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Managing the Matthews
Nothing’s real on reality TV—or is it?
Everyone knows Kell Simmons manages the Matthews brothers, the three hottest stars in action hero Ryan, romantic lead Ash, and sports star Jonah. But no one knows that she’s hopelessly in love with one of them.
When Ryan’s surprise engagement to a fan just about breaks Kell’s heart, Ash, himself unhappily in love, lends his shoulder to cry on. All this is great fodder for the brothers' very own reality TV show, and soon the days of their lives are filled with scripted dates, fake drama, and real heartache—all in front of a camera.
As the brothers’ popularity skyrockets into the stratosphere, Kell finds herself wondering how much, if any, of the spotlight she wants, if it means foregoing real love for fun and games on TV.
Everyone knows Kell Simmons manages the Matthews brothers, the three hottest stars in action hero Ryan, romantic lead Ash, and sports star Jonah. But no one knows that she’s hopelessly in love with one of them.
When Ryan’s surprise engagement to a fan just about breaks Kell’s heart, Ash, himself unhappily in love, lends his shoulder to cry on. All this is great fodder for the brothers' very own reality TV show, and soon the days of their lives are filled with scripted dates, fake drama, and real heartache—all in front of a camera.
As the brothers’ popularity skyrockets into the stratosphere, Kell finds herself wondering how much, if any, of the spotlight she wants, if it means foregoing real love for fun and games on TV.
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First published August 15, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
September 3, 2023
3.5 rounded up.
This was a fun Jonas brothers-esque celebrity, friends to lovers, slow burn, fake dating, dual POV romance between Kell, the manager of a group of three famous actor brothers who gets wrapped up in fake dating one of them in an attempt to help them land a new reality tv show deal.
Unbeknownst to everyone though she's secretly had a long-time crush on action hero brother Ryan, while its the quieter brother Ash who's been in love with her all along. Full of pining, drama and real heart with great disability rep (she has Crohn's). I really enjoyed this latest from a new to me author that was also good on audio narrated by Lisa Larsen and Alex Knox.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I'm excited to read more by Haleigh Wenger and recommend this for fans of books like Dating you/hating you by Christina Lauren.
This was a fun Jonas brothers-esque celebrity, friends to lovers, slow burn, fake dating, dual POV romance between Kell, the manager of a group of three famous actor brothers who gets wrapped up in fake dating one of them in an attempt to help them land a new reality tv show deal.
Unbeknownst to everyone though she's secretly had a long-time crush on action hero brother Ryan, while its the quieter brother Ash who's been in love with her all along. Full of pining, drama and real heart with great disability rep (she has Crohn's). I really enjoyed this latest from a new to me author that was also good on audio narrated by Lisa Larsen and Alex Knox.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I'm excited to read more by Haleigh Wenger and recommend this for fans of books like Dating you/hating you by Christina Lauren.
August 5, 2023
TITLE: Managing The Matthews
AUTHOR: Haleigh Wenger
PUB DATE: 08.15.2023
Haleigh Wenger writes a entertaining slow burn romance in a friends to lovers trope set in a reality TV show backdrop about the Matthew brothers Ryan, Ash, and Jonah - and Kell Simmons - who is their manager. It is a charming read perfect for these hot summer days.
AUTHOR: Haleigh Wenger
PUB DATE: 08.15.2023
Haleigh Wenger writes a entertaining slow burn romance in a friends to lovers trope set in a reality TV show backdrop about the Matthew brothers Ryan, Ash, and Jonah - and Kell Simmons - who is their manager. It is a charming read perfect for these hot summer days.
May 26, 2023
Would you forgo love for fun? In this slow-burn romance, we meet Kell Simons, the manager of the Matthew brothers, and learn how she is hopelessly in love with one of them.
I loved the Hollywood premise, the fake dating, the drama, and the friendship. This book is also a dedication to the Jonas brothers, so it fits in with the whole reality TV drama. All in all, a nice beach or stress-free read.
3.5⭐️
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC
I loved the Hollywood premise, the fake dating, the drama, and the friendship. This book is also a dedication to the Jonas brothers, so it fits in with the whole reality TV drama. All in all, a nice beach or stress-free read.
3.5⭐️
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC
June 19, 2023
When I first read the plot of the book, I was hooked! Jonas Brothers-like romance, fake dating, and best friends to lovers? That sounds amazing! The execution, however, is a different story...
First, I want to address what I liked about this book. I liked all the characters and their subsequent relationships with each other. There were certain characters that I was so frustrated by, such as the fame-obsessed Ryan. I also was rooting for Kell and Ash to be successful in the end of the book. It was clear that they worked really hard, and I really wanted them to achieve their goals! This book was dual POV which is my kryptonite, and I felt like the main character's voices were distinct from each other and interesting. The characters were all the strongest point of the book.
The romance between Kell and Ash (...and Ryan cause LOVE triangle!) was just okay. At first, I felt the chemistry between the characters, especially the feelings that Ash had from an unrequited love with Kell. As the book went on, the sparks seemed to fizzle out. I didn't feel like Kell had the same feelings for Ash, even at the end. It made it hard to be rooting for them romantically.
I also found the technical side of the film industry really confusing, specifically Kell's role as manager. I want to say up front that I don't know much about the entertainment industry or how it works. At times, it felt like Kell was their manager and boss, while at other times, it seemed like Judith was Kell's boss. They talked a lot about how Kell was this amazing manager, but throughout the whole book, I don't think I actually witnessed her working. She was always getting information sprung on her or Judith was doing things for them. I am sure there was a hierarchy that is normal, but the lack of context for someone like me who doesn't know about that kind of work made the plot really confusing at times.
Speaking of plot, I wished that there was more of it. Not much happened other than tense conversations and Kell going back and forth between her apartment and the Matthews mansion. I wished that there had been more plot points or something memorable, but it wasn't the case. The whole book kind of blended together.
Overall, I really wanted to like this book. It had the makings of a great romance, but in the end, it was boring and slightly confusing.
*special thanks to Netgalley for giving me this ARC for an honest review.
First, I want to address what I liked about this book. I liked all the characters and their subsequent relationships with each other. There were certain characters that I was so frustrated by, such as the fame-obsessed Ryan. I also was rooting for Kell and Ash to be successful in the end of the book. It was clear that they worked really hard, and I really wanted them to achieve their goals! This book was dual POV which is my kryptonite, and I felt like the main character's voices were distinct from each other and interesting. The characters were all the strongest point of the book.
The romance between Kell and Ash (...and Ryan cause LOVE triangle!) was just okay. At first, I felt the chemistry between the characters, especially the feelings that Ash had from an unrequited love with Kell. As the book went on, the sparks seemed to fizzle out. I didn't feel like Kell had the same feelings for Ash, even at the end. It made it hard to be rooting for them romantically.
I also found the technical side of the film industry really confusing, specifically Kell's role as manager. I want to say up front that I don't know much about the entertainment industry or how it works. At times, it felt like Kell was their manager and boss, while at other times, it seemed like Judith was Kell's boss. They talked a lot about how Kell was this amazing manager, but throughout the whole book, I don't think I actually witnessed her working. She was always getting information sprung on her or Judith was doing things for them. I am sure there was a hierarchy that is normal, but the lack of context for someone like me who doesn't know about that kind of work made the plot really confusing at times.
Speaking of plot, I wished that there was more of it. Not much happened other than tense conversations and Kell going back and forth between her apartment and the Matthews mansion. I wished that there had been more plot points or something memorable, but it wasn't the case. The whole book kind of blended together.
Overall, I really wanted to like this book. It had the makings of a great romance, but in the end, it was boring and slightly confusing.
*special thanks to Netgalley for giving me this ARC for an honest review.
July 4, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC review opportunity! I really enjoyed this novel! I’ll go ahead and say that I hope the author writes a sequel (because there’s so much to explore what happens next after the book ends). It was a friends to lovers trope we all know and love, but also had a lot of really funny parts and really emotional parts woven throughout. Both of our main characters were kind and positive so they were fun to follow. I had no complaints about any parts of this book. It was a great, quick read that I think most will enjoy. Major Jonas Brothers vibes too for those mid-2000s fan girls. Rating: 4/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 8, 2023
Why fall in love with your best friend's brother when your best friend is sweet, gorgeous, and has been right in front of you the entire time? Managing the Matthews is a charming slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance with delicious tension and rarely explored Crohn's rep set against a Hollywood backdrop with a trio of brothers who can give the Hemsworth and Jonas siblings a run for their money. Put this one in your beach bag!
October 14, 2024
Managing the Matthews is more work than one person can handle. Kell needs a break, professionally and personally, from all the brothers.
The Matthews - Ryan, Ash, and Jonah - are Kell's clients. She handles their schedules while Judith, their agent, books them auditions/jobs. Ash and Kell have known each other since college, and they always said that their friendship would last beyond the professional relationship they have. Once Ryan starts playing a secretive game with Judith and Jonah can't seem to stop swearing on family TV stations, it's up to Kell to come to a decision if what she really wants is to manage the brothers anymore.
Through many miscommunications, this fake dating, friends-to-lovers, close proximity story is as much heartwarming as it is heartbreaking. Mental and physical health challenges are also at the forefront, taking this story up another notch. While complete character backgrounds aren't fully flushed out, there are enough personality traits described to make each character likeable and unlikeable in their own way.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
The Matthews - Ryan, Ash, and Jonah - are Kell's clients. She handles their schedules while Judith, their agent, books them auditions/jobs. Ash and Kell have known each other since college, and they always said that their friendship would last beyond the professional relationship they have. Once Ryan starts playing a secretive game with Judith and Jonah can't seem to stop swearing on family TV stations, it's up to Kell to come to a decision if what she really wants is to manage the brothers anymore.
Through many miscommunications, this fake dating, friends-to-lovers, close proximity story is as much heartwarming as it is heartbreaking. Mental and physical health challenges are also at the forefront, taking this story up another notch. While complete character backgrounds aren't fully flushed out, there are enough personality traits described to make each character likeable and unlikeable in their own way.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2023
Everyone knows Kell Simmons manages the Matthew brothers, the three hottest stars in Hollywood: action hero Ryan, romantic lead Ash, and sports star Jonah. But no one knows that she’s hopelessly in love with one of them.
When Ryan’s surprise engagement to a fan just about breaks Kell’s heart, Ash, himself unhappily in love, lends his shoulder to cry on. All this is great fodder for a reality TV show, one for which the brothers sign on for, and soon the days of their lives are filled with scripted dates, fake drama, and real heartache—all in front of a camera.
As the brothers’ popularity skyrockets into the stratosphere, Kell finds herself wondering how much, if any, of the spotlight she wants, if it means foregoing real love for fun and games on TV.
As a reality show addict, I loved this story. Perfect read for a dreary day. Will recommend to others.
When Ryan’s surprise engagement to a fan just about breaks Kell’s heart, Ash, himself unhappily in love, lends his shoulder to cry on. All this is great fodder for a reality TV show, one for which the brothers sign on for, and soon the days of their lives are filled with scripted dates, fake drama, and real heartache—all in front of a camera.
As the brothers’ popularity skyrockets into the stratosphere, Kell finds herself wondering how much, if any, of the spotlight she wants, if it means foregoing real love for fun and games on TV.
As a reality show addict, I loved this story. Perfect read for a dreary day. Will recommend to others.
July 12, 2023
Kell and Ash are longtime friends and professionally entangled along side Ash’s brothers in this story. This friends to lovers story was fun, well paced, and very entertaining— especially with the reality tv show storyline.
I enjoyed Managing the Matthews and adored Ash. I believed in Ash and Kell’s friendship which made the shift feel genuine when they finally allowed themselves to accept their feelings. I did not understand the infatuation with Ryan and felt his character needed more for that part to be understood. It also could have been better explained if Kell admitted to being into Ryan to distract from her subconscious feelings for his brother.
In the story, I did want to delve deeper into Jonah and Jessie and I was left wanting to give Ryan another chance in the right circumstance/storyline. So in saying that, I believe we can hear more from the Matthews in the form of redemption story for Ryan or hearing Jonah’s story— but we better get more of Ash and Kell if we get another glimpse! 3.5 🌟s rounded up.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me this ARC in exchange for my honest review
I enjoyed Managing the Matthews and adored Ash. I believed in Ash and Kell’s friendship which made the shift feel genuine when they finally allowed themselves to accept their feelings. I did not understand the infatuation with Ryan and felt his character needed more for that part to be understood. It also could have been better explained if Kell admitted to being into Ryan to distract from her subconscious feelings for his brother.
In the story, I did want to delve deeper into Jonah and Jessie and I was left wanting to give Ryan another chance in the right circumstance/storyline. So in saying that, I believe we can hear more from the Matthews in the form of redemption story for Ryan or hearing Jonah’s story— but we better get more of Ash and Kell if we get another glimpse! 3.5 🌟s rounded up.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me this ARC in exchange for my honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2023
When I heard this was Jonas Brothers inspired, I had to request the ARC! And although the three brothers in the book are actors, not musicians, I really enjoyed reading their story and getting a glimpse into their Hollywood life.
The romance was fun and sweet (friends-to-lovers, fake-dating, fade to black), and it left me wanting more! (Can we have a season 2, please? 😁)
The romance was fun and sweet (friends-to-lovers, fake-dating, fade to black), and it left me wanting more! (Can we have a season 2, please? 😁)
October 7, 2023
This was such a fun read! I could not read it fast enough. I’m a sucker for celeb romance books, and this one more than delivers. Kell (the female MC) is smart and sassy and so easy to root for. And Ash!!! So dreamy and sweet. I’ll be fangirling over this one for a long time!
April 22, 2023
3.5⭐️. Fairly okay.
April 30, 2023
When I saw the author’s dedication to the Jonas Brothers, I had a good feeling about this book!
Kell is the manager for a trio of brothers that are all actors in Hollywood. She and Ash, the middle brother, have been best friends since college, but up until now, she’s only been romantically interested in Ryan, the oldest brother. The story jumps between Kell and Ash’s narration as they navigate Hollywood and the filming of the brothers new reality show.
The storyline was predictable but incredibly enjoyable. I loved Kell’s character, particular the portrayal of her strength while navigating an autoimmune disease, which is something you don’t see often in stories.
My only critiques are that the timeline jumps between chapters was hard to follow at times and that I wish Ash’s narration hadn’t dropped off towards the end (I was super curious what he was going through during that time too).
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Kell is the manager for a trio of brothers that are all actors in Hollywood. She and Ash, the middle brother, have been best friends since college, but up until now, she’s only been romantically interested in Ryan, the oldest brother. The story jumps between Kell and Ash’s narration as they navigate Hollywood and the filming of the brothers new reality show.
The storyline was predictable but incredibly enjoyable. I loved Kell’s character, particular the portrayal of her strength while navigating an autoimmune disease, which is something you don’t see often in stories.
My only critiques are that the timeline jumps between chapters was hard to follow at times and that I wish Ash’s narration hadn’t dropped off towards the end (I was super curious what he was going through during that time too).
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
June 3, 2023
*Thank you to Haleigh Wenger, CamCat Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Kell is the manager of 3 brothers who are also big time Hollywood actors: Ryan, Ash, and Jonah. She’s also been best friends with Ash since college. After Ryan’s sudden engagement and the opportunity for a reality show, Kell and Ash have to navigate their own relationship.
I was beyond excited for this book. Jonas Brothers inspired characters? Friends to lovers? Fake dating? Dual POV? Sign me up. I really loved the characters and how the story outside of the romance developed. I don’t know how Haleigh Wenger did it but even the background characters bad development without it being distracting. I love how she creates a world and backgrounds.
However, it never really felt like the romance itself developed. The only reason I knew Ash was the eventual love interest is because his POV was part of it. Every step just felt like it had no lead up. Like there was one hint of something that felt out of the blue and then all of a sudden he was obsessed with her. I wanted to root for them through the build up and the pining but there just really wasn’t much for the first entire half of the book and then the rest felt rushed.
The story of everyone doing the reality show and working through a weird time to grow and get to where they wanted to be? Great! Super interesting! The story of their romance? Fine.
It wasn’t a bad book, I just wasn’t really rooting for them. If the pining and build up isn’t as important to you, I think you’ll love it. It just wasn’t there for me. However, if there’s follow up books about Jonah and Ryan I will still give those a shot.
Kell is the manager of 3 brothers who are also big time Hollywood actors: Ryan, Ash, and Jonah. She’s also been best friends with Ash since college. After Ryan’s sudden engagement and the opportunity for a reality show, Kell and Ash have to navigate their own relationship.
I was beyond excited for this book. Jonas Brothers inspired characters? Friends to lovers? Fake dating? Dual POV? Sign me up. I really loved the characters and how the story outside of the romance developed. I don’t know how Haleigh Wenger did it but even the background characters bad development without it being distracting. I love how she creates a world and backgrounds.
However, it never really felt like the romance itself developed. The only reason I knew Ash was the eventual love interest is because his POV was part of it. Every step just felt like it had no lead up. Like there was one hint of something that felt out of the blue and then all of a sudden he was obsessed with her. I wanted to root for them through the build up and the pining but there just really wasn’t much for the first entire half of the book and then the rest felt rushed.
The story of everyone doing the reality show and working through a weird time to grow and get to where they wanted to be? Great! Super interesting! The story of their romance? Fine.
It wasn’t a bad book, I just wasn’t really rooting for them. If the pining and build up isn’t as important to you, I think you’ll love it. It just wasn’t there for me. However, if there’s follow up books about Jonah and Ryan I will still give those a shot.
May 26, 2023
So excited for this book to be out in the world this year! MANAGING THE MATTHEWS is a book about moving on from heartbreak and realizing there was better right under your nose, about living happily and successfully with chronic illness, and about making your own way even if you have to change course a few times. Happy reading!
-Haleigh
-Haleigh
March 14, 2024
Relationships are hard sometimes
They are very hard especially in a Hollywood one! I didn’t like Kell and Ash’s breakup but I guess it had to happen for them to realize that bottling up your feelings is unhealthy mentally and physically. Ash always loved Kell and was patient with her and Kell finally sees it. Very good book, even though there are some cuss words in it.
They are very hard especially in a Hollywood one! I didn’t like Kell and Ash’s breakup but I guess it had to happen for them to realize that bottling up your feelings is unhealthy mentally and physically. Ash always loved Kell and was patient with her and Kell finally sees it. Very good book, even though there are some cuss words in it.
January 22, 2024
I was fortunate enough to work on developmental edits for an early version of this manuscript (pre-sale). I enjoyed the fresh, Hollywood premise and the realistic representation of autoimmune diseases, not to mention the sizzling chemistry between the two MCs.
June 2, 2023
Fake relationship with a long time friend now turned celebrity, what could go wrong?
This captivating novel gives us a look into the behind-the-scenes world of Hollywood, where the line between reality and fiction becomes blurred, and the quest for fame intertwines with the longing for genuine connection.
At the center of this engaging story is Kell Simmons, the talented and enigmatic manager of the Matthew brothers, three of the industry's most sought-after stars: Ryan, Ash, and Jonah. each with their own personal and professional struggles.
The brilliance of this novel lies in its exploration of the blurred lines between reality and performance. The balance between Ash and Kell's genuine emotions and the fabricated world they're creating for a reality show creates a compelling narrative.
Character development is one of the book's greatest strengths. Kell's journey of self-discovery is beautifully portrayed as she questions her desire for the spotlight while managing not only the brothers but also living with a chronic illness.
The Matthew brothers, each with their unique personalities, add depth and complexity to the story. It's impossible not to feel emotionally invested in their lives as they grapple with the consequences of their fame.
While this book is great in many aspects, some readers may find certain plot points predictable. However, to me this doesn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. It is a book that explores the complexities of love, fame, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment, leaving readers with a sense of hope and an appreciation for the power of genuine connections.
Managing the Matthews is a slowburn heartfelt romance that immerses readers in the enticing world of Hollywood. With its rich characters, compelling storyline, and exploration of the blurred lines between reality and performance, this book is perfect for fans of contemporary romance and those curious about the up- and downsides of fame.
I received this ARC though Netgalley
This captivating novel gives us a look into the behind-the-scenes world of Hollywood, where the line between reality and fiction becomes blurred, and the quest for fame intertwines with the longing for genuine connection.
At the center of this engaging story is Kell Simmons, the talented and enigmatic manager of the Matthew brothers, three of the industry's most sought-after stars: Ryan, Ash, and Jonah. each with their own personal and professional struggles.
The brilliance of this novel lies in its exploration of the blurred lines between reality and performance. The balance between Ash and Kell's genuine emotions and the fabricated world they're creating for a reality show creates a compelling narrative.
Character development is one of the book's greatest strengths. Kell's journey of self-discovery is beautifully portrayed as she questions her desire for the spotlight while managing not only the brothers but also living with a chronic illness.
The Matthew brothers, each with their unique personalities, add depth and complexity to the story. It's impossible not to feel emotionally invested in their lives as they grapple with the consequences of their fame.
While this book is great in many aspects, some readers may find certain plot points predictable. However, to me this doesn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. It is a book that explores the complexities of love, fame, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment, leaving readers with a sense of hope and an appreciation for the power of genuine connections.
Managing the Matthews is a slowburn heartfelt romance that immerses readers in the enticing world of Hollywood. With its rich characters, compelling storyline, and exploration of the blurred lines between reality and performance, this book is perfect for fans of contemporary romance and those curious about the up- and downsides of fame.
I received this ARC though Netgalley
April 12, 2023
This is Haleigh’s debut adult romance novel. I was a bit hesitant in reading but found this arc on netgalley.
1. Dedication to the Jonas bros 10/10
2. 1FMC / 3MMC (focused on Ash and Kell) chapters are dual POV
3. Friends to lovers / fake relationship / forced proximity
4. All bodies deserve romance. Chronic illness representation - i don’t think I’ve personally seen this in books
5. I love this isn’t a superficial “I’m an actor” in the MMC Ash, you get to see his methods and desire to grow out his current niche. He’s a method actor through and through. His struggles with accepting reality tv as not the “bottom” of his career
6. Love the established history noted already with Ryan and Kell (Ryan clearly being an impulsive and egotistical jerk)
7. Bad people don’t deserve hot blueberry muffins !!!!!
8. I love the stories of brothers living together and how one book follows each brother (idk if that’s the vibe in any additional books but it’s something I’ve noticed in reading) * are there more books coming ?!
9. The bros agree to do a reality show after one brother originally makes the deal for himself. (I like this idea and the contrast of Ryan and Ash’s approach to acting in general)
10. Cringe very First Kiss 😭
11. Ash breadcrumbs his thoughts about Kell - letting you know she’s always been there in his mind
12. His anger at his brothers obliviousness juxtaposed with Ash attention to detail about Kell
13. PG14 on the spice levels
14, Claudette as a best friend having her own status and respect, kudos!
All in all, i found this to be a great story! I sent a friend a 7 min audio clip of myself ranting about this book! This would have been 5 stars had there actually been some spicier scenes. I would totally recommend to friends who just want that good hearted novel feel.
1. Dedication to the Jonas bros 10/10
2. 1FMC / 3MMC (focused on Ash and Kell) chapters are dual POV
3. Friends to lovers / fake relationship / forced proximity
4. All bodies deserve romance. Chronic illness representation - i don’t think I’ve personally seen this in books
5. I love this isn’t a superficial “I’m an actor” in the MMC Ash, you get to see his methods and desire to grow out his current niche. He’s a method actor through and through. His struggles with accepting reality tv as not the “bottom” of his career
6. Love the established history noted already with Ryan and Kell (Ryan clearly being an impulsive and egotistical jerk)
7. Bad people don’t deserve hot blueberry muffins !!!!!
8. I love the stories of brothers living together and how one book follows each brother (idk if that’s the vibe in any additional books but it’s something I’ve noticed in reading) * are there more books coming ?!
9. The bros agree to do a reality show after one brother originally makes the deal for himself. (I like this idea and the contrast of Ryan and Ash’s approach to acting in general)
10. Cringe very First Kiss 😭
11. Ash breadcrumbs his thoughts about Kell - letting you know she’s always been there in his mind
12. His anger at his brothers obliviousness juxtaposed with Ash attention to detail about Kell
13. PG14 on the spice levels
14, Claudette as a best friend having her own status and respect, kudos!
All in all, i found this to be a great story! I sent a friend a 7 min audio clip of myself ranting about this book! This would have been 5 stars had there actually been some spicier scenes. I would totally recommend to friends who just want that good hearted novel feel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2023
Kell is the manager for the Matthew brothers, the hottest celebrity trio. Ash, Jonah, and don’t make her job easy.
Ash wants a a change of pace, but doesn’t know how to leave the world of rom coms for something different. Maybe a drama? That is, till Ryan proposes marriage to a random fan he’s known for only a month and Kell finds out that he signed on to do a reality show…without talking to her or his brothers.
Kell and Ash are trying to make lemonade out of lemons all while hoping it doesn’t implode their careers and their friendship.
I liked this book. It isn’t a favorite of mine, but I enjoyed reading it and have no regrets. Kell and Ash make for good leads. Ryan is a decent enough foil, but he is a pretty terrible brother and friend. Jonah is … fine? I didn’t get the point of him having all those fines or being on again/off again with his girlfriend. They seemed solid whenever she was on page.
Judith is awful. I am not entirely sure she was meant to be. But, she was. Pressuring Kell and Ash into a fake relationship and breakup, for one, but the kicker was setting up the show without ever talking to anyone but Ryan.
I found it strange how the most famous trio of brothers (more famous than a certain trio that includes a superhero) can go out and about without being mobbed (running outside, bars, etc) but I’m taking that as part of the fictional world. The only fans that hit on any of the brothers were shockingly normal.
If you need something devoid of stress that should keep your attention, and you are a fan of books about fame, then go for it. This is a solid 3.5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and CamCat Books for an arc of this book.
Ash wants a a change of pace, but doesn’t know how to leave the world of rom coms for something different. Maybe a drama? That is, till Ryan proposes marriage to a random fan he’s known for only a month and Kell finds out that he signed on to do a reality show…without talking to her or his brothers.
Kell and Ash are trying to make lemonade out of lemons all while hoping it doesn’t implode their careers and their friendship.
I liked this book. It isn’t a favorite of mine, but I enjoyed reading it and have no regrets. Kell and Ash make for good leads. Ryan is a decent enough foil, but he is a pretty terrible brother and friend. Jonah is … fine? I didn’t get the point of him having all those fines or being on again/off again with his girlfriend. They seemed solid whenever she was on page.
Judith is awful. I am not entirely sure she was meant to be. But, she was. Pressuring Kell and Ash into a fake relationship and breakup, for one, but the kicker was setting up the show without ever talking to anyone but Ryan.
I found it strange how the most famous trio of brothers (more famous than a certain trio that includes a superhero) can go out and about without being mobbed (running outside, bars, etc) but I’m taking that as part of the fictional world. The only fans that hit on any of the brothers were shockingly normal.
If you need something devoid of stress that should keep your attention, and you are a fan of books about fame, then go for it. This is a solid 3.5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and CamCat Books for an arc of this book.
April 10, 2023
Overall I enjoyed the story, friends to lovers and fake relationships are two of my favourite tropes. This is a standalone, told in duel POV (Kell & Ash) and is fade to black.
We follow Kell as she manages the three Matthews brothers through their career getting some insight into how difficult and time consuming managing actors might be - how many things there are to juggle, think about, organise and plan - its something that I had no idea about so was interesting to learn.
The relationship between Kell & Ash was sweet and their romance a long time coming, even if they didn't realise it themselves. They met and became friends in college. Both characters were likeable and supportive of each others career.
So I don't think I've read a book before where I wanted to knock some sense into pretty much every character. Nobody really talked to each other, it was like nobody trusted anyone else, even though they'd been working together for years. The story was full of half conversations that never seemed to get finished or never really happened at all, and the characters changed their minds or opinions from one conversation to another. Now I know some of this was done for the story, but the way it was done made the story not flow as well as I think it could have.
Kell has Crohns disease, which is mentioned a few times, I think there was a missed opportunity to explain how it impacted her daily life more than an injection every 8 weeks.
The ending wasn't a surprise, but not in quite the way that I thought it would be.
We follow Kell as she manages the three Matthews brothers through their career getting some insight into how difficult and time consuming managing actors might be - how many things there are to juggle, think about, organise and plan - its something that I had no idea about so was interesting to learn.
The relationship between Kell & Ash was sweet and their romance a long time coming, even if they didn't realise it themselves. They met and became friends in college. Both characters were likeable and supportive of each others career.
So I don't think I've read a book before where I wanted to knock some sense into pretty much every character. Nobody really talked to each other, it was like nobody trusted anyone else, even though they'd been working together for years. The story was full of half conversations that never seemed to get finished or never really happened at all, and the characters changed their minds or opinions from one conversation to another. Now I know some of this was done for the story, but the way it was done made the story not flow as well as I think it could have.
Kell has Crohns disease, which is mentioned a few times, I think there was a missed opportunity to explain how it impacted her daily life more than an injection every 8 weeks.
The ending wasn't a surprise, but not in quite the way that I thought it would be.
October 8, 2023
📖My Thoughts📖
Cute. Fun. Entertaining. Romance. Falling out. Happily ever after ending. All the ingredients for a romantic comedy. What’s different about this one? We’ve seen the whole Hollywood star trope before, but this one was a bit different. Ash is a celebrity and Kell, she isn’t just some common civilian or fan crazed follower that just upon luck found their way into a celebs heart. For one, she’s the manager of the three Matthews brothers, and she actually starts out totally crushing on one of the brothers. This is a friends to lovers, to enemy’s, and right back to friends and then lovers again(of course, because we can’t have a sad ending).
What I liked about this book: It was a cute and fun read, that gave me some chuckles. It was an easy book to follow along with that manifested some light hearted romance.
What I wish had been included: I would have liked the author to have gone a little more in depth with the characters backgrounds as well as adding a little more detail to the relationships as they stood at present day. I think it would have added a little more to the overall storyline.
Despite feeling like there was a little something missing from this book, I really enjoyed reading it. I think it’s a great beach/lake/poolside read, or a rainy day bundled up in a blanket book.
Thank you Netgalley, Haleigh Wenger and CamCat Books for the opportunity to read and review this book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute. Fun. Entertaining. Romance. Falling out. Happily ever after ending. All the ingredients for a romantic comedy. What’s different about this one? We’ve seen the whole Hollywood star trope before, but this one was a bit different. Ash is a celebrity and Kell, she isn’t just some common civilian or fan crazed follower that just upon luck found their way into a celebs heart. For one, she’s the manager of the three Matthews brothers, and she actually starts out totally crushing on one of the brothers. This is a friends to lovers, to enemy’s, and right back to friends and then lovers again(of course, because we can’t have a sad ending).
What I liked about this book: It was a cute and fun read, that gave me some chuckles. It was an easy book to follow along with that manifested some light hearted romance.
What I wish had been included: I would have liked the author to have gone a little more in depth with the characters backgrounds as well as adding a little more detail to the relationships as they stood at present day. I think it would have added a little more to the overall storyline.
Despite feeling like there was a little something missing from this book, I really enjoyed reading it. I think it’s a great beach/lake/poolside read, or a rainy day bundled up in a blanket book.
Thank you Netgalley, Haleigh Wenger and CamCat Books for the opportunity to read and review this book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 25, 2023
BLURB: Nothing’s real on reality TV—or is it?
Everyone knows Kell Simmons manages the Matthews brothers, the three hottest stars in Hollywood: action hero Ryan, romantic lead Ash, and sports star Jonah. But no one knows that she’s hopelessly in love with one of them.
When Ryan’s surprise engagement to a fan just about breaks Kell’s heart, Ash, himself unhappily in love, lends his shoulder to cry on. All this is great fodder for the brothers' very own reality TV show, and soon the days of their lives are filled with scripted dates, fake drama, and real heartache—all in front of a camera.
As the brothers’ popularity skyrockets into the stratosphere, Kell finds herself wondering how much, if any, of the spotlight she wants, if it means foregoing real love for fun and games on TV.
REVIEW: This friends-to-lovers, fake relationship should have been perfect for me, two of my favourite tropes together, instead, I found it lacking.
There are huge chunks of the book that are ‘missing’ or which occur off the page, and is then only explained with one or two lines. The main male character is rather unlikeable, and the main female character has a medical condition that is named but never really explained, which seems like a missed opportunity.
Overall, an okay read, but not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this in return for my honest review.
Everyone knows Kell Simmons manages the Matthews brothers, the three hottest stars in Hollywood: action hero Ryan, romantic lead Ash, and sports star Jonah. But no one knows that she’s hopelessly in love with one of them.
When Ryan’s surprise engagement to a fan just about breaks Kell’s heart, Ash, himself unhappily in love, lends his shoulder to cry on. All this is great fodder for the brothers' very own reality TV show, and soon the days of their lives are filled with scripted dates, fake drama, and real heartache—all in front of a camera.
As the brothers’ popularity skyrockets into the stratosphere, Kell finds herself wondering how much, if any, of the spotlight she wants, if it means foregoing real love for fun and games on TV.
REVIEW: This friends-to-lovers, fake relationship should have been perfect for me, two of my favourite tropes together, instead, I found it lacking.
There are huge chunks of the book that are ‘missing’ or which occur off the page, and is then only explained with one or two lines. The main male character is rather unlikeable, and the main female character has a medical condition that is named but never really explained, which seems like a missed opportunity.
Overall, an okay read, but not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this in return for my honest review.
May 19, 2023
Haleigh Wenger offers a fresh look on the Hollywood romance trope by focusing on a manager.
Kell is the manager for three brothers - hearthrob Ryan (whom she's in love with), steady and sensible Ash (her best friend from university) and the flighty youngest Jonah. She finds herself upended when Ryan announces his sudden engagement to a woman he met a few days previously (just after she and him had 'a moment'). Added to this, Ryan has signed (without Kell's knowledge) him and his brothers to a reality show.
The premise of this book had a lot of promise, unfortunately it fell short for me. I found the pacing lagged at times, and the shenanigans Kell faced being undermined by her clients and their agent Judith infuriating, that I ended up skimming. I do wish Judith had a bit of a reckoning for signing up all three of her clients up to a show when it was arranged with only one. Totally unprofessional. While the resolution made up for those middling parts, I think these issues made this just a like for me. I did like the clear tension and chemistry between Kell and Ash though, so I still think that if you like a Hollywood romance trope, you should add this to your pile (just because I am not a five star reviewer I still think you should read it!)
Thanks to CamCat Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
Kell is the manager for three brothers - hearthrob Ryan (whom she's in love with), steady and sensible Ash (her best friend from university) and the flighty youngest Jonah. She finds herself upended when Ryan announces his sudden engagement to a woman he met a few days previously (just after she and him had 'a moment'). Added to this, Ryan has signed (without Kell's knowledge) him and his brothers to a reality show.
The premise of this book had a lot of promise, unfortunately it fell short for me. I found the pacing lagged at times, and the shenanigans Kell faced being undermined by her clients and their agent Judith infuriating, that I ended up skimming. I do wish Judith had a bit of a reckoning for signing up all three of her clients up to a show when it was arranged with only one. Totally unprofessional. While the resolution made up for those middling parts, I think these issues made this just a like for me. I did like the clear tension and chemistry between Kell and Ash though, so I still think that if you like a Hollywood romance trope, you should add this to your pile (just because I am not a five star reviewer I still think you should read it!)
Thanks to CamCat Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
July 3, 2023
Fans of Hollywood stars, reality TV, and sweet romance will enjoy reading Managing the Matthews, the adult romance debut of author Haleigh Wenger. This book is told through two viewpoints. First, Kell is the manager of a trio of good-looking brothers: Ryan, Ash, and Jonah Matthews. She and Ash are college friends –nothing more– and Kell has helped them launch their careers and keep them in the spotlight. She has harbored an inappropriate crush on the oldest brother, Ryan, for years. The other viewpoint is Ash, Kell’s friend and the middle brother. The Matthews live together in their own place, which becomes a convenient setting for the reality TV show that Ryan wants them to do.
This story is a fun read, almost like watching a TV show or rom-com. It’s easy to get lost in the story. Wenger does a good job making the voices of her narrators different enough that the back-and-forth (though not always alternating) is not confusing. Some side characters have depth hinted at but we only explore surface levels with them. Though this is a romance, Kell truly is the main character and experiences major growth throughout the book, sometimes more slowly than I would have liked.
Three and a half stars rounded up because the story made me laugh.
Thank you to NetGalley and CamCat Books for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
This story is a fun read, almost like watching a TV show or rom-com. It’s easy to get lost in the story. Wenger does a good job making the voices of her narrators different enough that the back-and-forth (though not always alternating) is not confusing. Some side characters have depth hinted at but we only explore surface levels with them. Though this is a romance, Kell truly is the main character and experiences major growth throughout the book, sometimes more slowly than I would have liked.
Three and a half stars rounded up because the story made me laugh.
Thank you to NetGalley and CamCat Books for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2023
3.5 stars. I usually hate and avoid slow burns but the trope of best friends to lovers and double pining got me on this one. Add the fact that it's set in Hollywood with famous brothers and I'm set. It's not a quick read, at least for me, but it's enjoyable and the build up is worth. I wish we didn't have so much 3rd act drama and saw more of Ash/Kell's relationship rather than focusing on Ryan so much. he's an unlikeable character and even his unlikeability wasn't useful to the plot. He jumped off the page in all the bad ways. I wish there was redemption for him despite his behavior. I think Jonah and Claudette were interesting characters but I had some issues with Claudette's character. She was absolutely the token black girl and black savior trope of this book. Anytime Kell had a problem, she rushed to Claudette to "pretty" her up and make her feel good but we never saw the reciprocated. Yes, it's Kell's book but her reliance on her friend screamed more as dependence rather than friendship. Ash wasn't that interesting as a character so thus he's not going on the book boyfriend list. Kell is worth way more and i appreciate how she didn't fawn over the men all the time. She had strength and confidence and self worth. As a whole, a decent romance and a decent debut but it was only slightly above average.
February 12, 2024
Sometimes I wish my Romance box would give me a spiciness meter so I know roughly what I’m getting into. 🤣
This book was all fade to black. Which… fine. If you want that then this is a good book for it but that’s not my jam. Not a mark against the book but not for it.
Things I liked: fake dating. Commentary on the fact that men also can suffer from sexual assault and negative body images. An MC with a chronic disease.
But this book was just did not live up to all it’s laid out potential. The MMC and FMC were fake dating but we rarely saw it. In fact, they were on a reality show but we didn’t really see that either. The stage was set for some massive sexual tension offset by the “always watching” of the cameras and it all just… fell flat.
And the chemistry between the main characters was almost non existent. Even if there isn’t any on screen sex, that doesn’t mean the sexual tension can’t still leap off the page. A clean romance shouldn’t mean a boring romance. And it CAN be done (Mhairi McFarlane does an amazing job of “closed door” romances while still creating tension you could cut a knife through.)
Mostly I’m just disappointed because I saw a lot of potential for this book that just didn’t get fulfilled. (Also, this book had great reverse harem potential. Which again not anything against the book. I just would have loved that. 😈)
This book was all fade to black. Which… fine. If you want that then this is a good book for it but that’s not my jam. Not a mark against the book but not for it.
Things I liked: fake dating. Commentary on the fact that men also can suffer from sexual assault and negative body images. An MC with a chronic disease.
But this book was just did not live up to all it’s laid out potential. The MMC and FMC were fake dating but we rarely saw it. In fact, they were on a reality show but we didn’t really see that either. The stage was set for some massive sexual tension offset by the “always watching” of the cameras and it all just… fell flat.
And the chemistry between the main characters was almost non existent. Even if there isn’t any on screen sex, that doesn’t mean the sexual tension can’t still leap off the page. A clean romance shouldn’t mean a boring romance. And it CAN be done (Mhairi McFarlane does an amazing job of “closed door” romances while still creating tension you could cut a knife through.)
Mostly I’m just disappointed because I saw a lot of potential for this book that just didn’t get fulfilled. (Also, this book had great reverse harem potential. Which again not anything against the book. I just would have loved that. 😈)
April 13, 2023
Thank you to CamCat Books and Netgalley for an ARC of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I first became aware of MANAGING THE MATTHEWS through (I’m almost positive!) TikTok and was immediately intrigued by the premise: three handsome and famous brothers being managed by a woman who has been friends with one for years while in love with another just as long.
As a lover of celebrity romances, I was hooked by the first few chapters, especially when the brothers signed on to do a reality show that pulled Kell, their manager, into a fake dating relationship with her college friend, Ash, who desperately wanted to make the leap from silly rom-coms where he was often cast as eye-candy to more serious movies.
However, I wish we were given deeper insight into and development of these characters, especially when it came to Kell and Ash’s fake dating. Though the reader knows they’re in a relationship solely for the purpose of the show, I wanted more scenes of them doing couple-y things for the cameras and building their connection on- and off-camera so the transition from fake dating as friends to experiencing actual feelings for each other was more gradual and built up, rather than feeling as if a switch had been flipped.
I first became aware of MANAGING THE MATTHEWS through (I’m almost positive!) TikTok and was immediately intrigued by the premise: three handsome and famous brothers being managed by a woman who has been friends with one for years while in love with another just as long.
As a lover of celebrity romances, I was hooked by the first few chapters, especially when the brothers signed on to do a reality show that pulled Kell, their manager, into a fake dating relationship with her college friend, Ash, who desperately wanted to make the leap from silly rom-coms where he was often cast as eye-candy to more serious movies.
However, I wish we were given deeper insight into and development of these characters, especially when it came to Kell and Ash’s fake dating. Though the reader knows they’re in a relationship solely for the purpose of the show, I wanted more scenes of them doing couple-y things for the cameras and building their connection on- and off-camera so the transition from fake dating as friends to experiencing actual feelings for each other was more gradual and built up, rather than feeling as if a switch had been flipped.
August 20, 2023
This was a different and unique storyline dealing with a young lady, Kell, who's managing 3 brothers; Ryan, Jonah and Ash. Their last name; Matthew. Kell and Ash were best friends in college and she took on Ash and his brothers, all actors in various fields. Kell was not taking care of herself beause of putting too much time and work into the Matthews schedules and future roles.
Ryan and Kell had a quick flirting session that Ash caught, but said nothing to them upon seeing them liplocked. Their relationship didn't go any further then that and Kell was hurt by Ryan and realized that she let herself be lead by the playboy of the brothers. Meanwhile Ash cared significantly for her and they didn't get that relationship going other then best friends til later in story. Ash has strong feelings for Kell since meeting.
They went onto a reality show together where Ash and Kell were paired up. During these tapings of the reality show is when everything went south for Kell and the Matthews. Full on rollercoaster of a ride of emotions for all of them and interesting and fun read til the end. The storyline had a good pull of mystery and intrigue til end.
I received an early copy for free and gave my honest review.
Ryan and Kell had a quick flirting session that Ash caught, but said nothing to them upon seeing them liplocked. Their relationship didn't go any further then that and Kell was hurt by Ryan and realized that she let herself be lead by the playboy of the brothers. Meanwhile Ash cared significantly for her and they didn't get that relationship going other then best friends til later in story. Ash has strong feelings for Kell since meeting.
They went onto a reality show together where Ash and Kell were paired up. During these tapings of the reality show is when everything went south for Kell and the Matthews. Full on rollercoaster of a ride of emotions for all of them and interesting and fun read til the end. The storyline had a good pull of mystery and intrigue til end.
I received an early copy for free and gave my honest review.
October 1, 2023
Kell’s best friend in college, Ash Matthews, is one of three famous brothers who all live together whilst enjoying fame in their different genres.
Ash does Romantic Comedies, Ryan, the eldest, does Action movies, and Jonah, the youngest, does Sportscasting.
Kell becomes their Manager having studied Public Relations, and keeps them on track, cleaning up their personal and professional messes as they go.
She also has a big crush on Ryan.
When Ryan announces that he has agreed to a “fly on the wall” show featuring all the brothers, Kell is annoyed that he didn’t involve her as their manager.
The show goes well, but interference from their agent, Judith, who is always pushing for more doesn’t help, and Kell is persuaded to “fake date” Ash for the duration of the filming, which isn’t easy for either of them.
This is a story that is very well written, perfectly plotted, and with Characters that are believable and, likeable.
There are many twists and turns along the way, and the dramas that ensue kept me up into the early hours.
Altogether, a very enjoyable read, which deserves the 5 stars I am giving it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Ash does Romantic Comedies, Ryan, the eldest, does Action movies, and Jonah, the youngest, does Sportscasting.
Kell becomes their Manager having studied Public Relations, and keeps them on track, cleaning up their personal and professional messes as they go.
She also has a big crush on Ryan.
When Ryan announces that he has agreed to a “fly on the wall” show featuring all the brothers, Kell is annoyed that he didn’t involve her as their manager.
The show goes well, but interference from their agent, Judith, who is always pushing for more doesn’t help, and Kell is persuaded to “fake date” Ash for the duration of the filming, which isn’t easy for either of them.
This is a story that is very well written, perfectly plotted, and with Characters that are believable and, likeable.
There are many twists and turns along the way, and the dramas that ensue kept me up into the early hours.
Altogether, a very enjoyable read, which deserves the 5 stars I am giving it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
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