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Heartbreak Era - the new witty YA romcom from Sophie Jo that'll break your heart and then patch it up again.
Harley is in her Heartbreak Era ... but what if romance isn't
finished with her quite yet?
Harley and Freddie have been a couple forever –
they’ve applied to the same university and even picked
out their future children’s names. So when Freddie breaks
up with her on their four-year anniversary, Harley is blindsided.
She's devoted lunchbreaks, holidays - her entire life! - to Freddie.
What is she meant to do now?
Harley discovers her college’s heartbreak club, where she
meets cute-if-slightly-chaotic fellow dumpee Seth. But as the past
and present start to collide, Harley has a big decision on her
hands.
Whose Heartbreak Era is this?
Praise for Red Flags:
“A well-observed romp underpinned by good advice.”
– Sunday Times
“A romantic comedy with substance.”
– Irish Times
“adorable and hilarious” –
Beth Reekles
finished with her quite yet?
Harley and Freddie have been a couple forever –
they’ve applied to the same university and even picked
out their future children’s names. So when Freddie breaks
up with her on their four-year anniversary, Harley is blindsided.
She's devoted lunchbreaks, holidays - her entire life! - to Freddie.
What is she meant to do now?
Harley discovers her college’s heartbreak club, where she
meets cute-if-slightly-chaotic fellow dumpee Seth. But as the past
and present start to collide, Harley has a big decision on her
hands.
Whose Heartbreak Era is this?
Praise for Red Flags:
“A well-observed romp underpinned by good advice.”
– Sunday Times
“A romantic comedy with substance.”
– Irish Times
“adorable and hilarious” –
Beth Reekles
- GenresRomanceYoung Adult
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2026
4 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 15, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley, Sophie Jo and Scholastic UK for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This has to be one of my favourite books of 2025. Harley a sixth-former is broken up with on their 4 year anniversary. She’s planned her whole life with him and has no idea what to do. When she joins her college’s Recently Dumped Club (RDC) everything changes …
I loved and really related to Harley as a character. I was very similar to her at that age and could really feel for her as she navigates through the awkwardness of young adulthood. The people she meets along the way are really compelling too, and her relationships with them felt very authentic. Even though we’re made to hate Freddie at the beginning, he was an interesting character with his own struggles and his eccentricities.
The pacing was perfect, almost too perfect because I couldn’t put it down. Not in a stressful way though, I just wanted to stay in their world as long as possible. It was funny and immersive and overall a great time.
I’d recommend to fans of general teen fiction, authors like John Green and Alice Oseman.
This has to be one of my favourite books of 2025. Harley a sixth-former is broken up with on their 4 year anniversary. She’s planned her whole life with him and has no idea what to do. When she joins her college’s Recently Dumped Club (RDC) everything changes …
I loved and really related to Harley as a character. I was very similar to her at that age and could really feel for her as she navigates through the awkwardness of young adulthood. The people she meets along the way are really compelling too, and her relationships with them felt very authentic. Even though we’re made to hate Freddie at the beginning, he was an interesting character with his own struggles and his eccentricities.
The pacing was perfect, almost too perfect because I couldn’t put it down. Not in a stressful way though, I just wanted to stay in their world as long as possible. It was funny and immersive and overall a great time.
I’d recommend to fans of general teen fiction, authors like John Green and Alice Oseman.
February 3, 2026
It’s been a while since I’ve read a YA novel, but the moment I read the opening line
“I don’t trust a single person on this planet who’d prefer to go out than stay home”
I knew I’d found my people.
Finding out the author was local to me by the end was an added bonus. The mention of the koi at the Botanical Gardens really set my spidey senses tingling. There’s something so special about recognising places close to home in a book - it makes the story feel a little bit more personal.
In short, this follows Harley, a sixth former navigating life after the end of a four year relationship with the love of her life, Freddie. Harley is an introvert who likes comfort and routine, while Freddie wants more — more experiences, more adventure — and in the process, breaks her heart.
In an attempt to cope, Harley joins her college’s Recently Dumped Club, run by an older sixth former experimenting with therapy-style sessions to help teens through heartbreak. It’s here she meets Seth - cute, chaotic, warm-hearted, bonkers energy Seth. Together, they hatch a plan to win their exes back, leading to some of the cutest fake-dating moments.
But as with all fake dating tropes, feelings get complicated, the past resurfaces, and nothing stays simple for long.
Harley is incredibly relatable. We’ve all experienced teenage crushes and heartbreak, and at the time, it truly felt like the end of the world.
This book is full of wit, warmth, and humour, but it doesn’t shy away from exploring the deeper, messier sides of heartbreak - the kind we all experience, no matter our age. Whether you’re 17 or 37, the self-doubt, emotional shifts, and struggles with self-worth are universal, and they’re portrayed well through Harley, Seth, and even Freddie.
At its core, this story is about finding your people, your community, your found family, and learning that you don’t need to change who you are for anyone. With the right support around you, you can be fully yourself and grow into the best version of you. It also gently reminds us that relationships evolve, sometimes they end, and that’s okay.
I especially loved that this didn’t end with a neat Happily Ever After, but instead a more realistic Happily For Now. These characters are young, with so much life still ahead of them, and the possibility of change is shown not as something frightening, but as something hopeful.
Thank you to Sophie Jo, Insta Book Tours & Scholastic for sending me a copy.
“I don’t trust a single person on this planet who’d prefer to go out than stay home”
I knew I’d found my people.
Finding out the author was local to me by the end was an added bonus. The mention of the koi at the Botanical Gardens really set my spidey senses tingling. There’s something so special about recognising places close to home in a book - it makes the story feel a little bit more personal.
In short, this follows Harley, a sixth former navigating life after the end of a four year relationship with the love of her life, Freddie. Harley is an introvert who likes comfort and routine, while Freddie wants more — more experiences, more adventure — and in the process, breaks her heart.
In an attempt to cope, Harley joins her college’s Recently Dumped Club, run by an older sixth former experimenting with therapy-style sessions to help teens through heartbreak. It’s here she meets Seth - cute, chaotic, warm-hearted, bonkers energy Seth. Together, they hatch a plan to win their exes back, leading to some of the cutest fake-dating moments.
But as with all fake dating tropes, feelings get complicated, the past resurfaces, and nothing stays simple for long.
Harley is incredibly relatable. We’ve all experienced teenage crushes and heartbreak, and at the time, it truly felt like the end of the world.
This book is full of wit, warmth, and humour, but it doesn’t shy away from exploring the deeper, messier sides of heartbreak - the kind we all experience, no matter our age. Whether you’re 17 or 37, the self-doubt, emotional shifts, and struggles with self-worth are universal, and they’re portrayed well through Harley, Seth, and even Freddie.
At its core, this story is about finding your people, your community, your found family, and learning that you don’t need to change who you are for anyone. With the right support around you, you can be fully yourself and grow into the best version of you. It also gently reminds us that relationships evolve, sometimes they end, and that’s okay.
I especially loved that this didn’t end with a neat Happily Ever After, but instead a more realistic Happily For Now. These characters are young, with so much life still ahead of them, and the possibility of change is shown not as something frightening, but as something hopeful.
Thank you to Sophie Jo, Insta Book Tours & Scholastic for sending me a copy.
February 10, 2026
This was an absolute joy to read and I’m really going to miss Harley and Seth
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"I don't trust a single person on this planet who'd prefer to go out than stay home."
°•♡•°
No suprise at all that I loved this book inside and out!
Sophie writes the best lovable and relatable characters that warm the cockles of my heart!
This is a beautiful and emotional story of break ups and how they can affect us. Relationships end all the time and yes its sad, but it doesn't mean there's anything wrong with us. Its just life.
We change, we grow, we mature and end up liking/gravitating towards different things/people and thats ok.
A heartfelt and sincere story that had me glued to the page from the very first sentence. I loved it so much
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a proof copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
°•♡•°
No suprise at all that I loved this book inside and out!
Sophie writes the best lovable and relatable characters that warm the cockles of my heart!
This is a beautiful and emotional story of break ups and how they can affect us. Relationships end all the time and yes its sad, but it doesn't mean there's anything wrong with us. Its just life.
We change, we grow, we mature and end up liking/gravitating towards different things/people and thats ok.
A heartfelt and sincere story that had me glued to the page from the very first sentence. I loved it so much
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a proof copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC and provide my honest opinion.
Harley and Freddie have been a couple forever, which translates to they've been together for four years since Harley was fourteen – they’ve applied to the same university and even picked out their future children’s names. But it all comes crashing down when Freddie breaks up with Harley. Freddie was meant to be Harley's forever person, her constant... but it ended, and now she's in her Heartbreak Era.
I loved the concept of this novel; it reads like a coming-of-age story about what happens when your world revolves only around one person. You become fully immersed in this one person, and you don't want to have any other experience – and other persons – that doesn't involve your person. It's amazing to love, but it's also amazing to have a healthy love. It's amazing to have experiences for yourself; it's incredible to have other people... hey, your circle can never be big enough 😅
And joining a college heartbreak club is so over the top but I am glad the club brought an opportunity for her to cross paths with Seth. Seth and the club made Harley really look back at her relationship with Freddie, and I'm glad she made the right decision.
Overall, I loved the plot, the wholesome side characters, and Harley. Thank you once again for the e-ARC.
Harley and Freddie have been a couple forever, which translates to they've been together for four years since Harley was fourteen – they’ve applied to the same university and even picked out their future children’s names. But it all comes crashing down when Freddie breaks up with Harley. Freddie was meant to be Harley's forever person, her constant... but it ended, and now she's in her Heartbreak Era.
I loved the concept of this novel; it reads like a coming-of-age story about what happens when your world revolves only around one person. You become fully immersed in this one person, and you don't want to have any other experience – and other persons – that doesn't involve your person. It's amazing to love, but it's also amazing to have a healthy love. It's amazing to have experiences for yourself; it's incredible to have other people... hey, your circle can never be big enough 😅
And joining a college heartbreak club is so over the top but I am glad the club brought an opportunity for her to cross paths with Seth. Seth and the club made Harley really look back at her relationship with Freddie, and I'm glad she made the right decision.
Overall, I loved the plot, the wholesome side characters, and Harley. Thank you once again for the e-ARC.
February 11, 2026
As someone who is currently in their own ‘heartbreak era’, this book spoke to me on so many levels! A fun, well written story with some very real characters who do not shy away from their flaws. Sophie Jo has done it again 💖
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Red Flags was one of my favourite reads last year, so getting a new Sophie Jo book (and to read it early!) was a welcomed delight. We meet Harley, devoted to her four-year-relationship with Freddie, the person she can see her entire future with. They’ve planned out so far ahead together, from the same university to their potential kids names. As far as Harley is concerned, their connection is as blissful and solid as ever. So when Freddie breaks up with her on their actual four year anniversary, she’s more than devastated: she’s crushed to pieces. This is the boy she dreamed everything with. How is she supposed to detach herself from that idyllic time ahead without the person who became her world who now thinks she’s boring and stuck in her ways?
Enter her college’s Recently Dumped Club, a scheme run by a fellow student who is running it as part of a psychology group therapy session to put toward her Uni assessment. Harley feels she belongs among the fellow broken-hearted, similar stories of being caught off guard, deserted and left feeling shells of themselves. But when she’s paired-up with the chaotic, yet cute Seth, Harley begins to think the club is going to be more trouble than not. Only, when she discovers how heartbroken he is over his ex, Gen, they collaborate on a slightly elaborate plan to fake date, make their exes jealous and subsequently get them back. There’s just a few things wrong with that scenario—it’s clear Gen has moved on, Freddie seems more hurt than jealous—and Harley and Seth find themselves doing the opposite of what is healthy in the aftermath of a break-up. Still, the two of them ignite something in the other, amongst the mayhem. Seth sees Harley, and Harley gets Seth. But with their pasts heavily weighing on their present, the future as uncertain as ever, is pretending to be someone else really the way to unbreak a heart?
There isn’t a word for how much I adored Heartbreak Era, but I’ll try my hardest to convey just how sentimental, deep and thoughtful the story truly is. Harley is this character that I think we can all see ourselves in, desperate to cling to something that might not be meant for her now, but has this nostalgic element to it that makes her put on rose-coloured glasses to pretend it still is. Seth, too, innocently vibrant, yet his shine is dulled out of his control as he becomes fazed-out of a relationship he saw forever in. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Harley and Seth when the last page was turned. This story and all it’s deeper, hopeful meaning, twined with the lightness and swoony, heart-filled energy, was a breath of fresh air. It was steeped in the importance of self love and self belief, in nurturing new and sustained friendships, and the true beauty in letting something go when it no longer serves you well, though our hearts may differ. Sophie Jo has this unique way of cocooning you in the story, interlaced with wholesome, healthy lilts of thoughts and feelings that will be instrumental to young readers to see themselves reflected in. Heartbreak Era is a triumph. It’s always a good day/week/month when I get to read a book written by Sophie, and it’s very clear she’s become one of my favourite voices in YA. I’m so excited for more from her—no matter what genre comes next—because I know it’s a guaranteed page-turner from a wonder of an author.
Enter her college’s Recently Dumped Club, a scheme run by a fellow student who is running it as part of a psychology group therapy session to put toward her Uni assessment. Harley feels she belongs among the fellow broken-hearted, similar stories of being caught off guard, deserted and left feeling shells of themselves. But when she’s paired-up with the chaotic, yet cute Seth, Harley begins to think the club is going to be more trouble than not. Only, when she discovers how heartbroken he is over his ex, Gen, they collaborate on a slightly elaborate plan to fake date, make their exes jealous and subsequently get them back. There’s just a few things wrong with that scenario—it’s clear Gen has moved on, Freddie seems more hurt than jealous—and Harley and Seth find themselves doing the opposite of what is healthy in the aftermath of a break-up. Still, the two of them ignite something in the other, amongst the mayhem. Seth sees Harley, and Harley gets Seth. But with their pasts heavily weighing on their present, the future as uncertain as ever, is pretending to be someone else really the way to unbreak a heart?
There isn’t a word for how much I adored Heartbreak Era, but I’ll try my hardest to convey just how sentimental, deep and thoughtful the story truly is. Harley is this character that I think we can all see ourselves in, desperate to cling to something that might not be meant for her now, but has this nostalgic element to it that makes her put on rose-coloured glasses to pretend it still is. Seth, too, innocently vibrant, yet his shine is dulled out of his control as he becomes fazed-out of a relationship he saw forever in. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Harley and Seth when the last page was turned. This story and all it’s deeper, hopeful meaning, twined with the lightness and swoony, heart-filled energy, was a breath of fresh air. It was steeped in the importance of self love and self belief, in nurturing new and sustained friendships, and the true beauty in letting something go when it no longer serves you well, though our hearts may differ. Sophie Jo has this unique way of cocooning you in the story, interlaced with wholesome, healthy lilts of thoughts and feelings that will be instrumental to young readers to see themselves reflected in. Heartbreak Era is a triumph. It’s always a good day/week/month when I get to read a book written by Sophie, and it’s very clear she’s become one of my favourite voices in YA. I’m so excited for more from her—no matter what genre comes next—because I know it’s a guaranteed page-turner from a wonder of an author.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a review copy from the publisher as part of a UKYASpotlight interview with the author. It has not affected my opinions.
HEARTBREAK ERA is a fake dating romance that discusses healthy and unhealthy ways to process break ups.
Fake dating is one of my favourite romance tropes. I think it can serve a number of different plots, which gives it a great versatility (even if I think it would be a bad idea in real life!) Here it pushes two people together who wouldn't otherwise spend time together and give them a chance to have their good qualities told to them, when they wouldn't otherwise. By seeing the authentic other person, as a contrast to the fake side being shown by the fake dating, the trope lets them forge a real connection.
To me, Harley read as autistic. This isn't stated in the book (nor has the author said this anywhere that I can find), but when there is a dearth of autistic rep, you go find it where you can. I liked that the book never mocks Harley for having deep seated habits. Yes, she pushes herself out of her comfort zone to try new things, but her comfort routines are not discarded but shown to be something that can - and should - be used as restorative and calming when needed.
I love the idea of the Recently Dumped Club. It's run by an upper sixth-form girl Dahlia who wants to study psychology at university and become a therapist, and has created the club as a practical demonstration. While the exact logistics of this group does stretch believability at times, it's such a good idea for a school (or youth centre!) Plenty of teens go through messy break ups and have no idea how to handle it. The help that Dahlia gives the club is so necessary.
This club therefore acts as the vehicle for the book to discuss breakups in a healthy manner, giving Harley and Seth the real advice they need (they certainly aren't handling it in a healthy manner!) It lets the book balance the fun of the romantic plotline with that more serious (and desperately necessary) discussion.
I also liked that the book ended on a "happily for now" rather than a "happily ever after." It fits the growth Harley has gone through to accept that maybe this relationship will work out, maybe it won't, but she doesn't have to have everything planned out as a teenager.
HEARTBREAK ERA is a fake dating romance that discusses healthy and unhealthy ways to process break ups.
Fake dating is one of my favourite romance tropes. I think it can serve a number of different plots, which gives it a great versatility (even if I think it would be a bad idea in real life!) Here it pushes two people together who wouldn't otherwise spend time together and give them a chance to have their good qualities told to them, when they wouldn't otherwise. By seeing the authentic other person, as a contrast to the fake side being shown by the fake dating, the trope lets them forge a real connection.
To me, Harley read as autistic. This isn't stated in the book (nor has the author said this anywhere that I can find), but when there is a dearth of autistic rep, you go find it where you can. I liked that the book never mocks Harley for having deep seated habits. Yes, she pushes herself out of her comfort zone to try new things, but her comfort routines are not discarded but shown to be something that can - and should - be used as restorative and calming when needed.
I love the idea of the Recently Dumped Club. It's run by an upper sixth-form girl Dahlia who wants to study psychology at university and become a therapist, and has created the club as a practical demonstration. While the exact logistics of this group does stretch believability at times, it's such a good idea for a school (or youth centre!) Plenty of teens go through messy break ups and have no idea how to handle it. The help that Dahlia gives the club is so necessary.
This club therefore acts as the vehicle for the book to discuss breakups in a healthy manner, giving Harley and Seth the real advice they need (they certainly aren't handling it in a healthy manner!) It lets the book balance the fun of the romantic plotline with that more serious (and desperately necessary) discussion.
I also liked that the book ended on a "happily for now" rather than a "happily ever after." It fits the growth Harley has gone through to accept that maybe this relationship will work out, maybe it won't, but she doesn't have to have everything planned out as a teenager.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 Stars
Witty, lighthearted and of emotion. Sophie Jo’s Heartbreak Era navigates the complexities of teen heartbreak with a warmth and relatability that so many will enjoy!
It follows introverted teen Harley, who’s left reeling when Freddie (her boyfriend of four years) breaks up with her. Which spurs her into joining a school support group (called the Recently Dumped Club) that helps students recover from heartbreak.
Where she meets the chaotic and equally heartbroken Seth, who convinces Harley to join him in a fake dating scheme to help both of them win back their exes.
I genuinely loved this!
It’s humorous, heartfelt, and doesn’t shy away from exploring the more nuanced aspects of heartbreak (like shifting emotional priorities, identity struggles and low self worth.)
However, it was the incredible cast of characters that truly stole the show for me. They felt layered and complex (with human flaws) that only made me love getting to know them more.
Especially Harley and Seth, our main protagonists who, despite their opposing personalities (Harley more quietly introspective and Seth more open and self aware) made a really good team.
As an introvert myself I was drawn to Harley the most, as her hesitancy in social situations and preference to snuggling up with a book (or fave show) felt so relatable.
But Seth’s golden retriever-esque charm and ability to inspire her to try new things really hit me in the feels too. With an emphasis on community (via Bella, Joy, Nathan and Wren) and self discovery that made Harley and Seth’s banter and dynamics all the more heartwarming.
I’m gonna leave things there, but I can definitely see this helping younger readers process their emotions surrounding dating, heartbreak and learning to be themselves.
Also, thanks to InstaBookTours and Scholastic for the finished copy.
Witty, lighthearted and of emotion. Sophie Jo’s Heartbreak Era navigates the complexities of teen heartbreak with a warmth and relatability that so many will enjoy!
It follows introverted teen Harley, who’s left reeling when Freddie (her boyfriend of four years) breaks up with her. Which spurs her into joining a school support group (called the Recently Dumped Club) that helps students recover from heartbreak.
Where she meets the chaotic and equally heartbroken Seth, who convinces Harley to join him in a fake dating scheme to help both of them win back their exes.
I genuinely loved this!
It’s humorous, heartfelt, and doesn’t shy away from exploring the more nuanced aspects of heartbreak (like shifting emotional priorities, identity struggles and low self worth.)
However, it was the incredible cast of characters that truly stole the show for me. They felt layered and complex (with human flaws) that only made me love getting to know them more.
Especially Harley and Seth, our main protagonists who, despite their opposing personalities (Harley more quietly introspective and Seth more open and self aware) made a really good team.
As an introvert myself I was drawn to Harley the most, as her hesitancy in social situations and preference to snuggling up with a book (or fave show) felt so relatable.
But Seth’s golden retriever-esque charm and ability to inspire her to try new things really hit me in the feels too. With an emphasis on community (via Bella, Joy, Nathan and Wren) and self discovery that made Harley and Seth’s banter and dynamics all the more heartwarming.
I’m gonna leave things there, but I can definitely see this helping younger readers process their emotions surrounding dating, heartbreak and learning to be themselves.
Also, thanks to InstaBookTours and Scholastic for the finished copy.
February 6, 2026
Freddie and Harley were meant to be together forever, until they weren’t anymore.
Knocked for six by a decision she didn’t see coming, Harley was so lost and unable to process what was happening. As far as she knew her and Freddie were jetting off to university together to start the beginning of the rest of their lives.
‘I am confident that even my long-term hero Taylor Alison Swift could not shake this off’ 😂✨
Instead, she joins the Recently Dumped club and oh my gosh, did I love this club? Yes I absolutely did. Harley was so sad, grumpy and distant when she joined this club but honestly she became a butterfly. See what I did there? (If you’ve read it, you’ll get it)😉. So queue the ‘Recently Dumped Club - RSC’ and its members…. Meet Seth, also newly single, dumped by an ex that was disliked by his friends and didn’t like his fish. He instantly got an eye role from Harley because of the whirlwind way he entered the first session, late, loud and named as Harley’s partner for the next 6 weeks.
My favourite part of the book was the journey that Harley and Seth went on together. Their plan to get their exes back was a fun one. There were so many times I really wanted to shake Harley to get her wake up and see what was in front of her. I love the version of Harley that was uncovered and her self discovery was everything. For everyone who was made to feel less or restricted by someone, Harley’s journey was eye opening. I loved the grumpy x sunshine dynamic that Harley and Seth gave us and also their friendship became sweet, loyal and trustworthy. It was what they both needed.
I really enjoyed this! It was so easy to read, was really sweet and despite it being entertaining, it has some surface level serious elements to it about learning to love yourself and to not let someone else dim your shine!
Knocked for six by a decision she didn’t see coming, Harley was so lost and unable to process what was happening. As far as she knew her and Freddie were jetting off to university together to start the beginning of the rest of their lives.
‘I am confident that even my long-term hero Taylor Alison Swift could not shake this off’ 😂✨
Instead, she joins the Recently Dumped club and oh my gosh, did I love this club? Yes I absolutely did. Harley was so sad, grumpy and distant when she joined this club but honestly she became a butterfly. See what I did there? (If you’ve read it, you’ll get it)😉. So queue the ‘Recently Dumped Club - RSC’ and its members…. Meet Seth, also newly single, dumped by an ex that was disliked by his friends and didn’t like his fish. He instantly got an eye role from Harley because of the whirlwind way he entered the first session, late, loud and named as Harley’s partner for the next 6 weeks.
My favourite part of the book was the journey that Harley and Seth went on together. Their plan to get their exes back was a fun one. There were so many times I really wanted to shake Harley to get her wake up and see what was in front of her. I love the version of Harley that was uncovered and her self discovery was everything. For everyone who was made to feel less or restricted by someone, Harley’s journey was eye opening. I loved the grumpy x sunshine dynamic that Harley and Seth gave us and also their friendship became sweet, loyal and trustworthy. It was what they both needed.
I really enjoyed this! It was so easy to read, was really sweet and despite it being entertaining, it has some surface level serious elements to it about learning to love yourself and to not let someone else dim your shine!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
💭 qotd what is your favourite song to listen to, after getting over a break up?
Mine is "somebody that i used to know" or "don't think twice it's alright" 🤣
🚂 BOOK TOUR 🚂
choo choo. It's my stop for "Heartbreak Era" @instabooktours book tour.
- Don't forget to check out the other stops!
Title: Heartbreak Era
Author: Sophie Jo @sophiejowrites
Pages: 336
UK publish date: Available now
Published by @scholastic_uk
⚠️ Protect yourself. Check any trigger warnings before reading.
This was such a feel good coming of age young adult romance.
Harley has only ever been in a relationship with Freddie. She has also only ever had a friendship with Freddie. He was her safety, her home. Her comfort. She turned her whole world to make him happy. So when he tells her she's not enough her world comes crashing down.
After teaming up with her chaotic fellow dumpee at the Heartbreak club, they decide to make their exes jealous. By fake dating.
I felt a kindred spirit in Harley. Introverted, happy with a book, and keeping to a set routine. However. I am nearly 40 and not an 18 year old. At the same time, it is ok to have a quiet life too. We watch Harley step out of her comfort zone and learn to get by without Freddie. The relationship between Seth and Harley was so gentle and endearing. He definitely had me at "love lasagne" this was such a gorgeously cosy, wholesome, cute read about moving on, self healing and looking inwards to what you want rather than making everyone else happy.
You'll love this book if you like books that include;
❤️ Fake dating
🎀 Coming of age
🩷 Ya romance
🥰 Self healing and growing
Will you be adding this to your book shelf? Do you know someone who would love this? Save for later, share for now and comment to let me know 👇🏻👇🏻
Mine is "somebody that i used to know" or "don't think twice it's alright" 🤣
🚂 BOOK TOUR 🚂
choo choo. It's my stop for "Heartbreak Era" @instabooktours book tour.
- Don't forget to check out the other stops!
Title: Heartbreak Era
Author: Sophie Jo @sophiejowrites
Pages: 336
UK publish date: Available now
Published by @scholastic_uk
⚠️ Protect yourself. Check any trigger warnings before reading.
This was such a feel good coming of age young adult romance.
Harley has only ever been in a relationship with Freddie. She has also only ever had a friendship with Freddie. He was her safety, her home. Her comfort. She turned her whole world to make him happy. So when he tells her she's not enough her world comes crashing down.
After teaming up with her chaotic fellow dumpee at the Heartbreak club, they decide to make their exes jealous. By fake dating.
I felt a kindred spirit in Harley. Introverted, happy with a book, and keeping to a set routine. However. I am nearly 40 and not an 18 year old. At the same time, it is ok to have a quiet life too. We watch Harley step out of her comfort zone and learn to get by without Freddie. The relationship between Seth and Harley was so gentle and endearing. He definitely had me at "love lasagne" this was such a gorgeously cosy, wholesome, cute read about moving on, self healing and looking inwards to what you want rather than making everyone else happy.
You'll love this book if you like books that include;
❤️ Fake dating
🎀 Coming of age
🩷 Ya romance
🥰 Self healing and growing
Will you be adding this to your book shelf? Do you know someone who would love this? Save for later, share for now and comment to let me know 👇🏻👇🏻
February 14, 2026
Heartbreak Era is an immensely witty novel about dealing with heartbreak but also about growing up and growing out of some of our friendships and relationships in general.
Harley is very enthusiastic about four-year anniversary with her boyfriend Freddie but she completely doesn't expect to be dumped on that occassion. Even though her whole world seems to fall apart, she follows advice from her fun loving friend Bella and she joins the Recently Dumped Club to deal with her heartbreak and to finally move on.
In the RDC she meets quite disorganised but utterly funny Seth and they both concoct a mischievious plan to get their exes back.
During these two weeks without Freddie Harley starts new friendships, tries new things and when she finally gets her Freddie back something shifts - Harley is no longer a person who only wants to please Freddie, now she is her own person. She knows exactly who she is and what she wants to do.
And a lot of this shift comes thanks to Seth who encouraged Harley and showed her that a relationship means compromise on both sides and not only on one.
I read this book at one sitting. The moment you prioritise the book among all the other things surrounding you, you know it's really good. I think that Sophie Jo is the new Louise Rennison, the one that will deal with serious matters but will still make you laugh your socks off.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a free galley.
Now excuse me, but I have to dive into "Red Flags" (the first novel by Sophie Jo).
Harley is very enthusiastic about four-year anniversary with her boyfriend Freddie but she completely doesn't expect to be dumped on that occassion. Even though her whole world seems to fall apart, she follows advice from her fun loving friend Bella and she joins the Recently Dumped Club to deal with her heartbreak and to finally move on.
In the RDC she meets quite disorganised but utterly funny Seth and they both concoct a mischievious plan to get their exes back.
During these two weeks without Freddie Harley starts new friendships, tries new things and when she finally gets her Freddie back something shifts - Harley is no longer a person who only wants to please Freddie, now she is her own person. She knows exactly who she is and what she wants to do.
And a lot of this shift comes thanks to Seth who encouraged Harley and showed her that a relationship means compromise on both sides and not only on one.
I read this book at one sitting. The moment you prioritise the book among all the other things surrounding you, you know it's really good. I think that Sophie Jo is the new Louise Rennison, the one that will deal with serious matters but will still make you laugh your socks off.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a free galley.
Now excuse me, but I have to dive into "Red Flags" (the first novel by Sophie Jo).
February 7, 2026
Heartbreak Era feels incredibly relevant for right now - sharp, funny, and emotionally honest in a way that spans generations. It’s the kind of book I’d happily hand to my 15-year-old daughter, knowing she’d enjoy it while also feeling deeply seen. Sophie Jo has a gift for capturing the inner world of teenagers with warmth and insight, and reading it as an adult is both entertaining and unexpectedly nostalgic.
The story follows Harley and Seth, two recently heartbroken teens who are determined to do anything to win back their exes. Even though the destination feels clear early on, the journey is so enjoyable that I found myself racing through the pages faster than I have with any book in a long time. That’s a testament to Sophie Jo’s writing: effortlessly funny without trying too hard, packed with pop-culture references, and full of comical observations that felt like things I’d say or think myself.
Harley, in particular, is one of my favourite characters Sophie Jo has written - I related to her immediately, and she felt achingly real. Overall, Heartbreak Era strikes the perfect balance between humour, heart, and emotional intelligence. It understands teenage relationships without mocking them, and it reminds older readers exactly what it felt like to experience love and heartbreak for the first time. A genuinely enjoyable, laugh-out-loud, and surprisingly tender read. 💔📖
The story follows Harley and Seth, two recently heartbroken teens who are determined to do anything to win back their exes. Even though the destination feels clear early on, the journey is so enjoyable that I found myself racing through the pages faster than I have with any book in a long time. That’s a testament to Sophie Jo’s writing: effortlessly funny without trying too hard, packed with pop-culture references, and full of comical observations that felt like things I’d say or think myself.
Harley, in particular, is one of my favourite characters Sophie Jo has written - I related to her immediately, and she felt achingly real. Overall, Heartbreak Era strikes the perfect balance between humour, heart, and emotional intelligence. It understands teenage relationships without mocking them, and it reminds older readers exactly what it felt like to experience love and heartbreak for the first time. A genuinely enjoyable, laugh-out-loud, and surprisingly tender read. 💔📖
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a funny, heart-warming, and thoughtful book that I devoured whole. Weirdly relevant to my own life right now;(Except that I’m a 35 yr old, old woman staying in with her books and old people TV shows, not 18 anymore and boy does my lower back know it), Harley is a character whose life has been turned upside and left her adrift and alone having been dumped from a co-dependent relationship. Miserable and alone she ends up joining her sixth form’s newly formed Recently Dumped Club.
As she and the other members work through their pain and grief, she forms a relationship with Seth and they set out on a fake dating mission to win back their exes…
Obviously hi-jinks and chaos ensue but so to does genuine connection and really enjoyable character growth as Harley and Seth figure out their relationships, make new friends, and make you snort laugh/yell WHAT ARE YOU PLAYING AT as they go.
I loved this book and loved how wholesome Seth and Harley are, even when they’re on weird messed up mission their “fake” relationship is somehow more wholesome goals than either of the relationships they want back.
A mjust read for any teenager, it’s just a shame the straight boys won’t.
As she and the other members work through their pain and grief, she forms a relationship with Seth and they set out on a fake dating mission to win back their exes…
Obviously hi-jinks and chaos ensue but so to does genuine connection and really enjoyable character growth as Harley and Seth figure out their relationships, make new friends, and make you snort laugh/yell WHAT ARE YOU PLAYING AT as they go.
I loved this book and loved how wholesome Seth and Harley are, even when they’re on weird messed up mission their “fake” relationship is somehow more wholesome goals than either of the relationships they want back.
A mjust read for any teenager, it’s just a shame the straight boys won’t.
February 18, 2026
I’ve just turned the last page, read the last sentence and I’m still buzzing. This ride is such an emotional rollercoaster. Sophie Jo gets the ‘end of the world’ feeling of a breakup at its sweet spot. Seeing Harley’s world crashing on her four year anniversary with Freddie was just heartbreaking. Felt a bit of Seth’s pain seeing Gen move on with Jake.
As a YA Contemporary Rom-Com this book hits all the best tropes as fake dating - the plan formed between Harley and Seth was an an absolute masterpiece, especially with that ‘he falls first’ vibes.
The highlight for me had to be the Improv Society - specifically those scenes in the school cafeteria. Doing improv in front of everyone is brave enough, but in that setting? It was hilarious and brilliant at the same time. I loved Wren and how wise is for her age. I don’t forger the rainbow fish Jonathan.
It’s raw, it’s funny, and a perfect reminder that life goes on after a heartbreak.
As a YA Contemporary Rom-Com this book hits all the best tropes as fake dating - the plan formed between Harley and Seth was an an absolute masterpiece, especially with that ‘he falls first’ vibes.
The highlight for me had to be the Improv Society - specifically those scenes in the school cafeteria. Doing improv in front of everyone is brave enough, but in that setting? It was hilarious and brilliant at the same time. I loved Wren and how wise is for her age. I don’t forger the rainbow fish Jonathan.
It’s raw, it’s funny, and a perfect reminder that life goes on after a heartbreak.
February 14, 2026
A heartfelt but fun rom con about break ups and discovering who you are and what you want, not prioritising your partner’s. I adored the slightly chaotic Seth who embraced Harley for who she is and supporting her journey for what she wants. I loved the way Harley also saw Seth underneath his chronic lateness and messiness that bugged his ex. Those two were so perfect for each other, while being realistic that they’re 18 and have a lot of growing and changing to do. I also loved all the supporting characters including Bella, Joy, Nate, Dahlia and the other Recently Dumped Club members.
Loved this. It was so well paced and plotted with characters I wish I knew at 18. Maybe just maybe one day Sophie will write some sequels set 10/15 years later to see where Seth and Harley land (and perhaps her Red Flags characters too).
Loved this. It was so well paced and plotted with characters I wish I knew at 18. Maybe just maybe one day Sophie will write some sequels set 10/15 years later to see where Seth and Harley land (and perhaps her Red Flags characters too).
March 1, 2026
As a 51-year-old male, I’m maybe not the target audience for a YA book about relationships - but therein lies the genius of Sophie Jo’s writing. Anyone and everyone can find relatable personality traits in these characters, and there’s a reason for that: she writes about normal people who live in a normal world, like all of us. That doesn’t make it boring - quite the opposite. It resonates so deeply that you’re invested from the very start.
Heartbreak Era was a really fun read with great characters - Harley, my long-lost daughter perhaps? I mainly read crime fiction, so it was a refreshing change to read a book that had me smiling so much and rooting for happy, non-death endings. Work and sleep got in the way, otherwise I’d have stocked up on energy drinks and read it in one sitting. One last comment: please tell me there’s a follow-up Wren story coming!
Heartbreak Era was a really fun read with great characters - Harley, my long-lost daughter perhaps? I mainly read crime fiction, so it was a refreshing change to read a book that had me smiling so much and rooting for happy, non-death endings. Work and sleep got in the way, otherwise I’d have stocked up on energy drinks and read it in one sitting. One last comment: please tell me there’s a follow-up Wren story coming!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nothing I love more than a YA romance.
There’s just one thing about this genre that makes me feel all warm and cozy inside, and when done right like Sophie has in the novel it’s a genre I easily devour. This was such a fun read, from the man character Harley who I’m sure we can all relate to at some point in our lives to the plot which was so unique and interesting to follow.
This novel had it all, from heart break to love I enjoyed getting to read about our fmc rise from the ashes of being dumped and into someone who knows she can stand on her own, the humour sprinkled in was perfect and felt super authentic this authenticity also leads me to the ending which while not traditional I loved.
There’s just one thing about this genre that makes me feel all warm and cozy inside, and when done right like Sophie has in the novel it’s a genre I easily devour. This was such a fun read, from the man character Harley who I’m sure we can all relate to at some point in our lives to the plot which was so unique and interesting to follow.
This novel had it all, from heart break to love I enjoyed getting to read about our fmc rise from the ashes of being dumped and into someone who knows she can stand on her own, the humour sprinkled in was perfect and felt super authentic this authenticity also leads me to the ending which while not traditional I loved.
February 17, 2026
Another brilliantly witty and heartwarming story from Sophie Jo!
There were so many reasons why I couldn't put it down. It's such a well-paced book, zipping along while striking a perfect balance of humour and emotion. Harley, Seth and the whole cast of characters feel authentic, relatable and so original at the same time - they had so many little awkward-teenager moments that had me going "gah, SAME", while still being so fleshed-out that I constantly wanted to get to know more about them and their loves for Midsomer Murders/tropical fish/etc.
I always finish Sophie Jo's books a) wishing they'd existed when I was a teenager, and b) feeling very glad that teenagers today get to read and feel comforted by these lovely books about navigating young relationships.
There were so many reasons why I couldn't put it down. It's such a well-paced book, zipping along while striking a perfect balance of humour and emotion. Harley, Seth and the whole cast of characters feel authentic, relatable and so original at the same time - they had so many little awkward-teenager moments that had me going "gah, SAME", while still being so fleshed-out that I constantly wanted to get to know more about them and their loves for Midsomer Murders/tropical fish/etc.
I always finish Sophie Jo's books a) wishing they'd existed when I was a teenager, and b) feeling very glad that teenagers today get to read and feel comforted by these lovely books about navigating young relationships.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Harley and Freddie have been going out since Year 9 and they’d made plans to go away to uni together, so Harley is blindsided when Freddie brutally dumps her on their four-year anniversary. Depressed and lonely, she joins the ‘Recently Dumped’ club at college and there she meets chaotic Seth who is pining for his ex-girlfriend. Neither of them are ready to accept the end of their relationships and so they hatch a fake-dating plan to lure their exes back with jealousy.
I was concerned about Harley leaping from one long-term relationship straight into another, but the author does address this issue and the message is very much about Harley learning who she is, what she wants, and expanding her friendships, rather than just submerging her identity in another romantic relationship.
This is an engaging, well-written and relatable romance about growing into the person you are meant to be in the context of teenage relationships - a great one for the school library.
Thanks to Scholastic for the ARC.
I was concerned about Harley leaping from one long-term relationship straight into another, but the author does address this issue and the message is very much about Harley learning who she is, what she wants, and expanding her friendships, rather than just submerging her identity in another romantic relationship.
This is an engaging, well-written and relatable romance about growing into the person you are meant to be in the context of teenage relationships - a great one for the school library.
Thanks to Scholastic for the ARC.
February 12, 2026
This was such a wonderful story of growing up and having your whole life ahead of you, what happens when you think you know exactly how your life will go only for the rug to pulled from under you and you have to move on? I loved Harley and especially Seth, I thought this would be a run of the mill rom com only for it to hit a little deeper for me, A great follow up book from Red Flags which i also adored!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
After 4 years together, Harley and Freddies relationship comes to an end. Despite planning to go to university as one, and mapping out their whole future together, Freddie is looking for something more adventurous. Harley is left heartbroken and seeks solace in the lunchtime sixth form Recently Dumped Club.
With peers who understand how she feels and navigating their own heartbreak, she starts to find comfort and understand herself more.
Then she meets Seth. He's chaotic, he's cute, he's a bit of an awkward storm; and when they are partnered together for the sessions, he helps her to realise that she is capable of fun and spontaneity.
This book is everything you expect from a YA romcom. It is like a big warm hug. Heartbreak Era navigates the heartbreak that i'm sure we have all felt at some point, especially in our teenage years. It teaches that sometimes people grow apart, and there's no blame, it's just life. This book is quirky and fun, but the underlying themes and lessons are so relatable.
I adore Harleys character, and felt the heartbreak alongside her. I loved seeing her character bloom as the book went on, when she threw herself out of her comfort zone and just enjoyed the opportunities presented to her. As well as the relationships in this book, the friendship dynamics are also beautiful. Surrounded by the right people, even the most painful experiences are manageable.
With peers who understand how she feels and navigating their own heartbreak, she starts to find comfort and understand herself more.
Then she meets Seth. He's chaotic, he's cute, he's a bit of an awkward storm; and when they are partnered together for the sessions, he helps her to realise that she is capable of fun and spontaneity.
This book is everything you expect from a YA romcom. It is like a big warm hug. Heartbreak Era navigates the heartbreak that i'm sure we have all felt at some point, especially in our teenage years. It teaches that sometimes people grow apart, and there's no blame, it's just life. This book is quirky and fun, but the underlying themes and lessons are so relatable.
I adore Harleys character, and felt the heartbreak alongside her. I loved seeing her character bloom as the book went on, when she threw herself out of her comfort zone and just enjoyed the opportunities presented to her. As well as the relationships in this book, the friendship dynamics are also beautiful. Surrounded by the right people, even the most painful experiences are manageable.
January 29, 2026
For a ya this was such a bop.
Not to complicated and SHORT!!! Thank god! If you are a ya romance fan defo worth reading.
Thank you to the publisher for this proof.
Not to complicated and SHORT!!! Thank god! If you are a ya romance fan defo worth reading.
Thank you to the publisher for this proof.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is going to be such an important read for teen girls. I like that it had to say about making decisions for yourself and living the life you want
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