Better than the Real Thing

by Brooke Crawford

Notting Hill meets Bridget Jones Baby in this whip-smart, funny, emotionally charged contemporary fiction about messy pasts, second chances and future families from a sparkling new voice.


Melbourne teacher Netta Phillips is staring down the barrel of her fortieth birthday with months' worth of negative pregnancy tests behind her, her relationship in the bin and a mortgage she can't afford. Things really aren't going to plan.

When she unexpectedly finds the childhood diary of notoriously private celebrity musician Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone, things get even messier. Mo's desperate to keep the diary's dark contents hidden from the tabloids and well away from his beloved younger brother, and he's willing to pay Netta handsomely to personally return it to him in London. The financial reward he offers would mean Netta could keep her apartment and try assisted conception treatments; after all, the clock's ticking. Loudly. But she can't go. After what happened there twenty years ago, she vowed never to return to the UK.

Not for anything.

When necessity bites, Netta reluctantly accepts Mo's offer and life quickly becomes even more complicated. There's paparazzi to contend with, a fake date that feels all too real and a Christmas Day confession that changes everything.

Amongst the chaos, Netta and Mo forge a rare connection, and discover that facing up to the past might be the only way to find the real thing. Or maybe something even better.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Fiction

368 pages, Paperback

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

Brooke Crawford is an emerging author of feel-good contemporary fiction, whose work has been recognised in writing competitions in Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Brooke won the Romance Writers of Australia's Opal Award in 2024, has post-graduate qualifications in professional writing from Deakin University, and studied novel writing under the guidance of Australian author Josephine Moon. Having previously worked in public relations, creative account management, advertising and education, she now runs a successful copywriting business from her home in Melbourne, where she lives with her partner and their three children. Better than the Real Thing is her first novel.

Reviews

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melbourne, Australia. Netta Phillips is a teacher, her fortieth birthday is approaching quickly, she desperately wants to have a baby and her current relationship is flat, and nothing seems to be going right.

London, England. Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone record company is putting pressure on him to write a new album, he can't stick his head out of a door without the paparazzi taking taking a photo, his life is splashed all over the tabloids and the last thing he needs is anymore bad publicity.

Netta finds his secret childhood diary under some floorboards, she’s reaches out to his manager, and Mo wants it back and offers to pay her to deliver it safely to London. This would solve Netta’s financial woes, with her biological clock’s alarm going off, she could afford assisted IVF and hopefully fulfill her dream of being a mother.

Netta’s bestie Freya convinces her to go and she arrives in the UK just before Christmas, she’s forgotten how much she loves the atmosphere, lights, markets and strolling the streets. Mo turns out to be very different to what she was expecting, he has to perform at Christmas Gala and he needs a date, a respectable plus one and Netta fits the brief.

I received a copy of Better than the Real Thing by Brooke Crawford from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review.

Who doesn’t like a story about a bad boy tattooed rock star, who loves his younger brother and helping disadvantage kids and he meets a lovely teacher who’s had a bad experience in the UK decades ago and kissed her fair share of toads, and gets to be Cinderella for a magical night.

Ms Crawford won the Romance Writers of Australia’s Opal Award in 2024, and I can understand why, I adored this book, it ticked all my boxes, full of great characters, I wanted to be friends with Netta, Freya, Rhona and Audrey, sing Christmas carols, ride in a limo and walk the red carpet. In my mind I'm thinking Mo's an Aussie version of Robbie Williams and he can entertain me anytime!!

Hilarious and witty, emotional and moving, have box of tissues ready and you will need them, I highly recommend and five stars from me.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Netta Phillips had just broken up with Pete, her partner of two years, after discovering he'd been unfaithful. She'd been trying to get pregnant for months - her fortieth birthday was looming, and now she had to return to her apartment, unsure on how she would pay the mortgage. Her school teacher's wages would barely stretch to cover everything. Before she'd left Pete's, she'd discovered an old diary which had been hidden under the floorboards. She was gobsmacked at who it belonged to, but she emailed someone who she hoped could help.

Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone was a celebrity musician, extremely well known and highly popular, who'd lived in Australia then moved to England with his younger brother. When Mo wanted Netta to return the diary in person, she said she'd post it. But before she knew it, she was on her way to London, a place she had never wanted to return to. When Netta met Mo they found an instant connection. But she wasn't going there; no way in the world. She would stay the few days over Christmas and return home, preparing for her return to the school after the summer holidays. But the best made plans...

Better than the Real Thing is the debut novel by Aussie author Brooke Crawford and it's outstanding! And a debut! Wow! Wonderful characters, a fabulous plot line, friendship - Freya and Netta's especially - and kind, caring people on both sides of the continent. I loved every minute of reading this book, and will definitely keep my eyes open for her next title. Congrats Ms Crawford, on an excellent debut! Highly recommended.

With thanks to HQ Fiction for my uncorrected proof ARC to read and review.

[Gloria (Ms. G's Bookshelf) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️5 Stars⭐️
⚠️Warning - Don’t let this one sit on your shelf unread!

An unforgettable, compulsively readable and engaging read, I loved it so much! Better than the Real Thing by Brooke Crawford is perfectly witty and adorable, beautifully written and a brilliant debut. I fell in love with Netta and Mo the main characters and also the supporting characters Freya and Rhona.

I was sensing ‘Love Actually’ vibes throughout (one of my favourite movies) although it’s nothing alike but it does has the Christmassy feels, a charismatic musician, heartbreak and romance.

Netta is almost forty, she’s a Melbourne school teacher and has just gone through a relationship split and is worried she’s never going to get pregnant after trying for months. Her eggs are dwindling away and she’s running out of time to become a mother, she also has a mortgage she can’t afford.

Just before her break up she discovers a secret diary under the floorboards in the house she’s living in and organises to return it to the notorious owner who llves in London and who’s willing to pay her to travel overseas to personally return it to him.

Mo is an inked, bad boy rock star, trying to resurrect his career and he’s always chased by the trash rags paparazzi.

When Mo and Netta connect up things get heated……

Congratulations to Brooke Crawford, what an impressive first book, definitely an author to watch out for! A must read for everyone and why not add to your Xmas reading it will put a smile on your dial.

Publication Date 25 November 2025
Publisher HQ Fiction

Thank you so much to Harlequin Australia for a a copy of this beautiful book.

[Veronica ⭐️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I immediately liked the main character Netta as she struggles with infertility and always thinking she’s not enough for the men she dated.

Better Than the Real Thing is filled with so many wonderful ‘real’ characters. People that supported each other and welcomed strangers as if they were old friends. I loved them all which made reading Netta and Mo’s story so rewarding.

Brooke Crawford includes moments of light-hearted banter, emotional confessions, true friendships and a touch of spice to deliver a story that is emotional and heart wrenching, witty and heartwarming.

If you love romance stories with all the ups and downs, and will they won’t they, that will keep you eagerly turning the pages Better Than the Real Thing should be on your must buy list.

Better Than the Real Thing delivers all the feels.

[Craig and Phil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big thanks to Harlequin and Brooke for gifting us a copy to read and review.
Brooke Crawford….. remember that name!
Because her debut book, Better Than The Real Thing is not only the real thing but the next big thing.
This novel is fresh, authentic, funny, mesmerising, delightful and totally obsessive.
Teacher Netta Phillips is about to turn forty.
With a mortgage she can’t pay, her relationship a catastrophe and an unsuccessful attempt at getting pregnant, things are going downhill for her.
When an old childhood diary of a celebrity is found under the floorboards, things begin to change for Netta.
After contacting Mo Maplestone, world famous singer through his manager, a suggestion of coming to the UK to deliver the diary in person is explored.
Netta is hesitant as she once lived there until a devastating incident took place when she was younger.
Mo is hoping the secret the diary contents stays hidden, he offers her money to personally deliver.
So off she goes and when they meet sparks ignite.
Netta is hoping not to be recognised and between the hustle and bustle of London Town and her feelings, can they overcome their past fears and discover the real thing……
I plowed through this book with gusto and pure pleasure.
Brooke has captured something special and new, its original, modern and unique.
I loved everything about this story, the delectable characters, the inviting plot, the real life scenarios and the setting between Melbourne (landmarks I recognised) and London.
This is released on 25th November so mark the calendar cause you don’t want to miss this spectacular new voice in contemporary fiction.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea what this novel would be like before I stepped into the world that surrounds Better Than The Real Thing by Brooke Crawford. But I am truly glad I read it for it has turned out to be quite a delightful surprise. Once I got into its groove, I could not stop reading and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters and seeing their developments. I was very sympathetic to Melbourne teacher, Netta Phillips, and rock star Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone. They each have some heavy issues to sort through but with wonderful support from each other and family, they rise to the top.

There are some serious topics addressed in this novel such as miscarriage, infertility, childhood trauma, sexual harassment, paparazzi hassling, negative limelight attention and the various pitfalls of fame. It covers many relationship break downs and stresses. But despite these mammoth challenges, the tone of the prose is not grim as there is a good mix of light and shade. And plenty of comic relief. Ultimately it is a beautiful love story. And Better Than The Real Thing shines with hope, second chances, fulfilled dreams and healing from sad memories. Psychological scars are addressed and realistic solutions offered. It is an extremely well delivered story with lots of humour and loving banter that buoy it amid the messy, stormy sessions. Being real is at the heart of this gem. Honesty can hurt but truth must be faced for fears to be conquered. Something both Netta and Mo realise.

Netta comes across as being strong and resilient. She has a maturity even at the start that later Mo must grow into. But one bad employer relationship experience when she was twenty, marked her heart and jarred her confidence. It affected her in ways that caused her to avoid certain locations and situations. But when she has a chance to meet her ‘fear’ head on, she does it with gusto and is able to overcome the hold it has had on her life for twenty years. I cheered to see this victory! Even though later she has another loss that is harder to come back from, with time and attention from others, she begins to heal.

Mo is a charismatic rock star in London (from Australia). He harbours a buried secret that comes to the surface when Netta discovers a journal that belonged to him as a child. It contains information he has kept hidden. He offers to send Netta first class from Australia to England to deliver his journal. Unexpected sparks erupt between them. He is drawn to her realness. Something he has not seen in the music realm. As Netta and Mo get closer, he is confronted by the painful memories in his journal. The guilt from the past throw him into a tailspin. Will he be able to sort through his emotions that are tied up in his mother’s death? Will encouragement and guidance from friends, and his feelings for Netta, help him pull through and receive the healing he needs? He must to stand a chance with her and to have their ‘cakes’ fully baked!

I could relate to a number of topics in this novel such as the expectations in the music industry and the trauma of miscarriage. The novel is so emotionally charged and real that it pulled me in completely. Beyond the messy painful encounters, there are some cloud nine extraordinary moments for the characters. The dialogue reflects perfectly the changes and contains some brilliant witty banter and honest heartfelt truths. There are words that hurt and some that heal. But there are also exciting adventures of flying first class, being dressed and made up by fashion greats for the red carpet, dining on fine foods, relaxing in posh accommodation, being whisked away in fancy limos— where Netta gets to have a taste of the rich and famous lifestyle. But most of all it is her chance at ‘real’ love with someone she connects with on a super deep level. All this happened because he wanted her to fly to England with his childhood journal that she miraculously found under the floorboards of her home. Who would ever think her life could take such a drastic turn: to come out of a poor relationship with her previous partner into one that defies all reason.

I loved every page and moment of this brilliant debut and highly recommend it. It is a wonderful story of hope, healing and second chances. This contemporary romance fiction glistens with originality and is the ‘Real Thing’ ! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot Damn, that was some kind of debut! I started it 3 days ago and smashed through it every second my demanding work schedule would allow.

This book is like a well stoked fire on a chilly London night, warming your heart and soul. Better Than the Real Thing tells the story of two people looking for happiness in all the wrong places and through a moment of chance find their lives unexpectedly intertwined.

What makes Brooke’s debut so strong;
Mo - tall, dark, brooding and covered in more body art than is considered medically safe for ovaries world wide.
Netta - the quintessential primary school teacher with a heart of gold and a relationship success rate equivalent to the Titanic’s maiden voyage.
Phenomenal side characters - Written to have true substance and give additional resonance to the story. My favourites were Audrey and Fletcher, Rhonda and her clan and of course Freya, Netta’s true soulmate.
Glorious settings - This story is a love letter to the streets of St Kilda and London alike. We want lounge on the sun-drenched couch in Netta’s apartment or see suit fittings in Mayfair. Crawford writes her settings like they are characters in their own right, vibrant and brimming with life.

This book made me laugh, it made me cry and sometimes it made me mad (in the best kind of way).

I personally can’t wait to read what Brooke writes next!

Thank you HQ Fiction and Brooke Crawford for allowing me the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better than the Real Thing is a lovely book to read. You begin with Netta who is a primary school teacher who lives with Pete who has children from a previous relationship. Netta is desperate to have a baby of her own as at the age of 40 her biological clock is ticking quickly. Pete doesn't seem so keen. One day when cleaning out the wardrobe she comes across a diary hidden under a floorboard and finds that it's a childhood diary written by a now famous rock star who is now an adult. It very clearly says do not read, which she doesn't. She has two choices either throw it out or contact said famous singer and see whether they want it back.
Then we have Mo (Morrison) who is struggling to keep up the pace of producing Grammy winning records as well as supporting a charity he started with his brother. He is also struggling with secrets of his childhood. When he hears about the diary he is desperate to get it back and offers Netta a lot of money to deliver it in person. She needs the money to pay her mortgage and give her a chance to have that long awaited baby.
I can't believe this was a debut novel by Australian author Brooke Crawford, the writing was excellent and I read this one in a couple of days. Great storyline, characters and pace. Perfect book to take away on holidays - real feel good fiction.
Thanks go to HQ Insiders for the copy of this book for review purposes. 5 well deserved stars!

[Naomi (aplace_inthesun) · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Australian primary school teacher Netta finds a diary nestled under the floorboards of her ex-partner’s house, she’s surprised it belongs to a world famous Australian rock star Morrison (Mo). Mo was 11 at the time the diary was written. When Mo requests Netta return the diary in person to him in London she baulks initially but a chain of events prompt her to throw caution to the wind and hop on a plane to Heathrow.

What follows is a busy, eye opening couple of weeks for Netta, with brushes with paparazzi, and all the glitz and glamour associated with close proximity to rock royalty.

This was a bit of a Cinderella story, though Netta is more an independent thinking woman. She’s grounded and future focused about what she wants, despite having been unlucky in love in the past. There’s a throw back to Netta’s distant past which provided a strange link to her here and now and discussion of Mo’s childhood from the time when he wrote the diary which pulls at the heartstrings.

Despite the glitz and glamour, BETTER THAN THE REAL THING is a book featuring mature adult characters with worldly experiences, acknowledgement of time and place, healing, loss, grief, and giving one another space. There’s a strong theme of friendship and loyalty, when times get tough or a bit crazy. It’s fun and quite bittersweet, despite the rock star bent.

Thanks to Harlequin Australia for sending me a copy as part of their influencer program.

4.5 ⭐️

[Kati Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

God, two really fantastic books in a row. Never want this bubble to burst. Honestly, this was GOOD. It’s bloody hard to make a “rockstar” romance not seem cheesy (the last one I read made me cringe more than once), not this one though! A debut novel from an Aussie author that deserves so much hype. Seriously impressive. Loved every page.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn’t my usual preferred genre, but I quite enjoyed it and read it very quickly.
The characters were interesting and the storyline easy to follow.

Netta has had a bad break up and going to England to return a diary to a celebrity isn’t the thing she wants to be doing right now! But the celebrity has offered to pay her for her time. What follows isn’t quite a cliche romance movie story…or is it?

Thanks to HQ for this advance reading copy (which was actually missing pages 5-8! )

[Beccabeccabooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Netta lives in Melbourne, works as a school teacher and is about to turn forty. She desperately wants a baby, but nothing has happened... just yet. Lately, she has felt the pressure impact her relationship with Pete, and she feels that she'll never be a mother at this rate.

Mo is music's bad boy, who's trying to resurrect his career. Even though he grew up in Australia, he has made London his home. The loss of his mother at a young age has left a deep emotional scar, one that Mo is incapable of talking about, especially to his younger brother, Mav.

One day, Netta finds Mo's childhood diary underneath the floorboards. Reaching out to his agent, Rhona, Netta finds herself dealing with a very lucrative offer. First class flights to London and an all-expenses holiday, just as long as she personally hands the unread diary to Mo.

Even though she is hesitant, Netta accepts and soon is immersed back to a time that she wishes she could forget. Still, meeting Mo has been a highlight and quickly become friends. Then comes another request- be Mo's date for the upcoming Christmas Eve gala. The money offered will allow Netta to finance her dreams.. but sometimes the best things come for free.

Better than the Real Thing is a wonderful contemporary romance that highlights some pretty hard-hitting issues, mainly suicide, infertility and miscarriage. It was an absolute joy to read.

Netta and Mo are superstar MCs, complemented extremely well by their respective besties, Freya and Rhona, who only want the best for the pair. If you ever need a cheer squad, these girls should be your first pick!

Christmas is brought to us via the winter wonderland that is Notting Hill. I absolutely felt the festive vibes amongst the vibrancy. Just wait until you meet Audrey and her little dog who are also hotel guests.

Such an amazing debut by Brooke Crawford! Keep an eye on this name, friends!

5 🌟

[Rina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melbourne teacher Netta Phillips is staring down the barrel of her fortieth birthday with months' worth of negative pregnancy tests, her relationship in the bin, and a mortgage she can't afford. Then she finds the childhood diary of notoriously private celebrity musician Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone, and he's willing to pay her handsomely to personally return it to him in London. The money he offers means Netta could keep her apartment and try assisted conception treatments; after all, the clock's ticking. But after what happened in the UK twenty years ago, Nessa had vowed never to return.

Ah, there were so many things done right in this book! The plot was layered, the life challenges were real, the romance was sizzling and Netta was an adorable character - she was likeable, realistic and not a damsel-in-distress. Plus the dual Melbourne x London setting.

I embraced the story wholeheartedly, as I loved that it featured celebrity-linked cinderella story for an older main character not in her twenties. Netta’s maturity showed in the practical ways she saw things and it made her three dimensional and ‘real’ to me. Her pregnancy struggles brought deeper tone to the rom-com aspect and grounded the story really well. My heart ached with her at many points in the book.

While I’m not usually a fan of insta-love, Netta and Mo’s chemistry didn’t feel like one even though they pretty much eyed each other as soon as they met. The dialogues and banters built their relationship well and I really enjoyed every minute of it.

This was a strong debut! I’m excited to read more from Brooke Crawford.

(Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a gifted review copy)

See my bookstagram review.

[Emma Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better than the real Thing by first time published author Brooke Crawford is bound to be a crowd pleaser, coming out in December it's the perfect summer read!
Netta Philips - Melbourne Australia, a teacher, another failed relationship, nearly 40 and still without the family she longs for.
When she finds the childhood diary of celebrity Mo Maplestone her life turns on its head, Mo now living in London is desperate for the diary to be returned, personally by Netta to avoid ut gettung in the wrong hands.
After much deliberation Netta takes up Mo's offer.
Sparks fly from the moment they meet, the paparazzi, a fake date and a secluded Christmas Day getaway push them closer together.
A really enjoyable book with likable characters, I especially loved Rhona!
The storyline was interesting and didn't shy away from some tough topics.
The ending was a bit different to how I thought it was going to end as well!
I look forward to reading more books from Brooke.
Thank you Harlequin for the copy to read and review.

[Ellen (the_plentiful_library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

♡ A dash of hot celebrity
♡ A drop of cute 'regular, everyday' girl
♡ A splash of forgotten childhood diary
♡ And a dollop of paid partnership

Mix it all together and and you've got the perfect recipe for a sweet little rom-com!

Almost 40 year old Netta finds the forgotten childhood diary of the very famous Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone hiding under the floorboards of her house. Now the woman is a Saint because she doesn't even read it (I would have had that bad boy binged in one sitting!) She contacts Mo who offers to pay her to return it to him in London. Netta is saving up to undergo IVF so it's an offer she can't refuse.

There was so much to love in this story from the distinctly Australian terms/language, to the lovable side characters of Rhona, Audrey and Freya and the more serious topics that just add an extra layer of depth to the characters and story.

There's a few heavier issues dealt with in the book so best to check the trigger warnings but if you want a dose of the feel goods with a surprising Christmas theme then this one is for you!

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooke Crawford’s debut novel Better Than the Real Thing was an absolute gem that I could not put down. It was a feel-good, yet emotional read and I found it incredibly honest and relatable.

Netta Phillips is nearing her fortieth birthday and desperate to be a mother. With a slew of negative pregnancy tests, her relationship over and a mortgage she can’t afford, her plans are out the window. With the surprising discovery of a notorious musician’s childhood diary under her floorboards, things get even messier. Morrison ‘Mo’ Maplestone will do just about anything to keep the diary’s contents out of the tabloids and offers to pay Netta to personally return it to him in London. The money would mean she could keep her apartment and try assisted conception treatments, but she cannot bring herself to return to the UK after what happened there twenty years ago.

I absolutely adored both Netta and Mo. They faced real world problems with maturity and made believable choices along the way. The story was full of depth and there were some incredibly heartbreaking scenes. However, the sadness and grief were balanced out by the wonderfully warm relationships between Netta and her bestie Freya, the motherly Rhona and the wise and witty Audrey.

I also loved the London setting which brought back fantastic memories of my own years in the city. The story highlighted the shallowness of show business and the way the media reports on celebrities too.

The obvious chemistry between Mo and Netta was wonderful to read. It was both romantic and honest and so refreshing to read about characters of a similar age to me navigating life challenges in a relationship.

Better Than the Real Thing was absolutely the real thing. It was complex and emotional and an absolute joy to read. I really did not want to say goodbye to these characters and could gladly have continued reading about their story well past the last page.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Harlequin Australia for my early review copy of Brooke Crawford’s debut novel Better than the Real Thing. I really enjoyed this and would recommend it for those who enjoy contemporary fiction and romance.

Netta finds a diary under the floorboards of her house which turns out to belong to a famous Aussie rock star who now lives in London. He’s keen to reclaim his childhood diary and keep his secrets out of the hands of the press so offers to fly Netta to London to hand deliver it. When things start going wrong for Netta she takes Mo Morrison up on his offer as a means of earning some money and getting away. The two soon develop chemistry and open up to each other about their darkest secrets. This doesn’t work out so well for either of them and they must separate if they have a chance to work through their past trauma and achieve their dreams.

Fans of Emily Henry will love this. I’m looking forward to seeing what is next for Brooke Crawford. A fabulous debut!

[what.karli.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5

𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚎𝚗𝚓𝚘𝚢𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚍𝚎𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚕 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝙱𝚛𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚊 𝚛𝚘𝚖-𝚌𝚘𝚖 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚎𝚡𝚢, 𝚏𝚕𝚒𝚛𝚝𝚢, 𝚏𝚞𝚗, 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚢, 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚊 𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚗𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚍𝚎𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝!

𝙰𝚕𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑 𝚜𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚙𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚍𝚒𝚍𝚗’𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝟷𝟶𝟶 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚗; 𝚒𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚜𝚘 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚌𝚑𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚗 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚍𝚎𝚎𝚙𝚕𝚢 𝚛𝚊𝚠 𝚎𝚖𝚘𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚕 𝚝𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚑 𝚙𝚞𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚜𝚝𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 - 𝚒𝚝'𝚜 𝚍𝚎𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚝𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚑 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚞𝚙!

[Juanita Beck · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an outstanding debut novel by Brooke Crawford. Better Than The Real Thing is pure escapism and the perfect summer read, although it would be just as enjoyable cuddled up on the couch in winter! I had the absolute pleasure of reading an ARC of this book thanks to Harlequinaus and I highly recommend it.

[Leanne Lovegrove · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible debut, a fantastic story

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC received thanks to Harlequin and Brooke. Better Than The Real Thing is Brooke's wonderful debut novel and was the book I didn't know I needed to read in 2025. Hooked from the beginning, it had all the things! Drama, romance, love, loss, friendship, while being relative, validating, and somewhat triggering. Brooke navigates the plot perfectly, with solid characters and storyline. This is THE perfect summer/holiday read. I am definitely keeping my eye out for more Brooke Crawford.

[Celina Marscham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thankyou to HQ Insiders Harlequin Australia for an advanced copy of this book.
Better Than The Real Thing by Brooke Crawford is a romantic contemporary read full of late life romance,IVF,fertility,grief,financial insecurity and taking control of life.
Netta an aussie teacher finds a hidden diary from a now famous celebrity in her house and goes to great lengths to return it.After a failed romance Netta jets off to London to return the diary only to relive a tramatic past from 20 years ago along the way she finds great friends and learns alot about herself.
A great read full of emotions and I loved hearing about London and Melbourne and felt like I was there,the scenes are bang on and makes me want to go back.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book ..... it turned up Friday and come Saturday, it was finished! I just couldn't put it down. Netta and Mo are two characters genuinely broken by their pasts, brought together in a turn of events that makes you believe that love conquers all. There is joy, and sadness, and even a few tears (that was me .... the tears were mine 😂) and beautiful examples of friendship at all costs. My favourite character is Rhona, who is awesomely weird and wacky but who proves her loyalty over and over again.

[Liat M · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a beautifully written debut novel. Told through alternative points of view, we see the characters lives across Melbourne and London so it was very fitting that I read this one on my latest visit to London!

I loved the way that Brooke described Netta’s feelings of the two places and how hard it is sometimes to have your heart split between them.

The emotions and relationships between the characters was so nicely written and i liked that there was focus on friendships for each of the characters as well as the romance that develops.

Thank you to Harlequin for my copy of this book. I really enjoyed reading it

[Shelley Amar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I flew through Better Than The Real Thing by Brooke Crawford. She first popped up on my radar through one of my son’s teachers, who mentioned she used to work at our school and knew I was a big reader. I preordered it, then realised I could also request it on NetGalley, so I did, and got approved.
The book itself was exactly the kind of read I wanted for the weekend: romantic without the cheesiness, light but not shallow, and written with substance to keep me properly invested. As someone who lives in St Kilda, I got a kick out of recognising the streets and parks in the story, there’s something so satisfying about reading a book set in places you know.
It’s a romance with solid friendships, a capable and mature female lead, and writing keeps you turning the page well past your bedtime. I genuinely had a great time with it.
Thanks to Net Galley and Harlequin Australia for the chance to read and review this early!

[Amanda Cruickshanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an uncorrected proof copy of this book to read from the Publishers and honestly, this is such a good read that it is destined to be a best seller.

From the first page to the last, the storyline totally captures your attention in that you don't want to stop reading. I find when I read books that I become part of the book as I can visualise what the characters all look like and can imagine the scenes of places they go to, which start in the state of Melbourne.

The character of Netta Phillips starts off first and it's not hard to absolutely love her. She is in a relationship with Pete, and her one desire is to have a baby as she is nearing her 40th birthday. She had me giggling of her descriptions of things that were happening.

The cover is totally different, but I love it because once you read the book, you can sense why the cover is what it is. It's striking.

As in relationships, there are things that happen beyond our control and in this storyline, Netta finds a diary that says please do not read. She tracks down the owner of the diary who is Morrison Mapleton or Mo for short, and he is a celebrity musical in London. The diary holds secrets of his past that he wouldn't want anyone to find out, especially is younger brother who is protects.

With the offer of all expenses paid to travel to London and also payment for the return of the diary came at the right time for Netta to accept.

Along the course of reading, we will fall in love with Netta's best friend Freya and her family, an elderly lady called Audrey who lives in London and so many others.

The storyline is captivating as it has friendships, secrets, heartaches, second chances and romance and of course a few twists and turns along the way.

I found the storyline also compelling and emotional at times. There is a part whereby a miscarriage is mentioned, and it brought me to tears as my first pregnancy ended that way and the emotions I felt back then were there in reading.

Both Netta and Mo have past secrets from each other, and they need to get past them as a romance is certainly brewing for them both. Absolutely loved the banter that Netta and Mo had between them, had me giggling a few times there.

This is Brooke's debut book, and I would say if you enjoy an engaging storyline, you won't be disappointed in this book. This storyline is absolutely fantabulous. One that I will treasure for a long time.

[Malvina · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a terrific book this is to read, especially if you're in the mood for a broody rock star hero (Mo), and a schoolteacher heroine (Netta) with her biological clock ticking.

Netta discovers a secret diary under a loose floorboard in her house; the childhood diary of rock star Mo Morrison, now living in London. Netta has integrity and doesn't want to violate the privacy of the young Mo. She knows what it's like to have her privacy violated, and hates it. So she doesn't read the diary but gets in touch with Mo's agent to ask if Mo would like it returned.

Mo would, thankyou, but the thought makes him feel sick and panicked. The diary has an entry that kicked off the worst time of his childhood. It's left him with a guilt he can't get past, a worthless feeling that dogs him relentlessly despite all his fame and fortune.

Mo and his agent Rhona fly a very nervous Netta to London. Not only is she starstruck at the thought of meeting Mo, she's also extremely anxious about an old scandal she fled from twenty years ago. If any of the London paparazzi get wind of it she doesn't think she'll survive emotionally - and being seen with Mo could possibly open that can of worms again.

The fact she's just broken up with her loser boyfriend is also a bit complicated. She truly wants a baby, and the money Mo's offered her to return the diary means she's going to be able to hold onto her little Melbourne flat and maybe pay for something like IVF before it's too late. So, juggling fear of exposure with all of the above is a tricky thing.

Watching Mo and Netta meet was fabulous. They each have huge emotional baggage. But suddenly, against all odds, they fall for each other. The outfall is complicated and very messy, but watching them work through all their stuff is great (even if it does take some time). (And there might be music involved.)

This is a funny, emotional, impressive rom-com(ish) debut from Brooke Crawford, which has a warmth and genuine-ness to it that makes you cheer for this mismatched duo - who maybe aren't so mis-matched after all. Plus everyone needs a best friend like Freya and an agent like Rhona: girls, you are the best. The settings in Melbourne and London are also gorgeous, especially London at Christmas. Everything to enjoy.

Thanks so much to HQ Fiction for the review copy, I loved this book.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a nutshell - A school teacher and a rockstar world's collide when brought together by a childhood diary found hidden beneath closet floorboards in a suburban Melbourne home.
School teacher, Netta, is on the cusp of turning 40 and her baby clock is ticking - loudly. Months of trying with disappointing result are breaking her heart.
By chance she discovers a diary beneath the floorboards in the closet of the room destined to be the nursery of her 'one day' baby. She opens it, only to discover the name insde is of world reknowned muscian/rockstar Morrison 'Mo' Maplestone, who now resides in London. Sharing this discovery with her best friend Freya, they come to the conclusion that it should be returned to him. She sends an email stating what she has found and that she wants to mail it back to Mo.
Meanwhile - her so-called 'rock' of a partner, Pete, turns out to be a pebble, after having his textfest with a female co-worker discovered, as well as learning that he, in fact, does not want to have a baby. Needless to say the relationship ends up in the toilet.
Netta decides that to make her motherhood dream a reality, she will go it alone. But how she is going to do so financially is another thing.
The answer lies with Mo's diary, he wants her to personally return the diary to him in London. He will pay all the expenses, as well as paying her for its return.
But Netta does not want to fly to London, a scandal twenty years earlier saw her depart London in haste, amidst flashing bulbs of paparazzi cameras. The shame and embarrassment, have her panicking. Will she be noticed after all this time? The baby clock ticks a little louder, and she knows what she has to do.
She boards the plane and jets off to London ...

This kind of book just makes you want to escape from the real world and read all day. I was engaged all the way through, and I enjoyed how the story moved between Netta and Mo. It gave more insight into their thoughts and feelings, as well as getting to know their inner circle people. The description of Christmas in London sounds just magical, and festive! Lots of feelings felt throughout this book. A few laugh outloud moments, warm fuzzies and some tears as well. Wonderfully written!

I truly look forward to reading more from Brooke Crawford :)

Thank you to HQ Insiders for this ARC in return for my honest review.

[Mara (readwithmaramiloandmaple) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The blurb and the title immediately won me over (U2 fan here 👋). Then came the tattooed rock star, who has houseplants and is a former barista. Mo has all kinds of dream guy qualities. I got definite Michael Hutchence–Robbie Williams hybrid vibes, that mix of charisma, vulnerability, and cheeky charm just jumped off the page.

I adored that both main characters are in their late 30s/early 40s. It’s refreshing to see mature protagonists with life experience and emotional baggage, rather than the usual twenty-something leads. As a Gen X reader, I found so many little Easter eggs to connect with.

Both Netta and Mo carry trauma and avoid facing it — until they don’t. Their chemistry is tender and believable, and the emotional payoff feels earned.

I also loved:

sassy, wise banter from BFF Freya
delightful cameo of octogenarian, Audrey
stuck zipper scene (always a winner)
delicious slow burn
escaping into the glamour of Mo’s world

Themes & Tone

A story of complex trauma, infertility, grief, and the hope that love and healing can still find you in your forties. Despite the heavier themes, it sparkles with humour, warmth and Christmas spirit

Favourite lines

“His unholy sex appeal, because who doesn’t love a mysterious, tattooed singer who’s also a devoted big brother and writes lyrics that simultaneously tear your heart out and rip your knickers off?”

“…was potent, and a guaranteed entrée to a stonking great main course of regret.”

“Relationships are never right until you get the one that is. Otherwise, we’d all be with the spotty little hornbags we pashed in high school.”

In summary

Better Than the Real Thing is an evocative, witty and heartfelt debut perfect for readers who love their romcom with a bit more emotional depth, relatable protagonists and a dash of festive charm.

Would make a perfect beach read or stocking filler (Secret Santa alert!).

Also, fun fact: the author received writing advice from Amanda Ashby (The Widow’s Guide to Murder), which totally tracks cos I loved that book too.

Thank you to HQ Fiction and Brooke Crawford for the opportunity to read this early. 4.5 stars

This is due out Nov 25, go ahead and pop it on your wish list!

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than the real thing introduces us to Netta, a school teacher who is desperate to have a baby as her fortieth birthday approaches. Her partner Pete isn’t as focused or interested in the idea of a new baby, already having two children from a previous marriage. Just as their relationship is breaking apart Netta finds an old diary under the floorboards belonging to rockstar Morrison Maplestone. Netta’s integrity is shown as she doesn’t read any of the diary past the page with the name of the owner and contacts his manager with an offer to post it to him in London.
Mo is a broody, tattooed rockstar under pressure from his record label and hounded by the press due to his perceived bad boy ways. Establishing a charity and supporting his younger brother , Mo wants the secrets of his preteen diary to stay hidden, so he offers Netta a large amount of money to fly to London and deliver the diary to him. At first Netta is apprehensive to return to London after what happened in her past, twenty years ago, but she quickly realises the money will help with her mortgage and her dreams of becoming a mother and is on a plane to meet Mo and deliver the diary.
I love how real the characters felt in this novel, even the supporting characters had depth and charm, especially Mo’s manager Rhona who is more his best friend than manager. This story comes packed with fun banter, emotional confessions and true meaningful friendships, while managing to avoid the typical cliche romance plot devices. I was glad that as I read this book and thought I knew what will happen with the characters in that moment -a predictable cliche moment from any rom-com, the author turned away from that choice, making the characters more relatable and the storyline more enjoyable. This book is well written with good pacing and strong characters, I was surprised to learn it is her debut novel, I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more from this author.
I received an uncorrected proof copy of this book from HQ Australia in exchange for my honest review.