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Checking Out Love #1
An Overdue Match
Can a librarian's matchmaking mischief lead to a love that rewrites their stories?
If the covers of every romance book ever published didn't convince librarian Evangeline Kelly that she isn't heroine material, her fiancé calling off their wedding when she lost her hair to alopecia did. But what's a girl head over heels for love to do when her feelings are unrequited? Matchmake, that's what. Armed with library patrons' check-out histories, she's determined to make at least one love connection—even if it's not her own.
Tattoo artist Tai Davis is used to people judging him with a single glance, so it doesn't surprise him when the town's quirky new librarian believes his bad-boy reputation without giving him a chance. He can't help being intrigued by her, though, so when he discovers Evangeline's secret matchmaking scheme, he's not above striking a bargain with her. She just has to agree to one date with him for every time she uses his hometown knowledge to set up library patrons on a romantic rendezvous. The deal is made, but in the process, they both might learn you can't judge a book—or each other—by the cover.
"With a uniquely heartfelt message, lovable characters, and laugh-out-loud moments, Sarah Monzon's novel is a delight!"—MELISSA FERGUSON, bestselling author of How to Plot a Payback
This is a sweet he-falls-first, opposites attract, matchmaker romantic comedy with disability representation. Perfect for fans of books about books and kisses-only romances.
If the covers of every romance book ever published didn't convince librarian Evangeline Kelly that she isn't heroine material, her fiancé calling off their wedding when she lost her hair to alopecia did. But what's a girl head over heels for love to do when her feelings are unrequited? Matchmake, that's what. Armed with library patrons' check-out histories, she's determined to make at least one love connection—even if it's not her own.
Tattoo artist Tai Davis is used to people judging him with a single glance, so it doesn't surprise him when the town's quirky new librarian believes his bad-boy reputation without giving him a chance. He can't help being intrigued by her, though, so when he discovers Evangeline's secret matchmaking scheme, he's not above striking a bargain with her. She just has to agree to one date with him for every time she uses his hometown knowledge to set up library patrons on a romantic rendezvous. The deal is made, but in the process, they both might learn you can't judge a book—or each other—by the cover.
"With a uniquely heartfelt message, lovable characters, and laugh-out-loud moments, Sarah Monzon's novel is a delight!"—MELISSA FERGUSON, bestselling author of How to Plot a Payback
This is a sweet he-falls-first, opposites attract, matchmaker romantic comedy with disability representation. Perfect for fans of books about books and kisses-only romances.
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First published February 1, 2025
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About the author
Sarah Monzon
27 books749 followersA Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 524 reviews
March 20, 2025
An Overdue Match is the start of a contemporary Christian romance series set around a library and the quirky librarian named Evangeline.
Evangeline has alopecia and her previous relationship ended because of it.
She has sworn off dating but wants to match make her library patrons because she is still a hopeless romantic.
Tie notices her doing this and finds it endearing, so he kinda blackmails her into letting him join her.
I loved the set up and first few chapters of this book!
It was so cute watching Evangeline stalk Tie at the beginning over how he treated the library books. We love a girl who values the integrity of books!
I also enjoyed seeing the unique representation of alopecia through Evangeline. I didn’t know much about it, so it was enlightening to read through Evangeline’s struggles with self image and identity.
The overall message was about self acceptance, believing in God’s value of us, and accepting love from others. They were delivered well.
I found the romance very cringey for the most part. Tie was perceived as a bad boy player by Evangeline which he was hurt by, and yet the lines he would spew to her pretty much lined up with that image. He expressed his feelings for her openly and flirtatiously which made Evangeline uncomfortable. She was resisting him because she wanted to hide her condition, but he kept pushing which I just didn’t like. He was trying to respect her I think and express his care but it felt forceful and suggestive, which was a turn off for me.
When their feelings for each other finally lined up, it was sweet to see them be together. The development of these feelings is what missed the mark for me.
One minor detail is that there were some literary references to pop culture that brought me out of the story. One about I Kissed Dating Goodbye and the other about The Hunger Games. They were unnecessary and oddly used. The Lord of the Rings ones worked.
Overall, I do think a lot of people will like this book and find the romance light hearted and swoony.
Tropes & Triggers: library setting, nerdy girl, he only has eyes for her, alopecia rep, only kissing, no language
Evangeline has alopecia and her previous relationship ended because of it.
She has sworn off dating but wants to match make her library patrons because she is still a hopeless romantic.
Tie notices her doing this and finds it endearing, so he kinda blackmails her into letting him join her.
I loved the set up and first few chapters of this book!
It was so cute watching Evangeline stalk Tie at the beginning over how he treated the library books. We love a girl who values the integrity of books!
I also enjoyed seeing the unique representation of alopecia through Evangeline. I didn’t know much about it, so it was enlightening to read through Evangeline’s struggles with self image and identity.
The overall message was about self acceptance, believing in God’s value of us, and accepting love from others. They were delivered well.
I found the romance very cringey for the most part. Tie was perceived as a bad boy player by Evangeline which he was hurt by, and yet the lines he would spew to her pretty much lined up with that image. He expressed his feelings for her openly and flirtatiously which made Evangeline uncomfortable. She was resisting him because she wanted to hide her condition, but he kept pushing which I just didn’t like. He was trying to respect her I think and express his care but it felt forceful and suggestive, which was a turn off for me.
When their feelings for each other finally lined up, it was sweet to see them be together. The development of these feelings is what missed the mark for me.
One minor detail is that there were some literary references to pop culture that brought me out of the story. One about I Kissed Dating Goodbye and the other about The Hunger Games. They were unnecessary and oddly used. The Lord of the Rings ones worked.
Overall, I do think a lot of people will like this book and find the romance light hearted and swoony.
Tropes & Triggers: library setting, nerdy girl, he only has eyes for her, alopecia rep, only kissing, no language
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January 9, 2025I like the idea of a librarian/bad boy story, but the premise is a complete violation of patron privacy. Using patron's checkout records to manipulate them? Ew. (I say this as someone that works in a library.)
February 3, 2025
Someone once told me that "a romcom with depth is an oxymoron." I disagreed then, and this book just reaffirms my opinion. An Overdue Match introduces you to an "unlikely heroine" (in her opinion). After a disastrous breakup with a shallow, sorry-excuse-for a guy fiance who can't see past flowing locks of keratin-coated dead skin cells--um, I mean hair, she's sworn off romance (for herself anyway) and determined to live vicariously through the matches she's sure she'll make.
Let's just say things aren't as simple as she expects them to be.
Monzon did what she does best--she gave us laugh-out-loud moments mingled with the reality of living with permanent and total hair loss in a society that spends billions of dollars every year trying to keep women's hair silky, shining, and flowing.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the story is how "bad boy" (in some people's opinion, anyway) Tai knows exactly what he needs to do to reassure her and give her the sort of self-confidence she needs.
Look, usually it wouldn't work. he'd be too "perfect." But he's been there in his own way. He gets it. And that makes him perfectly suited rather than just too perfect. Genius.
Also, so many authors overdo the "consent" thing to the point that it's unnatural, stilted, and kind of insulting to guys. With any other characters in any other situations, I might even think so for this one. But Tai knows what he's doing. He gets her. He understands. And because of it, that works GREAT. I didn't even cringe over sizzling moments of raw attraction etc. For me, that's unheard of. Somehow, in this book, it just worked. Period.
And can I add how thrilled I am that this is just book one in a SERIES? EEEP! Send me more!
Recommended for anyone who wants a fun, quirky story with rich faith and characters you won't want to say goodbye to.
Let's just say things aren't as simple as she expects them to be.
Monzon did what she does best--she gave us laugh-out-loud moments mingled with the reality of living with permanent and total hair loss in a society that spends billions of dollars every year trying to keep women's hair silky, shining, and flowing.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the story is how "bad boy" (in some people's opinion, anyway) Tai knows exactly what he needs to do to reassure her and give her the sort of self-confidence she needs.
Look, usually it wouldn't work. he'd be too "perfect." But he's been there in his own way. He gets it. And that makes him perfectly suited rather than just too perfect. Genius.
Also, so many authors overdo the "consent" thing to the point that it's unnatural, stilted, and kind of insulting to guys. With any other characters in any other situations, I might even think so for this one. But Tai knows what he's doing. He gets her. He understands. And because of it, that works GREAT. I didn't even cringe over sizzling moments of raw attraction etc. For me, that's unheard of. Somehow, in this book, it just worked. Period.
And can I add how thrilled I am that this is just book one in a SERIES? EEEP! Send me more!
Recommended for anyone who wants a fun, quirky story with rich faith and characters you won't want to say goodbye to.
December 10, 2025
2.25, this book felt like two opposing worldviews trying to fit together like ill-shaped puzzle pieces. At moments it felt like it was trying to be a mainstream novel, making jokes about a character being lesbian, lecturing the reader about LOTR needing more diversity and demonizing the character who defends Tolkien. As well as characters complaining at “man-splaining.” Then on the other hand it talks about God, and the importance of prayer. In total, I believe this book is a creation of progressive Christianity which is highly problematic.
I love when an author decides to write “diverse” cast, and like that she wrote a character with alopecia. I enjoyed the asthma rep — fellow asthmatic here — even if it didn’t have much to do with the story. My primary issues were the discordant worldviews which made me feel a sense of whiplash while reading. There is a way to address all the issues she brings up without needing a progressive worldview since Scripture is sufficient, I think this book would have been phenomenal if she’d done so. Overall, what could have been a powerful sentiment of “you are beautifully and wonderfully made,” became a milk toast, “God loves you, because He is love.”
I love when an author decides to write “diverse” cast, and like that she wrote a character with alopecia. I enjoyed the asthma rep — fellow asthmatic here — even if it didn’t have much to do with the story. My primary issues were the discordant worldviews which made me feel a sense of whiplash while reading. There is a way to address all the issues she brings up without needing a progressive worldview since Scripture is sufficient, I think this book would have been phenomenal if she’d done so. Overall, what could have been a powerful sentiment of “you are beautifully and wonderfully made,” became a milk toast, “God loves you, because He is love.”
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February 14, 2025There is so much to like about An Overdue Match. Let's begin with the plot, which is both hilarious and touching. The blunders and oopsies of attempting to matchmake add quite a bit of hilarity to the story. It's not without its serious moments, however, because our heroine suffers from an autoimmune disorder that has cast quite a shadow on her life. Autoimmune disorders are not focused enough on in fiction, and as someone with family members who suffer from such disorders, it was nice to see this so accurately represented. This portion of the plot is emotional and touching, and is guaranteed to tug the heartstrings.
The main characters are lovable. Evangeline needs more than a few hugs, and Tai is such a gentle hero. A turkey at times, but an admirable hero nonetheless. I really liked how accepting he was of Evangeline, unlike a rancid someone whom I shall not name.
The faith element is gently woven in and really emerges in the last half of the book. I appreciated the emphasis of prayer, and certain parts drive home about the Lord's unfailing love.
There are some lovely themes within An Overdue Match's pages. First, that the Lord's love transcends any opinions man may have toward us. Second, the necessity of being yourself and not being a people pleaser. Third, to not judge a book by its cover. Fourth, the importance of quality friendships, and fifth, that the world's standards of beauty are overrated.
Other notable qualities of the book include the emphasis on family. Where so many movies and books paint family in a negative light, An Overdue Match reminds us what a blessing family truly is. Monzon also possess a witty and engaging writing style that kept me laughing for pages at a time. From rascally raccoons to kleptomaniac squirrels, there are a myriad of amusing incidents.
Unfortunately, there are also parts that merit content warnings.
There are instances of sexual innuendo, one time going so far as to allude to the size, or potential lack thereof, of Tai's anatomy. This was so disappointing because the characters will pray, but then say things like that innuendo. Some makeout sessions may also be too heavy for certain readers. Liberal references and propaganda are also in this book, including a sneer, calling racist those of us who do not find Peter Jackson's "all white" cast for Lord of the Rings offensive. Neither the sexual innuendos nor liberal comments advanced the book in any way, and I was so disappointed to stumble across them.
An Overdue Match has so many good qualities and is guaranteed to make the reader laugh, but I had a hard time with the propaganda and innuendos.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in conjunction with NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The main characters are lovable. Evangeline needs more than a few hugs, and Tai is such a gentle hero. A turkey at times, but an admirable hero nonetheless. I really liked how accepting he was of Evangeline, unlike a rancid someone whom I shall not name.
The faith element is gently woven in and really emerges in the last half of the book. I appreciated the emphasis of prayer, and certain parts drive home about the Lord's unfailing love.
There are some lovely themes within An Overdue Match's pages. First, that the Lord's love transcends any opinions man may have toward us. Second, the necessity of being yourself and not being a people pleaser. Third, to not judge a book by its cover. Fourth, the importance of quality friendships, and fifth, that the world's standards of beauty are overrated.
Other notable qualities of the book include the emphasis on family. Where so many movies and books paint family in a negative light, An Overdue Match reminds us what a blessing family truly is. Monzon also possess a witty and engaging writing style that kept me laughing for pages at a time. From rascally raccoons to kleptomaniac squirrels, there are a myriad of amusing incidents.
Unfortunately, there are also parts that merit content warnings.
There are instances of sexual innuendo, one time going so far as to allude to the size, or potential lack thereof, of Tai's anatomy. This was so disappointing because the characters will pray, but then say things like that innuendo. Some makeout sessions may also be too heavy for certain readers. Liberal references and propaganda are also in this book, including a sneer, calling racist those of us who do not find Peter Jackson's "all white" cast for Lord of the Rings offensive. Neither the sexual innuendos nor liberal comments advanced the book in any way, and I was so disappointed to stumble across them.
An Overdue Match has so many good qualities and is guaranteed to make the reader laugh, but I had a hard time with the propaganda and innuendos.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in conjunction with NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 9, 2025
1/5
i didn’t think i’d ever give a one star rating let alone 2 consecutive ones. maybe im not the target demographic for this and if i was a southern christian woman i would love it but this all rubbed me the wrong way.
there are too many plot lines that go nowhere or get adequately explored. the entire matchmaking plot line lasts 2 second. fake dating never even takes off. the book opens with a morality check and implicit bias about neck tattoos. there are competing chronic illness plots with asthma and alopecia. dead parents (bonus points because it’s a plane crash). random details about fmc sister being a put together pantsuit wearing business woman with a vague job.
an overdue match felt like the bad mashup of a tiktok trope book and bible thumpers. our main couple goes on a date and mmc starts talking about “His love.” again, i am clearly not the target demographic of this novel.
additionally, the “i am not a heroine i am a secondary character” got really old after the 16th mention.
please skip this. save yourself.
i didn’t think i’d ever give a one star rating let alone 2 consecutive ones. maybe im not the target demographic for this and if i was a southern christian woman i would love it but this all rubbed me the wrong way.
there are too many plot lines that go nowhere or get adequately explored. the entire matchmaking plot line lasts 2 second. fake dating never even takes off. the book opens with a morality check and implicit bias about neck tattoos. there are competing chronic illness plots with asthma and alopecia. dead parents (bonus points because it’s a plane crash). random details about fmc sister being a put together pantsuit wearing business woman with a vague job.
an overdue match felt like the bad mashup of a tiktok trope book and bible thumpers. our main couple goes on a date and mmc starts talking about “His love.” again, i am clearly not the target demographic of this novel.
additionally, the “i am not a heroine i am a secondary character” got really old after the 16th mention.
please skip this. save yourself.
January 18, 2025
This novel is leaving me with a book hangover with all the feels. I can tell the author has an emotional attachment to this story.
First of all, Tai is my new book boyfriend. I can't imagine anyone being better. He sees Evangeline, his Angel for who she is. He pursues her with loving-kindness and witty flirtations. The perceived bad boy with tattoos is not the typical hero in Angel's mind. He conveys to her truth through words and actions, that God loves her.
Secondly, I love not only Tai, but Evangeline. She is a librarian. I want to be her best friend. She is so sweet and loving to her family and friends. However, she has listened to lies about her beauty because of Alopecia and doesn't realize her worth. She wants to stay on the sidelines where it's safe.
Lastly, I love all the characters, except Brett, the antagonist of course. The author has written a world of awesome characters and I can't wait to hear from them again!
I am so glad there will be a sequel! Yay!!
As you can tell from all the gushing, that I loved the book and I highly recommend it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
First of all, Tai is my new book boyfriend. I can't imagine anyone being better. He sees Evangeline, his Angel for who she is. He pursues her with loving-kindness and witty flirtations. The perceived bad boy with tattoos is not the typical hero in Angel's mind. He conveys to her truth through words and actions, that God loves her.
Secondly, I love not only Tai, but Evangeline. She is a librarian. I want to be her best friend. She is so sweet and loving to her family and friends. However, she has listened to lies about her beauty because of Alopecia and doesn't realize her worth. She wants to stay on the sidelines where it's safe.
Lastly, I love all the characters, except Brett, the antagonist of course. The author has written a world of awesome characters and I can't wait to hear from them again!
I am so glad there will be a sequel! Yay!!
As you can tell from all the gushing, that I loved the book and I highly recommend it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
February 10, 2025
i really wanted to fall in love with this book but the dual POV (1st person for evageline and 3rd person for Tai) kinda threw me off and made it hard to immerse into their world. i also didn't really like the constant references being made throughout the entire book.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2025
A story of resilience, courage and having the strength to see how beautiful and loved you are by God.
When a librarian sees a man return a book with dog eared pages, she thinks he's the worst thing since paisley was created. And when he finds out that she is starting to matchmake patrons, well what follows is a sweet story of two people who struggled with trials of their own and came together to form a strong bond of love and friendship.
The bad guy persona of the love interest, mixed with fun romance tropes and humor. I loved both characters so much and they made such a sweet couple. The only thing that would make this story even better, was if it was longer.
*thank you to Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
When a librarian sees a man return a book with dog eared pages, she thinks he's the worst thing since paisley was created. And when he finds out that she is starting to matchmake patrons, well what follows is a sweet story of two people who struggled with trials of their own and came together to form a strong bond of love and friendship.
The bad guy persona of the love interest, mixed with fun romance tropes and humor. I loved both characters so much and they made such a sweet couple. The only thing that would make this story even better, was if it was longer.
*thank you to Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
March 4, 2025
I really wanted to like this book. Even though contemporary isn't my normal genre of choice, I found the book blurb intriguing and couldn't stop thinking about reading this book. I loved the idea of a bookish heroine. I loved the matchmaking aspect. I love the reluctant allies trope. It had lots of elements that should've made for a truly wonderful book, but it still managed to fall flat.
Evangeline was a bookish girl through and through. Honestly, it was a bit overdone. I liked that she was a librarian and enjoyed seeing how dedicated she was to helping those around her (especially when it comes to reading). She never wants to burden anyone and carries the weight of the world on her shoulders.
Tai was sweet, I guess. It was nice that he saw Evangeline for who she truly was and recognized her beauty. I did not love his frequent use of sexual innuendos. This is supposed to be a clean Christian fiction novel; I did not sign up for that type of content.
I did not love the conversation surrounding tattoos. I found the analogy about the Sistine Chapel appalling. Also, did everybody and their brother's dog REALLY need to get a tattoo by the end of the book???
Overall, this book could have been a lot better. While the book had a cool premise, the execution and content left me disappointed.
I received an advance copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
Evangeline was a bookish girl through and through. Honestly, it was a bit overdone. I liked that she was a librarian and enjoyed seeing how dedicated she was to helping those around her (especially when it comes to reading). She never wants to burden anyone and carries the weight of the world on her shoulders.
Tai was sweet, I guess. It was nice that he saw Evangeline for who she truly was and recognized her beauty. I did not love his frequent use of sexual innuendos. This is supposed to be a clean Christian fiction novel; I did not sign up for that type of content.
I did not love the conversation surrounding tattoos. I found the analogy about the Sistine Chapel appalling. Also, did everybody and their brother's dog REALLY need to get a tattoo by the end of the book???
Overall, this book could have been a lot better. While the book had a cool premise, the execution and content left me disappointed.
I received an advance copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
March 3, 2025
As a former librarian, I really enjoyed having a librarian as the FMC. There were so many aspects of working in the library that I remember all too well - weird things ending up in the book drop, an inherent need to fix mis-shelved books (still do this today), all the joys and annoyances of running library programs, and knowing more about your library patrons than you probably should. While the concept of matchmaking with checkout histories was interesting, I didn't think it really worked as intended; however, it's a rather small part of the book and took nothing away from enjoying the story. This quote was one of my favorites: "I'm not naturally an outgoing person and often have difficulty with small talk, but if the subject is books, then I'm like an imbiber who's had one too many drinks, and it's often hard to get me to shut up."
I also liked that the author brought alopecia to the forefront of the story. I honestly knew very little about this autoimmune disease before reading and thought the author gave good insights into the experiences of someone living with it.
One note for clean readers: There is one scene toward the end when I felt that, for Christian Fiction, it toed the line of "how far is too far." If included in a secular book, I probably wouldn't have questioned it.
I also liked that the author brought alopecia to the forefront of the story. I honestly knew very little about this autoimmune disease before reading and thought the author gave good insights into the experiences of someone living with it.
One note for clean readers: There is one scene toward the end when I felt that, for Christian Fiction, it toed the line of "how far is too far." If included in a secular book, I probably wouldn't have questioned it.
February 17, 2025
Sixty-four. That's how many quotes I highlighted in my Kindle. Sixty. Four. You guys. If you need the mark of a great book, that should be a start.
But besides the number of quotes...
It took me WAY too long to figure out who the cat was named after. What can I say? I have almost no knowledge of pop culture. But it's cute! And tattoos? If you've followed me any length of time at all, you know I have a thing for tattoos. And they play a big role here.
In addition to, I love how Evangeline related EVERYTHING to books. It's like I was looking into my own soul!
But you know, even with all of those things, this book was so much more. This book is about a journey to finding your worth in who God says you are. And loving and accepting that uniquely beautiful, beloved human. I fought so many tears while reading this. It's deep, beautiful, and wonderfully written.
I want to start it all over again.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
But besides the number of quotes...
It took me WAY too long to figure out who the cat was named after. What can I say? I have almost no knowledge of pop culture. But it's cute! And tattoos? If you've followed me any length of time at all, you know I have a thing for tattoos. And they play a big role here.
In addition to, I love how Evangeline related EVERYTHING to books. It's like I was looking into my own soul!
But you know, even with all of those things, this book was so much more. This book is about a journey to finding your worth in who God says you are. And loving and accepting that uniquely beautiful, beloved human. I fought so many tears while reading this. It's deep, beautiful, and wonderfully written.
I want to start it all over again.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
dnf
February 24, 2025DNF @ 52%. In the book’s defense, I didn’t realize it was Christian fiction until I was about 1/3 of the way in and noticed how the main characters and their families always make a point to say Grace on page before each meal. And while that’s really the only obvious religious moments it’s had so far (other than the hero nicknaming the heroine Angel, which I don’t love), it still stood out to me and decreased my enjoyment of the story because I personally want zero Christianity in my romances. And I’m not sure if it was because of the subgenre or just the author’s writing style, but the characters felt juvenile and like I was reading YA instead of an adult novel. It wasn’t a “bad” book by any means, it just wasn’t at all what I expected when I first read the synopsis and saw the hero was a bad boy tattoo artist. I will give kudos that the heroine has alopecia and wears wigs because of it, which isn’t a representation I’ve read in a romance before!
I’m trying to dive into more new authors in 2025 and pick up books without having to know a ton about the tropes/plot or what other reviewers are saying, but in this case it kinda backfired on me 😅
I’m trying to dive into more new authors in 2025 and pick up books without having to know a ton about the tropes/plot or what other reviewers are saying, but in this case it kinda backfired on me 😅
November 16, 2025
This was totally heart-breaking! This was totally uplifting!
Yep…both!
Evangeline is a young librarian with alopecia. Meaning, she’s lost ALL of her hair… with no signs of it ever coming back. She WAS a beautiful woman, once…. But then her fiancé Brett broke up with her, after this happened…
And now, well she has no hope of ever falling in love again. ☹️
She’s moved to a new town, and started her life all over again…with wigs, etc.
And here, no one knows…
She has a new friend, Hailey, another librarian. And she has a cousin, Ty.
He’s got a typical bad-boy look with black leather jacket and tattoos galore…
And…. He seems to like Evangeline! BUT… she has NO interest in him…
Sometimes though, things are not a,ways as they seem…
He basically coerces her to go out with him, but not so much on a date…
And then, the story really begins…
Add to this that Evangeline and her sister are starting to plan something for their grandparents 50th Anniversary! And, her ex, Brett is sure to be there!!
I’m going to 🛑 STOP RIGHT HERE!! 🛑
If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, please pick it up!
Borrowed this from the library as book #2 comes out next week, and it’s next up on my NetGalley list!
#AnOverdueMatch by @SarahMonzon and narrated nicely by @AllysonMorgan.
This one definitely made me FEEL ALL THE FEELS. The good. The Bad. The Happy. The Sad. The Sappy. The Sweet. And… so much more!
And, it brought so much light to those who suffer from alopecia!
All the stars for me!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✨✨✨✨✨💫💫💫💫💫
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Yep…both!
Evangeline is a young librarian with alopecia. Meaning, she’s lost ALL of her hair… with no signs of it ever coming back. She WAS a beautiful woman, once…. But then her fiancé Brett broke up with her, after this happened…
And now, well she has no hope of ever falling in love again. ☹️
She’s moved to a new town, and started her life all over again…with wigs, etc.
And here, no one knows…
She has a new friend, Hailey, another librarian. And she has a cousin, Ty.
He’s got a typical bad-boy look with black leather jacket and tattoos galore…
And…. He seems to like Evangeline! BUT… she has NO interest in him…
Sometimes though, things are not a,ways as they seem…
He basically coerces her to go out with him, but not so much on a date…
And then, the story really begins…
Add to this that Evangeline and her sister are starting to plan something for their grandparents 50th Anniversary! And, her ex, Brett is sure to be there!!
I’m going to 🛑 STOP RIGHT HERE!! 🛑
If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, please pick it up!
Borrowed this from the library as book #2 comes out next week, and it’s next up on my NetGalley list!
#AnOverdueMatch by @SarahMonzon and narrated nicely by @AllysonMorgan.
This one definitely made me FEEL ALL THE FEELS. The good. The Bad. The Happy. The Sad. The Sappy. The Sweet. And… so much more!
And, it brought so much light to those who suffer from alopecia!
All the stars for me!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✨✨✨✨✨💫💫💫💫💫
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August 27, 2025
Cute cover but I didn't love this 😔
Liked that the characters were religious and proud of it 👏
Liked that the characters were religious and proud of it 👏
March 6, 2025
A kiss only romance between a librarian and a tattoo artist.
Evangeline is a librarian. She is very stuffy about the books. She loves romance but after her fiancé left her after her alopecia advanced, she does not believe that she can get the love the heroine in a book gets. So she sets her sights on matchmaking. At the same time, Tai, the local tattoo artist meets Evangeline and starts to fall.
When I read the description of the book I missed a BIG red flag. Evangeline uses patron checkout history to matchmake. This is such a blatant violation of privacy that it made me sick to my stomach. Matching together people because you saw they both liked gardening books in the course of day to day would be one thing but this was a detailed history printed out and hauled around town of ALL of their checkouts. Most library systems delete past checkouts due to privacy concerns so I felt like this was not well-researched. Additionally, there was a point they talked about the difference between coral and kingsnakes. There are no coral snakes in the mountains of Tennessee, I grew up not far from there and was so confused by that conversation.
This had potential and I just cannot resist the allure of a romance with a librarian lead, but the privacy violations just ruined the book.
I received a free copy of this book in hopes I would provide a voluntary review. All opinions are my own. Clearly, getting it for free did not make me change my rating.
Evangeline is a librarian. She is very stuffy about the books. She loves romance but after her fiancé left her after her alopecia advanced, she does not believe that she can get the love the heroine in a book gets. So she sets her sights on matchmaking. At the same time, Tai, the local tattoo artist meets Evangeline and starts to fall.
When I read the description of the book I missed a BIG red flag. Evangeline uses patron checkout history to matchmake. This is such a blatant violation of privacy that it made me sick to my stomach. Matching together people because you saw they both liked gardening books in the course of day to day would be one thing but this was a detailed history printed out and hauled around town of ALL of their checkouts. Most library systems delete past checkouts due to privacy concerns so I felt like this was not well-researched. Additionally, there was a point they talked about the difference between coral and kingsnakes. There are no coral snakes in the mountains of Tennessee, I grew up not far from there and was so confused by that conversation.
This had potential and I just cannot resist the allure of a romance with a librarian lead, but the privacy violations just ruined the book.
I received a free copy of this book in hopes I would provide a voluntary review. All opinions are my own. Clearly, getting it for free did not make me change my rating.
December 12, 2025
Set in Little Creek, Tennessee, “An Overdue Match" by Sarah Monzon pairs a prim librarian and a suave tattoo artist for a he-falls-first romance that's fresh and fun and full of heart.
A love letter to romance tropes and everything bookish, this contemporary romance is sure to have readers grinning at the pages with its fabulous flirty banter! Thoughtful alopecia and asthma representation ground the novel with depth while a diverse cast of vibrant characters endear themselves to the reader, brightening the narrative with humor. Fans of "Authentically, Izzy" by Pepper Basham will enjoy this story's literary references, themes of identity, and southern charm.
If you're scouring the bookshelves for your next favorite rom-com, you should check out An Overdue Match!
📚 Checking Out Love
📖 1) An Overdue Match
A love letter to romance tropes and everything bookish, this contemporary romance is sure to have readers grinning at the pages with its fabulous flirty banter! Thoughtful alopecia and asthma representation ground the novel with depth while a diverse cast of vibrant characters endear themselves to the reader, brightening the narrative with humor. Fans of "Authentically, Izzy" by Pepper Basham will enjoy this story's literary references, themes of identity, and southern charm.
If you're scouring the bookshelves for your next favorite rom-com, you should check out An Overdue Match!
📚 Checking Out Love
📖 1) An Overdue Match
September 19, 2025
This is such a sweet, fun read! Tai and Evangeline’s journey was an adorable adventure and I literally swooned for them at the baseball game 😍
This story represents alopecia and cancer, second chance romance, self acceptance, and self love.
I found this to be a quick, enjoyable read. The romance is sweet and full of passionate kisses.
Plus! All of the movie/tv references as well as book hero’s and heroines. I loved all of them and it felt nostalgic as well. So fun!
This story represents alopecia and cancer, second chance romance, self acceptance, and self love.
I found this to be a quick, enjoyable read. The romance is sweet and full of passionate kisses.
Plus! All of the movie/tv references as well as book hero’s and heroines. I loved all of them and it felt nostalgic as well. So fun!
March 3, 2025
What an absolutely touching story!
Evangeline has struggled with her alopecia since she started losing her hair. Her identity as a woman was closely tied to her hair…and then she loses it and her superficial fiance who started making her question her worth period. (Seriously Brett had minimal page time and I despised him.) Tai was so amazing and the perfect hero for Evangeline. His steadfast care for Evangeline was heart warming and exactly what she needed.
There were little nods to Jesus and the fact that His love is solid and sure even when everything else goes up in flames. And I loved that Tai was the one who gave Evangeline those reminders.
I adored this story and found myself laughing out loud and tearing up in the same chapter.
If you’re looking for a romantic comedy with depth and heart I recommend this book!
RATINGS
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
💋
✝️✝️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but all opinions are my own*
Evangeline has struggled with her alopecia since she started losing her hair. Her identity as a woman was closely tied to her hair…and then she loses it and her superficial fiance who started making her question her worth period. (Seriously Brett had minimal page time and I despised him.) Tai was so amazing and the perfect hero for Evangeline. His steadfast care for Evangeline was heart warming and exactly what she needed.
There were little nods to Jesus and the fact that His love is solid and sure even when everything else goes up in flames. And I loved that Tai was the one who gave Evangeline those reminders.
I adored this story and found myself laughing out loud and tearing up in the same chapter.
If you’re looking for a romantic comedy with depth and heart I recommend this book!
RATINGS
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
💋
✝️✝️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but all opinions are my own*
March 24, 2025
An Overdue Match was a fun book! I really enjoyed it. I loved how bookish it was! Evangeline was a librarian and there were lots of fun bookish references and mentions of books. I did like Evangeline although sometimes she drove me a bit crazy but I did understand where she was coming from. Tai was a good character. He was really sweet.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book!!
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book!!
September 20, 2025
SHES BALD…… AND SHES VIOLATING AND STALKING PEOPLE WITH HAIR
negative -1 star….. making gagging sounds
negative -1 star….. making gagging sounds
September 20, 2025
well that was something
March 30, 2025
This is a sweet rom com with heart. The hero is almost perfect and the heroine has an autoimmune disease that leaves her believing she is unlovable. The heroine agrees to help her in her match-making schemes as a way to get close to her. The result is a sweet love story with humor and heart.
November 21, 2025
3.75✨️
Full Review:
This was a super sweet read covering topics like struggling with self image and learning that we are all made in the image of God and He loves us no matter what our insecurities while also adding in just enough banter to keep it a light and funny read!!
Full Review:
This was a super sweet read covering topics like struggling with self image and learning that we are all made in the image of God and He loves us no matter what our insecurities while also adding in just enough banter to keep it a light and funny read!!
February 6, 2025
Oh my goodness, what a book! This one took me on an absolute roller coaster of emotions. Evangeline is a librarian who is convinced that she isn't heroine material after being dumped because of her alopecia. Enter Thai, the tattoo artist with a bad boy rep... who in reality is actually the absolute sweetest. The way he loved Evangeline exactly as she was and helped her to see herself as worthy? Just... wow. These two had such an amazing chemistry (oh, that first real-private- kiss... SO good) with great banter that kept me smiling throughout but blended so effortlessly with those tender moments that had me reaching for the tissues. These characters truly just had my heart completely and were impossible not to fall in love with. With as great as the romance was, I also loved this message of... well, not judging a book by its cover... if we're keeping with the book references sprinkled throughout the story. If you love Christian romance, this is an absolute must read.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
did-not-finish
March 12, 2025DNF at 68%
I cannot stand the manipulative FMC disguised as benevolent. Girly is using the library patrons private information to trick them into dating. She's treating this towns people as if they are her personal dolls, that they'll do whatever she wishes of them. And don't get me started on the Christian fiction side of it. I borrowed the audiobook from libby without checking the GR page so I didn't know it was tagged as Christian fiction, otherwise I never would've read it. I don't mind religion in books but only if it's not trying to shove it down my throat that these are good Christian or "Southern, well-mannered" characters. UGH.
They're just dragging everything out for the sake of drama/tension...which there is none of, I might add. I appreciate the alopecia and asthma representation but that means nothing if the story and characters aren't well-written.
I cannot stand the manipulative FMC disguised as benevolent. Girly is using the library patrons private information to trick them into dating. She's treating this towns people as if they are her personal dolls, that they'll do whatever she wishes of them. And don't get me started on the Christian fiction side of it. I borrowed the audiobook from libby without checking the GR page so I didn't know it was tagged as Christian fiction, otherwise I never would've read it. I don't mind religion in books but only if it's not trying to shove it down my throat that these are good Christian or "Southern, well-mannered" characters. UGH.
They're just dragging everything out for the sake of drama/tension...which there is none of, I might add. I appreciate the alopecia and asthma representation but that means nothing if the story and characters aren't well-written.
Want to read
July 17, 2024Pre-release/read blurb:
...Ya'll, I adore this cover so much!!!
Library setting? A Romance? "Bad-boy" love interest? YES PLEASE!
...Ya'll, I adore this cover so much!!!
Library setting? A Romance? "Bad-boy" love interest? YES PLEASE!
February 20, 2025
I was excited to read this for the librarian FMC profession and the alopecia rep, however this did not work for me. I do have a list of grievances but I'll spare you with the semi-abridged version.
I truly could not wrap my brain around why Evangeline's POV chapters would be in first person limited and Tai's would be in third person limited when they both certainly felt like main characters. I don't think I have ever encountered that in a book and it threw me off each time the chapters changed POV.
The writing, in my opinion was clunky to mentally wade through. And I now believe there is such a thing as too many literary/cultural references in a story. It was physically impossible not to roll my eyes after a certain point.
I found Evangeline's character to be inconsistent. I was confused by her personality and maybe that was because in Tai's 3rd person POV she did feel like a different character to me. Speaking of Tai, he was really into Evangeline and I just don't think enough happened to warrant him falling that hard that fast. While isolated, his words could be considered swoony for sure, but in the context of the story I just was not convinced. It was highkey he falls first.
Lastly, maybe this was supposed to be character-driven but I do think the plot was lacking in momentum and definition.
I will say the alopecia rep was my favorite part of this story.
I did receive a copy to read and review. My thoughts are my own. I try to only sign up to read and review books I think I will enjoy. I can see this book working for others.
In this book: alopecia rep, don't-judge-a-book-by-its-cover, who hurt you, small mountain town, bookish characters, matchmaking scheme, he falls first.
Content Guide: romance = clean/suggestive thoughts and conversation; language = clean, violence = clean; faith = light amount (I do regularly read and enjoy Christian fiction but was not a fan of the faith content in this one and it seemed abruptly added when it appeared)
I truly could not wrap my brain around why Evangeline's POV chapters would be in first person limited and Tai's would be in third person limited when they both certainly felt like main characters. I don't think I have ever encountered that in a book and it threw me off each time the chapters changed POV.
The writing, in my opinion was clunky to mentally wade through. And I now believe there is such a thing as too many literary/cultural references in a story. It was physically impossible not to roll my eyes after a certain point.
I found Evangeline's character to be inconsistent. I was confused by her personality and maybe that was because in Tai's 3rd person POV she did feel like a different character to me. Speaking of Tai, he was really into Evangeline and I just don't think enough happened to warrant him falling that hard that fast. While isolated, his words could be considered swoony for sure, but in the context of the story I just was not convinced. It was highkey he falls first.
Lastly, maybe this was supposed to be character-driven but I do think the plot was lacking in momentum and definition.
I will say the alopecia rep was my favorite part of this story.
I did receive a copy to read and review. My thoughts are my own. I try to only sign up to read and review books I think I will enjoy. I can see this book working for others.
In this book: alopecia rep, don't-judge-a-book-by-its-cover, who hurt you, small mountain town, bookish characters, matchmaking scheme, he falls first.
Content Guide: romance = clean/suggestive thoughts and conversation; language = clean, violence = clean; faith = light amount (I do regularly read and enjoy Christian fiction but was not a fan of the faith content in this one and it seemed abruptly added when it appeared)
March 1, 2025
An Overdue Match by Sarah Monzon featured Evangeline, a librarian devoted to the proper treatment of books, and Tai, a tattoo artist unashamed to be who he is. Of the two main characters, Tai was my favorite. I appreciated his determination to treat/love Evangeline well, even when she wasn’t open to dating him. Evangeline was a bit angsty at times, but had satisfying character development by the end of the story.
The shining element in An Overdue Match was the author’s thoughtful treatment of alopecia. I was aware of this condition, but I had not previously read about it in a Christian fiction novel. The author surrounded Evangeline with friends and family who affirmed her worth and beauty despite her hair loss, but Monzon also exposed Evangeline to those who spoke negatively of her condition. I appreciated that Evangeline eventually gained confidence and a healthy way of viewing herself.
An Overdue Match by Sarah Monzon commenced the Checking Out Love series. It worked well as a standalone and there was no cliffhanger overlapping into book two (though I do expect to see Tai and Evangeline again). I particularly liked the ending of An Overdue Match, but it did take me a while to finish this novel as it was easy to set down and not pick up for a few days.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
The shining element in An Overdue Match was the author’s thoughtful treatment of alopecia. I was aware of this condition, but I had not previously read about it in a Christian fiction novel. The author surrounded Evangeline with friends and family who affirmed her worth and beauty despite her hair loss, but Monzon also exposed Evangeline to those who spoke negatively of her condition. I appreciated that Evangeline eventually gained confidence and a healthy way of viewing herself.
An Overdue Match by Sarah Monzon commenced the Checking Out Love series. It worked well as a standalone and there was no cliffhanger overlapping into book two (though I do expect to see Tai and Evangeline again). I particularly liked the ending of An Overdue Match, but it did take me a while to finish this novel as it was easy to set down and not pick up for a few days.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
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