Between the Lines

by Tracey Magruder

Some stories change your life. Some help you rebuild it.

After ten years in a toxic relationship, Sadie Reed is done being anyone’s cautionary tale. By day, she edits other people’s stories—polishing their words and pushing their dreams forward—while quietly abandoning her own. So when she’s offered one impossible assignment—to fly to a quiet English village and convince reclusive bestselling author Corbyn Pearce to finish the novel he’s been avoiding—she says yes.

Corbyn is brilliant. Corbyn is infuriating.
Corbyn is absolutely not interested in being “handled.”

Scarred by a tragic accident and locked behind walls he refuses to lower, he has driven away every editor sent his way—until Sadie. Their clash is immediate, marked by sharp wit, creative friction, and a connection neither of them is prepared for.

As professional battles soften into late-night conversations and tentative trust, old wounds resurface—hers from the man she escaped, his from the betrayal he never recovered from. And when a long-buried truth pulls them back to a single, unforgettable moment from their past, Sadie must decide:

Is she brave enough to rewrite her story?
And will Corbyn choose to be part of it?

Between the Lines is a heartfelt, slow-burn romance about healing, found family, emotional safety, and the courage to trust again—where love doesn’t erase the past, but grows patiently beside it. Perfect for readers who love emotionally grounded, character-driven romances in the vein of Emily Henry, Carley Fortune, and stories that linger long after the final page.

Genres: Romance

309 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 6, 2026

About the author

Tracey Magruder writes romance stories filled with heart, humor, and the kind of emotional chemistry that refuses to be ignored. A lifelong storyteller and music instructor by day, she’s spent years helping others find their voice—now she’s finally using hers on the page.

Whether she’s crafting modern love stories or building worlds with a touch of magic, Tracey is most at home writing characters who feel real, messy, and impossible not to root for. When she’s not writing, she’s usually reading, spending time with her family, or daydreaming about her next novel.

Reviews

[The Sewist's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 4.5
🌶️ .5
🥵 Spicy Chapters: March 22, 2025
❤️‍🔥 Swoon Factor: 3
📚 Tropes/Themes: grumpy sunshine, workplace romance, healing, writer MCs, forced proximity, flashbacks, disability Rep, slow burn, found family, protective MMC
👀 Dual POV 3rd person
💔 Triggers: mentions of DV, emotional abuse, assault, stalking, PTSD, panic attacks

💬 Wow. Just wow. I'm so impressed- this was a fabulous read that sucked me in so fast. Idk, it's just the best book to read cuddled up on your couch with a cozy blanket. I don't make the rules 🤷🏼‍♀️

I'm struggling to organize my thoughts so rapid fire things I liked:
⭐ I think my favorite bit was how they actually met 16 years ago and had that instant connection, but didn't realize it until the end.
⭐ Corbyn is the good kind of grumpy 😂 I don't like asshole grumpy characters, just the endearingly grumpy ones.
⭐ Beauty and the Beast vibes
⭐ Cozy, small town setting with supportive side characters. I don't often remember them but I did here, esp Maggie and Edie.
⭐ The slow burn tension. Normally I'd be annoyed about how long it takes to get together but idk it really worked for me here
⭐ Both MCs felt really authentic, fleshed out and relatable
⭐ Low spice. Not usually my thing but it really worked here and I enjoyed how it kept the focus more on their character growth arc

My biggest complaint is that I would have preferred more info/wrap-up in the epilogue, it doesn't detract from the story. I was just so invested I wasn't ready to give Corbyn and Sadie up.

🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼 Sequel?! I think Ellie needs a returning home/childhood bestie or brothers bestie/it's always been you/second chance story 😂

[Marissa Guzman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an eARC from BookSirens and am leaving this review completely voluntarily.

I was immediately struck by how well-developed the characters are and how naturally their relationship unfolds. The female protagonist, in particular, stands out. Her traumatic background is handled with such sensitivity, adding meaningful depth to her actions and emotional responses. It also equips her to manage her difficult client with remarkable patience and composure. Even when he’s stubborn or moody, she meets each moment with a steadiness that feels both authentic and admirable.

I also love how their work together becomes a shared path toward healing. Though they’re recovering from entirely different wounds, the author shows how their interactions open space for growth, understanding, and emotional restoration. Their individual journeys don’t overshadow one another; instead, they intertwine in a way that feels organic, balanced, and genuinely transformative.

On a personal note, I deeply resonated with the way Riley came into Corbyn’s life. It reminded me of how my own Riley arrived at a time when I didn’t even realize I needed something—or someone—else to care for. Sometimes the right pet walks into your world and quietly becomes a source of grounding, comfort, and healing. Seeing that mirrored in the story made those moments feel especially meaningful and emotional for me.

[Heather Guenthner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Wow, for a debut author, this book was really well done. A slow-burn, grumpy vs sunshine romance with Pride & Prejudice undertones. You follow two people who learn to open up and trust each other and in turn start to heal each other’s deep traumas. There is a beautiful background of found family and community to tie it together. My only complaint is I did feel the ending felt a tad rushed. There was so much build up and some earlier details were touched on briefly, but felt a tad too easily buttoned up and brushed aside. Also, I’m obsessed with the Irish wolfhound, Riley, I love him.

[Roo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between the Lines by Tracey Magruder

This was such an interesting read! I dove into it while I had a few days off and was pleasantly surprised! The characters were very interesting and I enjoyed the plot!

[Kara Chmielewski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I applied for this ARC via NetGalley - huge thank you to them and the author! I picked the book originally because of the colors on the cover but was sucked in and enjoyed reading about Sadie and Corbyn. Quick and fun read!

[Stephanie T · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an impressive debut novel! I will definitely be on the lookout for more of her work in the future!
The best way I can describe this book would be a modern day Beauty and the Beast.
It’s a slow-burn romance featuring a few of my favorite tropes: forced proximity, second chance romance, and a grumpy MMC.
If you’re looking for something super spicy, this probably isn’t the book for you. BUT if you’re looking for something sweet, easy to read and has a bit more depth than your typical romance, you will love this one!

Thank you to Booksirens for the ARC.

[Arleigh Salerno · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Home isn't a place. It's a choice."

"Life's hardships can either soften us or turn us brittle. Some scars don't show on the outside, but that doesn't make them any less real."

I was asked... didn't you just start reading that book? why yes... but in my defense this was hard to put down.

the title makes sense once you read through, and even if you truly read the. blurb also. Although I think reading gives it a better feel. Digging into this read I had this excited anticipation that stuck with me the whole way through. waiting. and I was NOT disappointed in any of it. the lessons we learn while following our main characters Sadie and Corbyn. Its not what's on the outside. This is a story of frustration, trust and overcoming. I actually teared up! Seriously... this is a must read if you love a good cozy, almost fated romance!

[Jess Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so grateful I got the chance to read Between the Lines by Tracey Magruder as my first book of 2026. I really enjoyed it! It's such a wonderfully written story with characters who felt so relatable. I found I didn't want it to end. The story includes small town, found family vibes with fun side characters, healing and connection after trauma and the romance was so sweet. I loved reading Sadie and Corbyn's story! I hope to read more from this author in the future.

[Angelie Cleaver · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op in exchange for an honest review.

Between the Lines was a charming little romance that touched on some difficult emotional issues. I think there was some potential to go deeper on the emotional impact- meaning more show, less tell. I would also cast a vote for increasing the variety of emotional descriptions as that was very limited. "Chest pounding" was enormously overused. The plot was cute, and now I want to read Corbyn's book.

[Veronica Salib · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book so badly, but unfortunately, this book just fell flat for me.

NOTE TO THE PUBLISHER: PLEASE READ TO THE END OF THE REVIEW FOR SOME FORMATTING-RELATED ISSUES.

Between the Lines by Tracey Magruder is a contemporary fiction story that follows Sadie, a developmental editor who recently got out of an abusive relationship, as she travels to the UK to help edit a new novel by a grumpy mystery author, Corbyn, who went through a traumatic accident years ago and hasn’t published a book in four years.

The premise of the book was honestly very interesting to me. I love the idea of a woman leaving an abusive relationship, prioritizing her career, and maybe following a new and better love, but the writing just didn’t deliver in the way that I was hoping it would. The characters were underdeveloped, and the pacing was inconsistent.

First, the book is formatted like a dual-POV story, but then told in the third person. I feel like with third-person writing, there is really no need to format it like a dual-POV story.

On top of that, the characters just felt underdeveloped to me. We only really got bits and pieces of Sadie’s personality when there was obviously so much more to her than what was written on the page. Corbyn’s grumpiness, while understandable given his history, just did not seem like a good fit for Sadie based on her history as well.

Additionally, I felt like the romance, while it didn’t physically progress until well into the book, appeared between the two characters very suddenly. The switch flipped for both of them without much buildup.

Aside from my issues with the actual book, I had some issues with my eARC. I requested the eARC to be sent to my Kindle through NetGalley, and the chapter titled “February 6, 2025. Sadie” did not have any content. I am not sure if that was intentional or if there is something wrong with the digital copy.

Additionally, typically when I receive a Kindle eARC through NetGalley, I can easily access the document on my Kindle or through the Kindle app on my phone without any issues; however, the formatting was completely skewed when I tried to open it on the Kindle app on my phone.

Again, unsure if these issues are unique to me; however, I highly recommend double-checking before the pub date!

Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for this advanced eARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the Tracey Magruder's debut novel and I applied for an ARC on a whim. I'm really glad that I did as I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

The characters have depth and are authentic, flawed people working through their own traumas and pasts as well as - unknowingly at first - supporting each other. This is a beautiful retelling of Beauty and the Beast (unwittingly or not) and is very easily relatable for the reader. The story lost a star for me as there were too many "smirks", pushing the hair behind her ear and the lovable, goofball of a dog constantly looking between his two humans - and one really awkward and thorough description of the hero's appearance. These are minor issues that were annoyances but did not detract from the story overall. I would've liked some more detail in the epilogue as to what happened with the characters lives and certain decisions that were made. This was inferred but more closure would be nice, although the epilogue did contain a very nice touch that left you with feel good vibes.

There is no #instalove or #instalust that the story then revolves around without delving too deeply into anything else. This is a slow burn that takes the time to reveal the complexities of the characters, is well paced, and makes you want to keep coming back. I will be keeping an eye out for more of Tracey Magruder's work and look forward to her next book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[MW · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a tough one to review, frankly. I found the story charming, and I loved a lot about it, but I was frustrated by the overuse of "romantic clichés" throughout the telling.

The characters are strong and well-developed, but I thought someone was going to have a stroke by how many times their heartbeats or pulses pounded. I also had a problem with the electric current that ran through them each time they happened to touch one another. Please, no. Once or twice was bad enough because it’s a romance “thing” that doesn’t ever happen unless someone has a static electricity charge from scooting over a rug or something. Also, the citrus smell of her shampoo showed up over and over, along with both characters’ “own unique smell.” A bit more originality would have been a plus. The dog was lovely, but he was way too convenient for distractions and an understanding buddy. He came across as a bit of fantasy thrown in for good measure.

I know this sounds picky, but the book could have been a solid five stars without so many repeated phrases about pounding pulses and electric charges throughout the book. It’s ironic that the book is about editing a novel when this story could have benefited greatly from way better editing. I don’t want to discourage a debut author by assigning 3 stars because the story is good, but it’s also annoying.

Thank you for the ARC. These opinions are my own and freely given.

[donutqueenie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadie is an editor tasked with helping a grumpy author, Corbyn, who has missed many deadlines for his upcoming book. As they work on the book, they both find healing from their pasts. (TW: emotional abuse, gaslighting, chronic pain, migraine, blood, PTSD/panic attack)

📖Grumpy/sunshine
🐶Editor x author
🇬🇧Enemies to lovers
🤍Healing
📖Cute dog
🐶Found family
🇬🇧Third person POV
🤍MCs in their 30s

The dog is cute. I liked both MCs. I liked their character arcs and the emotional depth. It totally has Beauty and the Beast vibes. Sadie is running from a toxic ex who can’t take the hint and find safe haven in a grumpy author who actually sees her.

I forgot this was a romance until the last 10%. This reads like a fiction novel with the “romance” being an afterthought so three romantic scenes were written last minute and squished onto the end. I love a good slow burn and this was a really unsatisfying slow fizzle. There was no chemistry and no tension and those things are what make a slow burn satisfying. I liked the romance at the end but it could have been so much more. Take out the romance and this could be a beautiful novel of healing and learning to trust again and friendship.

“Home is a choice.”

This is a book about writing a book which is always a fun plot idea! I love how the story started in the subway and the epilogue.

Release date 2/6/26. Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC!

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. It’s been a long time since a romance moved me to tears and kept me so invested.

We first meet the protagonists as teenagers during a fleeting encounter on the tube. A brief moment, yet memorable. Years later, they cross paths again (unbeknownst to them, though we know), and the challenges they’ve endured (trauma from a car accident and a stalker ex) feel authentic, shaping how they interact with others and with each other. Trust is hard-won, and while circumstances force them to work together, their friendship develops naturally. When they finally cross that line (to romantic territory) , their connection feels genuine, and their influence on each other is believable. This is a story about rediscovering oneself and becoming a better version of who you are, and nothing about it feels rushed.

What I truly appreciated was the organic build-up of chemistry. The physical aspect remains secondary, allowing the focus to stay on healing, resilience, and learning to accept help, despite initial resistance. Their interactions are raw and honest, making it impossible not to root for them. A beautifully written, heartfelt story that lingers long after the last page.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Owen-Usher · Rating 4 out of 5]

🪻ARC Book Review🪻

Between the Lines
By Tracey Magruder

I am thoroughly impressed with Tracey Magruder’s debut novel, Between the Lines. The characters have clearly been well thought out and there’s a beautiful rhythm to the storyline that is so captivating. This book uses popular tropes, such as grumpy/sunshine characters, but it doesn’t use them as a crutch.

What’s particularly admirable is that although these characters go through immense growth and healing, they don’t lose who they are on that journey. And their healing isn’t instantaneous; they don’t meet each other and immediately get “fixed.” Their traumas are part of them, and it’s given the appropriate attention and care.

If you’re looking for spice, this might not be the book for you. Don’t let that deter you though. There’s serious emotional depth here, but it’s not heavy or weighed down. It feels real — like it feels like this could be people I’d meet in real life, not just storybook characters.

The Roaring Stag, the inn/pub that is central to this novel…I need a plane ticket there ASAP. As an aspiring author/editor, I cannot think of a better atmosphere to write in. And if I could have a tray of Edie’s tea and pasties, that would be amazing.

Thank you to Booksirens for providing me with this ARC!

[Rosie Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between The Lines is a contemporary romance with a literary theme.

The story opens with a chance meeting between strangers on the London Underground.

Fifteen years later the story continues; Sadie who now works in New York for a publishing company. She has recently broken away from an abusive relationship but her ex keeps pestering her. Giving herself some much needed distance, Sadie accepts a post in England helping one of the publisher’s authors.

Corbyn has shut himself away from life for four years after a life changing accident. Everyday he struggles to write and is frustrated and angry. The last thing he needs is an annoying editor sent to help him finish his overdue manuscript. However, he’s surprised when Sadie doesn’t fear his wrath and shocked that her support and suggestions are actually helpful.

While the ending can easily be anticipated in most romance tales, it is the journey that matters most. This story revolves around writing and publishing with the added bonus of a lovable dog and some good supporting characters. I enjoyed the setting and both Sadie and Corbyn were very likeable.

[Meagan Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is hard to believe that this is Tracey Magruder’s debut! I read this in 4 hours because I just couldn’t put it down. I would pick up anything she writes without hesitation!

This cozy love story is deeply authentic. The characters feel achingly real, flaws and all, with journeys that are marked by genuine growth and healing rather than quick fixes. Both Sadie and Corbyn work through their individual trauma during the course of the book and the way they confront their individual trauma is handled with so much care and sensitivity.

The most powerful part of the story was that their love didn’t magically erase their struggles. Instead, we got to witness Sadie and Corbin be patient and supportive facing the challenges together. That realism made their connection feel even more meaningful and earned.

I loved the epilogue, but I wanted more of Sadie and Corbyn. Definitely hoping for a sequel! And the supporting characters were absolutely delightful. I would happily read their stories too.

Tracey, I can’t wait to see which stories you will tell next!

Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Lethina Mirkovic · Rating 3 out of 5]

Between the Lines is a sweet, light read that leans into the familiar and comforting beats of an enemies-to-lovers romance. The story unfolds gently, with soft prose and a cozy tone that makes it easy to settle into.

The tension between the main characters is enjoyable, and watching their relationship shift from irritation to affection is the highlight of the book. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is handled in a way that feels approachable and kind rather than overly dramatic, which will appeal to readers who enjoy low-angst romance.

That said, while the story is pleasant, it didn’t fully surprise me or push beyond the expectations of the trope. Some moments felt predictable, and I found myself wanting a bit more depth or emotional intensity to really elevate the story.

Overall, Between the Lines is a charming, easygoing romance—perfect if you’re in the mood for something sweet and comforting without heavy conflict. A solid 3-star read that delivers exactly what it promises. 💫

Thank you to Net Galley and Victory Editing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sadie Reed viaja a un pequeño pueblo inglés convencida de que solo va a cumplir un encargo editorial más, ayudar a un autor famoso a terminar el libro que amenaza con arruinar su carrera. Lo que no espera es encontrarse con Corbyn Pearce, un escritor brillante marcado por un accidente que lo aisló del mundo y de sus propias palabras. Él se refugia en el silencio y la rutina, ella llega cargando heridas recientes y una inseguridad que aprendió a callar durante años. Mientras trabajan en una historia que se resiste a avanzar, ambos descubren que hay dolores que no se corrigen con disciplina ni talento, solo con paciencia, escucha y la valentía de dejar que alguien vea lo que se esconde detrás de las páginas.


___

La rata asquerosa del ex debió pagar todo lo que hizo, por lo menos tenía que terminar en la carcel.

Espero que la versión final tenga epílogo.



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

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

What a fun debut novel! So many things are working in this novel: the cozy bookish vibe, the broody but lovable male interest, the well developed “side” characters (including canine friends). The story is told through our two main characters, which helps flush out their personal backstories and emotional baggage.

What I was missing was more romance between Corbyn and Sadie. The book was rife with tension, small touches, and yearning for days, but it felt like our characters finally “got together” with just a few pages remaining, and it left me wanting more. I wonder if there is a sequel planned where we can see their romance play out more fully — maybe a novel focused on Corbyn’s sister, Ellie?

Overall, this was a lovely cozy read, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for Tracey Magruder in the future!

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars.
A reclusive, grumpy wounded hero and a determined yet compassionate heroine feature in “Between the Lines”, by Tracey Magruder, a story where pain and healing mix with the creative process of fiction writing.
I liked how brooding Corbyn slowly opens up to Sadie, both in professional and personal matters. The determination and steadiness she shows is admirable.
The romance is a slow burn as they get to know and trust each other in the picturesque English countryside.
The process of healing happens for both as the trust builds slowly between them.
I liked the depiction of the writing and editing process.
The grim portrayal of domestic violence is implacable, showing its insidiousness.
I felt the story drags a bit at times and didn’t need to be so long.

[Liz D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a hug I didn’t know I needed. Sadie is so heartbreakingly relatable in the way she’s lost pieces of herself over the years, and watching her slowly come back to life in that quiet English village made me root for her from page one. Corbyn is the perfect kind of prickly sharp edges, soft center, and a backstory that makes every hesitant step toward connection feel earned.

The village itself is such a warm, grounding presence, filled with the kind of found family energy that sneaks up on you. And the slow-burn romance? Gorgeous. Intimate. Full of little moments that say more than big declarations ever could.

Readers who love emotionally rich, character-driven stories about healing, hope, and second chances are going to eat this up.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
Read this book as an ARC.

This book read like a Hallmark movie and I enjoy that. As a reader I liked getting the angle of an editor working with a writer to help him meet deadlines and then that developing into something more. This book was a grumpy/sunshine romance with found family.

The pacing of this book was good (I actually ended up reading it in one day). Even though they only knew each other for a few months, nothing in the writing seems rushed and everything felt like it developed naturally. Not only was I reading to find out what happened with Sadie and Corbyn, but I was also reading to see how Sadie would respond to her Ex’s constant messages.

[Jeanette Stingley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of times, the grumpy person of the grumpy/sunshine trope gets on my nerves but I loved Corbyn from the beginning of the story. It's hard to believe this is a debut novel. This book deserves to be on a table at Barnes and Noble. The story flow is fantastic, all the "good" characters personalities really shine through and the "bad" character makes you want to jump into the story and give him a piece of your mind. I am secretly hoping that this may have a sequel.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Serina0331 · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC review from netgalley

I honestly thought this book was terribly boring. I know that the main trope is a slow burn, but in my opinion Sadie & Corbyn had no chemistry. I think this author took a lot of inspiration from Emily Henry, but the characters lacked true development and personality. The last few chapters of the book was the only good part of the book. The epilogue also left much to be desired. The overall writing of the story was strong and the plot was there, the characters were just very hard ti care about.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️ This was such a cute, well-done slow burn! It was so touching to watch two people learn to open up and let someone in. Sadie and Corbyn have a slow, genuine love, from strangers to friends to lovers. There’s no insta-love or instant lust; it feels real and raw.

Both characters are complex, and getting to watch them unravel and heal was beautiful. The found family is heartwarming, and Riley is obviously the best doggo. Honestly, such a wonderful debut!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ambreezy83 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a dark romance girly that was looking for a change of pace. This is a super sweet slow burn between a grumpy writer and a wishful editor. Their story is an easy read and just flows so smoothly. It was a great story and just so sweet it might give you cavities in a good way. Also don’t forget the bestest pup Riley. He is part of the love story too. Love it. I received this ARC from the author and the opinions are my own.

[Carrie Vandenhouten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an absolute joy! I fell in love with the characters and found myself internally cheering them on. I felt all the emotions and seriously cannot believe this is a debut novel! My only regret in reading this book is that the author doesn't have a backlist because I would devour every single title! I'm so thankful I was given the opportunity to receive and review an ARC and I look forward to more from this author!

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book. This is a sweet easy to read romance story. I genuinely enjoyed how the author told this story. She handled the characters past pain really well. The relationship between the characters didn’t feel fake or forced. I also have to throw a shout out to Riley. We all need a lovable pet in our lives!

[Maria Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an awesome book. It brought out feelings of warmth, love,healing. You can feel every word. Every emotion . I connected so much with this book! An excellent read. I highly recommend reading this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.