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Only Friends
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Expected 10 Feb 26Win a free print copy of this book!
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100 copies available
U.S. only
Fans of The Regency Vows and For the Love of Austen series will adore this sexy and charming rom-com debut about an aspiring screenwriter and a gorgeous model teaming up to create regency era thirst content for online fans.
After being fired from her day job, unceremoniously ghosted, and facing a bad case of writer’s block, twenty-six-year-old aspiring screenwriter Mariel Rivera is one spilled coffee away from crying on the subway. When she’s rescued from a Times Square kerfuffle by a very handsome model dressed in regency costume, Mariel has no idea her life is about to change.
Dashwood Bennet has been modeling for years, though recently, his current portfolio includes some more risqué shots. However, he never imagined that after his encounter with Mariel, he’d be putting on his regency breeches just to take them off again…in front of the camera.
Dash is the answer to Mariel’s prayers in more ways than one. First, he saved her from an unruly mob. Second, he’s the perfect person to play the Duke of Harding, a character she’s created that captured her attention and won’t let go. Third, he’s more than game to be the face of her spicy historical shorts. And last but not least, he’s her perfect partner both in business and in the bedroom. But being work-partners-with-benefits can complicate things. Will their partnership survive or are Mariel and Dash doomed to not have their happily ever after?
After being fired from her day job, unceremoniously ghosted, and facing a bad case of writer’s block, twenty-six-year-old aspiring screenwriter Mariel Rivera is one spilled coffee away from crying on the subway. When she’s rescued from a Times Square kerfuffle by a very handsome model dressed in regency costume, Mariel has no idea her life is about to change.
Dashwood Bennet has been modeling for years, though recently, his current portfolio includes some more risqué shots. However, he never imagined that after his encounter with Mariel, he’d be putting on his regency breeches just to take them off again…in front of the camera.
Dash is the answer to Mariel’s prayers in more ways than one. First, he saved her from an unruly mob. Second, he’s the perfect person to play the Duke of Harding, a character she’s created that captured her attention and won’t let go. Third, he’s more than game to be the face of her spicy historical shorts. And last but not least, he’s her perfect partner both in business and in the bedroom. But being work-partners-with-benefits can complicate things. Will their partnership survive or are Mariel and Dash doomed to not have their happily ever after?
288 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 10, 2026
8087 people want to read
About the author
Lydia San Andres
23 books100 followersLydia San Andres (She/Her) lives and writes in the tropics, where she can be found reading, sipping coffee, and making excuses to stay out of the sun. As much as she enjoys air conditioning, she can sometimes be lured outside with the promise of cookies and picnics.
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July 14, 2025things i enjoyed:
the premise! struggling screen-writer teams up with social media thirst trap influencer to create a sexy regency Duke character.
Casually queer. Dash is bisexual, not at all a part of the plot besides he is. Other queer characters and characters of color yay!
setting in NYC, loved how we get to fall in love with the city and its people along with the characters, neither of whom lived there until they were adults.
amazing, punchy start that grabbed my interest.
the not so great:
the punchy start petered out for me as Dash and Mariel were having a great, horny buildup to banging, but once they did bang we got everything BUT the penetration, which felt anti-climatic especially for the premise, and then the rest of the book was mostly implied/fade to black.
Also, the discussion of Dash's sex work on OnlyFans felt, superficial at best. It was never really described as more than thirst trapping, but I'm assuming it was more than that? I wish this nuance was explored a bit more as Dash expresses discontent with previous partners who were ashamed of his work. I was pleased Mariel had no issues or qualms, but the way it was written made it seem more like simple tiktok thirst traps than for example the sex worker in Caught Up by Navessa Allen. I was also confused that this site was called a real world name while the other ones used were made up.
the premise! struggling screen-writer teams up with social media thirst trap influencer to create a sexy regency Duke character.
Casually queer. Dash is bisexual, not at all a part of the plot besides he is. Other queer characters and characters of color yay!
setting in NYC, loved how we get to fall in love with the city and its people along with the characters, neither of whom lived there until they were adults.
amazing, punchy start that grabbed my interest.
the not so great:
the punchy start petered out for me as Dash and Mariel were having a great, horny buildup to banging, but once they did bang we got everything BUT the penetration, which felt anti-climatic especially for the premise, and then the rest of the book was mostly implied/fade to black.
Also, the discussion of Dash's sex work on OnlyFans felt, superficial at best. It was never really described as more than thirst trapping, but I'm assuming it was more than that? I wish this nuance was explored a bit more as Dash expresses discontent with previous partners who were ashamed of his work. I was pleased Mariel had no issues or qualms, but the way it was written made it seem more like simple tiktok thirst traps than for example the sex worker in Caught Up by Navessa Allen. I was also confused that this site was called a real world name while the other ones used were made up.
September 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this novel.
Only Friends is a novel about self-love, self-respect, and being kind to yourself. This novel follows Mariel as she works to learn how to believe that she is worthy of friends, family, compassion, a career she enjoys, and most of all - love. Enter Dash, the perfect regency 'duke' to help her along the way, and a few new bookish friends too. If you like a cute, hipster romance, then this is for you. There is also LGBT+ representation that is wonderfully done, and it's nice to see LGBT+ characters written as actual people, not as how the writer believes them to behave.
Unfortunately, I did have some trouble relating to Mariel and Dash, and I think that is because I don't live in a place like NYC. This novel felt like the characters were really written a certain way because of the setting, but if the setting had been elsewhere it probably would've been a whole different novel. While I do understand the part the setting plays in a novel, I think it's also important to remember that all readers are not from places like where the novel is set, and it might be a good idea to include things for us to grab onto in the writing.
Only Friends is a novel about self-love, self-respect, and being kind to yourself. This novel follows Mariel as she works to learn how to believe that she is worthy of friends, family, compassion, a career she enjoys, and most of all - love. Enter Dash, the perfect regency 'duke' to help her along the way, and a few new bookish friends too. If you like a cute, hipster romance, then this is for you. There is also LGBT+ representation that is wonderfully done, and it's nice to see LGBT+ characters written as actual people, not as how the writer believes them to behave.
Unfortunately, I did have some trouble relating to Mariel and Dash, and I think that is because I don't live in a place like NYC. This novel felt like the characters were really written a certain way because of the setting, but if the setting had been elsewhere it probably would've been a whole different novel. While I do understand the part the setting plays in a novel, I think it's also important to remember that all readers are not from places like where the novel is set, and it might be a good idea to include things for us to grab onto in the writing.
2026
October 21, 2025Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Primero Sueno Press
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Primero Sueno Press
September 25, 2025
I really loved the general idea of Only Friends, but I had a hard time actually relating to the characters. It’s a relatively short book, so that’s kind of to be expected though.
There were lots of really cute moments that I thoroughly enjoyed too. In general, if you’re looking for a quick fun read, it will definitely get the job done.
There were lots of really cute moments that I thoroughly enjoyed too. In general, if you’re looking for a quick fun read, it will definitely get the job done.
January 6, 2026
I enjoyed this book! If you like a man who knows how to weild his words, this is for you!
Dash was a dreamy, devilish duke who reminded me why I loved reading historical romance. I wish their whole project was real because boy would I eat that up. He was so kind and thoughtful, and definitely more patient that I ever will be.
I enjoyed the pacing of this book!! I also felt like the side characters were pretty well developed, and would love to read a book about them.
There were a few things that held me back from loving it. First, I didn’t love the amount of pop culture references. It’s not a bad thing, just not something I enjoy!
Second, I feel like Mariel was a touch toxic at points in this book. I understand that she was dealing with her own trauma, but I still don’t feel like it was properly addressed. She did a lot of things that were just generally bad things to do to someone, and Dash, ever the gentleman, was too quick to let it slide. There’s nuance there, and of course it’s a more complex issue than I am making it sound, but it was something I couldn’t get out of my mind reading this book.
Overall, this was a good book with just a couple quirks that kept it from being a 5 star read for me!
A huge thank you to Primero Sueno Press for the early review copy!!
Dash was a dreamy, devilish duke who reminded me why I loved reading historical romance. I wish their whole project was real because boy would I eat that up. He was so kind and thoughtful, and definitely more patient that I ever will be.
I enjoyed the pacing of this book!! I also felt like the side characters were pretty well developed, and would love to read a book about them.
There were a few things that held me back from loving it. First, I didn’t love the amount of pop culture references. It’s not a bad thing, just not something I enjoy!
Second, I feel like Mariel was a touch toxic at points in this book. I understand that she was dealing with her own trauma, but I still don’t feel like it was properly addressed. She did a lot of things that were just generally bad things to do to someone, and Dash, ever the gentleman, was too quick to let it slide. There’s nuance there, and of course it’s a more complex issue than I am making it sound, but it was something I couldn’t get out of my mind reading this book.
Overall, this was a good book with just a couple quirks that kept it from being a 5 star read for me!
A huge thank you to Primero Sueno Press for the early review copy!!
July 30, 2025
Thank you for the ARC NetGalley!!
2.5 stars, rounded up!
Listen, based on the description of this book, I wasn’t expecting anything too serious or mind blowing. And, honestly, that’s why I requested an ARC. I was intrigued by the premise of it. It’s not something I’ve ever seen in a book before and I figured that even if my suspicions were correct (that’s it not mind blowing) it would still be a fun read. And, I mean, it sort of was?
It was silly and definitely had a unique concept, but I caught myself skimming the pages a few times. Not that it was boring, per se. It’s just that the plot was barely there. I mean, it stuck to what the description promised, but that’s about it. It almost read like the author had no outline and just started writing as she went along. Not that that made the book bad by any means. I just think it could have been a tad more structured. Despite being a short book, it felt like it went on forever.
I wasn’t big on either of the main characters, unfortunately. Mariel was very chaotic and she kept running away from her problems (which was mentioned A LOT—at least she’s self aware). She was OKAY, but not my favorite. As for Dash, he was also just OKAY. He was super sweet and a big cinnamon roll (also mentioned a lot), but sometimes it felt like a little too much. Like he had no flaws. And don’t get me wrong, I’m glad he wasn’t a terrible person, it’s just that he didn’t seem to have any regular ole flaws either (even his apartment was spotless).
So anyways, I think a lot of people will love this book, merely because it’s a fast read and not overly plot heavy. And I also think lots of people will love both of the main characters! There is definitely stuff to like in this book! I like how diverse the cast of characters is and, again, how unique the concept is. Unfortunately, I wasn’t overly invested in really anything that happened in it.
2.5 stars, rounded up!
Listen, based on the description of this book, I wasn’t expecting anything too serious or mind blowing. And, honestly, that’s why I requested an ARC. I was intrigued by the premise of it. It’s not something I’ve ever seen in a book before and I figured that even if my suspicions were correct (that’s it not mind blowing) it would still be a fun read. And, I mean, it sort of was?
It was silly and definitely had a unique concept, but I caught myself skimming the pages a few times. Not that it was boring, per se. It’s just that the plot was barely there. I mean, it stuck to what the description promised, but that’s about it. It almost read like the author had no outline and just started writing as she went along. Not that that made the book bad by any means. I just think it could have been a tad more structured. Despite being a short book, it felt like it went on forever.
I wasn’t big on either of the main characters, unfortunately. Mariel was very chaotic and she kept running away from her problems (which was mentioned A LOT—at least she’s self aware). She was OKAY, but not my favorite. As for Dash, he was also just OKAY. He was super sweet and a big cinnamon roll (also mentioned a lot), but sometimes it felt like a little too much. Like he had no flaws. And don’t get me wrong, I’m glad he wasn’t a terrible person, it’s just that he didn’t seem to have any regular ole flaws either (even his apartment was spotless).
So anyways, I think a lot of people will love this book, merely because it’s a fast read and not overly plot heavy. And I also think lots of people will love both of the main characters! There is definitely stuff to like in this book! I like how diverse the cast of characters is and, again, how unique the concept is. Unfortunately, I wasn’t overly invested in really anything that happened in it.
July 15, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
This was okay. It was a low angst, lighthearted rom com featuring a quirky manic pixie dream girl and a cinnamon roll hero. The premise was cute: an aspiring screenwriter and a model team up to create content in order to make money so that she can pay rent while pursing her dream of writing a rom com. Is it far-fetched? Sure. I think I would have been more into it if I’d connected with the heroine more. She was your standard version quirky girl who doesn’t have her life together. There wasn’t anything inherently complex about her, which was a shame because there was a missed opportunity to really delve into her fear of abandonment and her relationship with her mother. All we get is surface level, and it wasn’t engaging enough for me to be invested in her journey.
The hero was a sweet and patient man, and I did really enjoy their flirty banter. While they had chemistry, it felt more like a platonic relationship. Once they got together the pace started to drag for me, especially given the push and pull from the heroine. Dash was an amazing and earnest guy, and I felt like he could do better than Mariel.
Overall, an interesting storyline, but the execution fell short for me.
This was okay. It was a low angst, lighthearted rom com featuring a quirky manic pixie dream girl and a cinnamon roll hero. The premise was cute: an aspiring screenwriter and a model team up to create content in order to make money so that she can pay rent while pursing her dream of writing a rom com. Is it far-fetched? Sure. I think I would have been more into it if I’d connected with the heroine more. She was your standard version quirky girl who doesn’t have her life together. There wasn’t anything inherently complex about her, which was a shame because there was a missed opportunity to really delve into her fear of abandonment and her relationship with her mother. All we get is surface level, and it wasn’t engaging enough for me to be invested in her journey.
The hero was a sweet and patient man, and I did really enjoy their flirty banter. While they had chemistry, it felt more like a platonic relationship. Once they got together the pace started to drag for me, especially given the push and pull from the heroine. Dash was an amazing and earnest guy, and I felt like he could do better than Mariel.
Overall, an interesting storyline, but the execution fell short for me.
November 28, 2025
Thank you to Primero Sueño Press for sending me a physical ARC of this book.
Only Friends follows aspiring screenwriter Mariel, our Latina main character, as she tries to figure out her life and passions in NYC after being fired from her job and going through a messy breakup. When she encounters the love interest, Dashwood (Dash), the two team up to create spicy regency/historical short form online content. What begins as a business partnership quickly becomes complicated when feelings and attraction get thrown into the mix.
This book might be good for you if you:
- Enjoy slow burns (and fade to black/closed door romances)
- Enjoy (sort of) workplace friends to lovers
- Don’t mind mentions of social media/pop culture in books
- Prefer books that give you a lot of description
*****
Overall, this book was a quick read, but I definitely enjoyed the first half more than the second half. In the first half, the book clearly establishes this quirky, semi-distraught, 20-something who is just trying to make it work in New York and an attractive, wholesome love interest. The book was really easy to get into and had an enjoyable and unique concept going for it while still bringing in familiar storylines and tropes.
By the midway point, though, I was struggling with the writing. There were too many similes (for my taste) and the overuse of the word “flail” was a little grating. Some points of the prose also felt like jokes were made with the reader in mind or like the main character was telling the story TO the reader rather than actively living it. Given that this dynamic wasn’t established from the beginning, it felt like the main character was breaking the fourth wall and took me out of the story every time. Funnily enough, I kept thinking this probably could have been interesting as a screenplay.
I found that throughout the book some descriptions were a little heavy-handed. At first, I interpreted this as a way to give some shape to the characters but when it continued happening through the end, it didn’t quite work for me because we already knew the characters. The description didn’t add anything to the story.
I believe there’s potential here but this didn’t feel quite polished enough to me. Regardless, I have no doubt that this book will find its audience! It’s a fun read worth giving a try if the premise sounds interesting.
Only Friends follows aspiring screenwriter Mariel, our Latina main character, as she tries to figure out her life and passions in NYC after being fired from her job and going through a messy breakup. When she encounters the love interest, Dashwood (Dash), the two team up to create spicy regency/historical short form online content. What begins as a business partnership quickly becomes complicated when feelings and attraction get thrown into the mix.
This book might be good for you if you:
- Enjoy slow burns (and fade to black/closed door romances)
- Enjoy (sort of) workplace friends to lovers
- Don’t mind mentions of social media/pop culture in books
- Prefer books that give you a lot of description
*****
Overall, this book was a quick read, but I definitely enjoyed the first half more than the second half. In the first half, the book clearly establishes this quirky, semi-distraught, 20-something who is just trying to make it work in New York and an attractive, wholesome love interest. The book was really easy to get into and had an enjoyable and unique concept going for it while still bringing in familiar storylines and tropes.
By the midway point, though, I was struggling with the writing. There were too many similes (for my taste) and the overuse of the word “flail” was a little grating. Some points of the prose also felt like jokes were made with the reader in mind or like the main character was telling the story TO the reader rather than actively living it. Given that this dynamic wasn’t established from the beginning, it felt like the main character was breaking the fourth wall and took me out of the story every time. Funnily enough, I kept thinking this probably could have been interesting as a screenplay.
I found that throughout the book some descriptions were a little heavy-handed. At first, I interpreted this as a way to give some shape to the characters but when it continued happening through the end, it didn’t quite work for me because we already knew the characters. The description didn’t add anything to the story.
I believe there’s potential here but this didn’t feel quite polished enough to me. Regardless, I have no doubt that this book will find its audience! It’s a fun read worth giving a try if the premise sounds interesting.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Primero Sueno Press for the ARC.
I had a delightful time with Only Friends. I was also under the impression for a very long time that this was some sort of time travel romance (a la Kate and Leopold), but it’s not. It’s very much rooted in a contemporary New York City, Hell’s Kitchen if we’re being specific.
It truly felt like San Andres had more room to breathe outside of the strictures of category romance, with it’s tight plotting and occasional penchant for bonkers-ness, or the novella, which strips a story back to just it’s essentials. Only Friends hit all the familiar and delightful beats of a 2000’s era rom-com, threaded with humor, vivid New York scenery, and realistically messy characters. Also, so many of these characters were queer and I was loving it. From our bisexual MMC Dashwood Bennet, aka the Duke of Harding, to the nonbinary bookshop owner Shiloh, or Mariel’s stalwart cousin Yaz. And dear sweet Mariel was a wonderfully messy FMC. Her whole: “Feelings?! You want to talk about FEELINGS?! [Running far away.]” Mariel, I’m with you. Get me out of that conversation as soon as possible. When it came to Dash and Mariel’s relationship, I liked that they both had to acknowledge where they made missteps and where they needed to compromise and grow.
As a reader who has also seen how the romance genre has become rather meta in its inclusion within the genre itself…you’ll either appreciate it or it will feel too heavy handed in Only Friends. For me, given just how integral it was to the plot and the characters, the meta romance angle felt like a sincere appreciation and nod to the strength of the romance reading community.
I had a delightful time with Only Friends. I was also under the impression for a very long time that this was some sort of time travel romance (a la Kate and Leopold), but it’s not. It’s very much rooted in a contemporary New York City, Hell’s Kitchen if we’re being specific.
It truly felt like San Andres had more room to breathe outside of the strictures of category romance, with it’s tight plotting and occasional penchant for bonkers-ness, or the novella, which strips a story back to just it’s essentials. Only Friends hit all the familiar and delightful beats of a 2000’s era rom-com, threaded with humor, vivid New York scenery, and realistically messy characters. Also, so many of these characters were queer and I was loving it. From our bisexual MMC Dashwood Bennet, aka the Duke of Harding, to the nonbinary bookshop owner Shiloh, or Mariel’s stalwart cousin Yaz. And dear sweet Mariel was a wonderfully messy FMC. Her whole: “Feelings?! You want to talk about FEELINGS?! [Running far away.]” Mariel, I’m with you. Get me out of that conversation as soon as possible. When it came to Dash and Mariel’s relationship, I liked that they both had to acknowledge where they made missteps and where they needed to compromise and grow.
As a reader who has also seen how the romance genre has become rather meta in its inclusion within the genre itself…you’ll either appreciate it or it will feel too heavy handed in Only Friends. For me, given just how integral it was to the plot and the characters, the meta romance angle felt like a sincere appreciation and nod to the strength of the romance reading community.
August 15, 2025
Out February 10th, 2026
If you’ve ever tried to convince yourself that “just friends” is a totally chill and sustainable arrangement—this story is here to lovingly laugh in your face. It’s a slow-burn romance wrapped in tropical breezes and emotional repression, where every glance and casual touch feels like it’s carrying the weight of a thousand unsaid things. The vibes? Immaculate. The tension? Enough to power a small island.
The characters are delightfully stubborn, emotionally tangled, and just self-aware enough to make their own lives complicated. Watching them navigate friendship while clearly pining is like watching two people try to build a sandcastle during high tide—messy, doomed, and weirdly satisfying. There’s banter, longing, and a whole lot of “oh no, they’re hot” energy that makes the pages fly by.
This is the kind of story that makes you want to text your best friend “just checking in” and then immediately delete it because feelings are terrifying. It’s romantic without being cheesy, funny without trying too hard, and full of heart. Basically, it’s a love letter to all the people who’ve ever said “we’re just friends” while secretly hoping for more.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Atria/Primero Sueno Press for this ARC!
If you’ve ever tried to convince yourself that “just friends” is a totally chill and sustainable arrangement—this story is here to lovingly laugh in your face. It’s a slow-burn romance wrapped in tropical breezes and emotional repression, where every glance and casual touch feels like it’s carrying the weight of a thousand unsaid things. The vibes? Immaculate. The tension? Enough to power a small island.
The characters are delightfully stubborn, emotionally tangled, and just self-aware enough to make their own lives complicated. Watching them navigate friendship while clearly pining is like watching two people try to build a sandcastle during high tide—messy, doomed, and weirdly satisfying. There’s banter, longing, and a whole lot of “oh no, they’re hot” energy that makes the pages fly by.
This is the kind of story that makes you want to text your best friend “just checking in” and then immediately delete it because feelings are terrifying. It’s romantic without being cheesy, funny without trying too hard, and full of heart. Basically, it’s a love letter to all the people who’ve ever said “we’re just friends” while secretly hoping for more.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Atria/Primero Sueno Press for this ARC!
July 24, 2025
I loved the premise of this book. A cosplayer/model/online sex worker meets by chance with an unemployed aspiring screenwriter. Sparks fly, and they engage in a whirlwind romance.
Mariel had a big Samantha-Irby-loveable-hot-mess vibe. Dash was the perfect foil to her with his attentiveness and devotion. That's not to say they both didn't have their own baggage to wrestle with and ultimately resolve. One thing that kind of bugged me was that while Mariel finally recognized what she was doing to Dash that picked open his old wounds (parading him around like a trophy) he didn't seem to realize he was doing the same wound-picking to her (ghosting her at the burlesque night). I also wish we could have learned a bit more about the outcome of Yaz, Mariel's cousin. I suspect she'll get her own book, but i felt like we didn't get much follow through other than a summary of what she planned to do after her own life imploded. She was such a major character at the start of the book and kind of fizzled out at the end.
Overall this was a great book and a solidly entertaining read.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
Mariel had a big Samantha-Irby-loveable-hot-mess vibe. Dash was the perfect foil to her with his attentiveness and devotion. That's not to say they both didn't have their own baggage to wrestle with and ultimately resolve. One thing that kind of bugged me was that while Mariel finally recognized what she was doing to Dash that picked open his old wounds (parading him around like a trophy) he didn't seem to realize he was doing the same wound-picking to her (ghosting her at the burlesque night). I also wish we could have learned a bit more about the outcome of Yaz, Mariel's cousin. I suspect she'll get her own book, but i felt like we didn't get much follow through other than a summary of what she planned to do after her own life imploded. She was such a major character at the start of the book and kind of fizzled out at the end.
Overall this was a great book and a solidly entertaining read.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
August 27, 2025
“The city may have its noise, but it’s in the quiet moments with you that I find peace.”
Tropes:
Opposites Attract
He Falls First
Slow Burn
Workplace Partners-to-Lovers
Second Chance at Passion/Career
Only Friends by Lydia San Andres is a fun, clever rom-com that blends Regency fantasy with the hustle of New York City. Mariel, an aspiring screenwriter at her wit's end, meets Dash, a gorgeous model who just might be the perfect Duke of Harding for her steamy historical romance project. As they team up to create online “thirst content” and bring her characters to life, their chemistry is undeniable—but so are the complications that come with mixing business and pleasure.
The character-driven romance made me feel connected to both Mariel and Dash, especially as they both try to redefine what they want out of life and love. As a fellow New Yorker, I couldn’t help but appreciate the way Lydia San Andres made the city come alive. The grit, the chaos, the hidden beauty—it’s all there.
Thank you, Atria Books and Lydia San Andres, for the ARC. This book is a must-read for fans of witty rom-coms with a touch of heat!
Tropes:
Opposites Attract
He Falls First
Slow Burn
Workplace Partners-to-Lovers
Second Chance at Passion/Career
Only Friends by Lydia San Andres is a fun, clever rom-com that blends Regency fantasy with the hustle of New York City. Mariel, an aspiring screenwriter at her wit's end, meets Dash, a gorgeous model who just might be the perfect Duke of Harding for her steamy historical romance project. As they team up to create online “thirst content” and bring her characters to life, their chemistry is undeniable—but so are the complications that come with mixing business and pleasure.
The character-driven romance made me feel connected to both Mariel and Dash, especially as they both try to redefine what they want out of life and love. As a fellow New Yorker, I couldn’t help but appreciate the way Lydia San Andres made the city come alive. The grit, the chaos, the hidden beauty—it’s all there.
Thank you, Atria Books and Lydia San Andres, for the ARC. This book is a must-read for fans of witty rom-coms with a touch of heat!
November 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
I was drawn into this book by the unique premise, I hadn't really read anything like this before and honestly my expectations were pretty low just because it seemed very light and fluffy and I was looking for something fast and fun. However I ended up really enjoying this, it was a quick and easy read and while there were a few bits that annoyed me (pop culture references, some cringe dialogue, chaotic and avoidant FMC) there were other things that made this a cute read. I really liked the development of the setting, they highlighted a lot of what felt like hidden gems in NYC and while I've never been before I loved getting to see Mariel explore the city and find her place there. I also was obsessed with Dash and how self-confident he was and how he nurtured and encouraged Mariel. Also their initial friendship/flirtation was so cute. Yes he might have been too perfect but I'm not complaining. This hits the sweet spot for anyone who loves a Bridgerton-esque thirst trap as well as an easy and cheesy romance!
I was drawn into this book by the unique premise, I hadn't really read anything like this before and honestly my expectations were pretty low just because it seemed very light and fluffy and I was looking for something fast and fun. However I ended up really enjoying this, it was a quick and easy read and while there were a few bits that annoyed me (pop culture references, some cringe dialogue, chaotic and avoidant FMC) there were other things that made this a cute read. I really liked the development of the setting, they highlighted a lot of what felt like hidden gems in NYC and while I've never been before I loved getting to see Mariel explore the city and find her place there. I also was obsessed with Dash and how self-confident he was and how he nurtured and encouraged Mariel. Also their initial friendship/flirtation was so cute. Yes he might have been too perfect but I'm not complaining. This hits the sweet spot for anyone who loves a Bridgerton-esque thirst trap as well as an easy and cheesy romance!
December 19, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an ARC!
I really liked the premise of this book: a struggling, aspiring screenwriter who has just been fired from her full-time job teams up with a sexy influencer to create OnlyFans content. It felt fun, modern, and different.
The main characters, Mariel and Dash, were funny. I could definitely relate to Mariel because of her Hispanic background and her quirky personality. As for Dash… he honestly felt like every other NYC guy to me — a sexy model making money off thirst traps.
Since this is a romance novel, I really enjoyed Mariel and Dash’s banter. Their back-and-forth was quick and entertaining, and their first kiss made me giddy like it was my own.
That said, I would’ve loved more character development, especially for Mariel. I wanted something deeper or more interesting about her.
The book touches on self-respect, finding yourself after a breakup, and fear of abandonment, but unfortunately it stayed very surface-level. I do understand, though, that it’s a short novel, so there wasn’t much room to fully explore those themes.
Overall, this was an easy, quick read with an unique concept.
Release date: February 10, 2026
I really liked the premise of this book: a struggling, aspiring screenwriter who has just been fired from her full-time job teams up with a sexy influencer to create OnlyFans content. It felt fun, modern, and different.
The main characters, Mariel and Dash, were funny. I could definitely relate to Mariel because of her Hispanic background and her quirky personality. As for Dash… he honestly felt like every other NYC guy to me — a sexy model making money off thirst traps.
Since this is a romance novel, I really enjoyed Mariel and Dash’s banter. Their back-and-forth was quick and entertaining, and their first kiss made me giddy like it was my own.
That said, I would’ve loved more character development, especially for Mariel. I wanted something deeper or more interesting about her.
The book touches on self-respect, finding yourself after a breakup, and fear of abandonment, but unfortunately it stayed very surface-level. I do understand, though, that it’s a short novel, so there wasn’t much room to fully explore those themes.
Overall, this was an easy, quick read with an unique concept.
Release date: February 10, 2026
August 27, 2025
This was one of the most unusual romances I’ve read- and it was all down to the tone of the FMC and her path to truly discovering herself. She is A LOT, our Mariel, but she is no manic pixie clone; she is utterly unique, genuine, vulnerable, forward and, most important of all, REFRESHING!! So many stories today seem to have been cobbled together via AI prompts but this story follows a path all its own, with plot points and motivations that I haven’t seen in other books. Looking at some of the lower rated reviews, I get the feeling that those readers wanted the book to be smutty- plenty of that to be found with other books and authors- the distinction here is that this is a very SEXY story. The MMC is a swoon-worthy honey, and the side characters grab your heart as well. I’m looking forward to more stories from Lydia San Andres.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for thie free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for thie free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2025
Thank you to Primero Sueño Press via Netgalley and their influencer program for providing me with the ARC of this book!
Rating : ⭐⭐⭐.5
Only Friends is a romance novel set in NYC focusing on Mariel, our Latina FMC who is trying to figure out how to balance pursuing her passions while also facing the realities of needing to pay rent for a tiny studio.
I love the amount of representation in this book and many parts felt real and relatable. The premise is unllike anything I’ve read so far— but there were some familiar tropes I really enjoyed that reminded me of some other books I really enjoyed too.
I think this was overall a fun and easy read, but I found myself feeling less connected to the characters than I had anticipated— maybe I needed more time with them than what I had. Regardless, I’m sure the promo for this book is going to be amazing and I look forward to hearing others thoughts on it!
Release Date: Feburary 10th, 2026
Rating : ⭐⭐⭐.5
Only Friends is a romance novel set in NYC focusing on Mariel, our Latina FMC who is trying to figure out how to balance pursuing her passions while also facing the realities of needing to pay rent for a tiny studio.
I love the amount of representation in this book and many parts felt real and relatable. The premise is unllike anything I’ve read so far— but there were some familiar tropes I really enjoyed that reminded me of some other books I really enjoyed too.
I think this was overall a fun and easy read, but I found myself feeling less connected to the characters than I had anticipated— maybe I needed more time with them than what I had. Regardless, I’m sure the promo for this book is going to be amazing and I look forward to hearing others thoughts on it!
Release Date: Feburary 10th, 2026
January 8, 2026
I would rate this book as a 3.5 ⭐️ rounded up. I won my copy from Goodreads giveaways, and it was delivered the day I finished my previous read. I’m usually a mood reader, but since it fell into my lap, I figured I’d go ahead and tackle it.
The beginning was a bit rough, I’m not going to lie. I found it to be a little too wordy for my preference. I can see how some might lose interest right there. I kept chugging along though, and I’m glad I did.
This book was full of all the things a book lover loves; book boyfriend, used bookstore, meet cutes, falling in love, a HEA, and more. I enjoyed the character development and the plot more so in the second half of the book than in the first. The core group of characters that become more like family than friends was refreshing and I enjoyed all of their interactions.
I was happy when Mariel decided to face her demons and confront her past so she could have a better future. That about sums it up. 👍🏻
The beginning was a bit rough, I’m not going to lie. I found it to be a little too wordy for my preference. I can see how some might lose interest right there. I kept chugging along though, and I’m glad I did.
This book was full of all the things a book lover loves; book boyfriend, used bookstore, meet cutes, falling in love, a HEA, and more. I enjoyed the character development and the plot more so in the second half of the book than in the first. The core group of characters that become more like family than friends was refreshing and I enjoyed all of their interactions.
I was happy when Mariel decided to face her demons and confront her past so she could have a better future. That about sums it up. 👍🏻
August 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!!
Okay so i really loved the premise of this book. Starting out, I actually had no idea what Regency romance was, but I loved the idea of writers/actors working together based on a common theme that they loved.
I loved Dash and his open communication. I liked the casualness of how his sexuality came up in the book. It was written really well. He was very sweet and open during conversation and an overall good character. I had a harder time loving Mariel. I tend to feel this way about chaotic characters especially those who run away from their problems.
One random thing I loved was the couple of times the narration broke the third wall to make a joke about a pun in parenthesis's, I can’t pinpoint why but it made me giggle every time.
Overall it was a good and fast read and definitely super unique!!
Okay so i really loved the premise of this book. Starting out, I actually had no idea what Regency romance was, but I loved the idea of writers/actors working together based on a common theme that they loved.
I loved Dash and his open communication. I liked the casualness of how his sexuality came up in the book. It was written really well. He was very sweet and open during conversation and an overall good character. I had a harder time loving Mariel. I tend to feel this way about chaotic characters especially those who run away from their problems.
One random thing I loved was the couple of times the narration broke the third wall to make a joke about a pun in parenthesis's, I can’t pinpoint why but it made me giggle every time.
Overall it was a good and fast read and definitely super unique!!
July 24, 2025
I wanted to love this because the premise sounded so unique and interesting: Regency romance meets OnlyFans/cosplay/content creation but... the execution fell flat and I felt like it was lacking a LOT. I try not to be so critical of books, especially contemporary romances, but I really was annoyed by Mariel. I did like Dash a lot! He was such a sweetheart, and really was a cinnamon roll type of MMC. I feel like it did not go as deep emotionally as I would have liked and felt very surface level to me. I felt like I just could not engage with it. I do think it had promise and I loved Dash, but other than that, it just did not work for me whatsoever.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lydia San Andres, and Atria/Primero Sueno Press for the eARC of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lydia San Andres, and Atria/Primero Sueno Press for the eARC of this book.
July 28, 2025
Thank you to Atria for the advance reader copy of Only Friends by Lydia San Andres.
Mariel is an aspiring screen writer, fired from her job and dealing with writer’s block. She’s rescued by a model dressed in a regency costume. Mariel meets Dash, who has been modeling for years, and he’s the perfect person to play her character, the Duke of Harding. The two partner up to make spicy historical shorts.
I really enjoyed this premise! Oh my goodness, I adored Dash. Mariel is such a great MC as well and I love that we get the story through Mariel’s POV. I really enjoyed Mariel and Dash’s partnership and getting to see their relationship develop. There are some absolutely lovely moments between these two. I also enjoyed Mariel’s friends!
Mariel is an aspiring screen writer, fired from her job and dealing with writer’s block. She’s rescued by a model dressed in a regency costume. Mariel meets Dash, who has been modeling for years, and he’s the perfect person to play her character, the Duke of Harding. The two partner up to make spicy historical shorts.
I really enjoyed this premise! Oh my goodness, I adored Dash. Mariel is such a great MC as well and I love that we get the story through Mariel’s POV. I really enjoyed Mariel and Dash’s partnership and getting to see their relationship develop. There are some absolutely lovely moments between these two. I also enjoyed Mariel’s friends!
December 4, 2025
Only Friends has a modern plot that takes advantage of the online era we're in. The project our main characters bond over is largely on Tiktok and OnlyFans, plus a fictional dating app called Fling. Our FMC is pretty flighty, dealing with her own emotional trauma and the MMC wants someone to not just look at him, but actually see him...beyond being gorgeous and playing a Regency Duke so well. Meeting in a frenzy in Times Square sets the tone for this couple who only stop to reflect on their relationship - both personal and working - once it all gets real. All of the side characters were fun and interesting and while I wanted to shake our FMC most of the book, I get it. We all have our own issues and it's going to take good friends and FOMO to get past them.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
Only Friends was a cute fun story, very quick read that was well paced. I really liked the premise, the representation and the characters. I really liked the two main characters and how they met and started collaborating. I was expecting a little bit more detail on the writing of her scripts (her screenplay wrapped up too easily and fast) and also of the relationships (I wanted more from the side characters). It wasn’t enough of a slow burn and felt too easy with not enough emotion and depth.
Again I really did enjoy the story and would read her future books but everything just felt to easy. I need more conflict!
Only Friends was a cute fun story, very quick read that was well paced. I really liked the premise, the representation and the characters. I really liked the two main characters and how they met and started collaborating. I was expecting a little bit more detail on the writing of her scripts (her screenplay wrapped up too easily and fast) and also of the relationships (I wanted more from the side characters). It wasn’t enough of a slow burn and felt too easy with not enough emotion and depth.
Again I really did enjoy the story and would read her future books but everything just felt to easy. I need more conflict!
July 21, 2025
Mariel is at a crossroads - recently fired from her job and struggling with writer’s block, her dreams of finishing a screenplay seem stalled. Enter Dashwood (aka Dash), who agrees to partner with her on an unconventional creative venture: an Austen-inspired OnlyFans account. Mariel writes the content, Dash performs as a brooding, modern Mr. Darcy, and their account quickly goes viral—bringing both the rewards and complications of internet fame.
While the premise is certainly contemporary, I struggled to connect with the tone and character development. The normalization of using a platform like OnlyFans to launch a career felt somewhat underexplored and inconsistent, with fluctuating levels of explicitness that left me unclear on the intended audience or message. Additionally, the main characters felt underdeveloped—Mariel came across as flat, and Dash lacked agency.
The novel had potential, especially in its commentary on fame, content creation, and performance, but it could benefit from stronger pacing and deeper character work. It may resonate more with readers who are more in step with its generational and cultural references, but it didn’t quite land for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
While the premise is certainly contemporary, I struggled to connect with the tone and character development. The normalization of using a platform like OnlyFans to launch a career felt somewhat underexplored and inconsistent, with fluctuating levels of explicitness that left me unclear on the intended audience or message. Additionally, the main characters felt underdeveloped—Mariel came across as flat, and Dash lacked agency.
The novel had potential, especially in its commentary on fame, content creation, and performance, but it could benefit from stronger pacing and deeper character work. It may resonate more with readers who are more in step with its generational and cultural references, but it didn’t quite land for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
July 30, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, publisher and author for an early copy in exchange for an honest review!
The cover definitely is what got me interested in reading and the premise of the story. This was a quick read for me! But I struggled a little with the writing and felt like while there was good premise of the story, it fell flat a little with exploring more the aspects of Mariel's career and such. I did really like Dash's character, I am obsessed with cinnamon roll ish MMCs.
While this book was not totally for me, it may be good for you! Definitely has a good rom-com aspect to it! :)
The cover definitely is what got me interested in reading and the premise of the story. This was a quick read for me! But I struggled a little with the writing and felt like while there was good premise of the story, it fell flat a little with exploring more the aspects of Mariel's career and such. I did really like Dash's character, I am obsessed with cinnamon roll ish MMCs.
While this book was not totally for me, it may be good for you! Definitely has a good rom-com aspect to it! :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 2, 2025Thank you to the publisher for providing the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this one. The premise sounded so so good, but sadly it's a DNF at 30% when the mmc said he would miss her if she left after knowing her for 3 days.
It's the tell and not show book. There was also a lot of repetition. I had some issues with the pacing (they just met and already have a business arrangement).
The fmc was cute a quirky. And that could have been such a good selling point.
I really wanted to like this one. The premise sounded so so good, but sadly it's a DNF at 30% when the mmc said he would miss her if she left after knowing her for 3 days.
It's the tell and not show book. There was also a lot of repetition. I had some issues with the pacing (they just met and already have a business arrangement).
The fmc was cute a quirky. And that could have been such a good selling point.
September 9, 2025
3.5⭐️ Didn’t expect this one to hit so close to home! The FMC’s struggles with abandonment mirrored a lot of my own experiences, and I found myself connecting with her on such a personal level. It was a reminder that even when the past leaves scars, there are people who will recognize your worth and your light.
I picked it up for the romance but finished it feeling seen and validated. A great modern day (cosplay) regency romance with real emotional depth—perfect to pick up anytime of year.
Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
I picked it up for the romance but finished it feeling seen and validated. A great modern day (cosplay) regency romance with real emotional depth—perfect to pick up anytime of year.
Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
October 1, 2025
3.5⭐️
I thought the concept of the book was cute and different. I loved the diverse characters. I think Dash was adorable. He was a little too perfect for me but he was still really sweet. Mariel, I was getting annoyed that she was always running away from talking about anything personals/deep with Dash. I get it was part of her character but sometimes it just made her a bit annoying/immature.
I felt like I was missing something from this story like I needed more from it.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a chance to read this ARC.
I thought the concept of the book was cute and different. I loved the diverse characters. I think Dash was adorable. He was a little too perfect for me but he was still really sweet. Mariel, I was getting annoyed that she was always running away from talking about anything personals/deep with Dash. I get it was part of her character but sometimes it just made her a bit annoying/immature.
I felt like I was missing something from this story like I needed more from it.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a chance to read this ARC.
October 4, 2025
2.5 stars
Having the MMC silently check-out for a portion of the book and and having the FMC be oblivious, makes it hard to connect to their story.
While I liked their story as a whole, I wasn't incredible invested. The romance was overshadowed by Mariel's obsession with making Dash famous. I thought it was a unique plot and I liked it, but it did seem a bit overpowering.
The side characters were great and they really added to the overall story.
Overall, this was a good read with a fun spin on a romance plot.
Having the MMC silently check-out for a portion of the book and and having the FMC be oblivious, makes it hard to connect to their story.
While I liked their story as a whole, I wasn't incredible invested. The romance was overshadowed by Mariel's obsession with making Dash famous. I thought it was a unique plot and I liked it, but it did seem a bit overpowering.
The side characters were great and they really added to the overall story.
Overall, this was a good read with a fun spin on a romance plot.
December 2, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Atria Books and Lydia San Andres for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
Only Feiends is an excellent debut for Ms. Lydia and it had me intrigued. It took me a minute to really get into it, but once I did it has become book I love. The character development and world building are phenomenal. The chemistry between Dash and Mariel is chef's kiss. The side characters are an awesome addition. This book is a hilarious cozy comfy read. The flow is perfect.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all y'all.
Only Feiends is an excellent debut for Ms. Lydia and it had me intrigued. It took me a minute to really get into it, but once I did it has become book I love. The character development and world building are phenomenal. The chemistry between Dash and Mariel is chef's kiss. The side characters are an awesome addition. This book is a hilarious cozy comfy read. The flow is perfect.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all y'all.
December 23, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria / Primero Sueno Press for an ARC of this book! I really enjoyed it! It was a sweet and swoony book. I loved Dash's character and how Shy and Aria become interconnected characters. I don't love a 3rd act breakup, but I could see it coming. The idea of the Regency thirst traps is so fun! I hope to see an expansion of this book into a series so we can see the love stories for Chase and Yaz. Or a prequel that shows how Shy and Aria reconnected after those 6 years. I love the queer and cultural representation that Lydia San Andres included in this book. I'm excited to read her next one!
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