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The Kiss Bet: A Novel
In this laugh-out-loud coming-of-age novel based on the wildly popular webcomic, Sara Lin has decided senior year is the time she’s going to make something special her first kiss.
This clean teen contemporary YA rom-com about first love and friendships is perfect for fans of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and Rainbow Rowell’s Pumpkinheads.
Based on the hit WEBTOON comic, The Kiss Bet follows Sara Lin on her quest to experience her first kiss. Told from both Sara and Patrick’s point of view, The Kiss Bet shows that life—and love—can be messy and complicated, but it sure can be fun.
It’s senior year and Sara Lin just turned eighteen. The last thing she needs is to worry about having her first kiss.
Sara understands that her first kiss is a rite of passage, one that she takes very seriously, even if everyone around her doesn’t. She wants it to be special—true love’s kiss—and wants to fall for someone she really cares about, not just get it over with.
But that’s about to change because her good pal Patrick just challenged her to a bet that will either lead to love, heartbreak, or embarrassment . . . or maybe all three.
As Sara explores her relationship options with three different boys, she realizes that life isn't a fairytale and romance can be confusing.
This clean teen contemporary YA rom-com about first love and friendships is perfect for fans of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and Rainbow Rowell’s Pumpkinheads.
Based on the hit WEBTOON comic, The Kiss Bet follows Sara Lin on her quest to experience her first kiss. Told from both Sara and Patrick’s point of view, The Kiss Bet shows that life—and love—can be messy and complicated, but it sure can be fun.
It’s senior year and Sara Lin just turned eighteen. The last thing she needs is to worry about having her first kiss.
Sara understands that her first kiss is a rite of passage, one that she takes very seriously, even if everyone around her doesn’t. She wants it to be special—true love’s kiss—and wants to fall for someone she really cares about, not just get it over with.
But that’s about to change because her good pal Patrick just challenged her to a bet that will either lead to love, heartbreak, or embarrassment . . . or maybe all three.
As Sara explores her relationship options with three different boys, she realizes that life isn't a fairytale and romance can be confusing.
- GenresYoung AdultContemporary
256 pages, Paperback
Published February 3, 2026
About the author
Farrah Penn
5 books128 followersFarrah Penn is an author and writer based in Los Angeles. Her published works include her debut, Twelve Steps to Normal, and Cancelled (March 2024). She graduated from the University of North Texas. You can find her on Instagram @FarrahPenn.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 10, 2026
When my kids were younger, I used to pre-screen books to determine whether they were suitable for them. We still discussed them either way, and we still chat about books to this day. My 15-year-old daughter just finished a thriller, and we talked about it the other day. I love that we share this.
I will definitely be sharing The Kiss Bet with her. In fact, I gave her a spoiler-free review on the drive to school this morning, and she was sold! What was it that I said? Sara Lin (FMC) will resonate with so many people. Not just because she hasn’t had her first kiss—we’ve all been there. But the pressures of school, the messiness of all her crushes, and the narrative that she created of what love is, are different in actuality. People, not just teens, often go through this. It’s a relatable story.
The story is light, funny, and sweet. I adored the characters and the ending. I see my daughter feeling the same, and I’m pretty sure she’ll recommend The Kiss Bet to her friends as well.
Thank you to Wattpad Books and Author Farrah Penn for the gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I will definitely be sharing The Kiss Bet with her. In fact, I gave her a spoiler-free review on the drive to school this morning, and she was sold! What was it that I said? Sara Lin (FMC) will resonate with so many people. Not just because she hasn’t had her first kiss—we’ve all been there. But the pressures of school, the messiness of all her crushes, and the narrative that she created of what love is, are different in actuality. People, not just teens, often go through this. It’s a relatable story.
The story is light, funny, and sweet. I adored the characters and the ending. I see my daughter feeling the same, and I’m pretty sure she’ll recommend The Kiss Bet to her friends as well.
Thank you to Wattpad Books and Author Farrah Penn for the gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 8, 2026
What in the stupidity did I just read...? 😵💫😵💫😵💫
It seems that Sarah has a crush on everyone. She also used to have a crush on the MMC, Patrick, her best friend. But he didn't feel the same, so he turned her down. Instead they became best friends.
In the meantime Sarah continues to crush on other guys, Oliver and Joe who are brothers. She focusses on her crush on Joe. But Joe is just the guy who is nice to everyone.
Patrick starts noticing her crushing on Joe, becomes jealous and suddenly he has feelings for Sarah. How toxic🤡.
In the meantime Joe has a crush on someone else.
Sarah’s friend seems to have a crush on Patrick.
And Oliver, the tutor who was supposed to be a crush, who wanted to help her out only for Patrick to barge in and steel the spotlight🤨.
This is Patrick:
And then he turns to the girl sitting next to him (who happens to have a crush on him) grabs her face and tries to kiss her.🤡
Oliver was the only person I liked in this whole mess of stupidity.
It seems that Sarah has a crush on everyone. She also used to have a crush on the MMC, Patrick, her best friend. But he didn't feel the same, so he turned her down. Instead they became best friends.
In the meantime Sarah continues to crush on other guys, Oliver and Joe who are brothers. She focusses on her crush on Joe. But Joe is just the guy who is nice to everyone.
Patrick starts noticing her crushing on Joe, becomes jealous and suddenly he has feelings for Sarah. How toxic🤡.
In the meantime Joe has a crush on someone else.
Sarah’s friend seems to have a crush on Patrick.
And Oliver, the tutor who was supposed to be a crush, who wanted to help her out only for Patrick to barge in and steel the spotlight🤨.
This is Patrick:
What does Sara need to save her first kiss for? It’s been a minute, but I’ve kissed a few girls. It’s no big deal. She builds things up in her head all the time, and this is one of them. I need to show her it’s all very casual.
And then he turns to the girl sitting next to him (who happens to have a crush on him) grabs her face and tries to kiss her.🤡
Oliver was the only person I liked in this whole mess of stupidity.
February 17, 2026
Thank you the publishers and NetGalley for this e-arc for review!
This was a cute teen romance story about an 18 year old girl named Sara Lin that hasn't had her first kiss yet. Her best friend that likes teasing her, bets money on her asking to kiss a random guy in the subway and from there goes her awkward cute start of her romance life. It's a cute YA read that I imagine I would have enjoyed plenty more back as a teenager.
There is drama, jealousy, love triangles, etc. and it's a fun read from start to finish.
This was a cute teen romance story about an 18 year old girl named Sara Lin that hasn't had her first kiss yet. Her best friend that likes teasing her, bets money on her asking to kiss a random guy in the subway and from there goes her awkward cute start of her romance life. It's a cute YA read that I imagine I would have enjoyed plenty more back as a teenager.
There is drama, jealousy, love triangles, etc. and it's a fun read from start to finish.
February 7, 2026
I was so excited when I saw this pop up on NetGalley (and thank you to NetGalley, Wattpad Books, and Farrah Penn for the arc), because I loved reading the WEBTOON of this.
In summary, Sara Lin turns 18 and still hasn't kissed a boy. Her best friend Patrick, who she used to have a crush on, bets her $50 that she won't kiss this random guy at the subway station. Of course, when she tries "Subwayboy" calls her weird because, yeah it's pretty weird to just get in a sleeping stranger's face and ask to kiss them. It's okay though, because at least Sara Lin won't have to see this guy ever again.
Except, she is very wrong about that. Turns out, Subwayboy is a new transfer student at her school....and also her new calculus tutor because she's failing.
Sara Lin spends the book making increasingly ridiculous bets with Patrick, who is struggling to come to terms with the fact that he might have feelings for her now, and Sara Lin is finding all kinds of boys who may be the candidate for her first kiss. She just has to find a way to make one of them fall in love with her first.
Like I said, I loved this as a WEBTOON. It had a lot of funny moments in it, as well as some cute moments in it. While a lot of the dialogue between main characters is brought over directly into this novel, I don't think it necessarily translates as well without the artwork and without some of the funny comments from side characters. Like in the WEBTOON there is a comment from a coach that's like "why are you racing? This is a warm up." or the school nurse responding when asked about an injury "I don't know! I dropped out of med school!"
The novel itself is still enjoyable if you want a very YA, lighthearted rom com (without much in the way of satisfying ending. I assume there will be a sequel, but I don't know) then this would still be a good read for you. Highly recommend checking out the WEBTOON though if you haven't.
In summary, Sara Lin turns 18 and still hasn't kissed a boy. Her best friend Patrick, who she used to have a crush on, bets her $50 that she won't kiss this random guy at the subway station. Of course, when she tries "Subwayboy" calls her weird because, yeah it's pretty weird to just get in a sleeping stranger's face and ask to kiss them. It's okay though, because at least Sara Lin won't have to see this guy ever again.
Except, she is very wrong about that. Turns out, Subwayboy is a new transfer student at her school....and also her new calculus tutor because she's failing.
Sara Lin spends the book making increasingly ridiculous bets with Patrick, who is struggling to come to terms with the fact that he might have feelings for her now, and Sara Lin is finding all kinds of boys who may be the candidate for her first kiss. She just has to find a way to make one of them fall in love with her first.
Like I said, I loved this as a WEBTOON. It had a lot of funny moments in it, as well as some cute moments in it. While a lot of the dialogue between main characters is brought over directly into this novel, I don't think it necessarily translates as well without the artwork and without some of the funny comments from side characters. Like in the WEBTOON there is a comment from a coach that's like "why are you racing? This is a warm up." or the school nurse responding when asked about an injury "I don't know! I dropped out of med school!"
The novel itself is still enjoyable if you want a very YA, lighthearted rom com (without much in the way of satisfying ending. I assume there will be a sequel, but I don't know) then this would still be a good read for you. Highly recommend checking out the WEBTOON though if you haven't.
November 11, 2025
Read: October 23rd - November 11th
Format: E-Book
Rating: 2.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I had issues reading this. I love webtoons and silly dorky high school romance shoujo manga, and this novel captured so much of what I see in both of those things. The novel also makes me very intrigued by the actual webnovel, as well as intrigued to read the other Farrah Penn arc I have. So lots of good things it makes me want!
But I just couldn't fully enjoy it. Shoujo-type stories (which have a lot of similar vibes to teen-aimed romance webtoons) have very exaggerated characters, and that works for me in artistic form a lot better than it does in written, because in written, I'm in the character's head. When I'm in their head, the exaggerated characteristics become far more obnoxious and difficult to deal with. I just didn't like Sarah or Patrick while in their heads. Sara came across as extremely bratty and superficial while Patrick was selfish and fickle. I don't think that's the fault of Farrah's writing, nor the fault of the webtoon. I really just think that its an outcome of the translation of mediums that didn't work for me.
All to say, I very much skimmed.
I think this would be easier to read for a younger audience (which isn't always necessary for YA reads). Or at least, it would have been for me. Younger me loved Junie B. Jones, and while I still hold that series in a special place, adult me sees how bratty the character while kid me was all for her.
So, do I think this book achieved what it aimed to? Yes. But do I think it was successful for me personally? Nope.
But definitely eying the webtoon version more and more... In part because I actually really liked Oliver 🤣
Format: E-Book
Rating: 2.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I had issues reading this. I love webtoons and silly dorky high school romance shoujo manga, and this novel captured so much of what I see in both of those things. The novel also makes me very intrigued by the actual webnovel, as well as intrigued to read the other Farrah Penn arc I have. So lots of good things it makes me want!
But I just couldn't fully enjoy it. Shoujo-type stories (which have a lot of similar vibes to teen-aimed romance webtoons) have very exaggerated characters, and that works for me in artistic form a lot better than it does in written, because in written, I'm in the character's head. When I'm in their head, the exaggerated characteristics become far more obnoxious and difficult to deal with. I just didn't like Sarah or Patrick while in their heads. Sara came across as extremely bratty and superficial while Patrick was selfish and fickle. I don't think that's the fault of Farrah's writing, nor the fault of the webtoon. I really just think that its an outcome of the translation of mediums that didn't work for me.
All to say, I very much skimmed.
I think this would be easier to read for a younger audience (which isn't always necessary for YA reads). Or at least, it would have been for me. Younger me loved Junie B. Jones, and while I still hold that series in a special place, adult me sees how bratty the character while kid me was all for her.
So, do I think this book achieved what it aimed to? Yes. But do I think it was successful for me personally? Nope.
But definitely eying the webtoon version more and more... In part because I actually really liked Oliver 🤣
October 19, 2025
Embarrassing situations and steering the rollercoaster of social life in high school mixes with fun characters for a delightful read.
This novel is strongly based on the same titled graphic novel by Ingrid Ochoa, but this form does add tons more depth. We still have Sara, a girl celebrating her eighteenth birthday with her two best friends, who faces a $50 bet of asking a random guy to kiss her. When she does, it doesn't head into fairytale goodness but leaves her face-planted on the concrete floor. Glad that no one outside of her two friends and the stranger witnessed her humiliating experience, she heads to school to deal with falling grades in math and the usual social drama. This ends her up with tutoring hours. Unfortunately, her tutor is the new guy, and he just so happens to be the stranger from the subway. Add that the best friend, who challenged her to the ludicrous bet, is suddenly discovering he's actually in love with her, and chaos is guaranteed.
For those who read the graphic novel, you're already aware of the direction this tale goes, but it definitely adds so much more to everything. The chapters dance between Sara and Patrick, her best friend's, perspectives. I found Patrick's chapters humorous but fitting in the beginning, since they start with only one sentence or so. When he starts 'waking up', they quickly get longer. Sara carries most of the tale, which fits since she's the main one facing everything. While I found her a bit ridiculous, at times, in the graphic novel, this normal novel form brings her across with more clarity, and her decisions are more understandable. She has lots to figure out, but the things she faces and how she handles them aren't as sporadic as they, sometimes, come across in the graphic novel form. In other words, she's easier to connect with and root for.
This is a very sweet, light-hearted romance read. There's absolutely no 'spice' and not even hints of it. These characters have enough on their plates as they deal with the daily problems and try to figure out the chaos of teen life and last year of high school. It's innocent, humorous, and lets the awkwardness of friendships, first loves, and getting ready to head into 'real' life shine in the most adorable way.
This novel is strongly based on the same titled graphic novel by Ingrid Ochoa, but this form does add tons more depth. We still have Sara, a girl celebrating her eighteenth birthday with her two best friends, who faces a $50 bet of asking a random guy to kiss her. When she does, it doesn't head into fairytale goodness but leaves her face-planted on the concrete floor. Glad that no one outside of her two friends and the stranger witnessed her humiliating experience, she heads to school to deal with falling grades in math and the usual social drama. This ends her up with tutoring hours. Unfortunately, her tutor is the new guy, and he just so happens to be the stranger from the subway. Add that the best friend, who challenged her to the ludicrous bet, is suddenly discovering he's actually in love with her, and chaos is guaranteed.
For those who read the graphic novel, you're already aware of the direction this tale goes, but it definitely adds so much more to everything. The chapters dance between Sara and Patrick, her best friend's, perspectives. I found Patrick's chapters humorous but fitting in the beginning, since they start with only one sentence or so. When he starts 'waking up', they quickly get longer. Sara carries most of the tale, which fits since she's the main one facing everything. While I found her a bit ridiculous, at times, in the graphic novel, this normal novel form brings her across with more clarity, and her decisions are more understandable. She has lots to figure out, but the things she faces and how she handles them aren't as sporadic as they, sometimes, come across in the graphic novel form. In other words, she's easier to connect with and root for.
This is a very sweet, light-hearted romance read. There's absolutely no 'spice' and not even hints of it. These characters have enough on their plates as they deal with the daily problems and try to figure out the chaos of teen life and last year of high school. It's innocent, humorous, and lets the awkwardness of friendships, first loves, and getting ready to head into 'real' life shine in the most adorable way.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The story centres on Winnie, a girl navigating her final years of school, friendship troubles, and that universal teenage feeling of being a little bit lost. Her best friend, Sam, is perfect in every way popular, attractive, and seemingly having life figured out.
The main premise kicks off when the high school 'bad boy' or resident heartbreaker, Matty, proposes a bet: he bets Winnie that she cannot get a boy to kiss her by the end of the semester. Matty offers to coach her through the complex world of dating and flirting. This sets up a fantastic friends-to-more-than-friends dynamic, as well as a great 'fake dating' or coaching trope, depending on how you see it.
The dynamic between Winnie and Matty is the real highlight. Their banter is witty and engaging. What starts as a slightly silly bet gradually reveals deeper layers to both characters. Matty isn't just a surface-level bad boy; he has real depth and vulnerabilities that slowly emerge, making him a very swoon-worthy love interest. Winnie is relatable in her insecurities, and watching her grow in confidence throughout the novel was incredibly satisfying.
The book captures the awkwardness and excitement of first love and teenage years brilliantly. It touches on themes of self-worth, genuine friendship, and the importance of communicating your feelings properly.
The Kiss Bet is a feel-good, easy read that is perfect for a cosy afternoon with a cup of tea. It is well written, the pace is quick, and the characters are endearing. While it follows some classic YA romance conventions, it does so with a lot of heart and charm.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a comforting, smile inducing contemporary romance with great chemistry between the leads. Farrah Penn has a lovely voice and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
The main premise kicks off when the high school 'bad boy' or resident heartbreaker, Matty, proposes a bet: he bets Winnie that she cannot get a boy to kiss her by the end of the semester. Matty offers to coach her through the complex world of dating and flirting. This sets up a fantastic friends-to-more-than-friends dynamic, as well as a great 'fake dating' or coaching trope, depending on how you see it.
The dynamic between Winnie and Matty is the real highlight. Their banter is witty and engaging. What starts as a slightly silly bet gradually reveals deeper layers to both characters. Matty isn't just a surface-level bad boy; he has real depth and vulnerabilities that slowly emerge, making him a very swoon-worthy love interest. Winnie is relatable in her insecurities, and watching her grow in confidence throughout the novel was incredibly satisfying.
The book captures the awkwardness and excitement of first love and teenage years brilliantly. It touches on themes of self-worth, genuine friendship, and the importance of communicating your feelings properly.
The Kiss Bet is a feel-good, easy read that is perfect for a cosy afternoon with a cup of tea. It is well written, the pace is quick, and the characters are endearing. While it follows some classic YA romance conventions, it does so with a lot of heart and charm.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a comforting, smile inducing contemporary romance with great chemistry between the leads. Farrah Penn has a lovely voice and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This really is a cute shoujo style rom-com about a high school girl trying to get her first kiss before graduation. Sara (the FMC) is a huge airhead which I kind of love (thank you sailor moon for that). Patrick is her guy best friend who is constantly trying to get under Sara's skin and get her out of her comfort zone. Our girl apparently needs some niggling to get out of her shy shell. There are definite love triangle vibes and lots of the miscommunication trope (which is very popular in shoujo style comics). The ending of this book is a cliff hanger which means I'm going to have to read the webtoon now.
I have never read a webtoon turned novel before and I really liked it. I have not read this specific webtoon so the story was new to me. It does come across as juvenile in some aspects of the character building however it fits because they are high schoolers (aka juveniles). This is a very YA appropriate novel. My only problem was I was confused by the setting. In webtoons you physically see where the story is taking place ie. what city and country. Half of the characters have Asian sounding names and half have American sounding names, the setting could be in the western part of the world then? They were in uniforms which is not American culture but could be British culture? They do karaoke and hotpot alot after school, most likely not America? But then Sara's father is obsessed with American rock and so is her neighbor....The context clues did not help me decide where they live. I couldn't fully picture the story because I don't know where we are in the world. Knowing the setting is important because it colors the culture of the story. We don't need a city and real life locations but knowing at least the country would be helpful.
This really is a cute shoujo style rom-com about a high school girl trying to get her first kiss before graduation. Sara (the FMC) is a huge airhead which I kind of love (thank you sailor moon for that). Patrick is her guy best friend who is constantly trying to get under Sara's skin and get her out of her comfort zone. Our girl apparently needs some niggling to get out of her shy shell. There are definite love triangle vibes and lots of the miscommunication trope (which is very popular in shoujo style comics). The ending of this book is a cliff hanger which means I'm going to have to read the webtoon now.
I have never read a webtoon turned novel before and I really liked it. I have not read this specific webtoon so the story was new to me. It does come across as juvenile in some aspects of the character building however it fits because they are high schoolers (aka juveniles). This is a very YA appropriate novel. My only problem was I was confused by the setting. In webtoons you physically see where the story is taking place ie. what city and country. Half of the characters have Asian sounding names and half have American sounding names, the setting could be in the western part of the world then? They were in uniforms which is not American culture but could be British culture? They do karaoke and hotpot alot after school, most likely not America? But then Sara's father is obsessed with American rock and so is her neighbor....The context clues did not help me decide where they live. I couldn't fully picture the story because I don't know where we are in the world. Knowing the setting is important because it colors the culture of the story. We don't need a city and real life locations but knowing at least the country would be helpful.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I saw this on NetGalley and unironically screamed, having met Ingrid and read the comic on webtoon (but not gotten all the way) this thrilled me. It's a quick and easy read (like a couple of hours long).
This book is teenage awkwardness and embarassment encapsulated in a ton of bets that we know are a terrible idea but lighten what could be cringe worthy - there are a few cringe worthy moments but what's being a teen if not slightly cringe worthy?
That said I wasn't in love with this in the way I expected to be, having read the first comic not so long ago a large part of this book was a refresher BUT I love love love Oliver - seriously he is my fave. Patrick, loathe entirely - that said I want him to be redeemed so I NEED a second book.
I kind of wished there were little diagrams / maps at the start of the book just to really add context but that's just me! This is a charming adorable little story but won't suit everyone as it does feel quite young in parts (which is no one's fault just the way the story is).
One thing is I need Oliver to have a POV - Patrick's was a good inclusion but I found being inside his brain irritating. I need to hear Oliver's thoughts to become fully fully invested just because Partick feels a bit thick. Younger me would've loved this and while I did enjoy it I might be a bit old? But it was a good easy read overall!!
And the cliffhanger? AGHHHHHHHH I NEED AN OLIVER KISS DON'T DO THIS TO ME!!!
I saw this on NetGalley and unironically screamed, having met Ingrid and read the comic on webtoon (but not gotten all the way) this thrilled me. It's a quick and easy read (like a couple of hours long).
This book is teenage awkwardness and embarassment encapsulated in a ton of bets that we know are a terrible idea but lighten what could be cringe worthy - there are a few cringe worthy moments but what's being a teen if not slightly cringe worthy?
That said I wasn't in love with this in the way I expected to be, having read the first comic not so long ago a large part of this book was a refresher BUT I love love love Oliver - seriously he is my fave. Patrick, loathe entirely - that said I want him to be redeemed so I NEED a second book.
I kind of wished there were little diagrams / maps at the start of the book just to really add context but that's just me! This is a charming adorable little story but won't suit everyone as it does feel quite young in parts (which is no one's fault just the way the story is).
One thing is I need Oliver to have a POV - Patrick's was a good inclusion but I found being inside his brain irritating. I need to hear Oliver's thoughts to become fully fully invested just because Partick feels a bit thick. Younger me would've loved this and while I did enjoy it I might be a bit old? But it was a good easy read overall!!
And the cliffhanger? AGHHHHHHHH I NEED AN OLIVER KISS DON'T DO THIS TO ME!!!
June 20, 2026
As much as I know this a wattpad book, it still disappointed me cause I was hoping it didn’t feel like a 16 year old just wrote it. Sara completely forgets and expects Patrick to forgive her when she forgets to do his homework (bet lost) and still wants to give him pointers about what to write in his essay, texts him a half ass apology, and doesn’t even remember him until the next two chapters when it’s Patrick’s pov. Wow we don’t really need to care about our friend after we have a crush now don’t we?
Then Patrick not even acknowledging Tammy’s love letters when he realised that she’s the one that said “blue eyes”. He didn’t even give her a clear answer, just oh actually I have feelings for Sara (when he only likes her when she’s interested in Joe and stops giving him attention). AND TAMMY JUST LETS HIM???? She just encourages him to go? She didn’t even get a pov! Just oh you got this Patrick, confess to Sara when you said you and her are just friends! Knn.
Bro Oliver is like a half-assed happening character. If he ended up with sara i would understand, cause they got this push and pull dynamic, and technically this book started cause of the bet to kiss him. And he hinted at sara for him to be her first kiss TWICE.
Overall the ending was a total bomb.
Then Patrick not even acknowledging Tammy’s love letters when he realised that she’s the one that said “blue eyes”. He didn’t even give her a clear answer, just oh actually I have feelings for Sara (when he only likes her when she’s interested in Joe and stops giving him attention). AND TAMMY JUST LETS HIM???? She just encourages him to go? She didn’t even get a pov! Just oh you got this Patrick, confess to Sara when you said you and her are just friends! Knn.
Bro Oliver is like a half-assed happening character. If he ended up with sara i would understand, cause they got this push and pull dynamic, and technically this book started cause of the bet to kiss him. And he hinted at sara for him to be her first kiss TWICE.
Overall the ending was a total bomb.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2025
Thanks NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group | Wattpad Books for the digital ARC for review!
I was so excited to see this uploaded to NetGalley. I had no idea they were going to do a full novel version of the graphic. I usually enjoy full novel adaptations, but usually not as much as the original graphic, but in this case I actually enjoyed this WAY more.
I gave volume 1 of the original graphic 3 stars and this one is easily a 4.5. I think this story benefitted in having more of the characters inner thoughts to be able to connect to them more. I think the story actually fits better as a novel. Although, I did miss seeing the cute art, I feel like this story was overall better.
I really enjoy the way the author writes teens. It really feels like you are listening to real teens talk about their lives without being cringey or too adult-like.
I’m really glad that I decided to read this one. I would say if you’ve read the graphics PICK THIS UP. Also, if you haven’t read the graphics, I feel like you would still very much enjoy this.
I was so excited to see this uploaded to NetGalley. I had no idea they were going to do a full novel version of the graphic. I usually enjoy full novel adaptations, but usually not as much as the original graphic, but in this case I actually enjoyed this WAY more.
I gave volume 1 of the original graphic 3 stars and this one is easily a 4.5. I think this story benefitted in having more of the characters inner thoughts to be able to connect to them more. I think the story actually fits better as a novel. Although, I did miss seeing the cute art, I feel like this story was overall better.
I really enjoy the way the author writes teens. It really feels like you are listening to real teens talk about their lives without being cringey or too adult-like.
I’m really glad that I decided to read this one. I would say if you’ve read the graphics PICK THIS UP. Also, if you haven’t read the graphics, I feel like you would still very much enjoy this.
November 19, 2025
Thank you to Wattpad Books and NetGalley for the free review copy of this book! All opinions are completely my own.
I've read The Kiss Bet on WEBTOON, so it was really fun to read this novel based on the comic. It actually follows the comic pretty closely and had a very similar feel.
The book was a quick and easy read that I overall enjoyed. There's a lot of high school drama so it might not be the right fit for readers looking for something more mature, but I think teens and fans of the web comic will enjoy it. At times Sara, the FMC, felt annoyingly impulsive and irresponsible, but I also couldn't help but root for her. Most of the characters felt similar to their comic versions, though I think I liked Patrick more in this version, maybe because I was able to understand his viewpoint better.
This novel covers season one of the comic, so it does end on a cliffhanger. Hopefully there will be more novels to continue the story!
I've read The Kiss Bet on WEBTOON, so it was really fun to read this novel based on the comic. It actually follows the comic pretty closely and had a very similar feel.
The book was a quick and easy read that I overall enjoyed. There's a lot of high school drama so it might not be the right fit for readers looking for something more mature, but I think teens and fans of the web comic will enjoy it. At times Sara, the FMC, felt annoyingly impulsive and irresponsible, but I also couldn't help but root for her. Most of the characters felt similar to their comic versions, though I think I liked Patrick more in this version, maybe because I was able to understand his viewpoint better.
This novel covers season one of the comic, so it does end on a cliffhanger. Hopefully there will be more novels to continue the story!
February 11, 2026
- “I don’t hear anything else because I’m too focused on the way Oliver leans over his work, hair swooping over his forehead as he scrawls through the steps. We’ve never been this physically close. Not even in tutoring. His thick eyebrows furrow together when he’s in the middle of solving, the tension dissolving in his forehead when things click in place.” - Sara (swoon😭❤️)
- “Hey, you did the same thing to me, remember? I had to re-create the moment. Consider it payback.” - Oliver (if I don’t see the real re-creation I’m gonna riot)
- “Oliver gives me sidelong stare that’s equally unperturbed and cool. Is it weird that I miss his laugh? Because I do.” - Sara
- I love the novel version of this story so so much, but if I don’t get the rest I’m going to be depressed forever.
- Ending it on the Patrick kiss is so cruel😭😭😭😭😭😭
- I need more Subwayboy😭😭😭😭
- “Hey, you did the same thing to me, remember? I had to re-create the moment. Consider it payback.” - Oliver (if I don’t see the real re-creation I’m gonna riot)
- “Oliver gives me sidelong stare that’s equally unperturbed and cool. Is it weird that I miss his laugh? Because I do.” - Sara
- I love the novel version of this story so so much, but if I don’t get the rest I’m going to be depressed forever.
- Ending it on the Patrick kiss is so cruel😭😭😭😭😭😭
- I need more Subwayboy😭😭😭😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2025
4.5 stars
The Kiss Bet: A Novel by Farrah Penn is a lighthearted YA romance that mixes humour, awkward first love, and the ups and downs of growing up.
It follows Sara Lin, a senior who’s never been kissed, as a bet with her best friend pushes her into unexpected situations with new crushes, complicated friendships, and the pressure of senior year.
The story is breezy and relatable, with plenty of funny, heartfelt moments and characters you can root for. The dual POV helped understand both Sara and Patrick more fully as characters.
Overall, it’s a charming, feel‑good read that captures the excitement and messiness of teenage romance while keeping the tone fun and uplifting.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Kiss Bet: A Novel by Farrah Penn is a lighthearted YA romance that mixes humour, awkward first love, and the ups and downs of growing up.
It follows Sara Lin, a senior who’s never been kissed, as a bet with her best friend pushes her into unexpected situations with new crushes, complicated friendships, and the pressure of senior year.
The story is breezy and relatable, with plenty of funny, heartfelt moments and characters you can root for. The dual POV helped understand both Sara and Patrick more fully as characters.
Overall, it’s a charming, feel‑good read that captures the excitement and messiness of teenage romance while keeping the tone fun and uplifting.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC!
I liked this book, and it was a quick and easy read, but I didn't find myself as into it as I thought. There was a lot of secondhand embarrassment moments, and I feel like I didn't really connect with the characters. I also don't like Sara and Patrick together (or Patrick at all), just personal preference, so that further icked me out a bit. I still think I'll read the second book, if only because this one ended so so abruptly on a cliffhanger, but I probably wouldn't recommend.
I liked this book, and it was a quick and easy read, but I didn't find myself as into it as I thought. There was a lot of secondhand embarrassment moments, and I feel like I didn't really connect with the characters. I also don't like Sara and Patrick together (or Patrick at all), just personal preference, so that further icked me out a bit. I still think I'll read the second book, if only because this one ended so so abruptly on a cliffhanger, but I probably wouldn't recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've read most of The Kiss Bet on Webtoon so it was really cool reading this in a book format ☺️
I'd rate this book 4 stars! It was a fun read, written well with some great vocab, imo 🤭 It gave a better insight into the characters' minds, and I loved reading about Oliver slowly opening up 🥰 It even made me laugh a couple of times 😆
The only things that I wasn't a huge fan of were a few grammatical errors I came across, and some of the scenes were a bit too cringey or middle grade for my taste.
Otherwise, I recommend you read this book, especially if you've read the Webtoon! Be warned though, it does end on a cliffhanger 😉
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read the eARC!
I'd rate this book 4 stars! It was a fun read, written well with some great vocab, imo 🤭 It gave a better insight into the characters' minds, and I loved reading about Oliver slowly opening up 🥰 It even made me laugh a couple of times 😆
The only things that I wasn't a huge fan of were a few grammatical errors I came across, and some of the scenes were a bit too cringey or middle grade for my taste.
Otherwise, I recommend you read this book, especially if you've read the Webtoon! Be warned though, it does end on a cliffhanger 😉
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read the eARC!
February 5, 2026
I received an ARC of this book thanks to the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the book right up to the last page. Then the last page made me so frustrated. There is no resolution. Maybe there will be a sequel but as of writing this I haven’t seen anything about it. I strongly suspect that there will not be a sequel and that the author was deliberate in the way the book was ended based upon the last few sentences. I don’t know. I’m disappointed because this definitely was an easy 4 star pushing to 5 star that dropped to a 3 star so quickly.
I loved the book right up to the last page. Then the last page made me so frustrated. There is no resolution. Maybe there will be a sequel but as of writing this I haven’t seen anything about it. I strongly suspect that there will not be a sequel and that the author was deliberate in the way the book was ended based upon the last few sentences. I don’t know. I’m disappointed because this definitely was an easy 4 star pushing to 5 star that dropped to a 3 star so quickly.
February 26, 2026
This is another one where I read the graphic novel first. The story follows a girl who has never kissed anyone before, and her best friend dares her to kiss a random person.
I really enjoy reading these stories in novel format because we get more insight into the characters’ thoughts and emotions, instead of just seeing everything play out on the page. That said, I do like both the novel and graphic novel versions for different reasons.
This is a great book for teenagers navigating that awkward stage of life.
I really enjoy reading these stories in novel format because we get more insight into the characters’ thoughts and emotions, instead of just seeing everything play out on the page. That said, I do like both the novel and graphic novel versions for different reasons.
This is a great book for teenagers navigating that awkward stage of life.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was cute! It's a very fun, classic YA read. It's also super clean. Sara Lin wants to start romantisizing her life would really, really like her first kiss. Her long-time friend Patrick likes to encourage her by making bets, so he makes a "kiss bet" to try to get her to take the plunge on her first kiss. You quickly start to see three major contenders for this, but I won't spoil if she gets her big smooch or not.
February 27, 2026
Couldn't put it down! Teen angst at its finest!
It was so fun to go back in high school and think about different clubs. I wish I had a friend group like Sara: she had so much support. I definitely feel for her, it is so hard to get out of your shell in school.
I liked that she was able to lean on her dad as much as she did. That relationship was so pure.
It was so fun to go back in high school and think about different clubs. I wish I had a friend group like Sara: she had so much support. I definitely feel for her, it is so hard to get out of your shell in school.
I liked that she was able to lean on her dad as much as she did. That relationship was so pure.
June 4, 2026
I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for a free ALC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this expecting a bit of fluff and that is exactly what I received. There's nothing here that's going to be earth breaking or genre bending. You look at the cover and you know what you are signing in for. It will deliver in a fairly predictable new adult romance and nothing more. I can't fault it for filling a niche, but I can't praise it either for doing nothing new.
I went into this expecting a bit of fluff and that is exactly what I received. There's nothing here that's going to be earth breaking or genre bending. You look at the cover and you know what you are signing in for. It will deliver in a fairly predictable new adult romance and nothing more. I can't fault it for filling a niche, but I can't praise it either for doing nothing new.
Did Not Finish
March 30, 2026I’m disappointed that the author added more unnecessary swear words and more than are in the actual WEBTOON.
March 31, 2026
4.25⭐️
December 17, 2025
I read the the Webtoon version of this story a few years ago and remember loving it, the novelized version does not disappoint! This was such a quick and easy read, I read it within a day. It is just as addicting and fun as the Webtoon version!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What happens when you haven't had your first kiss and you make a kiss bet with your guy best friend? It doesn't turn out the way the reader suspects. The beginning drew me in, but the middle dragged on too long. The ending was super abrupt, and I was left with more questions than answers.
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