The Marriage Narrative

by Claire Kann

A love just for show grows into something more in this swoonworthy romance from the author of The Romantic Agenda.

Zinnia is an ambitious, successful businesswoman who is not about to wait around for her One True Love. She turns her dating profile into a marriage-merger a few strategic meetings, move in together, get married—all within thirty days. Her friends think it will never work… until she meets Jordan, a near-perfect applicant with a big secret.

Jordan’s family has spent the last decade starring in a massively popular reality show about their lives. He has finally agreed to join the cast, but production wants him to marry an actress (his ex) in a romantic storyline to boost viewership.

Convinced Zinnia is perfect for the role instead, Jordan proposes a mutually beneficial marriage she gets her business partner husband, and he gets to help his family on his terms. Together they face strict schedules, wild plot twists, and behind-the-scenes hostilities, all while acting like besotted newlyweds—an intense performance that evolves into a relationship they never expected.

As the line between reality and show blurs, Zinnia and Jordan must choose between a clean contract or a beautifully messy love story.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Adult, Marriage Of Convenience, Fiction, Audiobook

Audible Audio

First published November 11, 2025

Reviews

[Iqra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading this book felt like having a fever dream lmao.

The fmc, zinnia, i adoreeeee her. She was so sweet but wasn’t afraid to tell it how it is. She’s so mature but so real as well 🤚 like this girl had her friends on speed dial for every minor inconvenience 😭😭 I was like yes girl get that support 😛

The mmc was pathetic and I really don’t know if I liked it? I mean it was cute and everything but like he gave me loser vibes idkkkk

The storyline was ??? I mean.. it was entertaining for sure I just don’t think it worked in the way it had the potential to.

ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Headline Eternal for the ARC! ♥︎

[Shawnaci Schroeder · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/5
This was a cute read! If you love reading books about reality tv, you’ll enjoy this one. Love how you could really see that both characters were trying so hard to keep their feelings at bay! Such a cute one!

[kimberly ☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ohhhh i had a really good time with this one!

[KiKi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was ok. I really wish the romance played a bigger part between the two love interests as opposed to Jordan's horrible family taking center stage. Their drama was so...boring and ended taking up a majority of the plot. Zinnia at times felt a little underdeveloped and I wanted her desire to find a partner to come from more than her not wanting to feel left behind because her two friends were falling in love with each other. Overall, an instamarriage did add some layers but again this needed more romance.

[Nada A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the premise and the chemistry between the characters was there but I felt like that should’ve been explored a little more. The plot could’ve gone downhill but frankly it was well executed and pacing and characterization were great so I found myself staying up to finish the book to see where it would go. The ending was rushed and I needed to see more conflict (and then resolution) with the mom but the book still hit regardless.

[Asia · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5/5

The FMC is frustrating. She's what, 25? And she acts like a 16-year-old child.

So she wants to get married after first date because her best friends are in love and she doesn't want to be a third wheel. jesus. Okay, fine. It's stupid and I rolled my eyes more than once, but fine, okay.

BUT. She wants to marry for convenience, doesn't want to fall in love, and wants the marriage to help her get customers for ehr small business. But when MMC proposes that marriage, when he tells her that he needs a wife of convenience and his popularity will bring those customers to her, she's suddenly no longer interested... Why? Because he doesn't want to fall in love with her?

And she thinks he's lying. Even though he has evidence that he's telling the truth that his family is Kardashian kind famous, she's like "you're lying! You're only trying to make fun of me!" It came compeltely out of nowwhere and she really acted like a 5 year old child, So annoying and frustrating, ughhhhh.

Like he even told you his famous sister is pregnant! Something he wouldn't have done as a joke because he loves his sister and she wants to keep it a secret! And you still think he's lying to you?? What the hell??

It's like the book starts one storyline or the idea and then doesn't follow through. Oh, they're suppsoed to be lovey-dovey for the cameras but they're not and for like 20% of the book nobody finds it weird or comment on it, until the author finally rememebrs "hey, this is a fake relationship romance". They click at her instead of talking to her and Jordan is super angry but the book ignores this and doesn't explain it at all even when it's from his point of view.

Most of the book ios also "tell, don't show" which I hate. There's a lot of talk bout what happened, but in past tense - none of these things happen on screen, especially in the second half when they're home. We need to see Jordan and Zinna get closer and start merging their life and spend time together in order to believe their fake relationship becoming real, but none of them is on screen. Except for one short grocery scene, everything else is mentioned in one sentence. Makes no sense whatsoever. How am I supposed to believe that they're falling in love for real when you don't even give me any scenes of them together?

The OW drama came out of nowhere and had no leg to stand on. The ending was so stupid too, because what do you mean that the man who left his family because he hated the reality show and only came back temporarily to protect his sister is now considering having his own reality show?? Are you kidding me??? And Zinna ALSO hated being recorded and now she's suddenly all in? Fuck that shit.

Also, Zinnia's obsession with her friends being together was so tiring, jist give it up already for heaven's sake.

I didn't believe their love story at all. So much was all unsaid or happened off-screen, it was stupid. Even the reality show aspect was bad and it never felt real. When they finally confessed their love at the end, I didn't feel anything and didn't believe that because there's no foundation for them. They're suddenly in love but where was this earlier? Where was the taking care for each other and quiet moments and anything at all? Not in this book.

Tropes:
- fake relationship
- marriage of convenience
- reality show
- opposites attract
- grumpy and sunshine

[Mel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think fans of the Kardashians would probably enjoy this book way more than I did. There was a lot about this book that felt artificial and inauthentic, and the way that Jordan's family treats Zinnia was shockingly rude, especially the twins. And Jordan kept throwing her into situations without giving her any kind of a heads up and it didn't feel like he was really looking out for her even though he claimed she was his number one priority. I don't think I like romance novels that are inspired by this kind of reality tv - if it's a competition or a dating show, sure but one that just followed this family around and made up storylines for them wasn't really my jam.

ARC from publisher, review is all mine.

[Mai H.]

Black History Month TBR

Valentine's Day TBR

📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley

[X]

DNF on p. 40. A fantastic premise, but the way the characters seem to have bought so unquestioningly into a certain type of marketing/business mindset as their primary way of interacting with the world, and the way that mindset is presented without critique (at least from what I’ve read of it) - I can’t quite suspend disbelief. Or I guess I believe that there are people who think this way, but it’s not enjoyable or relatable or escapist to read about them.

I did however LOVE the idea that this protagonist has come up with her arranged marriage scheme because she’s afraid her two best friends will eventually admit they’re in love with each other and she’ll be stuck as their third wheel. So *deeply* realistic and yet it feels so fresh at the same time.

[Fernanda (ivyfer_isreading)]

DNF 30%
I avoid DNF'ing books but I really didn't like this and I don't see it getting better anytime soon.
The concept is great but it ended there.

[nosha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

This one gave me mixed emotions. There were definitely some cute, buzzy moments with the flirting and banter (that I absolutely loved), but it often felt like the MMC was the only one truly affected by it afterward. The FMC came across as pretty nonchalant most of the time, so I had a hard time gauging if she actually liked him until the very end. I also wish the MMC had defended her more against his family …which irritated me.

There were stretches where I was really into the book, and then other times where I found myself a little bored. And with no epilogue, the ending felt like it needed just a bit more to wrap everything up . Overall, not a bad read, but it didn’t fully hit the mark for me.

[Maaike · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had such a fun time with this book! I loved how it was something a bit different with the fmc looking for an arrangement and that combined with the reality show aspect was just really enjoyable. The characters were really interesting and fun to get to know as well and the side characters felt really real and also actually added something to the story.

It did feel a bit unrealistic at times, which was fine, but sometimes also made it a bit hard to get fully invested in the story. Zinnia's reactions compared to what happened sometimes came across as a bit mellow when I would've been screaming lol. I feel like she could've used a few extra pages to delve a bit deeper into what was going on and their emotions surrounding it.

I did have a really good time reading it and would definitely recommend if you love reality tv and a good amount of drama.

Thank you NetGalley and Headline for the arc.

[Martynka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super super super 💃🏼

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the free book, Berkley Romance!

In this contemporary rom com, Zinnia is ambitious and driven, tired of being alone but wanting more than a fling. She decides she wants a business arrangement but as a marriage- which coincidentally is just what Jordan needs. He’s been carrying a big secret- he is the out-of-the-spotlight son of reality tv’s biggest family. He’s got to cover for his sister by bringing a new storyline to the show- and newlyweds are the perfect cover.

This was such a fun and unique concept for a rom com. I loved that Jordan was smitten with Zinnia from the start, but she needed convincing. The reality tv plot line was beyond entertaining, and Jordan’s family was something else! It’s the best kind of messy, dramatic, and over the top in a way that only a romantic comedy can get away with while still being somehow authentic-feeling. I really enjoyed this one and will be sure to check out the author’s future work! Reality tv fans, forced proximity lovers, and those he enjoy the “he falls first and harder” trope will love this book.

[Abi · Rating 3 out of 5]

My rating 3.5 ⭐

Let me first start by saying that this is my first book I have read by Claire Kann and I think she is a great story teller. The story was engaging and the stunning cover caught my attention. I was intrigued by Zinnia's quest for a partner to enter a marriage of convenience that felt like she was looking for a business partner rather than a love match. Zinnia can be described as a pure sunshine character but at times she came across as naive. I enjoyed reading about the friendship between Zinnia and her two best friends, who acted as the voice of reason when it seemed Zinnia didn't really think through what a marriage of convenience would entail with a stranger. We meet Jordan and he seems to check off everything on the list that Zinnia is looking for in a partner to enter a marriage contract. Jordan's reason to get married is to be part of the reality TV show featuring his parents and siblings.

While I thought Zinnia and Jordan had great chemistry, I felt the romantic build up of their relationship wasn't explored enough. Entering the reality TV show, Jordan's family drama was too much front and centre. His family didn't treat Zinnia well and I felt Jordan was too passive and didn't defend her when needed. The negativity of the side characters was distracting. I feel the book still has lots of potential as it features two well developed characters and the story would have been more enjoyable in a different setting.

Thank you Berkley Publishing Group for the copy of this ARC.

[Sharonda Isadora · Rating 2 out of 5]

a strong 2.5

Zinnia doesn’t believe in love per se and decides to enter into a marriage through a contract. For her, it’s all purely business. She also low-key doesn’t want to be a third wheel to her two friends, who she is convinced will eventually profess their undying love for each other (although they never do).

The story had potential, but if I’m being honest (and I generally am), it suffered from too much telling and not enough showing. Do we see a relationship being built between Jordan and Zinnia? Sure, but the development of their romance was overshadowed by Jordan's very popular reality-TV family and their drama. Too many subplots were introduced but never fully explored or resolved.

Jordan's mother came off as passive-aggressive, giving off strong "white mom with biracial kids" vibes. I did not like her at all. Furthermore, it didn’t make sense for Jordan to keep his family a secret and lie to Zinnia. I mean, my guy, you agreed to a marriage by contract with a stranger!

The subplot involving his ex-girlfriend felt ridiculous and unnecessary. I understand it was meant to create family drama for the sake of the TV show, but it was just another annoying side plot, and I really didn’t care for it.

By the end of this read, I found myself wanting to just finish the book. The passive-aggressive remarks directed at Zinnia, the ambiguity surrounding Jordan and his family, and the fact that these were supposed to be grown adults who often read like coming-of-age teenagers—none of it worked for me. A barely there romance.... But since the author wrote for a YA audience, that makes sense.

Overall, The Marriage Narrative is an okay read and might be more appealing to younger readers.

thank you to the publisher for the opportunity read and review.

[Eros Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Waiting around for the love of my life to show up has gotten me nowhere. That’s why this year I plan to marry a complete stranger.”

If you are looking for a slow burn, marriage of convenience romance with minimal spice then this is the book for you!

The reality TV storyline was messily entertaining. The family dynamics will make you consider how you’d personally handle the situations that the FMC finds herself in. The MMC and the FMCs friends were my favorite characters. They really pulled the story together and made it more interesting. I loved the anxiety representation and the banter between the characters; it felt realistic.

My only dislikes about this book were the FMCs personality. Her strong dependency was cringy. Most of the book didn’t feel like the MCs were grown. We didn’t get their ages in the book but they were older than what their romance gave. The MMC is lovable & I think that pushed the predictable ending towards making sense. But, their chemistry felt childish. Both parties desired a marriage-merger but tiptoed around the main goal… it was strange.

Overall, this is a cute palate cleanser romance.
I wouldn’t reread this.
But, I would read other books from the author.

[Temi (temisreads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️
a cute marriage of convenience story but just didn't connect to these characters as much as i was hoping i would!

[Knightshereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5✨

[Mary Gael · Rating 3 out of 5]

love a pathetic loser love interest god bless

[Alex · Rating 2 out of 5]

Before Jordan’s family was introduced, I was rating this book 4 or 5 stars because I loved it immediately. Once his family came into the picture, though, my rating dropped to 3 stars. Jordan’s family’s behavior was ridiculous, especially the twins. Jordan was a grown man who let his family stress him out, intimidate him, and treat Zinnia any way they wanted, and most of the time it was extremely rude and unacceptable. Any time Jordan did try to defend Zinnia, it was unimpressive. It’s truly amazing how fast my interest waned once I was firmly in the reality show aspect of the book. It was so boring. There was no chemistry or romance to be found. There were so many moments that left me asking, “…what?”

Zinnia acted more like a teenager than an adult, and she second-guessed herself so much that it was exhausting. After Zinnia and Jordan’s initial obligation to shoot the reality show ended, the remainder of the book did not improve, and I struggled to get to the end. Corny dialogue and cringeworthy moments, especially any scenes with Bea. 2.5 stars. Possibly the biggest rating drop-off of any book I’ve read.

[Lauren (lololovesthings) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars.

I have mixed feelings about Claire Kann's "The Marriage Narrative." The premise is pretty unique and quite engaging at the start, but the longer it went on, the more I lost interest in it as a whole. This is not because the main characters are bad, because they aren't at all, but because it feels like a story that's overly long and still amounts to nothing, saying a lot without producing anything substantial at the end. I liked Zinnia and Jordan's dynamic at first. They are quite smitten with one another despite their mutual insistence that their marriage of convenience is just that, a contract and nothing more. They have some good banter with one another and even a little bit of fiery chemistry. Unfortunately, the story is quite repetitive in terms of its content. Since it relies on Jordan's family and their Kardashian-esque reality TV show (they are super-mega-famous!), a lot of the situations tend to repeat themselves, feel inauthentic, and are frequently blown out of proportion for ratings and the cameras. Their grandiose drama completely overshadows Zinnia and Jordan's relationship, individualities, and their budding romance. This is also the thing I liked least about the book. I am all for drama, but it feels so over-the-top that I rolled my eyes on multiple occasions. It's the exact reason I don't watch reality TV. It's too much "rewarding bad people for their bad behavior" for me. The reality TV dramatics take up the majority of the story, leaving little to nothing for Zinnia and Jordan. On top of this, I absolutely hated the way Jordan's family treated Zinnia from the get-go. My god, they were the WORST, most HORRIBLE people to her, and for NO REASON! It made it difficult to want to continue to read about them, especially since they take up so much of the novel. Like I said, this is a mixed bag. I preferred Kann's other novel "The Romantic Agenda."

Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Kann, and Berkley Publishing Group for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

[florence · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This was really cute, and if you want a sweet low stakes, celebrity, marriage of convenience romance you would probably really enjoy this.

This was fun, it wasn’t quite what I expected from the synopsis, Zinnia was completely different than I had imagined her to be, but once I was in it I enjoyed it. I think it was probably the description of her as a business woman that threw me, because yes she is, but also she’s more than that and is an artist rather than anything else.

So what did annoy me was how much of a doormat Jordan was almost all the time. He was strong willed enough to break up with his long term girlfriend because he didn’t want to do the show, but when it came to protecting his wife from his family he did nothing. I just wanted him to actually confront them, because even after Zinnia put everyone in their place the second his sister came up with another plan to protect herself and push Jordan and Zinnia into the spotlight he just agreed. I wanted more pushback, I wanted him to stand up for her, and to really show how much he loved her.

[kiara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Berkley Romance & Netgalley for the eARC!!

3.5 stars!

I think this was such a cute book! I feel like if you're a fan of reality tv, you'll really enjoy this one! I really loved the marriage of convenience trope in this, and thought it was a fun new take on the trope! I absolutely adored Zinnia, I think she was so funny & sweet. I loved the flirty banter she had with Jordan!! Their first kiss was everything!! 🔥 I loved the instant chemistry.

Overall, I think this is a nice fast paced romance that lovers of reality tv & the marriage of convenience trope will devour!!

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this in a giveaway.

[Ayushi (bookwormbullet) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Kann's most romantic book yet! 4.25 stars rounded up

[Raquel Bonelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

actual rating: 2,5

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I NEED MORE

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

last book of the year and it's such a flawless romance

[Carmen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️