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Just a Guy With a Goal #1
The Romcom Remake
She’s plotting a romcom. He’s playing without a game plan.
But sometimes the best love stories are the ones that don’t follow the script.
Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance?
Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after.
True love is out there. It’s real. And Fran won’t be leaving without it.
But so far, her romcom remakes have been one epic fail after another.
Until one unexpected kiss from a handsome stranger saves her from public humiliation—
Callum Whitaker–professional soccer player and certified romance skeptic–didn’t plan to kiss Fran. Or to spiral into a six-month goal drought. Let’s just say the universe isn’t playing fair.
After a toxic relationship, Callum has decided that love isn’t part of his agenda… while scoring goals on the field is. Only the more he focuses on his game–the worse it gets.
Until Fran.
Yep, quirky, cute little Fran–who Callum is determined NOT to fall for–just might be his lucky charm. That kiss and her schemes are changing his game.
But Fran’s got more than luck on her side–she’s on a mission: Convince Callum that love is not the enemy. And somehow, it’s working. Bit by bit, he’s realizing he does need love in his life.
Or maybe he just needs Fran.
But sometimes the best love stories are the ones that don’t follow the script.
Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance?
Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after.
True love is out there. It’s real. And Fran won’t be leaving without it.
But so far, her romcom remakes have been one epic fail after another.
Until one unexpected kiss from a handsome stranger saves her from public humiliation—
Callum Whitaker–professional soccer player and certified romance skeptic–didn’t plan to kiss Fran. Or to spiral into a six-month goal drought. Let’s just say the universe isn’t playing fair.
After a toxic relationship, Callum has decided that love isn’t part of his agenda… while scoring goals on the field is. Only the more he focuses on his game–the worse it gets.
Until Fran.
Yep, quirky, cute little Fran–who Callum is determined NOT to fall for–just might be his lucky charm. That kiss and her schemes are changing his game.
But Fran’s got more than luck on her side–she’s on a mission: Convince Callum that love is not the enemy. And somehow, it’s working. Bit by bit, he’s realizing he does need love in his life.
Or maybe he just needs Fran.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2025
171 people are currently reading
580 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
July 13, 2025
I so wanted to love this book, but it just didn’t do it for me. I couldn’t fully get on board with Fran’s theory, and found it annoying at points. I loved Callum, and there were many scenes between them that I did love. The side characters: teammates, friends and family were great. The story just felt disjointed to me.
August 10, 2025
THE ROMCOM REMAKE by Jen Atkinson
‘There were relationships—the kind that I once thought only true on the screen—out there, existing in the world. And Hollywood had basically provided a formula on how to obtain one.’
This book was so much fun! If you love iconic romcom references like big scenes, classic titles, and all the warm-fuzzy nostalgia—you’re going to eat this one up. Jen Atkinson never misses, and The RomCom Remake is no exception.
After a string of failed “romcom-style” relationships, Fran Fairchild is determined to script her own happily-ever-after. But when a public humiliation is saved by a kiss from a handsome stranger—Callum “Hot Lips” Whitaker—her next great love story may not follow the formula after all. He’s grumpy, guarded, and not even looking for love. Or so he thinks.
Fran and her bestie? Absolutely hilarious. Their banter had me giggling more than once, and the way they schemed (and by they I mean Fran😂) to create the perfect romcom plot felt like something straight out of…well, a romcom!
And Callum? He’s charming, infuriating, and completely unprepared for Fran’s quirky, love-obsessed determination—and that’s exactly why he works so perfectly.
If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud, feel-good romance with an endearing, delightfully quirky female main character and a hero who has a big heart despite himself, this is your next read.
I, for one, cannot wait to spend more time with this soccer team as the series continues.
Available now! Happy reading📚
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Triggers: parent abandonment, romance: kisses only (tongue mentioned once)
‘There were relationships—the kind that I once thought only true on the screen—out there, existing in the world. And Hollywood had basically provided a formula on how to obtain one.’
This book was so much fun! If you love iconic romcom references like big scenes, classic titles, and all the warm-fuzzy nostalgia—you’re going to eat this one up. Jen Atkinson never misses, and The RomCom Remake is no exception.
After a string of failed “romcom-style” relationships, Fran Fairchild is determined to script her own happily-ever-after. But when a public humiliation is saved by a kiss from a handsome stranger—Callum “Hot Lips” Whitaker—her next great love story may not follow the formula after all. He’s grumpy, guarded, and not even looking for love. Or so he thinks.
Fran and her bestie? Absolutely hilarious. Their banter had me giggling more than once, and the way they schemed (and by they I mean Fran😂) to create the perfect romcom plot felt like something straight out of…well, a romcom!
And Callum? He’s charming, infuriating, and completely unprepared for Fran’s quirky, love-obsessed determination—and that’s exactly why he works so perfectly.
If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud, feel-good romance with an endearing, delightfully quirky female main character and a hero who has a big heart despite himself, this is your next read.
I, for one, cannot wait to spend more time with this soccer team as the series continues.
Available now! Happy reading📚
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Triggers: parent abandonment, romance: kisses only (tongue mentioned once)
July 11, 2025
The ROMCOM Remake
by: Jen Atkinson
@authorjenatkinson
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~She’s plotting a romcom. He’s playing without a game plan. But sometimes the best love stories are the ones that don’t follow the script. Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance? Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after…
“I’m not looking for a Cary Grant or Ryan Gosling, just a good human. A storybook romance. Someone who will complete me in every possible way and make me happy. Someone I can love and bring joy to in return.”
-The ROMCOM Remake, is a delightful laugh-out-loud, closed door romcom. You can look forward to plenty of swoony kisses, cackle-inducing moments, heart-thumping heroes, and one adorable, hopeless, romcom remaking heroine. And ZERO explicit scenes!
It has endearing characters, a soccer backdrop, playful sparks of chemistry, nostalgic 90s rom-com movie references, and an extra layer of depth with character’s choices/experiences/backgrounds, which gives extra heart to this dear story! Watching dear characters come to realize what it means to simply be themselves, that they are enough was so very wonderful. This is a story worth reading!🙌🏻📚❤️
“Our story is magical, but not because it’s perfect, simply because it’s ours.”
•Content: strained family relationships/upbringing, very minimal amount of language, on scene accident involving some blood, kisses only.
“No pretending. Just be you. That’s all I need.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Love is worth the risk.”
#theromcomremake
#authorjenatkinson
“Everyone does things differently. And that’s
okay.”
#allaboutthebestreads
by: Jen Atkinson
@authorjenatkinson
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~She’s plotting a romcom. He’s playing without a game plan. But sometimes the best love stories are the ones that don’t follow the script. Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance? Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after…
“I’m not looking for a Cary Grant or Ryan Gosling, just a good human. A storybook romance. Someone who will complete me in every possible way and make me happy. Someone I can love and bring joy to in return.”
-The ROMCOM Remake, is a delightful laugh-out-loud, closed door romcom. You can look forward to plenty of swoony kisses, cackle-inducing moments, heart-thumping heroes, and one adorable, hopeless, romcom remaking heroine. And ZERO explicit scenes!
It has endearing characters, a soccer backdrop, playful sparks of chemistry, nostalgic 90s rom-com movie references, and an extra layer of depth with character’s choices/experiences/backgrounds, which gives extra heart to this dear story! Watching dear characters come to realize what it means to simply be themselves, that they are enough was so very wonderful. This is a story worth reading!🙌🏻📚❤️
“Our story is magical, but not because it’s perfect, simply because it’s ours.”
•Content: strained family relationships/upbringing, very minimal amount of language, on scene accident involving some blood, kisses only.
“No pretending. Just be you. That’s all I need.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Love is worth the risk.”
#theromcomremake
#authorjenatkinson
“Everyone does things differently. And that’s
okay.”
#allaboutthebestreads
July 18, 2025
THIS WAS SUPER FUN! I really loved the plot of this book! It was unique and different and kept me engaged the entire time. I feel like it gave 2000s nostalgia the entire time, but i can’t quite explain why! 😆 give me a 2000s R&B love playlist and this book and i’ll have the best time! 🎶
I really loved our MCs. I love that the both just kinda went with what the other wanted - the goood luck charm & the remakes! it was super endearing. I also love a romance when the yearning and want for each other is bleeding off the page to the reader but the MCs just have no idea, it makes it all the more better when the finally dive all in!
Callum’s family was one of my absolute favorite parts of this book! I adored them and how absolutely hysterical they were but also how endearing they were. I wanted to be there playing the silly murder game with them.
I’ve said it before, and i’ll say it again. Jen’s writing is sooooooo good. It’s easy to read, bingable, engaging and will have you feeling all the emotions - giggling, swooning, yearning with the character, kicking your feet, crying (when she wants you too) and being the MCs biggest cheerleaders.
The Vibes:
-Opposites Attract
-Practice Dating
-Found Family
-Sports Romcom ⚽️
-Strangers, to friends to more
I really loved our MCs. I love that the both just kinda went with what the other wanted - the goood luck charm & the remakes! it was super endearing. I also love a romance when the yearning and want for each other is bleeding off the page to the reader but the MCs just have no idea, it makes it all the more better when the finally dive all in!
Callum’s family was one of my absolute favorite parts of this book! I adored them and how absolutely hysterical they were but also how endearing they were. I wanted to be there playing the silly murder game with them.
I’ve said it before, and i’ll say it again. Jen’s writing is sooooooo good. It’s easy to read, bingable, engaging and will have you feeling all the emotions - giggling, swooning, yearning with the character, kicking your feet, crying (when she wants you too) and being the MCs biggest cheerleaders.
The Vibes:
-Opposites Attract
-Practice Dating
-Found Family
-Sports Romcom ⚽️
-Strangers, to friends to more
August 12, 2025
ADORED this book!
Oh my goodness this RomCom was so witty and clever! I was cackling through the entire thing!
Fran was adorable, and I loved how she had so much depth and growth.
Callum... BOY did it take him a hot second to figure things out but the journey was so fun and swoony.
I loved all the side characters and can't wait for the many stories to come!
Rosalie I'm looking at you 👀
Loved loved loved and thoroughly enjoyed the soccer references!
💋Makeouts only
⚠️Fran's parents were bleh, and a toxic ex girlfriend for Callum
Oh my goodness this RomCom was so witty and clever! I was cackling through the entire thing!
Fran was adorable, and I loved how she had so much depth and growth.
Callum... BOY did it take him a hot second to figure things out but the journey was so fun and swoony.
I loved all the side characters and can't wait for the many stories to come!
Rosalie I'm looking at you 👀
Loved loved loved and thoroughly enjoyed the soccer references!
💋Makeouts only
⚠️Fran's parents were bleh, and a toxic ex girlfriend for Callum
July 21, 2025
Simply adorable. Fran is not your typical girl. She is quirky, has a past and is a romance lover. She is my girl. Loved the stranger to lovers trope. Can’t wait for the next book to come out!
August 19, 2025
So this book is about the classic FMC who is all about the perfect romance and the MMC who is all about how love is definitely not for him.
Fran is in college, wants to write, and thinks that life should be like a romcom. She thinks that it she can just create the perfect romcom remake of any 90’s or early 2000’s movie, then she will end up with her love story.
Callum is a semi pro soccer player. He’s been playing poorly, until he makes a move to do something spontaneous. He’s hung up on how he doesn’t need love, but is willing to teach Fran how to date without focusing just on the dating. It’s cute to watch each of them fall. And their stories and focus change.
This is the perfect sweet story. It’s fun, cute, brings you back to your chick flick watching days. It’s clean and no swearing. It’s basically the perfect romcom movie put to a book.
Fran is in college, wants to write, and thinks that life should be like a romcom. She thinks that it she can just create the perfect romcom remake of any 90’s or early 2000’s movie, then she will end up with her love story.
Callum is a semi pro soccer player. He’s been playing poorly, until he makes a move to do something spontaneous. He’s hung up on how he doesn’t need love, but is willing to teach Fran how to date without focusing just on the dating. It’s cute to watch each of them fall. And their stories and focus change.
This is the perfect sweet story. It’s fun, cute, brings you back to your chick flick watching days. It’s clean and no swearing. It’s basically the perfect romcom movie put to a book.
July 9, 2025
6⭐️ all the stars!! This is my favorite book by Jen Atkinson so far and one I know I won’t forget!
⚽️❤️🎬Fave Quotes🎬❤️⚽️
She swallows. Her eyes gaze up at me.
We are not in a romcom. I am not her happily ever after. But she’s looking at me like I might be. Our dating is strategic. It has a purpose. I’m helping her. She’s helping me. I know that. She knows that.
But it feels like something else at this moment.
A loud whistle sounds from the crowd of fans, releasing the hold I have on her and the spell Fran has possibly cast on me. The kiss was soft, chaste, and much too short. It leaves me hungry and wondering how in the world I’ll be able to go out and play a decent game today.
“Hey, Franny,” Lucca says. “You got a lucky kiss for me too?” He taps his clean shaven cheek.
Fran’s brows lower in question, and a hum escapes her as if she may be considering it.
“Nope,” I say, reaching for her wrist and pulling her half a foot behind me. “She isn’t the team kissing booth, Cruz. She’s my guest, and you’ll behave.”
“Can you say something for me?”
“Say what?”
“Just look at me and say these words.”
Her amber eyes shut, her chin lifts, and she whispers out the line she’s feeding me. “You have bewitched me, body and soul.”
“Fran Fairchild, you have bewitched me into doing things I’d never normally do. You’ve taken away my sanity, my reasoning, and possibly my self-control.”
Her eyes flutter open, and I take one step back. I’m too close. Fran smells a bit like the diner, and I’ve never wanted a cheeseburger so bad in my life.
“Just be you. That’s all I need.”
“Lucky charm,” she says.
“Lucky to have you with me,” I say.
⚽️❤️🎬My Thoughts🎬❤️⚽️
⚽️I absolutely loved Jen Atkinson’s Another Bailey brother series and I was so excited to see that her next series were gonna be sports romcoms and with soccer! This has got to be my favorite book I have ever read from her! This concept was genius! I could picture it perfectly playing out as a romcom movie in my head.
🎬In this book we have Fran who has had a rough upbringing and out to prove that you can create romance by recreating moments from romcom movies. Then you have Cal who accidentally creates one of those moments with Fran when he sees her coming out of a Karaoke bar and worst of all he doesn’t believe in love.
⚽️I don’t have words for how much I loved this book but some of my favorite parts of the book was the first game she goes to and Cal leaves something for Fran pick up with a note attached that not only made snort laugh but also made me swoon.
When Fran sat down and tells Cal why she does what she does I was absolutely sobbing at that part!
Oh my gosh the scene with the bucket list was the best, just think A Walk To Remember! I also have that tattoo.
The random act of kindness that involved them breaking and entering had me giggling so much!
I loved Lester he was always there giving Fran advice and just the best side character besides the team. I also loved all of Cal’s teammates and how they took to Fran right away and even gave her a nickname! I hope they all get books!
I absolutely sobbed my way through the end of chapter 42 when Fran goes home with Cal to meet his family. When Cal’s mom talks to her at the end of the chapter was so heartwarming. Absolutely loved Cal’s family and how they just took her right in!
🎬If you are a fan of late 90’s and early 00’s romcoms then you must absolutely add this one to your TBR you will not be disappointed. I know I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in this series! I’m kinda hoping it’s Rosalie and Zev!
⚽️Thank you so much Jen Atkinson for providing me an e-arc to read and review all thoughts, fangirling, and opinions are my own.
⚽️❤️🎬Fave Quotes🎬❤️⚽️
She swallows. Her eyes gaze up at me.
We are not in a romcom. I am not her happily ever after. But she’s looking at me like I might be. Our dating is strategic. It has a purpose. I’m helping her. She’s helping me. I know that. She knows that.
But it feels like something else at this moment.
A loud whistle sounds from the crowd of fans, releasing the hold I have on her and the spell Fran has possibly cast on me. The kiss was soft, chaste, and much too short. It leaves me hungry and wondering how in the world I’ll be able to go out and play a decent game today.
“Hey, Franny,” Lucca says. “You got a lucky kiss for me too?” He taps his clean shaven cheek.
Fran’s brows lower in question, and a hum escapes her as if she may be considering it.
“Nope,” I say, reaching for her wrist and pulling her half a foot behind me. “She isn’t the team kissing booth, Cruz. She’s my guest, and you’ll behave.”
“Can you say something for me?”
“Say what?”
“Just look at me and say these words.”
Her amber eyes shut, her chin lifts, and she whispers out the line she’s feeding me. “You have bewitched me, body and soul.”
“Fran Fairchild, you have bewitched me into doing things I’d never normally do. You’ve taken away my sanity, my reasoning, and possibly my self-control.”
Her eyes flutter open, and I take one step back. I’m too close. Fran smells a bit like the diner, and I’ve never wanted a cheeseburger so bad in my life.
“Just be you. That’s all I need.”
“Lucky charm,” she says.
“Lucky to have you with me,” I say.
⚽️❤️🎬My Thoughts🎬❤️⚽️
⚽️I absolutely loved Jen Atkinson’s Another Bailey brother series and I was so excited to see that her next series were gonna be sports romcoms and with soccer! This has got to be my favorite book I have ever read from her! This concept was genius! I could picture it perfectly playing out as a romcom movie in my head.
🎬In this book we have Fran who has had a rough upbringing and out to prove that you can create romance by recreating moments from romcom movies. Then you have Cal who accidentally creates one of those moments with Fran when he sees her coming out of a Karaoke bar and worst of all he doesn’t believe in love.
⚽️I don’t have words for how much I loved this book but some of my favorite parts of the book was the first game she goes to and Cal leaves something for Fran pick up with a note attached that not only made snort laugh but also made me swoon.
When Fran sat down and tells Cal why she does what she does I was absolutely sobbing at that part!
Oh my gosh the scene with the bucket list was the best, just think A Walk To Remember! I also have that tattoo.
The random act of kindness that involved them breaking and entering had me giggling so much!
I loved Lester he was always there giving Fran advice and just the best side character besides the team. I also loved all of Cal’s teammates and how they took to Fran right away and even gave her a nickname! I hope they all get books!
I absolutely sobbed my way through the end of chapter 42 when Fran goes home with Cal to meet his family. When Cal’s mom talks to her at the end of the chapter was so heartwarming. Absolutely loved Cal’s family and how they just took her right in!
🎬If you are a fan of late 90’s and early 00’s romcoms then you must absolutely add this one to your TBR you will not be disappointed. I know I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in this series! I’m kinda hoping it’s Rosalie and Zev!
⚽️Thank you so much Jen Atkinson for providing me an e-arc to read and review all thoughts, fangirling, and opinions are my own.
July 5, 2025
Jen Atkinson has done it again with the sweetest, wooliest romcom about, well, romcoms!!
Fran Fairchild is determined to fall in love by recreating moments from her favorite romcoms! When her karaoke date ends in disaster and a cute stranger kisses her outside the bar, she has no idea that her life is about to change!
Callum Whitaker, a soccer player for the Reno l-Tesoro Red Tails hasn’t had the best luck during games since his last girlfriend. So when his buddies dare him to kiss the cute girl from karaoke bar, he has no idea what a good luck charm she turns out to be!
Oh my goodness! This book was so, so cute! Cute and quirky Fran and her love of romcoms was adorable! I loved how she was just proud of who she was and went with it! Callum was so cute and naive, thinking he could spend time with Fran and kiss her without catching feelings for her. 😏
Favorite quotes:
“I’m living a romcom. Right here. Right now.”
“I’m not looking for a Cary Grant or Ryan Gosling, just a good human. A storybook romance. Someone who will complete me in every possible way and make me happy. Someone I can love and bring joy to in return.”
“If you’re going to lose your mind, you have to do it after school hours. Do you have any idea how many things an elementary school teacher is thinking about during the school day?”
“I explained that we’re friends. Just friends.” That light-bursting smile is back. “Do you normally kiss your friends like that, Fran?”
“I’ve got a plan—and while I can’t say that my plans never fail me, I can say that my plans are always good ones, and I’m sticking to this plan. Like fresh Velcro stuck to a wool sweater. I’m nothing if not persistent.”
“I want to experience love, but I’d rather not get my heart broken, and for the first time in my life, it’s in very real danger.”
Fran Fairchild is determined to fall in love by recreating moments from her favorite romcoms! When her karaoke date ends in disaster and a cute stranger kisses her outside the bar, she has no idea that her life is about to change!
Callum Whitaker, a soccer player for the Reno l-Tesoro Red Tails hasn’t had the best luck during games since his last girlfriend. So when his buddies dare him to kiss the cute girl from karaoke bar, he has no idea what a good luck charm she turns out to be!
Oh my goodness! This book was so, so cute! Cute and quirky Fran and her love of romcoms was adorable! I loved how she was just proud of who she was and went with it! Callum was so cute and naive, thinking he could spend time with Fran and kiss her without catching feelings for her. 😏
Favorite quotes:
“I’m living a romcom. Right here. Right now.”
“I’m not looking for a Cary Grant or Ryan Gosling, just a good human. A storybook romance. Someone who will complete me in every possible way and make me happy. Someone I can love and bring joy to in return.”
“If you’re going to lose your mind, you have to do it after school hours. Do you have any idea how many things an elementary school teacher is thinking about during the school day?”
“I explained that we’re friends. Just friends.” That light-bursting smile is back. “Do you normally kiss your friends like that, Fran?”
“I’ve got a plan—and while I can’t say that my plans never fail me, I can say that my plans are always good ones, and I’m sticking to this plan. Like fresh Velcro stuck to a wool sweater. I’m nothing if not persistent.”
“I want to experience love, but I’d rather not get my heart broken, and for the first time in my life, it’s in very real danger.”
June 30, 2025
I've never read a Jen Atkinson book that I haven't enjoyed... but this one is easily a new favorite! I love a good slow burn, but I also love a good kiss scene... the earlier the better. Those aren't two things that we often find together, but this one perfectly delivers both. I loved these two right from the start. Fran is a hopeless romantic, set on recreating scenes from her favorite romance movies... and Callum is the professional hockey player who has been burned before and doesn't believe romance is for him. But a kiss with a random stranger changes everything... and I absolutely loved every single minute! Fran was such a fun character, you couldn't help but love her devotion to the movies she loved. Likewise, Callum was the best too--- I loved his relationship with his family, and the team dynamics added so much fun to the story too. I can't wait to get to know these guys better as the series continues. This story had me absolutely laughing out loud on multiple occasions... and the movie references? Absolute perfection! How many movie moments can you squeeze into one story? Well, I lost count... but it was such a fun idea, and one that movie fans are going to be sure to love! That moment when they recreated my favorite scene from one of my very favorites (A Walk to Remember)... sigh... it was just SO good! This is definitely one you don't want to miss.
The Romcom Remake is a closed-door romance with kisses only. It does have very minimal minor language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
The Romcom Remake is a closed-door romance with kisses only. It does have very minimal minor language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
October 18, 2025
Can I just say I loved The Romcom Remake by Jen Atkinson and leave it at that? No? Well, I will say a bit more.
Fran is so naïve, but you gotta love her. She didn't have the greatest childhood, and she has worked hard to get where she is. She doesn't have a lot of self-esteem, so she doesn't feel like she can turn a guy down when he asks her out. She is determined to recreate the perfect romcom moment.
Callum is all about soccer. Unfortunately for him, ever since he started dating Simone, even though they have since broken up, his game stinks. He practices so hard, but still isn't doing great. Lucky for him, he seems to have found his lucky charm.
Read for:
⚽romcom remakes
⚽karaoke
⚽memorable meeting
⚽lucky charm
⚽FRANNY
⚽Rosalie's warnings
⚽LOL moments
⚽witty banter
⚽ "Hot Lips"
⚽Fran has no filter
⚽Callum's family
⚽the soccer team
⚽the ending & bonus epilogue
I loved this one so much and can't wait for the second story!!!
Fran is so naïve, but you gotta love her. She didn't have the greatest childhood, and she has worked hard to get where she is. She doesn't have a lot of self-esteem, so she doesn't feel like she can turn a guy down when he asks her out. She is determined to recreate the perfect romcom moment.
Callum is all about soccer. Unfortunately for him, ever since he started dating Simone, even though they have since broken up, his game stinks. He practices so hard, but still isn't doing great. Lucky for him, he seems to have found his lucky charm.
Read for:
⚽romcom remakes
⚽karaoke
⚽memorable meeting
⚽lucky charm
⚽FRANNY
⚽Rosalie's warnings
⚽LOL moments
⚽witty banter
⚽ "Hot Lips"
⚽Fran has no filter
⚽Callum's family
⚽the soccer team
⚽the ending & bonus epilogue
I loved this one so much and can't wait for the second story!!!
August 3, 2025
I loved this one so much! 💗✨ I was ARC reading for Jen & I absolutely loved Fran & Callum!
Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance?
Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after.
👉🏼I felt this so much, I think that when you grow in a loveless home, there’s nothing that you want more than to live in a home FULL OF LOVE! 🥺
I loved the positive spin, Fran didn’t see love in her family but she saw it in someone else’s family and she’s determined to have that! 👉🏼 I love that!
This story was so funny! I was laughing out loud! I loved the opposites attract aspect!
As you know, this book was made perfect because it is clean! I went in knowing I wouldn’t have to skip anything - only swoon! 💗✨
Fran is amazing! ✨💗
Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance?
Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after.
👉🏼I felt this so much, I think that when you grow in a loveless home, there’s nothing that you want more than to live in a home FULL OF LOVE! 🥺
I loved the positive spin, Fran didn’t see love in her family but she saw it in someone else’s family and she’s determined to have that! 👉🏼 I love that!
This story was so funny! I was laughing out loud! I loved the opposites attract aspect!
As you know, this book was made perfect because it is clean! I went in knowing I wouldn’t have to skip anything - only swoon! 💗✨
Fran is amazing! ✨💗
July 14, 2025
ARC Book Review
The Romcom Remake
A Novel Written By Jen Atkinson
Fiction - Romance
Published July 2025
310 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book has a unique premise. Fran, Franny, Frances believes in love, romcoms, and happily ever after. She is looking for a storybook romance. She likes to recreate moments from her favorite romance movies. She also is quirky and naive.
Callum is a pro soccer player in a goal slump. He is taking a break on love. Acting on a bet, he kisses Fran outside of a bar. Suddenly his luck has changed. He is playing his best soccer. Is she his lucky charm?
This is a fun book to read. I liked reading about Fran and her quest for love. I liked watching Callum fall in love despite not wanting to. I loved all my favorite romcom movies mentioned in the book.
“Love is worth the risk.”
The Romcom Remake
A Novel Written By Jen Atkinson
Fiction - Romance
Published July 2025
310 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book has a unique premise. Fran, Franny, Frances believes in love, romcoms, and happily ever after. She is looking for a storybook romance. She likes to recreate moments from her favorite romance movies. She also is quirky and naive.
Callum is a pro soccer player in a goal slump. He is taking a break on love. Acting on a bet, he kisses Fran outside of a bar. Suddenly his luck has changed. He is playing his best soccer. Is she his lucky charm?
This is a fun book to read. I liked reading about Fran and her quest for love. I liked watching Callum fall in love despite not wanting to. I loved all my favorite romcom movies mentioned in the book.
“Love is worth the risk.”
July 15, 2025
This was the lighthearted romance novel I needed. I laughed so much, and my heart literally fluttered at hand holding scenes. And it was such a fun read.
A hopeless romantic and someone who thinks they don't need love in their life ever again....quite the opposites. Yet, through their remake dates (for perspectives only, of course), something changes.
If you love Romcom movies I think you'll really enjoy this one. It has so many movie references with Fran remaking some of the scenes - but do they play out to her expectations?
Sounds like a perfect summer read right? You're in luck! This book just released and it's available now on KU, paperback, and e-book.
Tropes:
⚽ Sports romance
💕 Closed door
⚽ Strangers to friends to more
💕 Movie remakes
⚽ Found family
Thank you to the author, @jen , for this eARC opportunity in exchange for my honest review.
A hopeless romantic and someone who thinks they don't need love in their life ever again....quite the opposites. Yet, through their remake dates (for perspectives only, of course), something changes.
If you love Romcom movies I think you'll really enjoy this one. It has so many movie references with Fran remaking some of the scenes - but do they play out to her expectations?
Sounds like a perfect summer read right? You're in luck! This book just released and it's available now on KU, paperback, and e-book.
Tropes:
⚽ Sports romance
💕 Closed door
⚽ Strangers to friends to more
💕 Movie remakes
⚽ Found family
Thank you to the author, @jen , for this eARC opportunity in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2025
An easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for the beginning of Jen Atkinson’s newest series.
We’re back in Reno-Tesoro with the now established Red Tails soccer team.
Picking up where the Bailey Brothers series led us, we meet Callum, Captain of the Red Tail & the quirky & wonderful Fran.
What started as a chance encounter (one might even call it a meet-cute) develops into the relationship both Cal & Fran need.
While Cal has said no thank you to love, Fran is actively pursuing it & we get to hear about every wonderful rom-com inspired date she creates
The characters are wonderful. The writing is fun and thoughtful and belly laugh inducing & you will savour every moment of it.
Thank you to Jen for letting me read this ahead of the Red Tails fandom. I loved meeting Cal and Fran.
We’re back in Reno-Tesoro with the now established Red Tails soccer team.
Picking up where the Bailey Brothers series led us, we meet Callum, Captain of the Red Tail & the quirky & wonderful Fran.
What started as a chance encounter (one might even call it a meet-cute) develops into the relationship both Cal & Fran need.
While Cal has said no thank you to love, Fran is actively pursuing it & we get to hear about every wonderful rom-com inspired date she creates
The characters are wonderful. The writing is fun and thoughtful and belly laugh inducing & you will savour every moment of it.
Thank you to Jen for letting me read this ahead of the Red Tails fandom. I loved meeting Cal and Fran.
July 18, 2025
The Romcom Remake is my first Jen Atkinson book—and definitely not my last! I’m so glad I picked it up because I think I’ve found a new author. I really enjoyed the story, the writing style, and the characters.
At first, I wasn’t sure about Fran’s quirky romcom recreations—they felt a little over-the-top—but they quickly grew on me. Once I understood her reasons behind them, I was completely hooked. Fran is such a fun, spirited character who doesn’t let life bring her down. And Callum? What a great love interest! I loved his dynamic with his team, their camaraderie, and especially the chemistry between him and Fran. They’re fantastic together.
I’m crossing my fingers that Zev and Rosalie get the next story! 4.5 stars!
At first, I wasn’t sure about Fran’s quirky romcom recreations—they felt a little over-the-top—but they quickly grew on me. Once I understood her reasons behind them, I was completely hooked. Fran is such a fun, spirited character who doesn’t let life bring her down. And Callum? What a great love interest! I loved his dynamic with his team, their camaraderie, and especially the chemistry between him and Fran. They’re fantastic together.
I’m crossing my fingers that Zev and Rosalie get the next story! 4.5 stars!
July 30, 2025
Swoony rom-com perfection! This book has it all: charming characters, soccer, nostalgic 90s romcom references, and a romance that’ll make you smile and give you heart eyes.
Fran’s growth from quirky outsider to love-struck heroine is both funny and touching. I adore her! Her chemistry with Callum is undeniable, and we all need a best friend like Rosalie.
With its skillful blend of humor, heart, and depth, this story is an absolute delight from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Fran’s growth from quirky outsider to love-struck heroine is both funny and touching. I adore her! Her chemistry with Callum is undeniable, and we all need a best friend like Rosalie.
With its skillful blend of humor, heart, and depth, this story is an absolute delight from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
July 4, 2025
This was such a cool read, Trying to remake or recreate a famous rom-com is the sweetest way to try to find love. Seeing some of my fave romcoms mentioned here was such a cool way to get through the book. Plus Fran was just trying to find love the only way she knew how. Callum didn't stay behind he wanted to help her and he did a very good job. It is one of those books that keeps you interested all the way because you wanna know what happens. And that ending? in love !!
August 27, 2025
All of the characters in the first half of this book might as well have been middle schoolers. I just could not get past Fran's obsession - it was not a cute quirk - and the supporting characters in the book gave advice that I feel like I would have gotten from my friends back in grade school.
July 22, 2025
I loved Insta Connection by Jen Atkinson and I found myself comparing it to this one even though it was nothing alike… maybe because this one involved a soccer player, I dunno. I liked Callum, but just wasn’t connecting to Fran at all and I found myself kind of skimming around. I wasn’t super interested in the overall concept/plot. I did like Cal’s friends though so I’m sure I’ll continue the series.
August 5, 2025
I love a good romcom, but not as much as our main character Fran does. Fran likes romcoms so much that she can't go on dates without having to do a romcom remake. Basically, she plans out her date with her handsome stranger and tries to stage a remake. Little do these men know what's happening except that their date is weird and they are OUT! That's okay though because there are plenty of romcom remakes to go around. Then one night after a particularly frustrating date Fran is standing outside and a total stranger comes up to her and kisses her. She doesn't know what to make of it. She knows it was a good kiss. She knows he was cute but she doesn't even know his name. That is quickly resolved the next day when they run into each other at her best friends elementary school while she's doing a paper and he's doing community service. She learns he's a soccer player and his name is Callum. She's swooning but he isn't looking for love AT ALL. He wants to be friends. UGH....
This was a hilarious, mess of so much goodness. I couldn't stop myself from smiling. I dare someone to read this and not crack a smile. I really liked the backstory about Fran and Callum's families. It really showed why each were the way they were on love. All the extra characters were great too. Callum's whole team were so funny and treated each other like family. I felt so attached to everyone in this story that when it ended I felt myself wondering what would happen to all of them, not just the main ones. What a great testament to the authors writing style.
This was a hilarious, mess of so much goodness. I couldn't stop myself from smiling. I dare someone to read this and not crack a smile. I really liked the backstory about Fran and Callum's families. It really showed why each were the way they were on love. All the extra characters were great too. Callum's whole team were so funny and treated each other like family. I felt so attached to everyone in this story that when it ended I felt myself wondering what would happen to all of them, not just the main ones. What a great testament to the authors writing style.
July 10, 2025
So adorably swoony!!
Fran Fairchild is convinced she will find her happily ever after by remaking scenes from popular romcom movies. She is not going to give up, despite most of her remakes with dates going spectacularly wrong. But when a handsome stranger kisses her in a karoke bar, Fran may just be walking into her own real life romcom.
Callum didn't plan to kiss Fran or for her to become his lucky charm to turning around his luck on the soccer field. He is certainly not looking for love after his last toxic relationship, but as his friendship with Fran begins to turn into something more, he realizes that maybe he shouldn't have already written off love. Or at least Fran.
What you'll love:
strangers to friends to lovers
dual pov
soccer player MMC
quirky, hopeless romantic FMC
opposites attract
the lucky charm
romcom movie references
unforgettable meet cute
Callum's teammates
that first (and second) kiss!!
cute nicknames
found family
perfect ending!
This utterly charming rom-com was a delightful blend of everything I love! From its endearing characters and soccer backdrop to the playful chemistry and nostalgic 90s rom-com references, it hit all the right notes for me!
Fran, with her unique and quirky personality, was an endearing character that constantly surprised me! I enjoyed watching her journey as she learned that love defies planning and equations. The chemistry between Fran and Callum was almost tangible, both as friends and as they began to explore a deeper relationship. Their "practice dates" and bucket lists created a treasure trove of so many adorable moments leading to their own happily ever after!
Beyond the sweet and adorable moments, the story offered a touch of depth that grounded the characters' actions and backstories and heightened my enjoyment of the story. Loved every bit of this one! This romcom is an absolute must-read for anyone who enjoys swoon-worthy romance without the spice!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Fran Fairchild is convinced she will find her happily ever after by remaking scenes from popular romcom movies. She is not going to give up, despite most of her remakes with dates going spectacularly wrong. But when a handsome stranger kisses her in a karoke bar, Fran may just be walking into her own real life romcom.
Callum didn't plan to kiss Fran or for her to become his lucky charm to turning around his luck on the soccer field. He is certainly not looking for love after his last toxic relationship, but as his friendship with Fran begins to turn into something more, he realizes that maybe he shouldn't have already written off love. Or at least Fran.
What you'll love:
strangers to friends to lovers
dual pov
soccer player MMC
quirky, hopeless romantic FMC
opposites attract
the lucky charm
romcom movie references
unforgettable meet cute
Callum's teammates
that first (and second) kiss!!
cute nicknames
found family
perfect ending!
This utterly charming rom-com was a delightful blend of everything I love! From its endearing characters and soccer backdrop to the playful chemistry and nostalgic 90s rom-com references, it hit all the right notes for me!
Fran, with her unique and quirky personality, was an endearing character that constantly surprised me! I enjoyed watching her journey as she learned that love defies planning and equations. The chemistry between Fran and Callum was almost tangible, both as friends and as they began to explore a deeper relationship. Their "practice dates" and bucket lists created a treasure trove of so many adorable moments leading to their own happily ever after!
Beyond the sweet and adorable moments, the story offered a touch of depth that grounded the characters' actions and backstories and heightened my enjoyment of the story. Loved every bit of this one! This romcom is an absolute must-read for anyone who enjoys swoon-worthy romance without the spice!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
July 8, 2025
“I’m not looking for a Cary Grant or Ryan Gosling, just a good human. A storybook romance. Someone who will complete me in every possible way and make me happy. Someone I can love and bring joy to in return. Is that too much to ask for?”
This is the first in a new series from Jen that spins off from Alice Taylor is More than a Princess. It puts us in the Reno Tesaro with the Red Tails a few years after it’s established.
“We just went from Grease 2 to Jerry Maguire people.”
Fran believes in love and that anyone can have it, as long as she makes every romcom scene with her dates. Callum is the captain of the soccer team, and is in a really bad slump. Their meet cute…kiss a stranger on a dare.
“Somehow, I felt like I was being seen, like I was saving him, and only I could save him.”
I love that Fran is quirky, naive, learning about herself and recognizes that she’s not where everyone else her age is at in life. I love that Callum‘s team members think that she’s a lucky charm and basically force his hands. Callums has been in a funk and they think this will get him out of it. Hilarity and emotions ensue!
“We are not in a romcom. I am not her happily ever after, but she’s looking at me like I might be.”
Both MC’s are adorable and equally in denial about different things, but they both agree that those kisses are good luck. I can’t wait to read more about the Red Tails team…Zev. ;)
“I’m not pretending – I’m supporting myself with a girl that makes me feel like me. That’s all there is to it.”
Highlights
Rosalee
First Kiss
Luca..manchild
Lester(my sweet dads name)
Zev
Remakes Gone Wrong
Unplanned Remakes
His Mom
The Marsh
Watching the Romcoms
“They take risks all the time in love stories. They’re always putting themselves out there, being vulnerable, experiencing new things. Regardless of the chance for embarrassment or humiliation. because Love is worth the risk.”
This is the first in a new series from Jen that spins off from Alice Taylor is More than a Princess. It puts us in the Reno Tesaro with the Red Tails a few years after it’s established.
“We just went from Grease 2 to Jerry Maguire people.”
Fran believes in love and that anyone can have it, as long as she makes every romcom scene with her dates. Callum is the captain of the soccer team, and is in a really bad slump. Their meet cute…kiss a stranger on a dare.
“Somehow, I felt like I was being seen, like I was saving him, and only I could save him.”
I love that Fran is quirky, naive, learning about herself and recognizes that she’s not where everyone else her age is at in life. I love that Callum‘s team members think that she’s a lucky charm and basically force his hands. Callums has been in a funk and they think this will get him out of it. Hilarity and emotions ensue!
“We are not in a romcom. I am not her happily ever after, but she’s looking at me like I might be.”
Both MC’s are adorable and equally in denial about different things, but they both agree that those kisses are good luck. I can’t wait to read more about the Red Tails team…Zev. ;)
“I’m not pretending – I’m supporting myself with a girl that makes me feel like me. That’s all there is to it.”
Highlights
Rosalee
First Kiss
Luca..manchild
Lester(my sweet dads name)
Zev
Remakes Gone Wrong
Unplanned Remakes
His Mom
The Marsh
Watching the Romcoms
“They take risks all the time in love stories. They’re always putting themselves out there, being vulnerable, experiencing new things. Regardless of the chance for embarrassment or humiliation. because Love is worth the risk.”
July 18, 2025
"You're making this friend thing difficult."
This is such a fun story, where a quirky waitress determined to find love by remaking her favorite romance movie scenes meets a caring professional soccer player who has sworn off love. It's an absolute delight to read. This book is filled with swoony moments, laugh out loud quips, and lovable characters.
I had a bit of a hard time getting behind Fran's theory, but I loved the heart behind it and experiencing so many favorite romcoms along with her. Callum is an absolute gem of a human. He is genuinely kind and compassionate, and I could not get enough of the sweet friendship he builds with Fran (even if I wanted him to bend from his anti-love stance a little sooner 😉). I also love the relationships he has with his family and his teammates and how quickly Fran integrated with all of them.
If you're hoping for a throwback to your favorite 90s and 00s romcom movies in book form, look no further!
More to Love:
🎬 The meet-kiss
⚽ Good luck charm
🎬 Girl power tattoo
⚽ The fridge kiss (cold, but somehow also very hot)
🎬 Protective best friend
⚽ "Lean, look, touch."
🎬 Pride & Prejudice movie night
✨ Some Favorite Quotes ✨
"I hold out my arms like the gift that I am - because I am delightful, people. Utterly, freaking delightful."
"Sending good vibes to your booty."
"Like a magnetic pull, I walk toward her. I suddenly understand the saying moth to a flame with full clarity."
"We. Are. Friends."
"Fran Fairchild, you have bewitched me into doing things I'd never normally do. You've taken away my sanity, my reasoning, and possibly my self-control."
"I'm pretty sure Fran Fairchild has bewitched me body and soul."
"I don't want a lucky charm...I just want you."
Content:
💕: kissing
⚠️: past unloving family environment, minor accident
4.5/5 ❤️
This is such a fun story, where a quirky waitress determined to find love by remaking her favorite romance movie scenes meets a caring professional soccer player who has sworn off love. It's an absolute delight to read. This book is filled with swoony moments, laugh out loud quips, and lovable characters.
I had a bit of a hard time getting behind Fran's theory, but I loved the heart behind it and experiencing so many favorite romcoms along with her. Callum is an absolute gem of a human. He is genuinely kind and compassionate, and I could not get enough of the sweet friendship he builds with Fran (even if I wanted him to bend from his anti-love stance a little sooner 😉). I also love the relationships he has with his family and his teammates and how quickly Fran integrated with all of them.
If you're hoping for a throwback to your favorite 90s and 00s romcom movies in book form, look no further!
More to Love:
🎬 The meet-kiss
⚽ Good luck charm
🎬 Girl power tattoo
⚽ The fridge kiss (cold, but somehow also very hot)
🎬 Protective best friend
⚽ "Lean, look, touch."
🎬 Pride & Prejudice movie night
✨ Some Favorite Quotes ✨
"I hold out my arms like the gift that I am - because I am delightful, people. Utterly, freaking delightful."
"Sending good vibes to your booty."
"Like a magnetic pull, I walk toward her. I suddenly understand the saying moth to a flame with full clarity."
"We. Are. Friends."
"Fran Fairchild, you have bewitched me into doing things I'd never normally do. You've taken away my sanity, my reasoning, and possibly my self-control."
"I'm pretty sure Fran Fairchild has bewitched me body and soul."
"I don't want a lucky charm...I just want you."
Content:
💕: kissing
⚠️: past unloving family environment, minor accident
4.5/5 ❤️
July 23, 2025
I am a HUGE fan of romantic comedies (enough so that I’ve put together 2 “movies” of my favorite kissing scenes from my favorite romcoms) so, I was ecstatic when I found out that Fran Fairchild, our sweet and quirky main character was obsessed with romcoms. She believes in the magical kind of love found in romcoms and is determined to find her happily ever after by recreating those romcom movie moments. Callum Whitaker is a professional soccer player who after a toxic relationship swears love is not for him and isn’t looking for romance. After a dare from his teammates, Callum and Fran have the BEST meet cute ever! Fran sets to prove that even Callum needs love, and Callum believes Fran is his lucky charm. These two are just adorable and just might find what they need in each other!
The Romcom Remake is a delightful romcom with authentic and endearing characters. I loved how much Fran believes in love and she is going to prove her theory to everyone, including Callum. Callum just can’t stop kissing Fran, and I found it cute that he doesn’t think that is going to affect him. I love how, although he doesn’t believe in love, he helps her with her romcom remakes. They are so supportive of each other and have such a natural relationship blossom through just spending time together. I also really enjoyed Callum’s fellow teammates and adored Fran’s roommate, Rosalie!
If you love romcom movies and moments that will make you laugh out loud, The Romcom Remake is definitely one for you!
My favorite things:
= First kiss meet cute
- Classroom Q & A
- The nicknames
- Fishing scene
- Random act of kindness
- Murder In the Dark
- The soiree
- All the romcom remakes!
Tropes:
- Sports romance
- Best meet cute
- Romcom vibes
- Swoony kisses
- Practice dating
- Found family
- Opposites attract
- Strangers to friends to more
Happy reading!
The Romcom Remake is a delightful romcom with authentic and endearing characters. I loved how much Fran believes in love and she is going to prove her theory to everyone, including Callum. Callum just can’t stop kissing Fran, and I found it cute that he doesn’t think that is going to affect him. I love how, although he doesn’t believe in love, he helps her with her romcom remakes. They are so supportive of each other and have such a natural relationship blossom through just spending time together. I also really enjoyed Callum’s fellow teammates and adored Fran’s roommate, Rosalie!
If you love romcom movies and moments that will make you laugh out loud, The Romcom Remake is definitely one for you!
My favorite things:
= First kiss meet cute
- Classroom Q & A
- The nicknames
- Fishing scene
- Random act of kindness
- Murder In the Dark
- The soiree
- All the romcom remakes!
Tropes:
- Sports romance
- Best meet cute
- Romcom vibes
- Swoony kisses
- Practice dating
- Found family
- Opposites attract
- Strangers to friends to more
Happy reading!
August 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Callum Whitaker, captain of the Red Tails (minor league soccer team), has been off his game since his recent breakup. A night out of team bonding lands him an unexpected kiss with a stranger (Fran Fairchild). After his game drastically improves after the kiss, he and Fran make a pact. She agrees to be his lucky charm in exchange for his help proving romcoms are the secret recipe for finding/ falling in love. But when their pact begins to blur the lines of their friendship they must decide where they see their relationship going.
The RomCom Remake by Jen Atkinson is an ideal series starter. She does a great job setting the stage by introducing key players of the Red Tails (Zev, Lucca, etc.). While the single men on the team are minor characters in this book, I am already so excited to see their love stories play out in the upcoming books.
As a romantic and fan of romcoms, I enjoyed my time with this book. Atkinson produced a feel-good, faced-paced read that had me smiling the entire time. I loved seeing some of my all-time favorite movies mentioned throughout the story. I just wish I would have compiled a list of movies for the ultimate romcom movie marathon.
Thankfully the heart-warming moments don’t stop with Fran and Callum. The scenes featuring Rosaline (Fran’s best friend) and the Whitaker family were some of my favorites. They reinforced that found family can fill a much needed hole in someone’s life.
Be sure to read this book if you enjoy:
-sports romances (soccer)
-opposites attract (love obsessed vs love skeptic)
- tons of romcom references
-Dual POVs (Fran/ Callum)
-hunky, cinnamon roll MMC
-quirks, adorable FMC
-clean romances (kisses only)
Special thanks to Jen Atkinson for gifting me an e-ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Callum Whitaker, captain of the Red Tails (minor league soccer team), has been off his game since his recent breakup. A night out of team bonding lands him an unexpected kiss with a stranger (Fran Fairchild). After his game drastically improves after the kiss, he and Fran make a pact. She agrees to be his lucky charm in exchange for his help proving romcoms are the secret recipe for finding/ falling in love. But when their pact begins to blur the lines of their friendship they must decide where they see their relationship going.
The RomCom Remake by Jen Atkinson is an ideal series starter. She does a great job setting the stage by introducing key players of the Red Tails (Zev, Lucca, etc.). While the single men on the team are minor characters in this book, I am already so excited to see their love stories play out in the upcoming books.
As a romantic and fan of romcoms, I enjoyed my time with this book. Atkinson produced a feel-good, faced-paced read that had me smiling the entire time. I loved seeing some of my all-time favorite movies mentioned throughout the story. I just wish I would have compiled a list of movies for the ultimate romcom movie marathon.
Thankfully the heart-warming moments don’t stop with Fran and Callum. The scenes featuring Rosaline (Fran’s best friend) and the Whitaker family were some of my favorites. They reinforced that found family can fill a much needed hole in someone’s life.
Be sure to read this book if you enjoy:
-sports romances (soccer)
-opposites attract (love obsessed vs love skeptic)
- tons of romcom references
-Dual POVs (Fran/ Callum)
-hunky, cinnamon roll MMC
-quirks, adorable FMC
-clean romances (kisses only)
Special thanks to Jen Atkinson for gifting me an e-ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 11, 2025
The Romcom Remake is a super adorable sweet romantic comedy about a woman (Fran) who loves creating the scenes of her favorite romance movies (She believes in love and the power of a romcom moment), and Cal, a minor league soccer player who has sworn off love and lost his game.
This is my first Jen Atkinson book and I can truly say that after this I'm definitely a fan. As soon as I finish here I will be hitting the net to add her other books to my ever growing TBR (I’ve heard fantastic things about her Another Bailey Brother series).
I’ll admit, I was a little unsure about Fran after that first chapter (hilarious though it was), but it didn’t take long for me to turn that impression around. I ended up really loving her character. She was a bit awkward, but at the same time, so sure of herself and confident. As a fellow awkward soul, I appreciate this more that you can know. Cal was super sweet and the friendship that grew between these two was so beautiful. His interactions with his family, by text and in person, made me smile. I love a fun close knit family. Even the side characters were wonderfully done. Is it weird if I say that Lucca was my favorite? Never a dull moment with that one and I’m here for his antics! Fingers crossed he gets his own book!
This story was adorable (I know I already said this, but it’s worth saying a second or even third time) and well written with a good amount of humor mixed in. I was grinning from ear to ear for practically the entire book. I may have “awe-ed” multiple times too. I also enjoyed the message the book relays, that it doesn’t matter what we do or how we do it, only who we do it with.
I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts.
This is my first Jen Atkinson book and I can truly say that after this I'm definitely a fan. As soon as I finish here I will be hitting the net to add her other books to my ever growing TBR (I’ve heard fantastic things about her Another Bailey Brother series).
I’ll admit, I was a little unsure about Fran after that first chapter (hilarious though it was), but it didn’t take long for me to turn that impression around. I ended up really loving her character. She was a bit awkward, but at the same time, so sure of herself and confident. As a fellow awkward soul, I appreciate this more that you can know. Cal was super sweet and the friendship that grew between these two was so beautiful. His interactions with his family, by text and in person, made me smile. I love a fun close knit family. Even the side characters were wonderfully done. Is it weird if I say that Lucca was my favorite? Never a dull moment with that one and I’m here for his antics! Fingers crossed he gets his own book!
This story was adorable (I know I already said this, but it’s worth saying a second or even third time) and well written with a good amount of humor mixed in. I was grinning from ear to ear for practically the entire book. I may have “awe-ed” multiple times too. I also enjoyed the message the book relays, that it doesn’t matter what we do or how we do it, only who we do it with.
I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts.
July 15, 2025
You know those books that you just fall in love with right off the bat? The ones that have you both sighing with satisfaction on the last page and also a little heartbroken that it has to end? This book is one of those for me. I was simply giddy the whole time I was reading it.
I stinkin love Fran. She's so sweet and quirky, and her outlook on life and love is the most endearing. I love how committed she is to her theory and plans, no matter how goofy or embarrassing they may seem to other people. She's bold and unashamed, and that makes her a phenomenal FMC that I wanted to claim as my best friend. Then, there's Callum, who's kind and supportive, and so very lovable despite his opinion that love just isn't for him. I appreciate that he's not really negative or anti-love, he even makes a point of helping Fran on her quest for love, he's just trying to avoid past mistakes by avoiding love for himself. Of course he doesn't stand a chance against Fran and her plans for him, though.
I also adore the side characters. Rosalie is the perfect best friend to Fran, and Callum's teammates (Zev in particular) are simply the best. And Callum's family and his closeness to them is lovely and so realistic, the sibling banter was top-notch.
I am so excited for the rest of this series! I definitely have high hopes for which teammates will be getting books of their own and I'm super eager to know which of those hopes will come to be. Plus, soccer is my favorite sport, so I'm also just stoked for a soccer romcom series since it's sadly not all that common in the sports romance genre.
Thank you so much, Jen, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. This may have become my new favorite of your books that I've read! All opinions are my own.
I stinkin love Fran. She's so sweet and quirky, and her outlook on life and love is the most endearing. I love how committed she is to her theory and plans, no matter how goofy or embarrassing they may seem to other people. She's bold and unashamed, and that makes her a phenomenal FMC that I wanted to claim as my best friend. Then, there's Callum, who's kind and supportive, and so very lovable despite his opinion that love just isn't for him. I appreciate that he's not really negative or anti-love, he even makes a point of helping Fran on her quest for love, he's just trying to avoid past mistakes by avoiding love for himself. Of course he doesn't stand a chance against Fran and her plans for him, though.
I also adore the side characters. Rosalie is the perfect best friend to Fran, and Callum's teammates (Zev in particular) are simply the best. And Callum's family and his closeness to them is lovely and so realistic, the sibling banter was top-notch.
I am so excited for the rest of this series! I definitely have high hopes for which teammates will be getting books of their own and I'm super eager to know which of those hopes will come to be. Plus, soccer is my favorite sport, so I'm also just stoked for a soccer romcom series since it's sadly not all that common in the sports romance genre.
Thank you so much, Jen, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. This may have become my new favorite of your books that I've read! All opinions are my own.
July 20, 2025
Fran Fairchild uses all of her dates to act out her favorite romantic comedy movies. She says she is doing it for research. Fran believes in true love with all of her sweet heart and soul.
Soccer player Callum Whitaker is the polar opposite. He does not believe in true love, mostly due to a bad burn from a recent breakup. So one has to wonder what makes him kiss a strange woman (Fran) in order to save her from further humiliation? Shocking and extremely swoony do not even begin to describe this first encounter between two very unlikely people to ever cross paths. One lives with their head in the clouds, and the other lives with their head in the sand where nothing can hurt them. One is naive and one is worldly. They are complete opposites, or are they?
This journey of love and some self-discovery was magical and delightful. The movie references were the cherry on top for this movie aficionado. The main characters and side characters were charming, engaging and quite funny.
One of my favorite scenes is when Rosalie is threatening Callum within an inch of his life if he hurts Fran. The tattoos, climbing a fence or flying off of a fence had me snickering. Poor Fran does not have one athletic bone in her body.
When I learned Fran's backstory, I wanted to cry. This young woman just wanted to prove that true love does exist, if we only allow it.
The banter, the quirky characters, Callum's family and his teammates are just a few things that made this book hilarious and add up to a winning combo of all of the great things that make a romantic comedy worth reading.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Soccer player Callum Whitaker is the polar opposite. He does not believe in true love, mostly due to a bad burn from a recent breakup. So one has to wonder what makes him kiss a strange woman (Fran) in order to save her from further humiliation? Shocking and extremely swoony do not even begin to describe this first encounter between two very unlikely people to ever cross paths. One lives with their head in the clouds, and the other lives with their head in the sand where nothing can hurt them. One is naive and one is worldly. They are complete opposites, or are they?
This journey of love and some self-discovery was magical and delightful. The movie references were the cherry on top for this movie aficionado. The main characters and side characters were charming, engaging and quite funny.
One of my favorite scenes is when Rosalie is threatening Callum within an inch of his life if he hurts Fran. The tattoos, climbing a fence or flying off of a fence had me snickering. Poor Fran does not have one athletic bone in her body.
When I learned Fran's backstory, I wanted to cry. This young woman just wanted to prove that true love does exist, if we only allow it.
The banter, the quirky characters, Callum's family and his teammates are just a few things that made this book hilarious and add up to a winning combo of all of the great things that make a romantic comedy worth reading.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 11, 2025
So good! Laugh out loud genius! Lighthearted and fun loving! Love @authorjenatkinson writing, plotting and humor. Thanks for bringing this into the world!
Book Description: She’s plotting a romcom. He’s playing without a game plan.
But sometimes the best love stories are the ones that don’t follow the script.
Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance?
Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after.
True love is out there. It’s real. And Fran won’t be leaving without it.
But so far, her romcom remakes have been one epic fail after another.
Until one unexpected kiss from a handsome stranger saves her from public humiliation—
Callum Whitaker–professional soccer player and certified romance skeptic–didn’t plan to kiss Fran. Or to spiral into a six-month goal drought. Let’s just say the universe isn’t playing fair.
After a toxic relationship, Callum has decided that love isn’t part of his agenda… while scoring goals on the field is. Only the more he focuses on his game–the worse it gets.
Until Fran.
Yep, quirky, cute little Fran–who Callum is determined NOT to fall for–just might be his lucky charm. That kiss and her schemes are changing his game.
But Fran’s got more than luck on her side–she’s on a mission: Convince Callum that love is not the enemy. And somehow, it’s working. Bit by bit, he’s realizing he does need love in his life.
Or maybe he just needs Fran.
The RomCom Remake is a laugh-out-loud, closed door romcom. Expect swoony kisses, cackle-inducing moments, heart-thumping heroes, and one adorable, hopeless, romcom remaking heroine. And ZERO explicit scenes!
Book Description: She’s plotting a romcom. He’s playing without a game plan.
But sometimes the best love stories are the ones that don’t follow the script.
Is it too much to ask for a romcom-level romance?
Fran Fairchild doesn’t think so.
After growing up in a loveless home, she is determined to script her own happily-ever-after.
True love is out there. It’s real. And Fran won’t be leaving without it.
But so far, her romcom remakes have been one epic fail after another.
Until one unexpected kiss from a handsome stranger saves her from public humiliation—
Callum Whitaker–professional soccer player and certified romance skeptic–didn’t plan to kiss Fran. Or to spiral into a six-month goal drought. Let’s just say the universe isn’t playing fair.
After a toxic relationship, Callum has decided that love isn’t part of his agenda… while scoring goals on the field is. Only the more he focuses on his game–the worse it gets.
Until Fran.
Yep, quirky, cute little Fran–who Callum is determined NOT to fall for–just might be his lucky charm. That kiss and her schemes are changing his game.
But Fran’s got more than luck on her side–she’s on a mission: Convince Callum that love is not the enemy. And somehow, it’s working. Bit by bit, he’s realizing he does need love in his life.
Or maybe he just needs Fran.
The RomCom Remake is a laugh-out-loud, closed door romcom. Expect swoony kisses, cackle-inducing moments, heart-thumping heroes, and one adorable, hopeless, romcom remaking heroine. And ZERO explicit scenes!
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