What do you think?
Rate this book
The Other Side of Forever
Singer-songwriter Kenzie McCall thrives on freedom—writing what she wants, when she wants, for whoever she wants, with no strings attached. Deadlines? Not her thing. Commitment? Even less so. But when a movie studio offers her best friend, pop sensation Braxton, a starring role if Kenzie writes the theme song, she reluctantly agrees. There’s just one the song has to be about love, and Kenzie has never truly fallen for anyone.
Rachel has life mapped white picket fence, two kids, a dog, and a marriage filled with spark—and is determined to find someone who wants the same future. When Rachel hears Kenzie sing for the first time, the connection is instant, electric, and impossible to ignore. But how can she plan a future with someone whose life is anything but stable? Kenzie is constantly jetting off to meet with celebrities, and Rachel’s cozy suburban dream feels like Kenzie’s worst nightmare.
Will they be able to write their love story together, or are they destined for different endings?
Rachel has life mapped white picket fence, two kids, a dog, and a marriage filled with spark—and is determined to find someone who wants the same future. When Rachel hears Kenzie sing for the first time, the connection is instant, electric, and impossible to ignore. But how can she plan a future with someone whose life is anything but stable? Kenzie is constantly jetting off to meet with celebrities, and Rachel’s cozy suburban dream feels like Kenzie’s worst nightmare.
Will they be able to write their love story together, or are they destined for different endings?
242 pages, Paperback
Published November 11, 2025
37 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 30, 2025
2.5 rounded up
I didn’t vibe with it most of the time. It felt pretty repetitive with the same issue happening over and over again with no resolution because the two MCs wouldn’t have a serious conversation about the issue. Or if they did it went nowhere.
There was a lot of sex scenes, and while I do like books with some spice, there was SO much of it instead of figuring things out and talking about their feelings.
It was all a bit underwhelming during the whole thing and the characters didn’t feel connected. Rachel has major control issues yet won’t control any situation really, and Kenzie makes decisions on a whim and is pretty irresponsible.
I was expecting a 3rd act break up, but I didn’t love the fact that at the end of them making up they get engaged after weeks of no communication. Like they JUST had a small conversation about getting back together and trying, then a ring is pulled out?
I liked the idea of the storyline, but nothing felt like it lined up right.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the ARC!
I didn’t vibe with it most of the time. It felt pretty repetitive with the same issue happening over and over again with no resolution because the two MCs wouldn’t have a serious conversation about the issue. Or if they did it went nowhere.
There was a lot of sex scenes, and while I do like books with some spice, there was SO much of it instead of figuring things out and talking about their feelings.
It was all a bit underwhelming during the whole thing and the characters didn’t feel connected. Rachel has major control issues yet won’t control any situation really, and Kenzie makes decisions on a whim and is pretty irresponsible.
I was expecting a 3rd act break up, but I didn’t love the fact that at the end of them making up they get engaged after weeks of no communication. Like they JUST had a small conversation about getting back together and trying, then a ring is pulled out?
I liked the idea of the storyline, but nothing felt like it lined up right.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
I found the blurb really interesting and was so excited to read the book. The encounter between musician Kenzie and lawyer Rachel was thrilling. The chemistry was great, and I was especially looking forward to the combination of attraction and music. But at some point, the plot lost me. There was a lot of back and forth between the two, which isn't bad in itself, but it repeated itself over and over again. The two women were quite different and had different ideas about life, which they both knew before their relationship. And yet they kept arguing about it. I found both of them to be very selfish at times and wondered why they were together at all.
The basic framework of the plot was good, but I really felt that Kenzie and Rachel were stuck in a rut in their relationship for a long time. Sometimes I would have liked to give them a push in the right direction. In the end, I found the events to be rather rushed, and then suddenly all the problems were solved? It didn't feel real.
It was an okay read. No more, no less. I couldn’t really connect to that story.
Thank you an NetGalley for the ARC!
The basic framework of the plot was good, but I really felt that Kenzie and Rachel were stuck in a rut in their relationship for a long time. Sometimes I would have liked to give them a push in the right direction. In the end, I found the events to be rather rushed, and then suddenly all the problems were solved? It didn't feel real.
It was an okay read. No more, no less. I couldn’t really connect to that story.
Thank you an NetGalley for the ARC!
November 10, 2025
A sapphic romance about an ambitious singer-songwriter who doesn’t want to be tied down and a lawyer who wants a wife and kids? You had me at sapphic romance. Couples that are opposites intrigue me and I love them, so I was looking forward to getting my hands on this one. Rachel and Kenzie had chemistry at the beginning of the relationship, but over time, the connection felt like it weakened, and the repetitive conflicts had something to do with it. The pace was faster than I would’ve liked and overall it just felt a bit messy. While some of the conflict gave it a realistic feel, there were other things that just seemed out there even for a romance. Major life-changing decisions before reaching the year mark? Pshh. Miss me.
I needed Rachel and Kenzie to properly communicate and not repeatedly brush over their plans for the future. The back and forth conflict about the same thing sounded like a broken record that became tiring to listen to. I had mixed feelings about them and I questioned the strength of their relationship because their goals didn’t really align. Where one was ready for a family right out of the gates, the other was career-focused, but this wasn’t news to them. If the same conflict wasn’t on repeat and the pace was a bit slower, I think it could’ve helped the book.
One of my favorite things about romances is rooting for the couples to get their HEA, but I didn’t do that here. Throughout the book I just kept asking myself ‘why are they together?’ but by the end of it I didn’t have an answer. The book had potential, but it missed the mark for me.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
I needed Rachel and Kenzie to properly communicate and not repeatedly brush over their plans for the future. The back and forth conflict about the same thing sounded like a broken record that became tiring to listen to. I had mixed feelings about them and I questioned the strength of their relationship because their goals didn’t really align. Where one was ready for a family right out of the gates, the other was career-focused, but this wasn’t news to them. If the same conflict wasn’t on repeat and the pace was a bit slower, I think it could’ve helped the book.
One of my favorite things about romances is rooting for the couples to get their HEA, but I didn’t do that here. Throughout the book I just kept asking myself ‘why are they together?’ but by the end of it I didn’t have an answer. The book had potential, but it missed the mark for me.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
November 21, 2025
3.5⭐️
I liked the initial interaction between these two—the attraction, the flirting. I was surprised to see that a lot of the book was them trying to work things out as a couple, which was refreshing. There were some lengths in between, like them always being interrupted and not being able to seal the deal. Both characters are layered and very different: Rachel being a controlling Type A, while Kenzie tended to live in her own way without thinking of how it could affect Rachel. What they want in life is also different, besides kids. Their dynamic was interesting, and there was a decent amount of spice. The ending felt rushed because they had a lot of issues, and I wanted to see more of how the two of them made it work, besides just deciding it. It was an enjoyable read, but a few more chapters with them really working things out and truly talking were missing.
I liked the initial interaction between these two—the attraction, the flirting. I was surprised to see that a lot of the book was them trying to work things out as a couple, which was refreshing. There were some lengths in between, like them always being interrupted and not being able to seal the deal. Both characters are layered and very different: Rachel being a controlling Type A, while Kenzie tended to live in her own way without thinking of how it could affect Rachel. What they want in life is also different, besides kids. Their dynamic was interesting, and there was a decent amount of spice. The ending felt rushed because they had a lot of issues, and I wanted to see more of how the two of them made it work, besides just deciding it. It was an enjoyable read, but a few more chapters with them really working things out and truly talking were missing.
October 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
I was really excited to read this due to the fact that the MC’s focus on wanting kids would be prevalent. I feel like a lot of sapphic romance books briefly mention whether they want kids or not-- and it’s more often not. It is refreshing to see that is the focus of the story and something that the MC talks about and takes into consideration when dating. I am in a similar boat where I’m thirty and any relationship I enter in, I have to be cognizant of timelines and their ultimate goals. If someone doesn’t want kids, I’m not wasting my time. Do I maybe think too far ahead into the future like Rachel? You bet. Do I see how ridiculous I sound after reading it out loud and reading it in a book? Yes. Because how are we only dating a few months and you’re talking about going to a fertility clinic with this woman? You are constantly asking how y’all’s life will work out, but never really having a discussion about it. Even the “talk” they had in the middle of the night wasn’t that deep, it was just reiterating what they both wanted, but no discussion on how to achieve it or how it is going to look moving forward. It was kind of wild to read, but they are lesbians after all.
While the book took place over a year or so, I believe, a lot of it felt rushed. The chemistry between the characters was there but I do feel like it went too fast. Overall, I liked the plot of the story and the writing was good, but I do feel like there was more telling than showing. This made it feel like less time had gone by and gave less of an opportunity for more chemistry to shine through.
The back and forth between the two main characters was realistic, but it got stale, fast. I found myself a little bored with the reoccurring issues Rachel had with Kenzie. Yes, some of it was valid, but a lot of it came off as a jealous type or someone who didn’t want their partner to be successful. Rachel’s sister pointed it out perfectly with her example of if Kenzie was a lawyer and got on the Supreme Court. The hypocrisy of Rachel’s stance was irritating.
The ending felt too rushed and I feel like the loose ends weren’t wrapped up. I really feel like this could’ve been an amazing story, but ultimately, it fell short.
I was really excited to read this due to the fact that the MC’s focus on wanting kids would be prevalent. I feel like a lot of sapphic romance books briefly mention whether they want kids or not-- and it’s more often not. It is refreshing to see that is the focus of the story and something that the MC talks about and takes into consideration when dating. I am in a similar boat where I’m thirty and any relationship I enter in, I have to be cognizant of timelines and their ultimate goals. If someone doesn’t want kids, I’m not wasting my time. Do I maybe think too far ahead into the future like Rachel? You bet. Do I see how ridiculous I sound after reading it out loud and reading it in a book? Yes. Because how are we only dating a few months and you’re talking about going to a fertility clinic with this woman? You are constantly asking how y’all’s life will work out, but never really having a discussion about it. Even the “talk” they had in the middle of the night wasn’t that deep, it was just reiterating what they both wanted, but no discussion on how to achieve it or how it is going to look moving forward. It was kind of wild to read, but they are lesbians after all.
While the book took place over a year or so, I believe, a lot of it felt rushed. The chemistry between the characters was there but I do feel like it went too fast. Overall, I liked the plot of the story and the writing was good, but I do feel like there was more telling than showing. This made it feel like less time had gone by and gave less of an opportunity for more chemistry to shine through.
The back and forth between the two main characters was realistic, but it got stale, fast. I found myself a little bored with the reoccurring issues Rachel had with Kenzie. Yes, some of it was valid, but a lot of it came off as a jealous type or someone who didn’t want their partner to be successful. Rachel’s sister pointed it out perfectly with her example of if Kenzie was a lawyer and got on the Supreme Court. The hypocrisy of Rachel’s stance was irritating.
The ending felt too rushed and I feel like the loose ends weren’t wrapped up. I really feel like this could’ve been an amazing story, but ultimately, it fell short.
October 29, 2025
I wasn't sure about requesting this one from NetGalley and BSB, but I decided to take a chance on a new-to-me author. It didn't really pay off this time. I mean, I didn't hate anything about the story or the characters. They just didn't seem to fit well together.
We've got Kenzie who, honestly, seems selfish and wrapped up in her career too much to give Rachel what she needs. Then we've got Rachel. I'm not even sure how I feel about her. She knows what she wants out of life - and it's centered around her family and building her own - and Kenzie doesn't want any of it. Except maybe kids. And Kenzie keeps making decisions without Rachel that should have been breaking points for the relationship.
Sure, they had some chemistry, but I never got the feeling that these two women should be together, let alone be able to compromise and respect each other enough to make it last.
On a side note, it didn't make me feel good to see the author gave herself 5 stars on Goodreads for her book. In our little genre, even the smallest bit of padding of ratings feels unfair to the readers who rely on them.
I'll get off my soapbox now...
Anyway, This one didn't really work for me but it was okay. Thus the three stars.
Thanks to BSB and NetGalley for the ARC.
We've got Kenzie who, honestly, seems selfish and wrapped up in her career too much to give Rachel what she needs. Then we've got Rachel. I'm not even sure how I feel about her. She knows what she wants out of life - and it's centered around her family and building her own - and Kenzie doesn't want any of it. Except maybe kids. And Kenzie keeps making decisions without Rachel that should have been breaking points for the relationship.
Sure, they had some chemistry, but I never got the feeling that these two women should be together, let alone be able to compromise and respect each other enough to make it last.
On a side note, it didn't make me feel good to see the author gave herself 5 stars on Goodreads for her book. In our little genre, even the smallest bit of padding of ratings feels unfair to the readers who rely on them.
I'll get off my soapbox now...
Anyway, This one didn't really work for me but it was okay. Thus the three stars.
Thanks to BSB and NetGalley for the ARC.
November 11, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Kenzie loves the freedom she has but the one thing she hasn’t done is actually fall in love. Rachel has her life mapped out and knows she won’t get it with her ex. Kenzie and Rachel meets and surprise by the instant attraction as they start getting to know each other as they enjoy each other Rachel starts to see while she loves Kenzie lifestyle she wonders will Kenzie wants the life she wants. I like Rachel character and knowing what she wants and stick to it like Kenzie also wanting a career and falling in love first time. They both have chemistry but I think the talk they had should’ve been more deeper because it’s was more retaliating what they want and not talking how combine their lives together. It’s a cute read a bit frustrating at times.
Kenzie loves the freedom she has but the one thing she hasn’t done is actually fall in love. Rachel has her life mapped out and knows she won’t get it with her ex. Kenzie and Rachel meets and surprise by the instant attraction as they start getting to know each other as they enjoy each other Rachel starts to see while she loves Kenzie lifestyle she wonders will Kenzie wants the life she wants. I like Rachel character and knowing what she wants and stick to it like Kenzie also wanting a career and falling in love first time. They both have chemistry but I think the talk they had should’ve been more deeper because it’s was more retaliating what they want and not talking how combine their lives together. It’s a cute read a bit frustrating at times.
October 29, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
kenzie mccall is just wanting her big break..... she writes songs and performs for a living and though her songs are successful others sing them. so she keeps plugging away
rachel is a successful lawyer but her dream is to be a mother with a white picket fence the whole 9 yards.... and she cant think why she cant have that
so when kenzie and rachel meet they are both not expecting the attraction to be so immense.....
and at first rachel loves the lifestyle but soon it becomes apparent that if they were to be in the future then things are going to have to change... but who will....
i have to admit i never warmed up to rachel at all during this book.... i found her very hard to like but i loved kenzies character but what a rollercoaster of a ride this book gives you... certainly an eye opener
kenzie mccall is just wanting her big break..... she writes songs and performs for a living and though her songs are successful others sing them. so she keeps plugging away
rachel is a successful lawyer but her dream is to be a mother with a white picket fence the whole 9 yards.... and she cant think why she cant have that
so when kenzie and rachel meet they are both not expecting the attraction to be so immense.....
and at first rachel loves the lifestyle but soon it becomes apparent that if they were to be in the future then things are going to have to change... but who will....
i have to admit i never warmed up to rachel at all during this book.... i found her very hard to like but i loved kenzies character but what a rollercoaster of a ride this book gives you... certainly an eye opener
December 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this story about two very different women who fall in love and realise they might need to compromise to make their love work. The opening was very good, setting the scene and introducing the MCs. That the characters might be considered ‘opposites’ made for an interesting relationship development. Some interesting life’s lessons about not being so set in embracing your particular forever. Well-written with a romantic ending.
November 13, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Books and author Kel McCord for this ARC opportunity. I am happily leaving my honest review.
The Other Side of Forever is an emotional and moving sapphic romance about falling and love and learning how to keep what you want in life in perspective. This book was a really enjoyable read for me and dealt with real life subject matters that are often left undiscussed or ignored altogether. I found this story to be a really sweet and tender romance that deals with the messiness of life and reminds us that anything good is worth fighting for.
Kenzie is a singer song writer whose only real commitment in life is to her career…and even then she strives to have everything be on her terms. She is tasked with writing a love song without ever being in love and that is our backdrop to the central love story. Kenzie is spontaneous, talented and exudes a sense of joy for life that I really liked. She meets Rachel, an attorney through and through…she’s a planner, a scheduler and thrives in commitment. Rachel knows what she wants in life and I can definitely respect that. I did enjoy that the central conflict of having children and settling down is realistic, believable and for many, relatable.
I felt that Kenzie and Rachel really couldn't be more different, but I guess opposites to attract. Kenzie is vibrant and rather impulsive. She’s an artist, a musician and a pretty darn good one. Her music isn't just what she does, it is who she is. I didn't really read her as a flake or totally resistant to commitment but more so dedicated to her craft. Her music career kind of forces her to travel and move around. I actually found her to be quite committed…but to her career. Her character achieves the most profound changes, in my opinion. She has the greatest evolution and her love for Rachel fuels her toward an introspection that forces tremendous growth. Rachel didn't come across as quite so stunted or immovable as I’d feared. She's confident in herself and what she wishes to get out of life. But I did find that she was open to growth and change for the right reasons. The chemistry between Kenzie and Rachel was immediate and only grew. They both kind of exhibited a sort of patience that allowed their love to mature. I loved them together. I felt like Rachel was the Yin to Kenzie’s yang and they seemed to complete each other.
McCord does an excellent job at carefully crafting characters that I care about and would be friends with. The writing style is so easy to read but still has complexities that I appreciated. I felt like the word choice was deliberate and so romantic. I really enjoyed the pacing and was appreciative of the love scenes. I am a big proponent of intimate scenes in wlw stories that I read because I truly feel they help me to believe in the romance. The steamy scenes were sensual and quite tender. Overall, we watch our two leading ladies traverse a great many of life's obstacles. It wasn’t just easy and smooth but the messiness made it realistic. The complications added a sense of real life drama. McCord presented us with an organic and sincere love story that shows us all that things don't have to be perfect for love to be real.
I enjoyed this book and will definitely continue to look for more from this author. I felt that this story was not only about falling in love but also about how to make room for it in your life. I loved the music element so much! The songwriting aspect culminating with Kenzie’s love song about the woman she loved was lovely. I would recommend this for all lovers of contemporary sapphic romance with emotional depth and real life messiness. If you enjoy a good opposites attract story with a lot of heart, steam, and swoon worthy love then this is for you.
The Other Side of Forever is an emotional and moving sapphic romance about falling and love and learning how to keep what you want in life in perspective. This book was a really enjoyable read for me and dealt with real life subject matters that are often left undiscussed or ignored altogether. I found this story to be a really sweet and tender romance that deals with the messiness of life and reminds us that anything good is worth fighting for.
Kenzie is a singer song writer whose only real commitment in life is to her career…and even then she strives to have everything be on her terms. She is tasked with writing a love song without ever being in love and that is our backdrop to the central love story. Kenzie is spontaneous, talented and exudes a sense of joy for life that I really liked. She meets Rachel, an attorney through and through…she’s a planner, a scheduler and thrives in commitment. Rachel knows what she wants in life and I can definitely respect that. I did enjoy that the central conflict of having children and settling down is realistic, believable and for many, relatable.
I felt that Kenzie and Rachel really couldn't be more different, but I guess opposites to attract. Kenzie is vibrant and rather impulsive. She’s an artist, a musician and a pretty darn good one. Her music isn't just what she does, it is who she is. I didn't really read her as a flake or totally resistant to commitment but more so dedicated to her craft. Her music career kind of forces her to travel and move around. I actually found her to be quite committed…but to her career. Her character achieves the most profound changes, in my opinion. She has the greatest evolution and her love for Rachel fuels her toward an introspection that forces tremendous growth. Rachel didn't come across as quite so stunted or immovable as I’d feared. She's confident in herself and what she wishes to get out of life. But I did find that she was open to growth and change for the right reasons. The chemistry between Kenzie and Rachel was immediate and only grew. They both kind of exhibited a sort of patience that allowed their love to mature. I loved them together. I felt like Rachel was the Yin to Kenzie’s yang and they seemed to complete each other.
McCord does an excellent job at carefully crafting characters that I care about and would be friends with. The writing style is so easy to read but still has complexities that I appreciated. I felt like the word choice was deliberate and so romantic. I really enjoyed the pacing and was appreciative of the love scenes. I am a big proponent of intimate scenes in wlw stories that I read because I truly feel they help me to believe in the romance. The steamy scenes were sensual and quite tender. Overall, we watch our two leading ladies traverse a great many of life's obstacles. It wasn’t just easy and smooth but the messiness made it realistic. The complications added a sense of real life drama. McCord presented us with an organic and sincere love story that shows us all that things don't have to be perfect for love to be real.
I enjoyed this book and will definitely continue to look for more from this author. I felt that this story was not only about falling in love but also about how to make room for it in your life. I loved the music element so much! The songwriting aspect culminating with Kenzie’s love song about the woman she loved was lovely. I would recommend this for all lovers of contemporary sapphic romance with emotional depth and real life messiness. If you enjoy a good opposites attract story with a lot of heart, steam, and swoon worthy love then this is for you.
November 9, 2025
The Other Side of Forever packs an emotional punch under the trope of twin swapping in a surprisingly soft way. It nails its beats and the characters breathe and grow as one struggles to find a new purpose and spark, while the other overcomes a cynical world view.
Unlike a lot of romance stories, Kel McCord doesn't hold back in making the characters determined and focused on their dreams, almost to the point of selfishness. While it doesn't make either character any more lovable, it does make them imminently more realistic and relatable. So much happens, a lot of the text feels very simple and rapid-fire, not giving us time to breathe as we're rushed through it, but I imagine that's how they felt about their whirlwind romance, too.
It certainly feels intentional, both characters so focused on what they want, neither stop to reflect on their relationship as it grows except for these glimpses of internality at the edge of each chapter. Nonetheless, I would have loved more internal monologue and feelings throughout. Kenzie, free spirited singer, and Rachel, meticulous lawyer, don't seem like they should have a lot in common. I found Kenzie so endearing it hurt, she certainly stole my heart! We're teased with missed chances and false starts repeatedly and it is such a relief when their romance finally takes off (sadly, the spice when we get it, is middling at best).
The realistic piling up of little things that finally breaks the proverbial camel's back and forces both characters to self-reflect might hit a little close to home for some people. Thankfully, Kel builds us up to an emotionally charged act three that left me unexpectedly bawling because of some blue tape.
While there's a happily ever after, these are messy characters and communication isn't their strong suit. As always, thank you Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for the book for review consideration via NetGalley and it is written with full honesty.
Unlike a lot of romance stories, Kel McCord doesn't hold back in making the characters determined and focused on their dreams, almost to the point of selfishness. While it doesn't make either character any more lovable, it does make them imminently more realistic and relatable. So much happens, a lot of the text feels very simple and rapid-fire, not giving us time to breathe as we're rushed through it, but I imagine that's how they felt about their whirlwind romance, too.
It certainly feels intentional, both characters so focused on what they want, neither stop to reflect on their relationship as it grows except for these glimpses of internality at the edge of each chapter. Nonetheless, I would have loved more internal monologue and feelings throughout. Kenzie, free spirited singer, and Rachel, meticulous lawyer, don't seem like they should have a lot in common. I found Kenzie so endearing it hurt, she certainly stole my heart! We're teased with missed chances and false starts repeatedly and it is such a relief when their romance finally takes off (sadly, the spice when we get it, is middling at best).
The realistic piling up of little things that finally breaks the proverbial camel's back and forces both characters to self-reflect might hit a little close to home for some people. Thankfully, Kel builds us up to an emotionally charged act three that left me unexpectedly bawling because of some blue tape.
While there's a happily ever after, these are messy characters and communication isn't their strong suit. As always, thank you Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for the book for review consideration via NetGalley and it is written with full honesty.
December 19, 2025
The Other Side of Forever drew me in with its blurb, but my overall experience was mixed. The chemistry between Kenzie and Rachel is clear and often compelling, and the writing itself is smooth, romantic, and easy to read. The music element—Kenzie as a singer-songwriter tasked with writing a love song without having been in love—was a strong and appealing backdrop, and the intimate scenes were well written, tender, and effective at conveying attraction.
Where the story struggled for me was in the central conflict. Kenzie and Rachel communicate frequently, yet their fundamentally different life goals—particularly around settling down and having children—remain largely unresolved. The tension felt repetitive rather than progressive, making the predictable third-act breakup and quick reconciliation feel rushed. After weeks of no contact, the resolution focused on the least impactful part of their disagreement, leaving the deeper lifestyle incompatibilities insufficiently addressed.
That said, many readers will appreciate the opposites-attract dynamic. Kenzie’s dedication to her music and evolving self-awareness give her the strongest character arc, while Rachel’s stability and openness to growth balance the relationship. The story embraces real-life messiness, a touch of angst, and ultimately delivers a sweet HEA that will satisfy fans of emotional sapphic romance.
Overall, this book offers strong chemistry, thoughtful writing, and heartfelt moments, but the character development and conflict resolution may not work for everyone. If you enjoy contemporary sapphic romance with steam, music, and imperfect but passionate characters, this one may still be worth picking up.
Where the story struggled for me was in the central conflict. Kenzie and Rachel communicate frequently, yet their fundamentally different life goals—particularly around settling down and having children—remain largely unresolved. The tension felt repetitive rather than progressive, making the predictable third-act breakup and quick reconciliation feel rushed. After weeks of no contact, the resolution focused on the least impactful part of their disagreement, leaving the deeper lifestyle incompatibilities insufficiently addressed.
That said, many readers will appreciate the opposites-attract dynamic. Kenzie’s dedication to her music and evolving self-awareness give her the strongest character arc, while Rachel’s stability and openness to growth balance the relationship. The story embraces real-life messiness, a touch of angst, and ultimately delivers a sweet HEA that will satisfy fans of emotional sapphic romance.
Overall, this book offers strong chemistry, thoughtful writing, and heartfelt moments, but the character development and conflict resolution may not work for everyone. If you enjoy contemporary sapphic romance with steam, music, and imperfect but passionate characters, this one may still be worth picking up.
December 23, 2025
Cute!
Kenzie is a songwriter but dreams of singing her own songs rather than just writing for other people. When she meets Rachel, who has her life planned out, they have a great connection, but with their lifestyles and dreams being so different, they need to work out if they can make it work together.
I loved every second of this! It was so cute but filled with all the drama a good romance needs. Kenzie had an infectious energy and a buzz of excitement, especially when she started getting the opportunities she was dreaming of. Rachel had her whole world turned upside down by it all, but I loved how she had moments where she was really just letting herself enjoy this life outside of her plan, they were freeing and it was so nice to just get to experience her enjoying herself rather than trying to stay on some track. It was so glamorous at times, I was really swept up in it all the way Rachel was and I loved those moments best.
It was romance with a lot of sprinkled magic. And not just in those superstar moments, but in some of the more family based ones where Kenzie was having to learn to be present at the times that mattered most to Rachel. They were a perfect match and just being presented with challenges that were really there to test them down to the core of their beings. It was making them question what they really wanted, and in doing so they were figuring out what really mattered.
Such a great story that I just fell in love with. Hope we get future stories with Kenzie and Rachel as I would love to find out where life took them after all this.
Kenzie is a songwriter but dreams of singing her own songs rather than just writing for other people. When she meets Rachel, who has her life planned out, they have a great connection, but with their lifestyles and dreams being so different, they need to work out if they can make it work together.
I loved every second of this! It was so cute but filled with all the drama a good romance needs. Kenzie had an infectious energy and a buzz of excitement, especially when she started getting the opportunities she was dreaming of. Rachel had her whole world turned upside down by it all, but I loved how she had moments where she was really just letting herself enjoy this life outside of her plan, they were freeing and it was so nice to just get to experience her enjoying herself rather than trying to stay on some track. It was so glamorous at times, I was really swept up in it all the way Rachel was and I loved those moments best.
It was romance with a lot of sprinkled magic. And not just in those superstar moments, but in some of the more family based ones where Kenzie was having to learn to be present at the times that mattered most to Rachel. They were a perfect match and just being presented with challenges that were really there to test them down to the core of their beings. It was making them question what they really wanted, and in doing so they were figuring out what really mattered.
Such a great story that I just fell in love with. Hope we get future stories with Kenzie and Rachel as I would love to find out where life took them after all this.
November 4, 2025
3,7/5
When I read the blurb of this book, I was excited to get to read it, and I’m glad I did.
I really like the plot of the book. A rising songwriter meets a lawyer who is also moving up with her career sounds like a good match, and I feel like these 2 really are.
The book shows the perspective of the 2 main characters; Kenzie and Rachel. Both are kind of busy with their career, and figuring out their lives.
At first, it seems like they are both too busy to really make it work, but after a while I got the feeling like they were trying to make Kenzie the bad guy. All of a sudden the focus was more on whenever she couldn't make it, and less about when Rachel was too busy.
As for Rachel, I feel like they did her a little dirty. I got the feeling like we got way more info and depth with Kenzie, while Rachel got kinda stuck. The most we got out of her is that she wants a family. In the beginning they portrayed her as an ambitious lawyer, but I feel like that got a little lost along the way.
Nevertheless I liked reading the book. Even though I would have liked to get to see a little more of Rachel. There were quite some spicy scenes in it, it didn’t feel like it was too much.
Overall definitely worth reading.
Thank you for the ARC
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley
When I read the blurb of this book, I was excited to get to read it, and I’m glad I did.
I really like the plot of the book. A rising songwriter meets a lawyer who is also moving up with her career sounds like a good match, and I feel like these 2 really are.
The book shows the perspective of the 2 main characters; Kenzie and Rachel. Both are kind of busy with their career, and figuring out their lives.
At first, it seems like they are both too busy to really make it work, but after a while I got the feeling like they were trying to make Kenzie the bad guy. All of a sudden the focus was more on whenever she couldn't make it, and less about when Rachel was too busy.
As for Rachel, I feel like they did her a little dirty. I got the feeling like we got way more info and depth with Kenzie, while Rachel got kinda stuck. The most we got out of her is that she wants a family. In the beginning they portrayed her as an ambitious lawyer, but I feel like that got a little lost along the way.
Nevertheless I liked reading the book. Even though I would have liked to get to see a little more of Rachel. There were quite some spicy scenes in it, it didn’t feel like it was too much.
Overall definitely worth reading.
Thank you for the ARC
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley
November 8, 2025
Kenzie McCall is a successful singer-songwriter. She has a record contract that has her writing hit songs for others, especially pop star Braxton. But her own record deal may be soon and is at the whim of her label. She meets Rachel at her friend’s bar she is performing at. Rachel is a lawyer and the attraction between them is hot. I did like that the story takes place over almost a year. I can imagine them taking time to really get to know each other even if it wasn’t on the page. I felt that Kenzie got the lion share of the attention in the book. Her unorthodox schedule and career is at the crux of a lot of the problems between the pair. Rachel isn’t very flexible on what her dreams and ultimate goals are. This is one of those books where I kept being told they were in love and there was lots of intimacy. But I felt for the longest time they weren’t listening to each other and maybe they didn’t really need to be together.
I remember reading and enjoying the author’s debut novel last year. Fingers crossed I will be rooting for her next couple to be together more than Kenzie and Rachel. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
I remember reading and enjoying the author’s debut novel last year. Fingers crossed I will be rooting for her next couple to be together more than Kenzie and Rachel. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
November 3, 2025
I devoured this book! Another Kel McCord story that I could not put down.
This story was filled with tension and a plot that just would not let me sleep! I wanted to know everything about these characters and I wanted to know it now. The glimpses into the world behind song writing and the difficult path a life on the road can take was interesting and at time a little heartbreaking at how lonely it could be.
Don’t be fooled by the first 2 chapters, the book does not give you the same scene but from each of the main character’s perspectives. Both women know what they want and are very driven to make it happen, which obviously causes a few issues along the way; I have to say I was with Rachel when she was angry that Kenzie had made a big decision without her and was surprised that Ashley stuck up for her, but that did give a nice chance at a different perspective that I certainly wasn’t seeing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the opportunity to read this book. Ms McCord does create tension well and it was delicious. Another lovely, enjoyable easy read.
This story was filled with tension and a plot that just would not let me sleep! I wanted to know everything about these characters and I wanted to know it now. The glimpses into the world behind song writing and the difficult path a life on the road can take was interesting and at time a little heartbreaking at how lonely it could be.
Don’t be fooled by the first 2 chapters, the book does not give you the same scene but from each of the main character’s perspectives. Both women know what they want and are very driven to make it happen, which obviously causes a few issues along the way; I have to say I was with Rachel when she was angry that Kenzie had made a big decision without her and was surprised that Ashley stuck up for her, but that did give a nice chance at a different perspective that I certainly wasn’t seeing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the opportunity to read this book. Ms McCord does create tension well and it was delicious. Another lovely, enjoyable easy read.
November 18, 2025
Kenzie first sees Rachel while she (Kenzie) is performing at a local wine bar. The two then meet again and acknowledge an attraction. But Rachel has to first end her current relationship. Then they start dating and, while both have busy careers, Rachel's is more predictable, and Kenzie can fly off to another city at a moment's notice. Rachel is a planner who wants marriage and children. Kenzie is a fly by the seat of her pants musician with dreams of making it big.
I had a hard time getting through this book. It wasn't highly engaging. The small conflicts didn't help move things along, until the last 20%. I got a much better sense of Kenzie as a character than I did of Rachel.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley.
I had a hard time getting through this book. It wasn't highly engaging. The small conflicts didn't help move things along, until the last 20%. I got a much better sense of Kenzie as a character than I did of Rachel.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley.
October 27, 2025
Rachel is still in a relationship when she meets Kenzie but breaks that off since even if she wants a family, she also wants a happy one and that is not possible with her ex that is just fine. Getting things to a romantic level with Kenzie is so frustratingly impossible for such along time since they are all the time focus on their jobs and other obligations, at times I almost screamed in frustration. When it finally happens it is so perfect but then very soon things are messed up again since they both have such a hard time to understand the other person’s point of view. They want the same, a happy life past forever but to get there is quite the challenge if none of them adjust expectations and way of communicating.
I really liked the book and can recommend if you love a sweet story (somewhat frustrating) and contains a favourite thing, a rockstar writes a love song dedicated to her love interest.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave a review voluntarily.
I really liked the book and can recommend if you love a sweet story (somewhat frustrating) and contains a favourite thing, a rockstar writes a love song dedicated to her love interest.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave a review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
The blurb was interesting and it felt like it was going to be a good read, but it fell short to me. The beginning was good, the chemistry was there and I thought there would be more of a combination between attraction and music. Kenzie and Rachel don't have the same ideals and are very different people. Opposites attract and all that, but it got repetitive with the arguing and were super selfish a lot of the time. I wanted to bang their heads together and tell them to talk.
The writing was good and the plot had potential. The events moved too fast and wasn't believable. Nothing is truly solved that quickly. Not a bad read, but just kinda of meh.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The writing was good and the plot had potential. The events moved too fast and wasn't believable. Nothing is truly solved that quickly. Not a bad read, but just kinda of meh.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2025
Reading the synopsis, I was very interested in reading the book. It is a bit more pure dramatic than I initially expected, but that wasn’t anything that would drive me away.
What did make me somewhat disappointed is that I just never really felt the chemistry between the two main characters, Rachel and Kenzie. The two characters stand out well enough on their own, but I never really got the “why they like the other” with them. I feel like I’ve being told about the connection between them and not seeing it. They just don’t have that “quality” that can be found even in the main characters from McCord’s Uncomplicate It.
A good read that is brought down a bit by the chemistry between the two main characters. Or lack thereof.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
What did make me somewhat disappointed is that I just never really felt the chemistry between the two main characters, Rachel and Kenzie. The two characters stand out well enough on their own, but I never really got the “why they like the other” with them. I feel like I’ve being told about the connection between them and not seeing it. They just don’t have that “quality” that can be found even in the main characters from McCord’s Uncomplicate It.
A good read that is brought down a bit by the chemistry between the two main characters. Or lack thereof.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
December 9, 2025
The blurb piqued my interest, but I found the actual story fell flat. While Kenzie and Rachel had chemistry, their personal goals conflicted with each other. Typically I feel the conflict in most sapphic novels could easily be solved if the MCs would just talk. That’s not the case here, as these MCs talk repeatedly, but nothing is ever resolved and they continue to ignore that they want different lifestyles.
The 3rd act break up was predictable. After weeks of no contact everything is fixed with a small conversation that only solved the least impactful part of their differing dreams? The ending definitely felt rushed.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the ARC.
The 3rd act break up was predictable. After weeks of no contact everything is fixed with a small conversation that only solved the least impactful part of their differing dreams? The ending definitely felt rushed.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC!
A sweet sapphic romance with genuine chemistry between the leads. I liked that their sexuality wasn’t a source of conflict; rather, the tension came from the realistic challenge of juggling demanding careers and figuring out how their long-term goals aligned. The pacing dragged a bit at times, but overall it’s a light, enjoyable, easy read.
A sweet sapphic romance with genuine chemistry between the leads. I liked that their sexuality wasn’t a source of conflict; rather, the tension came from the realistic challenge of juggling demanding careers and figuring out how their long-term goals aligned. The pacing dragged a bit at times, but overall it’s a light, enjoyable, easy read.
November 30, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this arc.
Solid 3.75 ⭐️
I really like the concept however the delivery was a little flat for me. It wasn’t until the book was almost done before I really felt drawn to the story. Don’t get me wrong the spice was hot and I really did like the characters it was just really instalove and not a lot of depth.
I still enjoyed the quick read! Missed that 4th ⭐️ because Mike was a dick and I would have liked more depth to their relationship.
Solid 3.75 ⭐️
I really like the concept however the delivery was a little flat for me. It wasn’t until the book was almost done before I really felt drawn to the story. Don’t get me wrong the spice was hot and I really did like the characters it was just really instalove and not a lot of depth.
I still enjoyed the quick read! Missed that 4th ⭐️ because Mike was a dick and I would have liked more depth to their relationship.
October 21, 2025
This is my second novel and I can't wait for you all to meet Kenzie and Rachel!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews