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Sweet Talk
Could late night’s saltiest host find her sweetest match?
Dr. Noa Hart lives her life unapologetically–from her PhD in ice cream science to the eccentric bumper sticker collection on her ancient VW Bug, Ringo Carr. She’s never hidden who she is, which is why she’s completely unprepared to fall for someone who’s spent her adult years doing the opposite.
Comedian Aarti Nair has clawed her way to the top as the first woman of color to host a legendary late-night talk show, but between balancing network expectations and hiding her true self, she’s drowning–until a nitrogen canister explosion changes everything.
When their off-the-charts chemistry pivots the show in a new direction, Aarti and Noa’s professional partnership becomes dangerously personal. With Aarti’s career hanging in the balance, can she risk everything for love? And can Noa protect her heart without compromising who she is–even if it means walking away?
Why you'll love this
🍦 Sapphic romcom with heat
🎤 Dual POV
🍦 HEA
🎤 Enemies to lovers
🍦 Forced proximity
🎤 Ice queen/cinnamon roll
🍦 Opposites attract
🎤 Celebrity x normie
🍦 TV & Hollywood
🎤 Food/culinary romance
🍦 First-gen Indian-American FMC
🎤 Trans sibling rep
🍦 Bi rep
🎤 Coming out journey
🍦 Family acceptance
Dr. Noa Hart lives her life unapologetically–from her PhD in ice cream science to the eccentric bumper sticker collection on her ancient VW Bug, Ringo Carr. She’s never hidden who she is, which is why she’s completely unprepared to fall for someone who’s spent her adult years doing the opposite.
Comedian Aarti Nair has clawed her way to the top as the first woman of color to host a legendary late-night talk show, but between balancing network expectations and hiding her true self, she’s drowning–until a nitrogen canister explosion changes everything.
When their off-the-charts chemistry pivots the show in a new direction, Aarti and Noa’s professional partnership becomes dangerously personal. With Aarti’s career hanging in the balance, can she risk everything for love? And can Noa protect her heart without compromising who she is–even if it means walking away?
Why you'll love this
🍦 Sapphic romcom with heat
🎤 Dual POV
🍦 HEA
🎤 Enemies to lovers
🍦 Forced proximity
🎤 Ice queen/cinnamon roll
🍦 Opposites attract
🎤 Celebrity x normie
🍦 TV & Hollywood
🎤 Food/culinary romance
🍦 First-gen Indian-American FMC
🎤 Trans sibling rep
🍦 Bi rep
🎤 Coming out journey
🍦 Family acceptance
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
30 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 26, 2025
Oh my goodness... I'm still giggling. What was that? It was sooo delightful and addictive. I can't get enough of the witty banter and want more. I didn't want the book to end and could have kept reading for hours, I loved it so much. Apart from that, I've found my new dream job: ice cream creator. I didn't know I had this interest, but the book showed me new possibilities. The idea of representing character traits as ice cream flavors was simply stunning.
I loved the two MCs!! I can't say which one I loved more: they were both stunning, cute, and so damn funny. The chemistry was palpable, and my laugh muscles physically felt it too. The build-up of tension was almost unstoppable, and the spice... it makes any ice cream melt.
The developments of Aarti and Noa were very profound, and I empathized and sympathized with them. The coming-out story was handled very carefully, thoughtfully, and beautifully. It just warmed my heart.
Please read this book! It's a great mix of banter, wit, ice cream, exceptionally good spice, big emotions, and it leaves you with a warm feeling afterwards. But be careful! Don't read it in the evening, or you'll be up all night because you won't be able to put the book down.
And now I need some ice cream...
I loved the two MCs!! I can't say which one I loved more: they were both stunning, cute, and so damn funny. The chemistry was palpable, and my laugh muscles physically felt it too. The build-up of tension was almost unstoppable, and the spice... it makes any ice cream melt.
The developments of Aarti and Noa were very profound, and I empathized and sympathized with them. The coming-out story was handled very carefully, thoughtfully, and beautifully. It just warmed my heart.
Please read this book! It's a great mix of banter, wit, ice cream, exceptionally good spice, big emotions, and it leaves you with a warm feeling afterwards. But be careful! Don't read it in the evening, or you'll be up all night because you won't be able to put the book down.
And now I need some ice cream...
October 23, 2025
Bravo! A laugh-out-loud sapphic rom-com that was such a fun, addictive, and heartwarming read. Noa and Aarti were a perfect example of why I love and am obsessed with sapphic romances. From the meet-cute I knew I was going to fall head over heels in love and I did just that. My absolute favorite thing about the book was the witty banter and how they dished it out with the familiarity of an old married couple. Noa was adorable, quirky, and awkward, but she held her own against the hot, confident, and sarcastic Aarti.
The chemistry was off the charts and I rooted for them like any decent hopeless romantic would. It wasn’t all sweet because eventually the spice kicked in and…my goodness. Did anyone else feel hot? Moving on! The comedic moments were hilarious, and I had a hard time keeping it together. I laughed out loud more than I thought I would and, despite my best efforts, it was difficult to stifle some of them. The supportive family members brought tears to my eyes and made me so happy. I connected with this book on a personal level in some ways and I loved every minute of it. Aarti’s fear of coming out because of the possible ramifications was palpable and relatable. Noa’s insecurities and her willingness to make herself small if it meant that she could be loved deeply absolutely wrecked me. I could keep talking about how much I loved it, but I don’t want to make it weird! I laughed a lot, cried, blushed (just a little), and I was so fudging happy with it. I highly recommend giving it a read!
The chemistry was off the charts and I rooted for them like any decent hopeless romantic would. It wasn’t all sweet because eventually the spice kicked in and…my goodness. Did anyone else feel hot? Moving on! The comedic moments were hilarious, and I had a hard time keeping it together. I laughed out loud more than I thought I would and, despite my best efforts, it was difficult to stifle some of them. The supportive family members brought tears to my eyes and made me so happy. I connected with this book on a personal level in some ways and I loved every minute of it. Aarti’s fear of coming out because of the possible ramifications was palpable and relatable. Noa’s insecurities and her willingness to make herself small if it meant that she could be loved deeply absolutely wrecked me. I could keep talking about how much I loved it, but I don’t want to make it weird! I laughed a lot, cried, blushed (just a little), and I was so fudging happy with it. I highly recommend giving it a read!
September 21, 2025
I ate this up. I don’t usually choke up over books, but when the angst hit, I was so sad.
It was funny and charming and sweet, and yes, angsty towards the end. Aarti has worked her entire life to become a comedian. When a late night host of a popular show goes too far with a bit, he is terminated and she is hired to be his replacement. Who knew that Rena and Ella were psychic? She’s hired to be less “controversial”, and that means that she has to completely hide who she is. On top of that, her very conservative Indian parents have had a huge influence on her life and she already feels that she has disappointed them by not becoming a doctor or lawyer and isn’t married to one either. This is a huge issue, since Aarti is a closeted lesbian. She’s in a position where she has to appease her corporate overlords who are her bosses and her family. She’s only been able to appease herself by doing comedy. She is also incredibly hot. Think Archie Panjabi plus Simone Ashley.
Noa is a food chemist working for the lesbian Ben and Jerry’s company (YES, please!). She is a people pleaser, but effing sweet to the core. She’s awkward and funny and just wants to be loved and valued, but has settled for less during her life. She’s adorable. She’s not big on labels and she states that she is just looking for her person. The way Noa interprets flavors is so incredibly unique and it made me think about food a little differently. Please note that I have the flavor pallette of a 7 year old and I will choose chicken tenders over fancy stuff all day long.
Aarti and Noa come together thru the corporate overlords looking for an ice cream that can be branded for the show. Hijinks ensue. Lots of hijinks. Writing comedy is so difficult, especially physical comedy. The comedy in this is pure gold. The descriptions of the physical humor made a movie in my head that I would watch over and over again. There’s more spice than in the authors’ previous book and I must say, this pleased me to no end. I could relate to their sexual physicality, which is super lovely for me. Hooray! Thank you, Rena and Ella for having spice in a book that resonated with this old lesbian.
The growth of both characters was just, chef’s kiss…mwah. Was I yelling at both of them at times? Yes. Was “get your head out of your ass” and “stand up for your damn self” coming out of my mouth? Yes, because I was so rooting for Noa and Aarti. There were secondary characters who were also rooting for these two ladies, and some who didn’t even know they were rooting for them. It added depth and nuance to the story and a nice counter balance to the humor.
So, yeah. I frigging loved it. I will read it again. I will buy the physical book. I will give to the kickstarter to make this a movie.
I received an arc from Smokeshow Press and all opinions belong to me.
It was funny and charming and sweet, and yes, angsty towards the end. Aarti has worked her entire life to become a comedian. When a late night host of a popular show goes too far with a bit, he is terminated and she is hired to be his replacement. Who knew that Rena and Ella were psychic? She’s hired to be less “controversial”, and that means that she has to completely hide who she is. On top of that, her very conservative Indian parents have had a huge influence on her life and she already feels that she has disappointed them by not becoming a doctor or lawyer and isn’t married to one either. This is a huge issue, since Aarti is a closeted lesbian. She’s in a position where she has to appease her corporate overlords who are her bosses and her family. She’s only been able to appease herself by doing comedy. She is also incredibly hot. Think Archie Panjabi plus Simone Ashley.
Noa is a food chemist working for the lesbian Ben and Jerry’s company (YES, please!). She is a people pleaser, but effing sweet to the core. She’s awkward and funny and just wants to be loved and valued, but has settled for less during her life. She’s adorable. She’s not big on labels and she states that she is just looking for her person. The way Noa interprets flavors is so incredibly unique and it made me think about food a little differently. Please note that I have the flavor pallette of a 7 year old and I will choose chicken tenders over fancy stuff all day long.
Aarti and Noa come together thru the corporate overlords looking for an ice cream that can be branded for the show. Hijinks ensue. Lots of hijinks. Writing comedy is so difficult, especially physical comedy. The comedy in this is pure gold. The descriptions of the physical humor made a movie in my head that I would watch over and over again. There’s more spice than in the authors’ previous book and I must say, this pleased me to no end. I could relate to their sexual physicality, which is super lovely for me. Hooray! Thank you, Rena and Ella for having spice in a book that resonated with this old lesbian.
The growth of both characters was just, chef’s kiss…mwah. Was I yelling at both of them at times? Yes. Was “get your head out of your ass” and “stand up for your damn self” coming out of my mouth? Yes, because I was so rooting for Noa and Aarti. There were secondary characters who were also rooting for these two ladies, and some who didn’t even know they were rooting for them. It added depth and nuance to the story and a nice counter balance to the humor.
So, yeah. I frigging loved it. I will read it again. I will buy the physical book. I will give to the kickstarter to make this a movie.
I received an arc from Smokeshow Press and all opinions belong to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2025
'Sweet Talk' is one of those sapphic romances that could definitely be way too saccharine with it's cute charm and outlandish meet cute but White and Schaefer's sharp wit really makes this story something special.
On paper an ice cream scientist and a late night comedian should never really cross paths but the way their stories become entwined ends up feeling like the most natural of plot lines. Their personalities and lives are so different that the comic banter and stubborn headbutting creates the perfect setting for instant chemistry.
Noa and Aarti are so vibrant and really stand alone as brilliant MCs which is something I really value as a romance reader. The story as a whole also feels fresh in terms of style and story format. Overall it's a gorgeous mix of playful, hot banter and also head on conversations about the disparities still faced by so many in our society today.
The only thing I would have liked was more of a focus of Aarti's relationship with her sister in the latter part of their story but that's just a personal preference.
A gorgeous and meaningful story I loved escaping into.
On paper an ice cream scientist and a late night comedian should never really cross paths but the way their stories become entwined ends up feeling like the most natural of plot lines. Their personalities and lives are so different that the comic banter and stubborn headbutting creates the perfect setting for instant chemistry.
Noa and Aarti are so vibrant and really stand alone as brilliant MCs which is something I really value as a romance reader. The story as a whole also feels fresh in terms of style and story format. Overall it's a gorgeous mix of playful, hot banter and also head on conversations about the disparities still faced by so many in our society today.
The only thing I would have liked was more of a focus of Aarti's relationship with her sister in the latter part of their story but that's just a personal preference.
A gorgeous and meaningful story I loved escaping into.
October 27, 2025
Sweet Talk is laugh out loud funny while delivering a meaningful, beautiful love story between two women who are complete opposites.
The chemistry between Aarti and Noa is noticeable from the beginning. Even the other characters see it, even it’s not reg “romantic chemistry” we as readers are used to seeing and describing. They have chemistry all around. In banter, in the romance department, co-worker department, etc— the chemistry is ALWAYS there!
While it is a romcom, Sweet Talk dives into some deeper themes of coming out, acceptance, cultural differences, imposter syndrome, etc. I found myself laughing and crying in the same breath. I could see parallels between what was going on in the book and what is going on in today’s world and I appreciated that. There wasn’t too much angst, which I appreciate.
The ending was so freaking cute and sweet! I loved how it wrapped up and couldn’t ask for any more! Maybe a little more with their families and seeing how they all interact with each other? But other than that? I really have no issues with this book. A definite reread! Sweet Talk left me on a sugar high with no comedown!
The chemistry between Aarti and Noa is noticeable from the beginning. Even the other characters see it, even it’s not reg “romantic chemistry” we as readers are used to seeing and describing. They have chemistry all around. In banter, in the romance department, co-worker department, etc— the chemistry is ALWAYS there!
While it is a romcom, Sweet Talk dives into some deeper themes of coming out, acceptance, cultural differences, imposter syndrome, etc. I found myself laughing and crying in the same breath. I could see parallels between what was going on in the book and what is going on in today’s world and I appreciated that. There wasn’t too much angst, which I appreciate.
The ending was so freaking cute and sweet! I loved how it wrapped up and couldn’t ask for any more! Maybe a little more with their families and seeing how they all interact with each other? But other than that? I really have no issues with this book. A definite reread! Sweet Talk left me on a sugar high with no comedown!
November 6, 2025
(rounded up from 4.5)
This was emotional and sweet and satisfying. I'm not feeling well so that's about all I can bring myself to say but it brought be come comfort reading it while I was ill so much apopreciate the cute romance, and attention to details with ice cream flavors.
This was emotional and sweet and satisfying. I'm not feeling well so that's about all I can bring myself to say but it brought be come comfort reading it while I was ill so much apopreciate the cute romance, and attention to details with ice cream flavors.
September 17, 2025
I really hope that the author goodies for the pre-order includes the titular ice cream, because this book is a sensory delight and I need that flavor in my life. This novel purports to be one of my favorite tropes, enemies-to-lovers. I will say that they did not seem to spend much time as "enemies" per-se, but the progression from their initial conflict to them being idiots in love was charming and well-paced. Also this book was hilarious. As a former scientist plagued by love of ice cream, I highly related to MC1 (Main Character 1), as well as MC2's relationship with her family. The in-universe Ben-and-Jerry's was largely preferable being run by lesbians and giving the owners ultimate control over the company, as our world's Jerry has just left the brand due to losing control of social messaging during this critical time to Unilever. The unseen late night show host who lost his job was a pulled-from-headlines Colbert, and made MC2's fears about the loss of her job due to her sexuality plausible. The choice towards the end was heartbreaking, and my mind was like "it can't possibly end like this!". Luckily I took another look at the page count and the HEA was ensured in the end. I enjoyed this book immensely, and now plan on reading the previous one by these authors.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2025
Plot and sweet spice wrapped up in a warm hug! Well paced and the steam flowed with the story (didn’t take you out of it just for the sake of adding it).
Aarti was on the cusp of living her dream while simultaneously hiding everything she truly is. Noa is a doctor and ice cream genius who can create a perfect ice cream match working for the amazing (and needed!) female version of Ben and Jerry’s. Noa is at her best when she’s in her lab.
There’s a couple meet uglies but the connection is undeniable. Their banter is top notch and natural. The powers that be decide to put them together as a part of a series to promote/boost Aarti’s late night comedy show.
Can they each find what they need in the other? Can success be more than being only a shadow of themselves? Highly recommend reading and finding out!’
Aarti was on the cusp of living her dream while simultaneously hiding everything she truly is. Noa is a doctor and ice cream genius who can create a perfect ice cream match working for the amazing (and needed!) female version of Ben and Jerry’s. Noa is at her best when she’s in her lab.
There’s a couple meet uglies but the connection is undeniable. Their banter is top notch and natural. The powers that be decide to put them together as a part of a series to promote/boost Aarti’s late night comedy show.
Can they each find what they need in the other? Can success be more than being only a shadow of themselves? Highly recommend reading and finding out!’
September 28, 2025
Thanks to the authors for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is delightfully queer, fun, and layered with emotional depth, especially in its exploration of coming out - a theme that tugs at my heartstrings ❤️
The story unfolds through the dual perspectives of Aarti and Noa. Aarti is a brilliant comedian and soon-to-be-famous talk show host of 'Up Late', while Noa is an ice cream PhD specialist extraordinaire 🍨 Their worlds collide when Noa develops Aarti’s celebrity ice cream flavour and, by chance, finds herself becoming the on-screen sidekick to this rising television star 📺
Their first meeting is both hilarious and I think symbolic: Aarti is literally stuck in a closet window, and Noa helps her “get free.” This sapphic twist of fate sets the stage beautifully, foreshadowing both the humour and the intimacy of their relationship.
The narrative continues to throw Aarti and Noa together in fun ways - from a dumpster encounter to the pressures of a workplace romance. They embody an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, enhanced by forced proximity and undeniable chemistry. The sexual tension is electric and full of yearning - I particularly connected with Noa’s perspective on having a crush on Aarti: “I’ve always had a thing for confident women who could destroy me.” 🫠
The romance is both tender and passionate, offering plenty of spice. Aarti often takes the lead, and the intimacy between them feels both playful and deeply affirming ❤️🔥🌶
What makes this book stand out, however, is its emotional core. Beneath the humour and the heat lies an exploration of identity. Aarti faces pressures her to hide aspects of herself. This struggle is painfully relatable for many queer readers. This story reminds us that no one should ever feel obliged to come out for anyone else’s sake - it is society that fails us, not the individual. Aarti’s journey is heartfelt, and you'll be rooting for her happiness ❤️
I would've liked to see Diti’s storyline explored further, but I appreciated the inclusion of mental health and boundaries in relationships. Overall, this novel balances humour, romance, and emotional resonance with flair. It’s a story that celebrates queer love in all its passionate and heartfelt glory - and it left me smiling ❤️
This novel is delightfully queer, fun, and layered with emotional depth, especially in its exploration of coming out - a theme that tugs at my heartstrings ❤️
The story unfolds through the dual perspectives of Aarti and Noa. Aarti is a brilliant comedian and soon-to-be-famous talk show host of 'Up Late', while Noa is an ice cream PhD specialist extraordinaire 🍨 Their worlds collide when Noa develops Aarti’s celebrity ice cream flavour and, by chance, finds herself becoming the on-screen sidekick to this rising television star 📺
Their first meeting is both hilarious and I think symbolic: Aarti is literally stuck in a closet window, and Noa helps her “get free.” This sapphic twist of fate sets the stage beautifully, foreshadowing both the humour and the intimacy of their relationship.
The narrative continues to throw Aarti and Noa together in fun ways - from a dumpster encounter to the pressures of a workplace romance. They embody an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, enhanced by forced proximity and undeniable chemistry. The sexual tension is electric and full of yearning - I particularly connected with Noa’s perspective on having a crush on Aarti: “I’ve always had a thing for confident women who could destroy me.” 🫠
The romance is both tender and passionate, offering plenty of spice. Aarti often takes the lead, and the intimacy between them feels both playful and deeply affirming ❤️🔥🌶
What makes this book stand out, however, is its emotional core. Beneath the humour and the heat lies an exploration of identity. Aarti faces pressures her to hide aspects of herself. This struggle is painfully relatable for many queer readers. This story reminds us that no one should ever feel obliged to come out for anyone else’s sake - it is society that fails us, not the individual. Aarti’s journey is heartfelt, and you'll be rooting for her happiness ❤️
I would've liked to see Diti’s storyline explored further, but I appreciated the inclusion of mental health and boundaries in relationships. Overall, this novel balances humour, romance, and emotional resonance with flair. It’s a story that celebrates queer love in all its passionate and heartfelt glory - and it left me smiling ❤️
September 23, 2025
"I label it simply: Sweet Talk. Because isn’t that what we’ve been doing? Sweet-talking the world into believing we’re just colleagues with good chemistry?"
Comedian Aarti Nair and Dr Noa Hart are good at what they do. Aarti is searching for the perfect laugh, and Noa is searching for the perfect flavor...of ice cream.
Their worlds collude, literally, on the set of Aarti's new show when Noah has to be a last minute substitute for her boss.
however, it also seems that there's an emotional collision between the two and that's what the story is about.
Two very different people are introduced to us and my thoughts were and I'm really going to like this? Am I too old to get this story? But after a slow start I found myself wondering how the story would go when I was nowhere near the book. And at the end I kept reading way past my usual bedtime and immediately buying Smokeshow's first book because I loved this one so much. Highly Recommended 5/5
[ Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. However in no way did it affect my reading or reviewing]
Comedian Aarti Nair and Dr Noa Hart are good at what they do. Aarti is searching for the perfect laugh, and Noa is searching for the perfect flavor...of ice cream.
Their worlds collude, literally, on the set of Aarti's new show when Noah has to be a last minute substitute for her boss.
however, it also seems that there's an emotional collision between the two and that's what the story is about.
Two very different people are introduced to us and my thoughts were and I'm really going to like this? Am I too old to get this story? But after a slow start I found myself wondering how the story would go when I was nowhere near the book. And at the end I kept reading way past my usual bedtime and immediately buying Smokeshow's first book because I loved this one so much. Highly Recommended 5/5
[ Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. However in no way did it affect my reading or reviewing]
January 3, 2026
I haven’t had the best luck with sapphic contemporaries for some reason, but yay! I really, really liked this one. It’s funny (the writers are TV romcom writers, so this tracks), well-written and hot, and somehow manages to contain a character who could be a Quirky Irritant but somehow isn’t. Just accept that there could be a Doctorate of Ice Cream Sciences and go along for the ride. Will def be checking out this writing duo’s first book.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
October 1, 2025
“Coming out isn’t a gift you hand to someone else; it’s a truth you claim for yourself.”
In my completely unprofessional opinion there’s absolutely nothing wrong with this book. I was sucked in from the first sentence of the first page and was so engrossed in it that I completely forgot to take notes. I thought I knew what my favorite book was but I was clearly wrong, my favorite book is Sweet Talk. It’s everything I never knew I wanted from a book, I loved the handwritten notes and the posters that are used as divisions.
Noa and Aarti are just wonderful, I was rooting for them to be together so hard but at the same time, if the book had something other than an HEA because they couldn’t align their interests then I still would have rooted for them individually. Their growth throughout the book is so well written, them finally standing up for themselves and supporting each other. The tension, banter and chemistry, even when they were at odds, was incredible. The angst hit me hard but I definitely smiled like a fool a lot too.
From the beginning, the first thing I remember reading that struck me as different from many other books is differentiating that you could be academically smart and still not be adult life smart. I loved the description of the photo shoot in which they basically pose in the same way as the cover. I loved the found family that Aarti had apart from her own, the food truck owners and I loved that she never forgot the people who supported her when she was still performing in small comedy clubs as a teenager and wanted to share with them her success. Aiden being a pillar of support for his sister as she had been for him. The pacing was perfect for me, never boring but also never too quick that I felt like I missed something.
My second favorite quote completely out of context, until you read the book, is: “Women can be accountants too”.
Thank you to Ella Schaefer, Rena Sapon-White and Smokeshow Press for providing me with an eARC of my new favorite book. I almost bought an ice cream pint.
In my completely unprofessional opinion there’s absolutely nothing wrong with this book. I was sucked in from the first sentence of the first page and was so engrossed in it that I completely forgot to take notes. I thought I knew what my favorite book was but I was clearly wrong, my favorite book is Sweet Talk. It’s everything I never knew I wanted from a book, I loved the handwritten notes and the posters that are used as divisions.
Noa and Aarti are just wonderful, I was rooting for them to be together so hard but at the same time, if the book had something other than an HEA because they couldn’t align their interests then I still would have rooted for them individually. Their growth throughout the book is so well written, them finally standing up for themselves and supporting each other. The tension, banter and chemistry, even when they were at odds, was incredible. The angst hit me hard but I definitely smiled like a fool a lot too.
From the beginning, the first thing I remember reading that struck me as different from many other books is differentiating that you could be academically smart and still not be adult life smart. I loved the description of the photo shoot in which they basically pose in the same way as the cover. I loved the found family that Aarti had apart from her own, the food truck owners and I loved that she never forgot the people who supported her when she was still performing in small comedy clubs as a teenager and wanted to share with them her success. Aiden being a pillar of support for his sister as she had been for him. The pacing was perfect for me, never boring but also never too quick that I felt like I missed something.
My second favorite quote completely out of context, until you read the book, is: “Women can be accountants too”.
Thank you to Ella Schaefer, Rena Sapon-White and Smokeshow Press for providing me with an eARC of my new favorite book. I almost bought an ice cream pint.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2025
If you love ice cream, fun, chat shows and food, then you’re gonna love this!
Both MCs are super cool (I’m old 🤷🏼♀️) and really likeable. Aarti is a little bit grumpy with the weight of the world on her shoulders and Noa is a chaotic people pleaser.
I enjoyed the humour and banter between the characters and from the very beginning they have amazing chemistry.
There’s a large portion of this where one MC is closeted so if that’s not your thing this likely isn’t for you but I promise it’s all worth it in the end!
I loved the pace of the book, never lingering too long and dragging anything out just for the sake of it.
We get an epilogue that actually gives us a look at their future a year down the line AND gives us the best ‘Duh’ to ever be duh’d! (IMO)
I will happily reread this if I’m looking for something fairly easy going with minimal angst and witty characters throughout.
eARC through BookFunnel in exchange for my honest review.
Both MCs are super cool (I’m old 🤷🏼♀️) and really likeable. Aarti is a little bit grumpy with the weight of the world on her shoulders and Noa is a chaotic people pleaser.
I enjoyed the humour and banter between the characters and from the very beginning they have amazing chemistry.
There’s a large portion of this where one MC is closeted so if that’s not your thing this likely isn’t for you but I promise it’s all worth it in the end!
I loved the pace of the book, never lingering too long and dragging anything out just for the sake of it.
We get an epilogue that actually gives us a look at their future a year down the line AND gives us the best ‘Duh’ to ever be duh’d! (IMO)
I will happily reread this if I’m looking for something fairly easy going with minimal angst and witty characters throughout.
eARC through BookFunnel in exchange for my honest review.
October 5, 2025
dr noa hart has the best job she is an ice cream create, she has a phd in ice cream creation and comes up with some very unique flavours, and she brainstorms her ideas from a pull up bar that she hangs upside down from... she is adorable
comedian aarti nair has been working the comedy scene for years now she started as a child when she use to sneak out and travelled the bus routes to the comedy clubs, she learnt a lot and has come a long way and she is just about to hit the big time with her very own late night talk show there is only one problem her personal life is very much hidden
when these two meet its explosive literally nitrogen canister explodes and noa and aarti are never quite the same again....
the americanism went right over my head but once i had the characters of noa and aarti pinned down i loved their interactions and learning about their families was fascinating i hope more stories about their families are coming out
but this is the story about aarti and noa and how they build their relationship through tears and betrayals to just letting go and be damned with the consequences though will aarti be brave enough to do it and will noa get her own voice and stand up for herself
its a compelling story and one i was hooked right into.... damn i want ice cream now
looking forward to reading more from these two authors
comedian aarti nair has been working the comedy scene for years now she started as a child when she use to sneak out and travelled the bus routes to the comedy clubs, she learnt a lot and has come a long way and she is just about to hit the big time with her very own late night talk show there is only one problem her personal life is very much hidden
when these two meet its explosive literally nitrogen canister explodes and noa and aarti are never quite the same again....
the americanism went right over my head but once i had the characters of noa and aarti pinned down i loved their interactions and learning about their families was fascinating i hope more stories about their families are coming out
but this is the story about aarti and noa and how they build their relationship through tears and betrayals to just letting go and be damned with the consequences though will aarti be brave enough to do it and will noa get her own voice and stand up for herself
its a compelling story and one i was hooked right into.... damn i want ice cream now
looking forward to reading more from these two authors
October 9, 2025
This book is such a good mix of sweet and spicy! The enemies to lovers was written so well to provide enough clashing to be interesting but not too much that you dislike either character. Instead, you discover how both characters have such an amazing humor and why they fit so well together (like bananas and ice cream in a banana split 😉). I loved seeing both characters overcome challenges in their own ways and I was so proud of each characters growth by the end of the book. The side characters are well developed and have their own small arcs that you get invested in along the way as well. Even characters you wouldn’t expect have plot twists that makes this book so much better. Please do yourself a service and read Sweet Talk right away so your heart can melt for these characters and their beautiful story!
October 1, 2025
This book was great! I really enjoyed the different worlds these characters came from, but are able to bond and connect over. The banter and spice were absolutely chefs kiss, and made the story flow perfectly. Lastly, a dual POV is my favorite. I love hearing the story from both FMC perspective.
October 15, 2025
Delightfully delicious and as sweet as it is spicy.
It has the opportunity to leave you feeling hungry and horny! I loved the mix of characters and their development, with a story told with both humour and heart.
Huge thanks to the authors for the arc ebook.
It has the opportunity to leave you feeling hungry and horny! I loved the mix of characters and their development, with a story told with both humour and heart.
Huge thanks to the authors for the arc ebook.
Want to read
November 21, 2025aarti nair i know what u are (#my queer malayali rep 👁️👁️)
October 23, 2025
5/5 - sapphic, contemporary, celebrity, enemies to lovers, ice cream scientist. Sweet, funny, spicy, emotional—this one really hit all the flavor notes. Ice-cream scientist was such a fun profession to see written; it had me wanting to know more and peek deeper into Noa’s world. I’m not usually a fan of talk-show hosts or stand-up comics, so I didn’t expect to like Aarti as much as I did, but she completely won me over. The book was genuinely funny and had me smiling so many times. Great side characters, some very well-done representation, and just an overall joy to read. What a treat of a romance!
September 22, 2025
I don’t believe I’ve ever had a book give me goosebumps before until now! It is so beautifully written, the perfect mix of sweet and spicy!
October 8, 2025
Such a cute read!
The banter between the characters was fantastic and the story itself felt so original I had a great time reading it!
This book would be perfect for PRIDE month or even just a cute Valentine's Day read!
The banter between the characters was fantastic and the story itself felt so original I had a great time reading it!
This book would be perfect for PRIDE month or even just a cute Valentine's Day read!
October 5, 2025
A sweet & hilarious rom-com with ice cream...& spice. Highly recommend!
(4.5 stars)
Just like the perfect tub of ice-cream, this story was full to the brim of humour, heart, sweetness, spice, and beautifully delicious complexities.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it was very good. I loved so many things about it, but one thing I thought was next level was the humour. The British and the Americans have very different senses of humour, but I thought the comedy in this was brilliant. I laughed so much throughout this story. With a book about a comedian, it’s obviously extremely important to have the comedy on point, and it could have easily fallen short, but the authors didn’t let us down.
The main characters were well-rounded, and their chemistry felt organic from the start. I particularly liked how it wasn’t just about their love story, but also about how they felt about themselves as individuals, and despite the challenges they faced, they still fought for themselves and their dreams. Even through their heartbreak. Because of those foundations, and the excellent descriptive imagery, the spicy scenes were...well hotter than Aarti’s mum’s vindaloo. I would have like a little more information about the main side characters, but I got enough about Madge and Stella that I would love a sequel where they get together...maybe.😉
Something else, I appreciated more than I expected was diving into the world of American “Late Night talk shows”. As someone from the UK, I don’t know a huge amount about them (minus the clips I’ve seen online), but I loved how the authors clearly laid out how Late Night shows and comedy shows like SNL - although in this book it’s called “Midnight Live” - works and how politics can impact the creative teams and stars. It felt very apt for today's current climate in the US.
My only criticism, and this may purely be because I didn’t want it to end, was that it felt like the ending was too rushed. The relationship was a slow burn and the challenges they faced felt natural, but the third act heartbreak was still happening at 90% of the book. There were a lot of loose ends that needed to be tied and although they did get tied, they were tied extremely quickly and left me feeling a smidge cheated and with quite a few questions about what happened during those moments we don’t get to see. However, those gaps in the timeline could lead to novellas or anthologies, so all is not lost, and well to be honest I would read anything starring Aarti and Noa. They are just too cute.
Overall, I would highly recommend this fantastic story. There is so much more I could say about it, but I think the title describes it perfectly. This story is so sweet and the perfect escape from the horrors of reality (sort of, the authors may be a bit physic on some things) 😅. So, if you love sweetness, comedy, ice-cream, ADHD rep, and spice, you’ll love this.
(4.5 stars)
Just like the perfect tub of ice-cream, this story was full to the brim of humour, heart, sweetness, spice, and beautifully delicious complexities.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it was very good. I loved so many things about it, but one thing I thought was next level was the humour. The British and the Americans have very different senses of humour, but I thought the comedy in this was brilliant. I laughed so much throughout this story. With a book about a comedian, it’s obviously extremely important to have the comedy on point, and it could have easily fallen short, but the authors didn’t let us down.
The main characters were well-rounded, and their chemistry felt organic from the start. I particularly liked how it wasn’t just about their love story, but also about how they felt about themselves as individuals, and despite the challenges they faced, they still fought for themselves and their dreams. Even through their heartbreak. Because of those foundations, and the excellent descriptive imagery, the spicy scenes were...well hotter than Aarti’s mum’s vindaloo. I would have like a little more information about the main side characters, but I got enough about Madge and Stella that I would love a sequel where they get together...maybe.😉
Something else, I appreciated more than I expected was diving into the world of American “Late Night talk shows”. As someone from the UK, I don’t know a huge amount about them (minus the clips I’ve seen online), but I loved how the authors clearly laid out how Late Night shows and comedy shows like SNL - although in this book it’s called “Midnight Live” - works and how politics can impact the creative teams and stars. It felt very apt for today's current climate in the US.
My only criticism, and this may purely be because I didn’t want it to end, was that it felt like the ending was too rushed. The relationship was a slow burn and the challenges they faced felt natural, but the third act heartbreak was still happening at 90% of the book. There were a lot of loose ends that needed to be tied and although they did get tied, they were tied extremely quickly and left me feeling a smidge cheated and with quite a few questions about what happened during those moments we don’t get to see. However, those gaps in the timeline could lead to novellas or anthologies, so all is not lost, and well to be honest I would read anything starring Aarti and Noa. They are just too cute.
Overall, I would highly recommend this fantastic story. There is so much more I could say about it, but I think the title describes it perfectly. This story is so sweet and the perfect escape from the horrors of reality (sort of, the authors may be a bit physic on some things) 😅. So, if you love sweetness, comedy, ice-cream, ADHD rep, and spice, you’ll love this.
September 21, 2025
To be able to enjoy this book I had to turn off my chemist brain a bit and just try to accept that Noa is a Doctor in Ice Cream Sciences, food chemistry is possible to do research in but in ice cream science specifically is a bit tough to swallow for me.
When I got over that obstacle the story was very sweet with Aarti the comedian that is getting her own TV show. She is already a minority, an Indian immigrant and a woman so to come out as gay is not possible but something she hides from everyone. When she somehow ends up in a lesbian bar with her regular super model hook-up, she is saved from being noticed by Noa that helps her to escape unnoticed.
When they meet again when Noa is assigned to design a special ice cream signature flavour for Aarti, a special brand thing, the sparks fly from the very beginning. It is decided that Noa will be Aarti’s sidekick in the show and in preparation for that the ice cream adventure they get to know each other and very soon so much more than that. This is however way too much of a risk for Aarti, she cannot be outed and risk her career and Noa deserves so much more than being someone hidden.
Can all this be overcome so they get their HEA?
I received a free ARC from the authors and leave a review voluntarily.
When I got over that obstacle the story was very sweet with Aarti the comedian that is getting her own TV show. She is already a minority, an Indian immigrant and a woman so to come out as gay is not possible but something she hides from everyone. When she somehow ends up in a lesbian bar with her regular super model hook-up, she is saved from being noticed by Noa that helps her to escape unnoticed.
When they meet again when Noa is assigned to design a special ice cream signature flavour for Aarti, a special brand thing, the sparks fly from the very beginning. It is decided that Noa will be Aarti’s sidekick in the show and in preparation for that the ice cream adventure they get to know each other and very soon so much more than that. This is however way too much of a risk for Aarti, she cannot be outed and risk her career and Noa deserves so much more than being someone hidden.
Can all this be overcome so they get their HEA?
I received a free ARC from the authors and leave a review voluntarily.
September 21, 2025
Aarti Nair, a comedian and the first woman of color to host a late-night talk show, which comes with a lot of responsibilities - including the burden of hiding her sexuality. Her first encounter with Noa i unconventional to say the least, and from there thing only get messier.
Dr. Noa Hart, eccentric, chaotic, and unapologetically herself, is the kind of sweetheart who helps a random woman escape a tricky situation, only to later be accused of being a stalker.
When Aarti and Noa are forced to work together, sparks inevitably start to fly. Despite some rocky missteps at the beginning, their constant banter and chemistry are impossible to ignore.
I really loved both characters and their later dynamic. The pacing was great overall, though Aarti’s shift in attitude toward Noa felt a bit sudden. It also took me a few chapters to fully engage in the story, but once I did, it was incredibly enjoyable read.
‘Sweet Talk’ balances humor, love, fear of the unknown, consequences, hard choices and family dynamics beautifully. Definitely recommended!
✾ enemies-to-lovers
✾ opposites attract
✾ forced proximity
✾ ice queen/cinnamon roll
✾ coming out
✾ dual POV
I received an ARC, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Dr. Noa Hart, eccentric, chaotic, and unapologetically herself, is the kind of sweetheart who helps a random woman escape a tricky situation, only to later be accused of being a stalker.
When Aarti and Noa are forced to work together, sparks inevitably start to fly. Despite some rocky missteps at the beginning, their constant banter and chemistry are impossible to ignore.
I really loved both characters and their later dynamic. The pacing was great overall, though Aarti’s shift in attitude toward Noa felt a bit sudden. It also took me a few chapters to fully engage in the story, but once I did, it was incredibly enjoyable read.
‘Sweet Talk’ balances humor, love, fear of the unknown, consequences, hard choices and family dynamics beautifully. Definitely recommended!
✾ enemies-to-lovers
✾ opposites attract
✾ forced proximity
✾ ice queen/cinnamon roll
✾ coming out
✾ dual POV
I received an ARC, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
October 3, 2025
Aarti Nair has just landed the top spot at Up Late (basically the Tonight Show) though she knows she's partly a DEI hire.
Dr Noa Hart (PHD ice cream sciences) meets Aarti at a gay bar, where she's trying to escape via a bathroom window.
(To keep her job Aarti can not be out, and she didn't know that was where her friends were taking her.)
Noa helps her escape, then gets asked by her boss to help do a special ice cream for a celeb .. who turns out is Aarti. The whole thing goes horribly wrong, but the producer finds it funny as hell... so suggests Noa as her sidekick.
Aarti and Noa fall for each other, but as said Aarti can not be out, so....
Third act breakup. Not my fave, but made sense at least.
Also a cameo from their earlier book.
4 out of 5 stars. Good, didn't blow me away though.
Dr Noa Hart (PHD ice cream sciences) meets Aarti at a gay bar, where she's trying to escape via a bathroom window.
(To keep her job Aarti can not be out, and she didn't know that was where her friends were taking her.)
Noa helps her escape, then gets asked by her boss to help do a special ice cream for a celeb .. who turns out is Aarti. The whole thing goes horribly wrong, but the producer finds it funny as hell... so suggests Noa as her sidekick.
Aarti and Noa fall for each other, but as said Aarti can not be out, so....
Third act breakup. Not my fave, but made sense at least.
Also a cameo from their earlier book.
4 out of 5 stars. Good, didn't blow me away though.
January 1, 2026
I liked how ambitious the plot sought out to be, but I felt it didn’t hit the mark. It was great to see such fun and interesting careers and lives of the main characters, but at points when I hoped they’d go just a bit further with a fun plot point, it seemed to stop short. Like they would throw in an interesting person or aspect of the character that just rarely reappeared or worked with the story.
I also felt the writer made a lot of assumptions about the characters trajectories that just weren’t coming through in the writing. This is likely my preference, but I didn’t find the technical aspects of their careers very interesting.
I did really enjoy the Indian culture and Los Angeles aspects. It was very interesting and the highlights of the book.
Overall, I read a lot of this genre and I just didn’t find this one that interesting. It is very middle of the road.
I also felt the writer made a lot of assumptions about the characters trajectories that just weren’t coming through in the writing. This is likely my preference, but I didn’t find the technical aspects of their careers very interesting.
I did really enjoy the Indian culture and Los Angeles aspects. It was very interesting and the highlights of the book.
Overall, I read a lot of this genre and I just didn’t find this one that interesting. It is very middle of the road.
September 23, 2025
You absolutely HAVE to check out this book! Seriously, I haven't laughed this hard in ages. It's so well-written – it's like the author painted a picture with words; you can practically *feel* everything that's happening. I'm completely obsessed with the characters; I wish they were my real friends!
The story moves along at a great pace, and the family stuff is so touching. It really captures the ups and downs of family life, and the characters' worries and anxieties feel totally relatable. Okay, and let's be honest, the romance scenes are 🔥🔥🔥!
I needed a serious escape after the last week of news (you know, all the crazy stuff!), and this book was exactly what the doctor ordered. Highly recommend!
I reviewed an ARC copy of this book and am leaving my review voluntarily.
The story moves along at a great pace, and the family stuff is so touching. It really captures the ups and downs of family life, and the characters' worries and anxieties feel totally relatable. Okay, and let's be honest, the romance scenes are 🔥🔥🔥!
I needed a serious escape after the last week of news (you know, all the crazy stuff!), and this book was exactly what the doctor ordered. Highly recommend!
I reviewed an ARC copy of this book and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
ARC Review - Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy of the book to read and review.
I can’t express how much I loved this book! I had just finished a dark romantasy and was caught in a book hangover, but Sweet Talk pulled me right out! It was a great Chang of pace, with witty, real characters- with the coolest jobs, an interesting story, enough angst to keep you hooked and some fun spice to top it all off!
I’m not usually a fan of third act breakups, but this one felt true and right for character growth and development. The ending was super satisfying and worth the wait! Definitely recommend Sweet Talk for a sweet treat!
I can’t express how much I loved this book! I had just finished a dark romantasy and was caught in a book hangover, but Sweet Talk pulled me right out! It was a great Chang of pace, with witty, real characters- with the coolest jobs, an interesting story, enough angst to keep you hooked and some fun spice to top it all off!
I’m not usually a fan of third act breakups, but this one felt true and right for character growth and development. The ending was super satisfying and worth the wait! Definitely recommend Sweet Talk for a sweet treat!
September 25, 2025
A sweet sapphic romance with diverse leads and LOL funny moments! It is rare to have an Indian American late night talk show host as MC and even rarer to match her with an Ice Cream scientist who has a trans twin brother. This story started slow but picked up speed gradually, and dashed all the way to the happy ending. I loved all the characters in this amazing book, they are so real and funny and relatable. The couple hit off immediately, but it took them much longer to finally get their HEA, along the way, they learnt to be courageous and be their authentic selves.
September 29, 2025
I devoured this book like a pint of my favorite ice cream! This is such a cute Sapphic rom-com featuring a late night show host and an ice cream flavor scientist who meet unconventionally then go on to have incredible chemistry.
I love Noa and Aarti and their journey so much! They both had their respective character arcs, which were woven in so beautifully with the romance. I laughed, I squealed. And for the spice-lovers, there is plenty of it. AND there were a couple of cameos from characters in The Christmas Pic.
Thank you so much to the authors for the chance to read and review!
I love Noa and Aarti and their journey so much! They both had their respective character arcs, which were woven in so beautifully with the romance. I laughed, I squealed. And for the spice-lovers, there is plenty of it. AND there were a couple of cameos from characters in The Christmas Pic.
Thank you so much to the authors for the chance to read and review!
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