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Side Character Energy
After a series of Mr Wrongs, Bee has finally found her Mr Right. Attractive, mature—William is everything she’s been looking for.
Gertrude is Bee’s best friend since forever (and also her flatmate, workmate and Insta content videographer). She’s happy for Bee—just as she’s been sad for Bee during those romantic missteps, and supportive of Bee in everything else. Actually, now she thinks about it, Gertrude isn’t sure there even is a Gertrude that isn’t determined by what Bee wants or thinks or feels.
Panicked to realise she’s not the main character in her own life, she turns to William’s best friend, Arthur. He isn’t the obvious choice for life coaching—apart from anything else, Gertrude doesn’t really like him—but everyone else is…Well, there is no everyone else. Just Bee.
Arthur’s mission is to find out whether there’s more to Gertrude than she thinks, and if so, what it is. The problem is, that might throw up some hard questions—about her life, her choices and above all, her friendship with Bee.
Side Character Energy is a sharp, wise, hilarious novel about love—romantic, platonic and toxic—from a brilliant new voice in Australian fiction.
Olivia Tolich is an emerging author based in Melbourne (Naarm). She has made books her entire personality from a young age and has terrible eyesight to show for it. She works as an educational publisher and has a dog named Poppy who really hates that her human’s main interest involves sitting around staring at a computer. Her first novel, Side Character Energy, will be released in Australia in 2026 via Text Publishing.
Gertrude is Bee’s best friend since forever (and also her flatmate, workmate and Insta content videographer). She’s happy for Bee—just as she’s been sad for Bee during those romantic missteps, and supportive of Bee in everything else. Actually, now she thinks about it, Gertrude isn’t sure there even is a Gertrude that isn’t determined by what Bee wants or thinks or feels.
Panicked to realise she’s not the main character in her own life, she turns to William’s best friend, Arthur. He isn’t the obvious choice for life coaching—apart from anything else, Gertrude doesn’t really like him—but everyone else is…Well, there is no everyone else. Just Bee.
Arthur’s mission is to find out whether there’s more to Gertrude than she thinks, and if so, what it is. The problem is, that might throw up some hard questions—about her life, her choices and above all, her friendship with Bee.
Side Character Energy is a sharp, wise, hilarious novel about love—romantic, platonic and toxic—from a brilliant new voice in Australian fiction.
Olivia Tolich is an emerging author based in Melbourne (Naarm). She has made books her entire personality from a young age and has terrible eyesight to show for it. She works as an educational publisher and has a dog named Poppy who really hates that her human’s main interest involves sitting around staring at a computer. Her first novel, Side Character Energy, will be released in Australia in 2026 via Text Publishing.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
About the author
Olivia Tolich
1 book14 followersOlivia Tolich is an emerging author based in Melbourne (Naarm). She has made books her entire personality from a young age and has terrible eyesight to show for it. She works as an educational publisher and has a dog named Poppy who really hates that her human’s main interest involves sitting around staring at a computer. Her first novel, Side Character Energy, will be released in Australia in 2026 via Text Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 18, 2026
Side Character Energy – when someone else has the lead role in your life.
This book made me laugh, wince, and then quietly rethink a few friendships I’ve had (you know the ones).
Side Character Energy is about that horrible, creeping realisation that you might not actually be the main character in your own life, you’re just very good at supporting someone else’s storyline. Gertrude has spent years orbiting her best friend Bee, her hype woman, emotional support human, unpaid life assistant. And when Bee finally gets her perfect man, Gertrude is left staring into the void thinking… wait, who am I when I’m not needed?
What I loved most is how sharp and self aware this book is. It’s funny in that dry, slightly uncomfortable way where you’re laughing but also thinking, “Oh no, this is about me.” Olivia Tolich nails the dynamics of female friendship, the love, the loyalty, the quiet resentments, the way lines blur until you don’t know where you end and someone else begins.
Arthur, the reluctant life coach, is grumpy, honest, and refreshingly uninterested in coddling anyone. Their conversations are where the book really shines, clever, probing, and weirdly soothing.
This isn’t a big dramatic rom-com. It’s smarter than that. It’s about identity, boundaries, emotional labour, and what happens when you finally ask for space instead of applause.
If you’ve ever felt like the side character in someone else’s life, or worried you’ve accidentally made someone else one, this book will hit. Soft but incisive, funny but thoughtful. Big “read this and text your best friend afterwards” energy.
I Highly Recommend.
Congratulations Olivia!
Thank you Text Publishing for my early readers copy.
Available Now!
This book made me laugh, wince, and then quietly rethink a few friendships I’ve had (you know the ones).
Side Character Energy is about that horrible, creeping realisation that you might not actually be the main character in your own life, you’re just very good at supporting someone else’s storyline. Gertrude has spent years orbiting her best friend Bee, her hype woman, emotional support human, unpaid life assistant. And when Bee finally gets her perfect man, Gertrude is left staring into the void thinking… wait, who am I when I’m not needed?
What I loved most is how sharp and self aware this book is. It’s funny in that dry, slightly uncomfortable way where you’re laughing but also thinking, “Oh no, this is about me.” Olivia Tolich nails the dynamics of female friendship, the love, the loyalty, the quiet resentments, the way lines blur until you don’t know where you end and someone else begins.
Arthur, the reluctant life coach, is grumpy, honest, and refreshingly uninterested in coddling anyone. Their conversations are where the book really shines, clever, probing, and weirdly soothing.
This isn’t a big dramatic rom-com. It’s smarter than that. It’s about identity, boundaries, emotional labour, and what happens when you finally ask for space instead of applause.
If you’ve ever felt like the side character in someone else’s life, or worried you’ve accidentally made someone else one, this book will hit. Soft but incisive, funny but thoughtful. Big “read this and text your best friend afterwards” energy.
I Highly Recommend.
Congratulations Olivia!
Thank you Text Publishing for my early readers copy.
Available Now!
December 30, 2025
This book was such a joy to read. An easy, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy that I genuinely couldn’t put down — I was hooked from the very first page and devoured it in just a few hours. It was incredibly relatable, genuinely funny, and refreshingly unpredictable, which made it impossible to guess where things were heading. An impressive debut from a brand new author, and I’m already excited to read whatever she publishes next.
February 11, 2026
This was a bit different to what I was expecting- much more centred on (toxic) friendship than the romance aspect. I wanted to shake every single character (except Arthur) and say “get your shit together” throughout the first 75% of the book. Enjoyable read and will read this Aussie author again.
March 22, 2026
A clever title, a pretty cartoonish cover, a humorous and entertaining plot, a cast of celestial characters and the happy ever after we all want.
Another winning formula story for an additional member of the Debut Crew 2026.
It’s fresh, gooey, warm and charming.
Have you ever been the side character to your best friend’s life and romance….
Then this is the read for you.
Gertrude and Bee are best friends.
They live, work and party together through good, bad and the ugly times.
Now Bee has met the love of her life and Gertie feels like the side character.
Gertie believes she is not even the main character in her own world.
Then enters Arthur, Bee’s boyfriend’s best friend who has the mission to find out about Gertie for him.
She doesn’t even like him but there’s no one else to hang with.
So Gertie takes a chance………
The narrative is very witty, funny and relatable that will give the heart palpitations and leave you with a smile.
This is the perfect read to entertain you while relaxing in a hammock with a glass of wine surrounded by woods of green.
The chemistry, banter and energy between the leads is solid and I so enjoyed my time with them.
A new voice in the romcom genre to keep an eye on.
Another winning formula story for an additional member of the Debut Crew 2026.
It’s fresh, gooey, warm and charming.
Have you ever been the side character to your best friend’s life and romance….
Then this is the read for you.
Gertrude and Bee are best friends.
They live, work and party together through good, bad and the ugly times.
Now Bee has met the love of her life and Gertie feels like the side character.
Gertie believes she is not even the main character in her own world.
Then enters Arthur, Bee’s boyfriend’s best friend who has the mission to find out about Gertie for him.
She doesn’t even like him but there’s no one else to hang with.
So Gertie takes a chance………
The narrative is very witty, funny and relatable that will give the heart palpitations and leave you with a smile.
This is the perfect read to entertain you while relaxing in a hammock with a glass of wine surrounded by woods of green.
The chemistry, banter and energy between the leads is solid and I so enjoyed my time with them.
A new voice in the romcom genre to keep an eye on.
March 22, 2026
This was such a joy to read.
Bee definitely rubbed me the wrong way at times, but I love that I got so invested to feel that way 🤣
Finished with a smile on my face. Heartwarming and cozy read!
Bee definitely rubbed me the wrong way at times, but I love that I got so invested to feel that way 🤣
Finished with a smile on my face. Heartwarming and cozy read!
November 28, 2025
Such a funny, light hearted book. Olivia is a fantastic author that makes you want to keep reading the book and find out what happens to Gertie and if she can finally be the main character in her own life. Highly recommend.
March 29, 2026
Great read 👏🏻 I thought the love story was really cute and loved the weird toxic relationship with Bee and how that played out . I really liked all the main and side chracters (I mean I did not like Bee and William - but for the sake of the story I thought they were great roles - and it made for a funny, silly plot) I thought Gertie’s inner monologue was SO relatable. Great ending.
Would recommend for a nice quick read.
Would recommend for a nice quick read.
February 21, 2026
Fresh and original romance 💕
Side Character Energy is terrific! Funny and sad and messy and heartwarming. Totally a romance but also an insightful riff on female friendship and what happens when the bestie is toxic.
Debut author Olivia Tolich should be very pleased as she has written a charming and perceptive and very Australian romance. Gertrude and Bee are besties living their inner city life - except that it’s Bee’s flat and Bee is the boss at work - but they’ve been friends for years and it’s fine. Truly. But Bee starts going out with William and double dating happens along with William’s rather daggy friend Arthur (love the names!) There’s plenty of snark and banter until Arthur sets off a bomb when he observes that Gertrude can’t say no to Bee.
I laughed at how dry Gertrude can be, and after Arthur’s comment, she has to face up to the nature of her deepest friendship. This gets more complicated - and delicious - when she and Arthur keep meeting up, and getting along.
Set in a vivid and coffee-soaked Melbourne - a delicious read 🥰
Side Character Energy is terrific! Funny and sad and messy and heartwarming. Totally a romance but also an insightful riff on female friendship and what happens when the bestie is toxic.
Debut author Olivia Tolich should be very pleased as she has written a charming and perceptive and very Australian romance. Gertrude and Bee are besties living their inner city life - except that it’s Bee’s flat and Bee is the boss at work - but they’ve been friends for years and it’s fine. Truly. But Bee starts going out with William and double dating happens along with William’s rather daggy friend Arthur (love the names!) There’s plenty of snark and banter until Arthur sets off a bomb when he observes that Gertrude can’t say no to Bee.
I laughed at how dry Gertrude can be, and after Arthur’s comment, she has to face up to the nature of her deepest friendship. This gets more complicated - and delicious - when she and Arthur keep meeting up, and getting along.
Set in a vivid and coffee-soaked Melbourne - a delicious read 🥰
February 19, 2026
A lovely set-in-Melbourne rom com. Olivia Tolich’s first. I hope she is just getting started.
April 3, 2026
This book was bizarre but also refreshingly enjoyable.
April 20, 2026
Side Character Energy is a modern day love story that focuses on Bee (Bianca)…
Okay just kidding! It actually focuses on Gertie (Gertrude), the relationships in her life and her journey to discovering that she is in fact NOT the main character in her own life. Her life has revolved around Bee since the moment their friendship began, but when Gertie has a meet ugly with Bee’s new boyfriend’s (William, NOT Will!) good friend Arthur, things start to change.
Despite Gertie and Arthur having a frienemish relationship, Arthur makes it his mission to help Gertie became the main character in her own life. Getting to read about them becoming closer and Gertie making new friendships, while also prioritising herself and learning so much more about herself that she hadn’t known while living in Bee’s shadow, was so heartbreakingly beautiful.
While the story focuses on Gertie, with her friendship with Bee and her potential relationship with Arthur, it’s so much more. This story had heartbreak, self discovery, toxic relationships and finding the ability to say no, as well as just overall real life issues.
I found myself relating to Gertie and crying out of pride for her character development. I’ve never read a story with the plot of toxic friendships but I enjoyed it so very much, taking the story and thinking about my own personal friendships. I genuinely didn’t want to finish this book because I wish it went on forever!
If you’re looking for an Aussie based love story by a debut Aussie author, where the main love interests sing Enrique Iglesias together at karaoke and he guides her to becoming the main character in her own life, then Side Character Energy NEEDS to be on your tbr!
Okay just kidding! It actually focuses on Gertie (Gertrude), the relationships in her life and her journey to discovering that she is in fact NOT the main character in her own life. Her life has revolved around Bee since the moment their friendship began, but when Gertie has a meet ugly with Bee’s new boyfriend’s (William, NOT Will!) good friend Arthur, things start to change.
Despite Gertie and Arthur having a frienemish relationship, Arthur makes it his mission to help Gertie became the main character in her own life. Getting to read about them becoming closer and Gertie making new friendships, while also prioritising herself and learning so much more about herself that she hadn’t known while living in Bee’s shadow, was so heartbreakingly beautiful.
While the story focuses on Gertie, with her friendship with Bee and her potential relationship with Arthur, it’s so much more. This story had heartbreak, self discovery, toxic relationships and finding the ability to say no, as well as just overall real life issues.
I found myself relating to Gertie and crying out of pride for her character development. I’ve never read a story with the plot of toxic friendships but I enjoyed it so very much, taking the story and thinking about my own personal friendships. I genuinely didn’t want to finish this book because I wish it went on forever!
If you’re looking for an Aussie based love story by a debut Aussie author, where the main love interests sing Enrique Iglesias together at karaoke and he guides her to becoming the main character in her own life, then Side Character Energy NEEDS to be on your tbr!
March 8, 2026
Bee was so well written. So toxically hideous that I hated her instantly.
“I told her I wanted to talk about something. I asked for her advice. And she immediately turned it around to herself.”
That line hit me immediately because I knew a girl exactly like that in high school. The type who somehow manages to make every conversation about them within thirty seconds. Olivia Tolich absolutely nailed that dynamic and it made me wince in recognition more than once while reading.
Gertrude, who much prefers Gertie, slowly realises she’s been cast as a side character in her own life. Living with her high school best friend Bee, she’s allowed this friendship to quietly absorb every spare corner of her existence.
Then Arthur enters the picture, a friend of Bee’s new love, and suddenly Gertie starts to glimpse the possibility of a life where she might actually take the lead.
Watching Gertie gradually claw herself back out of Bee’s shadow was deeply satisfying. I caught myself muttering at a few pages and mentally cheering when she finally took back the leading role in her own narrative.
The one thing that didn’t quite ring true for me was Bee’s late character development. She begins to show a flicker of self-awareness and even a bit of repentance. In my lived experience, women like Bee don’t suddenly reflect and change. They simply get more subtle, more strategic, and more sly in their manipulation.
Still, Bee is the kind of character you love to hate, and that made this a compulsive, slightly rage-inducing read that was very hard to put down
“I told her I wanted to talk about something. I asked for her advice. And she immediately turned it around to herself.”
That line hit me immediately because I knew a girl exactly like that in high school. The type who somehow manages to make every conversation about them within thirty seconds. Olivia Tolich absolutely nailed that dynamic and it made me wince in recognition more than once while reading.
Gertrude, who much prefers Gertie, slowly realises she’s been cast as a side character in her own life. Living with her high school best friend Bee, she’s allowed this friendship to quietly absorb every spare corner of her existence.
Then Arthur enters the picture, a friend of Bee’s new love, and suddenly Gertie starts to glimpse the possibility of a life where she might actually take the lead.
Watching Gertie gradually claw herself back out of Bee’s shadow was deeply satisfying. I caught myself muttering at a few pages and mentally cheering when she finally took back the leading role in her own narrative.
The one thing that didn’t quite ring true for me was Bee’s late character development. She begins to show a flicker of self-awareness and even a bit of repentance. In my lived experience, women like Bee don’t suddenly reflect and change. They simply get more subtle, more strategic, and more sly in their manipulation.
Still, Bee is the kind of character you love to hate, and that made this a compulsive, slightly rage-inducing read that was very hard to put down
April 9, 2026
What happens when you realise that you’re not the main character in your own life?
That’s exactly what SIDE CHARACTER ENERGY, a fabulous debut, asks as we follow Gertie & her bestie Bee. They live together, work together & Gertie’s there for whatever social occasion or even date that Bee tells her to be at. When Gertie’s eyes are opened to the reality of their friendship, she begins embracing her own leading lady energy with the help of Arthur, Bee’s boyfriend’s bestie. What follows may be the beginning of a new romance, a new chapter and perhaps, a friendship forever changed.
I felt like this story had so many great nods to classic rom-coms & while reading it, I was often reminded of Katherine Heigl’s character in 27 DRESSES, who had supported 27 brides & taken a backseat to her sister’s romantic life (& yes, I’m aware there is actually a side character in that movie - Judy Greer’s character!).
This story is probably lighter on the rom - though it’s definitely there! But this journey is really about seeing Gertie take centre stage. Poor Gertie’s friendship with Bee is honestly so one-sided I’m amazed at its longevity!
SIDE CHARACTER ENERGY is endearing, it’s fun and it would make for a great screen adaptation. I love that the book ended with a very satisfying and considered conclusion. It’s hopeful but embedded in reality and it was exactly what Gertie deserved.
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher.
That’s exactly what SIDE CHARACTER ENERGY, a fabulous debut, asks as we follow Gertie & her bestie Bee. They live together, work together & Gertie’s there for whatever social occasion or even date that Bee tells her to be at. When Gertie’s eyes are opened to the reality of their friendship, she begins embracing her own leading lady energy with the help of Arthur, Bee’s boyfriend’s bestie. What follows may be the beginning of a new romance, a new chapter and perhaps, a friendship forever changed.
I felt like this story had so many great nods to classic rom-coms & while reading it, I was often reminded of Katherine Heigl’s character in 27 DRESSES, who had supported 27 brides & taken a backseat to her sister’s romantic life (& yes, I’m aware there is actually a side character in that movie - Judy Greer’s character!).
This story is probably lighter on the rom - though it’s definitely there! But this journey is really about seeing Gertie take centre stage. Poor Gertie’s friendship with Bee is honestly so one-sided I’m amazed at its longevity!
SIDE CHARACTER ENERGY is endearing, it’s fun and it would make for a great screen adaptation. I love that the book ended with a very satisfying and considered conclusion. It’s hopeful but embedded in reality and it was exactly what Gertie deserved.
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher.
April 16, 2026
3.5 rounded up. This was a promising debut novel that flew through in one sitting, even it made me so bloody frustrated haha.
Gertrude has been Bee’s best friend since high school, and always there when she needs her. When Bee meets William, she thinks she’s found the one and Gertie couldn’t be happier for her, but she butts heads with William’s best friend Arthur. They end up becoming frenemies in a sense though when Gertie realises she doesn’t know who she is outside her friendship with Bee and she asks Arthur to help her figure it out. For some reason Bee and William have them chaperone their dates, so Arthur plans their dates to help Gertie (but Bee and William don’t know this). In the process Gertie realises that she’s in a toxic friendship and she learns to stand up for herself.
I’ll start by saying this was marketed as a rom com which I don’t think is right. It’s more about the toxic friendship between Bee and Gertie. Yes, there’s a romance between Gertie and Arthur, but it’s not what I would call a romance book overall. Bee was so horrible - reading about how she treated Gertie actually make me feel ILL lol. I was SCREAMING at Gertie to grow a backbone and tell her to f off hahaha. I do also feel like the characters were slight too old (late 20s, 30s) to be behaving the way they were but that’s just my opinion! I did enjoy this as a whole though, and I look forward to reading what Olivia writes next!
Gertrude has been Bee’s best friend since high school, and always there when she needs her. When Bee meets William, she thinks she’s found the one and Gertie couldn’t be happier for her, but she butts heads with William’s best friend Arthur. They end up becoming frenemies in a sense though when Gertie realises she doesn’t know who she is outside her friendship with Bee and she asks Arthur to help her figure it out. For some reason Bee and William have them chaperone their dates, so Arthur plans their dates to help Gertie (but Bee and William don’t know this). In the process Gertie realises that she’s in a toxic friendship and she learns to stand up for herself.
I’ll start by saying this was marketed as a rom com which I don’t think is right. It’s more about the toxic friendship between Bee and Gertie. Yes, there’s a romance between Gertie and Arthur, but it’s not what I would call a romance book overall. Bee was so horrible - reading about how she treated Gertie actually make me feel ILL lol. I was SCREAMING at Gertie to grow a backbone and tell her to f off hahaha. I do also feel like the characters were slight too old (late 20s, 30s) to be behaving the way they were but that’s just my opinion! I did enjoy this as a whole though, and I look forward to reading what Olivia writes next!
March 1, 2026
BRILLIANT debut and can’t wait to see what’s next ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for fans of Genevieve Novak and Nina Kenwood.
Gertie is coming to terms with the fact she isn’t even the main character in her own life but instead revolves around her best friend Bee. Bee who’s just met the latest “one” and now Bee’s sole purpose is securing her happily ever after with Will. Will’s best friend, Arthur, immediately sees through Gertie and Bee’s friendship which is confronting for Gertie. This call out however does begin a chain of events that force Gertie to rediscover who she is, what she wants and who is worthy of her time (with Arthur’s help).
I LOVED the social commentary in this book, delivered in sarcastic dry humour that had me genuinely laughing. Even if the material is quite frankly a bit dark. But life isn’t all rainbows. It’s struggling with where the hell we fit in when we don’t meet society’s expectations of us. What the hell do we do with our degree that basically qualified us for nothing? Who do we turn to when we’ve been stuck in the most toxic friendship for over a decade? And I love that this book explores that.
This read more like a contemporary romance rather than a rom com as the romance was really secondary to Gertie’s self discovery storyline. But! Arthur was brilliant, flaws and all, no notes 👌🏻 All men could learn a thing or two from Arthur. And I’m so glad Gertie found him ❤️ He felt real. Their banter was on point and all the dialogue felt very natural.
Bonus points for the Melbourne setting, depicted so accurately and the essence captured perfectly.
Gertie is coming to terms with the fact she isn’t even the main character in her own life but instead revolves around her best friend Bee. Bee who’s just met the latest “one” and now Bee’s sole purpose is securing her happily ever after with Will. Will’s best friend, Arthur, immediately sees through Gertie and Bee’s friendship which is confronting for Gertie. This call out however does begin a chain of events that force Gertie to rediscover who she is, what she wants and who is worthy of her time (with Arthur’s help).
I LOVED the social commentary in this book, delivered in sarcastic dry humour that had me genuinely laughing. Even if the material is quite frankly a bit dark. But life isn’t all rainbows. It’s struggling with where the hell we fit in when we don’t meet society’s expectations of us. What the hell do we do with our degree that basically qualified us for nothing? Who do we turn to when we’ve been stuck in the most toxic friendship for over a decade? And I love that this book explores that.
This read more like a contemporary romance rather than a rom com as the romance was really secondary to Gertie’s self discovery storyline. But! Arthur was brilliant, flaws and all, no notes 👌🏻 All men could learn a thing or two from Arthur. And I’m so glad Gertie found him ❤️ He felt real. Their banter was on point and all the dialogue felt very natural.
Bonus points for the Melbourne setting, depicted so accurately and the essence captured perfectly.
March 9, 2026
Side character energy was an entertaining read that kept me from Boredom when there was nothing to watch on Tv. An easy read that did more then tell a cute love story, but dove head first into a mindset I’m sure many can relate too especially approaching the later years of your 20s. It expresses how difficult it can be to walk away from a long friendship when you don’t fully understand who you are and what you want. The writing felt a bit jumbled and I felt a bit confused with some of the plot directions but overall an enjoyable experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2026
A witty and gritty laugh-out-loud rom-com that explores toxic friendships and rediscovering your self-worth. Gertie discovers she’s not the main character of her own life and enlists the help of Arthur to rediscover herself—and maybe fall in love in the process. Olivia is a stellar new voice in Aussie rom-coms and I’m excited to see what she writes next!
February 23, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! It really showed the depths of friendship and our blinkers with friends and potential lovers. It shows how people grow and change through life experiences. This is as much a book about friendship as it is about love! A perfect read to warm your heart ❤️
May 13, 2026
Best book I’ve read this year. It truly spoke to me. I loved it! I’m trying to think of anything I disliked but there is nothing! It’s making me use a lot of exclamation marks!!!
February 18, 2026
a good chick lit book, the character was a bit frustrating at the start, but got better
March 12, 2026
I’ve been a Gertie for so much of my life and really resonated with this book. It also had such a fresh take on romance tropes and kept up with young terms so organically
April 22, 2026
A girl who should have known better realises her.best friend is a narcissist! Hard to want to empathise with her unfortunately
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2026
4.5* this was a refreshing book to read where it was less about the romance and more about someone finding herself. I loved every second of it and I think it was written wonderfully.
March 22, 2026
Reading Side Character Energy felt less like a rom-com and more like being quietly called out for a personality flaw I didn’t realise had a name.
Gertie isn’t just a “side character” she’s what happens when you build a life entirely out of being useful to someone else and then act surprised when you’re left with nothing that’s actually yours. There’s something almost infuriating about how comfortable she is in her own smallness… until she isn’t. And by then, the damage feels embarrassingly self-inflicted.
The book tries to dress this up as self-discovery, but let’s be honest: most of it is just prolonged avoidance. Avoidance of confrontation, of honesty, of any decision that might require a spine. Watching her orbit Bee isn’t heartwarming, it’s exhausting. At some point, loyalty stops being admirable and starts looking like a lack of identity.
And the romance? It’s there, technically. But it feels less like chemistry and more like a narrative device to force growth that probably should’ve happened years ago. Nothing about it feels transformative, just convenient.
What the book does get right, almost too well, is that dull, uncomfortable truth: some people don’t get overshadowed. They choose the shadow because it’s easier than risking being seen and rejected.
There’s no grand awakening here. No satisfying shift into “main character energy.” Just a slow, awkward shuffle toward self-awareness that feels long overdue.
I didn’t finish this book feeling inspired.
I finished it feeling slightly attacked, and not entirely convinced the protagonist earned her way out of it.
Gertie isn’t just a “side character” she’s what happens when you build a life entirely out of being useful to someone else and then act surprised when you’re left with nothing that’s actually yours. There’s something almost infuriating about how comfortable she is in her own smallness… until she isn’t. And by then, the damage feels embarrassingly self-inflicted.
The book tries to dress this up as self-discovery, but let’s be honest: most of it is just prolonged avoidance. Avoidance of confrontation, of honesty, of any decision that might require a spine. Watching her orbit Bee isn’t heartwarming, it’s exhausting. At some point, loyalty stops being admirable and starts looking like a lack of identity.
And the romance? It’s there, technically. But it feels less like chemistry and more like a narrative device to force growth that probably should’ve happened years ago. Nothing about it feels transformative, just convenient.
What the book does get right, almost too well, is that dull, uncomfortable truth: some people don’t get overshadowed. They choose the shadow because it’s easier than risking being seen and rejected.
There’s no grand awakening here. No satisfying shift into “main character energy.” Just a slow, awkward shuffle toward self-awareness that feels long overdue.
I didn’t finish this book feeling inspired.
I finished it feeling slightly attacked, and not entirely convinced the protagonist earned her way out of it.
February 26, 2026
I found this book in the romance section but I actually think it’s more of a general fiction book with a romance subplot.
At its core this is a story of a woman discovering who she is and learning she has worth outside of what she can do for others.
Overall I really enjoyed it and found myself reminiscing my own 20’s experiences.
At its core this is a story of a woman discovering who she is and learning she has worth outside of what she can do for others.
Overall I really enjoyed it and found myself reminiscing my own 20’s experiences.
February 25, 2026
Loved this so much! I was laughing out loud on nearly every page. So relatable and fun, and with an emotional punch, too!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Side Character Energy is the first novel by Australian author Olivia Tolich and it was a wonderful, funny and endearing story about friends good and bad with a little love thrown in.
Gertie and Bee have been friends since high school and now live together and work together. Gertie is Bee’s biggest cheerleader and has supported her through many relationships. But now Bee has found her Mr Perfect – William. William and Bee keep insisting that Gertie and William’s best friend Arthur come along on their dates and Gertie starts to realise that she isn’t sure who she is with Bee in her life.
On a whim she asks Arthur to help her work out how to become the main character in her own life. Arthur isn’t a natural life coach but he gives it a shot and soon Gertie is questioning all of her life choices and her initial irritation towards Arthur gives way to attraction.
I really enjoyed this book! Sure, I’m well beyond first loves and friendships in your twenties but I was so invested in Gertie’s life. Side Character Energy was a refreshing, surprising read and I found it genuinely funny. I loved watching Gertie take control of her life and find her happy. It was a page turner and I think it is going to be very well loved!
Thank you @text_publishing for my #gifted copy.
Gertie and Bee have been friends since high school and now live together and work together. Gertie is Bee’s biggest cheerleader and has supported her through many relationships. But now Bee has found her Mr Perfect – William. William and Bee keep insisting that Gertie and William’s best friend Arthur come along on their dates and Gertie starts to realise that she isn’t sure who she is with Bee in her life.
On a whim she asks Arthur to help her work out how to become the main character in her own life. Arthur isn’t a natural life coach but he gives it a shot and soon Gertie is questioning all of her life choices and her initial irritation towards Arthur gives way to attraction.
I really enjoyed this book! Sure, I’m well beyond first loves and friendships in your twenties but I was so invested in Gertie’s life. Side Character Energy was a refreshing, surprising read and I found it genuinely funny. I loved watching Gertie take control of her life and find her happy. It was a page turner and I think it is going to be very well loved!
Thank you @text_publishing for my #gifted copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oooooooo I adore this book.
I recommend this one if you like a fun romcom with strong Aussie vibes. I smashed through this book in two days. Such an enjoyable and easy holiday read. Debut author Olivia Tolich brings Gertrude, Bee, William and Arthur to vibrant life with a dry wit and strong Aussie voice.
Gertrude exudes side character energy and her best friend, Bee, is the star attraction. Bee is the one who has “main character” vibes… everything in Bee’s life is about Bee. The only problem is that everything in Gertrude’s life is also about Bee. The flat, the boy, the job… and every reaction Gertrude has is always checked, not only for how Bee will respond, but also to keep the peace in her own rather dull life. Meeting Arthur makes Gertrude question her responses and reactions to Bee’s selfish behaviour. She soon realises her own life has given way to Bee’s pulled focus. What about Gertrude. What does she want? She doesn’t know. Everything has always been about Bee. To find herself, Gertrude and Arthur look into what Gertrude might enjoy – outside of Bee’s presence – and it turns out, Gertrude has a personality and likes all of her own. She just needs to drop the Bee-blinders and find her own main character energy.
I mean, who doesn’t second guess every look given, or every word spoken ? Talk about writing stories in your own head about how a friend, or a boy, or a family member will react to something you do or say. And who hasn’t felt like an NPC at some point? It’s not often I feel “seen” in a romcom but this one really hit the nail on the head for me. So many of Gertrude’s anxious people pleasing internal conversations rang bells. (What will they think of me if I say that, what if they take that the wrong way, what if I say no, how will they judge me…) That inner voice spins so many circles you could be a failed ballerina getting dizzy from all the what ifs – and that’s before a word has ever been spoken.
It’s strange to say, but this is a terrific story about toxic friendship and people pleasers. It’s a reminder for the people pleasers not to lose their inner voice beneath the need to make everyone else happy. It’s also a reminder that wanting people to think well of you shouldn’t mean dimming your own light. It’s a book about learning to stick up for yourself. And also a warning not to lose your own personality amongst the bright lights of your friends. You can want things too. Big things, Bright things… the hot boi, for example. This is a terrific holiday read with strong romcom vibes and a lot of bite. Plus – it’s set in Melbourne. I love an Aussie Romcom and this one is set locally for me, so all the more fun to enjoy.
This one is available from the 3rd Feb 2026… Put it on your radar.
I recommend this one if you like a fun romcom with strong Aussie vibes. I smashed through this book in two days. Such an enjoyable and easy holiday read. Debut author Olivia Tolich brings Gertrude, Bee, William and Arthur to vibrant life with a dry wit and strong Aussie voice.
Gertrude exudes side character energy and her best friend, Bee, is the star attraction. Bee is the one who has “main character” vibes… everything in Bee’s life is about Bee. The only problem is that everything in Gertrude’s life is also about Bee. The flat, the boy, the job… and every reaction Gertrude has is always checked, not only for how Bee will respond, but also to keep the peace in her own rather dull life. Meeting Arthur makes Gertrude question her responses and reactions to Bee’s selfish behaviour. She soon realises her own life has given way to Bee’s pulled focus. What about Gertrude. What does she want? She doesn’t know. Everything has always been about Bee. To find herself, Gertrude and Arthur look into what Gertrude might enjoy – outside of Bee’s presence – and it turns out, Gertrude has a personality and likes all of her own. She just needs to drop the Bee-blinders and find her own main character energy.
I mean, who doesn’t second guess every look given, or every word spoken ? Talk about writing stories in your own head about how a friend, or a boy, or a family member will react to something you do or say. And who hasn’t felt like an NPC at some point? It’s not often I feel “seen” in a romcom but this one really hit the nail on the head for me. So many of Gertrude’s anxious people pleasing internal conversations rang bells. (What will they think of me if I say that, what if they take that the wrong way, what if I say no, how will they judge me…) That inner voice spins so many circles you could be a failed ballerina getting dizzy from all the what ifs – and that’s before a word has ever been spoken.
It’s strange to say, but this is a terrific story about toxic friendship and people pleasers. It’s a reminder for the people pleasers not to lose their inner voice beneath the need to make everyone else happy. It’s also a reminder that wanting people to think well of you shouldn’t mean dimming your own light. It’s a book about learning to stick up for yourself. And also a warning not to lose your own personality amongst the bright lights of your friends. You can want things too. Big things, Bright things… the hot boi, for example. This is a terrific holiday read with strong romcom vibes and a lot of bite. Plus – it’s set in Melbourne. I love an Aussie Romcom and this one is set locally for me, so all the more fun to enjoy.
This one is available from the 3rd Feb 2026… Put it on your radar.
February 25, 2026
Gertrude, who much prefers Gertie, has just discovered that perhaps she is a bit player in her own life. Living and working with her high school best friend, Bianca aka Bee, Gertie has gradually allowed this friend to absorb every minute of her existence. After meeting Arthur, a friend of Bianca's new love, Gertie decides that perhaps he could help her rediscover herself - to claim back a leading role before she is type cast forever as the sad supportive best friend standing in Bee's shadow
This book was absolutely fabulous from beginning to end. It made me grit my teeth, growl at a page or two and cheer when a backbone was found. My husband always tells me that an author, scriptwriter, actor or director has done a great job if you absolutely despise a character - if you just want to hiss at them 'you are a villain'. Olivia Tolich is a true genius in creating a character that I thoroughly disliked from the moment I met her until just about the last page. I think this is what made the book so engaging because I just wanted to grab up the main character and whisk her away from the situation she had managed to immerse herself in for so long.
I love a good Australian story - it is fun to have that familarity within the settings. Olivia Tolich has created a book that should absolutely be added to everyone's TBR pile if you like a romcom with a splash of drama and an extra helping of human foibles. Gertie is my new best friend.
This book was absolutely fabulous from beginning to end. It made me grit my teeth, growl at a page or two and cheer when a backbone was found. My husband always tells me that an author, scriptwriter, actor or director has done a great job if you absolutely despise a character - if you just want to hiss at them 'you are a villain'. Olivia Tolich is a true genius in creating a character that I thoroughly disliked from the moment I met her until just about the last page. I think this is what made the book so engaging because I just wanted to grab up the main character and whisk her away from the situation she had managed to immerse herself in for so long.
I love a good Australian story - it is fun to have that familarity within the settings. Olivia Tolich has created a book that should absolutely be added to everyone's TBR pile if you like a romcom with a splash of drama and an extra helping of human foibles. Gertie is my new best friend.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“Words can’t be just words when his eyes look like that.”
Well that was fun! I loved it!
I knew I was going to as soon as I read the note that arrived with the book, where the author said that she wrote this book for the best friend of the leading lady and was giving her the adventure she deserves.
Well, you nailed it Olivia! Gertie had the best adventure and I just loved it all!!! I didn’t want it to end.
Gertie was always there for Bee in every sense, she went above and beyond. But thank goodness for Arthur, Gertie started looking at her life, her choices and her friendships. I was so happy and was cheering for Gertie every step of the way.
Arthur was my favourite character. The absolute sweetest. I loved their interactions, and how good he made Gertie feel. But I mostly loved how he gave Gertie the confidence to stand up for herself. He believed in her.
There were some characters that made me want to scream, such as Bee, agh she was so self absorbed!! But I actually don’t mind having some unlikable characters in a book!
All in all, a wonderful story about friendships, real love and putting yourself first. Highly recommend!
Thank you so much @text_publishing for sending me an early copy.
Well that was fun! I loved it!
I knew I was going to as soon as I read the note that arrived with the book, where the author said that she wrote this book for the best friend of the leading lady and was giving her the adventure she deserves.
Well, you nailed it Olivia! Gertie had the best adventure and I just loved it all!!! I didn’t want it to end.
Gertie was always there for Bee in every sense, she went above and beyond. But thank goodness for Arthur, Gertie started looking at her life, her choices and her friendships. I was so happy and was cheering for Gertie every step of the way.
Arthur was my favourite character. The absolute sweetest. I loved their interactions, and how good he made Gertie feel. But I mostly loved how he gave Gertie the confidence to stand up for herself. He believed in her.
There were some characters that made me want to scream, such as Bee, agh she was so self absorbed!! But I actually don’t mind having some unlikable characters in a book!
All in all, a wonderful story about friendships, real love and putting yourself first. Highly recommend!
Thank you so much @text_publishing for sending me an early copy.
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