What do you think?
Rate this book
Win a free print copy of this book!
5 days and 19:06:22
30 copies available
U.S. only
How to Write a Love Story
Not yet published
Expected 10 Mar 26Win a free print copy of this book!
5 days and 19:06:22
30 copies available
U.S. only
The newest book from bestselling author and Kindle Unlimited sensation Catherine Walsh, in which an ambitious editor travels to Ireland to help the daughter of a fantasy author legend complete her father’s final book, only to fall in love with her in the process.
Ciara Sheridan’s father has left her with three a sprawling and distinctly ramshackle estate on the Irish coast, the outline for the finale to his bestselling epic fantasy series that he wanted her to finish—and writer’s block.
Enter Sam Frank Sheridan fanboy and hotshot editor, sent from the New York publishing house direct to Ciara’s doorstep. Ciara was expecting a crusty old-timer, so the handsome young American is a surprise. And for his part, Sam was expecting Ciara to have written something by now.
Ciara and Sam have two weeks of the hottest Irish summer on record to write this novel together and secure Frank’s legacy—but will their own love story be the plot twist neither of them see coming?
Ciara Sheridan’s father has left her with three a sprawling and distinctly ramshackle estate on the Irish coast, the outline for the finale to his bestselling epic fantasy series that he wanted her to finish—and writer’s block.
Enter Sam Frank Sheridan fanboy and hotshot editor, sent from the New York publishing house direct to Ciara’s doorstep. Ciara was expecting a crusty old-timer, so the handsome young American is a surprise. And for his part, Sam was expecting Ciara to have written something by now.
Ciara and Sam have two weeks of the hottest Irish summer on record to write this novel together and secure Frank’s legacy—but will their own love story be the plot twist neither of them see coming?
352 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 10, 2026
47 people are currently reading
28020 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Walsh
8 books3,170 followersI'm not on here anymore!
You can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catwalshwri...
You can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catwalshwri...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
January 27, 2026
[arc review] I want to start off this review by saying this book is going to be one of the best upcoming summer releases of 2026.
this is my first book by catherine walsh—and it certainly won’t be my last. I absolutely devoured this, and now I’m adding all her work to my TBR.
‘how to write a love story’ is a slow burn romance that follows sam avery and ciara sheridan in the first pov.
the story is fleshed out enough that you get to learn about each individual character beyond the romance.
the romance isn’t at the forefront of the plot—which made for a good story because it’s not integral to it and felt like an added extra. I loved that sam and ciara got to know each other as friends before exploring anything romantic.
the main plot of the story is the book ciara is writing, and the relationship she has with herself, her friends, her career, and the community she’s grown up in.
meeting sam means ciara has to face some of her anxieties head on—with an impending deadline—and learn to live with them than to run in the opposite direction.
I loved the instant chemistry where it felt like—despite knowing each other less than 24 hours—they had known each other for years. there’s a good mix of banter, moments of sincerity, and the right amount of spice that it doesn’t take away from the plot.
there was some solid side characters that felt important to the story and how it progressed. I’m very excited for a potential a second book for maddie!
“I think I need to be clear, that given the choice, I would choose you every time.”
overall this is one of my favourite books I’ve read this year, and I’m looking forward to reading it again when it’s published.
a huge thank you to little brown for the advance reader copy—you guys singlehandedly saved me from a reading slump with this!
*update* little brown sent me a physical arc and it is stunning !!! I can’t wait to read it again ahead of release ⭐️⭐️⭐️
this is my first book by catherine walsh—and it certainly won’t be my last. I absolutely devoured this, and now I’m adding all her work to my TBR.
‘how to write a love story’ is a slow burn romance that follows sam avery and ciara sheridan in the first pov.
the story is fleshed out enough that you get to learn about each individual character beyond the romance.
the romance isn’t at the forefront of the plot—which made for a good story because it’s not integral to it and felt like an added extra. I loved that sam and ciara got to know each other as friends before exploring anything romantic.
the main plot of the story is the book ciara is writing, and the relationship she has with herself, her friends, her career, and the community she’s grown up in.
meeting sam means ciara has to face some of her anxieties head on—with an impending deadline—and learn to live with them than to run in the opposite direction.
I loved the instant chemistry where it felt like—despite knowing each other less than 24 hours—they had known each other for years. there’s a good mix of banter, moments of sincerity, and the right amount of spice that it doesn’t take away from the plot.
there was some solid side characters that felt important to the story and how it progressed. I’m very excited for a potential a second book for maddie!
“I think I need to be clear, that given the choice, I would choose you every time.”
overall this is one of my favourite books I’ve read this year, and I’m looking forward to reading it again when it’s published.
a huge thank you to little brown for the advance reader copy—you guys singlehandedly saved me from a reading slump with this!
*update* little brown sent me a physical arc and it is stunning !!! I can’t wait to read it again ahead of release ⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 3, 2026
I love a Catherine Walsh book and How to Write a Love Story is one of my favorite romances of 2025.
This book was everything I could have hoped for, and everything I love about romance novels. It has a wonderfully ideal Irish coast setting, a cast of quaint secondary characters, and a romance with easy chemistry but not without the tension or angst.
When our main character is tasked with finishing her deceased father's final book in his world famous fantasy series, she finds that her writers block is more than she can bear. Enter charming literary agent Sam Frank, who is this series biggest fan -- sent to Ireland to help her find her way again.
This beautiful slow burn romance swept me off my feet from the very first few chapters. The house that the book is set in is almost a charming character in and of itself. This book has all the right amounts of depth, healing, banter and sincerity. I found the romance to feel authentic in tone to reality. The conflict was also realistic as all the pressures of legacy, history, failure and love come together in a tangled heap.
I was enchanted and so glad I was able to snag this one early. If this is how 2026 is starting off with romance reads, I am already in the best of company.
This book was everything I could have hoped for, and everything I love about romance novels. It has a wonderfully ideal Irish coast setting, a cast of quaint secondary characters, and a romance with easy chemistry but not without the tension or angst.
When our main character is tasked with finishing her deceased father's final book in his world famous fantasy series, she finds that her writers block is more than she can bear. Enter charming literary agent Sam Frank, who is this series biggest fan -- sent to Ireland to help her find her way again.
This beautiful slow burn romance swept me off my feet from the very first few chapters. The house that the book is set in is almost a charming character in and of itself. This book has all the right amounts of depth, healing, banter and sincerity. I found the romance to feel authentic in tone to reality. The conflict was also realistic as all the pressures of legacy, history, failure and love come together in a tangled heap.
I was enchanted and so glad I was able to snag this one early. If this is how 2026 is starting off with romance reads, I am already in the best of company.
November 15, 2025
CAN YOU ALL HEAR ME SCREAMING FOR YOU TO ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR ??!!!!!!
I had absolute fun reading this book till 5 in the morning.
This is a story of Ciara an author whose talent was overshadowed by her father her whole life, who was a legendary author but some circumstances made her face it all.
And she had her editor Sam, who made her face it all with as much comfort and ease as he could provide.
Carrigwest is a small community where everyone looks after each other in their own crazy wayyy.
It's an amazing feeling well you apply for a random ARC and it turns out to be one of the best, you ever readddd.
This was my first book by Catherine and what a way to begin !! It clicked instantly for me, and I practically inhaled the whole thing.
This book has such a perfect balance of humour and sentiment, sarcasm and heartfelt moments. When I first started it, I expected a typical rom-com full of laughs, but it surprised me with its emotional depth. It has overwhelming emotions, but never overshadowing the light parts, just the right touch. This was my first EditorXAuthor trope read and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. Every character was hilarious not only the main characters but side characters too, it was so much fun to read.
It was genuinely refreshing to see the behind-the-scenes reality of what both editors and authors deal with. The struggles, the meltdowns, the writer’s block, and the nerves. Seeing the pressure they face, and how reader expectations aren’t always only exciting but can be overwhelming, made the story feel so real. And how the editor’s honesty and steady support, is important in shaping the story so readers get the best version possible. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the process.
I’m counting down the days for Maddie and Shane’s book! Every character was such a delight to read—no dull moments, no cheesy filler. From Mary’s gossip, to Ronan brewing whiskey in the bathtub, to Casey being an unexpected father figure. I adored all of them. They were hilarious and endlessly fun.
All I'm saying is BE READY TO GET OBSESSED WITH IT IN COMING SUMMER !! ⛱️🏝️
thank you netgally and little, brown book for the ARC.
I had absolute fun reading this book till 5 in the morning.
This is a story of Ciara an author whose talent was overshadowed by her father her whole life, who was a legendary author but some circumstances made her face it all.
And she had her editor Sam, who made her face it all with as much comfort and ease as he could provide.
Carrigwest is a small community where everyone looks after each other in their own crazy wayyy.
It's an amazing feeling well you apply for a random ARC and it turns out to be one of the best, you ever readddd.
This was my first book by Catherine and what a way to begin !! It clicked instantly for me, and I practically inhaled the whole thing.
This book has such a perfect balance of humour and sentiment, sarcasm and heartfelt moments. When I first started it, I expected a typical rom-com full of laughs, but it surprised me with its emotional depth. It has overwhelming emotions, but never overshadowing the light parts, just the right touch. This was my first EditorXAuthor trope read and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. Every character was hilarious not only the main characters but side characters too, it was so much fun to read.
It was genuinely refreshing to see the behind-the-scenes reality of what both editors and authors deal with. The struggles, the meltdowns, the writer’s block, and the nerves. Seeing the pressure they face, and how reader expectations aren’t always only exciting but can be overwhelming, made the story feel so real. And how the editor’s honesty and steady support, is important in shaping the story so readers get the best version possible. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the process.
I’m counting down the days for Maddie and Shane’s book! Every character was such a delight to read—no dull moments, no cheesy filler. From Mary’s gossip, to Ronan brewing whiskey in the bathtub, to Casey being an unexpected father figure. I adored all of them. They were hilarious and endlessly fun.
All I'm saying is BE READY TO GET OBSESSED WITH IT IN COMING SUMMER !! ⛱️🏝️
thank you netgally and little, brown book for the ARC.
December 25, 2025
Catherine Walsh delivers yet again - probably one of the best romance novels I've ever read. One that sticks with you and I'd recommend to everyone. Enjoy! & thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Want to read
September 28, 2025catherine walsh just automatically saved 2026 with this announcement
November 10, 2025
4.5
I adored this book. It is such a cozy uplifting romance.
Ciara Sheridan's father is a famous writer. She is left heartbroken when he passes and overwhelmed with the sprawling infamous estate, located in Ireland. He wanted Ciara to finish the last book in his very famous and loved series. But it proves to be a very challenging task. So, the publisher sends their hot shot editor, Sam, to help her get through the writing process.
Sam and Ciara captured my heart. So did the town and the side characters. Every character was so lovable. It is such a delightful and beautiful love story that kept me flipping the pages.
The love story is a slow burn with excellent genuine build up and tension. Some of their time is spent off page so I can see why people may feel like the romance was rushed, but I think it was executed perfectly. This is a rom-com with emotional depth and great character development. There was a bit of a third-act-breakup that had me rolling my eyes and made me slow my reading with apprehension. Thankfully, the end redeemed that discomfort for me.
This is more than a romance. It's also about writing, publishing, editing, fandom, grief, and healing. It was highly fascinating and engaging.
Read this if you like:
Forced proximity
Witty banter
Ireland setting
Dual pov
I would recommend this charming and heartfelt book.
Thank you Dutton Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
I adored this book. It is such a cozy uplifting romance.
Ciara Sheridan's father is a famous writer. She is left heartbroken when he passes and overwhelmed with the sprawling infamous estate, located in Ireland. He wanted Ciara to finish the last book in his very famous and loved series. But it proves to be a very challenging task. So, the publisher sends their hot shot editor, Sam, to help her get through the writing process.
Sam and Ciara captured my heart. So did the town and the side characters. Every character was so lovable. It is such a delightful and beautiful love story that kept me flipping the pages.
The love story is a slow burn with excellent genuine build up and tension. Some of their time is spent off page so I can see why people may feel like the romance was rushed, but I think it was executed perfectly. This is a rom-com with emotional depth and great character development. There was a bit of a third-act-breakup that had me rolling my eyes and made me slow my reading with apprehension. Thankfully, the end redeemed that discomfort for me.
This is more than a romance. It's also about writing, publishing, editing, fandom, grief, and healing. It was highly fascinating and engaging.
Read this if you like:
Forced proximity
Witty banter
Ireland setting
Dual pov
I would recommend this charming and heartfelt book.
Thank you Dutton Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 19, 2026
4.5!
Practically perfect in every way! I love Catherine Walsh’s books and this one is for sure my favorite! Love Ciara. Love Sam. Love it all!
I read this in about 12 hours and truly couldn’t put it down. If you’re an Emily Henry fan I highly recommend! The banter was so fun and the tension was DELICIOUS.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the arc!
Practically perfect in every way! I love Catherine Walsh’s books and this one is for sure my favorite! Love Ciara. Love Sam. Love it all!
I read this in about 12 hours and truly couldn’t put it down. If you’re an Emily Henry fan I highly recommend! The banter was so fun and the tension was DELICIOUS.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the arc!
Read
September 16, 2025I have very complicated feelings about this book but i will say that obsession that non-american authors have with appealing to the american idea of a HEA for marketing purposes being an engagement and/or baby drives me up the wall.
Received a digital arc from the publisher.
Received a digital arc from the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Who's ready for a new Catherine Walsh?! (Me, always me)
November 25, 2025
Thank you, @duttonbooks, for the #gifted eARC to read in exchange for my honest thoughts.
🔥🔥 1.5ish open door scenes
CW: Death of a parent (off page and in the past, but talked about)
Ciara is writing the long-awaited conclusion to the 10 book fantasy series written by her late father. And Sam is her editor. She’s quirky and frustrating. And it’s his job to make sure the book gets done. Oh and it’s set in Ireland. Need I say more?
Wow, this was a pure delight to read! Catherine Walsh just has a way with words that makes me grin like an idiot and giggle non-stop. Seriously, she is a funny funny girl (also, do you follow her on instagram? She is a funny funny girl on there, too).
I really just loved this book. I easily devoured it in a day, because it was so much fun! I loved Ciara and Sam’s relationship and how it grew while she wrote and he edited. It naturally flowed from a co-worker type relationship to a friendship to more.
I also love books about the book/editing/publishing/writing world and this one fully delivered. I think we all have a certain special book series we grew up reading and loving and waiting impatiently for every single book to be released - and if that’s you, you will feel seen and honored in this book. Ciara does not take finishing her father’s legacy lightly and honestly it just felt very honoring and lovely. It sort of made me feel nostaglic for the classic stories of my childhood and through feeling that, I could really understand the weight Ciera was under as an author.
Read if you like books set in Ireland, dual POV, forced proximity, excellent banter, laughing, books that give a peek into the publishing and editing world, books with an author FMC, and an overall low-stakes and delightful read.
🔥🔥 1.5ish open door scenes
CW: Death of a parent (off page and in the past, but talked about)
Ciara is writing the long-awaited conclusion to the 10 book fantasy series written by her late father. And Sam is her editor. She’s quirky and frustrating. And it’s his job to make sure the book gets done. Oh and it’s set in Ireland. Need I say more?
Wow, this was a pure delight to read! Catherine Walsh just has a way with words that makes me grin like an idiot and giggle non-stop. Seriously, she is a funny funny girl (also, do you follow her on instagram? She is a funny funny girl on there, too).
I really just loved this book. I easily devoured it in a day, because it was so much fun! I loved Ciara and Sam’s relationship and how it grew while she wrote and he edited. It naturally flowed from a co-worker type relationship to a friendship to more.
I also love books about the book/editing/publishing/writing world and this one fully delivered. I think we all have a certain special book series we grew up reading and loving and waiting impatiently for every single book to be released - and if that’s you, you will feel seen and honored in this book. Ciara does not take finishing her father’s legacy lightly and honestly it just felt very honoring and lovely. It sort of made me feel nostaglic for the classic stories of my childhood and through feeling that, I could really understand the weight Ciera was under as an author.
Read if you like books set in Ireland, dual POV, forced proximity, excellent banter, laughing, books that give a peek into the publishing and editing world, books with an author FMC, and an overall low-stakes and delightful read.
December 23, 2025
ARC Review - thank you to NetGalley and Hachette for the early read!
This book is, quite simply, the cutest thing I’ve read in a long time!!!
Yes, there is a romance at the centre of it - like one of the most genuinely lovely and grounded ones I’ve read in a long time. But this story is also a full-blown love letter to small towns. The kind where everyone knows everyone, where community matters, and where people and places are deeply entwined. If you’re a small-town girly, you’ll understand exactly why this hit differently.
This is comfort reading at its best: sunshiny, heart-happy, little feet kicks and deeply charming. It’s funny in that quiet, observational way, and emotionally satisfying without ever feeling heavy-handed. The kind of book you finish with a smile and immediately start thinking about who you’re going to recommend it to.
A five-star, feel-good read that absolutely did what it came to do. Thanks Catherine Walsh - I needed this one ☺️
This book is, quite simply, the cutest thing I’ve read in a long time!!!
Yes, there is a romance at the centre of it - like one of the most genuinely lovely and grounded ones I’ve read in a long time. But this story is also a full-blown love letter to small towns. The kind where everyone knows everyone, where community matters, and where people and places are deeply entwined. If you’re a small-town girly, you’ll understand exactly why this hit differently.
This is comfort reading at its best: sunshiny, heart-happy, little feet kicks and deeply charming. It’s funny in that quiet, observational way, and emotionally satisfying without ever feeling heavy-handed. The kind of book you finish with a smile and immediately start thinking about who you’re going to recommend it to.
A five-star, feel-good read that absolutely did what it came to do. Thanks Catherine Walsh - I needed this one ☺️
January 25, 2026
I looooved this! Catherine Walsh just has such a knack for creating stories that I can picture so vividly, I loved the small town setting and the characters and the premise! I loved that Ciara was grumpy and a bit of a hot mess, and I loved seeing her fall for Sam and start to let him in. I’m such a sucker for stories set in the book world and I loved seeing glimpses of the writing and publishing process.
The love story was so sweet and soft, it was a slow build up and I really felt the chemistry between Sam and Ciara.
I’m really hoping there’s a second book about Maddie and Shane too 🤭
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!
The love story was so sweet and soft, it was a slow build up and I really felt the chemistry between Sam and Ciara.
I’m really hoping there’s a second book about Maddie and Shane too 🤭
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!
remind-me-once-out
July 11, 2025I'm going to need this. In my hands. ASAP.
December 25, 2025
Such a good book!!!
Ciara is our FMC who is a writer in Ireland tasked with completing the last book of the most popular series with her recently late father. At her aid is Sam, an editor from NYC, flown in to help Ciara stay on track. Ciara is obviously hesitant of their professional relationship due to Sam being a 'mega-fan' of her fathers' series, but lines start to blur even more when they push the workplace boundaries.
I found this book extremely entertaining and heartwarming. It was definitely emotional as we are reading about Ciara move through grieving her father. Seeing Ciara open up after that tragic event to Sam, and all of the people close to her, was relieving to say the least. I truly believe Sam was a pinnacle part in Ciara grieving, and writing, journey, and they definitely needed each other in the end!
Thank you to NetGalley for proving and ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Ciara is our FMC who is a writer in Ireland tasked with completing the last book of the most popular series with her recently late father. At her aid is Sam, an editor from NYC, flown in to help Ciara stay on track. Ciara is obviously hesitant of their professional relationship due to Sam being a 'mega-fan' of her fathers' series, but lines start to blur even more when they push the workplace boundaries.
I found this book extremely entertaining and heartwarming. It was definitely emotional as we are reading about Ciara move through grieving her father. Seeing Ciara open up after that tragic event to Sam, and all of the people close to her, was relieving to say the least. I truly believe Sam was a pinnacle part in Ciara grieving, and writing, journey, and they definitely needed each other in the end!
Thank you to NetGalley for proving and ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
September 8, 2025
talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before, unafraid to reference or not reference, put it in a blender, shit on it, vomit on it, eat it, give birth to it.
[full review to come]
[full review to come]
Want to read
October 22, 2025Y'all, I think I need this book because my name is Ciera, and my husband's name is Sam.
February 4, 2026
• Adjusted Rating: 4.25 stars!!
• POV: 1st Person / Dual
• Book Spice: Level 2
• Content Thoughts:
This book flowed so well from beginning to end. The emotional moments had weight to them, especially the romance. There was a natural build up that gave the characters time to actually grow into their feelings instead of everything happening all at once. You could feel their interest in each other developing in a believable way.
I was also really fascinated by the look into the publishing world. Seeing the life of a writer and an editor from the inside made the whole story even more interesting. It honestly made me more curious about the industry as a whole. The amount of work that goes into editing and supporting an author is wild, and I loved that the book leaned into that. I’m always a fan of stories that gently poke fun at their own world, especially when it’s clear the author has real experience with it.
The main storyline about continuing a book series after the father’s passing was interesting to follow and I was invested in knowing what would happen. The mix of grief and self-doubt felt very real. Taking on something that big while mourning a loved one is not easy and giving us that journey to follow added to the overall plot. I also loved how the story balanced that with humor and romance.
The setting was great, the banter was bantering 🤭 , and the dialogue felt like how real couples actually would talk to each other. And I already need a book about Shane and Maddie. That rival-to-lovers setup has so much potential and sounds like it would be so fun to read.
Again, I loved the storytelling, the emotional elements, and the view into book publishing. This one just worked for me.
Thank you Dutton for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
• POV: 1st Person / Dual
• Book Spice: Level 2
• Content Thoughts:
This book flowed so well from beginning to end. The emotional moments had weight to them, especially the romance. There was a natural build up that gave the characters time to actually grow into their feelings instead of everything happening all at once. You could feel their interest in each other developing in a believable way.
I was also really fascinated by the look into the publishing world. Seeing the life of a writer and an editor from the inside made the whole story even more interesting. It honestly made me more curious about the industry as a whole. The amount of work that goes into editing and supporting an author is wild, and I loved that the book leaned into that. I’m always a fan of stories that gently poke fun at their own world, especially when it’s clear the author has real experience with it.
The main storyline about continuing a book series after the father’s passing was interesting to follow and I was invested in knowing what would happen. The mix of grief and self-doubt felt very real. Taking on something that big while mourning a loved one is not easy and giving us that journey to follow added to the overall plot. I also loved how the story balanced that with humor and romance.
The setting was great, the banter was bantering 🤭 , and the dialogue felt like how real couples actually would talk to each other. And I already need a book about Shane and Maddie. That rival-to-lovers setup has so much potential and sounds like it would be so fun to read.
Again, I loved the storytelling, the emotional elements, and the view into book publishing. This one just worked for me.
Thank you Dutton for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2026
“Hilarious, magical, and swoon-worthy” - me (and every professional reviewer, probably)
If you have not had the chance to read anything by Catherine Walsh, then you’re living in a dull, diluted version of this world. She brings so much color and life to her characters (main and side) and this book was no exception.
Ciara and Sam were so wonderfully written, but the side characters were what really pushed this book to 5 stars for me. Often times, side characters either fall flat or take up too much of the storyline, but Walsh writes them so perfectly every time.
This book was the perfect mixture of romance and humor, while also keeping me intrigued with the main plot of the story. I finished it so quickly because I wanted to know how everything going on with our main characters was resolved.
Walsh has the ability to suck you in from start to finish and leaves you feeling like you’ve lived inside the story. The premise of this book was so refreshing and I loved that it felt unique and not like every other romance I’ve read in the past.
If this isn’t already on your TBR for March, you need to add it now and thank me later 😮💨
Thank you Net Galley for the early read!
If you have not had the chance to read anything by Catherine Walsh, then you’re living in a dull, diluted version of this world. She brings so much color and life to her characters (main and side) and this book was no exception.
Ciara and Sam were so wonderfully written, but the side characters were what really pushed this book to 5 stars for me. Often times, side characters either fall flat or take up too much of the storyline, but Walsh writes them so perfectly every time.
This book was the perfect mixture of romance and humor, while also keeping me intrigued with the main plot of the story. I finished it so quickly because I wanted to know how everything going on with our main characters was resolved.
Walsh has the ability to suck you in from start to finish and leaves you feeling like you’ve lived inside the story. The premise of this book was so refreshing and I loved that it felt unique and not like every other romance I’ve read in the past.
If this isn’t already on your TBR for March, you need to add it now and thank me later 😮💨
Thank you Net Galley for the early read!
October 12, 2025
I loved it 🥺🥰
I giggled I teared up I fell in love with all the characters
Catherine Walsh is SO talented at writing funny and loveable people (not just Ciara and Sam but their friends and colleagues and everyone in the village)
I can't wait to get my own physical copy so I can highlight all the parts that made me laugh and kick my feet
Infinite thank yous to Dutton and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I might even read it again before it comes out who knows 😂
I giggled I teared up I fell in love with all the characters
Catherine Walsh is SO talented at writing funny and loveable people (not just Ciara and Sam but their friends and colleagues and everyone in the village)
I can't wait to get my own physical copy so I can highlight all the parts that made me laugh and kick my feet
Infinite thank yous to Dutton and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I might even read it again before it comes out who knows 😂
February 1, 2026
this was a delight - especially when it comes in the form of a book about books! loved sam and ciara & appreciated the span across months to see their relationship come to life. i also greatly appreciated the focus on the side characters, the focus on each character’s personal development, and how it came together with the romance of it all. i’m excited for others to get the chance to enjoy the book this spring! i have a good feeling about it 🤭
thank you netgalley & dutton for the arc!!!
thank you netgalley & dutton for the arc!!!
September 16, 2025
This book is so lovely and I was hooked the entire time. I was literally laughing from page one and I felt close to the characters the entire time. Awesome read, highly recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a really solid summer romance! Perfect for future beach reading and wanderlust inspiration due to its strongly written sense of place (seriously, I am now craving a trip around the Irish coast). I also liked all the characters, I think Catherine Walsh nailed the charm of a quirky supporting cast of small town residents without getting over the top with them.
I felt like the Shane and Maddie secondary plotline could get distracting at times, though if they get their own book I'd probably read it since they had good banter.
I also struggled to see the romantic connection between Sam and Ciara at first but once they really started getting together it was much stronger and well-written. They became a couple that I felt would truly go the distance post-epilogue!
The discussions of grief and the pressures of the book industry were very well done and balanced well with the lighter elements of the story. Overall a really strong book!
Thanks to Dutton and Netgalley for the eARC review copy ✌️
I felt like the Shane and Maddie secondary plotline could get distracting at times, though if they get their own book I'd probably read it since they had good banter.
I also struggled to see the romantic connection between Sam and Ciara at first but once they really started getting together it was much stronger and well-written. They became a couple that I felt would truly go the distance post-epilogue!
The discussions of grief and the pressures of the book industry were very well done and balanced well with the lighter elements of the story. Overall a really strong book!
Thanks to Dutton and Netgalley for the eARC review copy ✌️
February 9, 2026
3.75⭐️
September 22, 2025
Read if you like: forced proximity, dual pov, workplace romance, author x editor, small town
This book was fine. There’s nothing special about it, and it wasn’t bad.
Ciara has a lot of pressure to finish her late father’s best selling fantasy series. She hasn’t written in years and is experiencing the worst writer’s block/life block. Sam is assigned as her editor and flies to her small town to try help her finish the book.
It made me so angry for Sam to stick up to strangers who were TRESPASSING on private property. Like get fkd?? She doesn’t have to be nice to anyone who randomly shows up to her home and makes her feel unsafe. That’s such a MAN response 🙄
I don’t understand how they love each other. The whole story was about them working, where’s the relationship progression? One minute they’re working the next they’re kissing. I didn’t sense any chemistry or tension building up to it at all, ironically they mention this in the book - sometimes romance just happens and you don’t know how it gets there - but like that’s EXACTLY what I want from a romance book. I want the build up, the chemistry and tension. Maybe I’m being too harsh but I didn’t see any romance. I was more interested in Maddie and Shaun together because their fighting was so much more interesting.
I loved Holiday Romance, so this was a disappointment to me
Thank you so much Hachette Australia & New Zealand, Little Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for this ARC
This book was fine. There’s nothing special about it, and it wasn’t bad.
Ciara has a lot of pressure to finish her late father’s best selling fantasy series. She hasn’t written in years and is experiencing the worst writer’s block/life block. Sam is assigned as her editor and flies to her small town to try help her finish the book.
It made me so angry for Sam to stick up to strangers who were TRESPASSING on private property. Like get fkd?? She doesn’t have to be nice to anyone who randomly shows up to her home and makes her feel unsafe. That’s such a MAN response 🙄
I don’t understand how they love each other. The whole story was about them working, where’s the relationship progression? One minute they’re working the next they’re kissing. I didn’t sense any chemistry or tension building up to it at all, ironically they mention this in the book - sometimes romance just happens and you don’t know how it gets there - but like that’s EXACTLY what I want from a romance book. I want the build up, the chemistry and tension. Maybe I’m being too harsh but I didn’t see any romance. I was more interested in Maddie and Shaun together because their fighting was so much more interesting.
I loved Holiday Romance, so this was a disappointment to me
Thank you so much Hachette Australia & New Zealand, Little Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for this ARC
October 20, 2025
HOW TO WRITE A LOVE STORY by Catherine Walsh ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I LOVE Catherine’s holiday books, so I was beyond excited to get my hands on this one! The banter had me giggling, the romance had me swooning, and the setting had me booking a flight! One of my favorite parts about the book were all of the lovable side characters. They added so much to the story and made you love and understand the main characters more. The next time you need a romance for a weekend binge, grab this!
Ciara’s Father, a best selling fantasy author, has left her his home and his outline for his final fantasy novel after he passes away. Ciara is feeling the pressure to do it justice, and her editor, Sam, is here to try and help her. With a deadline nearing, these two have to figure out how to work together to make it happen.
Pub. Date: March 10, 2026.
Perfect if you like:
•Slow burn.
•Grief and healing.
•Small town Ireland setting.
•Hilarious banter.
•Forced proximity.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Mood: 🍩🌮
🚪: 24, 33
Ciara’s Father, a best selling fantasy author, has left her his home and his outline for his final fantasy novel after he passes away. Ciara is feeling the pressure to do it justice, and her editor, Sam, is here to try and help her. With a deadline nearing, these two have to figure out how to work together to make it happen.
Pub. Date: March 10, 2026.
Perfect if you like:
•Slow burn.
•Grief and healing.
•Small town Ireland setting.
•Hilarious banter.
•Forced proximity.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Mood: 🍩🌮
🚪: 24, 33
November 13, 2025
A wholesome and enjoyable romance read!
This is the first book I’ve read by Catherine Walsh but I’m definitely not going to stop. How to Write a Love Story is a slow burn romance set in rural Ireland (and a little bit of New York). Where an editor travels to Ireland to support one of his favourite authors daughters finish her father’s series. Ciara is struggling in the aftermath of her father’s death and I feel her grief is beautifully written and felt very real throughout the book.
The book built the tension between Sam and Ciara, with moments that made me went to laugh out loud or cringe with the characters and the supporting characters were loveable too.
I would thoroughly recommend this read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown for the ARC copy of this book!
This is the first book I’ve read by Catherine Walsh but I’m definitely not going to stop. How to Write a Love Story is a slow burn romance set in rural Ireland (and a little bit of New York). Where an editor travels to Ireland to support one of his favourite authors daughters finish her father’s series. Ciara is struggling in the aftermath of her father’s death and I feel her grief is beautifully written and felt very real throughout the book.
The book built the tension between Sam and Ciara, with moments that made me went to laugh out loud or cringe with the characters and the supporting characters were loveable too.
I would thoroughly recommend this read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown for the ARC copy of this book!
February 1, 2026
3.75⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was such a fun read! I love stories about writers and books, and this one really leaned into that in a way I enjoyed. The plot is more about finishing the book than the romance, so if you’re hoping for lots of romantic moments, it’s a bit lighter there. I also did wish a few moments had played out differently.
I’d love an interconnected standalone for Maddie and Shane—they’d make such a fun pair. Overall, it was an enjoyable story, and I’d definitely recommend it to fans of contemporary romance with a bookish twist. This one releases on March 10!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was such a fun read! I love stories about writers and books, and this one really leaned into that in a way I enjoyed. The plot is more about finishing the book than the romance, so if you’re hoping for lots of romantic moments, it’s a bit lighter there. I also did wish a few moments had played out differently.
I’d love an interconnected standalone for Maddie and Shane—they’d make such a fun pair. Overall, it was an enjoyable story, and I’d definitely recommend it to fans of contemporary romance with a bookish twist. This one releases on March 10!
October 6, 2025
SLAY . first things first . i love catherine walsh so bad - she is funny, endearing, and SO personable . i read everything she writes (even ig captions) bc i know it will make me smile and laugh !!
that being saidddd i liked this ! a lot ! loved it even ! the end made me want to twirl my hair and kick my feet and GIGGLE . but it took longer to get to the buzzy parts than i’m used to, and this is both a good and bad thing !
books marketed as romances suffer the misfortune of the genres tropes, so the reader expects to see romance fairly early — or at least a connection. This book being a “romance” instead of just “fiction” means that i had those expectations ! and i feel like my experience reading this was tainted bc of that. BUT I STILL LOVED IT ! awe
i found sam and ciara to be entirely relatable ! a big PLUS PLUS PLUS for catherine’s books is how the characters act like REAL PEOPLE ! no ridiculous third act conflicts !
tldr — this book was more about VERY RELUNCTANTLY writing a love story, and untangling the grief over the loss of a parent when so much of him is still alive in his writing.
good ass shit <3 thank u netgalleyyyy
that being saidddd i liked this ! a lot ! loved it even ! the end made me want to twirl my hair and kick my feet and GIGGLE . but it took longer to get to the buzzy parts than i’m used to, and this is both a good and bad thing !
books marketed as romances suffer the misfortune of the genres tropes, so the reader expects to see romance fairly early — or at least a connection. This book being a “romance” instead of just “fiction” means that i had those expectations ! and i feel like my experience reading this was tainted bc of that. BUT I STILL LOVED IT ! awe
i found sam and ciara to be entirely relatable ! a big PLUS PLUS PLUS for catherine’s books is how the characters act like REAL PEOPLE ! no ridiculous third act conflicts !
tldr — this book was more about VERY RELUNCTANTLY writing a love story, and untangling the grief over the loss of a parent when so much of him is still alive in his writing.
good ass shit <3 thank u netgalleyyyy
December 28, 2025
4.5 stars! This was so sweet in every way. I don’t normally enjoy books about writers, the publishing world etc. but I loved this one! It was done so incredibly well and each of the characters struggles felt real and raw.
I loved both Sam and Ciara and am so glad they got their hea 🥹
Cry count: 2
I need Maddie and Shane’s book asap! I knit the banter will be elite in that one!
I loved both Sam and Ciara and am so glad they got their hea 🥹
Cry count: 2
I need Maddie and Shane’s book asap! I knit the banter will be elite in that one!
September 19, 2025
This was easily a 5 star read for me. Do yourself a favour and read this as soon as possible!
We first meet Sam Avery, a hotshot editor focussed on climbing the ladder at his publishing house. He's very type A, determined, yet empathetic to his writers and friends struggles. His boss obviously agrees, and sends Sam on a mission to get one last book from the deceased estate of a best-selling fantasy author (who Sam is also a massive fanboy of).
Landing in Ireland in the middle of a heatwave, Sam is sent to find Ciara, the daughter of Frank Sheridan, and the last remaining hope to finish the Ravian series. He is used to coaxing greatness from fickle writers, but he is not prepared for the whirlwind that is Ciara.
Ciara Sheridan is floating day by day in the wake of her fathers' passing. Living in his country estate and helping her friend Maddie run her smoothie business on the Atlantic coast, she is happy to have faded from the public eye and prefers to spend her days in her small quiet town. Having agreed to finish the final novel in the series her father never completed, not only does she need to deal with writers block, there's also a very adamant New Yorker on her doorstep set on making sure she lives up to her fathers' writing legacy.
In a market as saturated as the romance genre, How To Write A Love Story stood out to me as a book about adults falling in love. Ciara and Sam are fully fleshed out people, with real emotions and baggage, and handle their issues like real adults do. They communicate, they admire each others qualities, and can understand that life isn't always easy, and it's all the more better for overcoming the obstacles in your way.
How To Write A Love Story is one of those rare romance novels that stay with you long after you've read it. Sweet, compassionate and full of love for the art of writing, Catherine Walsh has penned a beautiful story about the power of love, writing your own future, and staying true to your purpose.
A massive thank you to Hachette Australia and Netgalley for this ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
We first meet Sam Avery, a hotshot editor focussed on climbing the ladder at his publishing house. He's very type A, determined, yet empathetic to his writers and friends struggles. His boss obviously agrees, and sends Sam on a mission to get one last book from the deceased estate of a best-selling fantasy author (who Sam is also a massive fanboy of).
Landing in Ireland in the middle of a heatwave, Sam is sent to find Ciara, the daughter of Frank Sheridan, and the last remaining hope to finish the Ravian series. He is used to coaxing greatness from fickle writers, but he is not prepared for the whirlwind that is Ciara.
Ciara Sheridan is floating day by day in the wake of her fathers' passing. Living in his country estate and helping her friend Maddie run her smoothie business on the Atlantic coast, she is happy to have faded from the public eye and prefers to spend her days in her small quiet town. Having agreed to finish the final novel in the series her father never completed, not only does she need to deal with writers block, there's also a very adamant New Yorker on her doorstep set on making sure she lives up to her fathers' writing legacy.
In a market as saturated as the romance genre, How To Write A Love Story stood out to me as a book about adults falling in love. Ciara and Sam are fully fleshed out people, with real emotions and baggage, and handle their issues like real adults do. They communicate, they admire each others qualities, and can understand that life isn't always easy, and it's all the more better for overcoming the obstacles in your way.
How To Write A Love Story is one of those rare romance novels that stay with you long after you've read it. Sweet, compassionate and full of love for the art of writing, Catherine Walsh has penned a beautiful story about the power of love, writing your own future, and staying true to your purpose.
A massive thank you to Hachette Australia and Netgalley for this ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews