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Quiblings #3
On My Side
Ren Quinn is perfect. At least, that’s what everyone thinks. By day, he works hard to be a model son, brother, and elementary school music teacher. But by night, Ren is Sky, a content creator for 4Play, an audio erotica app. He anonymously satisfies listeners around the world with his provocative audios…or so he thinks.
Audrey Hinton hides in plain sight in her hometown since having her daughter, Piper, as a teenager. Ostracized by her community, Audrey protects herself and Piper by abiding by one don’t let anyone close enough to see who she really is.
When Piper’s new piano teacher turns out to be person from Audrey’s past and a voice from her present, she’s reminded why she keeps people at arms length.
As Ren and Audrey are forced to navigate their unexpected relationship, Ren finds himself wanting to break his strict “no dating parents” rule, while Audrey lets someone in for the first time in years. After a lifetime of secrets and trying to control the narrative, can two people hiding their true selves be seen and loved for exactly who they are?
After all, rules are meant to be broken.
Audrey Hinton hides in plain sight in her hometown since having her daughter, Piper, as a teenager. Ostracized by her community, Audrey protects herself and Piper by abiding by one don’t let anyone close enough to see who she really is.
When Piper’s new piano teacher turns out to be person from Audrey’s past and a voice from her present, she’s reminded why she keeps people at arms length.
As Ren and Audrey are forced to navigate their unexpected relationship, Ren finds himself wanting to break his strict “no dating parents” rule, while Audrey lets someone in for the first time in years. After a lifetime of secrets and trying to control the narrative, can two people hiding their true selves be seen and loved for exactly who they are?
After all, rules are meant to be broken.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2025
16 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Katie Duggan
5 books109 followersKatie Duggan is a New England transplant currently living in Northern Virginia. She writes romances that give fat, neurodivergent, and queer characters spicy happily-ever-afters. When Katie’s not writing or being kept up at night by her characters, she can be found drinking iced chai lattes, going to therapy, convincing people to read her favorite books, and doing whatever hobbies give her neurospicy brain the most dopamine at the moment.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 21, 2025
Received this as an ARC and I have ZERO regrets. The dynamic between Ren and Audrey is actually real. There’s no insta-love. There’s real adult issues like depression and feeling unworthy. It honestly made me love the characters even more.
The connection between Ren and Piper is sweet too. Also, making him a Star Wars nerd… soooo here for it! 10/10 would read again!
The connection between Ren and Piper is sweet too. Also, making him a Star Wars nerd… soooo here for it! 10/10 would read again!
July 17, 2025
On My Side - Katie Duggan
This is my first book by this author and I’m very impressed. I love all the representation they include in their books, especially this series. Especially with the main characters Ren and Audrey. Audrey’s daughter, Piper is also a good example of representation as well. The characters are very lovable, and I love the writing style. I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series. I’m very thankful to have been gifted a copy of the book. I definitely recommend the book for not only the love story but for the various representation that is included in the book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Quiblings (Standalone) #3
Genre/Tropes ✨ BDSM, single mom FMC, voice actor MMC, Autism Representation, single parent x teacher, age gap, she’s older, sunshine x sunshine, queer representation, depression representation, childhood crush to friends to lovers, hidden identity, forced proximity
This is my first book by this author and I’m very impressed. I love all the representation they include in their books, especially this series. Especially with the main characters Ren and Audrey. Audrey’s daughter, Piper is also a good example of representation as well. The characters are very lovable, and I love the writing style. I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series. I’m very thankful to have been gifted a copy of the book. I definitely recommend the book for not only the love story but for the various representation that is included in the book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Quiblings (Standalone) #3
Genre/Tropes ✨ BDSM, single mom FMC, voice actor MMC, Autism Representation, single parent x teacher, age gap, she’s older, sunshine x sunshine, queer representation, depression representation, childhood crush to friends to lovers, hidden identity, forced proximity
July 20, 2025
True story: I signed up for this arc because Katie commented on my spicy mirror post that she’s written not one but TWO in her books soooooooo yeah I ran to apply for this arc. (And because Bonnie has been hyping her up)
BONNIE BABY YOU DID NOT DISAPPOINT BECAUSE KATIE ILYSM. This book is a queer hug in literary form. Bisexual, Pansexual, & Demisexual rep. A single mom with the spunkiest, most lovable autistic daughter. And the sexiest nerd mmc. (I mean if you want an erotic audiobook narrator who loves being called a Good Boy)
And Katie’s writing?? Absolutely hysterical. It feels so natural, so effortless. The references are 10/10 (Star Wars, parent trap, CMON). Like when I tell you this book was a hecking delight!!!!
Ren, Aud, Piper and Leia all have my heart and I desperately need a bonus epilogue and the next book now pleaseeeee💛✨
Read if you enjoy:
•Single Mom x Music Teacher
•Secret Er0t!ca App Narrator
•Autistic daughter
•Demi / Bi / Pan Rep
•Cat Daddy
•Therapy Rep
BONNIE BABY YOU DID NOT DISAPPOINT BECAUSE KATIE ILYSM. This book is a queer hug in literary form. Bisexual, Pansexual, & Demisexual rep. A single mom with the spunkiest, most lovable autistic daughter. And the sexiest nerd mmc. (I mean if you want an erotic audiobook narrator who loves being called a Good Boy)
And Katie’s writing?? Absolutely hysterical. It feels so natural, so effortless. The references are 10/10 (Star Wars, parent trap, CMON). Like when I tell you this book was a hecking delight!!!!
Ren, Aud, Piper and Leia all have my heart and I desperately need a bonus epilogue and the next book now pleaseeeee💛✨
Read if you enjoy:
•Single Mom x Music Teacher
•Secret Er0t!ca App Narrator
•Autistic daughter
•Demi / Bi / Pan Rep
•Cat Daddy
•Therapy Rep
August 27, 2025
Duggan's newest addition to the Quiblings series , On my Side is a tender story about sex , sex work and self-acceptance but with each release — and maybe this was always there but I didn’t care nor notice — the conversational writing lacks poise in a way that takes me out of the story at times.
I really enjoy the thematic through line of her queer characters contending with their catholic upbringing in different ways as well as the spotlight on therapy , mental and chronic illness . The subject matter is sensitive , but you can tell that Duggan takes great care in depicting it . it’s honest and integral to the story and characters
However , my biggest issue with On my side was not the dialogue or characterisation of MCs , but the writing — and it’s evident in the quotes above . Duggan insists on spoon-feeding every joke , emotion , tonal shift . There’s no room for interpretation .
Another issue is the descriptions : everything is sparse . I first noticed this in Back to me but it has yet to be improved . Duggan’s world lacks tactility . Audrey runs a very successful inn but there are no mentions of the architectural style or landscape .
Where are those fingerprints?
A description of Audrey’s quaint cottage :
It's a shame because I genuinely liked the characters -- notably Audrey's daughter Piper-- and (generally) bought into the love story . It started as lustful infatuation, turning into friendship then more , but Duggan had a terrible habit of glossing over relationship building moments . When Audrey said “You’re much more than that. You’re my best friend.” I raised my eyebrow and said, “Really?
Take this scene where Audrey finally tells Ren about her experience of being a teen mom:
It would've been more impactful if we got pieces of dialogue since some of this information was new to the reader .
I don't know where to slot this in - so I'll put it here .I liked the tension of Ren being the people pleasing son :
but again , I was spoon-fed. I was particularly interested in how that aspect of his personality influenced his choice to be a sex- worker , while being demisexual. I would've liked more discussions on that front because it challenged my perceptions what on sex work looks like -- I didn't even consider that being an erotic voice actor "counted"
Overall this was fine but could’ve been amazing, all the makings of a great story were right there , but multiple opportunities of nuanced character work were missed and the pacing was uneven. Unfortunately , I think that Duggan needs to hone in on the writing quality to elevate their ideas . I will say that the set-up for what I'm assuming is Kat's book was the most compelling storyline so I'm excited to see where Duggan takes it.
Thanks to the author for an e-ARC!
I really enjoy the thematic through line of her queer characters contending with their catholic upbringing in different ways as well as the spotlight on therapy , mental and chronic illness . The subject matter is sensitive , but you can tell that Duggan takes great care in depicting it . it’s honest and integral to the story and characters
Example:
“I told you I’m demisexual, but I’m also pansexual, which means the stereotype is I want to fuck everyone, but it means my attraction isn’t based on gender. I need a strong emotional connection to be attracted to someone. So that first night? I was already all in.”
“I understand, especially the stereotype. I’m bisexual, so I am a victim of it to an extent, too. But I’d never want you to lose yourself,” she whispers. “I didn’t realize that’s what I was asking you to do.”
“The entire concept of the religion that is so important to them is built on the back of a pregnant teenager. When I was growing up, being a good Catholic meant being like Jesus. Being kind, not excluding people, looking out for one another, praying… not literally refusing to help someone they were more than capable of helping. While I don’t put my parents on a pedestal, I always admired how their faith wasn’t something they used to harm others, even when I stopped practicing. Learning I’m wrong is a mindfuck.”
However , my biggest issue with On my side was not the dialogue or characterisation of MCs , but the writing — and it’s evident in the quotes above . Duggan insists on spoon-feeding every joke , emotion , tonal shift . There’s no room for interpretation .
Example:
“Don’t move. I’m going to grab the towels.”
I raise my hands to show my obedience as he bends down.
“Yes, sir.”
The speed at which he stands up straight, towels still on the ground, is almost comical.
“What did you just say?” he asks, face red.
Huh? What did I just…Oh my god.Oh my god.Okay, Audrey, play it cool. It’s nothing. You didn’t mean it in a sexual way. Even if he obviously interpreted it as sexual.
I laugh nervously.
“What, no one ever calls you sir? Kids these days have no manners.”
He laughs, but this time it’s strained. “You can’t say stuff like that, Aud.”
I feel lightheaded as he bends over again, collecting the towels in his arms and reaching to grab the phone that landed by my feet.
Aud. Pipe.He’s comfortable with us. He’s shortening our names like he’s ours, like we’re his.
Another issue is the descriptions : everything is sparse . I first noticed this in Back to me but it has yet to be improved . Duggan’s world lacks tactility . Audrey runs a very successful inn but there are no mentions of the architectural style or landscape .
Example:
“I put everything into transforming Port Haven Inn into SandPiper Inn, expanding it and creating space for events. Aunt Olivia would have loved the inn in its current state. Her fingerprints are everywhere.”
Where are those fingerprints?
A description of Audrey’s quaint cottage :
“It’s around a ten minute walk from Queenie’s to Audrey’s home, a small white cottage tucked behind the inn. ”
It's a shame because I genuinely liked the characters -- notably Audrey's daughter Piper-- and (generally) bought into the love story . It started as lustful infatuation, turning into friendship then more , but Duggan had a terrible habit of glossing over relationship building moments . When Audrey said “You’re much more than that. You’re my best friend.” I raised my eyebrow and said, “Really?
Take this scene where Audrey finally tells Ren about her experience of being a teen mom:
Ren comes over after the event, and I finally tell him everything about my pregnancy and raising Piper on my own. I tell him what it was like being the pregnant girl my final semester of high school. How teachers and students alike suddenly stopped talking whenever I was near. How I ate lunch alone in the nurse’s office while she ignored me. How I took my finals in April and finished early, because Piper was due in early May. How when they sent my diploma, I threw it away. I tell him about the depression that plagued me after she was born, how I’d cry during the sleepless nights, begging her to latch or to sleep, depending on the situation.I tell him what it was like working the front desk of the inn with a tiny Piper in a bouncer seat next to me.
It would've been more impactful if we got pieces of dialogue since some of this information was new to the reader .
I don't know where to slot this in - so I'll put it here .I liked the tension of Ren being the people pleasing son :
“I like who I am with her. It’s like I’m finally able to relax and not act like who people expect me to be. Not Sky, the audio erotica performer, not Ren, the perfect eldest son who never disappoints his family—just me. The imperfect man who’s realising all he ever really wanted was to be seen.”
but again , I was spoon-fed. I was particularly interested in how that aspect of his personality influenced his choice to be a sex- worker , while being demisexual. I would've liked more discussions on that front because it challenged my perceptions what on sex work looks like -- I didn't even consider that being an erotic voice actor "counted"
Overall this was fine but could’ve been amazing, all the makings of a great story were right there , but multiple opportunities of nuanced character work were missed and the pacing was uneven. Unfortunately , I think that Duggan needs to hone in on the writing quality to elevate their ideas . I will say that the set-up for what I'm assuming is Kat's book was the most compelling storyline so I'm excited to see where Duggan takes it.
Thanks to the author for an e-ARC!
July 23, 2025
Thank you Katie Duggan for providing me with an advance copy of this book.
On My Side has
• Sunshine x Sunshine (I don’t see often so it’s definitely nice to see)
• A spicy audio content creator🌶️🤭
• Queer rep🏳️🌈
• Autism rep ♾️
• References to Gilmore Girls 📺 (and Star Wars)
• Spice🥵😮💨🤭
• Mental Health rep.🧠💚
• CAT DAD (enough said)
Initial thoughts, it started out slow for me but picked up some shortly after. I love the references to Gilmore Girls, just recently started watching that.
As a spicy audio listener I adore that the MMC, Ren, is a spicy audio creator. That had me intrigued from the start.
I also love and appreciate the autism rep. Especially as someone suspected to be on the spectrum (they won’t give me an actual diagnosis but they say I exhibit behaviors🙂)
I love seeing queer and ace representation in books, As I am grey-ace and bi myself (pun not intended because I’m ironically single… so I’m “bi myself” okay sorry I’ll leave🫣)
The snark and sarcasm from Piper, especially towards the end made me laugh🤣
1 star just for mentioning pickleball (Just Kidding, but high key as a roller derby girl I have beef with pickleball🤣)
Overall slow to start for me but once it picked up it was so good. I love the nerdy aspect, and the pet name “sweetheart” makes me kick my feet and squeal, I love it so much and both being switches🥵😮💨😍🤭
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
On My Side has
• Sunshine x Sunshine (I don’t see often so it’s definitely nice to see)
• A spicy audio content creator🌶️🤭
• Queer rep🏳️🌈
• Autism rep ♾️
• References to Gilmore Girls 📺 (and Star Wars)
• Spice🥵😮💨🤭
• Mental Health rep.🧠💚
• CAT DAD (enough said)
Initial thoughts, it started out slow for me but picked up some shortly after. I love the references to Gilmore Girls, just recently started watching that.
As a spicy audio listener I adore that the MMC, Ren, is a spicy audio creator. That had me intrigued from the start.
I also love and appreciate the autism rep. Especially as someone suspected to be on the spectrum (they won’t give me an actual diagnosis but they say I exhibit behaviors🙂)
I love seeing queer and ace representation in books, As I am grey-ace and bi myself (pun not intended because I’m ironically single… so I’m “bi myself” okay sorry I’ll leave🫣)
The snark and sarcasm from Piper, especially towards the end made me laugh🤣
1 star just for mentioning pickleball (Just Kidding, but high key as a roller derby girl I have beef with pickleball🤣)
Overall slow to start for me but once it picked up it was so good. I love the nerdy aspect, and the pet name “sweetheart” makes me kick my feet and squeal, I love it so much and both being switches🥵😮💨😍🤭
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 19, 2025
An absolute must-read. Katie's writing keeps getting better and better, it's a gift to come back to the Quiblings world. <3
July 25, 2025
5 stars.
I adored every single minute of "On My Side" by Katie Duggan! I looooooved Audrey, Ren, and Piper. Audrey is the owner of the SandPiper Inn, who has shut herself away after being shunned by her family, friends, and community when she became a single teen mom. Her daughter, Piper, is a terrific firecracker of a kid, an autistic teenager who wants a cat and loves playing piano. Ren knew Audrey when he was younger and didn't understand the extent of why she withdrew when she had her baby. It has been years since he has seen her, and it turns out, he is going to be Piper's piano teacher. Ren is a huge nerd and an even bigger softy. He is demi and pansexual, and Audrey is bisexual. Audrey and Ren feel a spark between each other instantly. I feel like I cried so much while reading this?? Actually, I alternated between laughing and crying like a maniac. It's cathartic and geeky and gentle and representative and accepting and wonderful. The issues discussed in this story are serious and adults and are handled with grace and care and tenderness. I was rooting for Ren, Audrey, and Piper the whole time. I loved the banter between all of the characters. I enjoyed getting a peek at what's to come from the Quiblings series and checking in with past couples (Nic and Josh, and Jo and Hunter). I just loved this story so, so much. I love how Duggan normalizes apologizing, aftercare, checking in, taking space, and saying sorry. The pacing is excellent, and the book is not too long. Please read all of the Quiblings books. You're doing yourself a disservice if you don't!! It has been a pleasure and a privilege watching Katie Duggan hone and craft her writing skills throughout her last three books. I can't wait to read what's next!
Thank you to Katie Duggan for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I adored every single minute of "On My Side" by Katie Duggan! I looooooved Audrey, Ren, and Piper. Audrey is the owner of the SandPiper Inn, who has shut herself away after being shunned by her family, friends, and community when she became a single teen mom. Her daughter, Piper, is a terrific firecracker of a kid, an autistic teenager who wants a cat and loves playing piano. Ren knew Audrey when he was younger and didn't understand the extent of why she withdrew when she had her baby. It has been years since he has seen her, and it turns out, he is going to be Piper's piano teacher. Ren is a huge nerd and an even bigger softy. He is demi and pansexual, and Audrey is bisexual. Audrey and Ren feel a spark between each other instantly. I feel like I cried so much while reading this?? Actually, I alternated between laughing and crying like a maniac. It's cathartic and geeky and gentle and representative and accepting and wonderful. The issues discussed in this story are serious and adults and are handled with grace and care and tenderness. I was rooting for Ren, Audrey, and Piper the whole time. I loved the banter between all of the characters. I enjoyed getting a peek at what's to come from the Quiblings series and checking in with past couples (Nic and Josh, and Jo and Hunter). I just loved this story so, so much. I love how Duggan normalizes apologizing, aftercare, checking in, taking space, and saying sorry. The pacing is excellent, and the book is not too long. Please read all of the Quiblings books. You're doing yourself a disservice if you don't!! It has been a pleasure and a privilege watching Katie Duggan hone and craft her writing skills throughout her last three books. I can't wait to read what's next!
Thank you to Katie Duggan for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
August 6, 2025
“We must be in middle school, because holding hands with Audrey Hinton is the most thrilling thing to ever happen to me.”🥰
Ren & Audrey were just too much. I have a cavity from this sweetness and Ren, oh my god I love that big handsome dork. He, Audrey and Piper fit together so perfectly.
“Aud. Pipe. He’s comfortable with us. He’s shortening our names like he’s ours, like we’re his.”♥️
I adore this family and this series. It just keeps on getting better. I am feral for more. I love that Audrey was Kat’s best friend growing up, Kat clearly just needs a big hug and a soft spot to land right now.
A big thank you to the author Katie Duggan for the advanced reading copy, all my opinions are my own.
Ren & Audrey were just too much. I have a cavity from this sweetness and Ren, oh my god I love that big handsome dork. He, Audrey and Piper fit together so perfectly.
“Aud. Pipe. He’s comfortable with us. He’s shortening our names like he’s ours, like we’re his.”♥️
I adore this family and this series. It just keeps on getting better. I am feral for more. I love that Audrey was Kat’s best friend growing up, Kat clearly just needs a big hug and a soft spot to land right now.
A big thank you to the author Katie Duggan for the advanced reading copy, all my opinions are my own.
July 18, 2025
On My Side by Katie Duggan – 5 ★ (but really, infinity stars)
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and somehow… it was better than I even dared hope. It’s no exaggeration when I say this book meant so much to me. Katie Duggan just keeps getting better with every story she writes, and this? This is her best work yet.
First things first: the cover. It’s stunning and feels so perfectly Audrey and Ren. And when I learned Katie pictured David Corenswet as Ren in her head canon? Yeah, that tracks. A handsome, sweet, humble, nerdy, filthy mouthed grump who’s secretly the softest man alive? SIGN. ME. UP.
I highlighted so much of this book, but one of my absolute favorite moments was this:
“Why don’t you want to be happy, Mama?”
“I am happy, birdie. I’m always happy with you.”
“You literally have depression.”
I laughed so hard I had to put the book down. Piper is my girl. She’s hilarious, super smart, and such a bright spot in this story. Honestly, one of the best teen characters I’ve read in a long time. And can we just take a moment to appreciate how Katie Duggan does representation? She is consistently one of the best at it, and this book is no exception.
✅ Autism (Piper’s portrayal was phenomenal; she’s just a teenager with autism, not defined by it. Her sensory conversations made me feel so seen.)
✅ Fat/body image struggles rep
✅ Sex work rep (handled with so much respect!)
✅ Mental illness rep (depression, trauma—realistic and validating)
✅ Single mom rep (Audrey is everything)
✅ Queer rep
✅ Catholic/religious trauma rep (beautifully and thoughtfully explored)
Audrey and Piper’s relationship? Pure Gilmore Girls perfection. You can feel their love for each other in every interaction. They are Lorelai and Rory coded, and I know that’s intentional and wow, Katie sure nailed it. Audrey is such a layered FMC; she’s been through so much, but she’s an incredible mother, and her strength radiates even when she’s at her most vulnerable.
And then there’s Ren. Sweet, nerdy, Star Wars loving, music teaching Ren Quinn. I adore him. This man was made for the “he falls first” trope. The way he loves Audrey and Piper? The care, the patience, the respect? UGH. This man is my new gold standard for book boyfriends. And yes, he’s a freak in the best way possible; his dirty talk as Sky had me blushing, but it was that distinct line he drew between Sky (his work persona) and Ren (his true self) that absolutely killed me in the best way. He wanted Audrey to love him, not just Sky, and that made every intimate moment feel so tender and so earned. Katie strikes that perfect balance of hot and heartfelt every time.
I also loved the discussions around religion and religious trauma. Both Audrey and Ren’s experiences, and even how side characters influenced their choices, were handled with so much care. It’s a deeply personal topic, but Katie navigated it with nuance and empathy.
Oh, and I can’t forget Princess Leia, the cat. Piper’s obsession with her absolutely cracked me up, and Leia was such a hilarious little furry addition to this family. Every scene with her just made the book feel even warmer and cozier.
And finally, the romance. Watching Audrey slowly let her walls down for Ren, and watching Ren fight to show her she is so worthy of love, was the kind of emotional, slow burn magic that stays with you long after you close the book. Their chemistry was so palpable that I could literally feel it, and I love when a book is able to do that for me. But it was the quiet moments between them: the trust, the softness, the laughter that truly melted me.
Oh, and Kat’s book??? KAT’S. BOOK. I need it yesterday. Katie Duggan, you cannot leave us hanging like this!
This book is the perfect mix of Gilmore Girls, The Bergman Brothers series by Chloe Liese, and Can I Tell You Something? by Holly June Smith but also completely, uniquely its own. I already preordered a physical copy, and I know this is a book I’ll be reading again.
On My Side is everything. Everything. If you want a book that will make you laugh, cry, kick your feet, and feel seen, this is it. Katie Duggan writes love stories that matter, and this one is her best yet.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – and if I could give it more, I would!
Thank you to Katie Duggan for the amazing ARC of this book.
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and somehow… it was better than I even dared hope. It’s no exaggeration when I say this book meant so much to me. Katie Duggan just keeps getting better with every story she writes, and this? This is her best work yet.
First things first: the cover. It’s stunning and feels so perfectly Audrey and Ren. And when I learned Katie pictured David Corenswet as Ren in her head canon? Yeah, that tracks. A handsome, sweet, humble, nerdy, filthy mouthed grump who’s secretly the softest man alive? SIGN. ME. UP.
I highlighted so much of this book, but one of my absolute favorite moments was this:
“Why don’t you want to be happy, Mama?”
“I am happy, birdie. I’m always happy with you.”
“You literally have depression.”
I laughed so hard I had to put the book down. Piper is my girl. She’s hilarious, super smart, and such a bright spot in this story. Honestly, one of the best teen characters I’ve read in a long time. And can we just take a moment to appreciate how Katie Duggan does representation? She is consistently one of the best at it, and this book is no exception.
✅ Autism (Piper’s portrayal was phenomenal; she’s just a teenager with autism, not defined by it. Her sensory conversations made me feel so seen.)
✅ Fat/body image struggles rep
✅ Sex work rep (handled with so much respect!)
✅ Mental illness rep (depression, trauma—realistic and validating)
✅ Single mom rep (Audrey is everything)
✅ Queer rep
✅ Catholic/religious trauma rep (beautifully and thoughtfully explored)
Audrey and Piper’s relationship? Pure Gilmore Girls perfection. You can feel their love for each other in every interaction. They are Lorelai and Rory coded, and I know that’s intentional and wow, Katie sure nailed it. Audrey is such a layered FMC; she’s been through so much, but she’s an incredible mother, and her strength radiates even when she’s at her most vulnerable.
And then there’s Ren. Sweet, nerdy, Star Wars loving, music teaching Ren Quinn. I adore him. This man was made for the “he falls first” trope. The way he loves Audrey and Piper? The care, the patience, the respect? UGH. This man is my new gold standard for book boyfriends. And yes, he’s a freak in the best way possible; his dirty talk as Sky had me blushing, but it was that distinct line he drew between Sky (his work persona) and Ren (his true self) that absolutely killed me in the best way. He wanted Audrey to love him, not just Sky, and that made every intimate moment feel so tender and so earned. Katie strikes that perfect balance of hot and heartfelt every time.
I also loved the discussions around religion and religious trauma. Both Audrey and Ren’s experiences, and even how side characters influenced their choices, were handled with so much care. It’s a deeply personal topic, but Katie navigated it with nuance and empathy.
Oh, and I can’t forget Princess Leia, the cat. Piper’s obsession with her absolutely cracked me up, and Leia was such a hilarious little furry addition to this family. Every scene with her just made the book feel even warmer and cozier.
And finally, the romance. Watching Audrey slowly let her walls down for Ren, and watching Ren fight to show her she is so worthy of love, was the kind of emotional, slow burn magic that stays with you long after you close the book. Their chemistry was so palpable that I could literally feel it, and I love when a book is able to do that for me. But it was the quiet moments between them: the trust, the softness, the laughter that truly melted me.
Oh, and Kat’s book??? KAT’S. BOOK. I need it yesterday. Katie Duggan, you cannot leave us hanging like this!
This book is the perfect mix of Gilmore Girls, The Bergman Brothers series by Chloe Liese, and Can I Tell You Something? by Holly June Smith but also completely, uniquely its own. I already preordered a physical copy, and I know this is a book I’ll be reading again.
On My Side is everything. Everything. If you want a book that will make you laugh, cry, kick your feet, and feel seen, this is it. Katie Duggan writes love stories that matter, and this one is her best yet.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – and if I could give it more, I would!
Thank you to Katie Duggan for the amazing ARC of this book.
August 8, 2025
2.5 🌟
Rounding up on this one because I’m genuinely so conflicted.
Ugh I wanted to love this so much, but unfortunately it didn’t deliver for me.
I loved the mental health rep and diverse sexuality (pan, demi, bi, etc.) rep present throughout this book. It genuinely taught me something new and I appreciated the openness of the characters. It felt real and raw from that aspect.
I also appreciated a story with an “older” FMC, aka she wasn’t in her 20s. It was nice to see a book with the FMC in her 30s, and also the older person in the relationship.
I think my biggest struggle with this book was the writing style. It was very dialogue heavy, which I can appreciate because it can keep a book moving. With that, I do feel it lacked description sometimes and the plot jumped around and made it difficult for *me* to follow along at points.
I was honestly so bummed that we didn’t get more depth to the audio erotica storyline. Given that was one of the main subjects of the book, I thought it would have been delved into a little more. It was only like 1-2 lines at a time, and I think I just expected a little more depth for that to be the MMC’s side job where he’s the top performer.
The end was a bit chaotic. There were plots introduced that I’d forgotten about until the very end and then they were quickly resolved. It almost felt like it may have been better to just do without them (I.e. the sister’s marriage, the daughter’s accident).
Overall, it was a decent story. It’s very simple and still has a warm and heartfelt tone to it. The author is super sweet, so I wanted to support. This book just wasn’t completely for me.
Thank you Katie Duggan for an eARC of On My Side. All thoughts are my own, I was not compensated for this review in any way.
Rounding up on this one because I’m genuinely so conflicted.
Ugh I wanted to love this so much, but unfortunately it didn’t deliver for me.
I loved the mental health rep and diverse sexuality (pan, demi, bi, etc.) rep present throughout this book. It genuinely taught me something new and I appreciated the openness of the characters. It felt real and raw from that aspect.
I also appreciated a story with an “older” FMC, aka she wasn’t in her 20s. It was nice to see a book with the FMC in her 30s, and also the older person in the relationship.
I think my biggest struggle with this book was the writing style. It was very dialogue heavy, which I can appreciate because it can keep a book moving. With that, I do feel it lacked description sometimes and the plot jumped around and made it difficult for *me* to follow along at points.
I was honestly so bummed that we didn’t get more depth to the audio erotica storyline. Given that was one of the main subjects of the book, I thought it would have been delved into a little more. It was only like 1-2 lines at a time, and I think I just expected a little more depth for that to be the MMC’s side job where he’s the top performer.
The end was a bit chaotic. There were plots introduced that I’d forgotten about until the very end and then they were quickly resolved. It almost felt like it may have been better to just do without them (I.e. the sister’s marriage, the daughter’s accident).
Overall, it was a decent story. It’s very simple and still has a warm and heartfelt tone to it. The author is super sweet, so I wanted to support. This book just wasn’t completely for me.
Thank you Katie Duggan for an eARC of On My Side. All thoughts are my own, I was not compensated for this review in any way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
Thank you to Katie for the e-arc, I enjoyed every aspect of this book and cannot wait for all fellow readers to read this.
If you’re just like me, you’ll enjoy this queer single parent romance!
A book that spotlights depression and its chronic effects on an adults life were so incredibly written, as an individual who has depression this made me so happy to read.
Depression isn’t just something that can easily go away, it’s a condition that lingers in an individuals life and although it doesn’t define us it does has its impacts on our lives.
Bisexual single mom? Yeah, get behind me Audrey!!
Audrey was an absolute gem to read about, seeing the way she was treated as a young girl broke my heart. The adults in her life failed her and I’m so glad the author didn’t shy away from this conversation.
Audrey is such an amazing mom to Piper, I loved seeing their interactions. They are such a great mother/daughter duo.
Ren is a complete gentleman, seeing Demi and Pan rep through the perspective of an audio erotica narrator was so incredibly important! It challenges the stereotype that all sex workers are sexual in every aspect of their lives.
Audrey’s dynamic with Ren is so precious, they both understand each other and bring out their best parts of themselves. They are respectful of boundaries and encourage each other to be better. One of the purest forms of love!
Their chemistry too!! Too damn good 🙂↕️❤️
Princess Leia gets her own shoutout because she’s a cutie patootie.
If you’re just like me, you’ll enjoy this queer single parent romance!
A book that spotlights depression and its chronic effects on an adults life were so incredibly written, as an individual who has depression this made me so happy to read.
Depression isn’t just something that can easily go away, it’s a condition that lingers in an individuals life and although it doesn’t define us it does has its impacts on our lives.
Bisexual single mom? Yeah, get behind me Audrey!!
Audrey was an absolute gem to read about, seeing the way she was treated as a young girl broke my heart. The adults in her life failed her and I’m so glad the author didn’t shy away from this conversation.
Audrey is such an amazing mom to Piper, I loved seeing their interactions. They are such a great mother/daughter duo.
Ren is a complete gentleman, seeing Demi and Pan rep through the perspective of an audio erotica narrator was so incredibly important! It challenges the stereotype that all sex workers are sexual in every aspect of their lives.
Audrey’s dynamic with Ren is so precious, they both understand each other and bring out their best parts of themselves. They are respectful of boundaries and encourage each other to be better. One of the purest forms of love!
Their chemistry too!! Too damn good 🙂↕️❤️
Princess Leia gets her own shoutout because she’s a cutie patootie.
August 4, 2025
On My Side is about what happens when a single mom encounters her favorite audio erotica creator out in the wild, who just so happens to be her daughter's new piano teacher. MHM! I KNOW!
The audio creator angle of the book was SO fun and intriguing. The anticipation of when she would realize her favorite creator is him and when he would find out she's a listener was delicious. I also loved all the inclusion of his production process. It's so fun that we are seeing these two worlds crossover in fiction more often.
Additionally, the intimacy in On My Side was off the charts and beautifually crafted. Ren's demisexuality was highlighted in a way that let us know him more as a character and also helped us as the reader understand his feelings and desire for Audrey. All of this made their physical and emotionally intimacy so tender AND hot. The spicy scenes were not only fun but felt so meaningful and important to their relationship.
I also really adored the family and forgiveness messages in this book. And to be clear it was not just "forgive because they're family". There was pain, mistakes and reparations all written about in a way that felt nuanced and true to the characters. Alongside that journey, I loved Audrey's relationship with her teenage daughter Piper as well as Piper's burgeoning relationship with Ren. Usually in single parent books we get young children, so a teenage daughter like Piper was a breath of fresh air.
The audio creator angle of the book was SO fun and intriguing. The anticipation of when she would realize her favorite creator is him and when he would find out she's a listener was delicious. I also loved all the inclusion of his production process. It's so fun that we are seeing these two worlds crossover in fiction more often.
Additionally, the intimacy in On My Side was off the charts and beautifually crafted. Ren's demisexuality was highlighted in a way that let us know him more as a character and also helped us as the reader understand his feelings and desire for Audrey. All of this made their physical and emotionally intimacy so tender AND hot. The spicy scenes were not only fun but felt so meaningful and important to their relationship.
I also really adored the family and forgiveness messages in this book. And to be clear it was not just "forgive because they're family". There was pain, mistakes and reparations all written about in a way that felt nuanced and true to the characters. Alongside that journey, I loved Audrey's relationship with her teenage daughter Piper as well as Piper's burgeoning relationship with Ren. Usually in single parent books we get young children, so a teenage daughter like Piper was a breath of fresh air.
July 28, 2025
| arc review |
"I never knew happiness like this could be effortless."
This story... I am absolutely in love with it.
Not only were the characters wonderful as usual, the storyline in and of itself was absolutely amazing.
Ren & Audrey absolutely stole my heart.
Audrey's history absolutely broke my heart but the way she went about life and how she grew? Wonderful.
Ren... Lorenzo... my man. He truly gave me some insights into my own life and gave me some clarity on particular things. Which I never expected to happen but I think it was needed.
Katie keeps absolutely surprising me with her stories. Everytime I think it can't get better, she surprises me over and over again.
I adooooore Piper so so much. That girl made me laugh out loud a couple of times (which is awkward when you're on a quiet train but it's okay).
I am so thankful I got to read this beautiful story before its official release. I cannot wait for the Quibling's stories to continue in 2026! ✨🤍
"I never knew happiness like this could be effortless."
This story... I am absolutely in love with it.
Not only were the characters wonderful as usual, the storyline in and of itself was absolutely amazing.
Ren & Audrey absolutely stole my heart.
Audrey's history absolutely broke my heart but the way she went about life and how she grew? Wonderful.
Ren... Lorenzo... my man. He truly gave me some insights into my own life and gave me some clarity on particular things. Which I never expected to happen but I think it was needed.
Katie keeps absolutely surprising me with her stories. Everytime I think it can't get better, she surprises me over and over again.
I adooooore Piper so so much. That girl made me laugh out loud a couple of times (which is awkward when you're on a quiet train but it's okay).
I am so thankful I got to read this beautiful story before its official release. I cannot wait for the Quibling's stories to continue in 2026! ✨🤍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
4.75/5 - ARC Review
I adored every single thing about this book: the characters, the incredible representation for neurodivergence, plus-size characters, mental health representation, how it’s unapologetically queer, the plot, the spice - just absolutely everything!
Ren and Audrey are both such well rounded characters. Ren is struggling with being the “perfect” son and brother, almost neglecting his own needs and wants. Audrey is afraid of letting people in after how her community treated her when she was a teenager.
It was beautiful to see how accepting they were of each other’s insecurities, how they grew together as a couple and individually, and learned to communicate their wants and needs.
I know the bar is in hell because the way Ren acted with so much compassion and love when learning about Audrey’s body image issues and her setting boundaries should be the bare minimum, but it really made me tear up. I haven’t seen much of this representation in books with plus size characters and we need more of it. Also the mirror scene?! Obsessed!
Audrey’s daughter Piper is also an absolute icon and I loved her interactions with Ren and also the open and honest conversations between Audrey and Piper.
If you enjoy romance with a focus on emotional connection, real characters and a funny and sassy teenager, definitely add this book to your TBR!
Thank you to the author for the eARC!
I adored every single thing about this book: the characters, the incredible representation for neurodivergence, plus-size characters, mental health representation, how it’s unapologetically queer, the plot, the spice - just absolutely everything!
Ren and Audrey are both such well rounded characters. Ren is struggling with being the “perfect” son and brother, almost neglecting his own needs and wants. Audrey is afraid of letting people in after how her community treated her when she was a teenager.
It was beautiful to see how accepting they were of each other’s insecurities, how they grew together as a couple and individually, and learned to communicate their wants and needs.
I know the bar is in hell because the way Ren acted with so much compassion and love when learning about Audrey’s body image issues and her setting boundaries should be the bare minimum, but it really made me tear up. I haven’t seen much of this representation in books with plus size characters and we need more of it. Also the mirror scene?! Obsessed!
Audrey’s daughter Piper is also an absolute icon and I loved her interactions with Ren and also the open and honest conversations between Audrey and Piper.
If you enjoy romance with a focus on emotional connection, real characters and a funny and sassy teenager, definitely add this book to your TBR!
Thank you to the author for the eARC!
August 10, 2025
this was my first book by this author & oh my gosh… i’m OBSESSED 😍 the rep in this book top tier!! autistic daughter, queer characters, depression rep, age gap, single parent romance, sunshine x sunshine literally a buffet of goodness!! 🫶💛
ren & audrey’s connection feels so real no insta-love here, just sweet, awkward & genuine moments. && the relationship between ren & piper?? pure serotonin 🥹✨ bonus points for making him a total star wars nerd 🌌🚀 because i love a nerdy man 😏
the writing is hilarious & heartfelt sprinkled with perfect little references that had me grinning the whole time! i loved every second & will 100% be binging the rest of this series 📖💫
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 stars ✨
read if you enjoy:
🍎 single mom x teacher
🕵️ hidden identity
💌 childhood crush to lovers
⛓️ bdsm hints
🏳️🌈 queer & autism rep
🏠 forced proximity
ren & audrey’s connection feels so real no insta-love here, just sweet, awkward & genuine moments. && the relationship between ren & piper?? pure serotonin 🥹✨ bonus points for making him a total star wars nerd 🌌🚀 because i love a nerdy man 😏
the writing is hilarious & heartfelt sprinkled with perfect little references that had me grinning the whole time! i loved every second & will 100% be binging the rest of this series 📖💫
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 stars ✨
read if you enjoy:
🍎 single mom x teacher
🕵️ hidden identity
💌 childhood crush to lovers
⛓️ bdsm hints
🏳️🌈 queer & autism rep
🏠 forced proximity
August 10, 2025
*insert meme of dog screaming into the pillow* FUCK
This is my new favorite Quiblings book, they truly just keep getting better and better. I screamed into a pillow, bit my fist, giggled, kicked my feet, and covered my face the ENTIRE book!!!! Ren and Audrey’s love is so pure for each other, for Piper, and hell even for Leia. WHICH REMINDS MEEEE I love that there was a cat 🤪
God I loved literally every single thing about this book I have no real words just imagine me banging my fists on the ground and screaming
ALSO pan, demi, AND bisexual rep??? she’s beautiful she’s stunning she’s gorgeous
This is my new favorite Quiblings book, they truly just keep getting better and better. I screamed into a pillow, bit my fist, giggled, kicked my feet, and covered my face the ENTIRE book!!!! Ren and Audrey’s love is so pure for each other, for Piper, and hell even for Leia. WHICH REMINDS MEEEE I love that there was a cat 🤪
God I loved literally every single thing about this book I have no real words just imagine me banging my fists on the ground and screaming
ALSO pan, demi, AND bisexual rep??? she’s beautiful she’s stunning she’s gorgeous
July 27, 2025
4.5⭐️ This series just keeps getting better!! Katie has a way of writing characters that feel real and are very relatable. Had a little bit of a slow start for me but once I was in, I was obsessed. I’m also a sucker for single parents. The relationship between Ren and Audrey’s daughter piper developed so sweetly. I also loved how the rest of the Quinn family was woven into this book! Made me very excited for the next one!!!
July 18, 2025
Katie’s best yet!
Ren and Audrey (and Piper) are such fantastic characters with depth and just. Ahhhh.
I saw so much of myself in Audrey that I cried quite a few times throughout the book.
It was an honor to receive an ARC and I can’t wait to have the complete (for now!) set on my shelf.
Ren and Audrey (and Piper) are such fantastic characters with depth and just. Ahhhh.
I saw so much of myself in Audrey that I cried quite a few times throughout the book.
It was an honor to receive an ARC and I can’t wait to have the complete (for now!) set on my shelf.
August 6, 2025
I am blown away?? Picked this book up on a WHIM and it was amazing???
I highly recommend this book if you want spicy but also so so heartfelt and beautiful. We love two people learning to accept themselves for who they are and loving each other wholly and completely!!!!
I highly recommend this book if you want spicy but also so so heartfelt and beautiful. We love two people learning to accept themselves for who they are and loving each other wholly and completely!!!!
July 25, 2025
I swear this series just gets better and better! I am so grateful to have gotten an ARC of this one so I could read it early! Unfortunately I’m already dying for the next one! 😅
Ren Quinn works hard to appear a model son, brother, and elementary school music teacher by day, but he also has a side job as Sky, one of the top creators on the 4Play audio erotica app. When a friend asks him to teach summer lessons for one student even though he already decided not to teach private lessons this summer, his people pleasing instincts kick in and he says yes. What he did not expect was that the mother of his student would be Audrey Hinton (formerly Price) - his older sister’s high school bff and his childhood crush. Audrey changed her name and appearance when she moved back to town after being ostracized as a pregnant teen. She works hard to stay out of the public eye to make life easier for herself and her daughter, Piper. As they navigate their reunion and the unexpected relationship, they become closer, but when they uncover secrets and have to face their own fears they have to decide if they can love each other for who they truly are.
I feel like I say it about every main character in this series, but I absolutely adored Ren and Audrey. Ren was absolutely adorable in his nerdiness and I loved that he was so relatable. As a people pleaser myself, I completely understand the pressure that he felt to be exactly what everyone needed. The representation of depression also felt really realistic because even though both Ren and Audrey suffered from depression they were still very different. Sometimes it feels like characters who suffer from depression can be very stereotypical and one-note, but in reality depression has a million different faces so I really appreciated the nuances. The mental health representation in general is absolutely fantastic.
I also love the neurodivergence representation which is mainly portrayed through Piper in this book. While she does have conversations about sensory issues and they talk about her autism, it isn’t the main thing about her. In many ways, she is just a teenager. She is sarcastic and snippy sometimes and wants to prioritize looking good over function. Shout out to my sister who fought with our parents almost daily about wearing flip flops to high school in winter lol. I loved the way that you could tell Audrey raised Piper to be able to speak up for herself and what she needs as well as when she is uncomfortable.
Now, the romance in this book was soooo good! I loved that we had bi, demi, and pan representation and that they were all portrayed in such a thoughtful way. The way that Ren explained how his sexuality impacted his own romantic encounters was fantastic! I love the way that this series shows people using the terms that they are comfortable with to describe their sexuality, but also recognizes that there is additional nuance because sexuality can be experienced in so many different ways. I loved the way that Ren and Audrey could both take control in spicy scenes and that they were both so good at and comfortable with dirty talk. It seems like a lot of books focus on masculine characters doing dirty talk and praise, but Audrey was awesome. I also really appreciated that Ren was so great about Audrey’s body image struggles. Pointing out that her body had done so many amazing things and not just making it sexual was absolutely perfect.
Lastly, I just have to say that I really loved Princess Leia. I felt like she had such a big personality and the way that she and Piper bonded so quickly was adorable. The jokes about Piper cat-napping Leia were hilarious.
I would give this book and this series a million stars if I could. I absolutely love every minute of reading it and I know I will be reading it all again! Thank you Katie Duggan for this amazing series and I cannot wait to read more of it.
Ren Quinn works hard to appear a model son, brother, and elementary school music teacher by day, but he also has a side job as Sky, one of the top creators on the 4Play audio erotica app. When a friend asks him to teach summer lessons for one student even though he already decided not to teach private lessons this summer, his people pleasing instincts kick in and he says yes. What he did not expect was that the mother of his student would be Audrey Hinton (formerly Price) - his older sister’s high school bff and his childhood crush. Audrey changed her name and appearance when she moved back to town after being ostracized as a pregnant teen. She works hard to stay out of the public eye to make life easier for herself and her daughter, Piper. As they navigate their reunion and the unexpected relationship, they become closer, but when they uncover secrets and have to face their own fears they have to decide if they can love each other for who they truly are.
I feel like I say it about every main character in this series, but I absolutely adored Ren and Audrey. Ren was absolutely adorable in his nerdiness and I loved that he was so relatable. As a people pleaser myself, I completely understand the pressure that he felt to be exactly what everyone needed. The representation of depression also felt really realistic because even though both Ren and Audrey suffered from depression they were still very different. Sometimes it feels like characters who suffer from depression can be very stereotypical and one-note, but in reality depression has a million different faces so I really appreciated the nuances. The mental health representation in general is absolutely fantastic.
I also love the neurodivergence representation which is mainly portrayed through Piper in this book. While she does have conversations about sensory issues and they talk about her autism, it isn’t the main thing about her. In many ways, she is just a teenager. She is sarcastic and snippy sometimes and wants to prioritize looking good over function. Shout out to my sister who fought with our parents almost daily about wearing flip flops to high school in winter lol. I loved the way that you could tell Audrey raised Piper to be able to speak up for herself and what she needs as well as when she is uncomfortable.
Now, the romance in this book was soooo good! I loved that we had bi, demi, and pan representation and that they were all portrayed in such a thoughtful way. The way that Ren explained how his sexuality impacted his own romantic encounters was fantastic! I love the way that this series shows people using the terms that they are comfortable with to describe their sexuality, but also recognizes that there is additional nuance because sexuality can be experienced in so many different ways. I loved the way that Ren and Audrey could both take control in spicy scenes and that they were both so good at and comfortable with dirty talk. It seems like a lot of books focus on masculine characters doing dirty talk and praise, but Audrey was awesome. I also really appreciated that Ren was so great about Audrey’s body image struggles. Pointing out that her body had done so many amazing things and not just making it sexual was absolutely perfect.
Lastly, I just have to say that I really loved Princess Leia. I felt like she had such a big personality and the way that she and Piper bonded so quickly was adorable. The jokes about Piper cat-napping Leia were hilarious.
I would give this book and this series a million stars if I could. I absolutely love every minute of reading it and I know I will be reading it all again! Thank you Katie Duggan for this amazing series and I cannot wait to read more of it.
November 6, 2025
i loved this. this should probably get a 4.5, actually. i loved that everyone in this book felt fully fleshed out and real, which is the number one thing i’m looking for and also why so many books fall flat for me. but not this one.
audrey is a whole person, not just “a woman who is nice and hot” which tends to be the archetype we get a lot for fmcs. audrey is complicated and depressed and has a lot of internalized guilt and shame over her past and her circumstances surrounding being a mother, but she’s also so loving and so careful about her daughter and so dedicated to being the best mother that she can be. she’s stubborn and has a difficult time seeing the big picture sometimes. this book also does a really good job at highlighting the difficulties of being someone with people-pleaser tendencies without whacking you over the head with it. maybe i’m just extra picky, but there’s a lot of books that want to lean in to the “you take care of everyone but who takes care of you” vibe, but so many of those books just want to use that as a line and not actually detail that experience, or do it in such an overdramatized way that it no longer feels realistic.
and the people pleaser thing is true for both audrey and ren in this book, which is especially interesting because it’s something that manifests differently for both of them. and ren is such a lovely character. he’s kind and supportive and desperate to show love to people even when he’s struggling to find his own way through the fear of not being loved if he’s not being useful. he’s sexy and fun and loves to play along, no matter the situation. he’s very open and nonjudgmental, and it’s wonderful to have a character who is so emotionally honest juxtaposed with a character who has such difficulty with emotional honesty, even to herself.
i will say, even as a gilmore girls fan who practically has the whole show memorized by this point, the gilmore obsession in this book was simultaneously really sweet, and incredibly heavy handed in a way that got to be a little grating by the end. although i do see and appreciate that this book is a little bit like a love letter to the show, which is really fun to pay attention to even if it feels a little pandery.
and piper and leia and the quinn family all just feel so truly present in the book, even when they’re not on the page, and i think that’s an excellent testament to a book that truly feels like all the characters who live in that world could actually real.
audrey is a whole person, not just “a woman who is nice and hot” which tends to be the archetype we get a lot for fmcs. audrey is complicated and depressed and has a lot of internalized guilt and shame over her past and her circumstances surrounding being a mother, but she’s also so loving and so careful about her daughter and so dedicated to being the best mother that she can be. she’s stubborn and has a difficult time seeing the big picture sometimes. this book also does a really good job at highlighting the difficulties of being someone with people-pleaser tendencies without whacking you over the head with it. maybe i’m just extra picky, but there’s a lot of books that want to lean in to the “you take care of everyone but who takes care of you” vibe, but so many of those books just want to use that as a line and not actually detail that experience, or do it in such an overdramatized way that it no longer feels realistic.
and the people pleaser thing is true for both audrey and ren in this book, which is especially interesting because it’s something that manifests differently for both of them. and ren is such a lovely character. he’s kind and supportive and desperate to show love to people even when he’s struggling to find his own way through the fear of not being loved if he’s not being useful. he’s sexy and fun and loves to play along, no matter the situation. he’s very open and nonjudgmental, and it’s wonderful to have a character who is so emotionally honest juxtaposed with a character who has such difficulty with emotional honesty, even to herself.
i will say, even as a gilmore girls fan who practically has the whole show memorized by this point, the gilmore obsession in this book was simultaneously really sweet, and incredibly heavy handed in a way that got to be a little grating by the end. although i do see and appreciate that this book is a little bit like a love letter to the show, which is really fun to pay attention to even if it feels a little pandery.
and piper and leia and the quinn family all just feel so truly present in the book, even when they’re not on the page, and i think that’s an excellent testament to a book that truly feels like all the characters who live in that world could actually real.
July 30, 2025
I was hooked from the beginning even though age gap romances aren’t usually my thing 💘 This story completely won me over with its beautiful blend of heart, humor, and healing. We get a bi single mom who runs an inn, a demipan piano instructor who moonlights as a smut narrator (yup, you read that right 😏), and Audrey, who just so happens to be a fan of Ren’s work. This was my 2nd read featuring ace rep, and I genuinely loved every bit of it. As an ace person myself who hasn’t dated since coming out, it was so refreshing to learn more about what dating can look like for a demi character. The author handled it all with such tenderness and care.
One of the many highlights? Everyone goes to therapy 🧠💬 Yes, healthy communication for the win! Audrey’s daughter Piper is autistic. I know autism varies from person to person, but oh my god, I laughed my ass off at Piper’s blunt commentary 😂 That girl is wise beyond her years and definitely too old for her teenage self. Ren was hands down the best piano instructor she could’ve asked for. The book includes queer and disability rep in the side characters too. Nic and Piper were like mirrors of each other, and honestly? Piper being so unapologetically blunt made me love her even more 🙌
Audrey was relatable in so many ways as someone who struggles with body dysmorphia, and Ren’s constant reassurance melted me 🥹 He’s the consent king 👑 just like my Sylus 🥰 Always checking in, always making sure Audrey felt wanted and safe. He went above and beyond for her, even though he’d been in love with his big sister’s best friend since he was 9 😭 Audrey and Piper had this cat daddy wrapped right around their pinkies 🐈💗 and the banter between the 3 of them was everything. So hilarious and so full of heart. The spice was fluffy for me even with a "dicktionary" involved. Did that slow burn payoff in the end? Yes 👨🏻🍳 💋
This is my honest opinion of the ARC I received. Thank you so much Katie for the opportunity!
July 30, 2025
It was so wonderful to be back in this world that Katie has created! This was book 3 of The Quiblings Series, where we meet the Quinn siblings, and this was Ren’s Story.
Ren is the eldest brother and, as so, find himself feeling the pressure of supporting his family. He works as an elementary school teacher by day, but also works making spicy audio content for his followers under his alter ego Sky.
Audrey lives with her teenage daughter, Piper, and runs the local inn she inherited from her late Aunt. She grew up in this small town, but after it turned its back on her when she fell pregnant as a teenager, she now keeps herself hidden away to protect herself and Piper. She lives a quiet life of working at the Inn, bringing up her daughter, and has a small obsession with a certain spicy audio creator.
When Ren and Audrey meet, they soon realise there linked past. Their relationship means they both have to work to break down some walls and boundaries they gave themselves and learn to let someone love them for who they really are.
I absolutely loved Ren and Audrey's story. They both have there issues to work through but end up being a good support for each other. I thought that the representation of depression was really well written into the story, as was Pipers Autism. I also really enjoyed how their relationship took some time to come together and grow and evolve. It felt realistic and natural, especially given the characters' back stories. The same goes for the spicy scenes. They felt natural and progressed over time. Their communication was really good too, which I love to see. There were also lots of lovely heartwarming moments and some funny stuff too, especially the banter between Audrey and Piper, and the group chats!
I am really excited for the next book in the series to see where it goes next!
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
Ren is the eldest brother and, as so, find himself feeling the pressure of supporting his family. He works as an elementary school teacher by day, but also works making spicy audio content for his followers under his alter ego Sky.
Audrey lives with her teenage daughter, Piper, and runs the local inn she inherited from her late Aunt. She grew up in this small town, but after it turned its back on her when she fell pregnant as a teenager, she now keeps herself hidden away to protect herself and Piper. She lives a quiet life of working at the Inn, bringing up her daughter, and has a small obsession with a certain spicy audio creator.
When Ren and Audrey meet, they soon realise there linked past. Their relationship means they both have to work to break down some walls and boundaries they gave themselves and learn to let someone love them for who they really are.
I absolutely loved Ren and Audrey's story. They both have there issues to work through but end up being a good support for each other. I thought that the representation of depression was really well written into the story, as was Pipers Autism. I also really enjoyed how their relationship took some time to come together and grow and evolve. It felt realistic and natural, especially given the characters' back stories. The same goes for the spicy scenes. They felt natural and progressed over time. Their communication was really good too, which I love to see. There were also lots of lovely heartwarming moments and some funny stuff too, especially the banter between Audrey and Piper, and the group chats!
I am really excited for the next book in the series to see where it goes next!
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
July 21, 2025
What happens when you realize your daughter’s piano teacher is also your favorite erotic audio content creator?? This premise alone had me ready to devour this book and trust me when I say everything else is just SO good in this one!
Ren is a cat daddy to Princess Leia and music teacher with a large family who has started supplementing his income by voicing audio erotica.
Single mom Audrey got pregnant as a teenager and is living in her hometown with her teenage daughter Piper. Piper is autistic and the attention and care taken to the writing of the character was appreciated and made the story even better because it felt authentic.
I loved the therapy representation in this book. Audrey actively has therapy in the book and talks about how she’s been doing it for years. Ren also talks about therapy and having a depressive episode in the past. Audrey has major depressive disorder, which I share this diagnosis too, and the way it’s written and talked about in the story is such an on point representation of how that disorder is chronic and feels to have in real life.
Love how the author includes things like a demisexual and pansexual character (Ren) and a transgender character (a side character) and how she writes it feels so inclusive and just a natural part of the story.
The banter between Audrey and her daughter Piper is so good and don’t think I missed all the Gilmore Girl mentions and how much it correlates to their own mother daughter relationship.
This one goes down as a favorite of the year and I highly recommend it.
Read this for:
🥰 friends to lovers
🐈 a cute cat
🏡 small town setting
🏳️🌈 queer representation
😔 depression rep
Ren is a cat daddy to Princess Leia and music teacher with a large family who has started supplementing his income by voicing audio erotica.
Single mom Audrey got pregnant as a teenager and is living in her hometown with her teenage daughter Piper. Piper is autistic and the attention and care taken to the writing of the character was appreciated and made the story even better because it felt authentic.
I loved the therapy representation in this book. Audrey actively has therapy in the book and talks about how she’s been doing it for years. Ren also talks about therapy and having a depressive episode in the past. Audrey has major depressive disorder, which I share this diagnosis too, and the way it’s written and talked about in the story is such an on point representation of how that disorder is chronic and feels to have in real life.
Love how the author includes things like a demisexual and pansexual character (Ren) and a transgender character (a side character) and how she writes it feels so inclusive and just a natural part of the story.
The banter between Audrey and her daughter Piper is so good and don’t think I missed all the Gilmore Girl mentions and how much it correlates to their own mother daughter relationship.
This one goes down as a favorite of the year and I highly recommend it.
Read this for:
🥰 friends to lovers
🐈 a cute cat
🏡 small town setting
🏳️🌈 queer representation
😔 depression rep
August 9, 2025
I’ve been a fan of Katie’s books From the Start.... (ironically truly the title of the first book... lol). I loved that this book took on a new side of relationships when bringing together a single mom and her teenagers music teacher. The other books featured FMC’s who wanted to find love and a relationship but this one features Audrey whose been burned so badly by the people in her life (including Ren’s parents and sister) that she would rather keep up the strong walls around herself and her daughter than let anyone in. But persistent (gently and not gross) Ren breaks through by just being his own kind, caring self and by showing up (well he’s hot that helps too).
This books deals less with the capital letters FAT issues than her other books but more with Audrey’s struggle in accepting her post partum/ middle aged body. Mostly it seems like because she’s only had one positive adult influence in her life since she was a pregnant teen and the world is a very cruel place she’s been doing her best to hide from.
I really enjoyed that Piper is a full fledged character in this book and not just some convent sidetone. Well done.
What to expect: Single Mom x Music Teacher, Sunshine/Sunshine, Forced Proximity, He falls first (when he was like 9), Star Wars and Gilmore Girls, not a slow-burn but a relationship that needs it’s time to simmer to perfection.
Reps: Autism /Parenting an Autistic teen, Major depression and trauma, Sex Work (audio), Queer,
Trigger Warnings: Religious Trauma, Body Shaming/Image Issues
Thank You Katie for the ARC for this book. I'm looking forward to the next!
This books deals less with the capital letters FAT issues than her other books but more with Audrey’s struggle in accepting her post partum/ middle aged body. Mostly it seems like because she’s only had one positive adult influence in her life since she was a pregnant teen and the world is a very cruel place she’s been doing her best to hide from.
I really enjoyed that Piper is a full fledged character in this book and not just some convent sidetone. Well done.
What to expect: Single Mom x Music Teacher, Sunshine/Sunshine, Forced Proximity, He falls first (when he was like 9), Star Wars and Gilmore Girls, not a slow-burn but a relationship that needs it’s time to simmer to perfection.
Reps: Autism /Parenting an Autistic teen, Major depression and trauma, Sex Work (audio), Queer,
Trigger Warnings: Religious Trauma, Body Shaming/Image Issues
Thank You Katie for the ARC for this book. I'm looking forward to the next!
August 12, 2025
You had me at ‘audio erotica’
Thank you @KatieDuncan and @lunalit for the #gifted eARC copy of ‘On My Side’ and the laughter of audio erotica fandom.
What you’ll find:
🎹Music teacher x Inn owner
🐈age gap (his sister’s ex-BF)
🎹F-ck it at 34%
🐈Demisexual/bisexual
🎹Consent king
🐈Therapy care
🎹Body positivity
🐈Teen pregnancy
🎹Sex work (audio)
🐈HFN Happy for now
I feel in love with this series. Though I could have zipped right through this book, I didn’t. Instead I savored the slow build up and complexity of each character. I let this one simmer in my thoughts. I’m so thankful to read neuro spicy on page. Two of my children (now young adults) went through similar struggles as Piper which resonated deeply for me. I was especially drawn to the strength of Audrey as a single mother and working through her doubts, depression and anxiety.
Audrey has spent a lifetime hiding from her past and Ren has broken her barrier to try to overcome the hurt, rejection, and self-sabotaging. ‘On My Side’ delivers genuine conversations about life, depression, neurodivergent rituals, body positivity and seeking forgiveness. I wasn’t expecting to fall more in love with the Quinn family all over again. As a mother to three college kids and two teens I’d be blessed to have our family together for weekly dinner, sibling phone chats and looking out for each other. This series is a beautifully written and hopefully inspires families to see the good and foster supportive relationships. Bravo Katie!
Thank you @KatieDuncan and @lunalit for the #gifted eARC copy of ‘On My Side’ and the laughter of audio erotica fandom.
What you’ll find:
🎹Music teacher x Inn owner
🐈age gap (his sister’s ex-BF)
🎹F-ck it at 34%
🐈Demisexual/bisexual
🎹Consent king
🐈Therapy care
🎹Body positivity
🐈Teen pregnancy
🎹Sex work (audio)
🐈HFN Happy for now
I feel in love with this series. Though I could have zipped right through this book, I didn’t. Instead I savored the slow build up and complexity of each character. I let this one simmer in my thoughts. I’m so thankful to read neuro spicy on page. Two of my children (now young adults) went through similar struggles as Piper which resonated deeply for me. I was especially drawn to the strength of Audrey as a single mother and working through her doubts, depression and anxiety.
Audrey has spent a lifetime hiding from her past and Ren has broken her barrier to try to overcome the hurt, rejection, and self-sabotaging. ‘On My Side’ delivers genuine conversations about life, depression, neurodivergent rituals, body positivity and seeking forgiveness. I wasn’t expecting to fall more in love with the Quinn family all over again. As a mother to three college kids and two teens I’d be blessed to have our family together for weekly dinner, sibling phone chats and looking out for each other. This series is a beautifully written and hopefully inspires families to see the good and foster supportive relationships. Bravo Katie!
August 30, 2025
On My Side gets ♾️⭐️ and 1🎹
I am so honored to have received this ARC. Katie is one of my auto-read authors, and their first book (From the Start) is one of my comfort reads. I have been feral from the teasers and snippets that have been posted and now… (angelic chorus)
Anyway, WHEN I TELL U IM OBSESSED WITH THEM
The beta readers did not lie. Ren and Audrey are HOT. They are HORNY. Katie you have done it again!!!!!!
I think Ren has surpassed Josh Henry in my book boyfriend roster, but JUST barely. I think it’s his pathetic neediness tbh. Tho I could be in a Audren sandwich and I would NOT be mad about it. She is Mommy™.
Also, I love that even tho Audrey is older than Ren, that hasn’t been brought up as an issue for their relationship. Audrey is concerned about her reputation and bringing Ren down, not the fact that she’s older.
And Piper, you silly little sausage. In single parent romances, the kiddo(s) don’t always get a lot of air time, but Piper is a full fledged delight and menace to society.
Tropes:
Reverse age gap
Single mom
Small New England town (highly recommend reading while on the East Coast for maximum vibes)
The horniest dry humping scene I have ever read
And, naturally, he 🏁 in his pants
“Good girl/boy”
“Fuck it”
MDD rep!!!!!! (Ft. Therapy and meds!!!!!!!!!!)
Autism rep!!!
Demi/pan/bisexual rep!!!!!
TW:
Depression things
Discussion of abortion
Teen pregnancy (past)
Body image things
Religious trauma
Missing pet (IT’S OKAY THEY FIND HER)
Implied ED of a side character???
Thank you Katie so so much for the ARC ❤️
I am so honored to have received this ARC. Katie is one of my auto-read authors, and their first book (From the Start) is one of my comfort reads. I have been feral from the teasers and snippets that have been posted and now… (angelic chorus)
Anyway, WHEN I TELL U IM OBSESSED WITH THEM
The beta readers did not lie. Ren and Audrey are HOT. They are HORNY. Katie you have done it again!!!!!!
I think Ren has surpassed Josh Henry in my book boyfriend roster, but JUST barely. I think it’s his pathetic neediness tbh. Tho I could be in a Audren sandwich and I would NOT be mad about it. She is Mommy™.
Also, I love that even tho Audrey is older than Ren, that hasn’t been brought up as an issue for their relationship. Audrey is concerned about her reputation and bringing Ren down, not the fact that she’s older.
And Piper, you silly little sausage. In single parent romances, the kiddo(s) don’t always get a lot of air time, but Piper is a full fledged delight and menace to society.
Tropes:
Reverse age gap
Single mom
Small New England town (highly recommend reading while on the East Coast for maximum vibes)
The horniest dry humping scene I have ever read
And, naturally, he 🏁 in his pants
“Good girl/boy”
“Fuck it”
MDD rep!!!!!! (Ft. Therapy and meds!!!!!!!!!!)
Autism rep!!!
Demi/pan/bisexual rep!!!!!
TW:
Depression things
Discussion of abortion
Teen pregnancy (past)
Body image things
Religious trauma
Missing pet (IT’S OKAY THEY FIND HER)
Implied ED of a side character???
Thank you Katie so so much for the ARC ❤️
August 9, 2025
"I can't find it in me to make anyone less than extraordinarily happy."
First of all, relatable, Ren. We love a pathological people pleaser. Now onto the review.
This was such a fun and easy read, which is exactly what I needed to start off the month of August (and the last few days of July). Ren and Audrey are absolutely perfect for each other, and I really enjoyed getting to read their story. Ren is the dream guy: hot, nerdy, and unproblematic. Audrey is a shy, anxious single mom who gave up on love a long time ago. Add in the fact that he's her favorite audio erotica creator, and you have a touching, hilarious, and engaging story.
The other characters were wonderful as well (shout out to Piper for being a little mastermind, trying to push two of her favorite adults into being happy together). I also love the Quinn family in general, and I genuinely cannot wait to read more of their stories in the future. The little plot twist with Kat at the ending had me yelling "I KNEW IT" at my kindle, and I can't stress enough how eager I am to read her story when it comes out.
Onto a few minor critiques. This book took me a little longer to get into than the first two books in this series. I feel like part of the reason is that there was a lot of telling rather than showing in the first couple chapters, which felt a little info dumpy. But, once I got past those, the rest of the story had me hooked. I would also have liked to see a little bit more tension and angst, but that's really just a personal preference. Other than that, I genuinely enjoyed this one!
All the nerdy Star Wars references made me even happier. I can't wait for the next one!
First of all, relatable, Ren. We love a pathological people pleaser. Now onto the review.
This was such a fun and easy read, which is exactly what I needed to start off the month of August (and the last few days of July). Ren and Audrey are absolutely perfect for each other, and I really enjoyed getting to read their story. Ren is the dream guy: hot, nerdy, and unproblematic. Audrey is a shy, anxious single mom who gave up on love a long time ago. Add in the fact that he's her favorite audio erotica creator, and you have a touching, hilarious, and engaging story.
The other characters were wonderful as well (shout out to Piper for being a little mastermind, trying to push two of her favorite adults into being happy together). I also love the Quinn family in general, and I genuinely cannot wait to read more of their stories in the future. The little plot twist with Kat at the ending had me yelling "I KNEW IT" at my kindle, and I can't stress enough how eager I am to read her story when it comes out.
Onto a few minor critiques. This book took me a little longer to get into than the first two books in this series. I feel like part of the reason is that there was a lot of telling rather than showing in the first couple chapters, which felt a little info dumpy. But, once I got past those, the rest of the story had me hooked. I would also have liked to see a little bit more tension and angst, but that's really just a personal preference. Other than that, I genuinely enjoyed this one!
All the nerdy Star Wars references made me even happier. I can't wait for the next one!
August 14, 2025
Ren and Audrey really are just a couple horny freaks (positive) falling in love! Even though these two aren't complete strangers, they have to get to know these new versions of each other. As the child of a teen mom my favorite part was how imperfect Audrey is. She's struggling but trying her best to make sure Piper is loved. It definitely healed my inner child. Ren comes into Piper's life much later than most single-mom books I've read, and it's that unique relationship that really won me over to Ren's side. Well, that and he's a giant geek!
God, Audrey's depression really called me tf out y'all. Katie Duggan writes mental illness so well and I appreciate it so much. Mentally ill people fall in love every day; we should get to read romance's about them too. Basically, everything about Audrey is important TO ME. Depressed, insecure, unable to accept love from others, and unafraid to seek her own pleasure. Mhm that's my girl!!
And yeah these have chemistry but they also love all the scary, imperfect things about each other. They navigate their physical relationship while also having important conversations about desire and consent. Ren wants her from the start and isn't willing to let her "bad girl reputation" or judgmental people in town get in the way.
[Insert surprised Pikachu meme] All the reveals at the end!?!?! And we have to wait until next year for the next Quiblings book!?!?!? I'm not okay.
God, Audrey's depression really called me tf out y'all. Katie Duggan writes mental illness so well and I appreciate it so much. Mentally ill people fall in love every day; we should get to read romance's about them too. Basically, everything about Audrey is important TO ME. Depressed, insecure, unable to accept love from others, and unafraid to seek her own pleasure. Mhm that's my girl!!
And yeah these have chemistry but they also love all the scary, imperfect things about each other. They navigate their physical relationship while also having important conversations about desire and consent. Ren wants her from the start and isn't willing to let her "bad girl reputation" or judgmental people in town get in the way.
[Insert surprised Pikachu meme] All the reveals at the end!?!?! And we have to wait until next year for the next Quiblings book!?!?!? I'm not okay.
September 6, 2025
I went into this book thinking it would be a fun, entertaining and especially spicy. It did not disappoint in any of that but also unbelievably deep and emotional. I loved every second of it!
4.5⭐️
"To those who feel like everyone eventually leaves, and who try to do everything to get them to stay: may we have the strength and courage to let go when the time is right, and to trust the right people want to stay. We’re the right person for the right people"
A great plot with MCs that felt real and raw. Their chemistry was obvious, all the spicy scenes were top notch but so were the scenes they had to deal with their feelings! I loved the representation of so many different sexual orientations, mental health struggles, depression, etc. and how the characters still came together over all of it!
And Piper was just the cutest character
"And somehow this woman, who I thought couldn’t be more beautiful, is even more exquisite while talking about how much she loves her kid."
This was my first Katie Duggan book and it was definitely easy to read as a standalone. Rens family does come up a lot and I honestly got a tiny bit confused who was who - will definitely be reading their books too now!
“How would you want to introduce me instead?” I ask, throat thick with an emotion I’m not ready to name. “I’d introduce you as mine,” he says simply. “Because they need to understand you’re here to stay and if they want me, they have to want you, too.”
4.5⭐️
"To those who feel like everyone eventually leaves, and who try to do everything to get them to stay: may we have the strength and courage to let go when the time is right, and to trust the right people want to stay. We’re the right person for the right people"
A great plot with MCs that felt real and raw. Their chemistry was obvious, all the spicy scenes were top notch but so were the scenes they had to deal with their feelings! I loved the representation of so many different sexual orientations, mental health struggles, depression, etc. and how the characters still came together over all of it!
And Piper was just the cutest character
"And somehow this woman, who I thought couldn’t be more beautiful, is even more exquisite while talking about how much she loves her kid."
This was my first Katie Duggan book and it was definitely easy to read as a standalone. Rens family does come up a lot and I honestly got a tiny bit confused who was who - will definitely be reading their books too now!
“How would you want to introduce me instead?” I ask, throat thick with an emotion I’m not ready to name. “I’d introduce you as mine,” he says simply. “Because they need to understand you’re here to stay and if they want me, they have to want you, too.”
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