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The Romance Revival
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Expected 14 Jul 26Win a free print copy of this book!
7 days and 01:28:40
25 copies available
U.S. only
The instant New York Times bestselling authors of The Paradise Problem and The Unhoneymooners return with an unforgettable novel in which one fateful accident erases a troubled marriage from memory—and love gets one extraordinary do-over.
Three years ago, Emery Finch did something completely out of character: She got married. To Luca—the impossibly charming landscaper she met on one blistering night in Vegas who made her laugh, made her dance, made her feel.
But now, Emery is consumed by her top-secret job, missing dinners, forgetting anniversaries, and promising herself Luca will understand once her cutting-edge research comes to light. Until the unthinkable happens: A tragic accident takes Luca from her.
Desperate not to lose him, Emery breaks every rule to bring him back. And Luca would probably thank her for it, if only he could remember her. Their first kiss, their Sunny Sundays at the beach, the life they built together...all of it is gone.
It may be a miracle of science, but for Emery it’s her one shot at a second chance. And this time, she won’t waste it—because true love is always worth reviving.
Three years ago, Emery Finch did something completely out of character: She got married. To Luca—the impossibly charming landscaper she met on one blistering night in Vegas who made her laugh, made her dance, made her feel.
But now, Emery is consumed by her top-secret job, missing dinners, forgetting anniversaries, and promising herself Luca will understand once her cutting-edge research comes to light. Until the unthinkable happens: A tragic accident takes Luca from her.
Desperate not to lose him, Emery breaks every rule to bring him back. And Luca would probably thank her for it, if only he could remember her. Their first kiss, their Sunny Sundays at the beach, the life they built together...all of it is gone.
It may be a miracle of science, but for Emery it’s her one shot at a second chance. And this time, she won’t waste it—because true love is always worth reviving.
352 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication July 14, 2026
41108 people want to read
About the author
Christina Lauren
92 books99.2k followersChristina Lauren is the combined pen name of long-time writing partners/best friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. The coauthor duo writes both Young Adult and Adult Fiction, and together has produced twenty New York Times bestselling novels. Their books have been translated into 30+ languages. (Some of these books have kissing. Some of these books have A LOT of kissing.)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Want to read
December 12, 2025☆彡13 dec, pre-release:
i am BEYOND excited for this one. saw it pop up on my insta feed seconds after waking up and NOW I’M WIDE AWAKE. 🤭🫶🏻
i am BEYOND excited for this one. saw it pop up on my insta feed seconds after waking up and NOW I’M WIDE AWAKE. 🤭🫶🏻
Want to read
December 12, 2025I NEED THIS SO BAD!! 😭😭😭
CHRISTINA (&) LAUREN are one of the main reasons I’m so obsessed with the romance genre - the Unhoneymooners was pretty much the start of this journey! 🏝
CHRISTINA (&) LAUREN are one of the main reasons I’m so obsessed with the romance genre - the Unhoneymooners was pretty much the start of this journey! 🏝
Want to read
December 13, 2025#NEED #THAT
Want to read
January 5, 2026A memory loss trope!? Yes
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I LOVE C.Lo, but this was a miss for me. It started strong, but ultimately fell flat. This was a very different book for them IMO, and while I was intrigued, the overall execution didn't work. This was not a swoony, flirty romance typical of C.Lo - the stakes were higher, and towards the end this felt a bit.... over the top in a whodunit popcorn thriller kind of way? The bulk of the story (i.e. them trying to fall back in love) happened too quickly and honestly didn't seem realistic given all the issues they had prior to his death. I realize he had amnesia but it felt like he forgave too quickly, and just as quickly, she all of a sudden wasn't an enormous workaholic anymore?! I wasn't giddy reading this, like I normally am when I'm watching 2 main characters fall in love. Cool concept and the science stuff was interesting to read about, but this was not just what I was expecting from them. Rounding up to 3 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
Thank you to Gallery Books and Net Galley for the advance copy!
This book has one of the wildest premises I’ve read in a long time and somehow Christina Lauren makes it feel totally believable. Our heroine is a super driven scientist working on top-secret projects… including a resurrection compound that’s only ever been tested on dogs. Then her husband dies right in front of her and she actually uses it on him. I sat up straight in bed because I couldn’t believe the chaos.
She’s got a great work bestie backing her up while she tries to save him, but the first 25% is pure for the characters. At this point I was like, who’s the villian? Am I being gaslighted? I immediately had a million theories and the rest of the book didn’t disappoint.
It has that emotional, nostalgic vibe of Love & Other Words but with a thriller twist. It’s romantic, suspenseful, and slightly unhinged. I could not put it down. I absolutely loved it.
This book has one of the wildest premises I’ve read in a long time and somehow Christina Lauren makes it feel totally believable. Our heroine is a super driven scientist working on top-secret projects… including a resurrection compound that’s only ever been tested on dogs. Then her husband dies right in front of her and she actually uses it on him. I sat up straight in bed because I couldn’t believe the chaos.
She’s got a great work bestie backing her up while she tries to save him, but the first 25% is pure for the characters. At this point I was like, who’s the villian? Am I being gaslighted? I immediately had a million theories and the rest of the book didn’t disappoint.
It has that emotional, nostalgic vibe of Love & Other Words but with a thriller twist. It’s romantic, suspenseful, and slightly unhinged. I could not put it down. I absolutely loved it.
Want to read
December 29, 2025Sounds totally dishy and delish 🌼🌼🌼
December 28, 2025
Emery and Luca’s love story has been a whirlwind from the start. Three years into their marriage, the passion is still going strong, but cracks are starting to show around Emery’s lack of work-life balance. Everything is coming to a head when Emery’s secret career literally saves Luca’s life. In the aftermath, they work to find a way back to each other. This is a unique take on a second-chance love story with hints of suspense and danger.
Thank you to Christina Lauren, Gallery Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book!
Thank you to Christina Lauren, Gallery Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book!
future-releases
December 12, 2025Another summery romance from our iconic duo - count me in!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Luca is Emery’s charming husband. They meet at a wedding, lock eyes, and never leave each other’s side. After a few years of marriage, things are strained: Luca and Emery still have their insane connection, but Emery’s job has taken over her entire life. It doesn’t help that she’s hiding something, something top-secret and life-changing, when Luca is hit by a car.
I mean, I had no idea we were going there. I still don’t quite know what I read. A mystery? An espionage thriller? A sci-fi-leaning romance? It’s definitely a different take on the HEA, but one told deftly, with Christina Lauren spice. I think this book will take people by surprise, but they’ll ultimately enjoy the main characters’ chemistry and the fast-paced nature of the plot. It’s definitely different. I did feel like there were a few (fairly obvious) plot holes with the science angle of it, and I’m not a scientist by any stretch, but if you can suspend disbelief enough to accept that you’re reading a genre-bending romance with some unlikely scenarios, you’ll be just fine.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title.
I mean, I had no idea we were going there. I still don’t quite know what I read. A mystery? An espionage thriller? A sci-fi-leaning romance? It’s definitely a different take on the HEA, but one told deftly, with Christina Lauren spice. I think this book will take people by surprise, but they’ll ultimately enjoy the main characters’ chemistry and the fast-paced nature of the plot. It’s definitely different. I did feel like there were a few (fairly obvious) plot holes with the science angle of it, and I’m not a scientist by any stretch, but if you can suspend disbelief enough to accept that you’re reading a genre-bending romance with some unlikely scenarios, you’ll be just fine.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Part mystery. Part sci fi. Part romance. All fun!
Emery works at a top-secret lab developing a compound that can resurrect someone after their death. So intensely focused on her career, she neglects Luca, her husband of three years. When he gets hit by a car (was it an accident or something more nefarious?), she uses the secret compound to keep him alive but at the cost of his memory.
Now she vows to change her workaholic ways for a second chance with him. Can he trust her after all her secrets are revealed? Can she overcome the guilt she feels for neglecting him the first time around? What happens when powerful people discover their use of this secret compound?
The sci fi elements and mystery/adventure component make this a unique spin on the second chance romance trope.
Much like the movie, The Vow, it was heartbreaking to witness Emery’s regret as she helps her husband recover his memory, fall in love with her all over again, and stay in love with her once he remembers his past.
Overall, a fun and entertaining story with the deeply emotional and sexually charged scenes that we’ve come to expect (and love) from this writing duo.
Emery works at a top-secret lab developing a compound that can resurrect someone after their death. So intensely focused on her career, she neglects Luca, her husband of three years. When he gets hit by a car (was it an accident or something more nefarious?), she uses the secret compound to keep him alive but at the cost of his memory.
Now she vows to change her workaholic ways for a second chance with him. Can he trust her after all her secrets are revealed? Can she overcome the guilt she feels for neglecting him the first time around? What happens when powerful people discover their use of this secret compound?
The sci fi elements and mystery/adventure component make this a unique spin on the second chance romance trope.
Much like the movie, The Vow, it was heartbreaking to witness Emery’s regret as she helps her husband recover his memory, fall in love with her all over again, and stay in love with her once he remembers his past.
Overall, a fun and entertaining story with the deeply emotional and sexually charged scenes that we’ve come to expect (and love) from this writing duo.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I went into this book excited to start my year with a cute romance, not realizing it would include sci-fi and mystery elements but I loved every minute of it. Christina Lauren took a completely different approach compared to their other books, and I fully support their decision to branch out.
The sci-fi aspect kept me turning the pages, eager to see what would happen next. I loved the deep connection between Emery and Luca despite Luca’s memory loss, and watching their relationship unfold again was emotional. The fresh twist on the second-chance trope felt surprising and fast paced. Betty, their nosy neighbor, was hands down my favorite side character and added so much charm and humor to the story. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a unique, plot driven story with a more subtle romance.
The sci-fi aspect kept me turning the pages, eager to see what would happen next. I loved the deep connection between Emery and Luca despite Luca’s memory loss, and watching their relationship unfold again was emotional. The fresh twist on the second-chance trope felt surprising and fast paced. Betty, their nosy neighbor, was hands down my favorite side character and added so much charm and humor to the story. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a unique, plot driven story with a more subtle romance.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As a HUGE Christina Lauren fan, it pains me to say The Romance Revival is my least favorite from them that I have read. Per usual, the writing was great! I love their upbeat, playful style that is always present.
The sci-fi aspect was NOT for me. If the novel was without this piece, it probably would be rated higher + more enjoyable. In addition to this, this couple is also my least favorite they have written. They just didn't do anything too special for me when they were together.
If you typically like Christina Lauren & love a good sci-fi twist, I am sure you would love this one!
Thank you Gallery Books & Christina Lauren for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Romance Revival is released on July 14, 2026!
The sci-fi aspect was NOT for me. If the novel was without this piece, it probably would be rated higher + more enjoyable. In addition to this, this couple is also my least favorite they have written. They just didn't do anything too special for me when they were together.
If you typically like Christina Lauren & love a good sci-fi twist, I am sure you would love this one!
Thank you Gallery Books & Christina Lauren for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Romance Revival is released on July 14, 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I went into The Romance Revival expecting the usual Christina Lauren mix of heart, heat, and emotional payoff—and that’s not quite what this book delivers. Emery and Luca are married, but their relationship is strained. Emery is a scientist who lives for her work and keeps big secrets, while Luca has quietly been pushed to the side more times than he deserves.
After Luca is hit by a car, Emery makes a choice she believes is the only way to save him. When Luca struggles with his memory afterward, Emery sees it as a chance to do things better this time and finally put their marriage first. That idea has potential, but the story leans heavily into science and mystery rather than romance.
As a longtime Christina Lauren fan, this one surprised me in a different way. The romance is quieter and the spice is lighter than usual, with more focus on science and big “what if” questions about love and choice. It didn’t hit all the emotional beats I typically look for from this duo, but it’s clearly a thoughtful and intentional shift in style.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for the opportunity to read The Romance Revival.
After Luca is hit by a car, Emery makes a choice she believes is the only way to save him. When Luca struggles with his memory afterward, Emery sees it as a chance to do things better this time and finally put their marriage first. That idea has potential, but the story leans heavily into science and mystery rather than romance.
As a longtime Christina Lauren fan, this one surprised me in a different way. The romance is quieter and the spice is lighter than usual, with more focus on science and big “what if” questions about love and choice. It didn’t hit all the emotional beats I typically look for from this duo, but it’s clearly a thoughtful and intentional shift in style.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for the opportunity to read The Romance Revival.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I went into this expecting a fun Christina Lauren romance and ended up with feelings. The premise hooked me immediately…marriage erased from memory after a tragic accident, but it’s the emotional execution that I really loved. Watching Emery fall in love with Luca all over again, while carrying the weight of everything he’s forgotten, was honestly heartbreaking. This book made me both tear up and smile. It made me hopeful, a little heartbroken, and grateful for ordinary love. If you love emotional romances with depth and humor add this to your TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of The Romance Revival by Christina Lauren through NetGalley, and the moment I got the notification, I squealed with delight. I knew I was about to be swept into another one of Christina Lauren’s undeniably delicious romance worlds.
Emery and Luca meet in Vegas and experience instant, head-over-heels love. It’s dreamy, hopeful, and intense. Fast forward three years, though, and the shine has dulled as we settle into the monotony of their everyday life. Emery is a workaholic with a mysterious job, logging long hours and barely making it home. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear she may not be telling Luca the whole truth about what she actually does. Luca, meanwhile, is completely enamored with Emery, even as the reader starts to wonder if he might deserve more than what he’s getting.
After a shocking accident, the layers begin to peel back. We learn more about Emery’s secretive work and what she’s been dedicating herself to, with Luca suddenly becoming the center of it all. From there, the story truly puts you through the emotional wringer as Luca recovers and is forced to fall in love with Emery all over again. It made me wish that what Emery is working on were real science, in the same way Christina Lauren’s The Soulmate Equation and The True Love Experiment blur the line between science and romance so compellingly.
I couldn’t put this book down, eagerly turning pages to see how it would all come together. The Romance Revival is another absolute delight from one of my favorite romance authors and a must-read for fans of emotional, high-concept love stories.
Tropes: Insta-love, secrets, miscommunication, amnesia, forced proximity
Emery and Luca meet in Vegas and experience instant, head-over-heels love. It’s dreamy, hopeful, and intense. Fast forward three years, though, and the shine has dulled as we settle into the monotony of their everyday life. Emery is a workaholic with a mysterious job, logging long hours and barely making it home. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear she may not be telling Luca the whole truth about what she actually does. Luca, meanwhile, is completely enamored with Emery, even as the reader starts to wonder if he might deserve more than what he’s getting.
After a shocking accident, the layers begin to peel back. We learn more about Emery’s secretive work and what she’s been dedicating herself to, with Luca suddenly becoming the center of it all. From there, the story truly puts you through the emotional wringer as Luca recovers and is forced to fall in love with Emery all over again. It made me wish that what Emery is working on were real science, in the same way Christina Lauren’s The Soulmate Equation and The True Love Experiment blur the line between science and romance so compellingly.
I couldn’t put this book down, eagerly turning pages to see how it would all come together. The Romance Revival is another absolute delight from one of my favorite romance authors and a must-read for fans of emotional, high-concept love stories.
Tropes: Insta-love, secrets, miscommunication, amnesia, forced proximity
Review of advance copy received from Author
Was lucky enough to get an advanced copy and yall, these girls have done it again. This is so inventive, funny, heartwarming, sweet and hopeful- the idea that you can do things again for the first time and do them right, but how important living for every day is. Swoony, steamy, sweet and sassy. Can’t recommend it enough.
January 19, 2026
Emery and Luca! Feel a little like I jumped into a classic Ali Hazelwood with our FMC’s job in STEM, but there were some wild turns that Christina Lauren did a great job navigating. A very cute little rom-com.
(I also would love to hear more about Betty, our snoopy elderly neighbor)
(I also would love to hear more about Betty, our snoopy elderly neighbor)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book had me STRESSING. But it was so cute and wistful and fun, it felt like watching a movie.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was not expecting this sweet romance with a sci-fi kick, but it surprised me in all the best ways. Christina Lauren never rests on their laurels, always bringing a great story.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Wow. This title was so tender, honest and very romantic. It’s a music of reveal, romance and mystery.
January 6, 2026
This book reminded me too much of The Vow by Nicholas Sparks except more scientific/fantasy. Also the ending doesn’t make sense and was really rushed.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Romance
The Romance Revival was a romance with a bit of sci-fi. This isn’t a typical Christina Lauren book, but honestly, that’s what made it so refreshing.
I loved seeing their take on what I’d call a romantic sci-fi, it had just the right balance of tension and romance, with moments of humor that kept things light. The characters were incredibly well written and easy to connect with, and by the end, I felt fully invested in their story.
I truly enjoyed this book, and it’s one I’d recommend to readers looking for something a little different from Christina Lauren while still getting that signature emotional pull.
🗓 Publishing July 14, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
#arcreview #christinalauren #romancereads #GalleryBooks #bookstagram #NetGalley
The Romance Revival was a romance with a bit of sci-fi. This isn’t a typical Christina Lauren book, but honestly, that’s what made it so refreshing.
I loved seeing their take on what I’d call a romantic sci-fi, it had just the right balance of tension and romance, with moments of humor that kept things light. The characters were incredibly well written and easy to connect with, and by the end, I felt fully invested in their story.
I truly enjoyed this book, and it’s one I’d recommend to readers looking for something a little different from Christina Lauren while still getting that signature emotional pull.
🗓 Publishing July 14, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
#arcreview #christinalauren #romancereads #GalleryBooks #bookstagram #NetGalley
January 11, 2026
Thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book.
3.5 stars
Well, this one certainly felt different. It wasn't bad but it didn't feel like the usual CLo vibe. You have to suspend disbelief for portions of the story and just go with it. A fun mystery with some romance involved but definitely not the normal charming and witty romance you'd get from this writing duo.
3.5 stars
Well, this one certainly felt different. It wasn't bad but it didn't feel like the usual CLo vibe. You have to suspend disbelief for portions of the story and just go with it. A fun mystery with some romance involved but definitely not the normal charming and witty romance you'd get from this writing duo.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews