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How the Story Goes
In this heartwarming, bookish debut, a young widower of a famous children’s fantasy author teams up with a down-on-her-luck MFA dropout to write the final book in his late wife’s series ... and find their own perfect ending along the way.
Whit Longacre has a monumental task and a looming deadline. After his wife, Helen, died of cancer, she left him with their grieving eight-year-old daughter and a surprise in her the small task of writing the final book in her mega-popular children’s fantasy series for her legions of waiting fans.
Whit is the author of moderately successful (but well-received!) literary mysteries. He doesn’t have the first idea of how to complete Helen’s beloved series, and his enigmatic wife seems to have left no clues behind on how the story is supposed to end. Writer’s block is one thing, but to fail in fulfilling his wife’s last wish? Whit is guilt-ridden and dodging calls in the school pick-up line from Helen’s publisher and agent as the deadline fast approaches.
Then Whit meets Merritt Pryor, who works at the local bookstore in their small New England town. Merritt has moved back home after a disastrous affair led to her dropping out of her prestigious MFA program. When Whit realizes that Merritt is a superfan of the Greenwood Castle series, they come up with a plan to tackle the book together. For the first time in years, Merritt finds herself falling back in love with writing … and perhaps with the coauthor offering her the opportunity of a lifetime.
But when Whit uncovers a buried secret about Helen’s final wishes, he questions everything about what he and Merritt have created together, endangering the tender, electrifying partnership that has transformed their lives.
Can Whit and Merritt come up with an ending that feels right … for both a beloved series and for their battered hearts?
Whit Longacre has a monumental task and a looming deadline. After his wife, Helen, died of cancer, she left him with their grieving eight-year-old daughter and a surprise in her the small task of writing the final book in her mega-popular children’s fantasy series for her legions of waiting fans.
Whit is the author of moderately successful (but well-received!) literary mysteries. He doesn’t have the first idea of how to complete Helen’s beloved series, and his enigmatic wife seems to have left no clues behind on how the story is supposed to end. Writer’s block is one thing, but to fail in fulfilling his wife’s last wish? Whit is guilt-ridden and dodging calls in the school pick-up line from Helen’s publisher and agent as the deadline fast approaches.
Then Whit meets Merritt Pryor, who works at the local bookstore in their small New England town. Merritt has moved back home after a disastrous affair led to her dropping out of her prestigious MFA program. When Whit realizes that Merritt is a superfan of the Greenwood Castle series, they come up with a plan to tackle the book together. For the first time in years, Merritt finds herself falling back in love with writing … and perhaps with the coauthor offering her the opportunity of a lifetime.
But when Whit uncovers a buried secret about Helen’s final wishes, he questions everything about what he and Merritt have created together, endangering the tender, electrifying partnership that has transformed their lives.
Can Whit and Merritt come up with an ending that feels right … for both a beloved series and for their battered hearts?
368 pages, Hardcover
First published May 5, 2026
About the author
Andrew Forrester
1 book89 followersAndrew Forrester is a writer and former English teacher whose work has appeared in McSweeney's and Parents Magazine. He holds a PhD in 19th-century British literature and lives in Austin, Texas with his family. How the Story Goes is his first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
August 22, 2025
It's very good!
May 11, 2026
3.7 Stars
One Liner: A pretty good debut
Whit Longacre is tasked with completing the final book of the popular children’s fantasy series authored by his dead wife. Grieving her loss to cancer and caring for their eight-year-old daughter is hard enough without this extra pressure. Whit is a writer himself, but his talent lies in mysteries.
One day, he meets Merritt Pryor, who works at a bookstore after dropping out of her MFA program and is a great fan of the series he needs to complete. Hiring her to co-write the book feels like a good decision. As Whit and Merritt find a fresh start, they have to deal with the secrets they unearth in the process.
The story comes in Whit and Merritt’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts
This is my second book this year with a similar theme. While it is very different from How to Write a Love Story, there is a clear common element: losing a loved one and having to finish their book by the deadline.
The writing is pretty good, even if it tends to get into descriptions. While this initially helps visualize the setting, it later slows the narration. There’s some dry humor, which worked for me.
The dual POVs work well to give us a clear idea of both characters, their thoughts, and their backstories. Their reactions feel realistic enough most of the time.
Given the premise, grief is a recurring theme, and I think it has been handled beautifully. It doesn’t get too overwhelming, nor does it feel surface-level. A couple of more scenes with the kid would have been great.
The writing part is also pretty good. It is important to the plot and show readers the struggle of trying to be creative when the mind and body are exhausted.
The FMC’s initial insecurities and struggle to regain her confidence as a writer after a crappy relationship come out well. There is no overnight change, but a gradual progress.
That said, the pacing is really off. The first 2/3rds is slow, but the last quarter has much drama happening back to back. This didn’t help. It should have started a little earlier to give breathing space for the emotions and developments to settle.
The grand (desperate) gestures are okay, but I’m not happy with developments. The person who makes the mess should be the one to fix it. I thought it would go that way and was disappointed when it didn’t.
The side characters, though not that developed, stand out with distinct personalities. I could have done without names starting with the same letters (Whit & Willa, Evie & Edouard, Annie & Albie), as it gets confusing at times.
The epilogue is so tiny; it would be a crime to call it one. Why not add a few more paragraphs to provide more details?
But… I have to ask. The BIL is specifically a French Canadian, but the editor is just a South Asian? Double standards much, North Americans?
To summarize, How the Story Goes is a good debut that focuses on what it wants to say without cramming too many themes. The uneven pacing could have been handled with a little more editing. It was an enjoyable read despite the issues. I will read more by the author.
Thank you, NetGalley and Avon, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #HowTheStoryGoes
One Liner: A pretty good debut
Whit Longacre is tasked with completing the final book of the popular children’s fantasy series authored by his dead wife. Grieving her loss to cancer and caring for their eight-year-old daughter is hard enough without this extra pressure. Whit is a writer himself, but his talent lies in mysteries.
One day, he meets Merritt Pryor, who works at a bookstore after dropping out of her MFA program and is a great fan of the series he needs to complete. Hiring her to co-write the book feels like a good decision. As Whit and Merritt find a fresh start, they have to deal with the secrets they unearth in the process.
The story comes in Whit and Merritt’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts
This is my second book this year with a similar theme. While it is very different from How to Write a Love Story, there is a clear common element: losing a loved one and having to finish their book by the deadline.
The writing is pretty good, even if it tends to get into descriptions. While this initially helps visualize the setting, it later slows the narration. There’s some dry humor, which worked for me.
The dual POVs work well to give us a clear idea of both characters, their thoughts, and their backstories. Their reactions feel realistic enough most of the time.
Given the premise, grief is a recurring theme, and I think it has been handled beautifully. It doesn’t get too overwhelming, nor does it feel surface-level. A couple of more scenes with the kid would have been great.
The writing part is also pretty good. It is important to the plot and show readers the struggle of trying to be creative when the mind and body are exhausted.
The FMC’s initial insecurities and struggle to regain her confidence as a writer after a crappy relationship come out well. There is no overnight change, but a gradual progress.
That said, the pacing is really off. The first 2/3rds is slow, but the last quarter has much drama happening back to back. This didn’t help. It should have started a little earlier to give breathing space for the emotions and developments to settle.
The grand (desperate) gestures are okay, but I’m not happy with developments. The person who makes the mess should be the one to fix it. I thought it would go that way and was disappointed when it didn’t.
The side characters, though not that developed, stand out with distinct personalities. I could have done without names starting with the same letters (Whit & Willa, Evie & Edouard, Annie & Albie), as it gets confusing at times.
The epilogue is so tiny; it would be a crime to call it one. Why not add a few more paragraphs to provide more details?
But… I have to ask. The BIL is specifically a French Canadian, but the editor is just a South Asian? Double standards much, North Americans?
To summarize, How the Story Goes is a good debut that focuses on what it wants to say without cramming too many themes. The uneven pacing could have been handled with a little more editing. It was an enjoyable read despite the issues. I will read more by the author.
Thank you, NetGalley and Avon, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #HowTheStoryGoes
Did Not Finish
May 3, 2026dnf @ 27%
the pacing is very slow, i don’t feel connected to the characters, and im just overall so bored😔
I really wanted to love this one!! but i also dont want to force myself to read a book im not enjoying
thank you avon & andrew forrester for the arc! out 5/5
the pacing is very slow, i don’t feel connected to the characters, and im just overall so bored😔
I really wanted to love this one!! but i also dont want to force myself to read a book im not enjoying
thank you avon & andrew forrester for the arc! out 5/5
Read
May 7, 2026I got this one on audio and loved the concept of it. I did eventually DNF this book at about 160 pages. There were a myriad of issues. One: I swapped to a physical copy because the audio narrators were not good. The male narrator especially read it like it was a quirky romcom and it drove me absolutely nuts. Two: This book was written by a man....and unfortunately you can tell. I have read plenty of romances written by men, that's not the problem. But every single memory of his wife was about her doing something for him. Or for the kid. Or about her being wealthy. Not about how she made him feel. Their romance. Nothing. Even his lack of knowledge of his wife's work pissed me off. This character showed a total lack of respect for her for the 160 pages I read. And he just came off as the idiot dad who can't do anything. Three: When someone is a single parent, I want the child to be a big part of that story. I think we saw the daughter for all of 4 pages in 160 pages making me not fully understand why being a single parent is so hard considering she seems to be everywhere but at his house. Four: Our FMC was falling into the EXACT same pattern she had in the past that got her tangled up with an old professor. And maybe that's a big part of the story later on. Sure, I can't judge that part. But ultimately I found myself hating both of them.
January 1, 2026
I LOVED this, and I am a picky romance reader!
The characters make this story: the FMC and MMC, of course, but the many lovable and endearing side characters add so much to the narrative, too. I loved the fresh and unique storyline, the character growth, the smart writing, the literary allusions, the rich setting details — all of it!
I am very excited for readers to meet Whit and Merritt in 2026, and I can’t wait for whatever is next from Andrew Forrester.
Many thanks to the author and Avon for my early copy. These thoughts are purely mine!
The characters make this story: the FMC and MMC, of course, but the many lovable and endearing side characters add so much to the narrative, too. I loved the fresh and unique storyline, the character growth, the smart writing, the literary allusions, the rich setting details — all of it!
I am very excited for readers to meet Whit and Merritt in 2026, and I can’t wait for whatever is next from Andrew Forrester.
Many thanks to the author and Avon for my early copy. These thoughts are purely mine!
April 30, 2026
HOW THE STORY GOES is a sweet story for book lovers!
Whit Longacre’s late wife left him with the task of writing the final book in her popular children’s fantasy series—a genre that is out of his wheelhouse as a mystery writer.
Enter Merritt Pryor, local bookseller and aspiring author. She also happens to be a huge fan of the series Whit needs to finish.
I loved the character development and backstory. It immediately peaked my interest and pulled me into the story.
I had so much fun spending time with these characters. This book about books was just what I needed!
I loved how Whit and Merritt hyped each other up about their writing skills. They challenged each other while also making space for what they were each going through in their personal lives.
The vivid descriptions of Whelk Harbor made me want to visit this fictional town.
Whit Longacre’s late wife left him with the task of writing the final book in her popular children’s fantasy series—a genre that is out of his wheelhouse as a mystery writer.
Enter Merritt Pryor, local bookseller and aspiring author. She also happens to be a huge fan of the series Whit needs to finish.
I loved the character development and backstory. It immediately peaked my interest and pulled me into the story.
I had so much fun spending time with these characters. This book about books was just what I needed!
I loved how Whit and Merritt hyped each other up about their writing skills. They challenged each other while also making space for what they were each going through in their personal lives.
The vivid descriptions of Whelk Harbor made me want to visit this fictional town.
August 11, 2025
HYPED‼️
January 14, 2026
Merritt and Whit, you have my little romcom-loving heart 💛 This story has everything: the sweetest/most refreshing characters, stunning writing, clever dialogue, and so much heart on every page
Such a wonderful read. Congrats on the amazing debut, Andrew Forrester! Thank you for the early copy.
Such a wonderful read. Congrats on the amazing debut, Andrew Forrester! Thank you for the early copy.
May 3, 2026
Oh, How the Story Goes, how I loved you! It's such a sweet and emotional read. One that opens itself to vulnerability as it navigates grief and one that heartens itself with the promise of a life still worth loving and dreaming. It's a book provides comfort and hope and I embraced it readily and wholly from beginning to ending.
This is the story of widower, father and author Whit whose late wife tasked him with finishing her popular children's fantasy series. A task that becomes insurmountable until a chance encounter with Merritt, a bookseller and once hopeful author herself, who happens to love the very series Whit needs to finish. Together they collaborate to finish the beloved series. Merritt's fresh perspective not only benefits the writing at hand, but the very soul of the overwhelmed Whit.
I simply loved this work, so much. I just wanted to hug Whit and Merritt over and over again. To give them both comfort and protection from their troubles. Whit is still navigating grief but has become overwhelmed with single fatherhood and a massive writer's block. Merritt is trying to find her now lost love for writing after a toxic relationship rips away her confidence in self. Both are downtrodden but striving to find their footing, to forge ahead. They make their steps but it's once they come together they find their stride. Witnessing them come together felt like puzzle pieces falling into their rightful places.
Merritt and Whit are absolutely the heart of this work, but something I ended up appreciating is what drives the work isn't their romance, it's their partnership as a whole. Which absolutely includes the slow burn love story, but it's built from what comes first. A partnership that reinvigorates and a friendship that confides. Trust is earned, secrets shared, grief understood, truths reveals, and within all of it, all those blossoming flowers, that seedling of love that sprouts alongside it all. Not overtaking it, but simply finding its place amongst the blooms. What Whit and Merritt create together is what it's all about. It's layer about layer, not just one thing. Not just romance, into just camaraderie, it's all of it at once.
And all of it is developed in a way that still allows Whit to grieve the loss of his wife Helen. Helen remains an important figure. Not just because she's the author whose work Whit and Merritt are attempting to conclude, but because she was a mother and wife and a human being whose family still misses her. And the narrative balances room for that grief along the new growth of life and love beside it. Never overshadowing but never being swept away either. I can't express enough how much I appreciated that. It truly served to strengthened the narrative as a whole.
A brilliant, massively soulful read I just want to hug to my heart forever.
Thank you Avon and NetGalley for this complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
This is the story of widower, father and author Whit whose late wife tasked him with finishing her popular children's fantasy series. A task that becomes insurmountable until a chance encounter with Merritt, a bookseller and once hopeful author herself, who happens to love the very series Whit needs to finish. Together they collaborate to finish the beloved series. Merritt's fresh perspective not only benefits the writing at hand, but the very soul of the overwhelmed Whit.
I simply loved this work, so much. I just wanted to hug Whit and Merritt over and over again. To give them both comfort and protection from their troubles. Whit is still navigating grief but has become overwhelmed with single fatherhood and a massive writer's block. Merritt is trying to find her now lost love for writing after a toxic relationship rips away her confidence in self. Both are downtrodden but striving to find their footing, to forge ahead. They make their steps but it's once they come together they find their stride. Witnessing them come together felt like puzzle pieces falling into their rightful places.
Merritt and Whit are absolutely the heart of this work, but something I ended up appreciating is what drives the work isn't their romance, it's their partnership as a whole. Which absolutely includes the slow burn love story, but it's built from what comes first. A partnership that reinvigorates and a friendship that confides. Trust is earned, secrets shared, grief understood, truths reveals, and within all of it, all those blossoming flowers, that seedling of love that sprouts alongside it all. Not overtaking it, but simply finding its place amongst the blooms. What Whit and Merritt create together is what it's all about. It's layer about layer, not just one thing. Not just romance, into just camaraderie, it's all of it at once.
And all of it is developed in a way that still allows Whit to grieve the loss of his wife Helen. Helen remains an important figure. Not just because she's the author whose work Whit and Merritt are attempting to conclude, but because she was a mother and wife and a human being whose family still misses her. And the narrative balances room for that grief along the new growth of life and love beside it. Never overshadowing but never being swept away either. I can't express enough how much I appreciated that. It truly served to strengthened the narrative as a whole.
A brilliant, massively soulful read I just want to hug to my heart forever.
Thank you Avon and NetGalley for this complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
May 10, 2026
(4.5 stars) Thank you, @avonbooks for the gifted print and audiobook copies of this truly special debut!
Helen Longacre died of cancer last year, leaving behind her husband Whit, their eight-year-old daughter, and a global fandom awaiting the final book in her wildly popular children's fantasy series, Greenwood Castle. In her will, Helen specifically stated that Whit — a mystery author — be the one to finish the final book. For a year, Whit has spiraled: grieving his wife, learning to navigate life as a single parent, and carrying the weight of this monumental request (especially since he has no idea how Helen intended to end the series). Then Whit meets Merritt Pryor — MFA drop-out, local indie bookseller, and Greenwood Castle superfan. Together, they decide to tackle the book. The task unexpectedly reignites Merritt's love of writing and Whit's passion for life, and along the way, they form a deeply important friendship while trying to resist complicated romantic feelings neither expected.
What a debut! This is one of those books that feels like a warm hug to your soul. The characters are messy, tender, complicated, and trying their best. The families are complex, but they love each other so deeply. Grief and the complexities of moving on are handled with such care. Whit is charming in his exasperation with life. Merritt's growth in owning her own story is powerful. And Helen, in her death, gave them a gift that allowed them to find their way to the future.
🎧 Audiobook Thoughts: Renata Friedman and James Fouhey are just great in this dual narration. I was completely consumed by their performance! (11h 15m)
Helen Longacre died of cancer last year, leaving behind her husband Whit, their eight-year-old daughter, and a global fandom awaiting the final book in her wildly popular children's fantasy series, Greenwood Castle. In her will, Helen specifically stated that Whit — a mystery author — be the one to finish the final book. For a year, Whit has spiraled: grieving his wife, learning to navigate life as a single parent, and carrying the weight of this monumental request (especially since he has no idea how Helen intended to end the series). Then Whit meets Merritt Pryor — MFA drop-out, local indie bookseller, and Greenwood Castle superfan. Together, they decide to tackle the book. The task unexpectedly reignites Merritt's love of writing and Whit's passion for life, and along the way, they form a deeply important friendship while trying to resist complicated romantic feelings neither expected.
What a debut! This is one of those books that feels like a warm hug to your soul. The characters are messy, tender, complicated, and trying their best. The families are complex, but they love each other so deeply. Grief and the complexities of moving on are handled with such care. Whit is charming in his exasperation with life. Merritt's growth in owning her own story is powerful. And Helen, in her death, gave them a gift that allowed them to find their way to the future.
🎧 Audiobook Thoughts: Renata Friedman and James Fouhey are just great in this dual narration. I was completely consumed by their performance! (11h 15m)
April 12, 2026
How the Story Goes is a heartfelt and charming read that blends grief, healing, and unexpected love. The story follows Whit as he works to honor his late wife’s final wish—finishing her last book. Along the way, he meets Merritt, and the two form a partnership that slowly grows into something deeper.
What really stood out to me was Merritt’s character development. Watching her grow, open up, and transform by the end of the story was incredibly rewarding and added real emotional depth to the narrative. The connection between her and Whit felt genuine, and their journey together was both touching and uplifting.
While the story leans into familiar romantic themes, it does so in a way that feels warm and engaging. Overall, it’s a sweet love story with meaningful character growth and a satisfying emotional payoff.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC
What really stood out to me was Merritt’s character development. Watching her grow, open up, and transform by the end of the story was incredibly rewarding and added real emotional depth to the narrative. The connection between her and Whit felt genuine, and their journey together was both touching and uplifting.
While the story leans into familiar romantic themes, it does so in a way that feels warm and engaging. Overall, it’s a sweet love story with meaningful character growth and a satisfying emotional payoff.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC
April 11, 2026
How the Story Goes has a sweet premise (second chance love wrapped around a literary world) and for the most part, it delivered something genuinely heartwarming. There’s a tenderness to this story that I appreciated, and the way grief and loss are woven through alongside real glimmers of hope was well-done. The literary angle was a fun touch that gave the whole thing a little extra charm.
Renata Friedman and James Fouhey narrate for Harper Audio, and together they bring a warmth to the story that really suits the material. Both performances felt natural and unhurried. Production quality with Harper Audio always delivers a polished experience.
My biggest critique, and why this was more a 3.5 star read for me, was the pacing. There are stretches in the middle where the story lingers too long in the same emotional space, and instead of deepening what was already there, it starts to feel like it’s circling. Those slower sections would have been better served by pivoting into something fresh—a new development, a shift in tension, anything to keep the momentum moving. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did make me a little restless when I wanted to be fully swept up.
Overall, How the Story Goes is a warm, hopeful read with a romantic core that genuinely charmed me. If you’re in the mood for a quiet, character-driven second chance story with some literary flair, it’s well worth your time.
Thank you to Harper Audio and NetGalley for the ARC.
Renata Friedman and James Fouhey narrate for Harper Audio, and together they bring a warmth to the story that really suits the material. Both performances felt natural and unhurried. Production quality with Harper Audio always delivers a polished experience.
My biggest critique, and why this was more a 3.5 star read for me, was the pacing. There are stretches in the middle where the story lingers too long in the same emotional space, and instead of deepening what was already there, it starts to feel like it’s circling. Those slower sections would have been better served by pivoting into something fresh—a new development, a shift in tension, anything to keep the momentum moving. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did make me a little restless when I wanted to be fully swept up.
Overall, How the Story Goes is a warm, hopeful read with a romantic core that genuinely charmed me. If you’re in the mood for a quiet, character-driven second chance story with some literary flair, it’s well worth your time.
Thank you to Harper Audio and NetGalley for the ARC.
December 9, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel that explores themes of love, grief, betrayal, self-doubt, creativity, and triumph. I read it more slowly than my usual pace to savor both the prose and unfoldment of the love story between two vulnerable and highly relatable people – each struggling with loss. The bond forged between the two begins with their mutual talent for writing and the challenge to fulfill a seemingly insurmountable task.
The character development is solid and portrays the protagonists as complex people with a wide range of emotional nuances. The heavier overtones are balanced by well-placed humorous passages. Overall, this is a satisfying read that fulfills what the book synopsis accurately describes. I look forward to more novels by this talented author.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
The character development is solid and portrays the protagonists as complex people with a wide range of emotional nuances. The heavier overtones are balanced by well-placed humorous passages. Overall, this is a satisfying read that fulfills what the book synopsis accurately describes. I look forward to more novels by this talented author.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
November 16, 2025
4.75 stars 🌟 what an amazing debut oh my goodness 🥹 i adored whitmerritt!! they were so refreshing, from their clear communication to their lighthearted banter 💖 books about books is one of my FAVORITE sub-tropes and this was done so well 📖🍁🧚♀️ i loved merritts mom, annie, evie, all the ladies at the bookshop and the town of whelk harbor so much!!
the writing made me laugh, feel pits in my stomach when something especially sad was happening, and it also made me excited to hear about how whit and merritts, and helen’s story would end 🫂 this was WONDERFUL and i will definitely be reading more by this author if he releases more in the future 😇
a special thank you to netgalley and avon publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
the writing made me laugh, feel pits in my stomach when something especially sad was happening, and it also made me excited to hear about how whit and merritts, and helen’s story would end 🫂 this was WONDERFUL and i will definitely be reading more by this author if he releases more in the future 😇
a special thank you to netgalley and avon publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
December 29, 2025
A delightful, lovely story that I devoured in less than a day. So many great nods to the writing and publishing worlds that I really enjoyed in this one!
May 6, 2026
One of the only times the marketing is actually accurate. Perfect for fans of Nora Ephron.
This is a rom-com with heavier themes of grief, but it still manages to be funny and uplifting. Because of the mid-chapter perspective shifts, I think this works best as an immersive read or audiobook.
It follows Whit, a mystery author and single dad, navigating life after losing his wife to cancer. She was the author of a wildly popular, beloved children’s fantasy series, and he’s been tasked with writing the final book. The pressure to not let down her fans or her legacy is overwhelming, and he feels completely out of his depth.
Then he meets Merit, a superfan of the series and a writer, and she ends up being exactly the person he needs to help him finish it.
What starts as a job slowly turns into something more, whether they’re ready for it or not. Whit has to face his grief and the guilt of moving forward, while Merit is trying to trust again after being burned by an absolute asshat.
The pacing is steady, the narration is excellent, and the characters are flawed but lovable. I really enjoyed this and honestly just wish it had been longer.
Thank you to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC.
Spice level: closed door.
This is a rom-com with heavier themes of grief, but it still manages to be funny and uplifting. Because of the mid-chapter perspective shifts, I think this works best as an immersive read or audiobook.
It follows Whit, a mystery author and single dad, navigating life after losing his wife to cancer. She was the author of a wildly popular, beloved children’s fantasy series, and he’s been tasked with writing the final book. The pressure to not let down her fans or her legacy is overwhelming, and he feels completely out of his depth.
Then he meets Merit, a superfan of the series and a writer, and she ends up being exactly the person he needs to help him finish it.
What starts as a job slowly turns into something more, whether they’re ready for it or not. Whit has to face his grief and the guilt of moving forward, while Merit is trying to trust again after being burned by an absolute asshat.
The pacing is steady, the narration is excellent, and the characters are flawed but lovable. I really enjoyed this and honestly just wish it had been longer.
Thank you to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC.
Spice level: closed door.
May 17, 2026
IG review: https://www.instagram.com/p/DYdBqw_G0...
3/3.5 stars. A very bookish romance with themes of grief. This should’ve been a huge winner for me!
Single father, Whit, is still grieving the loss of his wife Helen. On top of that he has been left the task to write the last book of her blockbuster, best selling book series. An impossible task. So her employs the help of Merritt, local bookseller with years of knowledge and love for his wife’s books.
I thought this was a very sweet love story. It just didn’t wow me or actively compel me to keep reading. I didn’t feel the deep emotional connection between the two main characters. It was a quiet romance. For me, Merritt’s backstory and the book writing were more interesting than the actual romance. I just thought it was fine.
I would still absolutely recommend this one to the right reader!
Spice level: closed door
Thank you Avon books for the gifted book!!
3/3.5 stars. A very bookish romance with themes of grief. This should’ve been a huge winner for me!
Single father, Whit, is still grieving the loss of his wife Helen. On top of that he has been left the task to write the last book of her blockbuster, best selling book series. An impossible task. So her employs the help of Merritt, local bookseller with years of knowledge and love for his wife’s books.
I thought this was a very sweet love story. It just didn’t wow me or actively compel me to keep reading. I didn’t feel the deep emotional connection between the two main characters. It was a quiet romance. For me, Merritt’s backstory and the book writing were more interesting than the actual romance. I just thought it was fine.
I would still absolutely recommend this one to the right reader!
Spice level: closed door
Thank you Avon books for the gifted book!!
April 7, 2026
It started out strong and then became vastly disappointing. The book started to lose me 2/3 of the way through with the utter lack of chemistry between the two main characters. Their connection was so surface level and bland. The MMC was written oddly (the author would put in so many lines about things he “hated” like the gate code and tea the fmc liked… like why?? It made him so grumpy sounding and not in an endearing way). But the END OMG I HATED THE END. I guess I just wouldn’t make the decision they did, so the book was a wash for me at that point. Big oof.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for my honest review.
April 16, 2026
Super cute and cozy!! Loved the plot of two strangers having to come together to finish a children’s fantasy novel. That was my favorite part of the book; I was really invested in their progress and how the book would turn out. I didn’t feel much for the romance but I enjoyed the characters on their own!! I honestly wish we got more depth on everyone, including Whit’s daughter Annie. The story was fast paced and entertaining and I enjoyed the writing. I think overall I just wanted more depth all around!! I think I would’ve been more invested in the romance that way. Still a super sweet read. Thank you Avon for the arc!!
May 11, 2026
How the Story Goes is SUCH a sweet book about books. The characters are well-developed and I truly invested in their overall happiness. I especially enjoyed the growth and depth in Whit as the writing style even seemed to shift throughout to best display his shifting life perspective
April 4, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! What a lovely, cozy, bookish romance with the most endearing characters and emotional depth.
Whit and Merritt are such open and empathetic characters who are struggling with big things while also learning to see the opportunities that are out there when they regain their sense of self. The romance had a realistic and slow friends to lovers build up that fit well in the larger story line, feeling very natural for who they are and what they've experienced. Whit and Merritt as an author duo writing Whit's late wife's final children's fantasy novel provided a vehicle for this book to ponder the joy and impact of reading in a way that was wildly sweet.
I just need more of this story now. I'd love to see more of Merritt's book, Merritt hopefully flourishing after the article about the novel, and Ian possibly using this as a chance to become a more likeable character. There's a lot that didn't feel wrapped up enough for me so hopefully that is a sign of more to come!
Whit and Merritt are such open and empathetic characters who are struggling with big things while also learning to see the opportunities that are out there when they regain their sense of self. The romance had a realistic and slow friends to lovers build up that fit well in the larger story line, feeling very natural for who they are and what they've experienced. Whit and Merritt as an author duo writing Whit's late wife's final children's fantasy novel provided a vehicle for this book to ponder the joy and impact of reading in a way that was wildly sweet.
I just need more of this story now. I'd love to see more of Merritt's book, Merritt hopefully flourishing after the article about the novel, and Ian possibly using this as a chance to become a more likeable character. There's a lot that didn't feel wrapped up enough for me so hopefully that is a sign of more to come!
March 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars, 🫑 romcom)
I’ve always had a soft spot for characters who share my name, and for our MMC, Whitman aka: Whit, I have spared no exception. A widower, devoted father to a precocious little girl, and the husband of a beloved children’s fantasy author, Whit is under immense pressure to complete his late wife’s final book in her cherished series.
Fifteen months after her passing, Whit remains stuck, staring at a blinking cursor as grief and self-doubt stifle his ability to write anything he feels is worthy of her legacy. With a deadline fast approaching, he unexpectedly brings in Merritt, a devoted fan of the series and fellow writer, to help him finish the story. Her deep knowledge and love for the books make her the perfect partner, but as their collaboration continues, it becomes clear that Merritt has struggles and secrets of her own. What begins as a working relationship, evolves into friendship… and maybe even something more.
To borrow Whit’s own words, this book is “compulsively readable.” It’s heartfelt, funny, and incredibly engaging. Whit’s mix of humor and vulnerability made me want to reach into the pages and give him a hug, while Merritt shines as a strong, self-aware female lead who knows her value. The witty, sharp dialogue between two talented writers, paired with sweeping, spontaneous gestures reminiscent of classic Nora Ephron-level storytelling, makes this story truly special. I cannot recommend this book enough.
As always, a huge thank you to Avon Books, NetGalley, and Andrew Forrester for a digital copy of his book in exchange for my honest thoughts. Andrew, as a debut author, I cannot wait to see where your writing takes you!
I’ve always had a soft spot for characters who share my name, and for our MMC, Whitman aka: Whit, I have spared no exception. A widower, devoted father to a precocious little girl, and the husband of a beloved children’s fantasy author, Whit is under immense pressure to complete his late wife’s final book in her cherished series.
Fifteen months after her passing, Whit remains stuck, staring at a blinking cursor as grief and self-doubt stifle his ability to write anything he feels is worthy of her legacy. With a deadline fast approaching, he unexpectedly brings in Merritt, a devoted fan of the series and fellow writer, to help him finish the story. Her deep knowledge and love for the books make her the perfect partner, but as their collaboration continues, it becomes clear that Merritt has struggles and secrets of her own. What begins as a working relationship, evolves into friendship… and maybe even something more.
To borrow Whit’s own words, this book is “compulsively readable.” It’s heartfelt, funny, and incredibly engaging. Whit’s mix of humor and vulnerability made me want to reach into the pages and give him a hug, while Merritt shines as a strong, self-aware female lead who knows her value. The witty, sharp dialogue between two talented writers, paired with sweeping, spontaneous gestures reminiscent of classic Nora Ephron-level storytelling, makes this story truly special. I cannot recommend this book enough.
As always, a huge thank you to Avon Books, NetGalley, and Andrew Forrester for a digital copy of his book in exchange for my honest thoughts. Andrew, as a debut author, I cannot wait to see where your writing takes you!
March 3, 2026
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for How the Story Goes by Andrew Forrester
Let me start by saying: I love You’ve Got Mail (fight me!!) so all the little nods and references? Ya got me
This is one of those beautifully written, book-about-books romances that had me hooked from the start. Completing a deceased loved one’s final novel- Such a great concept, and it was handled with so much care. I loved how the story within the story felt real and how invested I became in both worlds
At its heart, this is about grief- it’s messy, complicated, & life-altering. Whit’s especially seeps into everything: his relationships, his career, his sense of self. Merritt’s loss mirrors his in a different way, and watching them slowly find healing together was tender and incredibly compelling. Two broken hearts figuring it out side by side- it was lovely
It also had all the romcom vibes- sweet, supportive family and friends, gentleness, understanding, but it doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. It’s about believing in yourself, going after what you want, and letting people show up for you
Another book about books… and it absolutely did not disappoint!
Let me start by saying: I love You’ve Got Mail (fight me!!) so all the little nods and references? Ya got me
This is one of those beautifully written, book-about-books romances that had me hooked from the start. Completing a deceased loved one’s final novel- Such a great concept, and it was handled with so much care. I loved how the story within the story felt real and how invested I became in both worlds
At its heart, this is about grief- it’s messy, complicated, & life-altering. Whit’s especially seeps into everything: his relationships, his career, his sense of self. Merritt’s loss mirrors his in a different way, and watching them slowly find healing together was tender and incredibly compelling. Two broken hearts figuring it out side by side- it was lovely
It also had all the romcom vibes- sweet, supportive family and friends, gentleness, understanding, but it doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. It’s about believing in yourself, going after what you want, and letting people show up for you
Another book about books… and it absolutely did not disappoint!
November 25, 2025
I loved this book! While not at all similar to the TV series Younger, this book takes place in the broader publishing world which is a similar delight. Widower Whit is tasked with finishing his late wife’s extremely famous youth fantasy series and is completely stuck. Merritt is picking up the pieces of her life, and following a chance meeting finds herself helping Whit in his endeavor. This story is a celebration of humanity, with beautifully written characters and dialog in a cozy town setting (does it give Stars Hollow or is that just me?) with many nods to the goddess herself, Nora Ephron. I loved it. Read it!
March 9, 2026
Another book about books, so you know I’m already leaning towards loving it. It did not disappoint. Whit is left with the daunting task of finishing his late wife’s children’s fantasy series. After securing the help of Merritt, a huge fan of the books and fellow writer, the two of them set out to tackle the final installment of the beloved series. Every character in this story played a valuable role and every character was extremely likable. The hidden nuggets about other books and movies was a lovely touch. Thank you to the publisher for the advanced copy. This book arrives on shelves May 5, 2026.
May 8, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley & Harper Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
How the Story Goes by Andrew Forrester was such a warm, heartfelt surprise. This story blends grief, creativity, second chances, and romance into something that feels both tender and deeply bookish. I loved the premise of a widower trying to finish his late wife’s beloved fantasy series alongside a former MFA student who has lost her confidence in writing. It felt like a love letter to storytelling, fandom, and the healing power of books.
One of my favorite aspects of this novel was getting a romance written by a male author. Andrew Forrester brought a softness and emotional vulnerability to Whit that made the romance feel genuine and refreshing. The relationship development between Whit and Merritt unfolded naturally, with plenty of emotional depth underneath the chemistry. Their shared love of stories and writing gave the romance an extra layer that really worked for me.
The grief elements were handled thoughtfully, especially as Whit struggled with honoring his late wife’s legacy while also figuring out how to move forward. I also really enjoyed the small-town bookstore atmosphere and the behind-the-scenes look at publishing and writing.
The audiobook elevated the experience even more. Renata Friedman and James Fouhey both delivered wonderful performances that captured the emotional nuances of the characters beautifully. Their narration made the story feel intimate and immersive, especially during the quieter emotional moments.
This was emotional, comforting, and full of heart — a great pick for readers who love books about books, healing journeys, and character-driven romance.
How the Story Goes by Andrew Forrester was such a warm, heartfelt surprise. This story blends grief, creativity, second chances, and romance into something that feels both tender and deeply bookish. I loved the premise of a widower trying to finish his late wife’s beloved fantasy series alongside a former MFA student who has lost her confidence in writing. It felt like a love letter to storytelling, fandom, and the healing power of books.
One of my favorite aspects of this novel was getting a romance written by a male author. Andrew Forrester brought a softness and emotional vulnerability to Whit that made the romance feel genuine and refreshing. The relationship development between Whit and Merritt unfolded naturally, with plenty of emotional depth underneath the chemistry. Their shared love of stories and writing gave the romance an extra layer that really worked for me.
The grief elements were handled thoughtfully, especially as Whit struggled with honoring his late wife’s legacy while also figuring out how to move forward. I also really enjoyed the small-town bookstore atmosphere and the behind-the-scenes look at publishing and writing.
The audiobook elevated the experience even more. Renata Friedman and James Fouhey both delivered wonderful performances that captured the emotional nuances of the characters beautifully. Their narration made the story feel intimate and immersive, especially during the quieter emotional moments.
This was emotional, comforting, and full of heart — a great pick for readers who love books about books, healing journeys, and character-driven romance.
May 9, 2026
This charming novel is told from two alternating points of view. Whit is a single dad still grieving the loss of his wife Helen, who was a famous author of a middle grade fantasy series. Although Whit is a writer himself (of mystery novels), he’s struggling with Helen’s bequest that he finish the 5th and final book in her series. Merritt, meanwhile, has dropped out of her MFA program after a relationship with a professor gone wrong, and moved back in with her school librarian mother and is working at a bookstore while trying to rediscover her own inspiration to write. And she’s also a huge fan of Helen’s series and wants to write middle grade fantasy herself. And when she and Whit meet each other… well, you’ll just have to read for yourself to find out what happens!
I really loved this book, such a sweet and compelling read. I love books about books and this one had it all - authors, a bookstore, a school library, discussion of books that various characters write! Plus, I just really love a male author who can write female characters sensitively and realistically, and who are not afraid to write romance! I couldn’t put this one down, and I really wish I could read Helen’s fantasy series too! A wonderful debut, and I look forward to seeing what Andrew Forrester writes next!
4.25 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy (out now); all opinions are my own.
I really loved this book, such a sweet and compelling read. I love books about books and this one had it all - authors, a bookstore, a school library, discussion of books that various characters write! Plus, I just really love a male author who can write female characters sensitively and realistically, and who are not afraid to write romance! I couldn’t put this one down, and I really wish I could read Helen’s fantasy series too! A wonderful debut, and I look forward to seeing what Andrew Forrester writes next!
4.25 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy (out now); all opinions are my own.
May 7, 2026
For bookish fans everywhere, Andrew Forrester's debut novel is a charming delight. When young widower Whit is tasked with finishing his wife's bestselling children's fantasy series, he puts it off as long as possible. With the publisher "helpfully" checking in and the deadline looming, he's desperately been searching for any clues Helen left behind of how she envisioned her series wrapping up. Merritt Pryor has recently moved back home, dropping out of an MFA program after a disastrous relationship. A chance encounter occurs between Whit and Merritt prompts Whit to ask Merritt for help on the final novel when he realizes Merritt is a true fan of Helen's series and has a writer's heart, For Merritt this is a chance to prove to herself she is talented. Told against the backdrop of a cute, seaside New England town with a cast of colorful characters, How the Story Goes needs to be on bookshelves everywhere. I loved the story of Whit and his daughter Annie, their bookish friends and how they are navigating living in spite of grief. Merritt's bookstore coworkers and librarian mother are fun supporting characters and I wanted to cozy up in the coffee shop where Merritt spends time writing. Booklovers will adore this novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
May 8, 2026
How The Story Goes by Andrew Forrester is a charming, bookish, debut romance. The story features Whit, a 37-year old mystery writer who has been tasked with completing the final book of his recently deceased wife’s popular children’s fantasy novel. Overwhelmed with the task and struggling with writer’s block, Whit enlists the help of Merritt Pryor, an MFA dropout and daughter of the beloved school librarian in their small New England town. The author deftly alternates between Whit and Merritt’s unique points of view. I loved their banter and fell in love with them as they SLOWLY fell for each other.
The story is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and sweet, slow burn romance. The characters are awkward and relatable, especially gentle, and often clueless Whit. He’s endearing as he bumbles through his grief, while doing his best to comfort his young daughter, fulfill his wife’s dying wish, and potentially find love again. The delightful side characters also add to the story’s overall charm. I really enjoyed this sweet story with heart! 4/5⭐️
Thank you to Avon Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The story is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and sweet, slow burn romance. The characters are awkward and relatable, especially gentle, and often clueless Whit. He’s endearing as he bumbles through his grief, while doing his best to comfort his young daughter, fulfill his wife’s dying wish, and potentially find love again. The delightful side characters also add to the story’s overall charm. I really enjoyed this sweet story with heart! 4/5⭐️
Thank you to Avon Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 11, 2026
✨Hello, I’m Leisa, extremely picky romance reader, and I absolutely ADORED THIS BOOK! It’s small-town cozy and bookish, heartfelt and reflective, and I just want every one of you to rush out and pick up your own copy because it’s the sweetest read.
✨I love the literary world brought to life in these pages, from cozy bookstores and libraries to the writing and publishing world, and even a bestselling children’s series I genuinely wish I could read for myself.
✨This is an emotionally centered read with themes of family dynamics, grief and loss, and creative voice along with characters you can’t help but fall in love with. Every last one of them. Okay except for one, but you’ll like not liking that one.
✨This book gave me all the good feelings, and I will absolutely be reading it again in the fall because there are some incredibly vivid small-town New England autumn scenes that had me longing for October.
🎧 I alternated between the print and audio versions of this book and loved both. The narrators were a perfect fit and really brought it to life for me.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Don’t miss this one.
🌿Read if you like:
✨Debut novels
✨Books about books
✨Closed door romance
✨Small-town New England settings
✨Single dad main characters
✨Writer and literary themes
✨Love after loss
✨Grief and healing
✨Family dynamics
✨You’ve Got Mail
✨This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page
✨Grace & Henry’s Holiday Marathon by Matthew Norman
✨I love the literary world brought to life in these pages, from cozy bookstores and libraries to the writing and publishing world, and even a bestselling children’s series I genuinely wish I could read for myself.
✨This is an emotionally centered read with themes of family dynamics, grief and loss, and creative voice along with characters you can’t help but fall in love with. Every last one of them. Okay except for one, but you’ll like not liking that one.
✨This book gave me all the good feelings, and I will absolutely be reading it again in the fall because there are some incredibly vivid small-town New England autumn scenes that had me longing for October.
🎧 I alternated between the print and audio versions of this book and loved both. The narrators were a perfect fit and really brought it to life for me.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Don’t miss this one.
🌿Read if you like:
✨Debut novels
✨Books about books
✨Closed door romance
✨Small-town New England settings
✨Single dad main characters
✨Writer and literary themes
✨Love after loss
✨Grief and healing
✨Family dynamics
✨You’ve Got Mail
✨This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page
✨Grace & Henry’s Holiday Marathon by Matthew Norman
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