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What Did I Miss?
Listening Length 10 hours and 22 minutes
Married young. Finally divorced. Turning thirty ... A witty rom-com for all fans of Sally Thorne and Beth O'Leary.
Makayla has many a Chiko Roll impulse buy, not visiting the Big Pineapple and marrying her high-school dud.
Now, newly divorced, determined to hold on to her independence and facing the Big Three-O, Makayla makes a list of all the things she missed out on while her friends were single and running amok in their twenties.
But when her one-night stand turns up again, and a revenge plot on her ex spirals out of control, she has to decide if some things are worth missing. And if Makayla can't sort herself out before her birthday, she might face the biggest regret of her life.
A fresh and feisty romantic comedy about what happens when you meet someone special before truly knowing yourself.
Married young. Finally divorced. Turning thirty ... A witty rom-com for all fans of Sally Thorne and Beth O'Leary.
Makayla has many a Chiko Roll impulse buy, not visiting the Big Pineapple and marrying her high-school dud.
Now, newly divorced, determined to hold on to her independence and facing the Big Three-O, Makayla makes a list of all the things she missed out on while her friends were single and running amok in their twenties.
But when her one-night stand turns up again, and a revenge plot on her ex spirals out of control, she has to decide if some things are worth missing. And if Makayla can't sort herself out before her birthday, she might face the biggest regret of her life.
A fresh and feisty romantic comedy about what happens when you meet someone special before truly knowing yourself.
11 pages, Audiobook
First published July 1, 2025
20 people are currently reading
715 people want to read
About the author
Holly Brunnbauer
1 book37 followersHolly Brunnbauer is a multi-award-winning emerging fiction author with numerous accolades in writing competitions across Australia, New Zealand and the U.S.
Holly writes stories filled with heart, humour and hijinks. Her signature style includes a strong commercial voice, quirky cast and putting the 'com' in rom-com.
She first caught the writing bug via blogging and later transitioned into copywriting. Holly's now a sought-after virtual assistant for published and aspiring authors.
Based in rural Victoria, she spends her time with her husband, two rambunctious boys and a cheeky pug, planning and building their off-grid country home. The outdoors is her happy place.
Holly writes stories filled with heart, humour and hijinks. Her signature style includes a strong commercial voice, quirky cast and putting the 'com' in rom-com.
She first caught the writing bug via blogging and later transitioned into copywriting. Holly's now a sought-after virtual assistant for published and aspiring authors.
Based in rural Victoria, she spends her time with her husband, two rambunctious boys and a cheeky pug, planning and building their off-grid country home. The outdoors is her happy place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 11, 2025
Holly's debut was a breath of fresh air. A little bit naughty, a little bit spunky but mostly, very relatable. Also I was not at all expecting the FUNNY. This was very very humorous, added to this was good quality bantery narration.
I could sense Holly's era from the music and pop culture references, which I'm not sure entirely matched with the protagonists age, but it was still fun to pick up on the vibe, and the things I sensed she liked in real life, transferred on to Makayla.
Makayla is a feisty protagonist and about to turn 30, and quick to know what she wants (or not). Not so quick in owning up to her fears - she's definitely hiding from something, building BIG walls around those she likes. She's never even held her best friend's child - what's up with this?
Let down by a mediocre and disappointing husband, making the regretful move of marrying her high school sweetheart - the only guy she'd been with. Now is the time to make up for this, she wants some action!
Not at all backwards in being forward about this, easily finding a guy for some funky no strings attached rolls in the hay. QUEEN of the banter, they sizzle. Come Monday, BOOM! this works out not at all in the way she expected.
With a cast of well drawn characters we follow Makayla's finding a new shiny version of herself, and what she really wants in this messy grown up life.
I enjoyed the lightness of this (I tend to read heaps of heavy stuff) and conversely the heavier themes which Makayla is hiding from. The romance aspect is gratifying, no-one is playing games or being forcibly portrayed by any artificial kind of trope (because I don't like this stuff). I also love how the author has woven in her love of classic cars, it's good to see authors writing what they know; it's authentic and it shows.
Possibly a neat ending, but as I'm not an expert at this genre I probably not the best to judge. I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library. I highly recommend.
I could sense Holly's era from the music and pop culture references, which I'm not sure entirely matched with the protagonists age, but it was still fun to pick up on the vibe, and the things I sensed she liked in real life, transferred on to Makayla.
Makayla is a feisty protagonist and about to turn 30, and quick to know what she wants (or not). Not so quick in owning up to her fears - she's definitely hiding from something, building BIG walls around those she likes. She's never even held her best friend's child - what's up with this?
Let down by a mediocre and disappointing husband, making the regretful move of marrying her high school sweetheart - the only guy she'd been with. Now is the time to make up for this, she wants some action!
Not at all backwards in being forward about this, easily finding a guy for some funky no strings attached rolls in the hay. QUEEN of the banter, they sizzle. Come Monday, BOOM! this works out not at all in the way she expected.
With a cast of well drawn characters we follow Makayla's finding a new shiny version of herself, and what she really wants in this messy grown up life.
I enjoyed the lightness of this (I tend to read heaps of heavy stuff) and conversely the heavier themes which Makayla is hiding from. The romance aspect is gratifying, no-one is playing games or being forcibly portrayed by any artificial kind of trope (because I don't like this stuff). I also love how the author has woven in her love of classic cars, it's good to see authors writing what they know; it's authentic and it shows.
Possibly a neat ending, but as I'm not an expert at this genre I probably not the best to judge. I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library. I highly recommend.
July 9, 2025
Big thanks to Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
Debut author and social media wiz Holly Brunnbauer has caused a sensation.
What Did I Miss? is one of those books that’s on everyone’s lips, appearing in people’s TBR piles and in fans hands.
A funny, delightful and entertaining rom com that will give you all the feels.
Introducing Makayla.
An ‘about to turn 30’, newly divorced teacher who makes a list of all the tasks to be done because she missed them in the twenties.
But things don’t always go to plan……
And Makayla must make some important decisions before it too late.
A sassy, fierce and sizzling read.
Holly has penned an amusing, engaging and entertaining tale full of great chitchat and the everyday life and battles of Makayla’s journey.
A list of great characters, some that may annoy you, a romantic, seductive plot and some cool one liners.
A story that will leave you with a smile and feeling satisfied 😉
Debut author and social media wiz Holly Brunnbauer has caused a sensation.
What Did I Miss? is one of those books that’s on everyone’s lips, appearing in people’s TBR piles and in fans hands.
A funny, delightful and entertaining rom com that will give you all the feels.
Introducing Makayla.
An ‘about to turn 30’, newly divorced teacher who makes a list of all the tasks to be done because she missed them in the twenties.
But things don’t always go to plan……
And Makayla must make some important decisions before it too late.
A sassy, fierce and sizzling read.
Holly has penned an amusing, engaging and entertaining tale full of great chitchat and the everyday life and battles of Makayla’s journey.
A list of great characters, some that may annoy you, a romantic, seductive plot and some cool one liners.
A story that will leave you with a smile and feeling satisfied 😉
Read
August 3, 2025A fun read pairing a feisty newly divorced 30 year old with an unexpected love interest she doesn't want or need. (Emotional themes underpin this couple.)
Enjoyable.
Enjoyable.
October 11, 2025
Audio 3.5 rounded up.
A fun light read.
#noregrets
#yolo
A fun light read.
#noregrets
#yolo
December 25, 2025
What I would give for a hot and sexy teacher
October 1, 2025
I bloody loved this! Amazing debut from Holly. Beau is definitely the perfect book boyfriend. It's so refreshing and wonderful to read Aussie books, and this one is from a lovely lady I know. Can't wait to get my hands on her next book 😍
September 7, 2025
4.5 🌟
I’m so surprised this is Holly Brunnbauer’s debut novel! Thoroughly enjoyed it!
I’m so surprised this is Holly Brunnbauer’s debut novel! Thoroughly enjoyed it!
August 29, 2025
There’s little I love more than a rom-com, and there was a lot to adore with this one…
But before I get into all my thoughts and feelings, I want to thank Holly Brunnbauer and Harper Collins Australia for kindly sending me a copy!
‘What Did I Miss?’ is a delightful debut about a divorcee determined to make up for lost time, living out the rest of her twenties as she would have - had she not spent most of those years in a long-term relationship.
While you can probably guess what’s on Makayla’s ‘no regrets’ list, what happens after she ticks off “have a one-night stand” will have your jaw on the floor.
This book is laugh-out-loud funny, lighthearted, and utterly loveable. Set in Australia with a completely crush-worthy MMC and some of my favourite side characters ever, it’s an easy and enjoyable read - the kind of rom-com that reminds me exactly why I love the genre so much!
But before I get into all my thoughts and feelings, I want to thank Holly Brunnbauer and Harper Collins Australia for kindly sending me a copy!
‘What Did I Miss?’ is a delightful debut about a divorcee determined to make up for lost time, living out the rest of her twenties as she would have - had she not spent most of those years in a long-term relationship.
While you can probably guess what’s on Makayla’s ‘no regrets’ list, what happens after she ticks off “have a one-night stand” will have your jaw on the floor.
This book is laugh-out-loud funny, lighthearted, and utterly loveable. Set in Australia with a completely crush-worthy MMC and some of my favourite side characters ever, it’s an easy and enjoyable read - the kind of rom-com that reminds me exactly why I love the genre so much!
July 20, 2025
I went into this book really hoping to connect with the story, but unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me and by the end, I was left wondering why I didn’t just DNF it when I had the chance. But of course, I powered through… because apparently I like to torture myself.
One of my biggest struggles was with the FMC. Her decisions and the way she treated the people around her felt incredibly selfish, especially in her relationships. I found it hard to relate to her or even root for her at times. Yes, she did eventually acknowledge her flaws and start to work on them — and I can absolutely respect that — but for most of the book, I felt disconnected from her growth and emotional journey.
The writing style itself didn’t help either. There were moments that felt off or strangely handled, and I just couldn’t fully immerse myself in the story. It often felt like the tone didn’t match the emotional weight of what was happening.
And I have to be honest, I was completely caught off guard by the inclusion of a miscarriage as a central emotional plotline, especially since there were no trigger warnings at all. That’s a deeply sensitive and personal topic, and the way it was introduced with no heads-up felt careless and jarring. I understand the importance of portraying difficult experiences in fiction, but it deserves to be done with care — and with a warning, so readers can choose how and when they engage with it.
Overall, I really wish I could say I liked this more. I could see what the story wanted to be, and I think some readers may still connect with it but for me, it just missed the mark on too many levels.
One of my biggest struggles was with the FMC. Her decisions and the way she treated the people around her felt incredibly selfish, especially in her relationships. I found it hard to relate to her or even root for her at times. Yes, she did eventually acknowledge her flaws and start to work on them — and I can absolutely respect that — but for most of the book, I felt disconnected from her growth and emotional journey.
The writing style itself didn’t help either. There were moments that felt off or strangely handled, and I just couldn’t fully immerse myself in the story. It often felt like the tone didn’t match the emotional weight of what was happening.
And I have to be honest, I was completely caught off guard by the inclusion of a miscarriage as a central emotional plotline, especially since there were no trigger warnings at all. That’s a deeply sensitive and personal topic, and the way it was introduced with no heads-up felt careless and jarring. I understand the importance of portraying difficult experiences in fiction, but it deserves to be done with care — and with a warning, so readers can choose how and when they engage with it.
Overall, I really wish I could say I liked this more. I could see what the story wanted to be, and I think some readers may still connect with it but for me, it just missed the mark on too many levels.
July 16, 2025
Makayla is recently divorced and about to turn 30. Having married her high school sweetheart she now feels she has missed out on a big chunk of her adult life and plans to make up for it
This includes making a bucket list she hopes to complete before the big 3-0
Her Aunt Quinn tasks Makayla with really enjoying her own company and not falling back into a relationship, offering her a family heirloom as a birthday gift if she stays single until her birthday
No sooner does she begin to work her way through the list does a one night stand offer up more feelings than she has experienced ever! But no time for that.. she will not be tied down again.
But is the universe punishing her or telling her something.. when she comes face to face with the one night stand at work!?
While Makayla isn’t your usual FMC you are wholeheartedly invested in her living her life to the fullest and by the end of the book want to wrap her in the biggest hug and not let her go!
Beau.. now let’s talk about the wonderful Beau. He is absolutely my new book boyfriend 🙌 he is a gem and I loved the banter between him and Makayla
This beautiful debut has such wonderful humour and heart. It touches on some tougher topics with much care
Very looking forward to reading what is next for Holly ♥️
July 17, 2025
This was everything I needed right now, my goodness, I think it’s the best rom com of 2025.
Makayla was married young, finally divorced and turning thirty. She feels like she missed out on a lot in those younger years and she has this new found feeling of independence.
Her reappearing one night stand really ramped things up and I was here for it! Beau is just a dream!!! It was a lot of fun, so many laughs! Just the best!
In all the fun, flirty and sexy moments there are some really important themes discussed and big choices to be made.
I take my hat off to Holly for how she’s written about the deeper themes. It broke my heart but it was written perfectly.
I loved the cheeky humour but I also loved the realness of this story. Facing your fears, talking about things rather than bottling it up, regrets, falling in love, honesty and beautiful friendships, it’s honestly just amazing.
I absolutely adored it and will be recommending this beauty to everyone!
Thank you so much Holly and @harpercollinsaustralia for sending me this copy to read and review.
Makayla was married young, finally divorced and turning thirty. She feels like she missed out on a lot in those younger years and she has this new found feeling of independence.
Her reappearing one night stand really ramped things up and I was here for it! Beau is just a dream!!! It was a lot of fun, so many laughs! Just the best!
In all the fun, flirty and sexy moments there are some really important themes discussed and big choices to be made.
I take my hat off to Holly for how she’s written about the deeper themes. It broke my heart but it was written perfectly.
I loved the cheeky humour but I also loved the realness of this story. Facing your fears, talking about things rather than bottling it up, regrets, falling in love, honesty and beautiful friendships, it’s honestly just amazing.
I absolutely adored it and will be recommending this beauty to everyone!
Thank you so much Holly and @harpercollinsaustralia for sending me this copy to read and review.
July 9, 2025
"She's the poster child for resting bitch face" 😂
This book had so many laugh out loud moments for me!! It was witty, funny, heartwarming, sexy & relatable.
I was hooked from page 1 when Makaylas story starts with a bang! (pun intended 😉) & I loved how we were introduced to Beau. What a FUN premise which set the book up so well.
The secondary characters were such awesome additions, shoutout to Agnes, I feel like we all know an Agnes 🙈 & don't even get me started on Waz! ✋🏼
The book also tackles some deeper themes & I love how Holly navigated them. Sometimes the hardest person to be truthful with is yourself! I loved seeing Makaylas character growth throughout the story.
A new book boyfriend has been added to the list, Beau...the man that you are. The romance, the chemistry, the tension, the emotions. So good!!
This book has me wanting to write a bucket list & join a car club. What a gorgeously funny rom-com. This is going on my list equally to the likes of Funny Story & First Time Caller!
4.5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
This book had so many laugh out loud moments for me!! It was witty, funny, heartwarming, sexy & relatable.
I was hooked from page 1 when Makaylas story starts with a bang! (pun intended 😉) & I loved how we were introduced to Beau. What a FUN premise which set the book up so well.
The secondary characters were such awesome additions, shoutout to Agnes, I feel like we all know an Agnes 🙈 & don't even get me started on Waz! ✋🏼
The book also tackles some deeper themes & I love how Holly navigated them. Sometimes the hardest person to be truthful with is yourself! I loved seeing Makaylas character growth throughout the story.
A new book boyfriend has been added to the list, Beau...the man that you are. The romance, the chemistry, the tension, the emotions. So good!!
This book has me wanting to write a bucket list & join a car club. What a gorgeously funny rom-com. This is going on my list equally to the likes of Funny Story & First Time Caller!
4.5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
April 7, 2025
What a delight of a debut! Heartwarming and snort-laugh inducing funny, this perfectly pitched rom-com will have you grinning from ear-to-ear. The characters are fabulously feisty, the romance full of fluttery feels and the dialogue whip-smart. Makalyla and Beau will capture your heart and won't let go.
October 11, 2025
Lookkkk I enjoyed this and while the protagonist was messy and real, god I found her unsufferable, and her amount of growth was so dismal across the novel…the fact she only had growth in the last 5% did not make for a great character arc for me.
July 17, 2025
every conflict got resolved after maximum 3 pages
May 1, 2025
Okay I love Beau! Makayla was quite annoying, but I wasn’t able to put this down because I really loved the romance between them both.
June 11, 2025
A big thank you Netgalley, Harper Collins and Holly Brunnbauer for allowing me a chance to read an advanced copy!
Firstly, do not read this immediately after finishing Love Overdue- you will confuse yourself between schools and supporting characters 😂- maybe thats just my mum brain haha
Makayla is our FMC. This is a woman who has been with the same man since she was 16, she never got to ‘find herself’ in her 20’s, she never got to sow her oats… after a quick divorce and approaching her 30th birthday, she is setting herself a list.
I think initially I didn’t like Makayla as a character, i thought she was selfish and a bit of a dick- especially towards Beau. But reading on and understanding her back story, its clearly a defence mechanism and she needs to grow into the new her.
The character of Beau. Oh my god. He is perfection. I adored him, truely so patient and caring- The perfect book boyfriend!
I enjoyed reading the development and maturity of our main character. But also found the supporting characters integral to the story.
Also justice for Agnes… shes a bad ass 💁♀️
A wonderful debut, if you love a romcom you will enjoy this read. Another win for aussie fiction!
Firstly, do not read this immediately after finishing Love Overdue- you will confuse yourself between schools and supporting characters 😂- maybe thats just my mum brain haha
Makayla is our FMC. This is a woman who has been with the same man since she was 16, she never got to ‘find herself’ in her 20’s, she never got to sow her oats… after a quick divorce and approaching her 30th birthday, she is setting herself a list.
I think initially I didn’t like Makayla as a character, i thought she was selfish and a bit of a dick- especially towards Beau. But reading on and understanding her back story, its clearly a defence mechanism and she needs to grow into the new her.
The character of Beau. Oh my god. He is perfection. I adored him, truely so patient and caring- The perfect book boyfriend!
I enjoyed reading the development and maturity of our main character. But also found the supporting characters integral to the story.
Also justice for Agnes… shes a bad ass 💁♀️
A wonderful debut, if you love a romcom you will enjoy this read. Another win for aussie fiction!
July 29, 2025
What a rom com!!!! I’m sure I’m not the only one with a new favourite bookish boyfriend. I LOVED Beau!!!!! This was such a fun one! Also loved seeing the teachers at work; I knew that’s what a staff room would be like! And the mug situation!!! I knew it!!!! I also had no idea there was so much to love about vintage cars!!! But really this is a perfect rom com, one I was completely there for!!
November 15, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
*check trigger warnings as there are heavy discussions of miscarriage throughout this book*
So many great ingredients to this story however at times it was a little lackluster. We are following Makaylas road to re-discovering herself after her recent divorce from her high school sweetheart. As a way to re-invent herself and experience all the things she missed out on in her 20s she creates a "no regrets list". Im a girl who loves a list however, in this story it felt like there were so many moments when we are following along with Makayla ticking these things off her list that came across as being "staged" for each chapter rather than a natural progression or fun aspect of the story.
If you're looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy, slice of life type of scenario you should pick this up for a bit of fun (Please do be mindful that the discussions of miscarriage are also quite a central aspect of the story also). The characters do feel somewhat forgettable and I certainly did not vibe with the dynamic of the romance throughout most of the story, yet the plot did share some uniqueness that made for a refreshing enjoyable read.
Kinda obsessed with the manner in which we met Beau "our one-night-stand love interest". You can tell this is written by an Aussie author when the opening line to their meet cute is "parma or parmi". Beau is down right bad for Makayla from the get go. The way in which he CONTINUALLY gets shafted by her when we begin to see some relationship development made me wanna throw something. If someone played with my feelings as much as Makayla did to Beau I would have ran for the MF hills. This man was the defintion of a doormat and our FMC had minimal character growth, is immature and beyond selfish at times which was extremely frustrating.
Overall, a great debut for an Aussie author and I will be picking up more of her books in the future.
*check trigger warnings as there are heavy discussions of miscarriage throughout this book*
So many great ingredients to this story however at times it was a little lackluster. We are following Makaylas road to re-discovering herself after her recent divorce from her high school sweetheart. As a way to re-invent herself and experience all the things she missed out on in her 20s she creates a "no regrets list". Im a girl who loves a list however, in this story it felt like there were so many moments when we are following along with Makayla ticking these things off her list that came across as being "staged" for each chapter rather than a natural progression or fun aspect of the story.
If you're looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy, slice of life type of scenario you should pick this up for a bit of fun (Please do be mindful that the discussions of miscarriage are also quite a central aspect of the story also). The characters do feel somewhat forgettable and I certainly did not vibe with the dynamic of the romance throughout most of the story, yet the plot did share some uniqueness that made for a refreshing enjoyable read.
Kinda obsessed with the manner in which we met Beau "our one-night-stand love interest". You can tell this is written by an Aussie author when the opening line to their meet cute is "parma or parmi". Beau is down right bad for Makayla from the get go. The way in which he CONTINUALLY gets shafted by her when we begin to see some relationship development made me wanna throw something. If someone played with my feelings as much as Makayla did to Beau I would have ran for the MF hills. This man was the defintion of a doormat and our FMC had minimal character growth, is immature and beyond selfish at times which was extremely frustrating.
Overall, a great debut for an Aussie author and I will be picking up more of her books in the future.
August 31, 2025
A fabulous debut novel that demands your attention and keeps you entertained to the very end.
Makayla is making up for lost time and she has a plan, but not everything quite goes to plan, well ok, most of it doesn’t go to plan and she can thank Beau Shepherd for that.
This is a romcom that really does live up to it’s promise but not content with that, it goes above and beyond and gives you more than you bargained for. It has its fun and flirty moments, quite a few actually, and some of the events that take place are hilarious but woven throughout the story are some much deeper themes that are handled brilliantly, creating a full experience that is definitely worth your attention.
I really loved the characters and how Holly not only gave them some fantastic personalities and traits, but gives them the opportunity to be quite direct, not beating around the bush when engaging in conversations among their group.
Makayla is looking to let loose and experience all the things she missed out on.
Then there is Beau the handsome, well chiselled and rather cute complication.
Cece the best friend, enabler and new mum.
Warren the archenemy ex-husband.
Trish the determined ex-mother-in-law.
Agnes the work nemesis and antagonist.
Ebony the student with a chip on her shoulder and an attitude to match.
……and so many more that will want to make you hang around and see what happens.
I could go on forever about how great this book is and all the reasons that everyone should read it, but I don’t want to give anything away. So, you’ll have to grab a copy for yourself, pay a visit to Goldbrooke Secondary College staff room, grab a cuppa and sit back and enjoy the show….just make sure you don’t use Agnes’ cup.
#whatdidimiss
#hollybrunnbauer
#makingupforlosttime
#harpercollinsbooksaustralia
Makayla is making up for lost time and she has a plan, but not everything quite goes to plan, well ok, most of it doesn’t go to plan and she can thank Beau Shepherd for that.
This is a romcom that really does live up to it’s promise but not content with that, it goes above and beyond and gives you more than you bargained for. It has its fun and flirty moments, quite a few actually, and some of the events that take place are hilarious but woven throughout the story are some much deeper themes that are handled brilliantly, creating a full experience that is definitely worth your attention.
I really loved the characters and how Holly not only gave them some fantastic personalities and traits, but gives them the opportunity to be quite direct, not beating around the bush when engaging in conversations among their group.
Makayla is looking to let loose and experience all the things she missed out on.
Then there is Beau the handsome, well chiselled and rather cute complication.
Cece the best friend, enabler and new mum.
Warren the archenemy ex-husband.
Trish the determined ex-mother-in-law.
Agnes the work nemesis and antagonist.
Ebony the student with a chip on her shoulder and an attitude to match.
……and so many more that will want to make you hang around and see what happens.
I could go on forever about how great this book is and all the reasons that everyone should read it, but I don’t want to give anything away. So, you’ll have to grab a copy for yourself, pay a visit to Goldbrooke Secondary College staff room, grab a cuppa and sit back and enjoy the show….just make sure you don’t use Agnes’ cup.
#whatdidimiss
#hollybrunnbauer
#makingupforlosttime
#harpercollinsbooksaustralia
July 20, 2025
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibes: Fresh Start, Feel Good, Humour and Heart
- - -
When I’m reading a book I always try to write notes to remind myself of key memorable moments ready for writing my review. For this book, all I wrote was ‘Makayla girl, grab that man!!’ 😂
Now this won’t make much sense until you’ve met Makayla and Beau and the cast of absolutely wonderful characters that make up this book but my one line note is also a solid sign that I could NOT put this book down!
Makayla and Beau are absolute magic together. The chemistry and the banter is chefs kiss. But it’s not just about the romance, it’s about rediscovery, finding joy after setbacks and giving yourself permission to want more.
This book had such a big heart too. Makayla’s journey was full of messy moments, personal growth and genuine authenticity that made it impossible not to be invested in her whole life.
I devoured this one. It’s fun, it’s flirty, it’s hilarious and I don’t even usually gravitate toward romance! But every once in a while a romcom like this hits my hands and I immediately question all my life choices.
Holly Brunnbauer doesn’t just sprinkle in the humour, she fully loads it. I was laughing out loud constantly with the girlie humour, sharp one liners and relatable moments. It felt like catching up with your funniest friend after a chaotic week.
If you’re usually a thrillers and crime person (hello, it’s me 🙋🏼♀️), or you lean into the moody dark covers over the pops of pinks like I do, trust me when I say this one will still win you over. And if you already love authors like Emily Henry, just go ahead and buy or borrow this one immediately.
A big thank you to Holly Brunnbauer and Harper Collins for popping this one on my radar 🩷
Vibes: Fresh Start, Feel Good, Humour and Heart
- - -
When I’m reading a book I always try to write notes to remind myself of key memorable moments ready for writing my review. For this book, all I wrote was ‘Makayla girl, grab that man!!’ 😂
Now this won’t make much sense until you’ve met Makayla and Beau and the cast of absolutely wonderful characters that make up this book but my one line note is also a solid sign that I could NOT put this book down!
Makayla and Beau are absolute magic together. The chemistry and the banter is chefs kiss. But it’s not just about the romance, it’s about rediscovery, finding joy after setbacks and giving yourself permission to want more.
This book had such a big heart too. Makayla’s journey was full of messy moments, personal growth and genuine authenticity that made it impossible not to be invested in her whole life.
I devoured this one. It’s fun, it’s flirty, it’s hilarious and I don’t even usually gravitate toward romance! But every once in a while a romcom like this hits my hands and I immediately question all my life choices.
Holly Brunnbauer doesn’t just sprinkle in the humour, she fully loads it. I was laughing out loud constantly with the girlie humour, sharp one liners and relatable moments. It felt like catching up with your funniest friend after a chaotic week.
If you’re usually a thrillers and crime person (hello, it’s me 🙋🏼♀️), or you lean into the moody dark covers over the pops of pinks like I do, trust me when I say this one will still win you over. And if you already love authors like Emily Henry, just go ahead and buy or borrow this one immediately.
A big thank you to Holly Brunnbauer and Harper Collins for popping this one on my radar 🩷
October 30, 2025
A sensational debut! You can tell that Holly is an author who works and works at her craft. The woman clearly knows and understands great storytelling. Holly also obviously appreciates the art of the rom com & with this debut, she’s nailed it!
Don’t enjoy wishy-washy, always in need of rescuing female romance protagonists? No worries at all with this book! Makayla may be messy, but she’s also sassy, feisty and gutsy & I’m a little afraid of her because she’s way too cool for me.
The one night stand gone awry trope had me cringing - but only because I was already cheering for Makayla and her newly divorced, turning 30, making up for lost time list. I actually love this trope. Give me the awkwardness, the tension & the steamy flashbacks!
The com is firmly in this rom com. If you’re already following Holly’s social media, you’ll know how funny she is, and her humour shines throughout this book.
But it’s not all laughs, the way heavier subjects and darker secrets were revealed in the narrative was masterful. The little breadcrumbs Holly dropped along the way led to something significant and though the pieces were all there, each part of the book flowed so seamlessly that the reveal came as a genuine surprise.
Must read Australian fiction! Get yourself a copy and enjoy!
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher.
Don’t enjoy wishy-washy, always in need of rescuing female romance protagonists? No worries at all with this book! Makayla may be messy, but she’s also sassy, feisty and gutsy & I’m a little afraid of her because she’s way too cool for me.
The one night stand gone awry trope had me cringing - but only because I was already cheering for Makayla and her newly divorced, turning 30, making up for lost time list. I actually love this trope. Give me the awkwardness, the tension & the steamy flashbacks!
The com is firmly in this rom com. If you’re already following Holly’s social media, you’ll know how funny she is, and her humour shines throughout this book.
But it’s not all laughs, the way heavier subjects and darker secrets were revealed in the narrative was masterful. The little breadcrumbs Holly dropped along the way led to something significant and though the pieces were all there, each part of the book flowed so seamlessly that the reveal came as a genuine surprise.
Must read Australian fiction! Get yourself a copy and enjoy!
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher.
July 21, 2025
This was a funny and sweet read in parts, but overall, it didn’t land for me the way I’d hoped. The story had potential, but I struggled with the FMC’s character—she came across as messy and selfish, often treating the people around her, especially Beau, poorly.
Beau felt like the more mature, grounded one in the relationship, and I couldn’t understand why he kept getting strung along. The FMC’s hot-and-cold behavior—pushing him away for reasons that didn’t feel emotionally convincing (like her ex and a car??)—just made the romance frustrating instead of swoony. The constant back-and-forth got confusing and, honestly, exhausting to read.
That said, the supporting cast really shined. They brought most of the humor and heart to the story and were the main reason I stuck with it. I just wish the main relationship had the same charm and emotional payoff.
Beau felt like the more mature, grounded one in the relationship, and I couldn’t understand why he kept getting strung along. The FMC’s hot-and-cold behavior—pushing him away for reasons that didn’t feel emotionally convincing (like her ex and a car??)—just made the romance frustrating instead of swoony. The constant back-and-forth got confusing and, honestly, exhausting to read.
That said, the supporting cast really shined. They brought most of the humor and heart to the story and were the main reason I stuck with it. I just wish the main relationship had the same charm and emotional payoff.
August 25, 2025
I had the pleasure of meeting Holly at a Dymocks event, and as soon as she finished her elevator pitch, I knew this book was for me.
I love a good rom com, especially when it’s centred around a woman claiming herself back!
The only reason it wasn’t a 5 ⭐️, is because I love the spice, and this wasn’t too spicy!
I love a good rom com, especially when it’s centred around a woman claiming herself back!
The only reason it wasn’t a 5 ⭐️, is because I love the spice, and this wasn’t too spicy!
October 19, 2025
This was a romcom that was good for the soul. I came across it on a random reel on social media - romcoms for your birth month, and this was mine. I’m so glad I bought it. The spice level was low but the tension and chemistry between Makayla and Beau was great. Relatable, fun with real moments of emotion and connection.
July 24, 2025
Holly Brunnbauer’s What Did I Miss? is a debut novel that’s both hilarious yet emotionally weighty. A rom-com that’s not just romantic, but genuinely comedic. ✨
From the first few pages, I was sold on Makayla’s voice. She’s 29, freshly divorced from the only boyfriend she’s ever had, and hurtling into rediscovery mode by listing everything she “missed” while in a long-term relationship. The story is told with such crisp, self-deprecating wit that I laughed out loud (like, actual cackles) multiple times. Makayla is sassy, a little chaotic, sometimes hard (but soft underneath), funny on purpose, and occasionally on accident, and I enjoyed being in her head. ☺️
Then, there’s Beau, our MMC. Refreshingly, a good guy. Not a tortured soul or an aloof billionaire or any of the usual cardboard cutouts we’re taught to swoon over. He’s warm, reliable, a little bit of a simp (in the best way), but also sets boundaries. He’s clear about what he wants and doesn’t let Makayla bulldoze him emotionally (even when she tries). 💕
The writing is fast-paced, clever, and full of texture. I can’t believe this is a debut; it reads with the confidence of someone who’s been doing this for years. By the end, I could see the final scene like a rom-com on the big screen. Funny, heartfelt, satisfying. The kind of story you want to watch with popcorn and a glass of wine. 🍷
I feel lucky to have read an e-ARC via NetGalley (thank you HarperCollins Australia!) but I loved it so much, I bought the physical copy too! This book is smart, funny, and full of heart. For rom-com lovers out there, this is one you surely shouldn’t miss. 😘
Awesome job, Holly! Congratulations! 🙌🏼
From the first few pages, I was sold on Makayla’s voice. She’s 29, freshly divorced from the only boyfriend she’s ever had, and hurtling into rediscovery mode by listing everything she “missed” while in a long-term relationship. The story is told with such crisp, self-deprecating wit that I laughed out loud (like, actual cackles) multiple times. Makayla is sassy, a little chaotic, sometimes hard (but soft underneath), funny on purpose, and occasionally on accident, and I enjoyed being in her head. ☺️
Then, there’s Beau, our MMC. Refreshingly, a good guy. Not a tortured soul or an aloof billionaire or any of the usual cardboard cutouts we’re taught to swoon over. He’s warm, reliable, a little bit of a simp (in the best way), but also sets boundaries. He’s clear about what he wants and doesn’t let Makayla bulldoze him emotionally (even when she tries). 💕
The writing is fast-paced, clever, and full of texture. I can’t believe this is a debut; it reads with the confidence of someone who’s been doing this for years. By the end, I could see the final scene like a rom-com on the big screen. Funny, heartfelt, satisfying. The kind of story you want to watch with popcorn and a glass of wine. 🍷
I feel lucky to have read an e-ARC via NetGalley (thank you HarperCollins Australia!) but I loved it so much, I bought the physical copy too! This book is smart, funny, and full of heart. For rom-com lovers out there, this is one you surely shouldn’t miss. 😘
Awesome job, Holly! Congratulations! 🙌🏼
September 14, 2025
The voice is fresh and confident, the premise is unique, the characters are deliciously flawed and frustrating, and the romance is juicy. As a former (retired? traumatised?) high school teacher, I also really loved the setting. A wonderful debut that reads like the writing of a seasoned author💕
September 25, 2025
It's alright. It's well written, however, 99% of the story wouldn't happen if the main character was just honest with people, which is an extremely frustrating trope. But it covered some important topics. I wouldn't read it again, and probably wouldn't recommend it.
October 27, 2025
What did I miss?
Its an enjoyable rom-com with heart,
humour and a bit of self-discovery
Makayla is chaotic, real, and
sometimes frustrating, but that's the
point: she's trying to reclaim herself
The romance partner is swoony and
down-to-earth, which adds charm
The set-up is fun, the Aussie flavour
gives it colour, and the shift into
more serious territory gives the story
weight.
Its an enjoyable rom-com with heart,
humour and a bit of self-discovery
Makayla is chaotic, real, and
sometimes frustrating, but that's the
point: she's trying to reclaim herself
The romance partner is swoony and
down-to-earth, which adds charm
The set-up is fun, the Aussie flavour
gives it colour, and the shift into
more serious territory gives the story
weight.
August 4, 2025
Hilarious, full of heart and heading straight to the top of my ‘will read this again and again and again’ list!
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