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16 days and 13:48:45
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Don't Tell Me How It Ends
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Expected 14 Apr 26Win a free print copy of this book!
16 days and 13:48:45
10 copies available
U.S. only
A floundering twenty-something, who’s sworn off romance finds herself roped into her meddling sister’s matchmaking business—in this sparkling debut rom-com that asks: can we protect ourselves while falling in love?
Kaia Harper may not have a plan for her life, but she knows what she won't be doing—falling for somebody's dusty son, promising forever. She'd rather spend the summer after college having disappointing one-night stands and watching crime show reruns. At least she won’t be caught off guard since she already knows how all those stories end.
But when her very pregnant and newly single sister calls for help, Kaia reroutes, stumbling back home to suburban Connecticut…and into the business plan of her sister's new matchmaking company. Kaia’s views on love remain as bleak as her career prospects, but if becoming the inaugural client can distract her from existential questions like "What am I even doing with my life?", Kaia will suffer through a few bad dates and call it a favor.
When Ro Jackson finds Kaia stalled on the side of the road, he isn’t put off by her attitude. His steady disposition is Kaia’s opposite and makes him exactly what she needs—a friend in town who can handle her just as she is. But as Ro talks Kaia through a summer of failed matches, she finds herself drawn to more than just his poetic outlook and friendship.
Kaia hadn’t seen this one coming, but as she and Ro grow closer, she’ll have to decide what’s more important: needing to know the end of every story, or jumping into the unknown.
Kaia Harper may not have a plan for her life, but she knows what she won't be doing—falling for somebody's dusty son, promising forever. She'd rather spend the summer after college having disappointing one-night stands and watching crime show reruns. At least she won’t be caught off guard since she already knows how all those stories end.
But when her very pregnant and newly single sister calls for help, Kaia reroutes, stumbling back home to suburban Connecticut…and into the business plan of her sister's new matchmaking company. Kaia’s views on love remain as bleak as her career prospects, but if becoming the inaugural client can distract her from existential questions like "What am I even doing with my life?", Kaia will suffer through a few bad dates and call it a favor.
When Ro Jackson finds Kaia stalled on the side of the road, he isn’t put off by her attitude. His steady disposition is Kaia’s opposite and makes him exactly what she needs—a friend in town who can handle her just as she is. But as Ro talks Kaia through a summer of failed matches, she finds herself drawn to more than just his poetic outlook and friendship.
Kaia hadn’t seen this one coming, but as she and Ro grow closer, she’ll have to decide what’s more important: needing to know the end of every story, or jumping into the unknown.
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 14, 2026
27 people are currently reading
12355 people want to read
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October 16, 2025Hey all! I'm SO glad you're here, and even more excited for you to meet these characters I've been keeping to myself for too long. I've tried to create a world here that feels FRESH, LAYERED, RELATABLE, and REAL, and I really hope you enjoy the time you spend in it. As a lifelong romcom fan, I hope my debut novel gives you that true romcom experience we all know and love.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!
Follow me here or on ig so you can keep tabs on what's coming next.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!
Follow me here or on ig so you can keep tabs on what's coming next.
2026
December 19, 2025Black History Month TBR
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Dial Press Trade Paperback
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Dial Press Trade Paperback
October 22, 2025
This was such a precious romance. Our FMC, Kaia, is a fierce and independent woman, and our MMC, Ro, is the ultimate golden retriever man—supportive, charming, and loved by everyone he meets. Their story unfolds as a slow friends-to-lovers burn, and honestly, there were moments I just wanted to shove their lips together to move things along, but in the end, the journey was exactly what they both needed.
I really loved how Kaia’s arc showed her learning that even when you don’t need help, it can still be beautiful to accept it when it’s freely and lovingly offered.
What made this book so special, though, was how it celebrated more than just romantic love. It shined just as brightly on the love between best friends, the love between a mother and her daughters, and that incomparable bond between sisters. It was a gentle reminder to cherish all the different forms of love in your life.
I really loved how Kaia’s arc showed her learning that even when you don’t need help, it can still be beautiful to accept it when it’s freely and lovingly offered.
What made this book so special, though, was how it celebrated more than just romantic love. It shined just as brightly on the love between best friends, the love between a mother and her daughters, and that incomparable bond between sisters. It was a gentle reminder to cherish all the different forms of love in your life.
November 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
(Rounded up for goodreads!)
A fresh, witty and emotional romance that feels perfectly rooted in modern day womanhood.
I had such a good time reading this tension filled, swoony romance that leans into the realm of a women’s fiction novel with Kaia, her sister and her mother at the heart of the story.
If you’re looking for a romance that takes a step outside of the typical box, this is it. Don’t Tell Me How This Ends takes a handful of imperfect characters and allows them to remain so deeply, yet believably and relateably imperfect, even as they learn and grow throughout the book.
The characters were amazing:
- I really resonated with main character Kaia. While reading her experiences, her outlooks and her struggles I kept thinking: I know so many people who would read this understand Kaia on a personal level like I do.
- Then enter: Ro. Someone who may or may not be a little bit more than meets the eye kind of guy. I loved Ro, but what I loved most what that he didn’t steal Kaia’s shine. So often I read a romance and get a little “meh” about the perfect, here to save the day MMC that takes up every single thought the FMC has. This was not that and what a breath of fresh air it was. Ro has his own story, his own life, and even.. his own conflicts with Kaia.
I loved the set up of the plot
- A matchmaking sister? As an older sister, this sounds like a dream job! A little bit of sibling torture, a little bit of “I know best” - perfect!
The romance was so good!
- I loved the tension between these two, the banter was even better. I loved when they hit their climax and it was the something like the opposite of a swoony moment. They felt real, this felt realistic.
With an overall focus on family, friendship, self-discovery and growth, healing wounds, and falling in love - this was such a meaningful read. Of course you add the cherries on top (the banter, the tension, the arguments, the sarcasm, the fails, the lessons and more)
My only two notes: are
1. The end went so fast. I’d pay money for an epilogue though I do appreciate that the ending fit the character.
2. I think some of the conversations between some characters could be a little long winded and repetitive at times.
Overall, one of my favorite romances this year! Highly recommend.
(Rounded up for goodreads!)
A fresh, witty and emotional romance that feels perfectly rooted in modern day womanhood.
I had such a good time reading this tension filled, swoony romance that leans into the realm of a women’s fiction novel with Kaia, her sister and her mother at the heart of the story.
If you’re looking for a romance that takes a step outside of the typical box, this is it. Don’t Tell Me How This Ends takes a handful of imperfect characters and allows them to remain so deeply, yet believably and relateably imperfect, even as they learn and grow throughout the book.
The characters were amazing:
- I really resonated with main character Kaia. While reading her experiences, her outlooks and her struggles I kept thinking: I know so many people who would read this understand Kaia on a personal level like I do.
- Then enter: Ro. Someone who may or may not be a little bit more than meets the eye kind of guy. I loved Ro, but what I loved most what that he didn’t steal Kaia’s shine. So often I read a romance and get a little “meh” about the perfect, here to save the day MMC that takes up every single thought the FMC has. This was not that and what a breath of fresh air it was. Ro has his own story, his own life, and even.. his own conflicts with Kaia.
I loved the set up of the plot
- A matchmaking sister? As an older sister, this sounds like a dream job! A little bit of sibling torture, a little bit of “I know best” - perfect!
The romance was so good!
- I loved the tension between these two, the banter was even better. I loved when they hit their climax and it was the something like the opposite of a swoony moment. They felt real, this felt realistic.
With an overall focus on family, friendship, self-discovery and growth, healing wounds, and falling in love - this was such a meaningful read. Of course you add the cherries on top (the banter, the tension, the arguments, the sarcasm, the fails, the lessons and more)
My only two notes: are
1. The end went so fast. I’d pay money for an epilogue though I do appreciate that the ending fit the character.
2. I think some of the conversations between some characters could be a little long winded and repetitive at times.
Overall, one of my favorite romances this year! Highly recommend.
October 27, 2025
Don’t Tell Me How It Ends is a refreshingly real, modern-day matchmaking romance that doesn’t shy away from the messy truth of dating in the app era.
Kaia Harper is addicted to dating apps. Not for love, but for the quick hits of attention and distraction they provide. Relationship-averse and a little lost, she moves back home with her mother and her pregnant sister, Zo. Zo, ever the optimist, launches a matchmaking company and quickly decides Kaia will be her perfect first client. The setup is ripe for both comedy and heartbreak as Kaia is pushed through a carousel of dates. Some disastrous (my god the first date was the worst), some hopeful, while trying to figure out what she actually wants.
Then comes Ro. A grounded, quietly intense artist who slips into Kaia’s life and starts to challenge her cynicism about love. Their connection builds slowly, tenderly, but also turbulently. Kaia runs hot and cold, and the emotional push-pull might be frustrating for readers.
The fights in this book are gnarly (there's a climax scene and you'll know it when you read it). It's soul baring gnarly, it’s messy, it’s loud, it’s full on right there smacking you in the face. But that's what I really enjoyed about this book. I feel like we get a sanitized version of the dating scene in romance novels these days that this felt like a breath of fresh air.
My only gripe? No epilogue! After investing so deeply in Kaia and Ro, I was dying for just a glimpse of what comes next.
Adding on a quote:
Thank you to Dial Press for the digital ARC!
Kaia Harper is addicted to dating apps. Not for love, but for the quick hits of attention and distraction they provide. Relationship-averse and a little lost, she moves back home with her mother and her pregnant sister, Zo. Zo, ever the optimist, launches a matchmaking company and quickly decides Kaia will be her perfect first client. The setup is ripe for both comedy and heartbreak as Kaia is pushed through a carousel of dates. Some disastrous (my god the first date was the worst), some hopeful, while trying to figure out what she actually wants.
Then comes Ro. A grounded, quietly intense artist who slips into Kaia’s life and starts to challenge her cynicism about love. Their connection builds slowly, tenderly, but also turbulently. Kaia runs hot and cold, and the emotional push-pull might be frustrating for readers.
The fights in this book are gnarly (there's a climax scene and you'll know it when you read it). It's soul baring gnarly, it’s messy, it’s loud, it’s full on right there smacking you in the face. But that's what I really enjoyed about this book. I feel like we get a sanitized version of the dating scene in romance novels these days that this felt like a breath of fresh air.
My only gripe? No epilogue! After investing so deeply in Kaia and Ro, I was dying for just a glimpse of what comes next.
Adding on a quote:
This life is long baby. You're gonna fall backward and start over more times than you ever imagined. And the only thing that changes each time is how quickly you learn to give yourself the grace to do it.
Thank you to Dial Press for the digital ARC!
December 24, 2025
Adjusted Rating: 4.25 stars!!!
POV: 1st Person / Single
Book Spice: Level 1.5 (skippable chapter)
Content Thoughts:
From the moment I received the email offering me an ARC of this book, I was intrigued. The cover alone made me drop everything and start reading immediately, and once I did, I was completely hooked. The writing pulled me in right away, and I could not put the book down. Within a few hours, I was already halfway through, giggling, laughing out loud, and kicking my feet.
The story is structured in a way that feels natural and believable. I really loved the banter between the main characters, as well as the overall plot.
One of the standout elements for me was the FMC’s family dynamic. The lessons learned by the women in this family are challenging, emotional, and very real for so many people. The FMC’s mindset at the beginning of the story was also relatable to me in certain ways, which made her growth even more meaningful.
I especially appreciated that the author did not rush conversations by cutting dialogue short. Scenes were allowed to fully play out, giving us a chance to see complete interactions and the opportunity to truly get to know the characters and sit with their emotions.
That said, I did find myself wishing we could have seen more of the challenges the MMC dealt with in his own life. At the same time, I am glad this was not a dual POV story, as staying solely in the FMC’s perspective allowed the reader to fully experience her confusion and emotional journey alongside her.
I also would have liked a bit more setup around the matchmaking business, though I recognize that adding too much there could have slowed the pacing, so this is more of a personal preference than a major critique.
This was an engaging, heartfelt read that kept me turning pages and left me eager to pick up more books by this author.
Thank you to Penguin Random House for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
POV: 1st Person / Single
Book Spice: Level 1.5 (skippable chapter)
Content Thoughts:
From the moment I received the email offering me an ARC of this book, I was intrigued. The cover alone made me drop everything and start reading immediately, and once I did, I was completely hooked. The writing pulled me in right away, and I could not put the book down. Within a few hours, I was already halfway through, giggling, laughing out loud, and kicking my feet.
The story is structured in a way that feels natural and believable. I really loved the banter between the main characters, as well as the overall plot.
One of the standout elements for me was the FMC’s family dynamic. The lessons learned by the women in this family are challenging, emotional, and very real for so many people. The FMC’s mindset at the beginning of the story was also relatable to me in certain ways, which made her growth even more meaningful.
I especially appreciated that the author did not rush conversations by cutting dialogue short. Scenes were allowed to fully play out, giving us a chance to see complete interactions and the opportunity to truly get to know the characters and sit with their emotions.
That said, I did find myself wishing we could have seen more of the challenges the MMC dealt with in his own life. At the same time, I am glad this was not a dual POV story, as staying solely in the FMC’s perspective allowed the reader to fully experience her confusion and emotional journey alongside her.
I also would have liked a bit more setup around the matchmaking business, though I recognize that adding too much there could have slowed the pacing, so this is more of a personal preference than a major critique.
This was an engaging, heartfelt read that kept me turning pages and left me eager to pick up more books by this author.
Thank you to Penguin Random House for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'm 44% in, and I'm not enjoying this one bit . I really wanted to love this, but it's not grabbing me.
October 13, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley for giving me access to this ARC.
This was definitely a fun read. Kaia Harper moves home when her very pregnant sister’s life begins to unravel. Being unsure of her own path, Kaia, takes the opportunity to help out at home. As she surrounds herself in her hometown, she realizes just how much things have changed and how bleak her love life is. With that in mind, she helps her sister with her matchmaking business not expecting to be her first customer. But is love in the cards for her?
When I first started reading this book I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Kaia. She felt very pessimistic but as you get to know her, you quickly realize she’s carrying so much hurt. Seeing her walls come down with Ro was so cathartic to see. Ngl, I was mad at her sometimes but she really came into her own.
I loved being able to see the bond with her sister grow. There was so much realness and love within their relationship. I was so excited to see her sister is the main focus of the next book. I do kinda wish we had a bigger moment with the mom, but overall the book was well written. I’m excited to see where this series goes.
This was definitely a fun read. Kaia Harper moves home when her very pregnant sister’s life begins to unravel. Being unsure of her own path, Kaia, takes the opportunity to help out at home. As she surrounds herself in her hometown, she realizes just how much things have changed and how bleak her love life is. With that in mind, she helps her sister with her matchmaking business not expecting to be her first customer. But is love in the cards for her?
When I first started reading this book I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Kaia. She felt very pessimistic but as you get to know her, you quickly realize she’s carrying so much hurt. Seeing her walls come down with Ro was so cathartic to see. Ngl, I was mad at her sometimes but she really came into her own.
I loved being able to see the bond with her sister grow. There was so much realness and love within their relationship. I was so excited to see her sister is the main focus of the next book. I do kinda wish we had a bigger moment with the mom, but overall the book was well written. I’m excited to see where this series goes.
January 6, 2026
WOW-- WOW-- WOW!! FIVE STARS BABY!!
From the absolute start this book had me hooked!! The author's voice was sooo refreshing! She remind me of Bolu Babalola (Honey & Spice Author)... This story was so relatable. Kaia's guarded nature and Ro's artistic honest personality balancing each other out made so much sense. Them helping each other heal was actually very therapeutic for me. I was Kaia at one point in time.
I do think I will see some reviews about the FMC choices in this book, but I believe the authors story is theirs. How they want their characters to grow, fail, or thrive is up to them. Ro and Kaia were just sooo relatable!! I loved every part of it. The problems they faced were so real. I myself want Ro Jackson!! I was vividly picturing him in my head. He has topped my book boyfriend list!!
The end of the book included a preview of book 2 about Zola, and I even went on to read that hoping for snippets about future Ro and Kaia!
Thank you NetGalley & Random House for the E-ARC. 🩷
From the absolute start this book had me hooked!! The author's voice was sooo refreshing! She remind me of Bolu Babalola (Honey & Spice Author)... This story was so relatable. Kaia's guarded nature and Ro's artistic honest personality balancing each other out made so much sense. Them helping each other heal was actually very therapeutic for me. I was Kaia at one point in time.
I do think I will see some reviews about the FMC choices in this book, but I believe the authors story is theirs. How they want their characters to grow, fail, or thrive is up to them. Ro and Kaia were just sooo relatable!! I loved every part of it. The problems they faced were so real. I myself want Ro Jackson!! I was vividly picturing him in my head. He has topped my book boyfriend list!!
The end of the book included a preview of book 2 about Zola, and I even went on to read that hoping for snippets about future Ro and Kaia!
Thank you NetGalley & Random House for the E-ARC. 🩷
January 25, 2026
4.5/5
Don’t tell me how this ends it’s a slow burn summertime romance about Kaia, a recent grad going going through this weird transitional period of life and who doesn’t believe in love. She returns to her small hometown to help out her very pregnant, matchmaking sister and her lovesick mom. It’s clear Kaia is lowkey terrified of love, so her sister insists on setting her up on three blind dates. And through out all this she meets Ro, the cutest and sweetest “tow truck guy” you could ever know 🥰 And what starts as friendship slowly grows into something Kaia is seriously not prepared for 😅
I liked Kaia and Ro’s situationship so much. I thought their lil friends to lovers trope was really well done. Ro was so sweet! 🙂↕️💕🙌🏾 Literally the perfect golden retriever MMC. And the way he never wavered with Kaia. He was such a good friend to her and you could just feel the yearning through every interaction they had.
Kaia was frustrating tho tbh. Like I completely understood all her hesitations but at some points it really was like damn girl please stop being scared and let this sweet man into your life!!! It WILL be okay!!! 😮💨🤦🏽♀️ But thankfully she does eventually figure it out and by the end you do feel proud of her for it 🫶🏽
Don’t tell me how this ends it’s a slow burn summertime romance about Kaia, a recent grad going going through this weird transitional period of life and who doesn’t believe in love. She returns to her small hometown to help out her very pregnant, matchmaking sister and her lovesick mom. It’s clear Kaia is lowkey terrified of love, so her sister insists on setting her up on three blind dates. And through out all this she meets Ro, the cutest and sweetest “tow truck guy” you could ever know 🥰 And what starts as friendship slowly grows into something Kaia is seriously not prepared for 😅
I liked Kaia and Ro’s situationship so much. I thought their lil friends to lovers trope was really well done. Ro was so sweet! 🙂↕️💕🙌🏾 Literally the perfect golden retriever MMC. And the way he never wavered with Kaia. He was such a good friend to her and you could just feel the yearning through every interaction they had.
Kaia was frustrating tho tbh. Like I completely understood all her hesitations but at some points it really was like damn girl please stop being scared and let this sweet man into your life!!! It WILL be okay!!! 😮💨🤦🏽♀️ But thankfully she does eventually figure it out and by the end you do feel proud of her for it 🫶🏽
January 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley & Penguin Random House for the invitation to read this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
When Kaia finds herself floundering in life, she leaves her college town and heads back home to be with her mother & pregnant sister. Kaia has a very bad attitude about relationships and men in general. Most of it stems from her father abandoning the family when she was younger. And now, she finds that her sister, who has been in what Kaia considers the "perfect" relationship, is also divorced. Her sister has a dating service and has Kaia go on a few dates to try and fix her attitude. After some of the dates, her attitude is quite warranted. However, in the meantime, there is one guy, Ro, who saved her on the side of the road breakdown that she is "softening" to a bit. Their banter is great, and I found myself rooting for them. I quite enjoyed this debut Rom-Com and was glad for the invitation to read it. If Rom-Com's are your thing, this one is set to release on April 14, 2026.
When Kaia finds herself floundering in life, she leaves her college town and heads back home to be with her mother & pregnant sister. Kaia has a very bad attitude about relationships and men in general. Most of it stems from her father abandoning the family when she was younger. And now, she finds that her sister, who has been in what Kaia considers the "perfect" relationship, is also divorced. Her sister has a dating service and has Kaia go on a few dates to try and fix her attitude. After some of the dates, her attitude is quite warranted. However, in the meantime, there is one guy, Ro, who saved her on the side of the road breakdown that she is "softening" to a bit. Their banter is great, and I found myself rooting for them. I quite enjoyed this debut Rom-Com and was glad for the invitation to read it. If Rom-Com's are your thing, this one is set to release on April 14, 2026.
Want to read
October 9, 2025Thank you to the publisher for the arc
November 20, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and The Dial Press for the ARC!
3.5 stars
What a wonderful debut novel!! The author's voice was so present in this book - unique, fun, and natural. I really enjoyed her writing and I can't wait to see what else she comes out with.
Immediately we are thrown into Kaia's dating life, or more like sex life lol, and it's easy to pick up on how closed off she is towards commitment. Kaia was a nuanced character with a lot of complex feelings when it came to romance, love, and life in general. I'm walking a completely different path of life than she was during this book, but I once knew exactly what it was like to be in her shoes. Feeling aimless, afraid of commitment, a little lost - I understood her intimately. It made me root so hard for her, but also made it that much harder to watch her flounder and resist all the good being offered to her. This book kinda felt like a coming of age story for Kaia more than anything and I really liked seeing the progress she'd made by the end of this.
My man Ro was a saint. The most patient and compassionate man to ever exist. I really appreciated the space and time that he gave Kaia. He was so attuned to her and knew exactly when to push. To be loved is to be known and it was clear that he loved Kaia. That's what made it even more difficult to see him continually get hurt throughout this. Especially taking into account his own personal problems at home. I loved him though - he contained multitudes and had the biggest heart.
The family dynamics between Kaia, Zo, and their mom added a whole other layer of emotional depth to the story. Their relationships were complicated, but rooted in so much love for each other.
I loved the ending, but it felt a little unfinished. It felt like the whole time we were waiting for Ro and Kaia to get together and when they finally did, it ends. I needed more. At the very least, an epilogue. I also kind of just had some unanswered questions about a lot, not just Kaia and Ro lol. Like, I'm genuinely wondering if there will be another book because it feels like there's still more to build on. Maybe that's just me though. Regardless, I loved this book and would definitely recommend!
3.5 stars
What a wonderful debut novel!! The author's voice was so present in this book - unique, fun, and natural. I really enjoyed her writing and I can't wait to see what else she comes out with.
Immediately we are thrown into Kaia's dating life, or more like sex life lol, and it's easy to pick up on how closed off she is towards commitment. Kaia was a nuanced character with a lot of complex feelings when it came to romance, love, and life in general. I'm walking a completely different path of life than she was during this book, but I once knew exactly what it was like to be in her shoes. Feeling aimless, afraid of commitment, a little lost - I understood her intimately. It made me root so hard for her, but also made it that much harder to watch her flounder and resist all the good being offered to her. This book kinda felt like a coming of age story for Kaia more than anything and I really liked seeing the progress she'd made by the end of this.
My man Ro was a saint. The most patient and compassionate man to ever exist. I really appreciated the space and time that he gave Kaia. He was so attuned to her and knew exactly when to push. To be loved is to be known and it was clear that he loved Kaia. That's what made it even more difficult to see him continually get hurt throughout this. Especially taking into account his own personal problems at home. I loved him though - he contained multitudes and had the biggest heart.
The family dynamics between Kaia, Zo, and their mom added a whole other layer of emotional depth to the story. Their relationships were complicated, but rooted in so much love for each other.
I loved the ending, but it felt a little unfinished. It felt like the whole time we were waiting for Ro and Kaia to get together and when they finally did, it ends. I needed more. At the very least, an epilogue. I also kind of just had some unanswered questions about a lot, not just Kaia and Ro lol. Like, I'm genuinely wondering if there will be another book because it feels like there's still more to build on. Maybe that's just me though. Regardless, I loved this book and would definitely recommend!
January 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️My review: Kaia is scared of relationships and scared of life. She won't admit it because it's easier to play the tough woman. She studied to be a teacher, but it's not her passion. She finds it easier to be alone so that she won't be disappointed by a man. Kaia can trust her mom, her best friend Liv, and her newly unemployed, single and pregnant older sister.
Then she meets Ro. He's an artist who isn't scared of people. He happens to be to rescue Kaia once or twice and she is just annoyed by that. When both of them sign up to help her sister to start her new match making business, things start moving.
Overall I stayed engaged with this book. Kaia and her sister Zola have an amazing relationship (and there will be a book about Zo next). Honest and fun and supportive. Kaia was a little over the top with her "men are the worst and will always disappoint you" attitude, but she had lessons to learn. One of my least favorite tropes is the "love isn't worth it" grumpy MC but this book moved along nicely. I will read the next one for sure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for an advance digital copy. These opinions are my own.
Then she meets Ro. He's an artist who isn't scared of people. He happens to be to rescue Kaia once or twice and she is just annoyed by that. When both of them sign up to help her sister to start her new match making business, things start moving.
Overall I stayed engaged with this book. Kaia and her sister Zola have an amazing relationship (and there will be a book about Zo next). Honest and fun and supportive. Kaia was a little over the top with her "men are the worst and will always disappoint you" attitude, but she had lessons to learn. One of my least favorite tropes is the "love isn't worth it" grumpy MC but this book moved along nicely. I will read the next one for sure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for an advance digital copy. These opinions are my own.
October 14, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with access to this ARC. This was an amazing read. I can’t believe this is Adrienne's debut novel! Every character was believable. I loved how each scene was written. I felt like I was there.
This book takes us on a journey with Kaia as she comes face-to-face with the damage caused by her dad abandoning her family. Watching her struggle with finding herself and having the courage to open her heart again is both relatable and heartbreaking. Trying her hardest not to become what she’s seen, Kaia comes face-to-face with her trauma when an unexpected relationship comes knocking at her door.
I found myself extremely frustrated with Kaia’s self-destructive behavior at times. However, I could give her grace because I understood her pain. Kaia’s development throughout the book was remarkable.
I enjoyed seeing Ro and Kaia develop a friendship. It was refreshing to see Kaia find a safe place for her to be without pressures or expectations. I loved how Ro challenged and cared for her.
Overall, this was a great read and left me wanting more!
This book takes us on a journey with Kaia as she comes face-to-face with the damage caused by her dad abandoning her family. Watching her struggle with finding herself and having the courage to open her heart again is both relatable and heartbreaking. Trying her hardest not to become what she’s seen, Kaia comes face-to-face with her trauma when an unexpected relationship comes knocking at her door.
I found myself extremely frustrated with Kaia’s self-destructive behavior at times. However, I could give her grace because I understood her pain. Kaia’s development throughout the book was remarkable.
I enjoyed seeing Ro and Kaia develop a friendship. It was refreshing to see Kaia find a safe place for her to be without pressures or expectations. I loved how Ro challenged and cared for her.
Overall, this was a great read and left me wanting more!
November 10, 2025
Thank you to Penguin Random House for this advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed following Kai on her journey of self improvement and discovery. She’s tussling with her career and moves back home to root herself and find out what she wants in life. The sister relationship shines through as the prime connection for me in this book! I love Kai and Zo’s relationship. Very real and raw for sister relationships. On the romance end if you love a slow burn, Kai and Ro story is right up your alley. I personally love how their story started and how shy and smitten they were at first.
However, while it took Kai and Ro awhile to get together I felt like the book left much to be desired. The books just…ends and you’re left thinking huh? And while I love Kai and Zo’s relationship I felt Zo and the mother really didn’t understand Kai. Zo and Kai grew up with the same parents and seems like they had similar experiences but Zo just doesn’t get her sister when I swear they’re on the same page most times. Kai is committed to being misunderstood and her mother & sister are happy to go along with it. I swear they have the same judgmental conversation about her behavior every other chapter.
Overall, pretty decent read with funny characters whose dialogue entertains readers.
I enjoyed following Kai on her journey of self improvement and discovery. She’s tussling with her career and moves back home to root herself and find out what she wants in life. The sister relationship shines through as the prime connection for me in this book! I love Kai and Zo’s relationship. Very real and raw for sister relationships. On the romance end if you love a slow burn, Kai and Ro story is right up your alley. I personally love how their story started and how shy and smitten they were at first.
However, while it took Kai and Ro awhile to get together I felt like the book left much to be desired. The books just…ends and you’re left thinking huh? And while I love Kai and Zo’s relationship I felt Zo and the mother really didn’t understand Kai. Zo and Kai grew up with the same parents and seems like they had similar experiences but Zo just doesn’t get her sister when I swear they’re on the same page most times. Kai is committed to being misunderstood and her mother & sister are happy to go along with it. I swear they have the same judgmental conversation about her behavior every other chapter.
Overall, pretty decent read with funny characters whose dialogue entertains readers.
November 1, 2025
Thurman writes with warmth and humor; I laughed out loud more than once and genuinely cared about these two imperfect people. The dialogue feels lived-in, and the emotional beats around fear of love and inherited heartbreak land beautifully.
A few quibbles: Kaia’s avoidance becomes frustrating at times, to the point of self-sabotage, and her childhood friend Liv adds little beyond a convenient plot hand-off. There are also minor grammatical hiccups, but the ARC notes that final edits are pending.
Verdict:
A beautiful, character-driven rom-com about healing, responsibility, and choosing to be known. Smart, funny, and emotionally grounded—a strong 4.5 stars.
Tags: #RomCom #EmotionalGrowth #SlowBurn #FoundHome #FamilyDrama #ARCReview
A few quibbles: Kaia’s avoidance becomes frustrating at times, to the point of self-sabotage, and her childhood friend Liv adds little beyond a convenient plot hand-off. There are also minor grammatical hiccups, but the ARC notes that final edits are pending.
Verdict:
A beautiful, character-driven rom-com about healing, responsibility, and choosing to be known. Smart, funny, and emotionally grounded—a strong 4.5 stars.
Tags: #RomCom #EmotionalGrowth #SlowBurn #FoundHome #FamilyDrama #ARCReview
January 26, 2026
This was Adrienne Thurman’s debut novel. Her author bio includes that she writes “gloriously unlikely women get the happily ever afters” and she delivered. I really didn’t like the FMC. She was a very immature and selfish character that treated the MMC poorly. But of course he stuck around because he is amazing and they did get an happily ever after. Overall a good debut novel but I wish I liked the FMC more!
3.5 🌟 out 4/14/26
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
3.5 🌟 out 4/14/26
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Random House for the ARC.
This was a fun take on modern relationships. I personally could not be further from relating to any of these characters, and the story was quite predictable from the moment we met Ro. I overall enjoyed the depth he had and the depiction of his art gallery but Kaia was a bit insufferable as a character. Maybe others enjoy a main character who is self sabatoging the entire time but she was killing me girl. I could picture this as a movie which does say a lot about how the author writes which I appreciate. This book is not entirely for me but I think a lot of romcom lovers will love this when it comes out!
This was a fun take on modern relationships. I personally could not be further from relating to any of these characters, and the story was quite predictable from the moment we met Ro. I overall enjoyed the depth he had and the depiction of his art gallery but Kaia was a bit insufferable as a character. Maybe others enjoy a main character who is self sabatoging the entire time but she was killing me girl. I could picture this as a movie which does say a lot about how the author writes which I appreciate. This book is not entirely for me but I think a lot of romcom lovers will love this when it comes out!
October 19, 2025
thank you so much for the invite to read this book as an arc!!
ill say contemporary romance hasnt been my go to lately but this one did entertain me a lot and i really think i read it at the right time. i connected with the fmc and i think thats why i enjoyed this story so much
more than a romance, we also get the sisters dinamic and the journey of our girl with her doubts and all. plus, this was such a fast fast read. i couldnt put it down and binged it, in one quick sitting. def reccomend.
ill say contemporary romance hasnt been my go to lately but this one did entertain me a lot and i really think i read it at the right time. i connected with the fmc and i think thats why i enjoyed this story so much
more than a romance, we also get the sisters dinamic and the journey of our girl with her doubts and all. plus, this was such a fast fast read. i couldnt put it down and binged it, in one quick sitting. def reccomend.
December 8, 2025
Kaia doesn’t believe in happy endings- she’s experienced too much heartbreak in her life for that. But when her newly single pregnant sister decides to strike it on her own as a professional matchmaker, she grudgingly agrees to help build the new business by allowing herself to get set up.
Back home and with no career prospects, Kaia endures a series of bad dates when she gets rescued from the roadside by an unbelievably hot tow truck driver Ro, who turns out to be an up and coming artist in New York City. Ro is back home too- on family matters, deferring his dreams in order to take care of his ailing father.
Kaia and Ro become friends, and then much more than that, but she pushes him away due to her distrust of romantic love. But Ro falls first and hard and he won’t give up on Kaia’s heart that easily.
With a relatable and steamy slow burn love story, a fun meet cute and a vibrant cast of characters, and featuring an emotional quarter life crisis, this debut will appeal to twentysomethings and those wanting to revisit that era of their lives.
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House, Dial Press Trade Paperback for providing me with a complimentary advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Back home and with no career prospects, Kaia endures a series of bad dates when she gets rescued from the roadside by an unbelievably hot tow truck driver Ro, who turns out to be an up and coming artist in New York City. Ro is back home too- on family matters, deferring his dreams in order to take care of his ailing father.
Kaia and Ro become friends, and then much more than that, but she pushes him away due to her distrust of romantic love. But Ro falls first and hard and he won’t give up on Kaia’s heart that easily.
With a relatable and steamy slow burn love story, a fun meet cute and a vibrant cast of characters, and featuring an emotional quarter life crisis, this debut will appeal to twentysomethings and those wanting to revisit that era of their lives.
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House, Dial Press Trade Paperback for providing me with a complimentary advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC and provide my honest opinion.
Can I just give a shout-out to the cover designer, 'cos this cover is amazing!!! 😍 Now, to the plot... Kaia Harper, a floundering twenty-something year old who's sworn off romance, finds herself roped into her meddling sister's new matchmaking business.
We meet Kaia, and to be honest, I was instantly put off by her character – like, girll, we get it: you have severe daddy issues, you're scared of decisions and what to choose, you don't know what to do with your life and the degree you have, and you don't want love and relationships. You want casual... and then you accept being a client for your sister's matchmaking business, how!!! 🤦 If you know you don't want relationships.
I don't like the way they did my boy, Ro Jackson!! 😂 He was always begging, begging for crumbs of attention from Kaia, and she knew that and still would turnaround and blame Ro for ghosting her when he did nothing of such!!!
And regarding the matches, I knew that nothing would come out of it, but they did my boy dirty, and I don't like it 😭.
Overall, I didn't like Kaia, and I didn't like Kaia and Ro together; I couldn't root for them. Thank you for the e-ARC.
Can I just give a shout-out to the cover designer, 'cos this cover is amazing!!! 😍 Now, to the plot... Kaia Harper, a floundering twenty-something year old who's sworn off romance, finds herself roped into her meddling sister's new matchmaking business.
We meet Kaia, and to be honest, I was instantly put off by her character – like, girll, we get it: you have severe daddy issues, you're scared of decisions and what to choose, you don't know what to do with your life and the degree you have, and you don't want love and relationships. You want casual... and then you accept being a client for your sister's matchmaking business, how!!! 🤦 If you know you don't want relationships.
I don't like the way they did my boy, Ro Jackson!! 😂 He was always begging, begging for crumbs of attention from Kaia, and she knew that and still would turnaround and blame Ro for ghosting her when he did nothing of such!!!
And regarding the matches, I knew that nothing would come out of it, but they did my boy dirty, and I don't like it 😭.
Overall, I didn't like Kaia, and I didn't like Kaia and Ro together; I couldn't root for them. Thank you for the e-ARC.
October 10, 2025
This was a fun read! Zola’s life has turned upside down and her sister Kaia agrees to be her first client with her new dating business.
I enjoyed the depth of Ro and Kaia’s relationship. It felt genuine and the progression of it felt natural. I loved getting to know every character!
I enjoyed the depth of Ro and Kaia’s relationship. It felt genuine and the progression of it felt natural. I loved getting to know every character!
February 1, 2026
I really enjoyed this! I love Kaia and Ro’s friendship and their banter. I really felt like a part Kaia’s close knit family. It was insightful seeing how each woman navigated their relationship with love and romance too. The characters were imperfect and real which made the story feel super natural. This is a such cute romance! I read it all in a day lol
Thank you Netgalley and Random House for the ARC.
Thank you Netgalley and Random House for the ARC.
October 13, 2025
This is a cute book about Kai, who has casual hookups with guys and her best friend, Liv wants her to meet Travis. But when Kai's car breaks down she meets Ro when he must tow her car. It's a fun read as Thurman explores the world of dating as women experience men who are there just for fun and men who are looking for a woman who is serious about her own life!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
January 25, 2026
This was a wonderful debut novel, and I really enjoyed the writing. I especially love romance books that also have depth in the characters, and I appreciated the relationship between Kaia and her sister Zola, along with the overall family dynamic with their mom.
The romance between Kai and Ro had some sweet moments, and while it was a slow burn, that didn’t bother me at all since I enjoy that type of pacing. However, the ending felt a bit abrupt, like something was missing.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and heartfelt read that I would recommend, especially for readers who enjoy character-driven romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the eARC
The romance between Kai and Ro had some sweet moments, and while it was a slow burn, that didn’t bother me at all since I enjoy that type of pacing. However, the ending felt a bit abrupt, like something was missing.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and heartfelt read that I would recommend, especially for readers who enjoy character-driven romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the eARC
December 4, 2025
📚Don't Tell Me How It Ends
✍🏻Adrienne Thurman
Blurb:
A floundering twenty-something, who’s sworn off romance finds herself roped into her meddling sister’s matchmaking business—in this sparkling debut rom-com that asks: can we protect ourselves while falling in love?
Kaia Harper may not have a plan for her life, but she knows what she won't be doing—falling for somebody's dusty son, promising forever. She'd rather spend the summer after college having disappointing one-night stands and watching crime show reruns. At least she won’t be caught off guard since she already knows how all those stories end.
But when her very pregnant and newly single sister calls for help, Kaia reroutes, stumbling back home to suburban Connecticut…and into the business plan of her sister's new matchmaking company. Kaia’s views on love remain as bleak as her career prospects, but if becoming the inaugural client can distract her from existential questions like "What am I even doing with my life?", Kaia will suffer through a few bad dates and call it a favor.
When Ro Jackson finds Kaia stalled on the side of the road, he isn’t put off by her attitude. His steady disposition is Kaia’s opposite and makes him exactly what she needs—a friend in town who can handle her just as she is. But as Ro talks Kaia through a summer of failed matches, she finds herself drawn to more than just his poetic outlook and friendship.
Kaia hadn’t seen this one coming, but as she and Ro grow closer, she’ll have to decide what’s more important: needing to know the end of every story, or jumping into the unknown.
My Thoughts:
Fresh, relatable, intriguing, and charming characters. Witty banter and promising tension from the first interaction. Emotional stakes that gave the entire story depth. Everything I could want out of a romance novel.I knew within the first few pages that I would love this book & I was right. I thoroughly enjoyed the sister relationship in this book & their trauma bonding. The support & love (sometimes hard love) was beautiful & a testament to the sibling bond. Not to mention, a matchmaking business to prove to our FMC that love is worth finding!
Thanks NetGalley, Dial Press Trade Paperback and Author Adrienne Thurman for the advanced copy of "Don't Tell Me How It Ends" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#DealPressTradePaperback
#AdrienneThurman
#Don'tTellMeHowItEnds
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Adrienne Thurman
Blurb:
A floundering twenty-something, who’s sworn off romance finds herself roped into her meddling sister’s matchmaking business—in this sparkling debut rom-com that asks: can we protect ourselves while falling in love?
Kaia Harper may not have a plan for her life, but she knows what she won't be doing—falling for somebody's dusty son, promising forever. She'd rather spend the summer after college having disappointing one-night stands and watching crime show reruns. At least she won’t be caught off guard since she already knows how all those stories end.
But when her very pregnant and newly single sister calls for help, Kaia reroutes, stumbling back home to suburban Connecticut…and into the business plan of her sister's new matchmaking company. Kaia’s views on love remain as bleak as her career prospects, but if becoming the inaugural client can distract her from existential questions like "What am I even doing with my life?", Kaia will suffer through a few bad dates and call it a favor.
When Ro Jackson finds Kaia stalled on the side of the road, he isn’t put off by her attitude. His steady disposition is Kaia’s opposite and makes him exactly what she needs—a friend in town who can handle her just as she is. But as Ro talks Kaia through a summer of failed matches, she finds herself drawn to more than just his poetic outlook and friendship.
Kaia hadn’t seen this one coming, but as she and Ro grow closer, she’ll have to decide what’s more important: needing to know the end of every story, or jumping into the unknown.
My Thoughts:
Fresh, relatable, intriguing, and charming characters. Witty banter and promising tension from the first interaction. Emotional stakes that gave the entire story depth. Everything I could want out of a romance novel.I knew within the first few pages that I would love this book & I was right. I thoroughly enjoyed the sister relationship in this book & their trauma bonding. The support & love (sometimes hard love) was beautiful & a testament to the sibling bond. Not to mention, a matchmaking business to prove to our FMC that love is worth finding!
Thanks NetGalley, Dial Press Trade Paperback and Author Adrienne Thurman for the advanced copy of "Don't Tell Me How It Ends" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#DealPressTradePaperback
#AdrienneThurman
#Don'tTellMeHowItEnds
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 28, 2025
Okay, this one was something different in the best way. It felt like a fresh take on romance. Most of what I read leans more cute and demure, but this story was hard, raw, and necessary, especially for Kaia. Kaia is scared. Scared of moving forward. Scared of love. Scared to really live. And then Ro comes along and shows her that life doesn’t have to be all bad, that it’s truly what you make it.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, but the ending felt so abrupt. I kept swiping, thinking I missed something, and then… it was just over. We do get a glimpse of the next book (Zola’s, which I’m excited about), but I wanted a real wrap-up for Kaia and Ro after watching their love story grow.
Kaia’s emotional journey felt painfully real. She perfectly represented how so many people who have been abandoned feel like they’re never going to be good enough for a healthy relationship, so why even try. Shoutout to her sister for pushing her to actually start dating and experience life again. And that booty call scene? Whew 😭 that was raw and uncomfortable in the most honest way. I was literally yelling, “Sis, please want better for yourself!”
I also loved how the book showed that college doesn’t always lead straight into a dream job. Kaia feeling lost after finishing her degree hit close to home. Not everyone walks out of school knowing exactly what they want to do, and this story didn’t shy away from that reality. The way we see both Kaia’s and Ro’s family lives really drove home that life be life-ing, but you still have to show up for the people you love. This book wasn’t just about romance, it was also about friendships, siblings, and mother-daughter relationships, and how you have to pour into what you want to grow.
This is written in first person, which usually isn’t my favorite since I prefer multiple perspectives, but this was done so well. It completely pulled me into Kaia’s world and made everything feel intimate and real.
Now listen… I have to say this because it lived in my head the whole time 😂 Not you going from a nasty bar bathroom, sweaty, people touching on you, into a rideshare, and straight into this man’s fresh sheets. Baby, where is the shower?! My mind could not let that go during brunch or after brunch. I was stressed.
At the end of the day, the biggest message I took from this book was: let go and just live.
Thank you to Random House/Dial Press for the early copy. I thoroughly enjoyed this refreshing and emotional read.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, but the ending felt so abrupt. I kept swiping, thinking I missed something, and then… it was just over. We do get a glimpse of the next book (Zola’s, which I’m excited about), but I wanted a real wrap-up for Kaia and Ro after watching their love story grow.
Kaia’s emotional journey felt painfully real. She perfectly represented how so many people who have been abandoned feel like they’re never going to be good enough for a healthy relationship, so why even try. Shoutout to her sister for pushing her to actually start dating and experience life again. And that booty call scene? Whew 😭 that was raw and uncomfortable in the most honest way. I was literally yelling, “Sis, please want better for yourself!”
I also loved how the book showed that college doesn’t always lead straight into a dream job. Kaia feeling lost after finishing her degree hit close to home. Not everyone walks out of school knowing exactly what they want to do, and this story didn’t shy away from that reality. The way we see both Kaia’s and Ro’s family lives really drove home that life be life-ing, but you still have to show up for the people you love. This book wasn’t just about romance, it was also about friendships, siblings, and mother-daughter relationships, and how you have to pour into what you want to grow.
This is written in first person, which usually isn’t my favorite since I prefer multiple perspectives, but this was done so well. It completely pulled me into Kaia’s world and made everything feel intimate and real.
Now listen… I have to say this because it lived in my head the whole time 😂 Not you going from a nasty bar bathroom, sweaty, people touching on you, into a rideshare, and straight into this man’s fresh sheets. Baby, where is the shower?! My mind could not let that go during brunch or after brunch. I was stressed.
At the end of the day, the biggest message I took from this book was: let go and just live.
Thank you to Random House/Dial Press for the early copy. I thoroughly enjoyed this refreshing and emotional read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️
From the very first line, this story grabbed me. Don’t Tell Me How It Ends delivers an emotional punch wrapped in sharp humor, tender vulnerability, and a romance that sneaks up on you in the best way.
Kaia might initially come across as the ultimate black-cat loner. The kind of woman who has zero interest in dating and treats commitment like it’s contagious. Quick, no-strings encounters? Sure. Anything deeper? Absolutely not. But as the layers peel back, you quickly realize her outlook is rooted in heartbreak, abandonment, and the kind of childhood wounds that leave lasting scars. Her tough exterior isn’t apathy, it’s armor.
Enter Ro Jackson, who accidentally barrels into Kaia’s life not once, not twice, but in perfectly chaotic, tension-filled run-ins that feel like fate playing matchmaker. Their dynamic is prickly, hilarious, and impossible not to root for. And when circumstances push them into each other’s orbit again, the shift from awkward encounters to genuine friendship is beautifully paced. As their bond deepens, so does their attraction, and watching Kaia slowly let someone in is nothing short of breathtaking.
Ro is the kind of MMC who makes you melt from the inside out. He’s real, grounded, patient, and emotionally mature in a way that feels refreshing. He sees Kaia. Not just her walls, but the soft heart she tries so hard to hide. He treats her with a quiet tenderness that’s impossible not to swoon over.
Kaia, in turn, is a phenomenal FMC: raw, funny, fiercely protective of her heart, and so incredibly human. Her growth is one of the most rewarding aspects of the story.
The supporting cast only elevates the experience. Kaia’s sister Zola (pregnant and persistent in the funniest ways), their mom, and Ro’s wonderful parents create two warm, relatable, and heartfelt family dynamics that enrich the entire journey.
While this isn’t a heavy-spice romance, the moments we do get? Immediately yes! They are beautifully written in that grown-folks loving kind of way. They are intentional, deeply emotional scenes that fit the story perfectly. Nothing gratuitous, just passion with purpose.
Overall, this book was phenomenal. Emotional. Heartwarming. Engaging from start to finish. I genuinely wish I could experience it for the first time all over again. If you love character-driven romance with real depth, tender vulnerability, and chemistry that simmers into something unforgettable, you need this one on your TBR.
Absolutely five stars. Absolutely recommended. 💕📚✨
From the very first line, this story grabbed me. Don’t Tell Me How It Ends delivers an emotional punch wrapped in sharp humor, tender vulnerability, and a romance that sneaks up on you in the best way.
Kaia might initially come across as the ultimate black-cat loner. The kind of woman who has zero interest in dating and treats commitment like it’s contagious. Quick, no-strings encounters? Sure. Anything deeper? Absolutely not. But as the layers peel back, you quickly realize her outlook is rooted in heartbreak, abandonment, and the kind of childhood wounds that leave lasting scars. Her tough exterior isn’t apathy, it’s armor.
Enter Ro Jackson, who accidentally barrels into Kaia’s life not once, not twice, but in perfectly chaotic, tension-filled run-ins that feel like fate playing matchmaker. Their dynamic is prickly, hilarious, and impossible not to root for. And when circumstances push them into each other’s orbit again, the shift from awkward encounters to genuine friendship is beautifully paced. As their bond deepens, so does their attraction, and watching Kaia slowly let someone in is nothing short of breathtaking.
Ro is the kind of MMC who makes you melt from the inside out. He’s real, grounded, patient, and emotionally mature in a way that feels refreshing. He sees Kaia. Not just her walls, but the soft heart she tries so hard to hide. He treats her with a quiet tenderness that’s impossible not to swoon over.
Kaia, in turn, is a phenomenal FMC: raw, funny, fiercely protective of her heart, and so incredibly human. Her growth is one of the most rewarding aspects of the story.
The supporting cast only elevates the experience. Kaia’s sister Zola (pregnant and persistent in the funniest ways), their mom, and Ro’s wonderful parents create two warm, relatable, and heartfelt family dynamics that enrich the entire journey.
While this isn’t a heavy-spice romance, the moments we do get? Immediately yes! They are beautifully written in that grown-folks loving kind of way. They are intentional, deeply emotional scenes that fit the story perfectly. Nothing gratuitous, just passion with purpose.
Overall, this book was phenomenal. Emotional. Heartwarming. Engaging from start to finish. I genuinely wish I could experience it for the first time all over again. If you love character-driven romance with real depth, tender vulnerability, and chemistry that simmers into something unforgettable, you need this one on your TBR.
Absolutely five stars. Absolutely recommended. 💕📚✨
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶
Format: 📱 Kindle
Pub date: April 14, 2026
💭 So, bomb fishing it is-swiping right on anyone in this half-empty college town who looks like they might be up-to-date on their shots.
💭 The best thing about having sex with men you'll never see again is that you don't have to wonder if it's good for them. The worst part is that it goes both ways.
You meet the FMC who leaves her job and flies home to be with her mom and her sister - who is also going through some things. She gets into an argument with a guy who tells her to move her car from the fire hydrant spot on the sidewalk, only for him to be the one to save her ass later on down the road... pun intended. He's artsy, she's sassy, and they fall into a weird friendship that seems to work for them.
Kai's sister sets her up on dates for her "business" and when she has a bad date, who does she contact? YOU GUESSED IT! Ro. He comes to her rescue, they talk it through and laugh and she gets comfy, only to go onto the next date and rinse, lather, repeat.
Slooowwww burn, but totally worth the wait.
This book had me CACKLING!!! Omg! Okay, so my husband was sitting beside me playing video games while I was reading this, and when I got to the scene with her needing to be towed, I actually laughed so loud that I made my husband jump 🤣 I 100% did NOT expect him to be all "White audi?" ..."How did you-" HAHAHAHAH! Omg I was dying.
This was SUCH an awesome book. I had a blast reading it.
The dynamic between the characters was amazing! The sister being pregnant with her mood swings was on point. The mom with her "dating" habits had me laughing and feeling antsy for the FMC and Zo at the same time.
Ro? Omg... Ro. He is swoon-worthy. I absolutely loved his character. And Mr. Jackson? UGH! I loved him toooooo 😭The characters were sooooo well written.
You will WANT to add this to your TBR and make sure to download it as soon as it releases. I will be telling everyone about this book!
This was an ARC. Thank you Dial Press Trade and NetGalley for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Spice: 🌶🌶
Format: 📱 Kindle
Pub date: April 14, 2026
💭 So, bomb fishing it is-swiping right on anyone in this half-empty college town who looks like they might be up-to-date on their shots.
💭 The best thing about having sex with men you'll never see again is that you don't have to wonder if it's good for them. The worst part is that it goes both ways.
You meet the FMC who leaves her job and flies home to be with her mom and her sister - who is also going through some things. She gets into an argument with a guy who tells her to move her car from the fire hydrant spot on the sidewalk, only for him to be the one to save her ass later on down the road... pun intended. He's artsy, she's sassy, and they fall into a weird friendship that seems to work for them.
Kai's sister sets her up on dates for her "business" and when she has a bad date, who does she contact? YOU GUESSED IT! Ro. He comes to her rescue, they talk it through and laugh and she gets comfy, only to go onto the next date and rinse, lather, repeat.
Slooowwww burn, but totally worth the wait.
This book had me CACKLING!!! Omg! Okay, so my husband was sitting beside me playing video games while I was reading this, and when I got to the scene with her needing to be towed, I actually laughed so loud that I made my husband jump 🤣 I 100% did NOT expect him to be all "White audi?" ..."How did you-" HAHAHAHAH! Omg I was dying.
This was SUCH an awesome book. I had a blast reading it.
The dynamic between the characters was amazing! The sister being pregnant with her mood swings was on point. The mom with her "dating" habits had me laughing and feeling antsy for the FMC and Zo at the same time.
Ro? Omg... Ro. He is swoon-worthy. I absolutely loved his character. And Mr. Jackson? UGH! I loved him toooooo 😭The characters were sooooo well written.
You will WANT to add this to your TBR and make sure to download it as soon as it releases. I will be telling everyone about this book!
This was an ARC. Thank you Dial Press Trade and NetGalley for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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