The Next Contestant

by Sadie Rose

Who has what it takes to be the next Wifey?

When Emilie Pearson signed up for the hit dating show, Wifey her end goal was a paycheck. The last thing on her mind was love. What she didn’t bargain for was the drop-dead gorgeous man who would be interacting with her each day behind the scenes. Navigating other contestants, the cameras and her growing feelings, Emilie will have to step up her game and ignore her ever growing feelings if she has any hopes of succeeding.

The Next Contestant is an open door, slow burn contemporary romance with a happy ever after ending.

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 3, 2026

About the author

Sadie Rose is an American author who pens fantasy novellas and romance novels. When she isn't writing she enjoys spending her free time reading, watching television and traveling.

She lives on the west coast with her husband, son and cat.

*Instagram @SadieRoseAuthor

Reviews

[Books.with.Ana]

ARC review

This was honestly such a fun quick read!
Ik had comedy, drama, romance and the right amount of anticipation AND no third act break-up!
The whole idea of her being a dating show contestant and falling for a producer is such a fun concept, it adds to the drama, the secrecy and you know I’m a sucker for the whole secret dating trope!
Also Owen is so hot when he yearns, cause men who yearn earn!
The couple was I liked Emilie and Owen, ugh obsessed.
Mark can suck it, the moment he made the bikini comment I was a hater. Which I find sad cause I really liked him at the start but I like how he wasn’t a perfect eligible man but more realistic that once you start to know someone their true colors show. Natalie deserves better than him anyways!
I really liked the complexity of Emilie’s character, the fact that money or the lack of can make you do things you’d never thought you would. The choices she made, made me like her more for it.
But out of all this my favourite thing out of this whole book is the friendship that came out of it between Emilie and Natalie. I am a sucker for good healthy friendships especially in a dating show that must be difficult to find. Nathalie is so likeable that I can’t wait for her book.
Anyways I recommend this fun read

[Kimberley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I utterly loved reading this book. It was such a refreshing book to some of the dark and heavy themed books I have read as of late. This book follows Emilie, who has just entered basically the Bachelor series and has to fight it out with 23 other women to become the "Wifey" to a rich man, really. Obviously, she only enters because she is seriously broke and needs the cash, but something happens that she would never expect to have happened.

I loved Emilie's character in the book and how witty and herself she truly was at times. Obviously, some situations required a different form of herself as she couldn't give it away to why she was really there. On the show Wifey, Emilie meets Natalie, who is another contestant, and I truly loved their friendship that they formed over the show.

It can't be a romance book without an unexpected star, that being Owen, who is one of the producers. Let's say professional lines get crossed, and if you want to know more, then I strongly recommend reading this book. It flows so nicely, and I read it pretty fast as everything is utterly amazing, and now I can't wait for Natalie's book!!

[Kelsey Fletcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

fun and original concept

This was such a fun read! Emilie didn’t have the most honorable intentions when she applied for Wifey! but I guess desperate times call for desperate measures 🤷🏻‍♀️ I loved Natalie, she was actually the only genuine and honest person in the book and she definitely deserved better. Mark was promising at first but ended up being a whole bunch of different disappointments. Owen was amazing and the tension between him and Emilie was amazing and I loved seeing them try to resist their feelings for each other. The challenges the characters had to do as contestants on Wifey! ranged from hilarious to trashy. Brittany was awful but it ended up being amazing how things went for her🤣🤣 There’s not a ton of spice in this but it didn’t feel like the story was lacking anything. My only complaints are that I don’t know how to pronounce Emilie (I assumed like Emily but apparently not), and there were a couple things that were a little repetitive (just some phrasing and character description) but that’s easy enough to ignore. This was really enjoyable and I loved how Wifey! ended and also how the book ended.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew proving you are "wifey" material meant running an obstacle course. That is unless you are participating in a reality dating show. I like to watch dating shows, but I would never go on one. However, I must admit the idea of the dating show being a competition does intrigue me. I am very competitive.

Mark is ok. He would not be my type of I could see how he could be for others. Again, if I did do a reality dating show, I would want to do it with my friend like Emilie does with Natalie, her friend. There always have to be that one top woman. Brittany is definitely a mean girl. While she acts like she is looking for love with Mark, I truly believe she is only on the show for the money and fame.

Emilie describing Mark saying "I expected more cheese. But so far, no gouda." I howled with laughter. Almost snorted. This book is amazing. I would say this is one of Sadie's best books! A banger, must read!

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

On a normal day, you won't catch me watching a "reality/dating" show. But reading about one? YES! Don't ask me why. I can't explain it.

It didn't take long for me to be absorbed into the "Wifey" dating show. Emilie's reasons for joining the show are completely valid -- a gal needs a paycheck, right?! Her level of sarcasm was a delight considering her being in a competition to win a million dollars.

A true friendship was unexpected, but very welcomed. Most of the cattiness is what turns me off from watching reality shows. But written, I enjoyed how Emilie and Natalie connected. Good friendships are hard to find and as enjoyable to read as the romance!

But what I didn't expect was for Emilie's heart to find Owen when she was headstrong about winning with Mark and the money factor. I wasn't quite sure which direction she'd ultimately choose and absolutely loved the finale. Natalie's story is up next -- and I'm tuning in!

[Margaret Hejmanowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all things Sadie Rose, and this does not disappoint! This was quite entertaining!! Who has what it takes to be the next "Wifey;" a reality dating show similar to The Bachelor. Each week if you stayed, you got a paycheck. If you were chosen as his wife, you got one million dollars. Emile Pearson signed up for the hit show Wifey; for the paycheck (she couldn't even pay her rent). Was I looking for a husband, not really, a paycheck YES. Natalie became her best friend in the house. Of course many of the woman were catty, and said the show was rigged. Mark, the wife seeker seemed ok. Owen, one of the producers for the show, seemed to catch Emile's eye from day one. Love the plot, great setting, and strong intense interesting characters. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Karen Tucci!!!

[Shawna Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Next Contestant was such a fun read! If you’re a fan of reality competitions that are about “finding the one” then you definitely need to read this!! I can definitely see Wifey as a reality show in the real world. The cast of characters is everything that you’ve seen and would expect in a reality dating competition but without any backstabbing occurring. The FMC is very likable and someone I would totally be friends with. The real MMC, not the one being chased after, is professional, broody, but too invested causing him to crack and the slow, delicious, tension to burn. You find it easy to root for some contestants and love to loathe others. For me this was a faster read that had lots of banter, sarcasm, interesting little twists, a touch of spice, and the ridiculous challenges typical to dating shows we all love to watch.

[Aspen G · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Next Contestant was a fascinating story of love, chaos, and social experimentation. I loved Owen and supporting character Natalie, they were the most down to earth people and so relatable. Emilie was a toss up for me—she was faking it so much it was difficult to swallow, but when the chips were down she held her ground and called it like it was regardless of how others would take it. The climactic moment at the end was a show-stopper! The poking at reality TV was spot on, and the love angle between Emilie and Owen was really well done. The drama and antics of the show contestants was so deftly portrayed, and the behind the scenes moments were on point. I laughed and had a great time reading this one.

[NurseLadyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emilie, girl. You are so real and relatable, but, also, that level of sarcasm? Who hurt you?

FMC Emilie needs cash. She goes on a dating reality show hoping to make more than rent. What she doesn’t expect is Owen, the producer, to be so… yummy. And so off limits. As the contestants are dwindling, the question remains: who will she choose: the man who can provide financial security in the form of a win or the man who has her heart?

I enjoyed watching Emilie and Natalie’s friendship. The way they show up for each other felt real and familiar.

This is perfect for fans of reality tv, he falls first, forbidden love, forced proximity, and secrets.

I gratefully received this as an ARC from the author. All thoughts are my own.

[Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick, Enjoyable Read!

Wifey....the Ultimate social experiment complete with a mud pit! I loved the feeling of being behind the scenes, watching the drama the producers create, the contestants, the antics, the friendships and of course the secrets. Emilie, even with her own secrets, showed her true, sarcastic self most of the time, which made for good interactions with Mark and the other contestants. I enjoyed the connection she had with Natalie and their joint responses to the other contestants antics made me laugh. Watching the attraction between Owen and Emilie had me rooting for them, even though it felt wrong under the circumstances. The last few elimination ceremonies added the drama I expected, but the final one made this book! I am looking forward to Natalie's story.

[Debra Ramos · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and quick read! We follow Emilie, who joins a Bachelor-style reality show—not for love, but for the prize money she desperately needs.

Emilie completely stole the show for me; she’s sarcastic, sharp, and unapologetically real. Watching her navigate the madness while staying true to herself was such a highlight. But things get complicated when she starts developing feelings for Owen, the producer… and let’s just say that adds a whole new layer of tension.

I also loved the friendship she builds with Natalie, it brought such a genuine and heartwarming balance to all the drama. Between the banter, angst, friendships, and fun moments, this story was an absolute delight from start to finish!

Thank you to the author for the eARC, this is my honest review.

[Catherine Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great read, I couldn’t put it down until the very last word.
Emilie is such a phenomenal FMC, love her sass and straight talking.
Natalie is the perfect bff, love her sweetness and the way she is level headed, not like some of the other contestants.
The banter between Natalie and Emilie had me laughing - they said everything I would have been thinking in the same situation, it was perfect.

Brittany is the iconic mean girl that demand all the attention and the other ladies a not that much better.
I adore the elimination ceremony and the way the women react - priceless.
Overall a brilliantly written book, can’t wait to read Natalie’s love story next.

[De Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book. Start to finish in less than as day. It’s so good. This was definitely a unique premise for a book and thoroughly enjoyed it. Emilie and Owen are such relatable characters. Emilie joins the TV show because she’s broke, not to find love. She’s got the sass and is such a real character. I would definitely be her friend. Owen is a genuinely good guy. And a wrench in Emilie’s plans. Their connection and chemistry was undeniable. They were so genuinely meant to be together. This book gives us drama and tension and chaos. I was laughing and giggling like a school girl. And that ending was absolute perfection.

[Cathy Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great short story!

This story is similar to the different dating reality shows we see on tv but this isn’t for love but for money. She needed money and had no plans for falling in love so she could do this, until she meets Owen.

Mark and Emilie were looking good to win the show and that would give Emilie the money she needed but the problem with reality shows, they are so unpredictable!!
We have someone on scene that has gotten Emilie’s attention and it isn’t any of the contestants!

Owen is a producer on the reality show, “Wifey” and not even a contestant.

I devoured this book in a day and can’t wait to see what everyone things about it!

[Carol Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story will make you laugh, cheer for those who are more of an underdog! The reality TV shows like this you know have to be somewhat structured to their purpose and direction. So consider that, enter in the Husband seekers, the divas and then the girl down on her luck who sees it as a way to make money. The hidden attraction one never expected is lurking in the shadows. Awesome story about two people attracted to each other, but can put themselves in awkward situations, due to NDA's, jobs and potential blowing up the game. Enjoy this story, not to disappoint.

[Nyxie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great!

A very entertaining premise - I love that Emilie was a contestant to be the next "WIFEY"on a reality TV show. (The show would be similar to our The Bachelor.)

Emilie doesn't join the show looking for love though !

She joins because she's broke & wants the money the show promised to pay if she stays long enough.

Emilie is sassy, snarky and quickly catches the eye of not only the reality TV "hubby",

but also one of the producers. Low on spice, but delightful as a fun quick read !

Can't wait for y'all to read it
Releasing 6/3/2026

[Liberty Munson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot of this story was an interesting take on a Bachelor-like reality show. Although there were some plot inconsistencies (Emilie tells Owen her reasons for being in the show and then frets that she needs to tell him and a few other similar errors in the storyline), the overall story and Emilie's sass kept the plot moving and me invested in seeing the outcome. At times it's hard to like Emilie but even that's consistent with her character. Ignore the plot inconsistencies and enjoy the unique take in this premise.

[Victoria Wyatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emilie goes onto a bachelor time reality show for financial reasons when she is laid off. She soon catches the eye of one of the producers, Owen and vice versa. While the women are vying for a chance with Mark, she tries not to draw his attention. That is until she realizes she needs to stay on the show as long as possible to explore what she is feeling for the producer. Meanwhile Natalie is the genuine one there while the rest seem to be dramatic and over the top especially Brittany. It takes an interesting turn but with a HEA. 3.75 stars.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Next Contestant was a super easy, fun read with a 4 🌟 and a 1🌶 rating, but didn't feel like it needed it to sustain this story. If you enjoy trashy reality TV you'll love this. Reading this was just like watching and episode of The Bachelor and knowing what actually goes on behind the scenes.

Emilie's sense of humor and level of sarcasm reminds me of myself and why I just connected with her so quickly. This ride was funny, tense and heartwarming. With a true love and friend connection bonus. I look forward to reading Natalie's story!!

[K Webz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Next Contestant does not disappoint! A reality dating show to see who has what it takes to be the next “Wifey.” And Emilie she is such a relatable character, as she enters the reality show for the paycheck because she is so down on her luck.

I loved the connection she formed with the other contestant, Natalie.

And Owen, he is the producer of the show and someone she shouldn’t be attracted to but she can’t deny her growing feelings.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and quick read for me! We have Emilie who goes on a bachelor style show but not looking for love just money since she really needs it. But she starts falling for the producer Owen and it makes everything more complicated. We have friendships, some angst, banter, and fun moments! 3.5 stars!

[Reading is escaping reality · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like the bachelorette/bachelor then this is perfect! This was so good, real. The tension is high but the sashes are limited. Come and join in and see who is up for elimination, and who is forming the love connection!

I can’t wait for the next book!!!


I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Liz Ranne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! It's Emilie & Owen's story & it was awesome! She is in serious need of money & enters a contest to find "true love" & has to compete with 23 other women. What she doesn't expect is Owen their chemistry was amazing. If you love reality shows, you'll love this! It was a slow burn, & it's a break from darker reads. Recommend this author & book!

[Di T · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book it was a good light hearted easy read. The plot was fun and heartwarming. First book I’ve read by this author and look forward to reading more.

I received an advance copy from the author and have chosen to leave my review.

[Amandamay.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bachlor in book form, great read. The FMC has whitty comebacks and doesn't back down to anything. And who you think is the MMC, turns out to be someone completely different. I liked the writing and can't wait to read the next in the series.

[Torey · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun read. There's fun, witty characters, friendship, and a strong FMC. Low on spice but high on sarcasm.

[Jenna Antonelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

So cute only wished it was a little longer

[Wendy Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable light read, I loved Emilie and Owen’s story ❤️❤️❤️ A definite page turner and very entertaining. 100% recommend this book to everyone ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ you will not be disappointed 😏🌈💕

[Tonya Scherrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness!! Emilie is something else!!!

[Raeann Wolfley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rtc