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The Wrong Kind of Perfect: A Picture Perfect Life, with a Perfectly Wrong Secret
What if the life you built… wasn’t the one meant for you?
Natalie Bradford should be happy.
She has everything she ever dreamed of — a loving husband, two wonderful children, and a beautiful life in sunny Orange County. But behind the curated smiles and perfectly packed school lunches lies a woman slowly unraveling. Her marriage is more routine than romance. Her days blur together. And somewhere along the way, Natalie lost sight of who she really is.
Then comes Will Parker.
He’s everything she’s not supposed to want — gorgeous, magnetic, and completely off-limits. But their connection is undeniable. A chance encounter becomes something deeper, more dangerous. As the tension builds, so does Natalie’s craving for something real… something that reminds her she’s still alive.
Torn between loyalty and longing, Natalie must
Is she willing to risk everything for the wrong kind of perfect?
The Wrong Kind of Perfect is an emotional, slow-burn romance that explores love, identity, and second chances. Perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez, Carley Fortune, and emotionally layered women’s fiction with a romantic edge.
Natalie Bradford should be happy.
She has everything she ever dreamed of — a loving husband, two wonderful children, and a beautiful life in sunny Orange County. But behind the curated smiles and perfectly packed school lunches lies a woman slowly unraveling. Her marriage is more routine than romance. Her days blur together. And somewhere along the way, Natalie lost sight of who she really is.
Then comes Will Parker.
He’s everything she’s not supposed to want — gorgeous, magnetic, and completely off-limits. But their connection is undeniable. A chance encounter becomes something deeper, more dangerous. As the tension builds, so does Natalie’s craving for something real… something that reminds her she’s still alive.
Torn between loyalty and longing, Natalie must
Is she willing to risk everything for the wrong kind of perfect?
The Wrong Kind of Perfect is an emotional, slow-burn romance that explores love, identity, and second chances. Perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez, Carley Fortune, and emotionally layered women’s fiction with a romantic edge.
- GenresContemporaryRomance
252 pages, Paperback
Published September 16, 2025
About the author
Jillian Marie
3 books35 followersJillian Marie writes slow-burn romance with emotional depth, flawed characters, and stories that linger. Her books explore love in all its messy, meaningful forms—especially the kind that doesn’t follow the rules.
She’s a mom of three girls and finds joy in baking, reading, Pilates, and winding down with a cup of tea and honey. She writes at home—or in her car while her daughters are at dance—and finds inspiration in the quiet in-between moments of everyday life.
She lives with her husband and daughters in Southern California.
She’s a mom of three girls and finds joy in baking, reading, Pilates, and winding down with a cup of tea and honey. She writes at home—or in her car while her daughters are at dance—and finds inspiration in the quiet in-between moments of everyday life.
She lives with her husband and daughters in Southern California.
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August 20, 2025I really wanted to love this one yall, but unfortunately, it was just more miss than hit for me.
I was incredibly lucky to get the chance to arc read The Wrong Kind of Perfect, and was drawn to this because of several of the tropes being some of my favorites (single dad, forbidden romance), I just struggled to stay connected and invested in Natalie's story.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- slow burn romance
- second chance at love
- single parent
- forbidden
- familial drama
I was incredibly lucky to get the chance to arc read The Wrong Kind of Perfect, and was drawn to this because of several of the tropes being some of my favorites (single dad, forbidden romance), I just struggled to stay connected and invested in Natalie's story.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- slow burn romance
- second chance at love
- single parent
- forbidden
- familial drama
February 6, 2026
Wow! One of the most real and raw books I have ever read. Jillian took the hardships of a marriage falling apart and depicted them perfectly on the page with so much love and care. The emotions felt while navigating the heartbreaking disconnect within a relationship, and the struggle of fighting for your family, only to ultimately realize you must fight for yourself first!
In this book you get it all, but the standout for me was the female friendships the FMC has with her sister and close friend. They were her rock throughout the entire book and were always there with solid advice, to pick her up when she was down and were already a step ahead and ready for her to lean on them!
Great job, Jillian! 💕
In this book you get it all, but the standout for me was the female friendships the FMC has with her sister and close friend. They were her rock throughout the entire book and were always there with solid advice, to pick her up when she was down and were already a step ahead and ready for her to lean on them!
Great job, Jillian! 💕
September 25, 2025
there was a lot about this book that i liked. the single dad, unhappily married woman, supportive family members. the children in each family, ivy and bebe were just darling girls. they made me feel nostalgic for my younger years, with the endless playdates, surprise sleepovers, pizza for dinner.
this book will probably face criticism for the actions of all 3 characters and how selfish they all were, and i would disagree. i think their actions were very realistic. i think their emotions were justified.
i also want to compliment the author's ability to craft such natural, effortless dialogue.
where my frustration grew was with the three person POV. while i enjoyed being in the heads of our three main characters, i think this story would have been smoother if it was just 3rd person POV. i don't want to hear about how character #1 felt about character #2's actions from 3 chapters ago. there were also a couple scenes that were repeated 3 times for each characters POV and that just drove me crazy.
i LOVED the ending. let's get that clear. i'm glad the author chose to end natalie's story the way she did.
thank you to love story PR and the author for allowing me to read this ahead of it's release! i will come back on release day to leave my star rating.
this book will probably face criticism for the actions of all 3 characters and how selfish they all were, and i would disagree. i think their actions were very realistic. i think their emotions were justified.
i also want to compliment the author's ability to craft such natural, effortless dialogue.
where my frustration grew was with the three person POV. while i enjoyed being in the heads of our three main characters, i think this story would have been smoother if it was just 3rd person POV. i don't want to hear about how character #1 felt about character #2's actions from 3 chapters ago. there were also a couple scenes that were repeated 3 times for each characters POV and that just drove me crazy.
i LOVED the ending. let's get that clear. i'm glad the author chose to end natalie's story the way she did.
thank you to love story PR and the author for allowing me to read this ahead of it's release! i will come back on release day to leave my star rating.
September 16, 2025
What a debut!
Natalie, Jason and Will have all made decisions and definitely over stepped boundaries. Natalie and Jason are married but almost living separate lives. You can see how Natalie is losing herself in her marriage and she is struggling. Jason is gone during the week traveling because of work so that leaves Natalie on her own with the kids during the week.
Will is a divorce dad to four and a very plain house. His youngest daughter and Natalie’s daughter are best friends! So when they are together that brings Will and Natalie together more. They have instant chemistry and they both fight to ignore it. What happens when they can't fight it anymore?
Natalie is left to make lots of tough decisions. Jason finds out some truths and it sets his reality into perspective. That causes him to make some changes but what happens when the full truth is released?
Natalie, Jason and Will have all made decisions and definitely over stepped boundaries. Natalie and Jason are married but almost living separate lives. You can see how Natalie is losing herself in her marriage and she is struggling. Jason is gone during the week traveling because of work so that leaves Natalie on her own with the kids during the week.
Will is a divorce dad to four and a very plain house. His youngest daughter and Natalie’s daughter are best friends! So when they are together that brings Will and Natalie together more. They have instant chemistry and they both fight to ignore it. What happens when they can't fight it anymore?
Natalie is left to make lots of tough decisions. Jason finds out some truths and it sets his reality into perspective. That causes him to make some changes but what happens when the full truth is released?
September 15, 2025
The Wrong Kind of Perfect is an easy, flowing read…you could easily finish it in a day or two if you wanted! At its heart, it’s a story about love lost: the kind you thought would last forever and the painful disconnect that can happen with the person you built your life with. But it’s also about discovering a type of love you might not have known you needed.
As I read, I realized the story is just as much about a woman finding her independence and reigniting her passion for life as it is about romance. This was my first read exploring someone straying from their marriage, which I honestly thought might be difficult to follow. But with the multiple POVs, I was able to understand everyone’s perspective and see their stories unfold.
The only minor downside was that, with all the characters’ “fanciness,” it was a little harder to fully relate to them at times. I wish there was atleast one character with a semi “normal” life. It’s difficult for me to fall absolutely in love with a book if I can’t relate to the characters. Still, it was an overall it was a good and easy read. I did love the ending and wish I could already know who finds there happily ever after! I would definitely recommend it for fans of friends-to-lovers stories, family hardships, and learning to love again- especially learning to love yourself!
As I read, I realized the story is just as much about a woman finding her independence and reigniting her passion for life as it is about romance. This was my first read exploring someone straying from their marriage, which I honestly thought might be difficult to follow. But with the multiple POVs, I was able to understand everyone’s perspective and see their stories unfold.
The only minor downside was that, with all the characters’ “fanciness,” it was a little harder to fully relate to them at times. I wish there was atleast one character with a semi “normal” life. It’s difficult for me to fall absolutely in love with a book if I can’t relate to the characters. Still, it was an overall it was a good and easy read. I did love the ending and wish I could already know who finds there happily ever after! I would definitely recommend it for fans of friends-to-lovers stories, family hardships, and learning to love again- especially learning to love yourself!
October 2, 2025
The Wrong Kind of Perfect is a reflection on the life we have versus the life we dream of and the choices we make that lead us there. The triple POV provides insight into each of the character’s inner dilemmas and the lines they are willing to cross in an attempt to feel whole again. Although Natalie struggles with the decision to rekindle her love with Jason or seek new adventures with Will, she ultimately chooses herself. At the beginning of the book, Natalie had lost herself and her identity. However, the book ends on a hopeful note with Natalie reclaiming her identity and finding herself again. Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 8, 2025
I was lucky enough to read this book as an arc and it was such a well written debut!
This book had such a vibe that the author did such a great job of painting a picture in my head. It literally felt almost like I was watching RHOC. I mean- even The Quiet Woman! Haha . The main character Natalie was super likable and relatable. The kids were adorable. And I loved Will. Even though the topic of cheating plays a big part in the book, it wasn’t done in a gross way. The book made me think and still get swept up in the romance. I look forward to reading more from this author!
This book had such a vibe that the author did such a great job of painting a picture in my head. It literally felt almost like I was watching RHOC. I mean- even The Quiet Woman! Haha . The main character Natalie was super likable and relatable. The kids were adorable. And I loved Will. Even though the topic of cheating plays a big part in the book, it wasn’t done in a gross way. The book made me think and still get swept up in the romance. I look forward to reading more from this author!
November 12, 2025
This book is written for women at certain points in their lives who feel invisible. They have either already survived it or are currently living it.
If you don’t know what that means, this book isn’t for you. I will accept no criticism on how this book was written or the choices her characters made. It was raw and real and so relatable.
I’m immediately jumping into book 2.
If you don’t know what that means, this book isn’t for you. I will accept no criticism on how this book was written or the choices her characters made. It was raw and real and so relatable.
I’m immediately jumping into book 2.
April 17, 2026
3 ⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
I didn’t realize going in that this book revolved around infidelity—a trope I’m not usually drawn to—but it was handled with more depth than I expected. The couple’s long-standing unhappiness, combined with the fact that both partners crossed lines in different ways, made the situation feel more layered and, at times, understandable. Still, I found it uncomfortable how little the people around them pushed back against those choices and even encouraged it.
This is fast-paced and told through multiple POVs, which added meaningful insight into each character’s thoughts and motivations. Which made it easier to see where everyone was coming from, even when I didn’t agree with them.
Even so, the writing is engaging, and really captures the challenges of marriage, parenthood, and self-identity. At its core, the story explores personal growth and the struggle to rediscover yourself within a relationship. You can really feel the emotions from these characters. Especially Will, the way my heart ached for him.
The ending surprised me, and while it didn’t fully work for me, the writing kept me invested throughout, even when my feelings about it were mixed. I’m curious to see how this story continues.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Contemporary Romance
➳❥ Unhappily Married FMC
➳❥ Hot Divorced Dad
➳❥ Forbidden Love
➳❥ Multiple POVs
➳❥ Slow Burn
➳❥ Raw & Real
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“Sunsets make you feel small, but in a good way.”
“For a second, I just stared at her. Beautiful. Breathless. Mine, if only for this moment.”
“The need between us was a fire barely contained, and I was seconds from burning alive.”
“Her fingers brushed against mine, barely there, like she didn’t mean to, but she did. It was nothing. It was everything. “
“Seeing him made my heart catch, like my body remembered something my mind was trying to forget.”
September 16, 2025
This debut really hit me in a personal way. On the outside, Natalie has it all together. The perfect house, the hardworking husband, the image of the good mom and wife. The life she has looks secure and stable, yet it leaves her feeling empty and unseen.
I loved how the slow burn unfolded in the story. Since Natalie is still committed when she meets Will Parker, their connection builds quietly and carefully. It's undeniable, but they both know the risks and what they can't stand to lose. I liked how they didn’t just jump into each other. Instead, the pull grew over time until it was impossible to ignore.
One of my favorite parts was the writing itself. I devoured this book in one sitting. The triple POV made such a difference. Seeing into Natalie, Jason, and Will’s perspectives gave the story depth and made me feel for all three of them. None of them were villains. They were just flawed people trying to navigate life, love, and choices that don’t come easy.
The themes were strong. Marriage, motherhood, sisterhood, identity, longing. I especially felt for Natalie as she dealt with the neglect, the loneliness of being taken for granted, and having her career and passion dismissed as just a “hobby.” I also loved how Natalie and Jason didn’t just throw blame at each other. They acknowledged their mistakes and still wanted to put their kids first. The book also shows how the choices and actions we make affect not just us, but also the people we love.
And yes, the ending left me hanging. Just as I was fully immersed, it ended and I wanted book two immediately. I can’t wait to see Natalie rediscover her passion and what’s next for her journey.
I know that this book might not be for everyone, since it tackles issues that may not resonate with all readers. But these are also situations that happen in real life. If you like emotional slow-burn, forbidden romance, this debut is worth picking up.
I loved how the slow burn unfolded in the story. Since Natalie is still committed when she meets Will Parker, their connection builds quietly and carefully. It's undeniable, but they both know the risks and what they can't stand to lose. I liked how they didn’t just jump into each other. Instead, the pull grew over time until it was impossible to ignore.
One of my favorite parts was the writing itself. I devoured this book in one sitting. The triple POV made such a difference. Seeing into Natalie, Jason, and Will’s perspectives gave the story depth and made me feel for all three of them. None of them were villains. They were just flawed people trying to navigate life, love, and choices that don’t come easy.
The themes were strong. Marriage, motherhood, sisterhood, identity, longing. I especially felt for Natalie as she dealt with the neglect, the loneliness of being taken for granted, and having her career and passion dismissed as just a “hobby.” I also loved how Natalie and Jason didn’t just throw blame at each other. They acknowledged their mistakes and still wanted to put their kids first. The book also shows how the choices and actions we make affect not just us, but also the people we love.
And yes, the ending left me hanging. Just as I was fully immersed, it ended and I wanted book two immediately. I can’t wait to see Natalie rediscover her passion and what’s next for her journey.
I know that this book might not be for everyone, since it tackles issues that may not resonate with all readers. But these are also situations that happen in real life. If you like emotional slow-burn, forbidden romance, this debut is worth picking up.
March 9, 2026
I came across The Wrong Kind of Perfect while browsing Kindle Unlimited and the description immediately caught my attention. Stories about seemingly perfect lives hiding deeper struggles always intrigue me, and this one definitely delivered an emotional and thoughtful experience.
Natalie Bradford is the kind of character many readers will instantly recognize. On the outside, her life looks ideal, beautiful home, loving husband, two kids, and the kind of stability many people strive for. But the author does a great job peeling back those layers to show the quiet dissatisfaction and emotional exhaustion that can build over time. Natalie’s sense of losing herself in the routine of everyday life felt very real and relatable.
When Will Parker enters the picture, the story shifts into a slow, simmering tension. Their connection isn’t written as a flashy, impulsive romance but more as an emotional awakening for Natalie. The chemistry between them builds gradually, which makes the stakes feel even higher as Natalie begins questioning the life she thought she wanted.
What I appreciated most about this book is how it explores the complicated space between loyalty and personal fulfillment. It doesn’t treat relationships or choices as simple or black and white. Instead, it leans into the emotional messiness of wanting something different while knowing what you might lose.
The writing flows smoothly, and the pacing works well for a slow-burn story. Fans of authors like Abby Jimenez or Carley Fortune will probably enjoy the reflective tone and emotional depth here.
Overall, The Wrong Kind of Perfect is a thoughtful and engaging read about identity, longing, and the courage it sometimes takes to question the life you’ve built. If you enjoy emotionally layered women’s fiction with a romantic edge, it’s definitely worth checking out on Kindle Unlimited.
Natalie Bradford is the kind of character many readers will instantly recognize. On the outside, her life looks ideal, beautiful home, loving husband, two kids, and the kind of stability many people strive for. But the author does a great job peeling back those layers to show the quiet dissatisfaction and emotional exhaustion that can build over time. Natalie’s sense of losing herself in the routine of everyday life felt very real and relatable.
When Will Parker enters the picture, the story shifts into a slow, simmering tension. Their connection isn’t written as a flashy, impulsive romance but more as an emotional awakening for Natalie. The chemistry between them builds gradually, which makes the stakes feel even higher as Natalie begins questioning the life she thought she wanted.
What I appreciated most about this book is how it explores the complicated space between loyalty and personal fulfillment. It doesn’t treat relationships or choices as simple or black and white. Instead, it leans into the emotional messiness of wanting something different while knowing what you might lose.
The writing flows smoothly, and the pacing works well for a slow-burn story. Fans of authors like Abby Jimenez or Carley Fortune will probably enjoy the reflective tone and emotional depth here.
Overall, The Wrong Kind of Perfect is a thoughtful and engaging read about identity, longing, and the courage it sometimes takes to question the life you’ve built. If you enjoy emotionally layered women’s fiction with a romantic edge, it’s definitely worth checking out on Kindle Unlimited.
September 15, 2025
"I was stuck in a loop, craving something I couldn't have and hating myself for wanting it." Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity! Natalie(FMC) meets Will while picking up her kids from school. They are both instantly drawn to each other however, Will's daughter is bffs with Natalie's daughter. This results in Natalie feeling reluctant about her attraction to Will at first, not to mention she has a husband named Jason. The story unfolds through separate POVs from each
character(Natalie, Will and Jason). We see how Natalie and her relationship with Jason has gotten more distant due to his constant traveling for work. Jason seems to recognize their relationship is growing further apart but doesn't act on it until it's revealed what Natalie and Will have been up to while he's away. I enjoyed seeing how vulnerable and forgiving the characters were willing to be. At times it was hard to see each of them struggle the way they did. I loved reading the moments Natalie and Will spent together, plus the way he was able to spark her "hobby" again and indirectly connect her to opportunities. It was great seeing Natalie find herself in the aftermath of it all and get her happy ending after all.
character(Natalie, Will and Jason). We see how Natalie and her relationship with Jason has gotten more distant due to his constant traveling for work. Jason seems to recognize their relationship is growing further apart but doesn't act on it until it's revealed what Natalie and Will have been up to while he's away. I enjoyed seeing how vulnerable and forgiving the characters were willing to be. At times it was hard to see each of them struggle the way they did. I loved reading the moments Natalie and Will spent together, plus the way he was able to spark her "hobby" again and indirectly connect her to opportunities. It was great seeing Natalie find herself in the aftermath of it all and get her happy ending after all.
October 6, 2025
I truly loved how Jillian gave us such a deep and intimate glimpse into each character’s mindset by exploring their unique perspectives. It made the story feel layered and alive, allowing you to really connect with the characters on an emotional level. In my opinion it’s not your typical romance - it was so much more. The story felt raw, vulnerable, and profoundly moving at times, capturing the messy, beautiful complexity of real life and love.
Jillian’s portrayal of Natalie, the main character, as a stay-at-home mother was both powerful and relatable. She captures with honesty and tenderness the feeling of losing pieces of yourself in motherhood, and how isolating the journey can be—even when surrounded by a loving partner and supportive friends. That quiet loneliness, combined with the struggle to hold onto your identity, was written in a way that felt achingly real.
I believe this book will resonate with so many people, especially those who have experienced the silent sacrifices of parenthood or the search for self amid love and responsibility. It’s a story that lingers with you, not just because of the romance, but because of the truths it tells about life, vulnerability, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Jillian’s portrayal of Natalie, the main character, as a stay-at-home mother was both powerful and relatable. She captures with honesty and tenderness the feeling of losing pieces of yourself in motherhood, and how isolating the journey can be—even when surrounded by a loving partner and supportive friends. That quiet loneliness, combined with the struggle to hold onto your identity, was written in a way that felt achingly real.
I believe this book will resonate with so many people, especially those who have experienced the silent sacrifices of parenthood or the search for self amid love and responsibility. It’s a story that lingers with you, not just because of the romance, but because of the truths it tells about life, vulnerability, and the resilience of the human spirit.
February 8, 2026
Feels Wrong and Right at the same time!
Forbidden Romance
MC- in their 40s
Slow burn 🔥
Three POV’s
Family Drama
Divorced Single dad
Natalie is a married mother of two. She seems to have everything you could want. A beautiful home, two wonderful children , and a handsome husband. Despite all she has she feels incomplete and lonely. Her marriage is not what it used to be. Her husband is often traveling for work. She finds herself questioning her situation.
At her children school she meets Will.
Will is a hot newly divorced single father settling into his new life. The chemistry is palpable from the start. Natalie feels the pull but he is off limits.
Why is it that she can’t stop thinking of him regardless of how wrong it is. why does Will feel so right!
I really enjoyed this book. It’s a slow burn 🔥 forbidden romance. It does discuss some sensitive topics so refer to the trigger warnings. I enjoyed it being based in Southern California. I enjoyed Nat’s and Wills dynamics. Jason POV was nice to experience it brought a different perspective into the mix. Overall I enjoyed this book so much I read it in two days. I’m off to get the next book started. I totally recommend checking this one out!!
Forbidden Romance
MC- in their 40s
Slow burn 🔥
Three POV’s
Family Drama
Divorced Single dad
Natalie is a married mother of two. She seems to have everything you could want. A beautiful home, two wonderful children , and a handsome husband. Despite all she has she feels incomplete and lonely. Her marriage is not what it used to be. Her husband is often traveling for work. She finds herself questioning her situation.
At her children school she meets Will.
Will is a hot newly divorced single father settling into his new life. The chemistry is palpable from the start. Natalie feels the pull but he is off limits.
Why is it that she can’t stop thinking of him regardless of how wrong it is. why does Will feel so right!
I really enjoyed this book. It’s a slow burn 🔥 forbidden romance. It does discuss some sensitive topics so refer to the trigger warnings. I enjoyed it being based in Southern California. I enjoyed Nat’s and Wills dynamics. Jason POV was nice to experience it brought a different perspective into the mix. Overall I enjoyed this book so much I read it in two days. I’m off to get the next book started. I totally recommend checking this one out!!
May 2, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
First off, thank you Jillian Marie for the gifted copy!
I also want to preface this by saying Jillian’s team warned me that this book would “cross infidelity lines”. So I was aware that there would be some sort of cheating in the plot. What I was not expecting was that the entirety of the book was centered around every single character contributing to the cheating (besides the minors, of course).
What I did love:
• Jillian Marie has a fantastic way of describing a setting and scene to where I could totally visualize it
• The tension between Will and Natalie
• The fast paced plot
• The struggles with parenting and also the relatable marital issues
What I didn’t love:
By the 60% mark, I was pretty flabbergasted by the main characters decisions. Will for pressuring Natalie to be with him when he knew good and well that she was married. Natalie for cheating on her husband because she had some suspicion he was cheating on her. And instead of talking to him about it, she just kept cheating. And Jason for well… everything. lol
Overall, I like Jillian Marie’s writing and the characters enough to continue onto book 2!
First off, thank you Jillian Marie for the gifted copy!
I also want to preface this by saying Jillian’s team warned me that this book would “cross infidelity lines”. So I was aware that there would be some sort of cheating in the plot. What I was not expecting was that the entirety of the book was centered around every single character contributing to the cheating (besides the minors, of course).
What I did love:
• Jillian Marie has a fantastic way of describing a setting and scene to where I could totally visualize it
• The tension between Will and Natalie
• The fast paced plot
• The struggles with parenting and also the relatable marital issues
What I didn’t love:
By the 60% mark, I was pretty flabbergasted by the main characters decisions. Will for pressuring Natalie to be with him when he knew good and well that she was married. Natalie for cheating on her husband because she had some suspicion he was cheating on her. And instead of talking to him about it, she just kept cheating. And Jason for well… everything. lol
Overall, I like Jillian Marie’s writing and the characters enough to continue onto book 2!
February 3, 2026
I feel like this book would’ve been so much better if only Jason and Natalie were narrators. I could’ve used more detail about the dissolution of their marriage. Also did not need the insta-love with Will. I am unsure what they even loved about each other? The plot could’ve been stronger if Will was not a POV, and if his story was about lust not love. The love part just felt insanely rushed and this man was ready to have a 6 kid household fresh after his own divorce like nothing. Didn’t buy into Natalie and Will. The “love” should’ve been saved for book 2, and the focus here could’ve been stronger between Jason and Natalie and how infidelity caused their divorce. You’re telling me this rich couple with children didn’t try therapy? It wasn’t even mentioned. Just seemed like 0 effort was put into their marriage- even though dialogue insisted they wanted to try. They tried for maybe a chapter?
I did however appreciate the ending and her focusing on being independent rather than instantly moving on to Will.
I did however appreciate the ending and her focusing on being independent rather than instantly moving on to Will.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2026
This book was like a train wreck I couldn’t look away from. A multi POV with Natalie, her husband Jason, and…Will. Messy. It was a roller coaster of emotions trying to understand her perspective and being lost as a mom and as a wife and feeling invisible in her marriage while her husband is away from home 85% of the time. We get Jasons POV and his internal struggles with an attraction to a co-worker and trying to decide how to manage the impulses. And then Will. A dad who meets Natalie at school pick up, with daughters who become besties. Their lives get very intertwined and so many boundaries crossed.
This is the second book in a row I’ve read with lines of infidelity being crossed and they were both done so well. The author makes you feel what the characters feel and just get so invested in the storyline. Though there were some things else from side characters especially that really annoyed me, they felt relevant to the story and I read this book way too quickly because of the character drama that sucked me in.
This is the second book in a row I’ve read with lines of infidelity being crossed and they were both done so well. The author makes you feel what the characters feel and just get so invested in the storyline. Though there were some things else from side characters especially that really annoyed me, they felt relevant to the story and I read this book way too quickly because of the character drama that sucked me in.
March 3, 2026
ARC Review: The Wrong Kind of Perfect
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
WOW—what an emotional ride. This story felt painfully real in a way that just sinks under your skin. Natalie’s unraveling, the strain in her marriage, and the pull toward something she knows she shouldn’t want—it all felt authentic and raw. You don’t just read her journey, you feel it.
The emotional turmoil between Natalie, Jason, and Will is palpable. No one is flat or easy to judge, which made the story even more compelling. And Will? Completely swoon-worthy in that complicated, off-limits way that just hits.
If you love forbidden romance (one of my favorite tropes too), this one delivers. The chemistry is undeniable, the slow burn is delicious, and the spice is well-written without overpowering the emotional depth.
This is one of those stories about rediscovery and choosing yourself that stays with you after the last page. Messy, heartfelt, and beautifully imperfect.
Thank you to @booksbyjillianmarie for sending me an ARC to review!
#jillianmarie #thewrongkindofperfect #booksta
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
WOW—what an emotional ride. This story felt painfully real in a way that just sinks under your skin. Natalie’s unraveling, the strain in her marriage, and the pull toward something she knows she shouldn’t want—it all felt authentic and raw. You don’t just read her journey, you feel it.
The emotional turmoil between Natalie, Jason, and Will is palpable. No one is flat or easy to judge, which made the story even more compelling. And Will? Completely swoon-worthy in that complicated, off-limits way that just hits.
If you love forbidden romance (one of my favorite tropes too), this one delivers. The chemistry is undeniable, the slow burn is delicious, and the spice is well-written without overpowering the emotional depth.
This is one of those stories about rediscovery and choosing yourself that stays with you after the last page. Messy, heartfelt, and beautifully imperfect.
Thank you to @booksbyjillianmarie for sending me an ARC to review!
#jillianmarie #thewrongkindofperfect #booksta
March 31, 2026
What happens when relationships end or are on the rocks? If children are involved it can get a whole lot more complicated. Is there a right way of doing things? This book describes what happens to Natalie when her marriage may be disintegrating & how she navigates the minefield of complicated emotions whilst trying to continue with normal life so the kids’ lives aren’t disrupted. It gets complicated when she meets Will, a divorced dad of 4 children, & there’s a powerful attraction between them. Natalie loved her kids & wanted the best for them, but did this have to be at the cost of what was best for her? This is so well written, I really felt the emotions as Natalie felt pulled one way & the other as she tried to work out what she wanted for herself, & for the children, always searching for the perfect answer. The emotions were painfully real & honest, & believable. When I reached the end of the book, their story felt unfinished, so I was delighted to find there is a second book about Natalie & Will as they worked things out individually & together.
October 25, 2025
I almost shelved this book the moment I realized it dealt with infidelity, a trope I usually stay far away from. But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a chance to understand what truly happens when someone crosses that line. I've always believed that nothing can ever justify cheating and I still stand by that but this story gave me a new perspective on why people make the choices they do.
The author's writing genuinely surprised me. The multiple POVs were beautifully handled, capturing each character's vulnerability and the emotional distance that builds over time. She explores, with so much depth and realism, how relationships evolve once the honeymoon phase fades how love changes, priorities shift, and how the arrival of kids can transform everything-
The storytelling was so immersive that someone who hates the infidelity trope (me ) ended up finishing it in one sitting. That says a lot about how compelling and emotionally layered the writing truly is.
The author's writing genuinely surprised me. The multiple POVs were beautifully handled, capturing each character's vulnerability and the emotional distance that builds over time. She explores, with so much depth and realism, how relationships evolve once the honeymoon phase fades how love changes, priorities shift, and how the arrival of kids can transform everything-
The storytelling was so immersive that someone who hates the infidelity trope (me ) ended up finishing it in one sitting. That says a lot about how compelling and emotionally layered the writing truly is.
September 16, 2025
This is her debut novel! I am already anxiously awaiting the next book due out in November. Thank you Jillian for having me in your arc/street team!
This book is told from the perspective of the 3 main characters. Natalie, Will and Jason.
Natalie is married to Jason. The are struggling to connect with each other. Both have had thoughts of other people outside their marriage.
Natalie and Will meet at the school pick up. Their daughters are best friends! Will feels the connection instantly. Natalie isn’t sure. She loves her husband. But is really certain that he has been cheating on her with Shannon from his workplace. Jason has had thoughts of Shannon and dinner dates that are more than business.
Natalie takes a job helping Will with his house decor. Do they cross the line? Does Jason cross the line? Can their marriage survive! You must read to find out!!
This book is told from the perspective of the 3 main characters. Natalie, Will and Jason.
Natalie is married to Jason. The are struggling to connect with each other. Both have had thoughts of other people outside their marriage.
Natalie and Will meet at the school pick up. Their daughters are best friends! Will feels the connection instantly. Natalie isn’t sure. She loves her husband. But is really certain that he has been cheating on her with Shannon from his workplace. Jason has had thoughts of Shannon and dinner dates that are more than business.
Natalie takes a job helping Will with his house decor. Do they cross the line? Does Jason cross the line? Can their marriage survive! You must read to find out!!
October 20, 2025
I didn’t realize going in that this book involved a cheating trope, which is not my thing, but the way it was handled here wasn’t so bad. The couple had clearly been unhappy for a while, and since both of them strayed in some way, it felt a little more understandable.
That said, I didn’t love how the people around them didn’t discourage the cheating, it almost felt like everyone just accepted it, which made me a bit uncomfortable. Still, the story itself was really enjoyable and easy to read.
I liked that it was told from a triple POV, it gave great insight into each character’s mindset and made it easier to understand and even forgive their choices. The characters were all likeable in their own ways, but I have to say, Natalie and Will just fit better together.
It ended on a cliffhanger, and now I can’t wait to find out what happens in the second book!
That said, I didn’t love how the people around them didn’t discourage the cheating, it almost felt like everyone just accepted it, which made me a bit uncomfortable. Still, the story itself was really enjoyable and easy to read.
I liked that it was told from a triple POV, it gave great insight into each character’s mindset and made it easier to understand and even forgive their choices. The characters were all likeable in their own ways, but I have to say, Natalie and Will just fit better together.
It ended on a cliffhanger, and now I can’t wait to find out what happens in the second book!
November 29, 2025
This book fell right in the middle of the road. The writing style is not bad at all, but I think I did not care for the story itself. Firstly, how is it everyone in these peoples lives are 100% supportive of having an affair? Where is the one person that is like, "you're married, maybe get a divorce first?" Secondly, I couldn't even sympathize with the feelings because I'm not even sure how they fell in love. It feels like there is a lot of depth missing in the characters and how their story is developing.
There is nothing bad about this book at all, but I just wish there was something deeper and that excuses weren't completely rationalized by everyone around on why it's ok to have an affair. Though it is nice to see people that are so supported and not judged for mistakes made.
There is nothing bad about this book at all, but I just wish there was something deeper and that excuses weren't completely rationalized by everyone around on why it's ok to have an affair. Though it is nice to see people that are so supported and not judged for mistakes made.
September 18, 2025
I’ll admit I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to read this book due to the element of cheating but it was so beautifully written. Natalie and Jason had grown distant in their marriage and temptations arose on both sides. It’s like they were just going through the motions and didn’t realize how they were just drifting along. It made me evaluate my own marriage even though we don’t have those issues.
Will is a better fit for Natalie and her best friend and sister saw it. I loved how supportive they were of her and how they just wanted her to be happy. I really enjoyed the story and look forward to finding out what happens next in book 2!
Will is a better fit for Natalie and her best friend and sister saw it. I loved how supportive they were of her and how they just wanted her to be happy. I really enjoyed the story and look forward to finding out what happens next in book 2!
October 16, 2025
Thank you to Jillian Marie and Booked With The Emily’s for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
There’s really only one word for this book…phenomenal. It’s such a dose of reality, something that makes you feel real emotion and relate to the characters while you’re reading. Natalie was so relatable for me that it felt it to my core. It was almost scary. I really enjoyed watching her navigate both relationships, and how the author gave us perspectives from everyone involved. The writing style here was just perfect for me, assuring that I will absolutely be picking up more books by this author. Overall, this was a really deep and touching read for me and I absolutely recommend it!
There’s really only one word for this book…phenomenal. It’s such a dose of reality, something that makes you feel real emotion and relate to the characters while you’re reading. Natalie was so relatable for me that it felt it to my core. It was almost scary. I really enjoyed watching her navigate both relationships, and how the author gave us perspectives from everyone involved. The writing style here was just perfect for me, assuring that I will absolutely be picking up more books by this author. Overall, this was a really deep and touching read for me and I absolutely recommend it!
December 17, 2025
Thanks for this complementary story, Happily Booked! I got to meet more of Jillian Marie's characters and was able to fall in love with yet another story ♥
TWKoP explores flawed expectations and genuine connection. Emotional, engaging, and character-driven, this book highlights that neither love nor us have to be perfect to be meaningful, that we are worthy fighting for and that we are as important as anything else.
Natalie was loosing herself with the weight of the 'perfect family' that lay on her shoulders when Will appears in her life... He’s everything she’s not supposed to want — gorgeous, magnetic, and completely off-limits. But their connection is undeniable.
TWKoP explores flawed expectations and genuine connection. Emotional, engaging, and character-driven, this book highlights that neither love nor us have to be perfect to be meaningful, that we are worthy fighting for and that we are as important as anything else.
Natalie was loosing herself with the weight of the 'perfect family' that lay on her shoulders when Will appears in her life... He’s everything she’s not supposed to want — gorgeous, magnetic, and completely off-limits. But their connection is undeniable.
November 13, 2025
The Wrong Kind of Perfect is the right kind of debut!
Natalie’s story portrayed the messy complexities of life and love. There was no hero. There was no villain. There was just raw reality. Of trudging through the trenches, getting to a crossroad and having to decide - stick with the status quo or search for your identity. Not a label to or for others. You. Your OWN label.
The Wrong Kind of Perfect wasn’t just a slow burn romance with a second chance with someone, it was also Natalie to herself.
Beautiful. Personal. Intimate.
Natalie’s story portrayed the messy complexities of life and love. There was no hero. There was no villain. There was just raw reality. Of trudging through the trenches, getting to a crossroad and having to decide - stick with the status quo or search for your identity. Not a label to or for others. You. Your OWN label.
The Wrong Kind of Perfect wasn’t just a slow burn romance with a second chance with someone, it was also Natalie to herself.
Beautiful. Personal. Intimate.
October 8, 2025
4⭐️
ARC Review!!
Thank you Love Story Pr and Jillian Marie for giving me the opportunity to receive this eARC!
Omg I was absolutely hooked with this one!!! This unhappily married woman was a trope I have never read before, which I think is why I was invested in this story. It made it very different from the romances I always read. I think the characters were pretty relatable and likable. Anddd I was so obsessed with their relationship… even though I know I really shouldn't have been.
ARC Review!!
Thank you Love Story Pr and Jillian Marie for giving me the opportunity to receive this eARC!
Omg I was absolutely hooked with this one!!! This unhappily married woman was a trope I have never read before, which I think is why I was invested in this story. It made it very different from the romances I always read. I think the characters were pretty relatable and likable. Anddd I was so obsessed with their relationship… even though I know I really shouldn't have been.
October 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was a beautifully written story about the complexities of love, marriage, motherhood, identity, and real life issues. This story has three POVs which I felt was done well. I felt connected to the characters and was rooting for Natalie. I can’t wait to read book 2 to continue her story. Great debut.
Thanks to Booked with the Emilys and the author for the gifted advanced reader copy of this book.
Thanks to Booked with the Emilys and the author for the gifted advanced reader copy of this book.
November 11, 2025
Wow ! I was not expecting to be so hooked by this book. The writing is so good so real I just couldn't put it down for long. I think the multiple pov really helped in telling the story and again the writing was so well done. Each pov really added layers and understanding to story. You get a peek into why things like this can happen. Loved the characters and how things progressed slowly over time .
Thank you to the author for a copy all thoughts are my own.
Thank you to the author for a copy all thoughts are my own.
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