunny and Dex experiencing emotional and mental trauma in real time, but that's really the point of the book and a testament to the author's talent. It was so real and hits close to home and I felt the loss, love, anxiety, sadness, and frustration right along with them. I don't want to spoil anything because you'll have to read it to find out, but I love how the author handled the characters overcoming their mental struggles, even the side characters, and it wasn't cheesy or cliche, it was so gratifying! After I finished the book, it affected me the rest of the night and I couldn't get it off my mind. I really loved it and it'll be a novel I remember for a long time.

My only complaint would be that I wish we could have explored Sunny's healing a little bit more and seeing her learn to be her own person. For her situation, I feel like it would take much longer to reach the point she did and it seemed a bit sudden, but was still satisfying to read regardless. I look forward to future novels by the author!

I recommend this book for people who like friends to lovers, exploring mental health and how it affects daily life, romance, rocky relationships and drama, some spice, and coming of age stories.

[Geeky Bookers - Ilaria · Rating 2 out of 5]

✨ I was attracted to this book because it reminded me a bit of Where Rainbows End by Cecelia Ahern, one of my favourite books as a teenager. The plot seemed similar: childhood friends, a slow-burning romance, and the chance for something heartfelt to grow out of friendship. I wasn’t expecting it to be the same, but I hoped for warmth, humour, and some character growth. Instead, it felt heavier and more intense than I expected.

🎭 The overall tone of the book is very dramatic, which makes sense, since the series is called Dramatic Hearts Club. Still, for me, it sometimes tipped into being too much. Every conflict felt heightened, every emotion at full volume. If you enjoy stories that lean into intensity and drama, you’ll probably appreciate that. But personally, I found it exhausting at times and wished for a bit more lightness to balance things out.

⏳ I also felt the story dragged in places, especially toward the end. By the last 10%, I found myself skimming just to finish. Some chapters really could have been trimmed, they didn’t add much and just made the pace feel unnecessarily slow.

🧠 The author, who’s a therapist, touches on important topics like anxiety, abandonment, toxic relationships, and narcissism. I appreciated that, but it often felt shallow.
⚠️ Spoiler: The mother’s storyline is a big example: she’s difficult for most of the book, then marriage and therapy suddenly change her. Change is possible, but it felt too neat, too quick. More broadly, therapy is sometimes treated like a quick fix, which oversimplifies real-life struggles.

👥 The protagonist’s friendships also fell flat. Almost every conversation is about Sunny, so side characters barely have any depth. We learn a little about Mia, but most of the friends exist only to reflect Sunny’s problems, which makes those relationships feel hollow.
⚠️ Spoiler: Character growth does happen, but mostly at the very end... Sunny decides to pursue writing, and Dex finally starts therapy. After a decade-long story, I wished we’d seen smaller steps along the way, not just one big reveal at the end.

🕰 ⚠️ Spoiler: The timeline also felt off. The story begins in 1998 and finishes in 2008, with an epilogue in 2010. End of spoiler ⚠️. Since the book was released in 2025, I expected the story to carry us closer to the present. Maybe this choice is linked to the series (the second book follows another character we meet here), but even so, it felt unfinished. I would have loved at least a glimpse of Sunny and Dex’s lives today.

🌶 As for the romance... I don’t mind explicit content, and I’ve enjoyed it in books like Outlander, where it adds depth to the relationship. Here, though, there was too much, often feeling unnecessary and heavy-handed (I’d rate the spice level 3/5). Combined with the dragged-out chapters, it made the book feel bloated.

⭐ In the end, I really wanted to love this book. The premise was strong, and there were moments I enjoyed, but the constant drama, surface-level handling of serious topics, shallow friendships, and frequent sex scenes left me disappointed. I started hoping for 4 stars, dropped to 3 midway, and by the end, I feel it deserves 2 stars.
I won’t be continuing with the sequel, since it follows another character from this book, and I’m not invested enough to keep going.

[Courtney ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

If the Stars Align is an addictive romance story written in 2 POV’s. Our FMC is Sunny, who has a complicated upbringing and a mother expecting too much from her. And Dex is an aspiring actor who battles with anxiety throughout the book.
Our main characters are childhood best friends who both are in love with each other however this isn’t communicated straightaway.
The story is told through 3 decades, in which we see the Sunny & Dex try and navigate a relationship multiple times whilst also trying to live out their ‘dream careers’ they both have multiple relationships and some relationships are quite tough to read.
In the end, so the stars actually align for Sunny & Dex?

I absolutely loved this book. I thought the mental health rep was done so good and does show the realness of anxiety. The book also covered topics like unhealthy relationship with parents and trying to live up to their expectations as well as unhealthy relationships with food. Which again, we’re spoke about gently and sensitively.
I did struggle with how many times the characters broke up and got back together however towards the end of the book I do realise that this needed to happen. I also found the pacing to be quite fast and things were slightly brushed over, but this did suit the style of the story.
It’s a gorgeous love story & definitely unique. I loved the relationships with friends throughout the story and just the relationship between our main characters in general was perfect. I never stopped rooting for them.

If you are wanting a gorgeous love story, I highly recommend this one!

Out 3 March 2025!

Thank you to Nathalie & NetGalley for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book!

I’m excited to read more from Nathalie & this series ☺️

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Written in the Stars Press for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review <3

404 pages, 137 highlights, and 39 notes later, my main takeaway from If the Stars Align is that I don’t think I’ve read a romance that felt like this before.

This is as much a love story about Sunny as an individual and Dex as an individual as it is about the two of them as a couple. The layers to Sunny and Dex’s story were crafted beautifully. I felt like I was on the roller coaster right there with them. Dual POV was the only choice for this book–Nathalie Theodore blends both perspectives at just the right time to really pack a punch.

For the first few chapters I had to remind myself that Sunny and Dex were 18-21 years old. I found myself thinking “Can we please use our adult communication skills” a few times, but I snapped out of it pretty quickly.

Ultimately, I don’t make a habit of staying up until almost 4 A.M. to finish a book the way I did with this one, but I would’ve read 100 more pages if it meant seeing more of their personal healing journeys (even if I don’t think my heart would’ve recovered if I had). And I’ll pull an all-nighter for however many books are in this series for however long Nathalie Theodore keeps writing them.

TLDR: just read it!! friends to lovers, it’s always been you, dual POV. Please check content warnings before reading.

[Faithe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could tell I would love If the Stars Align by Nathalie Theodore by the time I was a few pages in! If your relationship is meant to be, then it will be right?

The book begins in the spring of '98 from Sunny's point of view. She is in love with her best friend Oliver Dexter or "Dex". She has also been accepted to UCLA, so they can be together after high school. But when Sunny goes to tell Dex she finds him kissing another girl and her heart is broken. That single moment, changes the course of her future.

Different school, different major, different guy. Despite the string of guys she dates, getting quite series and even engaged, her heart always lies with Dex. They see each other on breaks from school but it never seems to work out. One will be in a relationship, or they will both be single but then one can't commit fully, or the long distance keeps them apart.

Told from alternating points of views, the story explores if two star crossed lovers are truly meant to be, if they keep coming back to each other, they will eventually be right? maybe if the stars align.

Huge thank you to Nathalie for working with NetGalley. I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll start with there are a few spoilers and I don't want to give away too much.
I was rooting hard for Dex and Sunny's throughout the whole book. Even if her mom didn't like him. Every time they would break-up I am like c'mon just try. I found myself truly invested in Sunny and Asher's relationship, when they parted ways I was genuinely saddened, I adored his character and the gentle, kind heart he possessed. His cooking skills were an added delight, a true rarity among men. Then Jeremy, her friend, entered the scene. Oh Jeremy, the epitome of confidence and charisma. Sunny may not have seen the attraction, even when Sam pointed it out, but I sensed it and when he kissed her, I was screaming, even if it was just a cheek. This book was recommended to me by a book group and I'm so glad I gave it a shot. As someone who doesn't typically read romance novels, I was pleasantly surprised. Nathalie Theodore is a brilliant writer, weaving a captivating story. I eagerly anticipate reading another book written by the talented Nathalie!

[Sabrina Mordini · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me on an emotional journey through ten years of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Sunny and Dex, childhood best friends, share a connection that is both beautiful and heartbreaking. While the story follows some familiar romance tropes, it also subverts them—showing that love isn’t always enough and that sometimes, personal growth has to come first.

I appreciated how the book tackled mental health, particularly how anxiety affects relationships. Dex’s struggles are subtly woven into the narrative, showing the importance of seeking help. Meanwhile, Sunny shines as a protagonist—resilient, realistic, and willing to fight for herself, even when love seems impossible.

This isn’t a typical romance; it’s raw, real, and unpredictable. If you love stories about deep emotions, messy relationships, and characters who feel like real people, this book is a must-read. Plus, there’s a bit of spice—but it’s all about emotional connection rather than just physical attraction.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this as an ARC. I am so happy to be able to read this before it comes out.

This book was a unique book that I have read. It follows a timeline of these two people and tells the story of how they end up together. What is unique is it's not just straight forward they met fell in love and are now together. I loved seeing hardships and things that average people actually go through.

I laughed, was frustrated at times and also cried multiple times during this book. The background you learn about the characters and the growth that each of them go through is amazing. The fact that you get pieces of their child hood and then grow with them is amazing. I honestly can't wait to see where this series goes.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If The Stars Align is a moving and emotionally rich romance that follows the lives of Dex and Sunny as they navigate love, friendship, and personal growth from high school through adulthood. Told through their alternating perspectives, the dual narrative adds depth and authenticity, allowing readers to truly understand both sides of their complicated relationship. What sets this novel apart is its honest portrayal of mental health struggles—particularly through Dex’s journey—which is handled with compassion and realism, giving the story a deeper emotional resonance. With its heartfelt blend of humor, vulnerability, and deeply relatable characters, this is a perfect read for romance lovers and anyone seeking a meaningful story about love, resilience, and finding your way.

[Kiana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this from a Goodreads giveaway (shocked me to my core).

As someone who hates second chance romances, this one was cute. I enjoyed watching them struggle through the years to get to the end instead of it magically being a happy ending.
I love dual POV, so we were able to see how their relationship affected each other them in the different stages of their lives.

Just my personal pet peeve:
I know they were young but the levels of miscommunication almost put me over. Some things were typical high school love shit but others were to the point where just one sentence could have changed the whole thing.

[Ang · Rating 5 out of 5]

The emotions it stirred within me were overwhelming. It was a blend of sweetness, romance, frustration, anger, and such a great read all rolled into one. It’s a touching and engaging journey that will have you cheering for Sunny and Dex throughout their ups and downs.

From the very first page to the last, I was completely engrossed. While it primarily tells a love story, it also explores deeper themes that resonate with so many. I found myself completely absorbed, finishing the entire book in just one day.

[Emily Matos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll be honest, I first bought this book because I was obsessed with the cover but the love story inside is just as beautiful! I cannot get enough of Sunny and Dex!!! The character development is top tier - the author did an amazing job of showing how the protagonists’ trauma affected them consciously and subconsciously and how they worked through it to become the versions of themselves that they were always meant to be. The universe always has different plans from what our ego thinks should happen but it all comes out better than imagined once the stars finally align. I can’t wait for another book by this author!!

[Catie Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't put it down! The story pulled me in right away, and I found myself completely invested in the characters. Dex and Sunny were frustrating at times, but that made them feel more real and relatable. I also really liked how the book didn’t just focus on the main characters, but gave us a glimpse into the lives and growth of their friends as well. It made the world feel full and alive. Highly recommend!!

[Edina Murakozy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is something else. It gave me anxiety. It is sweet, romantic, annoying, infuriating and awesome at the same time. It is the perfect example of where the lack of communication, the need to please everyone and our own insecurities lead us.
But - it is the story of great love and the rocky road (pun intended) that finally leads to HEA.
Thank you!

[Colette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this love story and read it quickly in a little over a day simply because I needed to know how everything unfolded. I fell in love with the characters and felt their heartbreak when things were off course and then proud when they learned to advocate for and love themselves. This is so well written and easy to read, I felt like I was conversing with friends.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nathalie Theodore enters the romance novel genre with quite a splash! I absolutely LOVED If The Stars Align! It is so captivating, well-written, emotion provoking and has such well developed characters that it is impossible to put down. Theodore takes us on quite the roller-coaster journey as she brilliantly portrays both Sunny and Dex' inner dialogues. She diligently captures both the flaws and beauty of the characters, and portrays such realistic accounts of the world of law, mental health, family dynamics, complicated friendships and of course, true love. I can't wait for the next book to come out. I have a feeling Nathalie Theodore will be the next big name in romance novel authors!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely and nuanced novel! I quite enjoyed the story of Dex and Sunny trying to figure things out. This one reminded me a lot of How To End A Love Story.
I look forward to reading more of Nathalie's work in the future!

[Lindsey Kurek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect romance novel with dynamic characters, Sunny and Dex, who share a beautiful realistic love story and transform into their most authentic selves. Nathalie Theodore’s writing kept me captivated through the final page. Would highly recommend!!