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The Starter Ex
The best worst girlfriend finally meets her match . . .
Vanessa Cordero used to run a profitable side For a reasonable fee, she’d date your crush . . . and make his life miserable. Too clingy? Check. Jealous? Check. A parent's worst nightmare? Triple check. By the time Vanessa was done with him, your guy was practically begging for you.
Enter Jason Torres, a certified commitment-phobe who doesn't plan on getting married anytime soon, much to his mother’s dismay. What he needs is a temporary girlfriend. A totally inappropriate girlfriend. Someone his mother will hate, so she'll finally abandon her dream of getting him to the altar.
Vanessa's younger sister, Lisa, has her eye on Jason, and convinces Vanessa to come out of retirement for one last starter ex engagement. The rules are no touching, no fooling around, and definitely no falling in love. But nothing's going according to plan. Because Vanessa can't ditch Jason no matter how hard she tries to scare him away. And the longer they're around each other, the more neither of them wants to be apart.
Vanessa Cordero used to run a profitable side For a reasonable fee, she’d date your crush . . . and make his life miserable. Too clingy? Check. Jealous? Check. A parent's worst nightmare? Triple check. By the time Vanessa was done with him, your guy was practically begging for you.
Enter Jason Torres, a certified commitment-phobe who doesn't plan on getting married anytime soon, much to his mother’s dismay. What he needs is a temporary girlfriend. A totally inappropriate girlfriend. Someone his mother will hate, so she'll finally abandon her dream of getting him to the altar.
Vanessa's younger sister, Lisa, has her eye on Jason, and convinces Vanessa to come out of retirement for one last starter ex engagement. The rules are no touching, no fooling around, and definitely no falling in love. But nothing's going according to plan. Because Vanessa can't ditch Jason no matter how hard she tries to scare him away. And the longer they're around each other, the more neither of them wants to be apart.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2026
127 people are currently reading
16988 people want to read
About the author
Mia Sosa
14 books3,286 followersMia Sosa is an award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. Her books have received praise from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, Booklist, Library Journal, The Washington Post, Buzzfeed, NPR, and more.
Booklist called her the “go-to author for fans of sassy and sexy contemporary romances,” and Entertainment Weekly described her trade paperback debut, The Worst Best Man, as "rom-com perfection."
A former First Amendment and media lawyer, Mia practiced for more than a decade before trading her suits for loungewear (read: sweatpants). Now she writes fun, flirty, and moderately dirty stories about imperfect characters finding their perfect match.
Mia lives in Maryland with her husband, their two daughters, a gentle Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and one rescue cat that rules them all.
For more information about Mia and her books, visit www.miasosa.com.
Booklist called her the “go-to author for fans of sassy and sexy contemporary romances,” and Entertainment Weekly described her trade paperback debut, The Worst Best Man, as "rom-com perfection."
A former First Amendment and media lawyer, Mia practiced for more than a decade before trading her suits for loungewear (read: sweatpants). Now she writes fun, flirty, and moderately dirty stories about imperfect characters finding their perfect match.
Mia lives in Maryland with her husband, their two daughters, a gentle Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and one rescue cat that rules them all.
For more information about Mia and her books, visit www.miasosa.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 707 reviews
September 16, 2025
Latine Heritage Month 2025 #1
While this didn't amuse me as much as THE WEDDING CRASHER, there were still pros. Mia is known for her Afro-Latine representation, and I am here for it.
Vanessa spent her life working hard and getting out of Spanish Harlem. I hate when people say dating "up," but she did, and those men were judgmental and rude, all of which is unnecessary.
In college, she made extra cash by helping women get men by being their starter ex. She'd date the guy the woman wanted, be so bad he was thankful to get rid of her, and then eventually saw the other woman as a godsend. Nothing can go wrong, right? Wrong. So, so wrong.
When Vanessa's sister, Lisa, asks for this service, Vanessa comes out of retirement to try towin lose Jason, Lisa's best friend's brother. The sibling thing already weirded me out, so I guess we can start there.
Lisa's expectations are unrealistic. Funnily enough, Jason finds out about the ruse, doesn't tell Vanessa, and plays along himself.
When shit hits the fan, and you think Lisa will blow, she doesn't. I won't tell you why, because hello, spoilers, but I felt it came out of left field. I wanted to make a baseball joke since Vanessa and Jason ended up at a Mets game. Is it funny? It's not funny, is it?
rep: Puerto Rican
tw: cheating, classism, racism
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons
While this didn't amuse me as much as THE WEDDING CRASHER, there were still pros. Mia is known for her Afro-Latine representation, and I am here for it.
Vanessa spent her life working hard and getting out of Spanish Harlem. I hate when people say dating "up," but she did, and those men were judgmental and rude, all of which is unnecessary.
In college, she made extra cash by helping women get men by being their starter ex. She'd date the guy the woman wanted, be so bad he was thankful to get rid of her, and then eventually saw the other woman as a godsend. Nothing can go wrong, right? Wrong. So, so wrong.
When Vanessa's sister, Lisa, asks for this service, Vanessa comes out of retirement to try to
Lisa's expectations are unrealistic. Funnily enough, Jason finds out about the ruse, doesn't tell Vanessa, and plays along himself.
When shit hits the fan, and you think Lisa will blow, she doesn't. I won't tell you why, because hello, spoilers, but I felt it came out of left field. I wanted to make a baseball joke since Vanessa and Jason ended up at a Mets game. Is it funny? It's not funny, is it?
rep: Puerto Rican
tw: cheating, classism, racism
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons
March 6, 2026
And then I'll get back to being what Lisa needs: the person who'll help her secure the man of her dreams.
Never mind that he may very well be the man of
my dreams too.
Falling for the man you’re trying to help your sister get with??? Sign 👏🏼 me 👏🏼 up 👏🏼😏
There are books with fun plots, and then there are books with ideas that instantly hook you… and this one definitely did. The whole chaotic concept of someone purposely being the worst girlfriend imaginable shouldn’t have worked, but somehow it pulled me in completely.
Vanessa and Jason have this sharp, teasing banter that sparks from the start. It builds in that slow-burn, simmering way where you can feel something shifting even if they won’t acknowledge it yet. And mixed into all of that were genuinely funny moments—unexpected humor that kept the story from ever feeling too heavy or too serious.
But I’ll be honest, the moment everything was supposed to finally click felt rushed. All that delicious buildup, and then the payoff came and went so fast I barely had time to feel anything. 🥲 Maybe it was the pacing, maybe the timing, but something about it just fell flat for me.😔
What did land, though, were the emotional undercurrents. Both characters are carrying pieces of their past they haven’t dealt with, and the story really leans into how that shapes the way they love, hide, avoid, or open up.
So overall? Unique premise, great tension, fun banter, well-timed humor, and real emotional growth. I just wish the execution of the turning point matched how strong the beginning was. It didn’t fully deliver, but it was still a solid read.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
“Looking at her is like facing the sun and letting its warmth settle into your skin.”
“Maybe my heart was supposed to be broken so I could recognize the person who's meant to heal it."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🧡 sister’s crush
🧡 fake dating (with a twist)
🧡 dual POV
🧡 lotssss of banter
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Putnam, and Mia Sosa for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【🌶️🌶️🌶️】
swearing: yes
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
my interest is piqued… this is unique but sounds so interesting
Never mind that he may very well be the man of
my dreams too.
Falling for the man you’re trying to help your sister get with??? Sign 👏🏼 me 👏🏼 up 👏🏼😏
There are books with fun plots, and then there are books with ideas that instantly hook you… and this one definitely did. The whole chaotic concept of someone purposely being the worst girlfriend imaginable shouldn’t have worked, but somehow it pulled me in completely.
Vanessa and Jason have this sharp, teasing banter that sparks from the start. It builds in that slow-burn, simmering way where you can feel something shifting even if they won’t acknowledge it yet. And mixed into all of that were genuinely funny moments—unexpected humor that kept the story from ever feeling too heavy or too serious.
But I’ll be honest, the moment everything was supposed to finally click felt rushed. All that delicious buildup, and then the payoff came and went so fast I barely had time to feel anything. 🥲 Maybe it was the pacing, maybe the timing, but something about it just fell flat for me.😔
What did land, though, were the emotional undercurrents. Both characters are carrying pieces of their past they haven’t dealt with, and the story really leans into how that shapes the way they love, hide, avoid, or open up.
So overall? Unique premise, great tension, fun banter, well-timed humor, and real emotional growth. I just wish the execution of the turning point matched how strong the beginning was. It didn’t fully deliver, but it was still a solid read.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
“Looking at her is like facing the sun and letting its warmth settle into your skin.”
“Maybe my heart was supposed to be broken so I could recognize the person who's meant to heal it."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🧡 sister’s crush
🧡 fake dating (with a twist)
🧡 dual POV
🧡 lotssss of banter
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Putnam, and Mia Sosa for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【🌶️🌶️🌶️】
swearing: yes
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
my interest is piqued… this is unique but sounds so interesting
February 11, 2026
Mia Sosa is one of my favourite authors. I discovered contemporary romance thanks to her books so I may be a bit biased but I just loved this book. The main idea of this book is super original, the characters are perfect, I just loved this 🩷🩷🩷🩷
---
Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for allowing me to read this one! I have already listened to this story when it was published as an Audible Original and love it! Mia Sosa is one of my favourite authors. I discovered contemporary romance thanks to her books so I may be a bit biased but I just loved this book. The main idea of this book is super original, the characters are perfect, I just loved this!
This was SUCH a fun ride!
Vanessa Cordero is the ultimate chaos queen, in college she literally built a business out of being the “starter ex,” dating guys and making them so miserable they’d run straight into someone else’s arms. Iconic behavior, honestly.
Then we have Jason Torres, a commitment-phobe who needs a fake girlfriend so inappropriate that his mom will finally stop pushing him toward marriage. Obviously, this can only go well… right?
What follows is fake dating perfection with rules (no touching, no fooling around, definitely no falling in love 👀), family meddling, sizzling tension, and that delicious slow realization that maybe the arrangement isn’t so fake after all
I loved how much fun this story was while still delivering heart. Vanessa and Jason balance each other so well, and watching their walls slowly come down was everything.
If you love fake dating, messy family dynamics, strong heroines with a chaotic streak, and a romance that makes you smile the whole way through, definitely recommend!
---
Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for allowing me to read this one! I have already listened to this story when it was published as an Audible Original and love it! Mia Sosa is one of my favourite authors. I discovered contemporary romance thanks to her books so I may be a bit biased but I just loved this book. The main idea of this book is super original, the characters are perfect, I just loved this!
This was SUCH a fun ride!
Vanessa Cordero is the ultimate chaos queen, in college she literally built a business out of being the “starter ex,” dating guys and making them so miserable they’d run straight into someone else’s arms. Iconic behavior, honestly.
Then we have Jason Torres, a commitment-phobe who needs a fake girlfriend so inappropriate that his mom will finally stop pushing him toward marriage. Obviously, this can only go well… right?
What follows is fake dating perfection with rules (no touching, no fooling around, definitely no falling in love 👀), family meddling, sizzling tension, and that delicious slow realization that maybe the arrangement isn’t so fake after all
I loved how much fun this story was while still delivering heart. Vanessa and Jason balance each other so well, and watching their walls slowly come down was everything.
If you love fake dating, messy family dynamics, strong heroines with a chaotic streak, and a romance that makes you smile the whole way through, definitely recommend!
March 20, 2024
This light romance made a change for me. It came up on my Borrowbox to listen to and the cover (yep….im partial to a colourful cover or two) got my attention.
So two sisters form a rouge to entice this chap to notice the sister who fancies him, except….it backfires.
Although this is romance and fluffy it did have some serious overtures to it for the reader to invest in which didn’t make it cheesy.
A bit of romp and “how’s yer father” but not too much if you’re not inclined to share boudoir antics lol
So two sisters form a rouge to entice this chap to notice the sister who fancies him, except….it backfires.
Although this is romance and fluffy it did have some serious overtures to it for the reader to invest in which didn’t make it cheesy.
A bit of romp and “how’s yer father” but not too much if you’re not inclined to share boudoir antics lol
March 16, 2026
Classic rom-com lovers, we’ve got a romance book with a How to Lose a Guy in 10 Dates vibe on our hands!!! The most absurd, laugh out loud, belly aches from laughing so hard kind of book!
Operation make his mom hate me sent me to the absolute MOON!!!
Operation make his mom hate me sent me to the absolute MOON!!!
February 26, 2024
3.5 stars
I had some ups and downs, but I mostly enjoyed this! I know going into these types of stories tht miscommunication is going to be a big issue, but I thought Mia Sosa managed to create drama and tension without using miscommunication as a default and let Vanessa and Jason's relationship devlop and evlove organically.
I had some ups and downs, but I mostly enjoyed this! I know going into these types of stories tht miscommunication is going to be a big issue, but I thought Mia Sosa managed to create drama and tension without using miscommunication as a default and let Vanessa and Jason's relationship devlop and evlove organically.
March 25, 2024
3.5 stars
March 17, 2026
I hadn’t picked up a Mia Sosa book in about four years, and based on my previous experiences (one forgettable, one I couldn’t even get past the first chapter), my expectations were… low. But The Starter Ex was definitely an improvement.
Let’s start with the premise—which is either wildly creative or completely absurd, depending on your tolerance for drama. Vanessa used to run a paid service where she’d date men and act like the worst girlfriend imaginable so they’d run straight into someone else’s arms. And yes, she made money doing this. Years later, her sister Lisa asks her to resurrect this scheme… on a guy she actually likes. Logically? This falls apart in seconds. But as a rom-com setup? It had potential.
Execution, though, is where things got uneven.
Vanessa and Jason have great banter—sharp, playful, and easily one of the book’s strongest points. Their chemistry is there, and the flirting genuinely works. The first kiss? Beautifully done. The steamy scenes? Effective (though one toward the end felt slightly off in tone).
The book also weaves in cultural representation through Vanessa’s and Jason’s Latinx heritage, which adds a nice layer of authenticity to their characters and family dynamics.
But the emotional progression didn’t fully land for me. The shift from strangers to full-blown feelings felt rushed, like I missed a few key beats where that connection should’ve deepened. The build-up had promise, but the payoff came too quickly and didn’t hit as hard as it should have.
Lisa’s character also needed more depth. She starts off distant toward Vanessa, then abruptly pivots the moment she needs something from her. That shift felt convenient rather than earned. Her subplot—and her relationship—leans heavily on a “twist” that lacks proper groundwork, making it feel more arbitrary than impactful.
There’s also an attempt to layer complexity into the characters through past trauma and personal struggles, but at times it feels a bit forced rather than organic. And while I wouldn’t say Vanessa and Jason are unlikable, they’re not particularly easy to root for either—they’re messy, flawed, and occasionally frustrating. That said, I didn’t dislike them entirely; as Denise says in the book, there isn’t always good or bad—there are shades of gray (fifty of them, apparently).
The ex-boyfriend subplot was predictable. Not terrible, but nothing that adds much freshness either.
One thing I did appreciate: the book doesn’t rely excessively on miscommunication to drive conflict, which is rare for this trope. The drama mostly comes from the premise itself—which, again, is both its biggest strength and biggest weakness. And interestingly, when Jason discovers Vanessa’s scheme, instead of immediately blowing things up, he chooses to play along, which adds another layer of tension to their dynamic.
One standout for me was Denise (Jason’s sister). She completely stole the spotlight toward the end and ended up being my favorite character in the book.
Overall, The Starter Ex is a fast, entertaining read with a fun concept, strong banter, and decent emotional undercurrents—but it doesn’t fully capitalize on its own setup. It needed either deeper character development or more convincing romantic progression to really stick the landing.
Not amazing, not bad—just… solidly mid, with flashes of something better.
Let’s start with the premise—which is either wildly creative or completely absurd, depending on your tolerance for drama. Vanessa used to run a paid service where she’d date men and act like the worst girlfriend imaginable so they’d run straight into someone else’s arms. And yes, she made money doing this. Years later, her sister Lisa asks her to resurrect this scheme… on a guy she actually likes. Logically? This falls apart in seconds. But as a rom-com setup? It had potential.
Execution, though, is where things got uneven.
Vanessa and Jason have great banter—sharp, playful, and easily one of the book’s strongest points. Their chemistry is there, and the flirting genuinely works. The first kiss? Beautifully done. The steamy scenes? Effective (though one toward the end felt slightly off in tone).
The book also weaves in cultural representation through Vanessa’s and Jason’s Latinx heritage, which adds a nice layer of authenticity to their characters and family dynamics.
But the emotional progression didn’t fully land for me. The shift from strangers to full-blown feelings felt rushed, like I missed a few key beats where that connection should’ve deepened. The build-up had promise, but the payoff came too quickly and didn’t hit as hard as it should have.
Lisa’s character also needed more depth. She starts off distant toward Vanessa, then abruptly pivots the moment she needs something from her. That shift felt convenient rather than earned. Her subplot—and her relationship—leans heavily on a “twist” that lacks proper groundwork, making it feel more arbitrary than impactful.
There’s also an attempt to layer complexity into the characters through past trauma and personal struggles, but at times it feels a bit forced rather than organic. And while I wouldn’t say Vanessa and Jason are unlikable, they’re not particularly easy to root for either—they’re messy, flawed, and occasionally frustrating. That said, I didn’t dislike them entirely; as Denise says in the book, there isn’t always good or bad—there are shades of gray (fifty of them, apparently).
The ex-boyfriend subplot was predictable. Not terrible, but nothing that adds much freshness either.
One thing I did appreciate: the book doesn’t rely excessively on miscommunication to drive conflict, which is rare for this trope. The drama mostly comes from the premise itself—which, again, is both its biggest strength and biggest weakness. And interestingly, when Jason discovers Vanessa’s scheme, instead of immediately blowing things up, he chooses to play along, which adds another layer of tension to their dynamic.
One standout for me was Denise (Jason’s sister). She completely stole the spotlight toward the end and ended up being my favorite character in the book.
Overall, The Starter Ex is a fast, entertaining read with a fun concept, strong banter, and decent emotional undercurrents—but it doesn’t fully capitalize on its own setup. It needed either deeper character development or more convincing romantic progression to really stick the landing.
Not amazing, not bad—just… solidly mid, with flashes of something better.
January 31, 2024
This was a funny and very cute romcom. I enjoyed it. I made a mistake by reading some of the reviews that said they DNFed it or didn’t like it but I really liked it. This was a cute story.
February 3, 2024
None of these characters should be in relationships if we're being real lmao
January 31, 2024
Easy read but sex scenes weren't needed in the story. Keep to the storyline.
Eh was o.k.
Eh was o.k.
March 11, 2026
Review from 2/14/2024:
I obtained free access to the audiobook version of this novel through my Audible membership.
This story did not work for me because I didn't enjoy its particular twist on the popular romance trope of fake dating. The premise is that the FMC is so utterly desirable that she can get any man she focuses on to date her, which in and of itself is questionable. Hetero men do not universally have the same taste in women. In addition, the FMC immediately proceeds to treat her dupe so horribly, that supposedly it will inevitably make the woman who actually wants him, and has hired the FMC to engage in this deception, look good by comparison. This assumption does not take into account two distinct possibilities, neither of which will lead to the desired outcome. First, the FMC wouldn't last beyond a first date if the targeted man has any pride whatsoever. Or second, some men are so anxious to raise their social standing by parading around attractive arm candy, they will be perfectly willing to stick around while a beautiful shrew is abusing them. Either way, this morally bankrupt machination will fail.
Most of all, I didn't like either the FMC or the MMC in this story. Neither is sympathetic. Manipulating other people for your own gain is not an admirable trait.
I obtained free access to the audiobook version of this novel through my Audible membership.
This story did not work for me because I didn't enjoy its particular twist on the popular romance trope of fake dating. The premise is that the FMC is so utterly desirable that she can get any man she focuses on to date her, which in and of itself is questionable. Hetero men do not universally have the same taste in women. In addition, the FMC immediately proceeds to treat her dupe so horribly, that supposedly it will inevitably make the woman who actually wants him, and has hired the FMC to engage in this deception, look good by comparison. This assumption does not take into account two distinct possibilities, neither of which will lead to the desired outcome. First, the FMC wouldn't last beyond a first date if the targeted man has any pride whatsoever. Or second, some men are so anxious to raise their social standing by parading around attractive arm candy, they will be perfectly willing to stick around while a beautiful shrew is abusing them. Either way, this morally bankrupt machination will fail.
Most of all, I didn't like either the FMC or the MMC in this story. Neither is sympathetic. Manipulating other people for your own gain is not an admirable trait.
January 28, 2024
Eh. I could take this or leave this. It's pretty forgettable.
And honestly, I'd probably have rated it lower if it weren't free on Audible and on the shorter side :/
And honestly, I'd probably have rated it lower if it weren't free on Audible and on the shorter side :/
November 4, 2025
3.75/5
this book is for the fans of how to lose a guy in ten days, a.k.a me!
from the synopsis i knew this would be a fun time, a girl is going to fake date the guy her sister likes and be a horrible girlfriend so he will go running to the sister when its all said and done. it sounds crazy when you type it all out, but the actual product isn't as crazy. the story is also set during the buildup for a wedding and books with wedding festivities always hit for me!
vanessa and jason had a very sweet connection. from the very start you could see how the two were compatible and the antics of all of their dates kept me entertained the entire time. it was also very easy for me to root for them to be together because lisa, the sister, was kinda annoying. she was pretty manipulative about her sister and their strangled relationship. i get that vanessa made a mistake in college but it's been years, i felt like the sister relationship wasn't my fav. by the end i wanted more resolution between jason and vanessa, we kinda went straight to sex when we could've used another conversation between the two.
its kinda upsetting because i wanted to love this so much more than i did. i had a great time but between the stilted dialogue, the denise/lisa fights, i was left a but unsatisfied. going back to denise and lisa, i could kinda predict that the two would have the ending they had but i wish they weren't so awful to each other the whole time. they went from being incredibly insulting to each other, to what they ended up as very quickly and it didn't seem like the best transition, from a readers perspective.
*thank you netgalley and putnam for the copy!*
this book is for the fans of how to lose a guy in ten days, a.k.a me!
from the synopsis i knew this would be a fun time, a girl is going to fake date the guy her sister likes and be a horrible girlfriend so he will go running to the sister when its all said and done. it sounds crazy when you type it all out, but the actual product isn't as crazy. the story is also set during the buildup for a wedding and books with wedding festivities always hit for me!
vanessa and jason had a very sweet connection. from the very start you could see how the two were compatible and the antics of all of their dates kept me entertained the entire time. it was also very easy for me to root for them to be together because lisa, the sister, was kinda annoying. she was pretty manipulative about her sister and their strangled relationship. i get that vanessa made a mistake in college but it's been years, i felt like the sister relationship wasn't my fav. by the end i wanted more resolution between jason and vanessa, we kinda went straight to sex when we could've used another conversation between the two.
its kinda upsetting because i wanted to love this so much more than i did. i had a great time but between the stilted dialogue, the denise/lisa fights, i was left a but unsatisfied. going back to denise and lisa, i could kinda predict that the two would have the ending they had but i wish they weren't so awful to each other the whole time. they went from being incredibly insulting to each other, to what they ended up as very quickly and it didn't seem like the best transition, from a readers perspective.
*thank you netgalley and putnam for the copy!*
March 14, 2026
Couldn’t put it down, read it in one day!!!! (And it was a pretty busy one!)
Unique idea, the best banter, omg their banter was bantering so hard, funny shenanigans, set in current time but with vibes of ‘90/early 2000 classic romcoms.
I was a bit scared if there would be a big sister fallout and (too much) drama but at the end it was wrapped just perfectly.
Mostly fun, next level entertaining for 90% of the book, with the 10% left for some cries and spice.
Their first kiss? I needed to stop reading cause the butterflies were going off so strong (yes, I got legit butterflies from their kiss)
Felt all the feels.
A lot of highlights.
Could. Not. Put. It. Down. No, but really.
The banter.
All of the family dynamics.
Mostly entertaining but with depth to the characters, too.
Mildly spicy (2-3 scenes).
The first kiss happened not that far into the story but the it was slow burn *chefs kiss*
“How to lose a guy in 10 days” vibes (just vibes cause the plot is similar in a way but not the same)
Wrapped up perfectly, it all made so much sense, even the 3rd act breakup.
I’m going to create new tags: the best banter, one day reads.
Got the NetGalley ARC but going to buy the paperback as this was such a cozy and fun time read (and ALL THE FEELS) that I will be wanting to do a reread.
Unique idea, the best banter, omg their banter was bantering so hard, funny shenanigans, set in current time but with vibes of ‘90/early 2000 classic romcoms.
I was a bit scared if there would be a big sister fallout and (too much) drama but at the end it was wrapped just perfectly.
Mostly fun, next level entertaining for 90% of the book, with the 10% left for some cries and spice.
Their first kiss? I needed to stop reading cause the butterflies were going off so strong (yes, I got legit butterflies from their kiss)
Felt all the feels.
A lot of highlights.
Could. Not. Put. It. Down. No, but really.
The banter.
All of the family dynamics.
Mostly entertaining but with depth to the characters, too.
Mildly spicy (2-3 scenes).
The first kiss happened not that far into the story but the it was slow burn *chefs kiss*
“How to lose a guy in 10 days” vibes (just vibes cause the plot is similar in a way but not the same)
Wrapped up perfectly, it all made so much sense, even the 3rd act breakup.
I’m going to create new tags: the best banter, one day reads.
Got the NetGalley ARC but going to buy the paperback as this was such a cozy and fun time read (and ALL THE FEELS) that I will be wanting to do a reread.
October 1, 2025
I was hooked at the start of this book because the premise felt so fresh and unique, and I couldn’t wait to see where it would go! Somewhere past the halfway mark, the spark sort of fizzled out for me. The pacing was not an issue for me (plenty of back-to-back Jason and Vanessa moments), but the scenes did not quite hold my interest the way I hoped they would. The book is well-written but I still felt no connection to the main characters. The banter and tension stayed mild and cute throughout, but not heart-grabbing. What really kept me turning pages, though, was how beautifully the author wove in cultural elements and how different the storyline felt compared to others I’ve read.
Thank you Netgalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did not do the audiobook but I could not find the physical book on Goodreads weirdly enough!
Thank you Netgalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did not do the audiobook but I could not find the physical book on Goodreads weirdly enough!
February 10, 2026
This was a quick read that has a fmc who’s paid by her sister to date the mmc and push him to her sister. The plan starts off well until the mcs fall for each other. I liked the diversity in this book and the role that family dynamics had in the relationship. I liked the Puerto Rican culture that was woven to the book. I thought the relationship was cute but it felt a bit superficial and didn’t always land. I did enjoy how fast paced the book was even thought the plot and characters didn’t always hit like i wanted them to.
December 17, 2025
I believe Mia Sosa to be a criminally underrated author, and she proves her excellence yet again with The Starter Ex. This book is deliciously messy, laugh-out-loud funny, and wildly entertaining. It truly felt like watching a favorite nostalgic 2000’s romcom.
The love story between Vanessa and Jason developed beautifully and organically, making the story feel real. Their relationships with side characters added depth and connection that made the story feel even more authentic.
As someone who LOVES some good banter, I sincerely appreciated the sharp and witty dialogue. It was easy to tell that this was originally created for audio form. I could hear everything so easily in my head, and while I’m not generally an audiobook listener, I’m intrigued by this one. I’m sure it’s phenomenal.
If you’re a fan of stories with beautifully flawed characters, clever conversations, and a wild, outlandish premise that somehow actually works out in the end, this one’s for you.
*Thank you to Putnam and Netgalley for the eARC*
The love story between Vanessa and Jason developed beautifully and organically, making the story feel real. Their relationships with side characters added depth and connection that made the story feel even more authentic.
As someone who LOVES some good banter, I sincerely appreciated the sharp and witty dialogue. It was easy to tell that this was originally created for audio form. I could hear everything so easily in my head, and while I’m not generally an audiobook listener, I’m intrigued by this one. I’m sure it’s phenomenal.
If you’re a fan of stories with beautifully flawed characters, clever conversations, and a wild, outlandish premise that somehow actually works out in the end, this one’s for you.
*Thank you to Putnam and Netgalley for the eARC*
August 31, 2025
Loved this one!
March 17, 2024
I *loved* the premise of this! So we have Vanessa who is real good at going out with a guy, being a terrible person, and the girl who actually wants him swoops in to show him how amazing she can be. She’s so good she’s charging women for this service - or did back in college.
Fast forward some years and Vanessa’s sister hears about this service she used to provide, and wants her to do it for her. The guy in question being Jason, her best friends brother. Vanessa hesitantly agrees.
As you can guess…things don’t go according to plan and OOPS - now she has feelings for Jason. The drama and antics that ensued were lighthearted but fun. The rose sex toy scene with his mom was 😂.
Fast forward some years and Vanessa’s sister hears about this service she used to provide, and wants her to do it for her. The guy in question being Jason, her best friends brother. Vanessa hesitantly agrees.
As you can guess…things don’t go according to plan and OOPS - now she has feelings for Jason. The drama and antics that ensued were lighthearted but fun. The rose sex toy scene with his mom was 😂.
May 6, 2024
4-4.5 stars It took me a minute to buy in, but I ended up really liking this one! I think it would have been 5 stars for me with a bit more build up between the MCs in the early stages.
January 27, 2024
This book was so much fun and laugh out loud funny! Major “How to lose a guy in 10 days” vibes! Mia is one of my favorite authors!
March 10, 2026
Thanks to Putnam and Netgalley for the E-ARC of The Starter Ex by Mia Sosa in exchange for an honest review.
A couple of years ago I stumbled upon this book in its original format (audiobook). It was a quick and easy read back then, full of the banter, chemistry and humor that I am used to when it comes to Mia Sosa. I am happy to say that the change in format didn't change any of the spark the book had back then. Vanessa is still annoying at times, and Jason is along for the ride. I adore the puertorican representation, the craziness and the romance. It might not be my favorite Mia Sosa book (that award remains to The Wedding Crasher) but it's a fun time with lovable characters, sweet and spicy moments that make this a very quick read! My critique remains the same, I wanted more of them as an established couple, but other than that, great time revisiting this book!
Thanks again to Putnam and Netgalley for the E-ARC.
A couple of years ago I stumbled upon this book in its original format (audiobook). It was a quick and easy read back then, full of the banter, chemistry and humor that I am used to when it comes to Mia Sosa. I am happy to say that the change in format didn't change any of the spark the book had back then. Vanessa is still annoying at times, and Jason is along for the ride. I adore the puertorican representation, the craziness and the romance. It might not be my favorite Mia Sosa book (that award remains to The Wedding Crasher) but it's a fun time with lovable characters, sweet and spicy moments that make this a very quick read! My critique remains the same, I wanted more of them as an established couple, but other than that, great time revisiting this book!
Thanks again to Putnam and Netgalley for the E-ARC.
September 23, 2025
3.5 rounded up
This was a fun Latinx spin on the How to lose a guy in 10 dates faking dating love story but has Vanessa working a side gig to pretend to date your crush only to drive them crazy so the next woman they meet looks super appealing. Of course when she signs up to do this to Jason, the commitment phobe guy her sister likes, she ends up succumbing to his charms.
A fun, dual POV, spicy slow burn that like a lot of Sosa's books, revolves around wedding festivities. It was good on audio narrated by Noah B. Perez and Miranda Jay and I'd recommend it if you want some light-hearted fun. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was a fun Latinx spin on the How to lose a guy in 10 dates faking dating love story but has Vanessa working a side gig to pretend to date your crush only to drive them crazy so the next woman they meet looks super appealing. Of course when she signs up to do this to Jason, the commitment phobe guy her sister likes, she ends up succumbing to his charms.
A fun, dual POV, spicy slow burn that like a lot of Sosa's books, revolves around wedding festivities. It was good on audio narrated by Noah B. Perez and Miranda Jay and I'd recommend it if you want some light-hearted fun. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 1, 2025
3.5 stars! I'm glad I got this one in before the end of the year :)
January 29, 2024
Enjoyed this story a lot. Listened to it in 2 days. It did trigger me that the author uses LatinX and Afro-puertorican and black puertorican. But then I remember that this is written by a person raised in the states. Puertoricans never use Latinx and NEVER distinguish someone who is black or white, we’re Puertoricans and that’s it. But understanding the racial divides in the US I guess you can understand why the author used those terms. Pretty fun rom com with great dual POV narration.
March 9, 2026
You know you've found the right fit with a book when you can read it under a day. I opened this one up and could not set it down until the final page was turned. The Starter Ex is fabulous! Total love and adoration for it!
Vanessa has moved back to her home town and desires to reconnect with her family, especially her younger sister Lisa. Which leads to her agreeing, albeit very reluctantly, to take an old job she used to do back in college. Be a starter ex. The goal? Create a toxic romance with the man Lisa secretly loves in order to look her worst while her sister looks her best to win the would-be lover over. Except, the would-be lover in question, Jason, is not at all interested in Lisa...but with one eye on Vanessa's antics and another on her heart, the target might just turn the tables on our starter ex.
This is a book where every facet of it simply worked for me. I immediately clicked with it and stayed locked in until the end. Literally, no notes, just all love! And fun! And swoons! And some angst too! I was simply invested in every single way. But most especially in our heroine. I love Vanessa. I want the world for her! If only she'd think the same about herself. Vanessa lives with much guilt and shame, and it's led to valuing herself less and less. To feeling she doesn't deserve more, so she looks to lift others up, even if that means at the expense of herself. And what we see from this narrative, this journey, is Vanessa overcoming her biggest hurdle: herself. She learns to battle and defeat her self-defeat, to reflect upon her priceless worth, and to embrace the love that's always been waiting with arms wide open. As much as I utterly adored the love story with Jason, it's the self-love arc of Vanessa that had me tearing up and filling my heart to the brim with love.
And another person to fill one's heart of love for, is our other protagonist, Jason. The synopsis cleverly hides away a certain twist when it comes to Jason's arc. It's a reveal that comes I'd say rather early, but I don't want to give it away. What I'll say it this facet of the narrative reinforces my feelings towards the whole story. I had a barrel of laughs with certain antics at hand but also my heart hurt over the miscommunication at play! Because it did bring some angst that will certainly cause future friction in that final act, but that's the stuff I love to eat up!
Jason is a terrific character. He can see through the mask Vanessa wears, to her true self beneath, and is a catalyst in her self-reflection that begins her journey back to valuing herself and allowing herself grace in mistakes made and learned. He challenges her in such a positive way that heightens that electric current running through them. Because even with a lie between them, they still manage to connect with their true selves. Vanessa also serves as catalyst in Jason's own journey. He is resistant in taking risks that could lead to a fuller, more loving life. And that can have him lose out in what matters most, and a certain incident that leads to a certain consequence can see him losing what he now needs most in life. Vanessa's presence in his life basically brings him to life. She's the rainbow filling his life with every vibrant color, and he must make the choice in allowing those colors in or going back to a very monotone, safe-guarded life. I think we know which way he'll go, but gosh, how I loved and rooted for him to get there!
I also loved Vanessa's family. She has grown distant to them, to the point she felt estranged from her sister. But they love her, she may be blind to how much, but oh how they love her and have her back. Including her sister Lisa. And this was actually happy surprise for me, because initially I felt reluctant to like Lisa as I did not like how she pushed Vanessa into taking up her starter ex role. But, like her sister, Lisa grows! She may not have a POV but we see enough to know she's having her own journey of self-actualization and it's a subplot that wholly endeared me to her.
From main leads, to their romance, to the supporting cast, I found so much to delight in...and so much to love! I wouldn't change a thing about this gorgeous read!
Thank you Putnam and NetGalley for this complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
_____
original post-read quick thoughts
I have to say I was a bit shook walking into all the mixed reviews in here ! I just finished this book and loooooved it! It wasn’t even my main read but I simply couldn’t put it down, it took over! I haven’t read other reviews yet but I’m surprised the first ones I glanced at were mixed. But that’s how it goes sometimes. Luckily this one turned out to be my cup of tea 🥰💖 full review to come!
Vanessa has moved back to her home town and desires to reconnect with her family, especially her younger sister Lisa. Which leads to her agreeing, albeit very reluctantly, to take an old job she used to do back in college. Be a starter ex. The goal? Create a toxic romance with the man Lisa secretly loves in order to look her worst while her sister looks her best to win the would-be lover over. Except, the would-be lover in question, Jason, is not at all interested in Lisa...but with one eye on Vanessa's antics and another on her heart, the target might just turn the tables on our starter ex.
This is a book where every facet of it simply worked for me. I immediately clicked with it and stayed locked in until the end. Literally, no notes, just all love! And fun! And swoons! And some angst too! I was simply invested in every single way. But most especially in our heroine. I love Vanessa. I want the world for her! If only she'd think the same about herself. Vanessa lives with much guilt and shame, and it's led to valuing herself less and less. To feeling she doesn't deserve more, so she looks to lift others up, even if that means at the expense of herself. And what we see from this narrative, this journey, is Vanessa overcoming her biggest hurdle: herself. She learns to battle and defeat her self-defeat, to reflect upon her priceless worth, and to embrace the love that's always been waiting with arms wide open. As much as I utterly adored the love story with Jason, it's the self-love arc of Vanessa that had me tearing up and filling my heart to the brim with love.
And another person to fill one's heart of love for, is our other protagonist, Jason. The synopsis cleverly hides away a certain twist when it comes to Jason's arc. It's a reveal that comes I'd say rather early, but I don't want to give it away. What I'll say it this facet of the narrative reinforces my feelings towards the whole story. I had a barrel of laughs with certain antics at hand but also my heart hurt over the miscommunication at play! Because it did bring some angst that will certainly cause future friction in that final act, but that's the stuff I love to eat up!
Jason is a terrific character. He can see through the mask Vanessa wears, to her true self beneath, and is a catalyst in her self-reflection that begins her journey back to valuing herself and allowing herself grace in mistakes made and learned. He challenges her in such a positive way that heightens that electric current running through them. Because even with a lie between them, they still manage to connect with their true selves. Vanessa also serves as catalyst in Jason's own journey. He is resistant in taking risks that could lead to a fuller, more loving life. And that can have him lose out in what matters most, and a certain incident that leads to a certain consequence can see him losing what he now needs most in life. Vanessa's presence in his life basically brings him to life. She's the rainbow filling his life with every vibrant color, and he must make the choice in allowing those colors in or going back to a very monotone, safe-guarded life. I think we know which way he'll go, but gosh, how I loved and rooted for him to get there!
I also loved Vanessa's family. She has grown distant to them, to the point she felt estranged from her sister. But they love her, she may be blind to how much, but oh how they love her and have her back. Including her sister Lisa. And this was actually happy surprise for me, because initially I felt reluctant to like Lisa as I did not like how she pushed Vanessa into taking up her starter ex role. But, like her sister, Lisa grows! She may not have a POV but we see enough to know she's having her own journey of self-actualization and it's a subplot that wholly endeared me to her.
From main leads, to their romance, to the supporting cast, I found so much to delight in...and so much to love! I wouldn't change a thing about this gorgeous read!
Thank you Putnam and NetGalley for this complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
_____
original post-read quick thoughts
I have to say I was a bit shook walking into all the mixed reviews in here ! I just finished this book and loooooved it! It wasn’t even my main read but I simply couldn’t put it down, it took over! I haven’t read other reviews yet but I’m surprised the first ones I glanced at were mixed. But that’s how it goes sometimes. Luckily this one turned out to be my cup of tea 🥰💖 full review to come!
February 28, 2024
Vanessa Cordero had a side hustle in college, she was a starter ex. Women (and once a man) hired her to date the person they were interested in, be the worst possible girlfriend, and let the customer swoop in and be the sunshine after the storm. She is transferred by her boss back to her hometown, New York City, without her input. As she's reconnecting with her family, her sister Lisa, learns about the part time past. Now Lisa wants her to take on the task one final time. Jason Torres doesn't want a commitment, ever. HIs sister is getting married which is prime opportunity for his mom to play matchmaker with the first 30 women she sees. What does he need? A date for the wedding, a woman to keep his mom from meddling. In walks his sister's best friend Lisa, who has always had a crush on him. But he's not interested. But who comes with her? Her sister Vanessa. Maybe he'll give it a shot, can't hurt if it keeps his mom from setting him up. Will Vanessa be able to pass him off to her sister? Can Jason ignore the building feelings he has?
Mia Sosa writes stories that make me laugh out loud and swoon, the magic combination. I wasn't sure how this would go because it seemed like a recipe for disaster. A woman fake dating her sisters crush? But Mia Sosa made it work in a way that was totally believable! I love all the Latine representation, the Spanish throughout, the food, and the acknowledgement that the Latinx community comes in all different shades, even all the people from the same country aren't a monolith! I would recommend this book to fans of workplace romance, fake dating, How to Lose a Guy in 1o Days, Latinx romance, Puerto Rican representation, and steamy romance.
Mia Sosa writes stories that make me laugh out loud and swoon, the magic combination. I wasn't sure how this would go because it seemed like a recipe for disaster. A woman fake dating her sisters crush? But Mia Sosa made it work in a way that was totally believable! I love all the Latine representation, the Spanish throughout, the food, and the acknowledgement that the Latinx community comes in all different shades, even all the people from the same country aren't a monolith! I would recommend this book to fans of workplace romance, fake dating, How to Lose a Guy in 1o Days, Latinx romance, Puerto Rican representation, and steamy romance.
April 19, 2024
First things first, The Starter Ex came up on my free to listen on Audible, so this was a no brainer. I adore Mia Sosa and I knew this would be a fun one. The narrators were great and I really liked how they brought life to Vanessa and Jason. They did a great job with all the other characters and their performance was a highlight for me.
Now, the story. I really liked the idea of this game Vanessa had. Well, a job of sorts. To help people find their loves by being the "starter ex". By dating the person before who they were supposed to fall in love with. To make herself just likable enough, but having her crazy outweigh everything leading them to the person that they were supposed to be with. Fun premise, right? When Vanessa's sister Lisa finds out she had done this, she knows it would be the perfect opportunity for her and the person she wants to fall in love with her. Jason. AND this is where the story frustrated me a little bit. If I were the love interest, I would not want to date sisters. And both Lisa and Vanessa should've known this would be awkward. BUT, I suspended by thoughts to enjoy the story for what it was and tried to forget that they were sisters.
Having put those thoughts aside, this was a cute story. I liked the little things Vanessa did to woo Jason and then to make herself seem too kooky for him. It was entertaining and pushed both Vanessa and Jason's boundaries. But what I liked most was how Jason made everything so laissez faire, making Vanessa a bit frustrated and therefore falling for the guy that was kind and put up with her.
Overall, a cute story with some family issues that made the characters who they were but also had to work through things. If the whole ex game wasn't between sisters, I would've enjoyed the story more, but still found it entertaining with great narrators. 3.5 stars.
Now, the story. I really liked the idea of this game Vanessa had. Well, a job of sorts. To help people find their loves by being the "starter ex". By dating the person before who they were supposed to fall in love with. To make herself just likable enough, but having her crazy outweigh everything leading them to the person that they were supposed to be with. Fun premise, right? When Vanessa's sister Lisa finds out she had done this, she knows it would be the perfect opportunity for her and the person she wants to fall in love with her. Jason. AND this is where the story frustrated me a little bit. If I were the love interest, I would not want to date sisters. And both Lisa and Vanessa should've known this would be awkward. BUT, I suspended by thoughts to enjoy the story for what it was and tried to forget that they were sisters.
Having put those thoughts aside, this was a cute story. I liked the little things Vanessa did to woo Jason and then to make herself seem too kooky for him. It was entertaining and pushed both Vanessa and Jason's boundaries. But what I liked most was how Jason made everything so laissez faire, making Vanessa a bit frustrated and therefore falling for the guy that was kind and put up with her.
Overall, a cute story with some family issues that made the characters who they were but also had to work through things. If the whole ex game wasn't between sisters, I would've enjoyed the story more, but still found it entertaining with great narrators. 3.5 stars.
February 23, 2025
The Starter Ex by Mia Sosa (2024)
7h 59m narrated by Noah B. Perez and Miranda Jay
Genre: Multicultural Romantic Comedy
Featuring: Dating Other Women's Crushes, Maneater, Homecoming Trope, New York City, New York; Chicago, Illinois; Estranged Family, Sisters, College Alumni, Harlem, New York; Spanish, Wedding Events, I Can See The Train Wreck From Here, Puerto Rican LI, Sexual Innuendos, Sister's Crush, Best Friend's Brother, Secret Fake Dating, Pisces MC, Cancer LI, Black Puerto Rican MC, Food, Sex - Detailed, Drama, Identity Issues, Author's Note
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Amorfoda" by Bad Bunny, "Gasolina" by Daddy Yankee, "Celebration" by Kool & The Gang, "Just Can’t Get Enough" by Black Eyed Peas
Books and Authors mentioned: Misery by Stephen King, Bridgerton Series by Julia Quinn
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🗽🇵🇷🌹💒👩🏾❤️💋👨🏽
My thoughts: This is the second story I've experienced from Mia Sosa, the first was Son of a Beach, and it has been chilling in my Audible Library for over a year and I kinda regret that. I'm adding The Worst Best Man to my shortlist. This story features a few of my least favorite tropes, [siblings and triangles], and early on I could see exactly what was going to happen and I wasn't excited about it. However, Mia wrote a hilarious tale that made this pill of a plot very enjoyable.
Recommend to others: Yes, don't let it sit in your library, it's a great story.
7h 59m narrated by Noah B. Perez and Miranda Jay
Genre: Multicultural Romantic Comedy
Featuring: Dating Other Women's Crushes, Maneater, Homecoming Trope, New York City, New York; Chicago, Illinois; Estranged Family, Sisters, College Alumni, Harlem, New York; Spanish, Wedding Events, I Can See The Train Wreck From Here, Puerto Rican LI, Sexual Innuendos, Sister's Crush, Best Friend's Brother, Secret Fake Dating, Pisces MC, Cancer LI, Black Puerto Rican MC, Food, Sex - Detailed, Drama, Identity Issues, Author's Note
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Amorfoda" by Bad Bunny, "Gasolina" by Daddy Yankee, "Celebration" by Kool & The Gang, "Just Can’t Get Enough" by Black Eyed Peas
Books and Authors mentioned: Misery by Stephen King, Bridgerton Series by Julia Quinn
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🗽🇵🇷🌹💒👩🏾❤️💋👨🏽
My thoughts: This is the second story I've experienced from Mia Sosa, the first was Son of a Beach, and it has been chilling in my Audible Library for over a year and I kinda regret that. I'm adding The Worst Best Man to my shortlist. This story features a few of my least favorite tropes, [siblings and triangles], and early on I could see exactly what was going to happen and I wasn't excited about it. However, Mia wrote a hilarious tale that made this pill of a plot very enjoyable.
Recommend to others: Yes, don't let it sit in your library, it's a great story.
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