No Strings Attached

by Christy McKellen

Travel to Japan for second chances and sushi in this BRAND NEW spicy rom-com for fans of Meghan Quinn and Hannah Grace 💖🍣✨ A revenge vacation with her hot billionaire ex-fling? Upgrade accepted ✅

Chloe Dasher has spent years saving for the honeymoon of her dreams—private hot springs, silk kimonos, and five-star room service in Kyoto. The wedding? A disaster. The groom? Gone. But she’s not giving up the trip she worked so hard for… even if she has to take it solo, with a broken heart.

What she doesn’t expect at the world's most luxurious hotel? Kit —her once-upon-a-time college fling turned maddeningly handsome, self-made billionaire—checking into the same romantic resort, also nursing a freshly broken engagement.

Neither expected a trip down memory lane with the one that got away, but old sparks ignite instantly…. So why not have a little fun and agree to enjoy a week-long holiday fling with a side order of payback on their exes! The only rule - keeping their hearts out of it. Chloe and Kit are absolutely not looking for love. Yet sometimes, the road to happily ever after starts with a no strings fling in paradise.



🌶️ No strings fling

🌶️ Second chance romance

🌶️ The one that got away

🌶️ Healing a heartbreak

🌶️ Forced proximity

🌶️ Billionaire MMC

🌶️ Jilted at the altar

🌶️ Opposites attract

🌶️ Spicy

A wish you were here romance set in Japan, perfect for fans of Tessa Bailey, Meghan Quinn and Hannah Grace!

Praise for Christy

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I just loved it - the perfect amount of heart, heat and humour in this pacy, racy romance read’ Sandy Barker

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'There is no one like Christy McKellen for fun, flirty and sexy romance with a lot of heart and deep emotional insight' Jessica Gilmore

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'It’s sexy, laugh-out-loud funny, and just the right dose of heartfelt moments. Definitely recommend!💕' Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Everything a good book should be!' Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'This book ticked every box for me on what I like in a romance' Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'LOOOOVE THIS BOOK! It's so funny and the plot and storyline keep you in it. Would highly recommend' Reader Review

Genres: Romance

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication January 23, 2026

About the author

Formerly a Video and Radio Producer, Christy now spends her time writing provocative, passionate, seductive romance. When she’s not writing, she can be found enjoying life with her husband and three children, walking for pleasure and researching other people’s deepest secrets and desires.

You can find out more about her books at www.christymckellen.com

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

After his fiancée breaks up with him, self-made billionaire Kit decides to go on his honeymoon to Kyoto anyway. There’s no point in not taking advantage of some time off to relax. But things get a little complicated when his ex from college, Chloe, is also staying at the hotel he’s at. It shouldn’t be a problem, but she looks just as good as she did in college, and Kit’s heart is not listening to reason.

Chloe has been saving up for the honeymoon of her dreams. The only problem is that she is the only one going since her groom decided to break things off. She’ll use the time to herself to forget about him and explore the city she’s always wanted to see. But fate has other plans for her, and it’s in the shape of a handsome guy whom she never thought she’d ever see again.

So much for trying to finish this before 2025 ended. 😅 That’s what I get for thinking I can try to squeeze in reading time during the holidays. 😂 Anyways, this book was all right. I liked how it was short, the writing was pretty good, and some of the humor did its job and made me chuckle to myself. I’ve read another book by this author, I Do, For Now, and I think it was better than this one. This one seemed…unnecessary? I honestly don’t know how I feel about the two characters knowing each other beforehand. I think I would have liked the story better if they didn’t and they kept running into each other because of, you know, fate or whatever, and they get to know each other because of their shared circumstances, and then fall in love. But I guess that would make the book longer, so to save time, having the two MCs be old exes helps with keeping the story short and sweet. I get it. 🤭

I wasn’t a big fan of the romance. Don’t get me wrong–I didn’t hate it, and I was pretty happy with the ending, but this just wasn’t my cup of tea. Maybe because it was short and lacked a lot of character and plot development that full-length novels have? 🤷‍♀ If so, then that’s all on me because I knew this was a novella and tried to fully prepare myself for this kind of story. Obviously, it didn’t work, lol! 😂

But at least the characters were okay! Sure, they lacked some chemistry, but at least they weren’t horrible human beings. 😅 I mean, I don’t think it was necessary for Kit to be a billionaire, but I happen to like the whole billionaire trope, so I didn’t mind it. ☺

All in all, this was an okay read, and if you are looking for a short, spicy read, then this book is for you! 💜

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.

❗Content Warnings❗
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes

[Laura❄️📚 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher Boldwood Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I love second chance romance books and I really enjoyed this one. Imagine meeting your ex in the place you were supposed to be on honeymoon after you have both been jilted at the alter (by different people of course not each other), I can’t imagine anything more awkward but Chloe and Kitt had plenty of chemistry and soon fell back in comfortable companionship. I really enjoyed this book it was a fun quick read, had plenty of laugh out loud moments and a good sprinkle of will they won’t they. I liked both Chloe and Kitt, they were very compatible and I wanted to bang both their heads together for being so dense. No strings fun never stays that way, they were bound to catch feelings, despite this being a short book it didn’t feel rushed. This is the first book I’ve read of the authors but I’m thinking of reading more after this one as I loved the way this book was written. Overall a really satisfying enjoyable read.

[Kelsey S · Rating 3 out of 5]

▹TL;DR Review: A spicy romance between two exes who recently found themselves jilted in Japan. For fans of Portia Macintosh and Vi Keeland’s romance books.

▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
▹Format: 📱 eReader
Thank you to NetGalley and BoldwoodBooks for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book. These opinions are my own.
─────────────────────────

○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○

– About: This second-chance, exes with benefits is an easy, breezy, spicy romance for when you’re looking to escape. Chloe and Kit both find themselves on their respective honeymoons in Kyoto. The catch? Both recently have also found themselves without their fiancées, one being jilted on their wedding day, the other given slightly more notice. The other catch? They actually used to “date” each other 5 years ago. So in an effort to get over their exes, they plan on a “no strings attached” vacation hookup. But the more time they spend together, the more attached the strings feel.
– FMC: Chloe Dasher. Recently left at the alter by her groom who left her for another man. Works for charity and has aspirations for green spaces across the UK. Looking for love.
– MMC: Kit Charleston. Had his engagement recently broken off by his model ex. Lacking motivation due to selling his idea for millions.
– Location: Kyoto and London
– POV: Dual first-person
– Spice: 3-4 open-door explicit spicy scenes
– Tropes: exes with benefits, no-strings-attached agreement, forced proximity, billionaire MMC, charitable FMC, he falls first, second chance-ish
– Content warning: being left for someone else (both MCs), working through past relationship hurts, emotionally guarded MMC
– Representation: nothing noteworthy

─────────────────────────

↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12

Now Playing: Staying by Lizzie McAlpine

╰┈➤ ❝Now I’m laying in bed with you and you’re falling asleep; how can you look so peaceful when you know I’m gonna leave?❞

─────────────────────────

★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★

➼ Books by Portia Macintosh and Jilted by Vi Keeland
➼ Shows like Emily in Paris (but not the friendship part, just the romance in a foreign land part), No Strings Attached, and Friends with Benefits
➼ Romances set while the MCs are on vacation and do some mild sight-seeing

─────────────────────────

⍟»This or That«⍟

Character Driven———✧————————Plot Driven
Fast Burn—————✧——————Slow Burn
Sweet———————✧————Spicy
Light/Fluffy———✧————————Heavy/Emotional

─────────────────────────

🎯 My Thoughts:

What worked for me was how fun and light this book was. Even when it had depth, it wasn’t overly emotional or hung up on a specific trope. I love a romance that involves travel (mostly so I can write down an itinerary to use for my own adventures ☺) and this had the beautiful setting of Kyoto, Japan. While most of it was in a hotel…it had some great settings and made me want to go to Japan and fall in love.

What lost me a bit was that despite this being so short, the bulk of the book was discussions between the main characters on should they/shouldn’t they. I wish the pacing allowed for a little more room in the last 1/3 to flesh out the inciting incident.

Would I Recommend?: Maybe to yes. If you like the rom-com-y vibes with just a hint of emotional depth, this is a fun and quick read. If you are looking for healing or characters on a deep journey, you may want to save this for another time.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book review: No Strings Attached by Christy McKellen.
Boldwood Books, with a huge thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.

There is something deeply satisfying about a romance novel that knows exactly what it wants to be, and No Strings Attached leans into its promise with confidence, charm, and a wink. From the first chapter, I felt completely settled into this story of heartbreak, second chances, and the kind of vacation most of us would absolutely still take even if the groom vanished. Chloe arrives in Japan bruised but determined, and honestly, I adored her for refusing to let a cancelled wedding steal the trip she worked so hard for. That decision alone sets the tone for a heroine who is practical, funny, and emotionally worn in a very relatable way.

Then there’s Kit. The college fling turned billionaire ex who shows up at the same luxury resort like the universe is stirring the pot on purpose. Their reunion felt natural rather than gimmicky, helped along by shared history and unresolved chemistry that never really cooled off. I enjoyed how McKellen doesn’t waste time pretending these two are strangers. They know each other. They’ve already crossed lines. That familiarity adds warmth and humor to every interaction, especially as they negotiate their “no strings” agreement with about as much success as you’d expect.

The Japan setting adds a dreamy layer to the story. Kyoto’s elegance, the indulgent hotel, the sense of being far away from real life all heighten the emotional stakes. This book understands the fantasy of travel romance. Everything feels slightly suspended in time, which makes it believable that two people licking their wounds might decide to make questionable but delightful choices. The forced proximity works beautifully here, and the story makes good use of quiet moments just as much as the spicy ones.

What stood out most for me was the emotional honesty beneath the flirtation. Chloe and Kit are both carrying the weight of failed engagements, and while the tone stays light, those experiences aren’t brushed aside. There’s a tenderness in how they recognize each other’s pain without wallowing in it. One line that perfectly captures the heart of this book is, “Sometimes the bravest thing isn’t starting over, it’s admitting you never really let go.” That sentiment lingers long after the final page.

Yes, this is a shorter romance, and I did find myself wishing for a few more chapters, especially toward the end. Some moments move quickly, and I wouldn’t have complained about extra breathing room to stretch the emotional payoff. Still, for what it sets out to do, this story succeeds. It’s witty, spicy, escapist, and comforting in the way a good rom-com should be. It doesn’t overcomplicate itself or chase unnecessary twists. It simply delivers a satisfying second chance romance with a gorgeous backdrop and characters who are easy to root for.

I finished No Strings Attached feeling relaxed, entertained, and quietly hopeful, which is exactly what I want from this kind of read. If you enjoy vacation romances, rekindled love, and stories about finding your footing after heartbreak, this one is well worth packing in your carry-on.

Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

#NoStringsAttached #ChristyMcKellen #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #RomanceBookReview #SecondChanceRomance #VacationRomance #SpicyRomCom #Bookstagram #ARCReview

[Kyra · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.25⭐

LIKED:
- I think having both the FMC and the MMC being jilted lovers both from an interpersonal (left at the altar/on their honeymoon alone) and an intrapersonal (they previously dated) aspect was an intriguing use of layered character work.
- The hotel itself, despite being pretty western gentrification-y, felt pretty immersive. Especially since the characters spend so much time there for some reason.
- I like this cover quite a bit. The saturated colors just really works. I think there’s also something about the composition that I think is also just really solid. The only issue is that the dude’s mouth is way too big, good god.

LAMENTED:
- Why is this book only 200-something pages? It felt like it both wanted more time and didn’t know what to do with the time it had. It was not really a novella but also not really a novel.
- A lot of the draw of this book is the setting of Kyoto but we spend 90% of this book inside a fictional, very western hotel. I’ll be honest, i kind of picked up this book to see just how it would depict Japan (as someone who used to live there, it’s like a morbid fascination of mine because so much of the time folks just entirely miss the mark). But we only get, what, one scene to see the characters actually exploring? And the FMC talks about how important it is for her to travel? It was so odd.
- Also, what purpose does it serve for this man to be a literal billionaire? He could be wealthy, sure, but a billionaire was just absurd.
- Unfortunately the characters, despite having known each other for a decade or whatever have so little chemistry. I think it honestly would have been more interesting for these two characters specifically to just have met each other as two jilted lovers on the same flight to Japan and then ending up in the same hotel, I don’t know.
- This title is so nothing. Especially with there being a movie with the title and this book having literally nothing to do with strings, friends with benefits, or the like. It just felt really uninspired. .

LONGED FOR:
- More chemistry between the FMC and MMC
- More of them exploring their surroundings and not just sitting in their hotel.
- The book to make a decision between being a novella and being a novel.


(How Long) Do I Think They’ll Stay Together? : couple months, honestly.

Will I read the next one? : No.

*Thank you to Boldwood Books & NetGalley for providing this ARC!


Similar Books :
- 'Forget Me Not' by Julie Soto
- 'Never Over' by Clare Gilmore
- 'Heart Strings' by Ivy Fairbanks
- 'Not Safe for Work' by Nisha J. Tuli
- 'It's Different This Time' by Joss Richard

[MaReads Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, steamy, second-chance romance that hits fast and hard. 160 pages. 16 chapters. Two exes stuck on the same hotel long enough to realise maybe unfinished business is worth finishing.

3,5 ⭐️/5 — 3🌶️/5 (3 chapitre/16)

💖 Second chance
⚡️ Forced proximity
❤️ He falls first
🐶 Golden retriever MMC
🔥 Blunt FMC

I actually enjoyed this a lot, it’s short, direct, and doesn’t waste time. Exes reunited by coincidence, they fall back into bed, panic, deny their feelings, and finally realise they still want each other.
It gives exactly what it promises.

✨ What Worked for Me

-The alternating POV inside chapters : For such a short book, switching between Kit and Chloe multiple times in a scene kept things balanced and emotionally engaging.
-Kit’s character arc surprised me : In the first chapters, I thought he was a snobby, materialistic jerk…but the more we read, the more he gives golden retriever energy. He is so obviously the one who falls first, and it’s adorable.
-Chloe? Loved her from page one. Direct, self-aware, and mature, especially when she apologises for her own outbursts. She owns her flaws and it makes her instantly likeable.

😕 What Didn’t Fully Work
Because it’s only 160 pages, some things lack space:
-I wanted more tension before they fell back into each other’s arms.
Things resolve almost too quickly, a few more push-pull moments would have elevated the emotional payoff.
-It’s very insular. The story is extremely centered on them. Kit keeps talking about his friends, but we never actually see them (aside from a couple messages).
A bit more worldbuilding or supporting cast would have made it richer.
-A tiny bit of repetition in how they reflect on things.
At one point I felt like they were experiencing the same emotional beats, but Kit’s open obsession and Chloe’s resistance eventually broke that cycle.

This isn’t a deep or layered romance but it does exactly what a short second-chance novella should do: give you sparks, feelings, and a satisfying ending.
It could have been a 5⭐ for me with:
-more tension pre-reunion
-more side characters / setting detail

…but for what it is, it was fun, sweet, and left me smiling.
A solid time if you want something short, emotional and romantic.

Thank you Christy MacKellen, Boldwood Books and Net Galley for sending me this ARC in exchange of an honest review.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was very much looking forward to reading this book - I spent 5 days in Kyoto in 2025 and could not wait to read a second chance romance that was taking place in this beautiful location.

The book had a bit of a slow start. I didn't really like the first person narrative that kept switching back and forth and I had a huge issue with the "billionaire." I wish he had just been a successful guy vs a billionaire - his constant first person "I am a billionaire" thoughts were jarring and I kept thinking, that a billionaire wouldn't spend every other thought reminding themselves they were a billionaire. And guess what, non billionaires fly first class for 14 hour flights and take car services too - so I didn't feel I needed the "I am a billionaire" so this is why I do this explanation for every detail. 14 hours in coach is BRUTAL - if you can swing it, you're going to fly business or first.

Kit (the billionaire) and Chloe were both taking separate trips to Kyoto for their honeymoons for weddings that did not happen. They ran into each other in the lobby of the hotel on their first day - and they knew each other. They had been in a relationship in Uni when Chloe decided she wanted something more serious and ended up moving on.

At first, I thought maybe the book would have been better had they not previously known each other, but later I thought it was helpful. The book was fairly short, and it made me buy into their connection quickly because they already knew each other. Once they started interacting, the book flowed a lot better and I started to really enjoy it.

The scenes in Kyoto were great. They visited the Gold Pavillion (although they called it by the official Japanese temple name), the Bamboo jungle, went on a river cruise and took a samurai lesson. I did all of these things as well. They missed some fun touristy things, but they were otherwise occupied with spicey side adventures, so I could believe that.

Overall, I did end up liking the story. If you struggle with the beginning, keep going, it picks up quickly and becomes quite an enjoyable read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Christy McKellen is a new to me author and I will definitely check out some of her other books.

[Demi Snell · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
Tropes: second chance romance, forced proximity, holiday fling, billionaire MMC, jilted FMC, opposites attract, the one that got away, dual POV

“This is the last thing I need. I’m in mourning for my last relationship and I don’t need the complication of my inappropriate age-old lust for Kit to add to my torment.” - Chloe

“The last thing I’d expected, when I decided to come here to get some space from my failed relationship with Katya, was to end up having cravings for an ex from years ago instead. But Chloe’s presence here has lit a fire inside me.” - Kit

This was quick and fun romance set in Japan with two old lovers. Kit and Chloe found themselves in Japan at the same high end resort with plans to escape after canceled weddings. The last thing they were expecting while running away from their problems was running into each other. Kit and Chloe had a hot and intense relationship while at university together 5 years ago and had not seen each other since they split. (A split they never really got over).

Now they’re both at the resort together brokenhearted but the chemistry and spark they once shared was still there. They decided to have a no strings attached fling while on holiday because sticking to their plans of being there alone was nowhere near as good as rekindling what they used to have. And getting into bed with each other sounded a lot more fun than being miserable; except the bedroom fun melded in to daytime adventures and more time spent together. Which made them both realize that maybe five years ago they both made a mistake ending things that now they have the opportunity to fix.

They helped each other overcome their failed relationship and I adored the journey they went on together. They rekindled more than just the spark in the bedroom and basically picked up right where they left off. Now years later and more mature they weren’t going to let their second chance at love slip away. Because a mutual heartbreak led them to exactly where fate wanted them to be to come back together.

This had great character development and I absolutely loved the setting of the book. I’ve always wanted to travel to Japan and this had phenomenal imagery.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 2 out of 5]

No Strings Attached by Christie McKellen, when Chloe‘s fiancé calls off the wedding she proceeds with the honeymoon as it is her dream vacation a trip to Japan. When she sees her ex kit at the same hotel she’s staying at she is amazed by that he is now a billionaire still handsome and she soon learned he is there heartbroken as well. it seems his model girlfriend Natasha has no interest in marriage and so now there they both are in Japan heartbroken and trying to stop their self from staring at the other. They soon however go from staring at each other to spending time together but unfortunately the vacation doesn’t end and happily ever after and back in London Chloe is starting to regret it. Can she and kid find their way back to each other? OK that’s the best summary you’re going to get this is my take on no strings attached for one thing when they were eating dinner and she told him he should give away all of his billions of dollars to help the unfortunate I was like… Yeah OK and then we get to the end which she was at the Koi pond with the cherry trees I really was hoping she would break down and call him but then the ending happened he said what he said and I was like that that would never happen in real life… No freaking way I mean that’s just ridiculous. I’m not a big fan of Second Chance romances but this one was set in Japan a country I love and I couldn’t wait to read it and it was OK I found it interesting it went fast but there were many things in the book I found myself rolling my eyes at. I mean what a dreamer a billionaire just gives all his money away I get that you should help nonprofits like he did with the trees and help the homeless etc but to give it all away because being a billionaire and his words is going to ruin him that’s not just ridiculous that’s stupid. It totally made me hate the book and I don’t ever use the word hate lightly. So ridiculous. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,

[Emma Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

💖 Blurb-
Travel to Japan for second chances and sushi in this BRAND NEW spicy rom-com for fans of Meghan Quinn and Hannah Grace 💖🍣✨ A revenge vacation with her hot billionaire ex-fling? Upgrade accepted ✅
Chloe Dasher has spent years saving for the honeymoon of her dreams—private hot springs, silk kimonos, and five-star room service in Kyoto. The wedding? A disaster. The groom? Gone. But she’s not giving up the trip she worked so hard for… even if she has to take it solo, with a broken heart.
What she doesn’t expect at the world's most luxurious hotel? Kit —her once-upon-a-time college fling turned maddeningly handsome, self-made billionaire—checking into the same romantic resort, also nursing a freshly broken engagement.
Neither expected a trip down memory lane with the one that got away, but old sparks ignite instantly…. So why not have a little fun and agree to enjoy a week-long holiday fling with a side order of payback on their exes! The only rule - keeping their hearts out of it. Chloe and Kit are absolutely not looking for love. Yet sometimes, the road to happily ever after starts with a no strings fling in paradise.
💜 Review -
This was such a cute and easy to follow read. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. There was plenty of content to keep me interested and entertained. I loved the place settings in the story and there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author Christy McKellen for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Janne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Japan is very popular at the moment (I cannot open TikTok without seeing dozens of influencers showing me the grape ice cream or the ramen places) so I can see how this book intentionally or not will attract quite a lot of people. The same was for me, I’m planning my own trip and was enthusiastic about the setting. Japan would be such a beautiful setting for a romance.

Sadly, Japan felt more like a gimmick than a proper setting. So much time is spent in the hotel and some quite important stuff happens outside of Japan. This could be anywhere in the world and most of the story would be the same. It’s kind of an ick that I have, when you choose a setting this deliberately, you should make full use of it.

The story itself was cute, the “rush” can be explained by the fact that the two main characters know each other and don’t need to get to know each other. They continued right where they left off, and that was fun. Reading how Kit and Chloe slowly realize that they have feelings for each other while feeling like they shouldn’t because of their exes felt somehow relatable.

The one thing I don’t get is the conclusion Chloe makes about Kit at the end (for the sake of spoilers, I will not write what it’s about). It came out of the blue and made zero sense to me, which made the end feel forced.

All in all, the story is short and sweet, but not that special. If you really like Japan or just want a short romance that you don’t need to think a lot for you to understand what’s happening, than I’d recommend the book. Just don’t expect a masterpiece.

Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing the arc!

[Tanisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a book lover for as long as I can remember. Romance has always been my go-to genre, and lately I have really fallen in love with second chance romances. There is something so exciting about watching two characters reconnect, figure out what went wrong the first time, and slowly find their way back to each other. Because of that, and because I adored "The Paradise Hook Up" and "I Do, For Now," I could not wait to read this book. It absolutely lived up to my expectations.

One of the things I loved most is that the story is told in first person with alternating perspectives. That format always helps me connect with characters more deeply, and it made their emotional journey even more enjoyable to follow. I really liked the way the main characters ended up crossing paths again. It felt natural, meaningful, and full of that spark you hope for in a second chance story. And as someone who has always dreamed of visiting Japan, this book just made that dream even stronger. The setting added such a beautiful touch to the story.

All in all, I really enjoyed this book. My only complaint is that I wish it had been longer. I also would have loved an epilogue to wrap things up even more fully because I was not ready to say goodbye to these characters. There are also two side characters connected to the MMC (who are just mentioned) who caught my attention right away, and I would happily read a whole book about each of them.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Katie]

No Strings Attached is a light, flirty second-chance romance set against the beautiful backdrop of Kyoto. Chloe, newly dumped just before her wedding, decides to take her dream honeymoon alone—only to run into Kit, a former college fling with his own heartbreak and plenty of baggage. What starts as a no-strings vacation arrangement quickly turns into something more as old feelings resurface.

I enjoyed that Chloe and Kit already had a history; their connection didn’t feel random, and their banter and chemistry were strong from the start. The Japan setting added a lovely, escapist atmosphere, and I appreciated watching their relationship shift from purely physical to something more emotional as they talked, explored, and opened up about past disappointments.

That said, the setup felt a bit unrealistic (both being dumped right before their weddings and randomly ending up at the same luxury hotel in Japan 😅), and the story’s shorter length made some parts feel rushed. The romance also leaned very open-door, with more spice than I personally prefer, which occasionally pulled me out of the story.

Overall, this was a fine, easy, one-day read—sweet, scenic, and escapist, even if it didn’t fully win me over. A good pick if you’re in the mood for a fast, spicy travel romance with second-chance vibes.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Aga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC, out January 23rd.

No Strings Attached is a sweet, reflective story about second chances, revisiting the past, and personal growth. Kit and Chloe dated back in university, and their breakup was mutual—right person, wrong timing, different priorities. Years later, they both end up in Japan, each nursing the emotional fallout of failed engagements, and slowly gravitate back toward one another, hoping this time might be different.

While the premise is charming, a few things didn’t fully land for me. Kit’s repeated mentions of being a billionaire quickly crossed from character trait into cringe territory. The Tokyo setting also felt underused-despite being such a rich backdrop, around 80% of the story takes place inside a hotel, which was a missed opportunity. The book sits in an awkward middle ground: too long to be a novella, too short to be a fully developed novel. As a result, some side characters add little to the story, and both main characters could have benefited from more depth.

Personally, I would have loved a longer version with more fully developed characters and perhaps a dual timeline exploring both their university relationship and the present-day reconnection.

That said, this is still a gentle, hopeful story about love getting a second chance. I enjoyed the emotional core, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from this author.

3.5 stars rounded to 4

[Joanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars for me.

When Chloe saw her ex boyfriend Kit in Japan she could not believe the twisted fate.Chloe was supposed to be now in Kyoto on her honeymoon,but the groom left her on her wedding day,so now she's here alone to mend her broken heart.Kit was also surprised,he come to Japan to check a friend hotel,and regroup after his fiancee left him for an ex-boyfriend.Their college fling was a past,but they did had a great chemistry,so maybe together they can have a great sex,and get revenge on their exes.But it may not be easy,as this no strings attached deal gets more difficult,as the feelings they had for each other in the past never really go away,and this casual fling may get more complicated.

Will they keep this deal only for the holiday,or will they try and give each other chance again?

It was quick and steamy novel that I really enjoyed.At the beginning I found Kit little dismisive of their past relationship,and was not sure will I like him.Kit proved me wrong,the way he matured and was there for Chloe was really sweet,and he win me in the end.Chemistry between Chloe and Kit was tension filled,the bedroom adventures were HOT,and I liked the banter and fun they have together.This book leave me with a warm feeling,my second one by this author,and she didn't dissapoint.

If you looking for second chances spicy romance I would recommend this book,it was quick and fun read.
Thank you netgalley and Boldwood Books publisher for arc,my review is honest and my own.

[Lovelette · Rating 4 out of 5]

✈️ Two heartbreaks, one chance encounter in Japan… and suddenly the one that got away isn’t so far away anymore.

📖 No Strings Attached by Christy McKellen
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶
Second chance romance

Tropes:
🔁 Second chance
💰 Billionaire MMC
🗾 Japan travels
🏨 Forced proximity
🔥 Vacation fling
💘 The one that got away

Chloe and Kit were supposed to marry other people—until both were dumped by their fiancés before the wedding. Heartbroken and needing distance from their messy lives, they each take a solo trip to Japan… only to run into each other after breaking up years ago. And somehow, despite everything, being together feels easy again—healing, even.

This story is all about moving forward after heartbreak and understanding why past relationships failed. Chloe and Kit finally see what they could never get right before, and how they now complement each other in all the ways that matter. It tugged at my heart.

Chloe is stubborn as ever—cute in the beginning, a little frustrating when she keeps denying her feelings—but still relatable. Kit may act like an asshole at times, but he shows up for her when she needs him, and that made me soft for him.

A sweet, reflective second chance romance set against the beauty of Japan. I enjoyed it.

Thank you Christy McKellen and NetGalley for this ARC.

[CT · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Strings Attached by Christy McKellen is a fun, emotionally satisfying romance that delivers exactly what it promises—and then sneaks in a little extra heart.

McKellen excels at writing characters who feel real, messy, and guarded in very human ways. What starts as a clearly defined, “no feelings allowed” arrangement quickly becomes something much more complicated, and watching those emotional walls crack is where this book truly shines. The chemistry is undeniable, the banter is sharp without being overdone, and the emotional beats land in a way that feels earned rather than rushed.

I especially appreciated how the story explored vulnerability and the fear of wanting more. The romance builds naturally, balancing heat with emotional depth, and the character growth feels authentic on both sides. If you love romances where intentions are clear but feelings refuse to cooperate, this one is going to hit just right.

A charming, sexy, and heartfelt read that fans of contemporary romance will happily devour.

Tropes you’ll find inside:
• No-strings-attached romance
• Friends with benefits
• Emotional slow burn
• Guarded hearts
• Chemistry-driven romance
• Catching feelings

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. This was a delight to read, and I’ll definitely be picking up more from Christy McKellen!

[Page Escapes by J · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Strings Attached is one of those romances that proves “casual” is rarely ever simple.

At its core, this is a story about two people who agree to keep things uncomplicated — no labels, no future planning, no emotional risk. But as their connection deepens, it becomes clear that rules are far easier to make than they are to follow.

Christy McKellan does a wonderful job balancing playful chemistry with emotional realism. The relationship develops organically, and the shift from physical attraction to something more meaningful feels earned rather than rushed. I especially appreciated how the characters’ fears around attachment and commitment were explored with nuance instead of clichés.

There’s a softness to this book that really stood out to me. Even during the lighter moments, there’s an underlying sense of emotional tension — the kind that makes you keep turning pages because you know the characters are headed somewhere they’re afraid to go.

Overall, this was an engaging, heartfelt romance that delivered on chemistry, character growth, and emotional payoff. A lovely read for anyone who enjoys friends-with-benefits energy, slow emotional unraveling, and romance that feels both fun and sincere.

[LM · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Strings Attached by Christy McKellen is a charming second-chance romance about two people whose lives take an unexpected turn just before their weddings.

Chloe Dasher’s fiancé leaves her for a man, while Kit Charleston’s fiancé leaves her for another billionaire with better connections. Despite their heartbreak, both decide to go ahead with their honeymoons—separately—to Kyoto. Fate, however, has other plans. They end up staying at the same hotel and quickly realize they already know each other…very well. They dated in college and shared undeniable chemistry back then—and it hasn’t faded.

As they keep running into each other, they decide to spend time together, rediscovering the easy connection they once had. But both are freshly dumped and carrying unresolved baggage, making the idea of starting something new complicated. Feelings resurface quickly, forcing them to confront whether a second chance is truly possible.

This is a shorter novel (209 pages) and a perfect quick read. I loved the serendipity of Kit and Chloe’s reunion and the beautiful Kyoto setting, which added an extra layer of beauty to their story.

Thank you to Christy McKellen, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Natalie Intihar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a Christy McKellen holiday romance, and No Strings Attached is a perfect example of this! The relationship dynamic between Chloe and Kit is both old and new: the epitome of a second chance story. Watching them explore Japan and reconnect was such a delight to experience.

Chloe and Kit have such a unique experience during their reconnection. I can only imagine what it’s like to run into your ex while going on the trip that was meant to be your honeymoon with someone else. It truly is like fate brought Chloe and Kit back together after all their time apart, and it was wonderful to watch them find themselves and their love again.

As always, this Christy McKellen book was a complete treat. I felt like I was in Japan going on adventures with Chloe and Kit, and while their trip had to end eventually, the warm feelings from reading No Strings Attached never did. This book was an easy read and a total delight from start to finish!

Thank you to Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this book! I received a free advance copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[krissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A second-chance romance where Chloe and Kit meet in Kyoto after their failed weddings and become a short-term fling to get over their exes. It’s actually a solid premise, and using Kyoto in spring as the setting works well — it reinforces the idea of escape and new beginnings. As someone who has visited the place, it was easy for me to visualize the scenes.

However, I’m not sure if it was the writing or the pacing, but I couldn’t fully immerse myself in the story or feel convinced that these characters would actually last in the long run. Even with the dual POV, the chemistry didn’t quite land for me — not the physical chemistry, because they were clearly sexually compatible, but the emotional connection felt lacking. There were a good number of spicy scenes, but they only emphasized that their relationship was driven more by lust than by genuine emotional depth.

This might work well for readers who enjoy spicy romance, but for those who want to really experience the emotional weight of second chances, I found this lacking.

Thank you Cristy McKellen and Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to read this in advance.

[Lorraine Berry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This second‑chance romance from Christy McKellen (a new‑to‑me author) is a quick and easy read. I enjoyed the dual POV, although Kit comes across as being entitled, a bit of a man-ho, and not particularly likeable.

The characters repeatedly reference how incredible their past sexual chemistry was, and after a while it starts to feel repetitive. Beyond the physical connection, I didn’t feel much emotional chemistry between them—they didn’t seem to genuinely like or understand each other, just the idea of their past passion. The constant back‑and‑forth over whether they should rekindle things also became a little tiresome. I’m not entirely convinced this is a relationship that would go the distance.

On the positive side, the Kyoto, Japan setting is beautifully described and genuinely made me want to visit.

Overall, if you enjoy second‑chance, vacation romances with a bit of spice—or stories about finding your footing after being jilted—this one is worth a read.

Many thanks to Boldwood Books for the pre‑approved copy and to NetGalley for the early access. The book is available January 23, 2026.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

That's what I call a great book!

The book is fun, captivating and sexy. I loved Chloe and Kit and, through the pages, I was able to feel their love grow. I also really enjoyed that 95% of the story happens in Japan; it's nice to see a different background.

However, I have some things that bothered me a little bit:

1. I feel that Kit didn't have a lot of personality - and that is something that even he acknowledge. I mean, he is like Ken: Ken's life is all about Barbie and the beach. Kit's life is all about being rich and sex. And I feel this for Kit, because Chloe is always talking about things about him and his family, but it's all on the surface.

2. The end was very very rushed. For example, I'd love to see the conversation between Kit and his ex, but that didn't happen, everything that we know about is the two lines senteces said by Kit. Yes, I know that it is a short storie, but stil...

3.I missed an interaction between the main characters and the outside world, specialy with Chloe.

With all that said, thank you so much Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the the arc! I really apreciated.

[Joni · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎀 Rating: 4 ⭐️
🎀 Review: I really enjoyed this book! The story immediately drew me in with its dual POV. The back-and-forth between characters was seamless and not at all repetitive, which I sometimes feel like they can be. It really connected them. The setting in Japan was amazing! The culture, food, nature, … It made me want to book a trip there! Another thing I really appreciated was the mental health awareness and representation in this romance book. The banter was amazing and the FMC’s sarcasm had me laughing more than once. The chemistry between the leads was so real, whereas in other books it can feel like it’s purely physical attraction, I really felt the genuine emotional connection. The book was also a real page-turner. I read it in 2 days, reading well past midnight, and then waking up still half-asleep, reaching for my Kindle in the morning. Despite only being about 200 pages, the story managed to make me cry at the end. The conclusion was absolutely beautiful and I just had to highlight some of the quotes. A real must-read if you’re looking for a shorter but still deeply emotional romance.
Thank you to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and the author for this ARC.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.7


Chloe llega a Japón decidida a recuperarse después de que su boda se cancelara a última hora. Su plan es simple: disfrutar del viaje que soñó durante años, reconectar consigo misma y probar que puede levantarse sin depender de nadie. Lo que no esperaba era encontrarse con Kit Charleston, el hombre que formó parte de su pasado más impulsivo y que ahora también carga con su propia ruptura.

El reencuentro los toma por sorpresa, especialmente porque ambos buscan la misma cosa: paz, libertad y un poco de olvido. Sin embargo, la convivencia forzada en un hotel donde parecen cruzarse a cada momento despierta recuerdos, viejas tensiones y un deseo que nunca terminó de apagarse.

Mientras intentan reconstruirse por separado, descubren que quizá la única forma de avanzar es dejar de huir del otro.


__


Se trata más de su conexión y deseo sexual y casi no hay desarrollo en su relación.

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Firetruckmama · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.

“No Strings Attached” is by Christy McKellen. This is a rather light fluffy second-chances romance fast read. I know that’s a lot of adjectives! Chloe, dumped right before her wedding, meets her former college fling, Kit, after he was also dumped right before being married, at a hotel in Kyoto. The set up was a little too pat, but, hey, go with the flow on this one. Their no-strings attached holiday arrangement quickly turns into something more as their old banter and feelings surface. What I really liked was the setting in Japan - talk about enjoyable armchair travel. The relationship between the characters felt easy, which was great. A bit more spice than I like, but that’s just me. This is a rather short book - which is a pro for quick reading, but a con because some of the chapters felt rushed. Overall, I’d say that if you’re in the mood for some quick spice with a travel theme, pick up this book.

[Kaveesha Bandara · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Strings Attached is a book set in the charming, picturesque landscapes of Japan, making you feel as though you’re living there while reading. It follows Chloe Dasher, who goes on her dream honeymoon to Kyoto alone after her wedding falls apart—only to run into Kit, a former college fling and a recently single billionaire. Reunited at a luxurious resort, the two agree to a no-strings holiday romance. But as old chemistry resurfaces, their carefully set rules begin to blur.

The chemistry between the two main characters delivers many swoon-worthy moments, adding a deliciously spicy edge to the story. The dual POV ensures that the emotions of both main characters are fully conveyed to the reader. The author describes the beauty of Japan in an appealing way without hindering the flow of the story. What I loved most was how easy and enjoyable this book was to read.

I’d highly recommend this to readers who enjoy travel romances, second-chance sparks, and light yet steamy contemporary love stories.

[vlm · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Strings Attached is a fun, flirty, and escapist second-chance romance set against the lush, romantic backdrop of Kyoto. Chloe, fresh off a disastrous wedding, is determined to enjoy her dream honeymoon solo—only to run into Kit, the charming college fling who’s now a wildly successful billionaire with his own heartbreak baggage.

Their agreement to enjoy a no-strings vacation fling is packed with chemistry, humor, and just the right dose of emotional vulnerability. The Japan setting adds gorgeous atmosphere, and the playful revenge-on-the-exes angle keeps the story energetic and satisfying. Chloe and Kit have great banter, an undeniable spark, and a lovely slow shift from fun and casual to something much deeper.

A spicy, scenic, and feel-good rom-com perfect for readers who enjoy second chances, travel romance, and characters rediscovering what (and who) they really want.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Mamawattto4 Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC

3 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

No Strings Attached delivers a classic second chance romance, which is always a trope I enjoy especially when paired with a spicy billionaire MMC. Watching two characters reconnect while navigating unresolved feelings from their past is one of my favorite romance setups, and the added billionaire element definitely ups the appeal.

That said, while the story was enjoyable, it didn’t fully grab me the way I hoped it would. The chemistry and spice were there, and I appreciated those moments, but parts of the pacing felt uneven. I found myself wanting more depth from the characters and a stronger emotional payoff to really make their second chance hit harder.

Overall, this was a decent, easy read that will likely appeal to readers who love second chance romance with a wealthy, swoony MMC and some heat. It didn’t completely win me over, but it still delivered enough to make it a solid 3 star read for me.

[amaareads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kit as the billionaire MMC is fine, he's got the selfmade backstory and the broken engagement baggage but he felt a bit one-dimensional at times. I wanted more layers, more flaws, more reasons to understand why Chloe fell for him in the first place. Also the he romance felt a bit... surface-level? Like, we're TOLD they had this epic connection in college and we're TOLD the sparks are flying now, but I didn't always FEEL it deeply enough to believe this was the kind of love worth risking your heart for again. The emotional beats were there but they didn't always land with the impact I needed. The Japan setting is gorgeous and adds that escapist luxury vibe, but I wanted MORE of it woven into their reconnection. More cultural moments, more vulnerability in those hot springs, more of them actually TALKING about why they didn't work out the first time and what's different now.

Much thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the digital arc!