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The Naysayers: A Novel
From bestselling authors Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke comes a witty, sharp-edged tale of corporate greed, unexpected romance, and the quiet power of our shared humanity.
At Naysay Inc., rising star Megan’s job is to whisper negative thoughts straight into the minds of clients in the Real World. It’s all in a day’s dirty work in Naysayland, the parallel reality where your negativity is manufactured and self-doubt is a commodity.
But when she is assigned to sabotage a romance between lifestyle influencer Lily and author Jasper, Megan’s carefully constructed reality begins to unravel. The project teams her with Ben, the smug but cute whisperer in the next cubicle. As they work to tear down Lily and Jasper’s situationship, Megan and Ben are catching feelings for each other. And it’s making them lose their negative edge.
As their empathy grows, and they start rooting for the relationship they’re tasked with destroying, dreaded HR is sniffing around. Now they’re facing a keep crushing dreams for a paycheck, or risk everything for their own fairy tale. Who knew professional pessimists could be such hopeless romantics?
At Naysay Inc., rising star Megan’s job is to whisper negative thoughts straight into the minds of clients in the Real World. It’s all in a day’s dirty work in Naysayland, the parallel reality where your negativity is manufactured and self-doubt is a commodity.
But when she is assigned to sabotage a romance between lifestyle influencer Lily and author Jasper, Megan’s carefully constructed reality begins to unravel. The project teams her with Ben, the smug but cute whisperer in the next cubicle. As they work to tear down Lily and Jasper’s situationship, Megan and Ben are catching feelings for each other. And it’s making them lose their negative edge.
As their empathy grows, and they start rooting for the relationship they’re tasked with destroying, dreaded HR is sniffing around. Now they’re facing a keep crushing dreams for a paycheck, or risk everything for their own fairy tale. Who knew professional pessimists could be such hopeless romantics?
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
208 people are currently reading
3401 people want to read
About the author
Liz Fenton
11 books1,684 followersLiz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have been best friends for over thirty years and survived high school and college together. They’ve co-authored nine novels, including the Amazon Charts bestseller, The Good Widow.
In addition to writing books, they created a podcast, We Fight So You Don’t Have to: Lessons from a thirty-year friendship.
They both reside in San Diego, California with their families and several rescue dogs.Connect with Liz and Lisa on Instagram at @lisaandliz or at www.lizandlisa.com.
Connect with Liz and Lisa on social media: www.lizandlisa.com
Instagram: @lisaandliz
FB: Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke
Substack: lizandlisa
In addition to writing books, they created a podcast, We Fight So You Don’t Have to: Lessons from a thirty-year friendship.
They both reside in San Diego, California with their families and several rescue dogs.Connect with Liz and Lisa on Instagram at @lisaandliz or at www.lizandlisa.com.
Connect with Liz and Lisa on social media: www.lizandlisa.com
Instagram: @lisaandliz
FB: Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke
Substack: lizandlisa
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'm a bit disappointed.
I loved the premise, I think it was unique, funny and full of potential. I also loved the narrator in the audiobook version. She was just perfect and added rythm, humour and some depth to the characters.
But I think the execution of the plot was underwhelming. It would have worked better for me if it has leaned more on the corporate/ conspiracy side and less on the romance, which was not enough in itself to keep my interest.
Overall I think this book is entertaining enough, but it could have been much more.
Thank you Brilliance Publishing for this ARC.
I loved the premise, I think it was unique, funny and full of potential. I also loved the narrator in the audiobook version. She was just perfect and added rythm, humour and some depth to the characters.
But I think the execution of the plot was underwhelming. It would have worked better for me if it has leaned more on the corporate/ conspiracy side and less on the romance, which was not enough in itself to keep my interest.
Overall I think this book is entertaining enough, but it could have been much more.
Thank you Brilliance Publishing for this ARC.
October 10, 2025
Given the times we're in, Liz and Lisa have managed to extract deeper meaning in this fun, fresh read. Imagine the voices in your head are real! Welcome to Naysay Inc., the firm that feeds on vulnerability and insecurities. And when two employees find themselves embroiled in a mission to break apart their clients' relationship--and feelings for each other---the voices in their head begin to shift. Now what?
The Naysayers captures the dark side of our brains (and corporate culture) through an imaginary world with tons of heart. Don't let satire fool you. There are big lessons to be learned here, and Liz and Lisa deliver. The perfect antidote to the heaviness of today's world.
The Naysayers captures the dark side of our brains (and corporate culture) through an imaginary world with tons of heart. Don't let satire fool you. There are big lessons to be learned here, and Liz and Lisa deliver. The perfect antidote to the heaviness of today's world.
January 28, 2026
I've always enjoyed Liz and Lisa's books and their surreal stories are my favorites. So I'm glad they went that route again with The Naysayers: A Novel. If you ever wondered about the voice in your head telling you negative things and making you doubt yourself, Liz and Lisa have created a world where the inhabitants are the reason for that voice.
Originally posted at Chick Lit Central, along with a giveaway (ending February 2nd).
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TW: Parent being forcibly separated from their child. Stalking by a corporation. Emotional abuse. Cyberbullying.
I love books (and movies) where a different but somehow parallel world is created. Naysayland was very interesting and well thought out. A lot of this novel had a Good Place vibe, but it also made me think of Severance, based on what people have told me about that show. It was even giving Office Space and Inside Out at times.
This story contains an important message that people need to hear. I really liked that message. The concept is thought-provoking and hits close to home at times. I liked all the banter, especially between Megan and Ben. I would have liked more chapters from Ben's perspective, but it was nice to also get Lily's perspective. There were parts of the story that were definitely anxiety-provoking, especially when the stakes were raised.
I wouldn't mind being a naysayer for people who are really full of themselves. (I am sure we all know at least one person like that.) However, I'm all for trying to uplift people's spirits and build their confidence, so I wouldn't last long in Naysayland for that reason alone.
Great work, Liz and Lisa! (I would get kicked out, just for saying this...)
(Trigger warnings below.)
Movie casting suggestions:
Megan: Sami Gayle
Ben: Pierson Fode
Lily: Grace Van Dien
Jasper: Nick Robinson
Jacqueline: Carla Gugino
Genevieve: Sally Field
Karla: Jessica Paré
Ben: Pierson Fode
Lily: Grace Van Dien
Jasper: Nick Robinson
Jacqueline: Carla Gugino
Genevieve: Sally Field
Karla: Jessica Paré
Originally posted at Chick Lit Central, along with a giveaway (ending February 2nd).
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TW: Parent being forcibly separated from their child. Stalking by a corporation. Emotional abuse. Cyberbullying.
October 10, 2025
This is honestly one of my favorite books of the year and ranks up with one of my favorite books. This story is one that held my attention, made me smile, laugh and think all at once…..
I am a true believer in books finding their reader at the perfect time. And a book about shutting out the negativity, embracing feeling of own self worth, and reaching for that external love hit me at the perfect moment.
What if- the voices inside our head were actual outside forces placed here to make sure that we didn’t get too cocky or happy? What if those thoughts that threatened to sabotage our loves and desires were hired help placed strategically to make you fail for their own gain. What if by just loving yourself or allowing yourself to see the good in others silenced those thoughts and made you embrace the quirks?
THE NAYSAYERS is a cute magical realism that blends chick wit, magical realism, and satire all in one. This book made me laugh out loud numerous times, made me smile. It made me relate to all the characters and just had me enjoying the story. I loved its message. I loved how the authors put in some real life pessimism to show readers how even the most talented have self doubt.
This book and these characters will stay with me. I think authors Liz and Lisa are two of the most talented female authors out there. They can write women’s fiction, magical realism or thrillers.
They have a way of inviting their readers in and just making the reading of their novels an immersive experience.
I thank them for writing this book. For reminding me (and other readers) to turn off the negativity, surround yourself with those who are positive voices and to just believe in yourself
It is like a grown up INSIDE OUT mixed with the humor of LEGALLY BLONDE.
I think the cover is perfect for this book with the juxtaposition of the sunshine yellow and frowns This is the perfect antidote to the winter time blues - so great release date.
I loved this novel can I give it more than 5 stars?!?!?
I am a true believer in books finding their reader at the perfect time. And a book about shutting out the negativity, embracing feeling of own self worth, and reaching for that external love hit me at the perfect moment.
What if- the voices inside our head were actual outside forces placed here to make sure that we didn’t get too cocky or happy? What if those thoughts that threatened to sabotage our loves and desires were hired help placed strategically to make you fail for their own gain. What if by just loving yourself or allowing yourself to see the good in others silenced those thoughts and made you embrace the quirks?
THE NAYSAYERS is a cute magical realism that blends chick wit, magical realism, and satire all in one. This book made me laugh out loud numerous times, made me smile. It made me relate to all the characters and just had me enjoying the story. I loved its message. I loved how the authors put in some real life pessimism to show readers how even the most talented have self doubt.
This book and these characters will stay with me. I think authors Liz and Lisa are two of the most talented female authors out there. They can write women’s fiction, magical realism or thrillers.
They have a way of inviting their readers in and just making the reading of their novels an immersive experience.
I thank them for writing this book. For reminding me (and other readers) to turn off the negativity, surround yourself with those who are positive voices and to just believe in yourself
It is like a grown up INSIDE OUT mixed with the humor of LEGALLY BLONDE.
I think the cover is perfect for this book with the juxtaposition of the sunshine yellow and frowns This is the perfect antidote to the winter time blues - so great release date.
I loved this novel can I give it more than 5 stars?!?!?
September 29, 2025
Writing The Naysayers was like getting hours and hours of free therapy. While the world felt like it was ending every single day, we were able take our fear, frustration, and total disbelief over what we were seeing in our news feeds and on social media and write a satirical novel about it. We also delved into topics that matter a lot to us: empathy, social comparison and self-esteem.
We created two words: The Real World (based on ours) and Naysayland (an alternate realm where the “Naysayers” are completely baffled by us) then smashed them together and mixed in a wild cast of characters—and a love story! The result? A humorous and heartfelt story about where that voice in your head might really come from, and what happens when you finally meet the naysayer behind it.
We hope you enjoy The Naysayers!
We created two words: The Real World (based on ours) and Naysayland (an alternate realm where the “Naysayers” are completely baffled by us) then smashed them together and mixed in a wild cast of characters—and a love story! The result? A humorous and heartfelt story about where that voice in your head might really come from, and what happens when you finally meet the naysayer behind it.
We hope you enjoy The Naysayers!
December 21, 2025
I’ve been reading (and loving) Liz and Lisa’s books for years now, so of course I jumped at the chance to read their January release, THE NAYSAYERS when they graciously offered to send me a review copy. Check out this quick synopsis:
“𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘓𝘪𝘻 𝘍𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘢 𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘺, 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘱-𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥, 𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘦𝘵 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺.”
I must admit that I wasn’t quite sure about this one at first. Magical realism isn’t always my cup of tea, and it generally goes either way for me. However, I was immediately hooked by the intriguing premise. Get this: A strange parallel reality where one’s job is to whisper negative thoughts, reflections, and opinions straight into their client’s minds. Sounds kinda trippy, right? I honestly couldn’t stop reading!
Not only is the general concept great, so are the cast of characters. They all showed so much depth, value, and growth. I was easily immersed in the lives of the two couples, Megan & Ben and Lily & Jasper. Their interactions and experiences were extremely entertaining, humorous, and refreshing.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Unique storylines
- Influencer lifestyle
- Unexpected romance
- Witty banter
- Magical realism
- Redeeming characters
- Family drama and dynamics
- Character-driven novels
- Corporate culture
- Competition and rivalry
- Sabotage and destruction
Overall, I was very impressed with the writing duo’s forthcoming release. I love it when authors try something new, and the wonderfully quirky storyline really sealed the deal for me. I’m a fan! THE NAYSAYERS releases on January 13th! Be sure to grab a copy! 4/5 stars!
“𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘓𝘪𝘻 𝘍𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘢 𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘺, 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘱-𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥, 𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘦𝘵 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺.”
I must admit that I wasn’t quite sure about this one at first. Magical realism isn’t always my cup of tea, and it generally goes either way for me. However, I was immediately hooked by the intriguing premise. Get this: A strange parallel reality where one’s job is to whisper negative thoughts, reflections, and opinions straight into their client’s minds. Sounds kinda trippy, right? I honestly couldn’t stop reading!
Not only is the general concept great, so are the cast of characters. They all showed so much depth, value, and growth. I was easily immersed in the lives of the two couples, Megan & Ben and Lily & Jasper. Their interactions and experiences were extremely entertaining, humorous, and refreshing.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Unique storylines
- Influencer lifestyle
- Unexpected romance
- Witty banter
- Magical realism
- Redeeming characters
- Family drama and dynamics
- Character-driven novels
- Corporate culture
- Competition and rivalry
- Sabotage and destruction
Overall, I was very impressed with the writing duo’s forthcoming release. I love it when authors try something new, and the wonderfully quirky storyline really sealed the deal for me. I’m a fan! THE NAYSAYERS releases on January 13th! Be sure to grab a copy! 4/5 stars!
October 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Liz Fenton, Lisa Steinke, and Little A for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book feels almost like a timewarp. The writing feels very much like a book from the 2000s but with 2025 references to COVID, AI, and influencers getting famous on tiktok. The style is almost at odds with its content.
I thought the premise was so interesting. A company that hires people to whisper the negative thoughts into people’s heads so that they’re inclined to spend money to fix their insecurity. On its face, that’s so compelling. And I think the light, jovial tone, really adds to that. Unfortunately the execution was a bit lacking for me. I was always wondering where the guardrails were.
Our main character, Megan, is a nepo baby from an alternate world called Naysayerland, where she’s hired by Naysayer Inc to be the lead whisperer of the Social Media department. Megan is immediately presented as confident, detached, and competent. She doesn’t want friendships or relationships, but inconsistently values her surface level relationship with her family. She met her family’s expectations but still longs to be accepted by them, which is frowned upon.
I think what I struggle to understand is… well how human are the people of Naysayerland? Because they’re egotistical and lack empathy, but also want appreciation and recognition, which if you weren’t ’human’, you probably wouldn’t need. And if you weren’t human, you probably also wouldn’t know how to do the job of whispering very well. And I think that's all sort of half touched on but it does feel like a really obvious conclusion to that train of thought and isn't exactly interesting to read.
Also what do people do if they don't work for Naysayer Inc? Work at a Karen Bar??
So the concept had legs but the execution was a bit messy.
This book feels almost like a timewarp. The writing feels very much like a book from the 2000s but with 2025 references to COVID, AI, and influencers getting famous on tiktok. The style is almost at odds with its content.
I thought the premise was so interesting. A company that hires people to whisper the negative thoughts into people’s heads so that they’re inclined to spend money to fix their insecurity. On its face, that’s so compelling. And I think the light, jovial tone, really adds to that. Unfortunately the execution was a bit lacking for me. I was always wondering where the guardrails were.
Our main character, Megan, is a nepo baby from an alternate world called Naysayerland, where she’s hired by Naysayer Inc to be the lead whisperer of the Social Media department. Megan is immediately presented as confident, detached, and competent. She doesn’t want friendships or relationships, but inconsistently values her surface level relationship with her family. She met her family’s expectations but still longs to be accepted by them, which is frowned upon.
I think what I struggle to understand is… well how human are the people of Naysayerland? Because they’re egotistical and lack empathy, but also want appreciation and recognition, which if you weren’t ’human’, you probably wouldn’t need. And if you weren’t human, you probably also wouldn’t know how to do the job of whispering very well. And I think that's all sort of half touched on but it does feel like a really obvious conclusion to that train of thought and isn't exactly interesting to read.
Also what do people do if they don't work for Naysayer Inc? Work at a Karen Bar??
So the concept had legs but the execution was a bit messy.
October 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Little A for providing this book, with my honest review below.
The Naysayers is testament to an intriguing concept delivering so totally that you’ll find any excuse to steal time away to keep reading. This book hits the right chord given where the world is now both with social media and a shared feeling of lethargy and stifled hope in the world. That’s not to say it’s a downer, on the contrary the lessons on its pages may just help you, as you work through the very fun plot.
Megan works as a lead whisperer for Naysay Inc., a role she was literally raised for given her legacy and her mother at the helm, and of course her ability to bring people in our world (the parallel universe Naysayland is leaps and bounds ahead of) to a place of continuous vulnerability and lack of hope. She has a rivalry with Ben, who’s been leading the pack of whisperers, so things get very interesting when one of her clients and one of his get together, posing a problem for both.
Naysayland, how it works, the role Naysay Inc. plays with our own, and the intricacies of the people within it were fascinating to read about it. The whole story had at times fun moments and introspective ones, and above all it was exactly the type of light and entertaining delivery of more serious ideas that acts as a ninja slayer for readers. Yes there’s romance, mystery, intrigue, and adventure but readers will hold this story close for what it tells us about ourselves, and the simple ways to be kinder and better to ourselves.
The Naysayers is testament to an intriguing concept delivering so totally that you’ll find any excuse to steal time away to keep reading. This book hits the right chord given where the world is now both with social media and a shared feeling of lethargy and stifled hope in the world. That’s not to say it’s a downer, on the contrary the lessons on its pages may just help you, as you work through the very fun plot.
Megan works as a lead whisperer for Naysay Inc., a role she was literally raised for given her legacy and her mother at the helm, and of course her ability to bring people in our world (the parallel universe Naysayland is leaps and bounds ahead of) to a place of continuous vulnerability and lack of hope. She has a rivalry with Ben, who’s been leading the pack of whisperers, so things get very interesting when one of her clients and one of his get together, posing a problem for both.
Naysayland, how it works, the role Naysay Inc. plays with our own, and the intricacies of the people within it were fascinating to read about it. The whole story had at times fun moments and introspective ones, and above all it was exactly the type of light and entertaining delivery of more serious ideas that acts as a ninja slayer for readers. Yes there’s romance, mystery, intrigue, and adventure but readers will hold this story close for what it tells us about ourselves, and the simple ways to be kinder and better to ourselves.
February 6, 2026
Funny Romance
Maybe that little voice in your head is an employee from Naysayers, an other worldly place where it's a job to quash happiness and love. When 2 employees from Naysayer start getting close and feel had about the mess their whisperings have caused, they want out. The problem is that you don't get out, especially when your mom is in charge. Poor them ... Maybe they should make a break for it! This was a quick silly funny love tale. Cute!!
Maybe that little voice in your head is an employee from Naysayers, an other worldly place where it's a job to quash happiness and love. When 2 employees from Naysayer start getting close and feel had about the mess their whisperings have caused, they want out. The problem is that you don't get out, especially when your mom is in charge. Poor them ... Maybe they should make a break for it! This was a quick silly funny love tale. Cute!!
January 31, 2026
The beginning was a little bit slow, but I loved learning about Naysay land! It was a cute idea for a book. Felt like the ending had a lot shoved into the last few chapters, but overall I enjoyed it.
October 30, 2025
Naysay Inc is the major employer in Naysayland, a parallel universal where “whisperers”, with the aid of unseen drones, invade people’s thoughts who live in the Real World, infusing self-doubt, ruining relationships, and causing depression. These acts cause Real Worlders to purchase products and services from companies that are clients of Naysay Inc who pay a fee, funding Naysay’s work, all the while keeping the Real World off balance. The Naysayers is a clever and witty parody of today’s social media obsessed world, taking dead aim at “influencers”, self help gurus and corporate greed. Plenty of laughs in this one with subtle jokes in almost every dialogue, with rom-com vibes and a healthy dose of sarcasm. If you’re looking for a lighthearted skewering of today’s world, then this totally unique book is for you. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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January 13, 2026One of my Little A Publishing edits, available now!
https://www.editsbykristi.com/the-nay...
https://www.editsbykristi.com/the-nay...
January 6, 2026
What if that voice inside your head wasn’t your own? What if it was someone’s job to whisper negative things to make you doubt yourself, to keep you anxious? Well, that is exactly what this novel is about. Megan is a rising star at Naysayers, Inc (as expected of the CEO’s daughter). Her job as Lead Whisperer is to plant seeds of self-doubt and negativity in the minds of her clients who live in the “Real World”. When Megan is forced to partner up with her charming coworker Ben to sabotage her influencer client’s blossoming relationship with his client, a reclusive author, they start realizing that naysaying may not be all there is to their lives.
I really enjoyed the concept of this book! It does an awesome job of personifying that negative, nagging voice that sometimes creeps in when you’re nervous, scared, or anxious. To think of that voice as an external source is funny and uncomfortable at the same time. I’d hate to give someone else power over my thoughts or actions but I do like the perspective of ignoring those naysaying thoughts.
As a big fan of fantasy, I spent the majority of the book wondering how the world was structured. Once you get to around the 80% mark, you learn more about the actual structure of the world but I wouldn’t consider any part of it world-building so if you’re looking for a not-so-fantasy book, then this one is for you! If you were a fan of Haig’s The Midnight Library, then this one has a similar sense of magical realism to it.
The character growth in this book is steady and the chemistry between Megan and Ben is evident throughout the novel. I will say the pacing is a bit iffy to me on parts of the story but overall, it came together very nicely and I really enjoyed the ending! It’s a good novel to spin a new perspective on your inner voice and the mechanics of the corporate world. I received a listeners copy of this book and enjoyed the narrator. Would definitely recommend!
I received this ALC through NetGalley and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed the concept of this book! It does an awesome job of personifying that negative, nagging voice that sometimes creeps in when you’re nervous, scared, or anxious. To think of that voice as an external source is funny and uncomfortable at the same time. I’d hate to give someone else power over my thoughts or actions but I do like the perspective of ignoring those naysaying thoughts.
As a big fan of fantasy, I spent the majority of the book wondering how the world was structured. Once you get to around the 80% mark, you learn more about the actual structure of the world but I wouldn’t consider any part of it world-building so if you’re looking for a not-so-fantasy book, then this one is for you! If you were a fan of Haig’s The Midnight Library, then this one has a similar sense of magical realism to it.
The character growth in this book is steady and the chemistry between Megan and Ben is evident throughout the novel. I will say the pacing is a bit iffy to me on parts of the story but overall, it came together very nicely and I really enjoyed the ending! It’s a good novel to spin a new perspective on your inner voice and the mechanics of the corporate world. I received a listeners copy of this book and enjoyed the narrator. Would definitely recommend!
I received this ALC through NetGalley and am leaving a review voluntarily.
November 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have long been one of my favorite writing duos, so I was elated to receive a complimentary copy of The Naysayers from Little A and NetGalley. The Naysayers was refreshingly original and such a fun read.
I’ve always loved their writing style because it manages to feel both playful and meaningful at the same time. They have a clever way of blending humor, heart, and just the right amount of quirk, keeping their stories fresh and fun without losing any emotional depth. I also love that their prose isn’t overly dense or flowery. It’s conversational and easy to sink into, which makes their books so approachable and engaging.
The Naysayers is a quirky, clever story about Megan, who works for Naysay, Inc.—a company that literally plants negative thoughts into people’s heads. Her latest assignment is to break up a new couple, influencer Lily and author Jasper, with the help of her coworker Ben. But as Megan gets to know them—and starts catching feelings herself—she begins to question her job and the damage it causes. It’s a fun mix of satire, romance, and heart with a unique twist on self-doubt and corporate culture.
I loved the original concept and the imaginative world Fenton and Steinke created. The way they blended satire and romance was so skillful, and I really appreciated the witty, sharp writing that kept things light despite the darker premise. My only complaint was that the pacing slowed a bit during the sections where the characters and rules of the world were being explained, but overall it was such an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little A for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have long been one of my favorite writing duos, so I was elated to receive a complimentary copy of The Naysayers from Little A and NetGalley. The Naysayers was refreshingly original and such a fun read.
I’ve always loved their writing style because it manages to feel both playful and meaningful at the same time. They have a clever way of blending humor, heart, and just the right amount of quirk, keeping their stories fresh and fun without losing any emotional depth. I also love that their prose isn’t overly dense or flowery. It’s conversational and easy to sink into, which makes their books so approachable and engaging.
The Naysayers is a quirky, clever story about Megan, who works for Naysay, Inc.—a company that literally plants negative thoughts into people’s heads. Her latest assignment is to break up a new couple, influencer Lily and author Jasper, with the help of her coworker Ben. But as Megan gets to know them—and starts catching feelings herself—she begins to question her job and the damage it causes. It’s a fun mix of satire, romance, and heart with a unique twist on self-doubt and corporate culture.
I loved the original concept and the imaginative world Fenton and Steinke created. The way they blended satire and romance was so skillful, and I really appreciated the witty, sharp writing that kept things light despite the darker premise. My only complaint was that the pacing slowed a bit during the sections where the characters and rules of the world were being explained, but overall it was such an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little A for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
January 14, 2026
Happy Book Birthday to The Naysayers! I adore these two authors and I have no clue what they’ve been up to but happy they got back to writing!
We all have that voice in our heads that either gives us a good pep talk or fill us with self doubt. It’s always easier to listen to the negative thoughts right? Well what if there was an actual company dedicated to only filling your head with negative thoughts?
Megan Lowell has spent her whole life preparing to become a lead whisperer like her mother and grandmother. These women are legends at NaySayers Inc and Megan knows she has what it takes to make everyone proud. Her entire job is to make her clients feel anxious and full of shelf doubt. Everything is going well until Megan’s client starts having feelings for her coworkers client and all their normal tactics don’t work. Why can’t they stop these two from falling in love? Is it possible that nothing can get in the way of someone finding their soulmate? At the same time something unspeakable happens…Megan and her coworker Max are catching feelings for each other. Not only is this a no-no in Naysayers Inc but her mom will lose her mind.
She’s never had empathy for her clients but now that she’s having feelings of her own everything she thought she knew has changed.
Is she willing to risk what she worked so hard for?
Turns out you don’t want to destroy someone’s life when you’re content with yours.
We all have that voice in our heads that either gives us a good pep talk or fill us with self doubt. It’s always easier to listen to the negative thoughts right? Well what if there was an actual company dedicated to only filling your head with negative thoughts?
Megan Lowell has spent her whole life preparing to become a lead whisperer like her mother and grandmother. These women are legends at NaySayers Inc and Megan knows she has what it takes to make everyone proud. Her entire job is to make her clients feel anxious and full of shelf doubt. Everything is going well until Megan’s client starts having feelings for her coworkers client and all their normal tactics don’t work. Why can’t they stop these two from falling in love? Is it possible that nothing can get in the way of someone finding their soulmate? At the same time something unspeakable happens…Megan and her coworker Max are catching feelings for each other. Not only is this a no-no in Naysayers Inc but her mom will lose her mind.
She’s never had empathy for her clients but now that she’s having feelings of her own everything she thought she knew has changed.
Is she willing to risk what she worked so hard for?
Turns out you don’t want to destroy someone’s life when you’re content with yours.
January 16, 2026
4.75/5 - only below a 5 because I did have a hard time at first getting the concept but once I did, I loved it. This is a unique story concept, and this writing (and best friend duo) pulled it off. Megan comes from a long line of highly successful naysayers, I mean her grandmother ran the company until recently and now her mom is in charge; the hope is, obviously, that Megan will run it one day. Megan is going to be great at her job because she's been groomed for this and starts off as a lead whisperer, which doesn't usually happen. She's locked in until she has to partner with Ben Shaw because two of their clients meet each other and are all love struck. Their mission is to strike out love by whispering negative thoughts in their heads (i.e. he doesn't really like you, you're a loser, it wasn't what you think it was, etc). The thing is that Megan finds it's harder for those negative thoughts to get through when it's not just the body that connects but their brains.
I really liked the social commentary and the psychology aspect of the novel plus it is a lot of fun as well. I'm happy that this dynamic duo is back!
I really liked the social commentary and the psychology aspect of the novel plus it is a lot of fun as well. I'm happy that this dynamic duo is back!
December 17, 2025
“Naysay Inc.’s mission statement: To bring negativity to and expose the vulnerabilities of every Real Worlder through carefully calculated whispers.”
This book was everything I never knew I needed in a book. So wonderfully weird in premise, I enjoyed it so much. This is a romance book, but it’s so much more.
In Naysayland, an alternate world where everyone is full of negativity and apathy, some work for Naysay Inc, where they become whisperers, aka the voices in your head, and whisper negative thoughts. Megan, who’s the most nepo baby ever, gets a job as a lead whisperer, and is assigned Lily, an influencer that just had a meltdown go viral and is extremely vulnerable. But when Lily meets Jasper, who’s being negatively influenced by Megan’s rival coworker Ben, Megan and Ben have to work together to keep Lily and Jasper apart.
There’s so much to love here. This was so fun, at times emotional, at others hilarious, while telling such an interesting story. I don’t think I can fully convey just how much fun this book was, but the fact that I read it in a day should be telling enough!
This book was everything I never knew I needed in a book. So wonderfully weird in premise, I enjoyed it so much. This is a romance book, but it’s so much more.
In Naysayland, an alternate world where everyone is full of negativity and apathy, some work for Naysay Inc, where they become whisperers, aka the voices in your head, and whisper negative thoughts. Megan, who’s the most nepo baby ever, gets a job as a lead whisperer, and is assigned Lily, an influencer that just had a meltdown go viral and is extremely vulnerable. But when Lily meets Jasper, who’s being negatively influenced by Megan’s rival coworker Ben, Megan and Ben have to work together to keep Lily and Jasper apart.
There’s so much to love here. This was so fun, at times emotional, at others hilarious, while telling such an interesting story. I don’t think I can fully convey just how much fun this book was, but the fact that I read it in a day should be telling enough!
November 6, 2025
How timely the premise of this book. That little voice in the back of your head that urges you on or spurns your ideas making you feel unsure of your capabilities. In the Naysayers sphere to dissuade “World people” any sense of accomplishment, feelings of self-worth, or fulfilled romantic attachments is their goal. Reducing their clients to shadows of what their potential could become is something to be celebrated. Megan and Ben are the whisperers who silkily damper any potential success their clients might achieve.
Megan, newly hired to Naysayers, is the product of a mother and grandmother part of the firm’s hierarchy. On her first day Megan meets Ben the top whisperer in the firm. The two Naysayers, while working to break up their clients Lily and Jasper’s budding romance, develop feelings for one another. These feelings, totally opposite of Naysayers mission statement, will cause an upheaval in the lives of Megan and Ben. Fleeing the dreaded HR repercussions due to their positive reinforcement, the couple gain support from a surprising source.
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have their fingers on the pulse of today. Negativity abounds and their novel takes on a soul searching journey of positive influence.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this fresh and original novel. I love this book and was impressed with the thought provoking premise. Five stars aren’t enough.
Megan, newly hired to Naysayers, is the product of a mother and grandmother part of the firm’s hierarchy. On her first day Megan meets Ben the top whisperer in the firm. The two Naysayers, while working to break up their clients Lily and Jasper’s budding romance, develop feelings for one another. These feelings, totally opposite of Naysayers mission statement, will cause an upheaval in the lives of Megan and Ben. Fleeing the dreaded HR repercussions due to their positive reinforcement, the couple gain support from a surprising source.
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have their fingers on the pulse of today. Negativity abounds and their novel takes on a soul searching journey of positive influence.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this fresh and original novel. I love this book and was impressed with the thought provoking premise. Five stars aren’t enough.
January 15, 2026
*4.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
I’ve truly loved almost all of the books from these gals, and this one was no exception!
I love, love, love the characters, and I loved the message of this book. And I really thought the world was just so interesting and fun to follow without being too confusing or complex.
It would be fun to read more from this world I think! And I really loved how different this one was from a lot of their other books! It’s fun to see them branch out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
I’ve truly loved almost all of the books from these gals, and this one was no exception!
I love, love, love the characters, and I loved the message of this book. And I really thought the world was just so interesting and fun to follow without being too confusing or complex.
It would be fun to read more from this world I think! And I really loved how different this one was from a lot of their other books! It’s fun to see them branch out.
December 27, 2025
One of the best books I’be read in 2025! The wit of the FMC, the determination of a lot of characters, the discomfort, the doubts. All those things were included in a brilliant way along the way to find the right pathway for change. All the topics are treated in a very poignant way.
January 20, 2026
I received this ebook as a Goodreads giveaway and looked forward to reading it because of the creative and unique storyline.
The book follows Megan as she starts working for the company where her mother is CEO, as was her grandmother before that (now retired). Therefore, she has a lot to prove as the latest employee where everyone knows her family legacy. The competition is stiff, but Megan is ambitious and confident. She’s had extensive preparation for entering the company business, so what could possibly go wrong?
This is a light, quick read with a pinch of fantasy, humor and romance that many people will enjoy. But, it also touches on deeper themes related to self esteem as well as unrestrained corporate greed.
I enjoyed the novel well enough but had higher hopes for it. I think it’s safe to say that I wasn’t really the target audience for this book, generationally speaking.
The book follows Megan as she starts working for the company where her mother is CEO, as was her grandmother before that (now retired). Therefore, she has a lot to prove as the latest employee where everyone knows her family legacy. The competition is stiff, but Megan is ambitious and confident. She’s had extensive preparation for entering the company business, so what could possibly go wrong?
This is a light, quick read with a pinch of fantasy, humor and romance that many people will enjoy. But, it also touches on deeper themes related to self esteem as well as unrestrained corporate greed.
I enjoyed the novel well enough but had higher hopes for it. I think it’s safe to say that I wasn’t really the target audience for this book, generationally speaking.
January 21, 2026
3.5★ - Super fun worldbuilding, writing, and plot but sometimes the characters were a little too obnoxious for me to root for. That's most likely my fault tho since I'm a natural pessimist/hater lol. Glad I read it!
January 14, 2026
Really interesting premise and really enjoyed how this book progressed.
February 5, 2026
I'm surprised or not surprised at how much this book resonated with me. so funny and witty and makes me want to battle the naysayers in my head.
February 2, 2026
This book was so so cute to me! Pretty unique but also pretty relatable in an odd way lol. The characters were lovable, even the annoying ones. But I couldn’t put this down. I’m not the fastest reader, but I finished this in just a few days. (That might be laughable to some super fast readers, but it’s quick for me and that just part of my review is that I ate this one up) the ending got a little corny, but I still loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I very much enjoyed this book. It was a great palate cleanser. The concept of the book and idea behind it had me hooked quickly. I did think there were some significant questions and areas I don’t think made a ton of sense, almost dancing on plot holes. However, this was a book I was happy I got to read, and happy I finished. The pop culture references were absolutely hilarious. Legit laugh out loud hilarious.
The narrator was listed as Megan Tusing. I have heard her narrating before and I really enjoy her style. Great pick.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. Super fun.
The narrator was listed as Megan Tusing. I have heard her narrating before and I really enjoy her style. Great pick.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. Super fun.
February 2, 2026
The concept of this book was fun and a friendly reminder of how many of us can spend too much time in our own heads listening to voices that, when we step back, truly aren't ours. Not that we all have Naysay whisperers in our ears, but, in a way, many of us do.
I thought this was an interesting way to do an enemies-to-lovers romance book, and, overall, I liked the way that the plot developed. It did feel a bit disjointed at points, like it could have flowed more smoothly, but I was interested throughout the whole book and sometimes that's what matters most.
Within the barbs taken at influencer culture, capitalism, and self-obsession, there is a heart-warming story highlighting the power and importance of relationships and connection with others.
I thought this was an interesting way to do an enemies-to-lovers romance book, and, overall, I liked the way that the plot developed. It did feel a bit disjointed at points, like it could have flowed more smoothly, but I was interested throughout the whole book and sometimes that's what matters most.
Within the barbs taken at influencer culture, capitalism, and self-obsession, there is a heart-warming story highlighting the power and importance of relationships and connection with others.
January 14, 2026
Naysayers live in an alternate place to the real world we know. They aren't familiar with warm, fuzzy feelings and Jacqueline's character embodies that! This was such a unique idea for a book, I loved it!
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced read.
January 31, 2026
Negative voices in your head
Charming story about those little negative voices in your head and the damage they can cause. Incredible impact these negative thoughts have on you and the choices you make because of them. Cute read.
Charming story about those little negative voices in your head and the damage they can cause. Incredible impact these negative thoughts have on you and the choices you make because of them. Cute read.
January 29, 2026
This was such an odd and diabolical start to a book but I absolutely loved it. Such beautiful social commentary on negative self talk and our collective loss of empathy through social media and overuse of the internet. Great reminders to be kind to ourselves and to dedicate the time and energy into our real world connections. Overall wild premise but this one will stick with me!
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