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The Good Ones Are Taken
From the author of SAVVY SHELDON FEELS GOOD AS HELL, now a CW Original movie!
“[An] exceptionally entertaining, superbly sexy love story that also freely embraces other important things in life, like friendship, family, and food.” —Booklist
When Maggie's best friend admits he's in love with her, she'll have to decide whether it's worth giving up something good for something that could be amazing in this laugh-out-loud friends-to-lovers rom-com.
After a bad breakup, Maggie wants to find her Prince Charming, but all she’s finding are frogs. When her best friends, Savvy and Joan, apply pressure and demand she find a date worthy of attending their respective weddings, she agrees to take her own advice and try online dating. Since she's the maid of honor for both weddings, her bridal party duties are massive, but both brides insist that Maggie prioritize finding a date. After an onslaught of maybes, noes and hell noes, she’s close to giving up, when she meets a handsome doctor at the gym who just might be the one.
Meanwhile, her college bestie, Garrett, throws salt in everyone’s game. At every turn, he points out the red flags and tells Maggie to keep looking. Things come to a head when Maggie demands that Garrett be happy for her, and he finally admits that he can’t. Not when he’s not with her. When he blurts out his feelings, Maggie’s world is turned upside down. Now she must choose between the perfect guy and a friendship that is the foundation for everything she’s ever wanted.
Don’t miss Taj McCoy's spicy new rom-com, The Dating Prohibition, where an ambitious entrepreneur working to get her speakeasy supper club off the ground is pushed off balance when her childhood crush turns up...hotter than ever––then tells her she's off-limits.
More from Taj Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell Zora Books Her Happy Ever After The Dating Prohibition Even If the Sky is Falling (a riveting collection of interconnected multicultural stories by acclaimed authors Lane Clarke, Farah Heron, Taj McCoy, Charish Reid, Sarah Smith and Denise Williams)
“[An] exceptionally entertaining, superbly sexy love story that also freely embraces other important things in life, like friendship, family, and food.” —Booklist
When Maggie's best friend admits he's in love with her, she'll have to decide whether it's worth giving up something good for something that could be amazing in this laugh-out-loud friends-to-lovers rom-com.
After a bad breakup, Maggie wants to find her Prince Charming, but all she’s finding are frogs. When her best friends, Savvy and Joan, apply pressure and demand she find a date worthy of attending their respective weddings, she agrees to take her own advice and try online dating. Since she's the maid of honor for both weddings, her bridal party duties are massive, but both brides insist that Maggie prioritize finding a date. After an onslaught of maybes, noes and hell noes, she’s close to giving up, when she meets a handsome doctor at the gym who just might be the one.
Meanwhile, her college bestie, Garrett, throws salt in everyone’s game. At every turn, he points out the red flags and tells Maggie to keep looking. Things come to a head when Maggie demands that Garrett be happy for her, and he finally admits that he can’t. Not when he’s not with her. When he blurts out his feelings, Maggie’s world is turned upside down. Now she must choose between the perfect guy and a friendship that is the foundation for everything she’s ever wanted.
Don’t miss Taj McCoy's spicy new rom-com, The Dating Prohibition, where an ambitious entrepreneur working to get her speakeasy supper club off the ground is pushed off balance when her childhood crush turns up...hotter than ever––then tells her she's off-limits.
More from Taj Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell Zora Books Her Happy Ever After The Dating Prohibition Even If the Sky is Falling (a riveting collection of interconnected multicultural stories by acclaimed authors Lane Clarke, Farah Heron, Taj McCoy, Charish Reid, Sarah Smith and Denise Williams)
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First published April 23, 2024
198 people are currently reading
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About the author
Taj McCoy
6 books758 followersOakland native and law grad, Taj McCoy, is committed to writing stories championing Black and biracial women of color, plus-sized protagonists, Black love, and characters with a strong sense of sisterhood and familial bonds. Taj started writing as a small child, enjoying the success of her first publications in elementary school. Since then, her dream has always been to become a professional writer. As a law student, she attempted her first novels and joined the Twitter writing community. Though Taj has spent more than ten years working in higher education administration, she continued to pursue her goal and ultimately finished her first novel in 2018, securing her agent in 2019.
When she’s not writing, Taj may be on Twitter boosting other marginalized writers, trying to zen out in yoga, sharing recipes on her website, binge-watching her favorite reality tv, or cooking private supper club meals for close friends. Catch her producing and co-hosting the Fat Like Me Podcast, which celebrates body diversity in publishing and entertainment, or watch her join forces with several writer friends on Sundays for the Better Than Brunch video podcast.
When she’s not writing, Taj may be on Twitter boosting other marginalized writers, trying to zen out in yoga, sharing recipes on her website, binge-watching her favorite reality tv, or cooking private supper club meals for close friends. Catch her producing and co-hosting the Fat Like Me Podcast, which celebrates body diversity in publishing and entertainment, or watch her join forces with several writer friends on Sundays for the Better Than Brunch video podcast.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 418 reviews
June 26, 2025
4/5
- I LOVED this book!!!! I don’t know why I haven’t heard more people talk about it! I feel like this is a love triangle story that actually felt believable and was really enjoyable to read from start to finish. There wasn’t one page that didn’t keep my attention!
- Was kicking my feet when one of the characters gave her the “I love you” monologue like omggggg I swoon over scenes like that every single time.
- I love how this love triangle had two characters that were actually decent contenders. I’ve read some books in the past where it’s so obvious who the character will choose and this one wasn’t like that at all. I also really enjoyed how one of the guy characters was definitely giving touch her and you die vibes!! So good!
- I LOVED this book!!!! I don’t know why I haven’t heard more people talk about it! I feel like this is a love triangle story that actually felt believable and was really enjoyable to read from start to finish. There wasn’t one page that didn’t keep my attention!
- Was kicking my feet when one of the characters gave her the “I love you” monologue like omggggg I swoon over scenes like that every single time.
- I love how this love triangle had two characters that were actually decent contenders. I’ve read some books in the past where it’s so obvious who the character will choose and this one wasn’t like that at all. I also really enjoyed how one of the guy characters was definitely giving touch her and you die vibes!! So good!
April 5, 2024
2.5 stars
I really wanted to love this book but somehow it just didn’t work for me. It was slow moving and the story just didn’t really slow. I strongly disliked the heroine, her selfishness got on my nerves. And I also didn’t feel any chemistry between the hero and heroine, at all. I’m not really a big fan of friends to lovers trope so maybe it’s just me.
I however, loved the girl friend group. They were my favorite part of the book.
Overall, it was an okay read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
I really wanted to love this book but somehow it just didn’t work for me. It was slow moving and the story just didn’t really slow. I strongly disliked the heroine, her selfishness got on my nerves. And I also didn’t feel any chemistry between the hero and heroine, at all. I’m not really a big fan of friends to lovers trope so maybe it’s just me.
I however, loved the girl friend group. They were my favorite part of the book.
Overall, it was an okay read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
April 8, 2024
Taj McCoy doesn't miss. I love that every time I open one of her books I know I'm getting a good story, I'm going to laugh, and be relaxed the whole way through. That's exactly what happened here.
From the very first page it had me smiling and I felt as if I'd come home. Even more so because this is set in the same world as Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell, and we get to catch up with her and Spencer (they're getting married EEEEEP!!).
The plot is fairly simple, but I think that actually worked in the book's favour because the characters had a chance to shine. I loved Maggie and Garrett, and was rooting for them from the start.
It's kinda obvious by the blurb & little quote on the cover who she ends up with and that's the way it should be!! Garrett always had Maggie's best interests in mind, he knew what she wanted and needed before she even did, he sat through a billion romance movies with her, and most importantly he did NOT hire a chef just to make a tiny soup and salad with only 4 shrimp like SOMEONE we know *cough* Blake *cough*.
The only unrealistic thing is that they waited for 19 years, dating different people and Maggie was completely oblivious for two decades. I'd be a bit more inclined to believe this if nothing happened between them during college, but since it did (even if it didn't go far), you'd think she'd know he's at least a bit into her, right?
Anyway, I loved them as both friends and lovers and also their joint relationship with food. I simply adored the food descriptions, I could never get enough.
I also liked that Maggie was an older-than-average romance novel protagonist, both she and Garrett are almost 40 and ready to settle down, are doing well in their careers etc.
Am I gonna give Blake the time of day and give him a mention? I guessssss. I didn't like him, not just because I was team Garrett, but the way he was acting with Maggie from the start didn't sit right with me and I was right. After he showed his true colours, I was hoping Maggie would ditch him immediately, she didn't. But as long as she made the right choice at the end it's okay.
If you like friends to lovers (done right) then you should definitely read this book. It's so sweet, a bit of a slower burn while they realise their feelings, and there's a great supportive friend group too that's guaranteed to make you laugh with their shenanigans.
I'm so glad we got another book in this world, I'll be getting a physical copy so it can sit pretty next to Savvy and Zora, and I can't wait for whatever book Taj McCoy puts out next.
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
From the very first page it had me smiling and I felt as if I'd come home. Even more so because this is set in the same world as Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell, and we get to catch up with her and Spencer (they're getting married EEEEEP!!).
The plot is fairly simple, but I think that actually worked in the book's favour because the characters had a chance to shine. I loved Maggie and Garrett, and was rooting for them from the start.
It's kinda obvious by the blurb & little quote on the cover who she ends up with and that's the way it should be!! Garrett always had Maggie's best interests in mind, he knew what she wanted and needed before she even did, he sat through a billion romance movies with her, and most importantly he did NOT hire a chef just to make a tiny soup and salad with only 4 shrimp like SOMEONE we know *cough* Blake *cough*.
The only unrealistic thing is that they waited for 19 years, dating different people and Maggie was completely oblivious for two decades. I'd be a bit more inclined to believe this if nothing happened between them during college, but since it did (even if it didn't go far), you'd think she'd know he's at least a bit into her, right?
Anyway, I loved them as both friends and lovers and also their joint relationship with food. I simply adored the food descriptions, I could never get enough.
I also liked that Maggie was an older-than-average romance novel protagonist, both she and Garrett are almost 40 and ready to settle down, are doing well in their careers etc.
Am I gonna give Blake the time of day and give him a mention? I guessssss. I didn't like him, not just because I was team Garrett, but the way he was acting with Maggie from the start didn't sit right with me and I was right. After he showed his true colours, I was hoping Maggie would ditch him immediately, she didn't. But as long as she made the right choice at the end it's okay.
If you like friends to lovers (done right) then you should definitely read this book. It's so sweet, a bit of a slower burn while they realise their feelings, and there's a great supportive friend group too that's guaranteed to make you laugh with their shenanigans.
I'm so glad we got another book in this world, I'll be getting a physical copy so it can sit pretty next to Savvy and Zora, and I can't wait for whatever book Taj McCoy puts out next.
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
May 21, 2024
This is a reminder for myself that although these have a little bit of spice they also have Christian undertones. I really enjoyed seeing Savvy from a previous book, but don't know if this author is the right fit for me
May 23, 2024
I really wanted to like this book, but the main character at 40 whining to her friends during their wedding planning? like girl get over yourself!! There was very little plot and too many descriptions of clothes and food.
March 11, 2024
This is a case of "My Bad", but I really wanted to read a Taj McCoy book.
First, I'm not a huge "friends to lovers" fan, so that was my first flag. But I wanted to give The Good Ones Are Taken a shot because I wanted to check out a new to me author and I DID like the fact that was it was going to kind of be a love triangle.
In the synopsis we basically get the whole story. No surprises. Maggie is the single one among her friend group and she is of the age where she feels she needs to settle down. She has a good and steady job (tax attorney), she has an amazing friend group (Savvy, Joan and Beth) that are both about to be married and she has a best guy friend from college who she has regular Saturday 'dates' with. The only thing she needs to up her game is to find a man that checks all the boxes. Her friends suggest she try the online dating world after being burned by her latest boyfriend, but again, not the best of luck. FINALLY she meets the perfect Ken Doll Man at the gym. A successful doctor that does and says all the right things. Sort of. Can we say perfect on paper?
Ok, let me say the things I did like.....
I loved the friend group and I loved Maggie's love for food. I'm a big foodie, so that aspect of the book really drew me in. Food and friends? What could be better.
The whole online dating was 100% relatable and so very relevant to this day and age. It was amusing and uncomfortable, which I think online dating can be.
I loved the friendship she had with Garrett and how much they supported one another. I loved how frank they all were with one another and their conversations.
The things that could've worked better.....
I really wish we got Garrett's POV. I think that would have helped with the whole story and understanding where he came from, because NINETEEN YEARS to be on standby?! No!
The dialogue just seemed off. It didn't flow well and the fact that we got so much on page detail of outfits, food, etc really seemed unnecessary. That brings me to the pacing. The pacing and small time jumps didn't help with the believability in the relationship Maggie was fostering with the doc. Whatever they had seemed to move faster than I expected when she goes on a small trip with him.
Overall, it was obvious where this story was going to go and it felt like we really never got to see them actually together until over 3/4 of the way through. I think that's where having his POV would've helped because your girl here doesn't mind slow burns, but this was a slow mess that had a lot of potential, but didn't win any favors for me. Still enjoyed the friend group and hope that since this was an ARC that some of these issues will be cleared up in the final draft. Still would read another book by McCoy, but this one was just ok for me.
First, I'm not a huge "friends to lovers" fan, so that was my first flag. But I wanted to give The Good Ones Are Taken a shot because I wanted to check out a new to me author and I DID like the fact that was it was going to kind of be a love triangle.
In the synopsis we basically get the whole story. No surprises. Maggie is the single one among her friend group and she is of the age where she feels she needs to settle down. She has a good and steady job (tax attorney), she has an amazing friend group (Savvy, Joan and Beth) that are both about to be married and she has a best guy friend from college who she has regular Saturday 'dates' with. The only thing she needs to up her game is to find a man that checks all the boxes. Her friends suggest she try the online dating world after being burned by her latest boyfriend, but again, not the best of luck. FINALLY she meets the perfect Ken Doll Man at the gym. A successful doctor that does and says all the right things. Sort of. Can we say perfect on paper?
Ok, let me say the things I did like.....
I loved the friend group and I loved Maggie's love for food. I'm a big foodie, so that aspect of the book really drew me in. Food and friends? What could be better.
The whole online dating was 100% relatable and so very relevant to this day and age. It was amusing and uncomfortable, which I think online dating can be.
I loved the friendship she had with Garrett and how much they supported one another. I loved how frank they all were with one another and their conversations.
The things that could've worked better.....
I really wish we got Garrett's POV. I think that would have helped with the whole story and understanding where he came from, because NINETEEN YEARS to be on standby?! No!
The dialogue just seemed off. It didn't flow well and the fact that we got so much on page detail of outfits, food, etc really seemed unnecessary. That brings me to the pacing. The pacing and small time jumps didn't help with the believability in the relationship Maggie was fostering with the doc. Whatever they had seemed to move faster than I expected when she goes on a small trip with him.
Overall, it was obvious where this story was going to go and it felt like we really never got to see them actually together until over 3/4 of the way through. I think that's where having his POV would've helped because your girl here doesn't mind slow burns, but this was a slow mess that had a lot of potential, but didn't win any favors for me. Still enjoyed the friend group and hope that since this was an ARC that some of these issues will be cleared up in the final draft. Still would read another book by McCoy, but this one was just ok for me.
August 8, 2024
i’m just not a huge fan of her writing ☹️ there’s something about it i don’t like and something unrealistic about the stories. idkkk it’s not bad but i don’t enjoy it
April 7, 2024
I enjoyed the banter here a lot. Between Maggie and her friends, and her and Garrett. I'm always a sucker for good banter and supportive friend groups. Maggie and her girlfriends and a fun and hilarious bunch! Now I must say the entire love triangle premise was interesting as I don’t think I’ve read one quite like this in adult rom. BUT, I wanted and needed to see more of this chemistry we’ve been told Garrett and Maggie has. Yes he’s sweet to her, knows her fave foods etc etc but I didn’t feel any tension or anything between them? Especially since we only get Maggie’s pov. I wish we could’ve gotten in G’s head a bit but given the love triangle situation I got why we couldn’t so I wanted her to maybe observe some things, question his actions at the very least so we have her going hmmn what’s up with that lil gesture does he maybe like like me?, but she never does.
She only considered that G has feelings for her after her friends tell her that. Now I can be pretty clueless when someone likes me if they not obvious and actually coming out and saying it to my face lol but yeah I needed some more showing here.
Also as much as I loved all the yummy food everybody be eating in this book I have to admit at times some of the descriptions of clothes etc was a bit excessive. And distracted from the story itself.
ALSO Maggie giiirl all this hemming and hawing about what to do, who to choose made no sense to me come to the end. Cuz how you still tryna decide after Blake tries to pressure you to let him in your apartment (no means noo), he grabs our wrist annnnd punches Garrett??? Like there should have not still be anything to decide at that point. >.> That man shoulda been goooone!! I don’t give a damn if he apologized. And her getting mad at G for being at her apt when Blake drops her off ummm you told G he could come to get the USB hence why he was there??? So I really didn't get her reaction there at all. *face palm*
Sorry not sorry to Blake but it was a no from meeee. Team Garrett for the win!!
In spite of Maggie frustrating the heck out of me several times I did find the ending at the wedding location really sweet. (I just craved all the juicy tension between two friends who have known each other so loong and there's the potential for more).
She only considered that G has feelings for her after her friends tell her that. Now I can be pretty clueless when someone likes me if they not obvious and actually coming out and saying it to my face lol but yeah I needed some more showing here.
Also as much as I loved all the yummy food everybody be eating in this book I have to admit at times some of the descriptions of clothes etc was a bit excessive. And distracted from the story itself.
ALSO Maggie giiirl all this hemming and hawing about what to do, who to choose made no sense to me come to the end. Cuz how you still tryna decide after Blake tries to pressure you to let him in your apartment (no means noo), he grabs our wrist annnnd punches Garrett??? Like there should have not still be anything to decide at that point. >.> That man shoulda been goooone!! I don’t give a damn if he apologized. And her getting mad at G for being at her apt when Blake drops her off ummm you told G he could come to get the USB hence why he was there??? So I really didn't get her reaction there at all. *face palm*
Sorry not sorry to Blake but it was a no from meeee. Team Garrett for the win!!
In spite of Maggie frustrating the heck out of me several times I did find the ending at the wedding location really sweet. (I just craved all the juicy tension between two friends who have known each other so loong and there's the potential for more).
October 16, 2024
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .25
There were a few moments that just made me CRINGE.
1. The ‘modern’ language. I cannot. I repeat, I CANNOT read someone saying “period.” Omg, please. Very aware that this is unreasonable, but I want my books less modern. If they must be modern, don’t include any trendy words or slang. Just let it be a literary masterpiece!
2. There were things that we flat out ignored when it came to Mr. Doctor. Are we just going to skip over the fact that it seemed like Mr. Heart Surgeon was going to force his way into her house if G wasn’t there? That was enough for me, not to mention their life goals didn't align. You’re not that health conscious, and you value quality time and small gestures (like knowing your favorite food, etc) so I struggled to see how that would work out in the end?
I feel like the choice should’ve been between being single and being with G. I get it she was afraid, but ma’am….
3. Maybe it’s just me, but the FMC being so insufferable to the people around her was a bit much. I struggled to see what value she brought into their lives. I’m sure it was there, but I think it could’ve been even more prevalent to showcase the beauty of F/F & F/M platonic relationships. Sometimes she came off as selfish/self-centered, and I didn’t like that. And boy did she run from accountability.
Overall? Cute story. Love how the parents knew G was head over hills for her and just minded their business. I loved the solid advice, not pushing her one way or another, but also making sure that she’s aware of the diamond before her.
Missed opportunity: stage freight / anxiety. When she showed up to G while he was working, I thought the scene would go a little like this: "I’ve always loved you, blah blah, (insert crew member) and I made a deal. I’ll be the one interviewing you podcast style. They’ve agreed to let you retape what you’ve done." Something along those lines. That would’ve made me SWOOOON.
I recommend you try this book to see if it's for you. It’s such a cute read and the ending was perfect!!
There were a few moments that just made me CRINGE.
1. The ‘modern’ language. I cannot. I repeat, I CANNOT read someone saying “period.” Omg, please. Very aware that this is unreasonable, but I want my books less modern. If they must be modern, don’t include any trendy words or slang. Just let it be a literary masterpiece!
2. There were things that we flat out ignored when it came to Mr. Doctor. Are we just going to skip over the fact that it seemed like Mr. Heart Surgeon was going to force his way into her house if G wasn’t there? That was enough for me, not to mention their life goals didn't align. You’re not that health conscious, and you value quality time and small gestures (like knowing your favorite food, etc) so I struggled to see how that would work out in the end?
I feel like the choice should’ve been between being single and being with G. I get it she was afraid, but ma’am….
3. Maybe it’s just me, but the FMC being so insufferable to the people around her was a bit much. I struggled to see what value she brought into their lives. I’m sure it was there, but I think it could’ve been even more prevalent to showcase the beauty of F/F & F/M platonic relationships. Sometimes she came off as selfish/self-centered, and I didn’t like that. And boy did she run from accountability.
Overall? Cute story. Love how the parents knew G was head over hills for her and just minded their business. I loved the solid advice, not pushing her one way or another, but also making sure that she’s aware of the diamond before her.
Missed opportunity: stage freight / anxiety. When she showed up to G while he was working, I thought the scene would go a little like this: "I’ve always loved you, blah blah, (insert crew member) and I made a deal. I’ll be the one interviewing you podcast style. They’ve agreed to let you retape what you’ve done." Something along those lines. That would’ve made me SWOOOON.
I recommend you try this book to see if it's for you. It’s such a cute read and the ending was perfect!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2024
This story was cute and fun. It had a few steamy moments! I loved how the author made Maggie’s friend group realistic. It reminded me of my girl friends.
Maggie is in search of the perfect guy. Her friends put pressure on her to find that guy in time for their Weddings.
She’s in her 30s and she’s ready to settle, but she hasn’t found the perfect guy yet. Maggie has a bestie of 19 years, that seems to check all of her boxes, but she couldn’t possibly take him serious! One of her girlfriends convince her to explore her options through a dating app. Will she find the one?
Read this book if you enjoy
💕Adult Romance
💕Sisterhood
💕Friends to Lovers
💕Online Dating
💕BIPOC
💕Foodie
This copy had a few writing errors,but it is an arc, so I’m sure that will be fixed before its release. The book was very predictable.
Thank you Hear Our Voice Tours for this ARC!
Maggie is in search of the perfect guy. Her friends put pressure on her to find that guy in time for their Weddings.
She’s in her 30s and she’s ready to settle, but she hasn’t found the perfect guy yet. Maggie has a bestie of 19 years, that seems to check all of her boxes, but she couldn’t possibly take him serious! One of her girlfriends convince her to explore her options through a dating app. Will she find the one?
Read this book if you enjoy
💕Adult Romance
💕Sisterhood
💕Friends to Lovers
💕Online Dating
💕BIPOC
💕Foodie
This copy had a few writing errors,but it is an arc, so I’m sure that will be fixed before its release. The book was very predictable.
Thank you Hear Our Voice Tours for this ARC!
April 14, 2024
Sometimes we go looking for love in all the wrong places when our Prince Charming has been right in front of us the whole time but we’ve been too blind to see it. That’s what we get with “The Good Ones Are Taken.”
When Maggie’s bestfriends Savvy and Joan make her the maid of honor for both their weddings the pressure is on for her to find a date. After dealing with a terrible break up there aren’t many contenders that could successfully fulfill the role so she looks to online dating as an option. But of course her bestie Garrett wouldn’t hesitate to be her stand in date if things don’t work out during Maggie’s manhunt. Which he’s secretly hoping it doesn’t.
After many failed attempts with online dating the universe finally showed up and showed out‼️ Maggie meets this handsome heart surgeon at the gym just when she thought all hope was lost. He appeared to be everything a woman wanted and also the perfect date to her friends wedding. But when Maggie's best friend admits he's in love with her she’s now torn between the perfect guy and a friendship she’d hate to ruin with a guy she can’t live without.
The pacing was really slow in the beginning but the dialogue and humor throughout the book made up for it. Loved the connection between Maggie and her friends and we can’t deny the chemistry between her and Garrett. From the beginning I kept thinking he’s the one stop looking for what’s already there sus. The blow up between her, Blake, and Garrett was a highlight moment and to me where the pacing really picked up.
Overall, I enjoyed the plot I’m big on the friends-to-lovers trope, the spicy scene was giving but was killing me with the “that’s my good girl” phrase, and the supporting characters were very relatable. The author tied everything together so well leaving us with such a heartwarming ending. Fans of Jasmine Gulliory would love this one. Special thanks to the author, @hearourvoicestours , @netgalley & @_mira_books_ for my advanced copy‼️
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
When Maggie’s bestfriends Savvy and Joan make her the maid of honor for both their weddings the pressure is on for her to find a date. After dealing with a terrible break up there aren’t many contenders that could successfully fulfill the role so she looks to online dating as an option. But of course her bestie Garrett wouldn’t hesitate to be her stand in date if things don’t work out during Maggie’s manhunt. Which he’s secretly hoping it doesn’t.
After many failed attempts with online dating the universe finally showed up and showed out‼️ Maggie meets this handsome heart surgeon at the gym just when she thought all hope was lost. He appeared to be everything a woman wanted and also the perfect date to her friends wedding. But when Maggie's best friend admits he's in love with her she’s now torn between the perfect guy and a friendship she’d hate to ruin with a guy she can’t live without.
The pacing was really slow in the beginning but the dialogue and humor throughout the book made up for it. Loved the connection between Maggie and her friends and we can’t deny the chemistry between her and Garrett. From the beginning I kept thinking he’s the one stop looking for what’s already there sus. The blow up between her, Blake, and Garrett was a highlight moment and to me where the pacing really picked up.
Overall, I enjoyed the plot I’m big on the friends-to-lovers trope, the spicy scene was giving but was killing me with the “that’s my good girl” phrase, and the supporting characters were very relatable. The author tied everything together so well leaving us with such a heartwarming ending. Fans of Jasmine Gulliory would love this one. Special thanks to the author, @hearourvoicestours , @netgalley & @_mira_books_ for my advanced copy‼️
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
July 14, 2024
So slow moving, & the build up I was counting on never really...built?😕 Maggie is selfish & annoying! I wanted to love this book, but the unexciting characters & hyperfocus on Maggie's eating habits was a bore. It also felt like the author was trying hard to show their Black youthfulness by their language & word choice. The over use, sometimes misuse, devalued the entire storyline for me.
2.5 of the 3 stars I'm giving are from the sex scenes (yes, spice!) & the relatable way Maggie's mothers death is talked about, from both her perspective as a daughter without her mother & a daughter witnessing her father move forward. The book felt most real in those moments.
2.5 of the 3 stars I'm giving are from the sex scenes (yes, spice!) & the relatable way Maggie's mothers death is talked about, from both her perspective as a daughter without her mother & a daughter witnessing her father move forward. The book felt most real in those moments.
April 15, 2024
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Releases April 23rd, 2024
The Good ones are taken follows Magnolia Jones who is recently out of a relationship and looking to find love. She decides to take her best friends Savvy, Joanie, and Beth’s advice to get on Tinder to start dating again. Maggie also has a male best friend (Garrett) who she met in college and has him following her on her dates, in case anything goes wrong, which they ultimately do until she meets Blake at the gym and they hit it off and go on a few dates (without Garrett). Throughout the book it becomes very clear that Garret is in love with Maggie but has never had the guts to tell her (20 years 🙄). it’s between Blake the brain Surgeon and Garrett the Sports Journalist… who will she pick.
Maggie was not likable, I am so sorry to that lady! She had a huge food obsession, and I mean fine, i like a sandwich as much as the next person, but she just always talked about her love for food. Incessantly! Also, the little drama that was in the book was not believable because it was very clear throughout the book that she didn’t really like one of her love interests. Honestly, this book was very predictable. It was cute and i liked that the characters were in their late thirties and had solid careers and friendships. Everything just worked, it just didn’t give me any of the feels i like from romance books. I’m also in my messy book era (😬), so this just didn’t hit for me. It is very well written, so if you’re looking for a sweet story, with a great group of friends and characters with great jobs, and minimal spiciness, this is the book for you.
April 24, 2024
A heartfelt, sexy friends to lovers tale with a twist that sees maid of honor, Maggie, talked into finding a date for her two best friend's joint destination weddings in Thailand. After a lot of disappointments, Maggie finally hits it off with a hot heart surgeon at the gym only to learn her best guy friend, Garrett also has romantic feelings for her.
This forces Maggie to choose between something new or the guy who knows her best and if taking a leap with Garrett is worth the risk. Steamy with great female friendship and cameos from past characters, plus lots of great food references and positive fat rep. This was a fun read but does have a love triangle trope which isn't always my favorite but worked for me this time.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I think this latest is my new favorite from Taj McCoy. It was great on audio narrated by Adenrele Ojo and I am absolutely OBSESSED with its gorgeous pink cover!
Steam level: open door
This forces Maggie to choose between something new or the guy who knows her best and if taking a leap with Garrett is worth the risk. Steamy with great female friendship and cameos from past characters, plus lots of great food references and positive fat rep. This was a fun read but does have a love triangle trope which isn't always my favorite but worked for me this time.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I think this latest is my new favorite from Taj McCoy. It was great on audio narrated by Adenrele Ojo and I am absolutely OBSESSED with its gorgeous pink cover!
Steam level: open door
April 12, 2024
2.5/3
This is going to be hard, because I wanted to love this book so badly. It had a lot of potential, but it fell very flat for me.
Let's start with the main characters.
I did not like Maggie at all. She was selfish, self-centered, and completely self-absorbed. (There's a theme here.) Every conversation with her friends, family, and coworkers were all about her. I mean, both of her best friends were getting married, but she still made everything all about her. Even Savvy's wedding dress fitting was all about Maggie. And her Maid of Honor speech? That was ridiculous. I also didn't realize at first she was 38, because some of her actions and words led me to believe she was younger.
Garrett was a good guy. He deserves a medal for putting up with Maggie for 19 years, let alone having feelings for her. I honestly thought they were dating in the beginning just because of how he treated her. He continuously bought her food, and they spend every Saturday together having "date night" by watching movies and eating and typically falling asleep together. Um... Hello? That's basically dating in a nutshell. Plus, he has his own key to her place.
Blake was wholly boring. He didn't have any substance to him outside being a surgeon. I'm not even sure why he was a contender. He was allergic to cats, and Maggie has a cat. He watches his calories judiciously, and she's a huge foodie. The whole "incident". They were an odd pairing, and even the friction he caused was lackluster because we all knew who she would pick. There was no angst.
The relationship between Maggie and Garrett was stale. I didn't feel any chemistry between the two. And you'd think after 19 years of pent up sexual frustration there'd be some heat. But sadly, they were barely lukewarm. Also, he waited 19 YEARS?!?! That seems highly unrealistic.
The friendship between Maggie, Savvy, and Joan (or is it Joanie? Her name kept going back and forth so much I thought it was a whole separate person!) was realistic for the most part. How Savvy and Joan put up with Maggie's arrogance and selfishness should put them up for sainthood. Though, I am glad they didn't hesitate to put Mags in her place most of the time.
Let's move on to the plot, what little there was. The main plot of Maggie finding a boyfriend for her friends' (starting separate and ending up joint) weddings was okay. The side plots of her wanting to make partner at the firm, Garrett's podcast, and the other things that popped up were also all fine. But that's all. They were just fine. There was no anticipation or tension. It was slow moving.
When you get to the crux of the plot, Maggie having to choose who she wanted to be with, the way she went about it made no sense. Things happened in the big scene between the three - Blake, Garrett, and Maggie - that made the choice obvious. But yet she couldn't decide. And we spend multiple chapters seeing her asking everyone - her friends, her dad, and Garrett's MOM (I'm not even going to start with how I feel about that) - what she should do. Maggie is supposed to be this smart woman, but I guess it's all book smarts because she's lacking in the common sense.
There were quite a few time jumps throughout the book that made it choppy. Some of these jumps happened in the middle of a chapter. Just randomly, with no warning. This happened with scene changes a lot, too. It left me feeling like I was missing pages and took me out of the story.
The writing was not the best. There was so much repetitiveness throughout the entire book. I'd say at least 150 pages were devoted to heavy descriptions of what everyone was wearing and what foods they were eating. I get mentioning foods and clothing choices in some scenes, but the extensive details for every meal and outfit change was unnecessary. Plus Maggie's profession was mentioned no less than twenty times. We get it; she's a badass tax attorney. Other topics were also reiterated numerous times, like she was in her busy month at work, she loves food, the world revolves around her, etc.
The blurb was also misleading. We don't find out about Garrett's feelings until 61% into the book. Starting a love triangle that far into the story was lazy writing. Although, Maggie didn't even meet Blake until around 50%. You don't need 50% of a book to "set the scene" for your entire plot when it's a 300 page book.
I really wanted to love this book, but it just wasn't for me.
I received an ARC copy full of grammar mistakes, formatting issues, punctuation errors, setting/date inconsistencies, and various other issues. Hopefully the final copy will have everything straightened out.
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Taj McCoy for the ARC of this title.
This is going to be hard, because I wanted to love this book so badly. It had a lot of potential, but it fell very flat for me.
Let's start with the main characters.
I did not like Maggie at all. She was selfish, self-centered, and completely self-absorbed. (There's a theme here.) Every conversation with her friends, family, and coworkers were all about her. I mean, both of her best friends were getting married, but she still made everything all about her. Even Savvy's wedding dress fitting was all about Maggie. And her Maid of Honor speech? That was ridiculous. I also didn't realize at first she was 38, because some of her actions and words led me to believe she was younger.
Garrett was a good guy. He deserves a medal for putting up with Maggie for 19 years, let alone having feelings for her. I honestly thought they were dating in the beginning just because of how he treated her. He continuously bought her food, and they spend every Saturday together having "date night" by watching movies and eating and typically falling asleep together. Um... Hello? That's basically dating in a nutshell. Plus, he has his own key to her place.
Blake was wholly boring. He didn't have any substance to him outside being a surgeon. I'm not even sure why he was a contender. He was allergic to cats, and Maggie has a cat. He watches his calories judiciously, and she's a huge foodie. The whole "incident". They were an odd pairing, and even the friction he caused was lackluster because we all knew who she would pick. There was no angst.
The relationship between Maggie and Garrett was stale. I didn't feel any chemistry between the two. And you'd think after 19 years of pent up sexual frustration there'd be some heat. But sadly, they were barely lukewarm. Also, he waited 19 YEARS?!?! That seems highly unrealistic.
The friendship between Maggie, Savvy, and Joan (or is it Joanie? Her name kept going back and forth so much I thought it was a whole separate person!) was realistic for the most part. How Savvy and Joan put up with Maggie's arrogance and selfishness should put them up for sainthood. Though, I am glad they didn't hesitate to put Mags in her place most of the time.
Let's move on to the plot, what little there was. The main plot of Maggie finding a boyfriend for her friends' (starting separate and ending up joint) weddings was okay. The side plots of her wanting to make partner at the firm, Garrett's podcast, and the other things that popped up were also all fine. But that's all. They were just fine. There was no anticipation or tension. It was slow moving.
When you get to the crux of the plot, Maggie having to choose who she wanted to be with, the way she went about it made no sense. Things happened in the big scene between the three - Blake, Garrett, and Maggie - that made the choice obvious. But yet she couldn't decide. And we spend multiple chapters seeing her asking everyone - her friends, her dad, and Garrett's MOM (I'm not even going to start with how I feel about that) - what she should do. Maggie is supposed to be this smart woman, but I guess it's all book smarts because she's lacking in the common sense.
There were quite a few time jumps throughout the book that made it choppy. Some of these jumps happened in the middle of a chapter. Just randomly, with no warning. This happened with scene changes a lot, too. It left me feeling like I was missing pages and took me out of the story.
The writing was not the best. There was so much repetitiveness throughout the entire book. I'd say at least 150 pages were devoted to heavy descriptions of what everyone was wearing and what foods they were eating. I get mentioning foods and clothing choices in some scenes, but the extensive details for every meal and outfit change was unnecessary. Plus Maggie's profession was mentioned no less than twenty times. We get it; she's a badass tax attorney. Other topics were also reiterated numerous times, like she was in her busy month at work, she loves food, the world revolves around her, etc.
The blurb was also misleading. We don't find out about Garrett's feelings until 61% into the book. Starting a love triangle that far into the story was lazy writing. Although, Maggie didn't even meet Blake until around 50%. You don't need 50% of a book to "set the scene" for your entire plot when it's a 300 page book.
I really wanted to love this book, but it just wasn't for me.
I received an ARC copy full of grammar mistakes, formatting issues, punctuation errors, setting/date inconsistencies, and various other issues. Hopefully the final copy will have everything straightened out.
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Taj McCoy for the ARC of this title.
February 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5
This was a very problematic read imo. I definitely thought the FMC was annoying and apparently so did her friends. Between her best friend and the eligible doctor I didn't think there was any real competition. I found myself wondering so many times what was it she had to "think about" when deciding between the two of them. I mean there was SO many red flags, not to mention the possible assault that we glazed right over.
I get Maggie was a plus sized girl who loved food but omg it was over done ! Food started to feel like it was one of the main characters I read about it so much. I cringed when Maggie would insist on having specific food when it was being delivered as a kind gesture.
The side characters fell a little flat for me & I wasn't that big a fan of their friendship. They didn't seem to have that special bond/connection that I feel when I read other books
In the end I didn't think Maggie deserved to have either of the guys and needed to do a little self reflection. Especially not a guy like Garrett.
A few things I did like about the book Is that it was an easy read that flowed pretty well, the queer & plus sized rep, and THE SPICE . The spice was well done and exciting.
I personally wouldn't recommend this one & don't think I'll think about it too much longer
This was a very problematic read imo. I definitely thought the FMC was annoying and apparently so did her friends. Between her best friend and the eligible doctor I didn't think there was any real competition. I found myself wondering so many times what was it she had to "think about" when deciding between the two of them. I mean there was SO many red flags, not to mention the possible assault that we glazed right over.
I get Maggie was a plus sized girl who loved food but omg it was over done ! Food started to feel like it was one of the main characters I read about it so much. I cringed when Maggie would insist on having specific food when it was being delivered as a kind gesture.
The side characters fell a little flat for me & I wasn't that big a fan of their friendship. They didn't seem to have that special bond/connection that I feel when I read other books
In the end I didn't think Maggie deserved to have either of the guys and needed to do a little self reflection. Especially not a guy like Garrett.
A few things I did like about the book Is that it was an easy read that flowed pretty well, the queer & plus sized rep, and THE SPICE . The spice was well done and exciting.
I personally wouldn't recommend this one & don't think I'll think about it too much longer
March 12, 2024
Taj McCoy's "The Good Ones" is like a rom-com rollercoaster you never want to get off!
Maggie's on a quest for Prince Charming after a not-so-great breakup, but her BFF dropping the L-bomb complicates things. The whole "friends-to-lovers" gig is a messy, hilarious ride, and I am here for it!
Her pals, Savvy and Joan, crank up the pressure for her to snag a wedding-worthy date. Online dating ensues, with a parade of maybes and a chorus of hell noes. When she's ready to chuck it all, she enters the swoon-worthy doctor from the gym. Cue the butterflies!
But wait, there's drama from her college bud, Garrett, who's the buzzkill pointing out red flags left and right. The tension hits its peak when he spills the beans—it turns out he's got feelings for Maggie. Plot twist!
Now, Maggie's got a choice to make – Mr. Perfect or her ride-or-die friendship with Garrett. It's like a rom-com version of a Choose Your Adventure book, and I'm hooked! Taj McCoy, you've served up a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud masterpiece that's one for the rom-com Hall of Fame. Grab your popcorn and dive into "The Good Ones" ASAP!
Maggie's on a quest for Prince Charming after a not-so-great breakup, but her BFF dropping the L-bomb complicates things. The whole "friends-to-lovers" gig is a messy, hilarious ride, and I am here for it!
Her pals, Savvy and Joan, crank up the pressure for her to snag a wedding-worthy date. Online dating ensues, with a parade of maybes and a chorus of hell noes. When she's ready to chuck it all, she enters the swoon-worthy doctor from the gym. Cue the butterflies!
But wait, there's drama from her college bud, Garrett, who's the buzzkill pointing out red flags left and right. The tension hits its peak when he spills the beans—it turns out he's got feelings for Maggie. Plot twist!
Now, Maggie's got a choice to make – Mr. Perfect or her ride-or-die friendship with Garrett. It's like a rom-com version of a Choose Your Adventure book, and I'm hooked! Taj McCoy, you've served up a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud masterpiece that's one for the rom-com Hall of Fame. Grab your popcorn and dive into "The Good Ones" ASAP!
March 21, 2024
I truly adore Taj McCoy and her writing. I always fall in love with her stories of romance and I read this one in 24 hours! Couldn’t put it down! If you read “Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell”, you will know a few of these characters including the main character, Maggie.
Maggie’s bffs Savvy, Beth and Joanie are in amazing relationships and engaged (Beth and Joanie to one another) and she is going through a breakup with a man she that was her forever. Holding her up during this breakup, her best friends including her college bff Garrett, support her when she tries dating again including online dating. Struggling to find a good match, she meets the perfect guy at the gym. But can anyone be perfect? Or could her perfect person be closer than she thinks?
I’m trying to not give as much as I’ve given in past reviews because sometimes I feel like I told y’all the whole story🤣 This book me think, reflect and laugh (there’s a part about Yung Miami in there and I was cackling). Definitely recommend you swoop this one up!
Maggie’s bffs Savvy, Beth and Joanie are in amazing relationships and engaged (Beth and Joanie to one another) and she is going through a breakup with a man she that was her forever. Holding her up during this breakup, her best friends including her college bff Garrett, support her when she tries dating again including online dating. Struggling to find a good match, she meets the perfect guy at the gym. But can anyone be perfect? Or could her perfect person be closer than she thinks?
I’m trying to not give as much as I’ve given in past reviews because sometimes I feel like I told y’all the whole story🤣 This book me think, reflect and laugh (there’s a part about Yung Miami in there and I was cackling). Definitely recommend you swoop this one up!
October 5, 2024
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Maggie and Garrett. It was so clear how deeply Garrett loved her, even when she was frustrating and a bit much to handle. Seeing two incredible men fighting for her heart was like a dream come true. The friends-to-lovers storyline was well done, making this a fun read.
October 28, 2024
The MC was a bit annoying. I really didn’t understand why she was so torn between Blake & Garrett. Blake literally did nothing but have a nice house and a great job, Garrett was literally her dream man don’t understand why it was so hard to choose.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2024
⭐️ 3.45
It’s a cute story with one sided insta love which was done well 💕💕💕
Also showing two good options but girl I had my team quick. Surely when I suddenly heard a groan from one guy in seconds (through my headphones). It shocked me and their for made me love because it felt out of nowhere/quick.
- “good girl” 🤢 (sorry not for me, after 50% it’s used… a lot)
- the foods mentioned in the books sounds so good 😋
🎧 audiobook
It’s a cute story with one sided insta love which was done well 💕💕💕
Also showing two good options but girl I had my team quick. Surely when I suddenly heard a groan from one guy in seconds (through my headphones). It shocked me and their for made me love because it felt out of nowhere/quick.
- “good girl” 🤢 (sorry not for me, after 50% it’s used… a lot)
- the foods mentioned in the books sounds so good 😋
🎧 audiobook
November 4, 2024
it’s no secret that it’s a rare occurrence i pick up a romance book and even rarer that i end up really liking it, so my rating of this isn’t exactly shocking. the sad thing is that i thought the premise sounded really good and i was excited to see if all the fuss about the friends to lovers trope was actually justified, but to say i was disappointed would be an understatement. i don’t even mind an unlikable main character, but when they’re both unlikable and make dumb decisions as if they have no common sense, which was the case with maggie, i start to feel like my time is being wasted and intellect undermined, to be fair. with this book, i’d be lying if i said it was hard to get through, but i couldn’t even focus on the parts that were done well because of how frustratingly immature and bitter the main character was.
the first thing that irked me was how oblivious maggie was. it wasn’t even an endearing kind of obliviousness but the one that annoys you because everything is glaringly obvious to everyone but the one person it should be most obvious to. perhaps the author thought it would be quirky to paint maggie as this clueless character, a bit lost without the guidance and support of her friends, but i just found it all insufferable because none of the characters were teenagers, yet they acted like ones more often than not. what i found hard to understand was how quickly she fell for blake, especially because he acted similar to the guys she went on dates with and wasn’t interested in. compared to the friendship she shared with garrett, maggie’s relationship with blake fell flat for me because he really wasn’t all that, plus she had no character development whatsoever. for whatever reason, she seemed to think that there was no reason for her to change or improve because the right guy would come eventually and be willing to put up with her. for me, this was a major turn-off and i couldn’t even root for her because she was self-centered and uninterested in compromise.
although the banter between maggie and her friends seemed natural and their relationships sincere, i couldn’t help but feel that her storyline with garrett wasn’t paced well. at the beginning, it moved too slowly and there wasn’t much to indicate that they’d end up together, even though i knew it was the only possible outcome. when it came time for garrett’s love confession, however, it was incorporated a bit clumsily into the whole plot and the revelation, although expected, felt underwhelming. i didn’t like that it took maggie the whole damn book to realize garrett was in love with her because it wasn’t realistic, considering they’d been best friends practically their whole lives and knew each other in and out. what was even more frustrating was that it was only after garrett’s confession that maggie realized what her own feelings towards him were, as if she’d never allowed herself to even entertain the possibility before. it never seemed like maggie would actually have to make a conscious choice between the two guys because her scenes with garrett were infinitely better and it was only a matter of time when she would come to her senses and realize, as cliché as it sounds, what has been in front of her all along.
1.5🌟 rounded up - sadly, i don’t think i’m cut out for any novel where it’s all sunshine and rainbows, which is exactly the kind of book this was, and i’m yet to find a romance book that’s a bit more nuanced and not so, well, amateurish.
the first thing that irked me was how oblivious maggie was. it wasn’t even an endearing kind of obliviousness but the one that annoys you because everything is glaringly obvious to everyone but the one person it should be most obvious to. perhaps the author thought it would be quirky to paint maggie as this clueless character, a bit lost without the guidance and support of her friends, but i just found it all insufferable because none of the characters were teenagers, yet they acted like ones more often than not. what i found hard to understand was how quickly she fell for blake, especially because he acted similar to the guys she went on dates with and wasn’t interested in. compared to the friendship she shared with garrett, maggie’s relationship with blake fell flat for me because he really wasn’t all that, plus she had no character development whatsoever. for whatever reason, she seemed to think that there was no reason for her to change or improve because the right guy would come eventually and be willing to put up with her. for me, this was a major turn-off and i couldn’t even root for her because she was self-centered and uninterested in compromise.
although the banter between maggie and her friends seemed natural and their relationships sincere, i couldn’t help but feel that her storyline with garrett wasn’t paced well. at the beginning, it moved too slowly and there wasn’t much to indicate that they’d end up together, even though i knew it was the only possible outcome. when it came time for garrett’s love confession, however, it was incorporated a bit clumsily into the whole plot and the revelation, although expected, felt underwhelming. i didn’t like that it took maggie the whole damn book to realize garrett was in love with her because it wasn’t realistic, considering they’d been best friends practically their whole lives and knew each other in and out. what was even more frustrating was that it was only after garrett’s confession that maggie realized what her own feelings towards him were, as if she’d never allowed herself to even entertain the possibility before. it never seemed like maggie would actually have to make a conscious choice between the two guys because her scenes with garrett were infinitely better and it was only a matter of time when she would come to her senses and realize, as cliché as it sounds, what has been in front of her all along.
1.5🌟 rounded up - sadly, i don’t think i’m cut out for any novel where it’s all sunshine and rainbows, which is exactly the kind of book this was, and i’m yet to find a romance book that’s a bit more nuanced and not so, well, amateurish.
February 14, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for access to this eARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
And honestly, I disliked this book. From the very first page, I wasn't entertained. I didn't like the writing. There is far too much detail. And yes, I'm an adult, and this is a romance. But the way the bodies were described, it was like things I read when I was a teenager. And unfortunately, that isn't a compliment.
The dialogue felt off to me. The characters weren't interesting or loveable. I didn't even really like them. I just didn't care.
I can't recommend this book to anyone. I really wanted to like it, and the cover is stunning, but this didn't grab me. There were just so many things about it that I couldn't that I didn't like or enjoy.
Maybe her next book will be better but I don't think this author is for me.
Authors, please stop adding so much unnecessary detail. It was such a slog to get through.
1 star.
And honestly, I disliked this book. From the very first page, I wasn't entertained. I didn't like the writing. There is far too much detail. And yes, I'm an adult, and this is a romance. But the way the bodies were described, it was like things I read when I was a teenager. And unfortunately, that isn't a compliment.
The dialogue felt off to me. The characters weren't interesting or loveable. I didn't even really like them. I just didn't care.
I can't recommend this book to anyone. I really wanted to like it, and the cover is stunning, but this didn't grab me. There were just so many things about it that I couldn't that I didn't like or enjoy.
Maybe her next book will be better but I don't think this author is for me.
Authors, please stop adding so much unnecessary detail. It was such a slog to get through.
1 star.
January 11, 2024
Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA and NetGalley provided an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
This book did not for hit the mark for me. The pacing was too slow, the FMC wasn’t likable, and there was too much superfluous detail that didn’t advance the main plot at all.
This book did not for hit the mark for me. The pacing was too slow, the FMC wasn’t likable, and there was too much superfluous detail that didn’t advance the main plot at all.
May 26, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I wanted to like this book more than I did but there’s somethings that didn’t quite connect for me. It’ll start with the pros I enjoyed the pop culture references, the banter was funny and Maggie’s story is very relatable and definitely feels real. The cons are Maggie and Garett lacked chemistry for me. I’m not opposed to friends with lovers when it’s done right but it didn’t feel like they had chemistry at all. Also, Garett, relax! Let my good sis come to a decision on her own.
Still a decent read though.
I wanted to like this book more than I did but there’s somethings that didn’t quite connect for me. It’ll start with the pros I enjoyed the pop culture references, the banter was funny and Maggie’s story is very relatable and definitely feels real. The cons are Maggie and Garett lacked chemistry for me. I’m not opposed to friends with lovers when it’s done right but it didn’t feel like they had chemistry at all. Also, Garett, relax! Let my good sis come to a decision on her own.
Still a decent read though.
March 28, 2025
3.75 rounded up to 4
Maggie was super annoying as the FMC and it was frustrating that she had so many character flaws. She was a difficult person to root for. Plus it was sooo obvious that Maggie wasn’t into Blake but was just denying her feelings for Garrett. The book could’ve been done at the 70% mark but alas the drama of the third act had to take place lol
Still, I enjoyed the overall story and the friends-to-lovers trope was done really well.
In terms of spice, there were maybe 2-3 scenes that really brought the heat, but not overbearingly so.
Maggie was super annoying as the FMC and it was frustrating that she had so many character flaws. She was a difficult person to root for. Plus it was sooo obvious that Maggie wasn’t into Blake but was just denying her feelings for Garrett. The book could’ve been done at the 70% mark but alas the drama of the third act had to take place lol
Still, I enjoyed the overall story and the friends-to-lovers trope was done really well.
In terms of spice, there were maybe 2-3 scenes that really brought the heat, but not overbearingly so.
April 21, 2024
This book had everything in it…friendship, love, comedy, romance, a lil spice. This friends to lovers romantic comedy is a slow burn romance, but keeps you interested throughout the book! Mags and Garrett are just so adorable. I did cry a little about 75% of the way through, but no outright bawling (lol). If you like a slow burn rom-com with a lil spice, then I would highly recommend this book!!
Read
March 12, 2025Yeah, no. I don't think Taj McCoy writing is for me. Lord knows I've tried! Time of death 71%. I really cba reading about her making both of these men basically audition for the role of boyfriend
June 6, 2024
The Good Ones are Taken is the latest offering from author Taj McCoy. This novel introduces us to Maggie. Maggie is on the heels of a bad breakup and is beginning to lose hope on ever finding her happily ever after. Her friends talk her into joining a dating app and so begins the search for Mr. Right.
This story was cute, flirty, and fun. There were definitely some laugh out loud moments. I knew who I was rooting for very early on. Maggie was definitely feeling the pressure of being the only single friend in her friend group. And speaking of her friend group, I loved the sisterhood that they shared. They were rooting for Maggie all the way, even though there were more than a few instances of Maggie comparing herself to where they were in life. I would have loved more scenes between Maggie and Mr. Right to help build on their chemistry but overall, I enjoyed this romcom and found it relatable as well as realistic.
This story was cute, flirty, and fun. There were definitely some laugh out loud moments. I knew who I was rooting for very early on. Maggie was definitely feeling the pressure of being the only single friend in her friend group. And speaking of her friend group, I loved the sisterhood that they shared. They were rooting for Maggie all the way, even though there were more than a few instances of Maggie comparing herself to where they were in life. I would have loved more scenes between Maggie and Mr. Right to help build on their chemistry but overall, I enjoyed this romcom and found it relatable as well as realistic.
January 26, 2024
All the Single Ladies will relate to this book!
I was grateful to read an Arc of The Good Ones are Taken and I had so much fun doing so!
Maggie is such a relatable character, especially being the only single friend out of her friend group. You are rooting for her to find her one true match, and laughing alone the way at all the shenanigans that Tinder puts you through.
Garrett has you swooning and smiling from ear to ear! If this man exists in real life, please let me know.
The Good Ones are Taken is a perfect book for the romcom lovers, you won’t want to put it down and it might make you want to redownload Tinder. 😉
I was grateful to read an Arc of The Good Ones are Taken and I had so much fun doing so!
Maggie is such a relatable character, especially being the only single friend out of her friend group. You are rooting for her to find her one true match, and laughing alone the way at all the shenanigans that Tinder puts you through.
Garrett has you swooning and smiling from ear to ear! If this man exists in real life, please let me know.
The Good Ones are Taken is a perfect book for the romcom lovers, you won’t want to put it down and it might make you want to redownload Tinder. 😉
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